bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Risk of non‐colorectal cancer‐related death in elderly patients with the disease: A comparison of five preoperative risk assessment indices
Authors: Yasui Kohei , Shida Dai , Ahiko Yuka , Takamizawa Yasuyuki , Moritani Konosuke , Tsukamoto Shunsuke , Kanemitsu Yukihide 
Published: July 2022

AbstractBackgroundA considerable number of elderly patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) die of non‐CRC‐related causes. The Controlling Nutritional Status (CONUT) score, American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status classification, Charlson Comorbidity Index, National Institute on Aging, and National Cancer Institute Comorbidity Index, and Adult Comorbidity Evaluation‐27 score are all known predictors of survival in patients with CRC. However, the utility of these indices for predicting non‐CRC‐related death in elderly CRC patients is not known.MethodsThe study population comprised 364 patients aged 80 years or more who received curative resection for stage I–III CRC between 2000 and 2016. The association of each index with non‐CRC‐related death was compared by competing‐risks analysis such as the cumulative incidence function and proportional subdistribution hazards regression analysis as well as time‐dependent receiver‐operating characteristic (ROC) analysis.ResultsThere were 85 deaths (40 CRC‐related and 45 non‐CRC‐related) during a median observation period of 53.2 months. Cumulative incidence function analysis identified CONUT score as the most suitable for risk stratification for non‐CRC‐related death. In proportional subdistribution hazards regression, risk of non‐CRC‐related death increased significantly as CONUT score worsened (2/3/4 vs. 0/1, hazard ratio 1.73, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.91–3.15; ≥5 vs. 2/3/4, hazard ratio 2.71, 95% CI 1.08–6.81). Time‐dependent ROC curve analysis showed that CONUT score were consistently superior to other indices during the 5‐year observation period.ConclusionsThe majority of deaths in elderly patients with CRC were not CRC‐related. CONUT score was the most useful predictor of non‐CRC‐related death in these patients.
Learning based versus heuristic based: A comparative analysis of visual saliency prediction in immersive virtual reality
Authors: Askin Mehmet Bahadir , Celikcan Ufuk 
Published: July 2022

AbstractWhile visual saliency has been used for various purposes in virtual reality (VR), the efforts to properly understand the saliency mechanism in VR remain insufficient. In this paper, we present an extensive comparative analysis of learning‐based and heuristic‐based approaches to visual saliency prediction in immersive VR experienced using head‐mounted‐displays with a particular focus on the contribution of the depth cue. To this end, we use three learning‐based RGB‐D image saliency detection methods and two heuristic‐based RGB‐D image saliency detection methods on a VR dataset curated from three distinct virtual environments under two‐dimensional and three‐dimensional viewing conditions. Additionally, we extend the analysis by including a heuristic‐based RGB video saliency detection method and its depth‐infused version. The results acquired using these seven methods reveal the superiority of the learning‐based RGB‐D image saliency prediction methods in VR and validate the importance of the depth cue in the saliency prediction of virtual environments.
Giant multinodular goiter for 24 years; hidden in a village in Western Nepal
Authors: Sigdel Brihaspati , Neupane Bhima , Pokhrel Amrit , Nepali Prakash 
Published: July 2022

AbstractHere, we present the case of a giant multinodular goiter with retrosternal extension in an old lady with dyspnea for 3 months. The patient was treated with microscopic‐assisted total thyroidectomy without any postoperative complications.
Complete laryngotracheal separation after a clothesline‐type injury: A case report
Authors: Ciburaite Gintare , Kaseta Marius 
Published: July 2022

AbstractThis case report presents management of a complete laryngotracheal separation after a ‘clothesline’ type injury. Laryngeal trauma to some extent was suspected but the diagnosis was confirmed after massive subcutaneous emphysema occurred after seemingly successful intubation. The airway was secured with a tracheostomy and secondary laryngotracheal anastomosis was done.
Non‐traumatic myositis ossificans circumscripta in the anterior abdominal wall of a seven‐year‐old Ugandan child: A case report
Authors: Isse Hamdi Mohamed , Sereke Senai Goitom , Vincent Mboizi , Zeridah Muyinda 
Published: July 2022

