bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Statistical Analysis of Duration and Frequency Chirping Rate of Falling Tone Chorus
Authors: Xie Yi , Teng Shangchun , Wu Yifan , Tao Xin
Published: September 2021

The duration (τ) and chirping rate (Γ) of whistler mode chorus waves are two of the most important properties to understand chorus generation mechanism and to quantify effects of nonlinear wave particle interactions on radiation belt electron acceleration. In this study, we perform the first statistical analysis of the duration and chirping rate of falling tone chorus elements using Van Allen Probes data. We found that τ increases and Γ decreases with increasing L‐shell, although the dependence is weak. The duration from dawnside and dayside have similar distributions, which is a bit longer than those from duskside and nightside. However, Γ has little dependence on MLT. The relation between τ and Γ shows that τ scales with Γ as , supporting one of the previous theoretical models of rising tone chorus in Teng et al. (2017). Our results should provide important insights to deepen our understanding of falling tone chorus excitation.
Electron Heat Flux in the Solar Wind: Generalized Approaches to Fluid Transport With a Variety of Skewed Velocity Distributions
Authors: Cranmer Steven R. , Schiff Avery J.
Published: September 2021

In the solar corona and solar wind, electron heat conduction is an important process that transports energy over large distances and helps determine the spatial variation of temperature. High‐density regions undergoing rapid particle‐particle collisions exhibit a heat flux described well by classical Spitzer‐Härm theory. However, much of the heliosphere is closer to a more collisionless state, and there is no standard description of heat conduction for fluid‐based (e.g., magnetohydrodynamic) models that applies generally. Some proposed models rely on electron velocity distributions that exhibit negative values of the phase‐space density. In this study, we explore how positive‐definite velocity distributions can be used in fluid‐based conservation equations for the electron heat flux along magnetic‐field lines in the corona and solar wind. We study both analytic forms of skewed distributions (e.g., skew‐normal distributions, two‐sided bi‐Maxwellians, and constant‐collision‐time electrostatic solutions) and empirical fits to measurements of core, halo, and strahl electrons in interplanetary space. We also present example solutions to a generalized conservation equation for the heat flux in the solar wind, with some limiting cases found to resemble known free‐streaming approximations. The resulting values of the electron heat flux vary as a function of radial distance and Knudsen number in ways that resemble observed data. We note that this model does not include the effects of kinetic instabilities (which may impose saturation limits when active), so for now its regime of applicability is limited to collisionless heat‐flux evolution away from the known instability boundaries in parameter space.
Evaluation and Assimilation of the COSMIC‐2 Radio Occultation Constellation Observed Atmospheric Refractivity in the WRF Data Assimilation System
Authors: Singh Randhir , Ojha Satya P. , Anthes Richard , Hunt Douglas
Published: September 2021

This paper evaluates atmospheric refractivity observations from the COSMIC‐2 (C2) radio occultation (RO) mission by comparing them with radiosonde (RS) observations, the European Center for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) ERA5 reanalysis, and the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) Global Forecast System (GFS) analysis for the period October 2019 to December 2020. C2 refractivity is overall in good agreement with the RS observations as well as the GFS and ERA5 analyses. The mean and standard deviations of the differences between C2 and RS, ERA5, and GFS refractivity are within ±0.3% and less than 2% respectively, with slightly higher differences (both systematic and random), in the lower levels of the troposphere.
Gaussian process analysis of electron energy loss spectroscopy data: multivariate reconstruction and kernel control
Authors: Kalinin Sergei V. , Lupini Andrew R. , Vasudevan Rama K. , Ziatdinov Maxim
Published: September 2021

Advances in hyperspectral imaging including electron energy loss spectroscopy bring forth the challenges of exploratory and physics-based analysis of multidimensional data sets. The multivariate linear unmixing methods generally explore similarities in the energy dimension, but ignore correlations in the spatial domain. At the same time, Gaussian process (GP) explicitly incorporate spatial correlations in the form of kernel functions but is computationally intensive. Here, we implement a GP method operating on the full spatial domain and reduced representations in the energy domain. In this multivariate GP, the information between the components is shared via a common spatial kernel structure, while allowing for variability in the relative noise magnitude or image morphology. We explore the role of kernel constraints on the quality of the reconstruction, and suggest an approach for estimating them from the experimental data. We further show that spatial information contained in higher-order components can be reconstructed and spatially localized.
Contribution of rare variant associations to neurodegenerative disease presentation
Authors: Dilliott Allison A. , Abdelhady Abdalla , Sunderland Kelly M. , Farhan Sali M. K. , Abrahao Agessandro , Binns Malcolm A. , Black Sandra E. , Borrie Michael , Casaubon Leanne K. , Dowlatshahi Dar , Finger Elizabeth , Fischer Corinne E. , Frank Andrew , Freedman Morris , Grimes David , Hassan Ayman , Jog Mandar , Kumar Sanjeev , Kwan Donna , Lang Anthony E. , Mandzia Jennifer , Masellis Mario , McIntyre Adam D. , Pasternak Stephen H. , Pollock Bruce G. , Rajji Tarek K. , Rogaeva Ekaterina , Sahlas Demetrios J. , Saposnik Gustavo , Sato Christine , Seitz Dallas , Shoesmith Christen , Steeves Thomas D. L. , Swartz Richard H. , Tan Brian , Tang-Wai David F. , Tartaglia Maria C. , Turnbull John , Zinman Lorne ,   ONDRI Investigators, Hegele Robert A.
Published: September 2021

