bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long‐Term COVID‐19 Smell and Taste Disorders Differ Significantly from Other Post‐Infectious Cases
Authors: Stankevice Dovile , Fjaeldstad Alexander Wieck , Agergaard Jane , Ovesen Therese
Published: October 2022

Introduction

COVID‐19 is causing a wide range of clinical manifestations. Severe complications and long‐lasting sequelae have been identified. Thus, olfactory disorders are reported in up to 86% of cases in mild and moderate COVID‐19 infections. We present the first study comparing simple and complex post‐COVID‐19 cases with matched non‐COVID‐19 post‐infectious smell and taste disorders.

Methods

A total of 328 patients were recruited from the University Clinic for Flavour, Balance and Sleep, Ear‐nose‐throat Department, Goedstrup Hospital, Denmark. A non‐COVID ‐19 post‐infectious population of 148 individuals was identified from the Redcap database, and was matched by duration of smell and taste disorders. Post‐COVID‐19 patients were divided into 99 patients with simple smell and taste disorders (only suffering from smell and taste disorders after COVID‐19); and (81 patients with complex smell and taste disorder plus several other post‐COVID‐19 complaints). Besides patient‐reported outcome measures (PROM) questionnaires and quality of life score (QoL), ear‐nose‐throat examination, Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE), orthonasal smell test (Sniffing's sticks), retronasal quick test, and taste screening were performed.

Results

Cases with post‐COVID‐19‐related smell and taste disorders deviated from non‐COVID‐19 post‐infectious cases; the patients were younger, had a lower occurrence of anosmia/ageusia, and had higher overall smell test scores. In contrast, patients with post‐COVID‐19‐related smell and taste disorders more frequently complained of distorted senses. Parosmia and phantosmia were more prevalent among patients with simple post‐COVID‐19 complaints than among complex cases and their QoL were more negatively affected.

Conclusion

Smell and taste function differ significantly between post‐COVID‐19 and other non‐COVID‐19 post‐viral cases.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 133:169–174, 2023
Metasurface‐Assisted Indirect‐Observation Cryptographic System
Authors: Li Jiaxin , Guan Zhiqiang , Liu Hong‐Chao , He Zhixue , Li Zile , Yu Shaohua , Zheng Guoxing
Published: October 2022

Metasurfaces provide a novel platform for information encryption due to their incomparable competence for the manipulation of different optical characteristics. Most current encryption schemes, however, decrypt the hidden information through a direct illumination of the metasurface, and the security of which cannot be fully guaranteed since the number of illumination condition is very limited and vulnerable for exhaustive attack. Herein, a cryptographic system based on the indirect‐observation decryption is proposed, the hidden information of which can only be decoded by combining the metasurface‐transformed ciphertext and particular decryption devices based on the digit‐shift images and spatial light modulator, thus possessing ultra‐high confidentiality. In addition, an anti‐counterfeiting label is designed to guarantee the information authenticity. This work builds a distinct bridge between metasurface and other light‐manipulation elements, nanoprint and hologram, and amplitude‐ and phase‐modulated information, thus opening up a new methodology for constructing cryptographic systems in an indirect‐observation way, which may promote the advanced exploration of optical multiplexing and steganography.
Fast‐spin‐echo versus rapid gradient‐echo for 3D magnetization‐prepared acquisitions: Application to inhomogeneous magnetization transfer
Authors: Taso Manuel , Munsch Fanny , Girard Olivier M. , Duhamel Guillaume , Alsop David C. , Varma Gopal
Published: October 2022

Purpose

To evaluate the benefits of fast spin echo (FSE) imaging over rapid gradient‐echo (RAGE) for magnetization‐prepared inhomogeneous magnetization transfer (ihMT) imaging.

Methods

A 3D FSE sequence was modified to include an ihMT preparation (ihMT‐FSE) with an optional CSF suppression based on an inversion‐recovery (ihMT‐FLAIR). After numeric simulations assessing SNR benefits of FSE and the potential impact of an additional inversion‐recovery, ihMT‐RAGE, ihMT‐FSE, and ihMT‐FLAIR sequences were compared in a group of six healthy volunteers, evaluating image quality, thermal, and physiological noise as well as quantification using an ihMT saturation (ihMTsat) approach. A preliminary exploration in the cervical spinal cord was also conducted in a group of three healthy volunteers.

Results

Several fold improvements in thermal SNR were observed with ihMT‐FSE in agreement with numerical simulations. However, we observed significantly higher physiological noise in ihMT‐FSE compared to ihMT‐RAGE that was mitigated in ihMT‐FLAIR, which provided the best total SNR (+74% and +49% compared to ihMT‐RAGE in the white and gray matter, P ≤ 0.004). IhMTsat quantification was successful in all cases with strong correlation between all sequences (r2 > 0.75). Early experiments showed potential for spinal cord imaging.