AbstractMyositis ossificans circumscripta (MOC) is a benign and self‐limiting heterotopic ossification in the subcutaneous fat, tendons, muscles, and nerves. It is commonly due to trauma and is frequently encountered in the arm, shoulder, thigh, and hand which are prone to trauma. Non‐traumatic MOC arising from the abdominal muscles is extremely rare. We report a case of 7‐year‐old male child with a three‐year history of progressive painless abdominal swelling in the left hypochondria region with no history of associated trauma. CT scan of the abdomen showed a well‐defined hyperdense mass in the left external oblique muscle. Histological diagnosis confirmed myositis ossificans of the external oblique muscle. The mass was removed surgically with no immediate or late complications.
Noninvasive treatment of two deeply invasive cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas of the midface located close to the orbits with intensity‐modulated arc therapy: A case report
Authors: Gruber Isabella , Weidner Karin , Koelbl Oliver 
Published: July 2022

AbstractDefinitive radiotherapy is a curative and noninvasive treatment modality for cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas of the midface when surgery has an impact on function and cosmetics. Volumetric modulated arc therapy provides optimal dose coverage for complex‐shaped tumors without compromising adjacent organs at risk.
Synergistic Coupling of Li6.4La3Zr1.4Ta0.6O12 and Fluoroethylene Carbonate Boosts Electrochemical Performances of Poly(Ethylene Oxide)‐Based All‐Solid‐State Lithium Batteries
Authors: Zhang Lu , Wang Zhitao , Zhou Hu , Li Xiaogang , Liu Qian , Wang Ping , Yuan Aihua 
Published: July 2022

AbstractAll‐solid‐state lithium batteries (ASSLBs) with poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)‐based composites solid‐state electrolytes have received much attention owing to their higher energy density and better safety compared with conventional liquid electrolytes. However, ASSLBs with PEO‐based solid‐state electrolytes generally suffer from severe capacity degradation and interface transfer obstacles during the charge/discharge process. In this work, fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC) is employed as a reducing additive to in‐situ form LiF‐rich and stable solid‐state electrolyte interface (SEI). Benefiting from the integrated advantages of Li6.4La3Zr1.4Ta0.6O12 (LLZTO) and FEC binary additives, the number of lithium‐ion transference increases to 0.48, which facilitates the stable cycling of Li||Li symmetrical batteries over 900 h at 0.1 mA cm−2. The synergistic interplay of LLZTO and FEC constructs a stable LiF‐rich SEI film, effectively addressing the interfacial problems caused by lithium dendrites and promoting the transport of Li ions. Therefore, the high ionic conductivity and self‐healing anode‐electrolyte interface are achieved. This study provides a facile and economical strategy to solve the problem of the lithium‐electrolyte interface. It is of great scientific significance for the development of dendrite‐free solid‐state lithium metal batteries.
Mechanistic Insights about the Ligand‐Enabled Oxy‐arylation/vinylation of Alkenes via Au(I)/Au(III) Catalysis
Authors: Rigoulet Mathilde , Miqueu Karinne , Bourissou Didier 
Published: July 2022

AbstractThe mechanism of oxy‐arylation/vinylation of alkenes catalyzed by the (MeDalphos)AuCl complex was comprehensively investigated by DFT. (P,N)Au(Ph)2+and (P,N)Au(vinyl)2+are key intermediates accounting for the activation of the alkenols and for their cyclization by outer‐sphere nucleophilic attack of oxygen. The 5‐exoand 6‐endopaths have been computed and compared, reproducing the peculiar regioselectivity difference observed experimentally between 4‐penten‐1‐ol, (E) and (Z)‐4‐hexen‐1‐ols. Examining the way the alkenol coordinates to gold (more η2or η1) can offer, in some cases, a simple way to predict the favored path of cyclization.
Photostable NIR‐II Pigments from Extended Rylenecarboximides
Authors: Wu Ze‐Hua , Reichert Hans , Reichelt Helmut , Basché Thomas , Müllen Klaus 
Published: July 2022

AbstractA series of near‐infrared (NIR) organic absorbers, named FNs and FPs, have been obtained with absorption maxima from 870 nm to 1100 nm and thus falling into the attractive second near‐infrared region (NIR‐II). The synthesis of their extended aromatic cores utilized an initial aryl‐amination between 4‐aminonaphthalene‐1,8‐dicarboximide (NMI‐NH2) or 9‐aminoperylene‐3,4‐dicarboximide (PMI‐NH2) with chloro‐substituted 9,10‐anthraquinones followed by a novel base‐induced cyclodehydrogenation. A NIR‐II pigment, compound FPP, was obtained through de‐alkylation of a soluble precursor. The synthesis of this photostable pigment is high‐yielding and avoids column chromatographic purification which is important for many applications.
Pharmacokinetic Comparison of Favipiravir Oral Solution and Tablet Formulations in Healthy Thai Volunteers
Authors: Siripongboonsitti Taweegrit , Ungtrakul Teerapat , Watanapokasin Natcha , Timsri Pornuma , Wongpakdee Kawinthida , Wattanasin Parin , Pavitrapok Chiravi , Khunvichai Ariya , Jamnongtanachot Promporn , Mueannoom Wunlapa , Kitpoka Tanya , Arjharn Weena , Mahanonda Nithi 
Published: July 2022