Genetic factors contribute to neurodegenerative diseases, with high heritability estimates across diagnoses; however, a large portion of the genetic influence remains poorly understood. Many previous studies have attempted to fill the gaps by performing linkage analyses and association studies in individual disease cohorts, but have failed to consider the clinical and pathological overlap observed across neurodegenerative diseases and the potential for genetic overlap between the phenotypes. Here, we leveraged rare variant association analyses (RVAAs) to elucidate the genetic overlap among multiple neurodegenerative diagnoses, including Alzheimer’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, frontotemporal dementia (FTD), mild cognitive impairment, and Parkinson’s disease (PD), as well as cerebrovascular disease, using the data generated with a custom-designed neurodegenerative disease gene panel in the Ontario Neurodegenerative Disease Research Initiative (ONDRI). As expected, only ~3% of ONDRI participants harboured a monogenic variant likely driving their disease presentation. Yet, when genes were binned based on previous disease associations, we observed an enrichment of putative loss of function variants in PD genes across all ONDRI cohorts. Further, individual gene-based RVAA identified significant enrichment of rare, nonsynonymous variants in PARK2 in the FTD cohort, and in NOTCH3 in the PD cohort. The results indicate that there may be greater heterogeneity in the genetic factors contributing to neurodegeneration than previously appreciated. Although the mechanisms by which these genes contribute to disease presentation must be further explored, we hypothesize they may be a result of rare variants of moderate phenotypic effect contributing to overlapping pathology and clinical features observed across neurodegenerative diagnoses.
Behavioral gender differences are reinforced during the COVID-19 crisis
Authors: Reisch Tobias , Heiler Georg , Hurt Jan , Klimek Peter , Hanbury Allan , Thurner Stefan
Published: September 2021

Behavioral gender differences have been found for a wide range of human activities including the way people communicate, move, provision themselves, or organize leisure activities. Using mobile phone data from 1.2 million devices in Austria (15% of the population) across the first phase of the COVID-19 crisis, we quantify gender-specific patterns of communication intensity, mobility, and circadian rhythms. We show the resilience of behavioral patterns with respect to the shock imposed by a strict nation-wide lock-down that Austria experienced in the beginning of the crisis with severe implications on public and private life. We find drastic differences in gender-specific responses during the different phases of the pandemic. After the lock-down gender differences in mobility and communication patterns increased massively, while circadian rhythms tended to synchronize. In particular, women had fewer but longer phone calls than men during the lock-down. Mobility declined massively for both genders, however, women tended to restrict their movement stronger than men. Women showed a stronger tendency to avoid shopping centers and more men frequented recreational areas. After the lock-down, males returned back to normal quicker than women; young age-cohorts return much quicker. Differences are driven by the young and adolescent population. An age stratification highlights the role of retirement on behavioral differences. We find that the length of a day of men and women is reduced by 1 h. We interpret and discuss these findings as signals for underlying social, biological and psychological gender differences when coping with crisis and taking risks.
Association between early ventricular arrhythmias and mortality in destination vs. bridge patients on continuous flow LVAD support
Authors: Jedeon Zeina , Cogswell Rebecca , Schultz Jessica , Von Wald Lisa , John Ranjit , Roukoz Henri
Published: September 2021

The association between ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) and mortality in patients supported by continuous flow left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) remains controversial. To evaluate the association between pre-implantation, early (≤ 30 day) post-implantation VAs and mortality in bridge to transplant (BTT) and destination therapy (DT) LVAD patients, separately. The risk factors for post LVAD VAs were also investigated. In this observational cohort study, we included 341 patients who received a first time, continuous flow LVAD between January 1st 2010 and July 30th 2018. We used Kaplan–Meier curves and multivariable cox regression analyses to study the association between VAs and mortality in the BTT and DT populations. The mean age of the cohort was 58 ± 14 years, with 82% males, 53% had ischemic cardiomyopathy, and 45% were DT. The mean follow-up was 2.2 ± 2.1 years. In both BTT and DT cohorts, pre LVAD VAs were not associated with mortality after LVAD implantation (log-rank p = 0.95 and p = 0.089, respectively). In the BTT population, early post-LVAD VAs were not statistically associated with increased mortality (log rank p = 0.072). In the DT patients, early post LVAD VAs were associated with a 67% increase in the hazards rate of mortality on LVAD support (HR 1.67 [1.05–2.65], p = 0.029). The final model was adjusted for type of cardiomyopathy, INTERMACS profile, glomerular filtration rate, post LVAD atrial fibrillation, age and cerebrovascular events. Early post-LVAD VA is common after LVAD implantation and is an independent predictor of mortality in the DT LVAD population.
CHRONO and DEC1/DEC2 compensate for lack of CRY1/CRY2 in expression of coherent circadian rhythm but not in generation of circadian oscillation in the neonatal mouse SCN
Authors: Ono Daisuke , Honma Ken-ichi , Schmal Christoph , Takumi Toru , Kawamoto Takeshi , Fujimoto Katsumi , Kato Yukio , Honma Sato
Published: September 2021