Conclusions

FSE generally offers higher SNR compared to gradient‐echo based acquisitions for magnetization‐prepared contrasts as illustrated here in the case of ihMT. However, physiological noise has a significant effect, but an inversion–recovery‐based CSF suppression was shown to be efficient in mitigating effects of CSF motion.
Inheritance and Expression of Koi Color Dominant Mutations in Koi × Goldfish Hybrids
Authors: Gomelsky Boris , Novelo Noel D. , Warner Jeffrey L.
Published: October 2022

The purpose of the study was to investigate the inheritance and expression of the koi color dominant mutations “design” and “red eyes” in koi × Goldfish hybrids (koi Cyprinus carpio × Goldfish Carassius auratus). The mutation “design” manifests as a yellow stripe along the dorsal fin and a specific ornament on the head; this trait is controlled by a dominant allele of one gene (D/d). In four progenies that were obtained by crosses of koi females having the “design” trait with Goldfish males, the segregations of so-called "ghost fish," having a melanin-pigmented body with the “design” pattern, and fish having wild-type color, without the “design” pattern, were close to the Mendelian 1:1 ratio. This indicates that koi females with the “design” trait that are used for the production of these progenies had the genotype Dd, whereas the Goldfish males had the genotype dd. In one progeny that was obtained by crossing a koi female having the “design” trait with a Goldfish male, 420 ghost fish (99.8%) and one fish with wild-type color (0.2%) were recorded. The koi female from which this progeny originated was apparently homozygous for the dominant allele (genotype DD). Earlier, it was shown that the appearance of red eyes in koi is caused not by the albino mutation, but by another dominant demelanization mutation (R). In three progenies that were obtained by crossing koi females having red eyes with Goldfish males, the segregations of the larvae with unpigmented bodies and light eye lenses and those with dark bodies and black eye lenses were close to 1:1. Later, three types of body color were observed in the juveniles of these progenies: yellow, brown, and wild-type; all of the juveniles had black eyes. The segregations of colored (yellow + brown) and wild-type-color juveniles were close to 1:1. This shows that that the red-eyed koi females that were used in the crosses were heterozygous (genotype Rr), whereas the Goldfish males had genotype rr. The described colored forms of koi × Goldfish hybrids can be used for weed control.
Swedish emergency nurses' experiences of the preconditions for the safe collection of blood culture in the emergency department during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Lundgren Gunilla , Bengtsson Mariette , Liebenhagen Andreas
Published: October 2022

Aim

To describe how Swedish emergency nurses experience the preconditions of providing safe care during the COVID‐19 pandemic when collecting blood culture in the emergency department.

Design

A qualitative exploratory design using content analysis with a manifest approach.

Method

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 13 emergency nurses working in the emergency department.

Results

The analysis resulted in one main category: unprecedented preconditions create extraordinary stress and jeopardize safe care when collecting blood culture. This main category includes four additional categories: organizational changes, challenges in the isolation room, heavy workload creates great stress, and continuous learning.

Conclusion

The COVID‐19 outbreak has made the emergency department a workplace where constant changes of routines combined with new information and reorganization risk jeopardize safe care during blood culture sampling. Accordingly, high workload and stress have been identified as a reason for emergency nurses not following guidelines. It is therefore necessary to optimize the preconditions during blood culture sampling and identify situations where there are shortcomings.
Association of nursing hours with cognitive function, balance, and dependency level of stroke patients
Authors: Lee Haneul , Lee Kyounga , Lee Seon‐Heui
Published: October 2022

Aims

To examine the association of nursing hours given to patients with stroke with clinical characteristics to predict the nursing care needs.

Design

Twenty‐four‐hour observational study

Methods

Nursing hours per patient day (NHPPD) of 171 stroke patients were measured by 146 nursing personnel who worked on the day of the observation. Cognitive function, balance ability and dependency level were assessed using the Korean version of the Mini‐Mental State Examination (K‐MMSE), the Korean version of the Berg Balance Scale (K‐BBS) and the Korean version of the Modified Barthel Index (K‐MBI), respectively.

Results

The NHPPD were moderately correlated with K‐MMSE (r = −.450), K‐BBS (r = −.529) and K‐MBI (r = −.549). The worse the cognitive function, balance ability and dependency level, the more were the nursing hours given to the patients. Therefore, these factors can be considered to be factors that predict nursing care needs for patients with stroke.
A well‐being framework for cross‐cultural assessment of development scenarios: A case study from North‐Western Australia
Authors: Wallace Kenneth , Kiatkoski Kim Milena , Álvarez‐Romero Jorge G. , Pannell David , Hill Rosemary , Marshall Melissa
Published: October 2022

In Western‐democratic countries, it is widely accepted that affected communities should be involved in natural resource planning and decisions. This is especially so when the well‐being of diverse communities is directly involved, and where alternative future options are being considered. Although there is an agreement that ‘values’ and ‘well‐being’, in some form, guide decisions, there is no consensus on the well‐being framework(s) that might be used in participatory planning.

To assist a multicultural group in assessing alternative future development scenarios for the Martuwarra (Fitzroy River) in Western Australia, we developed a well‐being framework that culturally diverse communities could share and use to discuss and assess scenarios. In this paper, we aim to evaluate the effectiveness of the well‐being framework used to assess the potential impacts of scenarios by (i) analysing how effectively participants used the well‐being framework; (ii) verifying whether the well‐being framework was sensitive to the cultural diversity of participants and (iii) direct evaluation by workshop participants.

Our analysis shows that participants effectively applied most well‐being categories, and the framework was sensitive to the cross‐cultural context of the application by capturing Aboriginal cultural elements. However, the approach can be improved by including principles of behaviour; producing a more complete system model; and reviewing and amending the well‐being categories in more extensive community consultation.