AbstractThis study compared the pharmacokinetics and safety of favipiravir oral solution with those of tablet formulations, which were agents repurposed to treat nonsevere coronavirus disease 2019 in Thailand. In an open‐label, single‐dose, randomized, crossover study, 24 healthy subjects under fasting conditions were randomly assigned to a single dose of 200 mg of favipiravir, either as an oral solution of 200 mg/15 mL (test product) or a tablet (reference product), separated by a 7‐day washout period. Fifteen plasma samples were collected over 12 hours after drug administration. Plasma favipiravir levels were quantified using in‐house developed ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. The test/reference geometric mean ratio along with 90%CI for the maximum plasma concentration, area under the concentration‐time curve (AUC) to the time of the last quantifiable concentration, and AUC after single‐dose administration, extrapolated to infinity were 115.3% (90%CI, 107.7%‐123.3%), 100.4% (90%CI, 96.9%‐104.0%), and 100.4% (90%CI, 96.8%‐104.2%), respectively. These results were within the predefined acceptance criteria for bioequivalence (80.0%‐125.0%). No adverse events were observed in either group. The oral solution formulation could offer the advantage of easier swallowing in broader patient groups.
Acid Rain and Flue Gas: Quantum Chemical Hydrolysis of NO2
Authors: Menezes Filipe , Popowicz Grzegorz Maria 
Published: July 2022

AbstractDespite decades of efforts, much is still unknown about the hydrolysis of nitrogen dioxide (NO2), a reaction associated with the formation of acid rain. From the experimental point of view, quantitative analyses are hard, and without pH control the products decompose to some reagents. We resort to high‐level quantum chemistry to compute Gibbs energies for a network of reactions relevant to the hydrolysis of NO2. With COSMO‐RS solvation corrections we calculate temperature dependent thermodynamic data in liquid water. Using the computed reaction energies, we determine equilibrium concentrations for a gas‐liquid system at controlled pH. For different temperatures and initial concentrations of the different species, we observe that nitrogen dioxide should be fully converted to nitric and nitrous acid. The thermodynamic data in this work can have a potential major impact for several industries with regards to the understanding of atmospheric chemistry and in the reduction of anthropomorphic pollution.
Linked color imaging improves the diagnostic accuracy of eosinophilic esophagitis
Authors: Abe Yasuhiko , Sasaki Yu , Yagi Makoto , Mizumoto Naoko , Onozato Yusuke , Kon Takashi , Shoji Masakuni , Sakuta Kazuhiro , Sakai Takayuki , Umehara Matsuki , Ito Minami , Nakamura Shuhei , Tsuchida Hidemoto , Ueno Yoshiyuki 
Published: July 2022

AbstractObjectivesTo assess the usefulness of linked color imaging (LCI), a recently developed image‐enhanced endoscopy technique, in the endoscopic diagnosis of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE).MethodsThirty white light images (WLIs) and 30 WLI+LCI images collected from patients with and without EoE were randomly and blindly reviewed by 10 endoscopists, including four experts (Exs) and six non‐Exs. Edema, ring, exudate furrows, and strictures were rated on the adjusted EoE endoscopic reference score; the diagnosis of EoE was assessed. Using the kappa value, inter‐ and intra‐observer agreements were analyzed among endoscopists.ResultsWLI+LCI images had a higher diagnostic accuracy for EoE than WLIs (0.85 vs. 0.70, respectively), especially in non‐Exs or endoscopists with no experience with EoE patients. Inter‐observer agreement for WLI+LCI images statistically surpassed WLIs for furrows (kappa, 0.73 vs. 0.67, respectively; p = 0.0013), stricture (kappa, 0.51 vs. 0.39, respectively; p = 0.0072), and diagnosis (kappa, 0.67 vs. 0.57, respectively; p < 0.0001) of EoE. The increase in inter‐observer agreement in WLI+LCI images allowed for a reduction in the differences between the Exs and non‐Ex endoscopists. Intra‐observer agreement for WLI+LCI images surpassed WLIs for a ring (kappa, 0.62 vs. 0.43, p = 0.0052), and a similar trend was found in exudates, furrows, and diagnosis irrespective of the Exs or non‐Exs.ConclusionsLCI can contribute to the improvement of the endoscopic diagnosis for EoE, with “moderate” to “substantial” consistency, by enhancing the visibility of abnormal findings, leading to reduced diagnostic disparities among endoscopists.
Comparative assessment of electronic nicotine delivery systems aerosol and cigarette smoke on endothelial cell migration: The Replica Project
Authors: Caruso Massimo , Emma Rosalia , Distefano Alfio , Rust Sonja , Poulas Konstantinos , Giordano Antonio , Volarevic Vladislav , Mesiakaris Konstantinos , Boffo Silvia , Arsenijevic Aleksandar , Karanasios Georgios , Pulvirenti Roberta , Ilic Aleksandar , Canciello Angelo , Zuccarello Pietro , Ferrante Margherita , Polosa Riccardo , Li Volti Giovanni 
Published: July 2022