Clock genes Cry1 and Cry2, inhibitory components of core molecular feedback loop, are regarded as critical molecules for the circadian rhythm generation in mammals. A double knockout of Cry1 and Cry2 abolishes the circadian behavioral rhythm in adult mice under constant darkness. However, robust circadian rhythms in PER2::LUC expression are detected in the cultured suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of Cry1/Cry2 deficient neonatal mice and restored in adult SCN by co-culture with wild-type neonatal SCN. These findings led us to postulate the compensatory molecule(s) for Cry1/Cry2 deficiency in circadian rhythm generation. We examined the roles of Chrono and Dec1/Dec2 proteins, the suppressors of Per(s) transcription similar to CRY(s). Unexpectedly, knockout of Chrono or Dec1/Dec2 in the Cry1/Cry2 deficient mice did not abolish but decoupled the coherent circadian rhythm into three different periodicities or significantly shortened the circadian period in neonatal SCN. DNA microarray analysis for the SCN of Cry1/Cry2 deficient mice revealed substantial increases in Per(s), Chrono and Dec(s) expression, indicating disinhibition of the transactivation by BMAL1/CLOCK. Here, we conclude that Chrono and Dec1/Dec2 do not compensate for absence of CRY1/CRY2 in the circadian rhythm generation but contribute to the coherent circadian rhythm expression in the neonatal mouse SCN most likely through integration of cellular circadian rhythms.
Immunomodulatory effects of thalidomide in an experimental brain death liver donor model
Authors: Santana Alexandre Chagas , Andraus Wellington , Silva Filipe Miranda Oliveira , Dellê Humberto , Pepineli Rafael , de Moraes Edvaldo Leal , Scavone Cristoforo , de Sá Lima Larissa , Degaspari Sabrina , Brasil Sergio , Solla Davi Jorge Fontoura , Ruiz Liliane Moreira , de Oliveira-Braga Karina Andrighetti , Nepomuceno Natalia Aparecida , Pêgo-Fernandes Paulo Manuel , Tullius Stefan Gunther , Figueiredo Eberval Gadelha
Published: September 2021

Brain death is characterized by a generalized inflammatory response that results in multiorgan damage. This process is mainly mediated through cytokines, which amplify graft immunogenicity. We investigated the immunological response in a brain death liver donor model and analysed the effects of thalidomide, a drug with powerful immunomodulatory properties. Brain death was induced in male Lewis rats. We studied three groups: Control (sham-operated rats in which trepanation was performed without inserting the balloon catheter), BD (rats subjected to brain death by increasing intracranial pressure) and BD + Thalid (BD rats receiving thalidomide after brain death). After 6 h, serum levels of AST, ALT, LDH, and ALP as well as systemic and hepatic levels of TNF-α, IL1-β, IL-6, and IL-10 were analysed. We also determined the mRNA expression of MHC Class I and Class II, NF-κB, and macrophage infiltration. NF-κB was also examined by electrophoretic mobility shift assay. Thalidomide treatment significantly reduced serum levels of hepatic enzymes and TNF-α, IL-1-β, and IL-6. These cytokines were evaluated at either the mRNA expression or protein level in liver tissue. In addition, thalidomide administration resulted in a significant reduction in macrophages, MHC Class I and Class II, and NF-κB activation. This study reveals that thalidomide significantly inhibited the immunologic response and graft immunogenicity, possibly through suppression of NF-κB activation.
A nested case–control study of risk for pulmonary embolism in the general trauma population using nationwide trauma registry data in Japan
Authors: Iriyama Hiroki , Komori Akira , Kainoh Takako , Kondo Yutaka , Naito Toshio , Abe Toshikazu
Published: September 2021

Post-trauma patients are at great risk of pulmonary embolism (PE), however, data assessing specific risk factors for post-traumatic PE are scarce. This was a nested case–control study using the Japan Trauma Data Bank between 2004 and 2017. We enrolled patients aged ≥ 16 years, Injury Severity Score ≥ 9, and length of hospital stay ≥ 2 days, with PE and without PE, using propensity score matching. We conducted logistic regression analyses to examine risk factors for PE. We included 719 patients with PE and 3595 patients without PE. Of these patients, 1864 [43.2%] were male, and their median Interquartile Range (IQR) age was 73 [55–84] years. The major mechanism of injury was blunt (4282 [99.3%]). Median [IQR] Injury Severity Score (ISS) was 10 [9–18]. In the multivariate analysis, the variables spinal injury [odds ratio (OR), 1.40 (1.03–1.89)]; long bone open fracture in upper extremity and lower extremity [OR, 1.51 (1.06–2.15) and OR, 3.69 (2.89–4.71), respectively]; central vein catheter [OR, 2.17 (1.44–3.27)]; and any surgery [OR, 4.48 (3.46–5.81)] were independently associated with PE. Spinal injury, long bone open fracture in extremities, central vein catheter placement, and any surgery were risk factors for post-traumatic PE. Prompt initiation of prophylaxis is needed for patients with such trauma.
Comparison of the impact of chronic corticosteroid therapy on critical care outcomes of COVID-19 patients with and without history of chronic liver disease
Authors: Liaquat Hammad , Shupp Brittney , Rollins Samantha , Schneider Yecheskel , Matin Ayaz
Published: September 2021