We conclude that the interaction among different worldviews generated valuable knowledge and that, with further adaptation, the framework shows promise for applications involving similar tasks in culturally diverse contexts.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Evaluation of bifacial module technologies with combined‐accelerated stress testing
Authors: Hacke Peter , Kumar Akash , Terwilliger Kent , Ndione Paul , Spataru Sergiu , Pavgi Ashwini , Choudhury Kaushik Roy , Tamizhmani Govindasamy
Published: October 2022

In view of the increasing interest and market share of bifacial cells and modules, suitable substrates such as glass and transparent backsheets along with ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) and polyolefin elastomer (POE) encapsulants were examined in combined‐accelerated stress testing (C‐AST) to evaluate and compare degradation modes. Testing with both monofacial and bifacial cells, we found that glass–glass modules with monofacial cells led to greater grid finger breakage than those with polymeric backsheets. This is attributed to previous X‐ray topography and modeling work showing higher stress in cells and interconnections in glass–glass modules than glass backsheet modules. Consistent with the objectives of C‐AST, which stresses modules at levels corresponding to the limits seen in the natural environment, we observed the UV‐fluorescence signatures of modules tested in C‐AST (considering the degradation associated with developing chromophores, moisture penetration, and photobleaching effects) to be like those in fielded modules, more so than other chamber stress testing implemented for comparison. We found light‐induced degradation (LID) in module types with regenerated (inactive) cells with C‐AST, suggesting the possibility of LID destabilization in some field conditions. We could also distinguish potential‐induced degradation (PID) on the back of the bifacial passivated emitter and rear cells (PERC) in C‐AST. Confirming with ex situ tests, we found polarization‐type PID most prevalent in glass‐glass modules with EVA as would be anticipated considering the greater leakage current through such module encapsulation. Unlike PID tests performed in the dark, which can lead to false positive PID test results, field‐representative illumination is experienced by the modules on the front and back sides while −1200 V system voltage is applied in C‐AST, supporting the conclusion that this module type with glass‐glass construction would be susceptible to PID in the field.
The N‐terminus of obscurin is flexible in solution
Authors: Mauriello Gianna E. , Moncure Grace E. , Nowzari Roujon A. , Miller Callie J. , Wright Nathan T.
Published: October 2022

The N‐terminal half of the giant cytoskeletal protein obscurin is comprised of more than 50 Ig‐like domains, arranged in tandem. Domains 18–51 are connected to each other through short 5‐residue linkers, and this arrangement has been previously shown to form a semi‐flexible rod in solution. Domains 1–18 generally have slightly longer ~7 residue interdomain linkers, and the multidomain structure and motion conferred by this kind of linker is understudied. Here, we use NMR, SAXS, and MD to show that these longer linkers are associated with significantly more domain/domain flexibility, with the resulting multidomain structure being moderately compact. Further examination of the relationship between interdomain flexibility and linker length shows there is a 5 residue “sweet spot” linker length that results in dual‐domain systems being extended, and conversely that both longer or shorter linkers result in a less extended structure. This detailed knowledge of the obscurin N terminus structure and flexibility allowed for mathematical modeling of domains 1–18, which suggests that this region likely forms tangles if left alone in solution. Given how infrequently protein tangles occur in nature, and given the pathological outcomes that occur when tangles do arise, our data suggest that obscurin is likely either significantly scaffolded or else externally extended in the cell.
New insights into phosphorus biphilicity: Stereochemistry of monocyclic aminophosphoranes formation
Authors: Mejri Alia , Fliss Outaf , Essalah Khaled , Boughdiri Mohamed Ali , Picaud Fabien , Tangour Bahoueddine , Sayari Abdelhamid
Published: October 2022

Oxidative addition of aliphatic amine on monocyclic 2‐R‐1,3,2‐dioxaphospholane (R = methyl or phenyl) leading to phosphoranes bearing a PH axial bond was investigated using a combined theoretical and experimental approach. The reaction followed first order kinetics for both reactants. The activation parameters were consistent with a concerted mechanism exhibiting stereo, enantio, and regio specificities. Systematic density functional theory studies including reactivity descriptors, structural parameters, determination of all possible phosphorane isomers, their transition states and their formation mechanisms were carried out to delineate the reaction pathway. Depending on the nature of the atom in the final apical position (H, N of the amine, or C of the methyl), three types of phosphoranes were identified. Energy profiles, using the intrinsic reaction coordinate technique for the formation of each isomer, were established. It was shown that the phosphorus biphilicity acts in three consecutive sequences, namely nitrogen nucleophilic attack leading to a supermolecule structure, nucleophilic behavior of phosphorus in the transition state zone of influence, and electrophilic approach of the nitrogen atom to complete the reaction. Phosphorane with an equatorial PH bond was found to be a kinetic product that transforms rapidly to the thermodynamically stable isomer with axial PH via two consecutive Berry pseudo‐rotations. A new tool, referred to reactive internal reaction coordinates, was introduced to represent the reaction path more clearly.
Prevalence and pattern of soft‐tissue rheumatism in a rural community in South‐South Nigeria: A cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Agbebaku Folasade , Emorinken Airenakho , Agbebaku Solomon
Published: October 2022

Background

Soft tissue rheumatism arises from the pathology of periarticular structures. They are marked by pain and disability. Epidemiological studies in sub‐Saharan Africa are sparse. This study aimed to determine the epidemiology of soft‐tissue rheumatism in a rural community in South‐South Nigeria.