There is a paucity of studies investigating the impact of chronic corticosteroid use for coexisting conditions in patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Additionally, the information regarding the impact of chronic liver disease (CLD) on COVID-19 outcomes is evolving. Our study aims to investigate hospitalization outcomes of patients with COVID-19 on long term corticosteroids for coexisting conditions while also seeking to compare outcomes between such patients with a history of CLD to analyze the impact on mortality. We conducted a retrospective chart review across our 10-hospital network identifying patients on chronic corticosteroids (Prednisone ≥ 5 mg daily dose or equivalent dose of another steroid, for a duration of 30 days or more) who were hospitalized with COVID-19 from March 1, 2020 to June 30, 2020. Of these patients who met inclusion criteria, patients were then divided into groups based upon their history of CLD. Primary outcomes of the study looked to investigate the hospitalization outcomes of patients with a history of CLD and comorbid conditions requiring chronic corticosteroid use. Secondary outcomes sought to further investigate risk factors for mortality in our study sample. 837 charts were reviewed. 139 patients met inclusion criteria of which 34 patients had a history of CLD. Statistical analysis demonstrated no difference in length of hospital stay but increased ICU admission rate in the CLD group (41.2% vs 23.8%). No statistically significant difference was seen in between the CLD and non-CLD groups in term of complication rates and 28-day mortality. However, chronic corticosteroids patients were found to have higher rates of ICU admission and overall 28-day and ICU mortality in comparison to patients who were not on chronic corticosteroids prior to COVID-19 hospitalization. The larger contributor to COVID-19 severity was likely chronic corticosteroid use rather than CLD and thus chronic corticosteroid use should be limited throughout the COVID-19 pandemic especially in patients with additional speculated risk factors for COVID-19 such as CLD.
First transition series metal–organic frameworks: synthesis, properties and applications
Authors: Kaushal Sandeep , Kaur Gurmeet , Kaur Jasmeen , Singh Prit Pal
Published: September 2021

Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) have captured immense attention in the last decade, owing to their better adsorption properties as compared to those of organic as well as inorganic materials, like enormous surface area, highly porous nature, tunable pore size, and high stability.
First-principles investigation of two-dimensional covalent–organic framework electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution/reduction and hydrogen evolution reactions
Authors: Ji Jing , Zhang Cunjin , Qin Shuaibo , Jin Peng
Published: September 2021

Covalent–organic frameworks containing different metal centers are promising electrocatalysts for the OER, ORR and HER with rather low theoretical potentials.
Fast and scale-up synthesis of amorphous C,N co-doped mesoporous Co-based phosphates as advanced electrodes for supercapacitors and water oxidation
Authors: Guo Zheng-Han , Lin Jie-Ying , Chen Pei-Ru , Ou Kai-Qin , Xu Xiang-Ya , Li Jin-Kun , Huang Sai , Sang Xin-Xin , Liu Jing-Cheng , Song Jun-Ling
Published: September 2021

Convenient and green methods to synthesize highly efficient and stable multi-functional electrode materials are the key and a challenge for the industrial application of new energy conversion devices.
Discovery of a multiphase O VI and O VII absorber in the circumgalactic/intergalactic transition region
Authors: Ahoranta Jussi , Finoguenov Alexis , Bonamente Massimiliano , Tilton Evan , Wijers Nastasha , Muzahid Sowgat , Schaye Joop
Published: September 2021

Aims. The observational constraints on the baryon content of the warm-hot intergalactic medium (WHIM) rely almost entirely on far ultraviolet (FUV) measurements. However, cosmological, hydrodynamical simulations predict strong correlations between the spatial distributions of FUV and X-ray absorbing WHIM. We investigate this prediction by analyzing XMM-Newton X-ray counterparts of FUV-detected intergalactic O VI absorbers known from FUSE and HST/STIS data, thereby aiming to gain understanding on the properties of the hot component of FUV absorbers and to compare this information to the predictions of simulations.

Methods. We study the X-ray absorption at the redshift of the only significantly detected O VI absorber in the Ton S 180 sightline’s FUV spectrum, found at zOVI = 0.04579 ± 0.00001. We characterize the spectral properties of the O VI-O VIII absorbers and explore the ionization processes behind the measured absorption. The observational results are compared to the predicted warm-hot gas properties in the EAGLE simulation to infer the physical conditions of the absorber.

Results. We detect both O VI and O VII absorption at a 5σ confidence level, whereas O VIII absorption is not significantly detected. Collisional ionization equilibrium (CIE) modeling constrains the X-ray absorbing gas temperature to log TCIE (K) = 6.22 ± 0.05 with a total hydrogen column density NH = 5.8−2.2+3.0 × Z⊙/Zabs × 1019 cm−2. This model predicts an O VI column density consistent with that measured in the FUV, but our limits on the O VI line width indicate > 90% likelihood that the FUV-detected O VI arises from a different, cooler phase. We find that the observed absorber lies about a factor of two further away from the detected galaxies than is the case for similar systems in EAGLE

Conclusions. The analysis suggests that the detected O VI and O VII trace two different – warm and hot – gas phases of the absorbing structure at z ≈ 0.046, of which the hot component is likely in collisional ionization equilibrium. As the baryon content information of the studied absorber is primarily imprinted in the X-ray band, understanding the abundance of similar systems helps to define the landscape for WHIM searches with future X-ray telescopes. Our results highlight the crucial role of line widths for the interpretation and detectability of WHIM absorbers.
Auto-RSM: An automated parameter-selection algorithm for the RSM map exoplanet detection algorithm
Authors: Dahlqvist C.-H. , Cantalloube F. , Absil O.
Published: September 2021

Context. Most of the high-contrast imaging (HCI) data-processing techniques used over the last 15 years have relied on the angular differential imaging (ADI) observing strategy, along with subtraction of a reference point spread function (PSF) to generate exoplanet detection maps. Recently, a new algorithm called regime switching model (RSM) map has been proposed to take advantage of these numerous PSF-subtraction techniques; RSM uses several of these techniques to generate a single probability map. Selection of the optimal parameters for these PSF-subtraction techniques as well as for the RSM map is not straightforward, is time consuming, and can be biased by assumptions made as to the underlying data set.

Aims. We propose a novel optimisation procedure that can be applied to each of the PSF-subtraction techniques alone, or to the entire RSM framework.

Methods. The optimisation procedure consists of three main steps: (i) definition of the optimal set of parameters for the PSF-subtraction techniques using the contrast as performance metric, (ii) optimisation of the RSM algorithm, and (iii) selection of the optimal set of PSF-subtraction techniques and ADI sequences used to generate the final RSM probability map.

Results. The optimisation procedure is applied to the data sets of the exoplanet imaging data challenge, which provides tools to compare the performance of HCI data-processing techniques. The data sets consist of ADI sequences obtained with three state-of-the-art HCI instruments: SPHERE, NIRC2, and LMIRCam. The results of our analysis demonstrate the interest of the proposed optimisation procedure, with better performance metrics compared to the earlier version of RSM, as well as to other HCI data-processing techniques.
The LOFAR LBA Sky Survey: Deep Fields
Authors: Williams W. L. , de Gasperin F. , Hardcastle M. J. H. , van Weeren R. , Tasse C. , Shimwell T. W. , Best P. N. , Bonato M. , Bondi M. , Brüggen M. , Röttgering H. J. A. , Smith D. J. B.
Published: September 2021

We present the first sub-mJy (≈0.7 mJy beam−1) survey to be completed below 100 MHz, which is over an order of magnitude deeper than previously achieved for widefield imaging of any field at these low frequencies. The high-resolution (15 × 15 arcsec) image of the Boötes field at 34–75 MHz is made from 56 hours of observation with the LOw Frequency ARray (LOFAR) Low Band Antenna (LBA) system. The observations and data reduction, including direction-dependent calibration, are described here. We present a radio source catalogue containing 1948 sources detected over an area of 23.6 deg2, with a peak flux density threshold of 5σ. Using existing datasets, we characterise the astrometric and flux density uncertainties, finding a positional uncertainty of ∼​1.2 arcsec and a flux density scale uncertainty of about 5 per cent. Using the available deep 144-MHz data, we identified 144-MHz counterparts to all the 54-MHz sources, and produced a matched catalogue within the deep optical coverage area containing 829 sources. We calculate the Euclidean-normalised differential source counts and investigate the low-frequency radio source spectral indices between 54 and 144 MHz. Both show a general flattening in the radio spectral indices for lower flux density sources, from ∼ − 0.75 at 144-MHz flux densities between 100 and 1000 mJy to ∼ − 0.5 at 144-MHz flux densities between 5 and 10 mJy. Such flattening is attributable to a growing population of star forming galaxies and compact core-dominated AGN.
Assignment model with multi-objective linear programming for allocating choice ranking using recurrent neural network
Authors: Mirzazadeh Zahra Sadat , Bani Hassan Javad , Mansoori Amin
Published: September 2021

Classic linear assignment method is a multi-criteria decision-making approach in which criteria are weighted and each rank is assigned to a choice. In this study, to abandon the requirement of calculating the weight of criteria and use decision attributes prioritizing and also to be able to assign a rank to more than one choice, a multi-objective linear programming (MOLP) method is suggested. The objective function of MOLP is defined for each attribute and MOLP is solved based on absolute priority and comprehensive criteria methods. For solving the linear programming problems we apply a recurrent neural network (RNN). Indeed, the Lyapunov stability of the proposed model is proved. Results of comparing the proposed method with TOPSIS, VICOR, and MORA methods which are the most common multi-criteria decision schemes show that the proposed approach is more compatible with these methods.
Ich bin die Neue!
Authors: Roßius Sabrina
Published: September 2021

Nach der Übergabe in der Geschäftsstelle übernimmt nun Sabrina Roßius als Geschäftsführerin das Ruder im Bundesverband Pflegemanagement. Lesen Sie mehr über die Neue.
Extension Block Pinning versus percutaneous Fragment Reduction with a Towel Clip and extension Block Pinning with direct Pin Fixation for Treatment of Mallet Fracture
Authors: Lee Jae Hoon , Chung Duke Whan , Baek Jong Hun
Published: September 2021

Purpose This study compared the clinical and radiographic results between extension block pinning (Group A) and percutaneous reduction of the dorsal fragment with a towel clip followed by extension block pinning with direct pin fixation (Group B) for the treatment of mallet fractures.