Methods

This was a community‐based, cross‐sectional study conducted from February to July 2017 in South‐South Nigeria among 319 participants using the Community Oriented Program for the Control of Rheumatic Diseases (COPCORD) methodology. Participants aged 18 years and older were included in the study. Subjects reporting positive musculoskeletal pain were examined for specific soft tissue rheumatism. The diagnosis was based on established criteria.

Results

The mean age of the study population was 48.87 ± 19.58 years. The prevalence of soft‐tissue rheumatism was 11.0% (35/319). Soft tissue rheumatism was more prevalent in females (24, 68.6%) than in males (11, 31.4%). The most common form of soft‐tissue rheumatism diagnosed was adhesive capsulitis (20.0%), closely followed by rotator cuff tendinitis (14.3%), carpal tunnel syndrome (14.3%), and plantar fasciitis (14.3%). Age (p = 0.06), body mass index (p = 0.034), and dyslipidemia (p = 0.028) were significantly associated with the prevalence of soft‐tissue rheumatism. A significant disability index (HAQ‐DI ≥ 1) was recorded in 40.0% of participants with soft tissue rheumatism. Twelve (34.3%) participants with soft‐tissue rheumatism attributed the disorder to their work, and 74.3% used hospital‐prescribed medications for treatment.

Conclusion

Soft‐tissue rheumatism is associated with a significant disability affecting activities of daily living. Factors associated with its prevalence include increasing age and obesity.
Eurasian wanderer: an island sabre‐toothed cat (Felidae, Machairodontinae) in the Far East
Authors: Tsai Cheng‐Hsiu , Tseng Zhijie Jack
Published: October 2022

Machairodontinae, including the famous Smilodon and Homotherium, was an iconic Pleistocene carnivore lineage that occupied a critical ecological palaeo‐niche and is thought to have had a profound impact on ice‐age ecosystem structure. Recent ancient molecular studies on Homotherium suggest a wider distribution than that inferred from the fossil record, highlighting a need for additional fieldwork, fossil collection, and research in understudied geographic regions. After the original publication 80 years ago that identified a Pleistocene carnivore fossil as Felis sp. in Taiwan, here we revise its identification and demonstrate the presence of the large machairodontine cat, cf. Homotherium sp., in the Pleistocene of Taiwan, suggesting the eastern‐most occurrence of this lineage in Eurasia. Our results also emphasize the importance of fossil curation and in‐depth research in elucidating regional hidden diversity and lost ecosystem structure for the understanding faunal turnover and the origin of modern biodiversity.
Personal support and its impact on the mental health of first‐generation and transfer students
Authors: Mikell Jamie Gilbert , Davis William J.
Published: October 2022

First‐generation college students (FGCS) face unique challenges compared to non‐first‐generation peers. Lack of personal, emotional, financial, or psychological support may create difficulties adapting to college. The focus on affordability in higher education and lowering the cost of a bachelor's degree has also made the transfer process an essential part of degree completion for many, with only 41% of transfer students pursuing a bachelor's degree will achieve that goal. Research has made the connection that diminished personal support from parental figures may impact the mental health of FGCS transfer students, leading to higher dropout, lower retention, and lower degree completion rates. Students who experienced increased personal support might experience fewer mental health issues, resulting in a higher chance of degree completion. Future research implications include prioritizing support systems and mental health services to aid FGCS and transfer students lacking personal support in degree completion.
Instructional design for transfer students
Authors: Stanford Morgan , DeCicco Tracey , Cox Heather , Bergantz Letitia
Published: October 2022

At Athens State University, every student is a transfer student. As an institution that enrolls mostly non‐traditional students, faculty and instructional designers understand the importance of accommodating the unique instructional needs of each student in order for them to have a seamless transition into the environment of an upper‐level institution. The diversity of each student's educational experiences can make streamlining instruction a bit challenging. Athens State faculty, in conjunction with instructional design staff, use a specific set of processes and tools to design, develop, and teach courses that are effective, engaging, and most importantly, student centered.
Transfer friendliness at Athens State University
Authors: Bowden Elizabeth
Published: October 2022

Athens State University is an upper‐division university that serves junior and senior undergraduate students, as well as graduate students. 100% of the students enrolled transfer from another institution. The sustainability of ASU requires policies and procedures that make the transfer process seamless and foster student success. As funding for public higher education becomes more competitive at the state level, public institutions are becoming more reliant on tuition, therefore embracing policies including a transfer‐friendly approach that positively affects student persistence and retention is a necessity. This section examines the concept of transfer friendliness at Athens State University. Also provided are recommendations for managing transfer‐friendly policies in a post‐COVID‐19 environment at a public university.
Comparison of the Effective Isotropic Radiated Power Parameter in CYGNSS v2.1 and v3.0 Level 1 Data and Its Impact on Soil Moisture Estimation
Authors: Setti Paulo T. , Dam Tonie van
Published: October 2022