Patients and Methods A total of 69 patients (group A = 34 patients, group B = 35 patients) who underwent operative treatment for mallet fractures from June 2008 to November 2017 with ≥ 6 months post-surgical follow-up were analysed retrospectively. The extent of subluxation of the distal interphalangeal joint, articular involvement of fracture fragment, fracture gap, and articular step-off were examined on plain radiographs before and after surgery. The functional outcomes were evaluated with the Crawford rating system.

Results The postoperative step-offs were 0.16 mm in group A and 0.01 mm in group B. Group B had a significantly better anatomical outcome than group A. Five patients in group A had a loss of reduction. Among them, two had malunion and post-traumatic arthritis. Meanwhile, no patients in group B presented with loss of reduction and nonunion. The mean extension lags were 4.2° in group A and 1.6° in group B. However, functional outcome did not differ between the two groups at the final follow-up.

Conclusion Fracture reduction using a towel clip and extension block pinning with direct pin insertion for mallet fracture facilitated the anatomical reduction of fragments, and allowed for stable fixation of fragments. Compared with extension block pinning technique, this technique has shown better anatomical results and stability, but not better clinical results.
Eine Frage der Strategie
Authors: Kasper Nico
Published: September 2021

Die wirtschaftliche Situation der Krankenhäuser hat sich durch Corona noch verschlimmert. Viele Kliniken wissen nicht, wie sie wettbewerbsfähig bleiben sollen. Eine Aufgabe, die sich künftig nicht allein mit Sparzwang lösen lassen wird.
Mit Kennzahlen Pflegeprozesse steuern
Authors: Fessler Jenny S. , Fröhlich Martin R. , Angerer Alfred , Bode Karsten
Published: September 2021

In der Automobilindustrie ist es Usus, Prozesse anhand von Kennzahlen zu steuern. Im Krankenhaus liegen diese Möglichkeiten oft noch brach. Lesen Sie, wie Abteilungsleitungen in der Schweiz anhand des Management-Cockpits Zahlen lesen, interpretieren und Maßnahmen daraus ableiten.
Trichloroacetimidate-Triggered Expeditious and Novel Synthesis of N-Acylbenzotriazoles
Authors: Tiwari Vinod K. , Yadav Mangal S. , Jaiswal Manoj K. , Kumar Sunil
Published: September 2021

A facile route for the synthesis of a diverse range of N-acylbenzotriazole derivatives from the corresponding carboxylic acids has been established through a carbonyl activation pathway. In this method, trichloroacetonitrile is performed as an effective reagent for an easy access of N-acylbenzotriazoles which was simply proceeded through the activation of carboxylic acids via in situ imidate formation in anhydrous 1,2-dichloroethane followed by addition of 1H-benzotriazole at 80 °C for 3–4 h. Easy handling, one-pot, and metal-free conditions demonstrate the notable merits of the devised protocol.
Development of Prediction Models for Unplanned Hospital Readmission within 30 Days Based on Common Data Model: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Yoo Sooyoung , Choi Jinwook , Ryu Borim , Kim Seok
Published: September 2021

Background Unplanned hospital readmission after discharge reflects low satisfaction and reliability in care and the possibility of potential medical accidents, and is thus indicative of the quality of patient care and the appropriateness of discharge plans.

Objectives The purpose of this study was to develop and validate prediction models for all-cause unplanned hospital readmissions within 30 days of discharge, based on a common data model (CDM), which can be applied to multiple institutions for efficient readmission management.

Methods Retrospective patient-level prediction models were developed based on clinical data of two tertiary general university hospitals converted into a CDM developed by Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership. Machine learning classification models based on the LASSO logistic regression model, decision tree, AdaBoost, random forest, and gradient boosting machine (GBM) were developed and tested by manipulating a set of CDM variables. An internal 10-fold cross-validation was performed on the target data of the model. To examine its transportability, the model was externally validated. Verification indicators helped evaluate the model performance based on the values of area under the curve (AUC).

Results Based on the time interval for outcome prediction, it was confirmed that the prediction model targeting the variables obtained within 30 days of discharge was the most efficient (AUC of 82.75). The external validation showed that the model is transferable, with the combination of various clinical covariates. Above all, the prediction model based on the GBM showed the highest AUC performance of 84.14 ± 0.015 for the Seoul National University Hospital cohort, yielding in 78.33 in external validation.

Conclusions This study showed that readmission prediction models developed using machine-learning techniques and CDM can be a useful tool to compare two hospitals in terms of patient-data features.
A State-of-the Art Review of SNOMED CT Terminology Binding and Recommendations for Practice and Research
Authors: Rossander Anna , Lindsköld Lars , Ranerup Agneta , Karlsson Daniel
Published: September 2021

Background Unambiguous sharing of data requires information models and terminology in combination, but there is a lack of knowledge as to how they should be combined, leading to impaired interoperability.

Objectives To facilitate creation of guidelines for SNOMED CT terminology binding we have performed a literature review to find existing recommendations and expose knowledge gaps. The primary audience is practitioners and researchers working with terminology binding.

Methods PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched for papers containing “terminology binding,” “subset,” “map,” “information model” or “implement” and the term “SNOMED.”

Results The search yielded 616 unique papers published from 2004 to 2020, from which 55 papers were selected and analyzed inductively. Topics described in the papers include problems related to input material, SNOMED CT, information models, and lack of appropriate tools as well as recommendations regarding competence.

Conclusion Recommendations are given for practitioners and researchers. Many of the stated problems can be solved by better co-operation between domain experts and informaticians and better knowledge of SNOMED CT. Settings where these competences either work together or where staff with knowledge of both act as brokers are well equipped for terminology binding. Tooling is not thoroughly researched and might be a possible way to facilitate terminology binding.
Investigation of Ultrasound as a Diagnostic Imaging Modality for Little League Shoulder
Authors: Fehr Shayne , Whealy Gunnar , Liu Xue-Cheng
Published: September 2021

Objective Ultrasound (US) is an established imaging modality in adult sports medicine but is not commonly used in the diagnosis of pediatric sports conditions, such as Little League shoulder (LLS). This study was conducted to determine the reliability of US measurement of width of the physis at the proximal humerus in diagnosed LLS and to compare US to radiography (RA) in detecting a difference between the affected (dominant) (A) and unaffected (U) shoulders.

Materials and Methods Ten male baseball players diagnosed with LLS were enrolled in the study. US images of the proximal humeral physis at the greater tuberosity of both shoulders were obtained by an US-trained sports medicine physician, and the physeal width was measured. Blinded to prior measurements, a separate physician performed measurements on the stored US images. Measurements were compared with RA on the anteroposterior (AP) view for both A and U at the time of the initial visit and for A at follow-up.

Results The physeal width (mm) at A and U at the initial visit averaged 5.94 ± 1.69 and 4.36 ± 1.20 respectively on RA, and 4.15 ± 1.12 and 3.40 ± 0.85 on US. Median difference of averaged US measurements between A and U at initial evaluation was 0.75 mm (p = 0.00016). A linear model showed US measurements to be predictive of RA on A (R2 = 0.51) and U (R2 = 0.48).

Conclusion US was able to reliably measure the width of the proximal humeral physis and detect a difference between A and U. US correlated well with RA (standard for LLS). US should be considered by the US-trained physician for the diagnosis of LLS.
Expanding the Spectrum of EEG Periodic Discharges in Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis: A Case Report
Authors: Aleksandrova Iliyana , Asenova Asya , Deneva Daniela , Bojinova Veneta
Published: September 2021

Background Atypical electroencephalogram (EEG) abnormalities emerge in patients with subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), especially in cases with an atypical clinical presentation that can lead to diagnostic difficulties.

Case Report In this article, we presented a case of SSPE with an atypical onset with epileptic seizures and Parkinson's features. The neurological examination during the initial evaluation of the patient showed extrapyramidal syndrome, hyperreflexia, intention tremor, and dysmetria. Cranial magnetic resonance imaging was normal. Video EEGs were performed in wakefulness and sleep. In wakefulness, multiple brief seizures (1–1.5 seconds were recorded, consisting of gradual bending of the body forward and to the right that lacked the sudden characteristic of myoclonia. During those episodes, we recorded generalized epileptiform activity of 4 or 5 sharp waves, with higher amplitude in the anterior regions, in some of the paroxysms superimposed on a slow wave or followed by a high amplitude slow wave. The paroxysms appeared periodically every 15 to 30 seconds. However, 2 months later, the EEG showed typical periodic generalized activity of biphasic/triphasic slow waves (Radermecker complexes), accompanied by myoclonias.

Conclusion We reported a peculiar EEG pattern in a patient with SSPE that consists of periodic generalized activity of sharp waves. Atypical EEG patterns can appear when the disease progresses, but initially too, before typical periodic complexes and can complicate the diagnostic process.
Contemporary Management of Distal Anterior Cerebral Artery Aneurysms: A Dual-Trained Neurosurgeon's Perspective
Authors: Furtado Sunil V. , Jayakumar Dravya , Perikal Parichay J. , Mohan Dilip
Published: September 2021

Objectives Distal anterior cerebral artery (DACA) aneurysms are a subset of aneurysms located in the anterior circulation but away from the circle of Willis. We analyze the clinical presentation and outcomes of two treatment groups—surgical and endovascular—for DACA aneurysms managed by a dual-trained neurosurgeon.

Material and Methods A retrospective evaluation of radiological and operative/interventional data of 34 patients with 35 DACA aneurysms over a 12-year period was analyzed. Twenty-seven patients underwent surgery, whereas seven underwent endovascular coiling of the aneurysms. Modified Fisher grade and World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies scale (WFNS) were used to note the subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) severity.

Statistical Analysis Categorical data were presented as frequency and percentage, while noncategorical data were represented as mean ± SD. Statistical significance for difference in outcome between the two groups was analyzed using Chi-square test, and p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results Of 34 patients, 33 presented with a bleed and 23.5% patients were noted to have another aneurysm in addition to the DACA aneurysm. Patients who underwent clipping for another aneurysm along with the DACA aneurysm in a single surgical exercise had a poor outcome compared with those who underwent surgery for the lone DACA aneurysm (7 vs. 20, p = 0.015). Most patients in both surgical (70.37%) and endovascular (85.71%) groups had good outcome (mRS ≤ 2).