The effective isotropic radiated power (EIRP) is the measured radiated power of an antenna pointed in a specific direction. For the Global Positioning System (GPS), the EIRP is a function of the transmitted power and the gain of the transmitting antenna. It is a fundamental observation used for estimating surface reflectivity that can be used to estimate near-surface soil moisture. Most investigations of GPS EIRP for soil moisture used level 1 version 2.1 data from the eight satellites of the Cyclone Global Navigation Satellite System (CYGNSS) mission. The newer version 3.0 introduces a dynamic EIRP calibration algorithm with the variations in GPS transmit power being tracked using the direct signal power measured by the navigation receivers. In this paper we compare the estimated EIRP from versions 2.1 and 3.0 for the year of 2020. We correlate the estimated surface reflectivity with reference soil moisture observations from the Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP) mission provided on a 9x9 km grid using the bistatic radar equation for coherent reflections. The correlation of CYGNSS with SMAP is slightly improved using version 3.0 versus 2.1 with average of 0.10 and maximum of 0.30. The advantage of version 3.0 was most noticeable in areas where soil moisture retrieval is challenging, such as the arid and densely vegetated regions of the world.
Islands and the de Sitter entropy bound
Authors: Teresi Daniele
Published: October 2022

Abstract

The de Sitter (dS) entropy bound gives the maximal number of e-folds that non-eternal inflation can last before violating the thermodynamical interpretation of dS space. This semiclassical argument is the analogue, for dS space, of the Black-Hole information paradox. We use techniques developed to address the latter, namely the island formula, to calculate semiclassically the fine-grained entropy as seen by a Minkowskian observer after inflation and find that this follows a Page-like curve, never exceeding the thermodynamic dS entropy. This calculation, performed for a CFT in 2D gravity, suggests that the semiclassical expectation should be modified in such a way that the entropy bound might actually not be present.
An asymmetric SIMP dark matter model
Authors: Ho Shu-Yu
Published: October 2022

Abstract

In this paper, we construct the first asymmetric strongly interacting massive particles (SIMP) dark matter (DM) model, where a new vector-like fermion and a new complex scalar both having nonzero chemical potentials can be asymmetric DM particles. After the spontaneous breaking of a U(1)D dark gauge symmetry, these two particles can have accidental ℤ4 charges making them stable. By adding one more complex scalar as a mediator between the SIMP DM, the relic density of DM is determined by 3 → 2 and two-loop induced 2 → 2 annihilations in this model. On the other hand, the SIMP DM can maintain kinetic equilibrium with the thermal bath until the DM freeze-out temperature via the new gauge interaction. Interestingly, this model can have a bouncing effect on DM, whereby the DM number density rises after the chemical freeze-out of DM. With this effect, the prediction of the DM self-interacting cross section in this model can be consistent with astrophysical observations, and the ratio of the DM energy density to the baryonic matter energy density can be explained by primordial asymmetries. We also predict the DM-electron elastic scattering cross section that can be used to test this model in future projected experiments.
In vivo biodistribution and pharmacokinetics of sotrovimab, a SARS-CoV-2 monoclonal antibody, in healthy cynomolgus monkeys
Authors: Aweda Tolulope A. , Cheng Shih-Hsun , Lenhard Stephen C. , Sepp Armin , Skedzielewski Tinamarie , Hsu Chih-Yang , Marshall Shelly , Haag Heather , Kehler Jonathan , Jagdale Prabhas , Peter Alessia , Schmid Michael A. , Gehman Andrew , Doan Minh , Mayer Andrew P. , Gorycki Peter , Fanget Marie , Colas Christophe , Smith Brenda , Maier Curtis C. , Alsaid Hasan
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Sotrovimab (VIR-7831), a human IgG1κ monoclonal antibody (mAb), binds to a conserved epitope on the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein receptor binding domain (RBD). The Fc region of VIR-7831 contains an LS modification to promote neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn)–mediated recycling and extend its serum half-life. Here, we aimed to evaluate the impact of the LS modification on tissue biodistribution, by comparing VIR-7831 to its non-LS-modified equivalent, VIR-7831-WT, in cynomolgus monkeys.

Methods

89Zr-based PET/CT imaging of VIR-7831 and VIR-7831-WT was performed up to 14 days post injection. All major organs were analyzed for absolute concentration as well as tissue:blood ratios, with the focus on the respiratory tract, and a physiologically based pharmacokinetics (PBPK) model was used to evaluate the tissue biodistribution kinetics. Radiomics features were also extracted from the PET images and SUV values.

Results

SUVmean uptake in the pulmonary bronchi for 89Zr-VIR-7831 was statistically higher than for 89Zr-VIR-7831-WT at days 6 (3.43 ± 0.55 and 2.59 ± 0.38, respectively) and 10 (2.66 ± 0.32 and 2.15 ± 0.18, respectively), while the reverse was observed in the liver at days 6 (5.14 ± 0.80 and 8.63 ± 0.89, respectively), 10 (4.52 ± 0.59 and 7.73 ± 0.66, respectively), and 14 (4.95 ± 0.65 and 7.94 ± 0.54, respectively). Though the calculated terminal half-life was 21.3 ± 3.0 days for VIR-7831 and 16.5 ± 1.1 days for VIR-7831-WT, no consistent differences were observed in the tissue:blood ratios between the antibodies except in the liver. While the lung:blood SUVmean uptake ratio for both mAbs was 0.25 on day 3, the PBPK model predicted the total lung tissue and the interstitial space to serum ratio to be 0.31 and 0.55, respectively. Radiomics analysis showed VIR-7831 had mean-centralized PET SUV distribution in the lung and liver, indicating more uniform uptake than VIR-7831-WT.

Conclusion

The half-life extended VIR-7831 remained in circulation longer than VIR-7831-WT, consistent with enhanced FcRn binding, while the tissue:blood concentration ratios in most tissues for both drugs remained statistically indistinguishable throughout the course of the experiment. In the bronchiolar region, a higher concentration of 89Zr-VIR-7831 was detected. The data also allow unparalleled insight into tissue distribution and elimination kinetics of mAbs that can guide future biologic drug discovery efforts, while the residualizing nature of the 89Zr label sheds light on the sites of antibody catabolism.
Comparison of Clinical Outcomes Between Low‐ and High‐Risk Groups of Early Breast Cancer Patients Treated with Intraoperative Radiotherapy in Addition to External Beam Radiation: A Multi‐Centre Prospective Study
Authors: Mosiun J. A. , See Mee‐Hoong , Teoh Li‐Ying , Danaee Mahmoud , Lai Lee‐Lee , Ng Char‐Hong , Yip Cheng‐Har , Teh Mei‐Sze , Taib Nur Aishah Md , Bustam Anita , Malik Rozita Abdul , Saad Marniza , Jamaris Suniza , Ung Ngie‐Min
Published: October 2022

Background

There is a paucity of data on the use of intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT) with low‐energy X‐rays in Malaysian women with early breast cancer. The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical, cosmetic, and patient‐reported outcomes in low‐ and high‐risk early breast cancer patients treated with breast conserving surgery (BCS) and IORT.

Methodology

Patients suitable for BCS who were treated with IORT between January 2016 and June 2019 from three centres were analysed. They were divided into low‐risk and high‐risk groups based on the risk of recurrence according to the TARGeted Intraoperative radioTherapy (TARGIT) A and B study criteria. Outcomes of interest included local recurrence, wound complications, and radiation toxicity, with a subset analysed for cosmetic and patient‐reported outcomes.

Results

Within a median follow‐up of 31 months, there were 104 and 211 patients in the low‐ and high‐risk groups, respectively. No significant difference was observed in local recurrence rates (low‐risk, 1.0% vs. high‐risk, 1.4%; p = 1.000). Both cohorts exhibited low frequencies of severe wound complications ranging between 1.4 and 1.9%. No major radiation toxicities were reported in either group. In the subgroup analysis, low‐risk patients had significantly better mean scores in the subscales of inframammary fold and scar. Based on the BREAST‐Q patient‐reported outcomes questionnaire, seven out of nine parameters were scored similarly between both groups with no significant difference.

Conclusion

This study showed that the use of IORT in both low‐ and high‐risk early breast cancers is efficacious and safe with low recurrence rates and an acceptable toxicity profile.
Characterization of exposure–response relationships of ipatasertib in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer in the IPATential150 study
Authors: Kotani Naoki , Wilkins Justin J. , Wade Janet R. , Dang Steve , Sutaria Dhruvitkumar S. , Yoshida Kenta , Sundrani Sameer , Ding Hao , Garcia Josep , Hinton Heather , Sane Rucha , Chanu Pascal
Published: October 2022

Purpose

The exposure–response relationships for efficacy and safety of ipatasertib, a selective AKT kinase inhibitor, were characterized using data collected from 1101 patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer in the IPATential150 study (NCT03072238).

Methods

External validation of a previously developed population pharmacokinetic model was performed using the observed pharmacokinetic data from the IPATential150 study. Exposure metrics of ipatasertib for subjects who received ipatasertib 400 mg once-daily orally in this study were generated as model-predicted area under the concentration–time curve at steady state (AUCSS). The exposure–response relationship with radiographic progression-free survival (rPFS) was evaluated using Cox regression and relationships with safety endpoints were assessed using logistic regression.

Results

A statistically significant correlation between ipatasertib AUCSS and improved survival was found in patients with PTEN-loss tumors (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.92 per 1000 ng h/mL AUCSS, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.87–0.98, p = 0.011). In contrast, an improvement in rPFS was seen in subjects receiving ipatasertib treatment (HR: 0.84, 95% CI 0.71–0.99, p = 0.038) but this effect was not associated with ipatasertib AUCSS in the intention-to-treat population. Incidences of some adverse events (AEs) had statistically significant association with ipatasertib AUCSS (serious AEs, AEs leading to discontinuation, and Grade ≥ 2 hyperglycemia), while others were associated with only ipatasertib treatment (AEs leading to dose reduction, Grade ≥ 3 diarrhea, and Grade ≥ 2 rash).

Conclusions

The exposure–efficacy results indicated that patients receiving ipatasertib may continue benefiting from this treatment at the administered dose, despite some variability in exposures, while the exposure–safety results suggested increased risks of AEs with ipatasertib treatment and/or increased ipatasertib exposures.
Thrombolysis in central retinal artery occlusion: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Raber Florian Philipp , Gmeiner Florian Vincent , Dreyhaupt Jens , Wolf Armin , Ludolph Albert Christian , Werner Jens Ulrich , Kassubek Jan , Althaus Katharina
Published: October 2022

Background

There is no evidence-based therapy for non-arteritic central retinal artery occlusion (NA-CRAO). Intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) with alteplase in a time window < 4.5 h may lead to a favorable outcome. Purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility, efficacy and safety of IVT in patients classified as functionally blind.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective observational study of NA-CRAO-patients. All patients underwent an ophthalmological and neurological examination including cerebral magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for assessment of additional stroke lesions. Patients were treated either conservatively or with IVT within 4.5 h. Visual acuity (VA) was evaluated in logMAR and a categorical analysis was performed.