Conclusions A good outcome can be achieved with either surgery or endovascular coiling in the management of DACA aneurysms. In patients with multiple aneurysms, SAH with aneurysmal rupture of DACA should be managed first; the other unruptured aneurysm may be operated after an interval to avoid morbidity.
Inclusive Education for Children with Special Needs and Autism: Status in the Schools of Puducherry, India
Authors: Mukkiri Sujitha , Kandasamy Preeti , Subramanian Mahadevan , Chandrasekaran Venkatesh , Kattimani Shivanand
Published: September 2021

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting social interaction and communication. Children with autism are at risk of school exclusion because of the inherent problems in behavior and communication. This study was performed in Puducherry to determine whether inclusive education is practiced for children with ASD and to ascertain the difficulties faced by educators in the schools that enroll children with ASD. This study was performed in the mainstream (regular) and special schools of Puducherry between November 2018 and February 2019. The mainstream schools were contacted over the telephone, by e-mail, and by regular post, and the investigator contacted the special schools in person. Data were collected using a semistructured proforma. A total of 66 schools participated in the survey (60 mainstream and 6 special schools). Among 60 mainstream schools comprising 3,967 children, 18 (0.45%) were children with special needs (CWSN) and 2 (0.05%) had ASD. In the six special schools comprising 2,167 children, 1,844 (85%) were CWSN and 323 (15%) were those with ASD. Among the 60 mainstream schools, only 14 (23.3%) schools had provision for special educators, accounting for 42 teachers. Behavioral problems were commonly reported in special schools. Enrollment of children with ASD is negligible in mainstream schools compared with special schools in Puducherry. More studies are needed to explore the reason for the same and to explore the feasibility of providing access to disabled children in mainstream schools.
Revisiting Intraoperative 2D USG with Saline–Air Mixture as Contrast for Resection of Eloquent Area Glioma in Resource-Deficient Countries
Authors: Sahoo Sushanta K. , Salunke Pravin , Ahuja Chirag Kamal
Published: September 2021

Background Advanced ultrasound, intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), neuromonitoring, and aminolevulenic acid have improved the resection and safety of eloquent area gliomas. However, availability of these modern gadgets is a major concern in resource-deficient countries. A two-dimensional ultrasonography 2D USG is cheaper, provides real-time imaging, and is already established but underutilized instrument.

Objective Here, we revisited the principles of 2D USG and used it for eloquent-area glioma surgery.

Materials and Methods Fifty-eight patients with eloquent area gliomas were operated in last 2 years with the aid of 2D USG with 6-13 MHz curvilinear probe. Preoperative diagnosis was high-grade glioma in 38 and low-grade glioma (LGG) in 20 patients. Tumors were categorized as predominantly hyperechoic (27), uniformly hyperechoic (7), mixed echogenicity (21), and cystic (3).

Results Intraoperatively, 2D USG could define the tumor margins in 46 cases. Of these, USG suggested gross total excision in 38 patients and subtotal in 8 patients. The findings matched with follow-up MRI in 34 patients who showed hyperechogenicity (predominant/uniform). Injecting saline with air in to the resection cavity and insinuating through adjacent brain parenchyma helped in detecting residual lesion in three cystic gliomas and in two LGG where the tumor cavity collapsed.

Conclusion 2D USG is a helpful tool in eloquent area glioma surgery, especially in resource-limited countries. Visualization through adjacent parenchyma and injection of saline–air mixture in to the resection cavity helped in delineating residual lesion. Extent of resection is best monitored by 2D USG when tumor appeared hyperechoic (predominant/uniform).
Hyperammonemic Encephalopathy Associated with 5-Flurouracil Infusion in Head and Neck Cancer: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Das Saikat , Ahmad Aftab , Prasun Pallav , Kharade Vipin , Gupta Manish
Published: September 2021

Hyperammonemic encephalopathy is an uncommon, potentially lethal adverse effect of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). Being one of the most common and versatile chemotherapy agents, it is important to understand this important side effect of 5FU. There is paucity of data in this subject. Here, we report a case of 5FU-induced encephalopathy in a patient on induction chemotherapy for head and neck cancer. In this case report, the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of 5FU-induced encephalopathy is reported.
Experiments test Penrose’s hypothesis on massive quantum superpositions
Authors: Kim Meeri
Published: September 2021

Which types of mechanical oscillators fulfill the criteria to experimentally study the interplay between quantum mechanics and general relativity.
Whole-heart ventricular arrhythmia modeling moving forward: Mechanistic insights and translational applications
Authors: Sung Eric , Etoz Sevde , Zhang Yingnan , Trayanova Natalia A.
Published: September 2021

Ventricular arrhythmias are the primary cause of sudden cardiac death and one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Whole-heart computational modeling offers a unique approach for studying ventricular arrhythmias, offering vast potential for developing both a mechanistic understanding of ventricular arrhythmias and clinical applications for treatment. In this review, the fundamentals of whole-heart ventricular modeling and current methods of personalizing models using clinical data are presented. From this foundation, the authors summarize recent advances in whole-heart ventricular arrhythmia modeling. Efforts in gaining mechanistic insights into ventricular arrhythmias are discussed, in addition to other applications of models such as the assessment of novel therapeutics. The review emphasizes the unique benefits of computational modeling that allow for insights that are not obtainable by contemporary experimental or clinical means. Additionally, the clinical impact of modeling is explored, demonstrating how patient care is influenced by the information gained from ventricular arrhythmia models. The authors conclude with future perspectives about the direction of whole-heart ventricular arrhythmia modeling, outlining how advances in neural network methodologies hold the potential to reduce computational expense and permit for efficient whole-heart modeling.