Results

Thirty-seven patients were included in the study, 21 patients in the conservative treatment group (CTG) and 16 patients in the IVT group. The median logMAR visual acuity at admission and discharge was similar in both groups. The medium symptom to treatment time in the IVT group was 158.0 min. 3 patients (19%) of the IVT group showed a favorable outcome, all CTG patients remained at the level of functional blindness. No serious adverse events were observed after IVT. MRI showed additional acute stroke in over one-third of the patients (n = 14).

Conclusions

Early intravenous thrombolysis therapy according to the current stroke protocol n a time window up to 4.5 h after the onset of symptoms was feasible and might be a potential treatment option for NA-CRAO. Patients with NA-CRAO are at very high risk of ischemic stroke and MRI should be done in all patients for optimized treatment and secondary stroke prevention. A prospective randomized study is required.
A single-center experience with linear accelerator-based stereotactic radiotherapy for meningiomas: hypofractionation and radiosurgery
Authors: Gawish Ahmed , Abdulayev Nurlan , El-Arayed Souhir , Röllich Burkard , Ochel Hans-Joachim , Brunner Thomas B.
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Meningioma is a common type of benign tumor that can be managed in several ways, ranging from close observation, surgical resection, and various types of radiation. We present here results from a 10 year experience treating meningiomas with a hypofractionated approach.

Materials and methods

To define the rate of tumor control and factors associated with the relief of symptoms and radiation-related complications after radiosurgery and hypofractionated radiosurgery for patients with imaging-defined intracranial meningiomas. We reviewed the charts of 48 patients treated with stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) or hypofractionated stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) from 2002 to 2018. A total of 37 (82%) patients had WHO Grade 1 disease, and 11 (22%) had Grade 2. Outcomes that were analyzed included local control rates and the rate and grade of any reported toxicity.

Results

Only 36 patients with 38 lesions, who underwent the follow-up regime, were enrolled in the retrospective analysis. The follow-up mean was 40 months (12–120 months). 25/34 patients had surgery before the radiotherapy. Sixteen underwent SRS with a median dose of 13, 5, and 20 received hypofractionated SBRT with a median dose of 26.9 (22-45 Gy) in median six fractions (5–13 fractions). Local control at 2 and 5 years for all patients was 90 and 70%, respectively. No patient suffered from toxicity > 2 CTC. 21/36 patients showed stable disease, while 8/36 patients showed partial Remission. 7/36 developed recurrent meningioma (five in-field), only one patient with grade 1 meningioma, in a median of 22 months (13–48 months).

Conclusion

SFRT was superior to SRS for local control in our analysis of Grade I meningiomas. This might be due to a tendency for higher EQD2 in the PTV with SFRT compared to SRS, which was reduced to avoid brain necrosis in large PTVs. Therefore, SFRT appears preferable for typical meningioma PTVs.
“It’s part of our life now”: a qualitative exploration of the social eating experiences of family members of patients living with head and neck cancer
Authors: Dornan Mark , Semple Cherith , Moorhead Anne
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Family members (FMs) of patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) report a change in their social eating experience. They miss out on the opportunities and benefits that eating with others provides. However, few studies investigate FM’s social eating experiences, with existing research primarily focusing on the patient experience. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the social eating experiences of FMs of patients who have had treatment for HNC.

Methods

A qualitative research design using semi-structured interviews was used to understand FM’s social eating experiences. Key themes were inductively developed from the data using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

Twelve interviews were conducted with FMs, and three key themes were identified: (1) changes and challenges experienced by FMs due to HNC patients’ social eating difficulties, (2) living with social eating changes is a balancing act, and (3) FMs’ efforts to promote social eating for a patient with HNC. FMs expressed significant changes to their social eating habits within and outside the home, indicating the need for support to meet their own emotional, psychological and social needs.

Conclusion

FMs experience many demands and tensions, having to balance the psychological impact they experience, which are often minimised, whilst attempting to find the best ways to support, protect and encourage their loved ones to adjust and adapt to social eating changes. Therefore, interventions need to support FMs’ challenges and equip them to know how to best support patients living with HNC and themselves.
Aflibercept with FOLFIRI in Japanese patients with metastatic colorectal cancer: results of a post-marketing surveillance
Authors: Watanabe Jun , Terazawa Tetsuji , Yamane Shiho , Kazama Hirotaka , Uetake Hiroyuki , Yoshino Takayuki
Published: October 2022

Background

Safety and effectiveness of aflibercept with 5‐fluorouracil/levofolinate/irinotecan have not been reported in Japanese patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) in a real-world clinical setting.

Methods

This post-marketing surveillance enrolled patients with un-resectable advanced or recurrent mCRC who were prescribed aflibercept from December 2017 to June 2019 in Japan. Data, collected up to 1 year from starting treatment, included patient background, safety, and effectiveness assessed by Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) 1.1 or physician’s evaluation.

Results

Of 261 patients registered from 64 centers, 235 [53.2% male with a median age of 67 years (range 28–84)] received treatment and were included in the safety analysis. Aflibercept was received at 1st, 2nd, and ≥ 3rd line in 1.3%, 48.1%, and 50.2% of patients, respectively. Median number of treatment cycles was 6 (range 1–22) and relative dose intensity was 75.4% (range 14.3–101.8%). Adverse events (all grades) were reported in 88.5% of patients, including neutropenia (34.5%), proteinuria (24.7%), hypertension (17.0%), diarrhea (17.0%), and decreased appetite (15.3%). Three treatment-related deaths occurred by perforation of the digestive tract, pneumonia and gastrointestinal bleeding, and sudden death. The effectiveness analysis included 198 patients. Overall response rate was 6.1% (1st line, 0%; 2nd line, 10.1%; ≥ 3rd line, 2.1%) and disease control rate was 47.5% (1st line, 100%; 2nd line, 58.6%; ≥ 3rd line, 34.4%).

Conclusion

No new risks of aflibercept were identified in real clinical practice. Effectiveness in patients at the 2nd line was consistent with previous reports.
The role of cryptocurrencies in predicting oil prices pre and during COVID-19 pandemic using machine learning
Authors: Ibrahim Bassam A. , Elamer Ahmed A. , Abdou Hussein A.
Published: October 2022

This study aims to explore the role of cryptocurrencies and the US dollar in predicting oil prices pre and during COVID-19 pandemic. The study uses three machine learning models (i.e., Support vector machines, Multilayer Perceptron Neural Networks and Generalized regression neural networks (GRNN)) over the period from January 1, 2018, to July 5, 2021. Our results are threefold. First, our results indicate Bitcoin is the most influential in predicting oil prices during the bear and bull oil market before COVID-19 and during the downtrend during COVID-19. Second, COVID-19 variables became the most influential during the uptrend, especially the number of death cases. Third, our results also suggest that the most accurate model to predict the price of oil under the conditions of uncertainty that prevailed in the world during the bear and bull prices in the wake of COVID-19 is GRNN. Though the best prediction model under normal conditions before COVID-19 during an uptrend is SVM and during a downtrend is GRNN. Our results provide crucial evidence for investors, academics and policymakers, especially during global uncertainties.
Efficiently exploring for human robot interaction: partially observable Poisson processes
Authors: Jovan Ferdian , Tomy Milan , Hawes Nick , Wyatt Jeremy
Published: October 2022

Consider a mobile robot exploring an office building with the aim of observing as much human activity as possible over several days. It must learn where and when people are to be found, count the observed activities, and revisit popular places at the right time. In this paper we present a series of Bayesian estimators for the levels of human activity that improve on simple counting. We then show how these estimators can be used to drive efficient exploration for human activities. The estimators arise from modelling the human activity counts as a partially observable Poisson process (POPP). This paper presents novel extensions to POPP for the following cases: (i) the robot’s sensors are correlated, (ii) the robot’s sensor model, itself built from data, is also unreliable, (iii) both are combined. It also combines the resulting Bayesian estimators with a simple, but effective solution to the exploration-exploitation trade-off faced by the robot in a real deployment. A series of 15 day robot deployments show how our approach boosts the number of human activities observed by 70% relative to a baseline and produces more accurate estimates of the level of human activity in each place and time.
Non-affine Fiber Reorientation in Finite Inelasticity
Authors: Ciambella Jacopo , Nardinocchi Paola
Published: October 2022

This paper introduces a model for the mechanical response of anisotropic soft materials undergoing large inelastic deformations. The material is considered made by a isotropic matrix with embedded fibers, each component having its own relaxation dynamics. The constitutive equations are provided in terms of the free energy density and the dissipation density, which are both required to be thermodynamically consistent and structural frame-indifferent, i.e., independent of a rotation overimposed on the intermediate natural state of both matrix and fibers. This is in contrast to many of the currently used anisotropic inelastic models, which do not deal with the lack of uniqueness of the intermediate state. This issue is thoroughly discussed and in terms of two possible choices satisfying structural-frame indifference and leading to different flow rules of the inelastic processes. It is shown that different models from the literature can be incorporated in the proposed formulation including anisotropic viscoelasticity and growth.
A Recollection of Jerry Ericksen
Authors: Davini Cesare
Published: October 2022

This brief note is a personal recollection of the human and scientific traits of a great figure of the twentieth century’s continuum mechanics.
Pattern Labelling of Business Communication Data
Authors: Kaya Muhammed-Fatih
Published: October 2022

Systematic pattern recognition as well as the corresponding description of determined patterns entail numerous challenges in the application context of high-dimensional communication data. These can cause increased effort, especially with regard to machine-based processing concerning the determination of regularities in underlying datasets. Due to the increased expansion of dimensions in multidimensional data spaces, determined patterns are no longer interpretable by humans. Taking these challenges into account, this paper investigates to what extent pre-defined communication patterns can be interpreted for the application area of high-dimensional business communication data. An analytical perspective is considered by taking into account a holistic research approach and by subsequently applying selected Machine Learning methods from Association Rule Discovery, Topic Modelling and Decision Trees with regard to the overall goal of semi-automated pattern labelling. The results show that meaningful descriptions can be derived for the interpretation of pre-defined patterns.