AbstractCigarette smoking is associated with impairment of repair mechanisms necessary for vascular endothelium homeostasis. Reducing the exposure to smoke toxicants may result in the mitigation of the harmful effect on the endothelium and cardiovascular disease development. Previous investigations evaluated in vitro the effect of electronic cigarette (EC) compared with cigarette smoke demonstrating a significant reduction in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) migration inhibition following EC aerosol exposure. In the present study, we replicated one of these studies, evaluating the effects of cigarette smoke on endothelial cell migration compared with aerosol from EC and heated tobacco products (HTPs). We performed an in vitro scratch wound assay on endothelial cells with a multi‐center approach (ring‐study) to verify the robustness and reliability of the results obtained in the replicated study, also testing the effect of aerosol from two HTPs on endothelial cells. Consistently with the original study, we observed a substantial reduction of the effects of aerosol from EC and HTPs on endothelial cell migration compared with cigarette smoke. While cigarette smoke reduced endothelial wound healing ability already at low concentrations (12.5%) and in a concentration‐dependent manner, EC and HTPs aerosol showed no effect on endothelial cells until 80%–100% concentrations. In conclusion, our study further confirms the importance of EC and tobacco heated products as a possible harm reduction strategy for cardiovascular diseases development in smokers.
Effect of cathode operation parameters on the performance of proton exchange membrane fuel cell with curved wing vortex generator by response surface method
Authors: Yang Laishun , Shi Luhao , Cui Weiwei , Xu Yichao , Mao Jianghai , Li Yongtong , Jiang Dongfang , Yue Guangxi 
Published: July 2022

AbstractWith the increasing popularity of fuel cells, improving their power density and the fuel cell system efficiency has become very topical. This study used the curved wing vortex generator to generate a secondary flow in the cathode flow channel to improve the performance of the proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC). The curved wing's structure and arrangement effects on the performance of fuel cells were numerically simulated. Next, to summarize the combined effects of cathode operating conditions on the performance of PEMFC, this study used the response surface method to assess the influence of operating conditions variables on the performance target of PEMFC with curved wings. The combined effects of cathode operating conditions, namely temperature, pressure, reactant stoichiometry, and relative humidity, on the system efficiency and power density of the fuel cell system were investigated. The predictive correlations between these variables were also fitted. The installation of curved wings promoted the diffusion of reactants, as well as improved the uniformity of temperature distribution and the discharge of liquid water in the fuel cell, enhancing its overall performance. Among the four operating parameters under study, the most significant effect on the fuel cell power density was provided by the temperature, followed by pressure, humidity, and reactant stoichiometry. The fuel cell efficiency was the most significantly improved by increasing the relative humidity, while temperature increase had the second‐best impact, followed by pressure, and reactant stoichiometry.
Gender differentials in value addition and lean season market participation in the grasshopper value chain in Uganda
Authors: Donkor Emmanuel , Mbeche Robert , Mithöfer Dagmar 
Published: July 2022

AbstractGender gaps in agrifood value chains are manifested in differential access to and control of productive resources, upgrading activities, market participation, farm productivity and food security among women and men. These gender gaps threaten economic development in sub‐Saharan Africa. With low‐resource requirements, edible insects have emerged as a promising agrifood value chain with income opportunities for women and men. However, it is not clear how gender gaps are manifested in the participation in value addition and lean season market of the edible insect value chain with a potential to improve household welfare. In this paper, we analyse the gender gaps of retailers' participation in value addition and lean season market in the grasshopper value chain in Uganda. Multivariate probit and tobit models are used in the empirical analyses. We find that women are 15% more likely to participate in primary value addition. However, there are no gender gaps in the participation in secondary value addition and the lean season market. The study also shows that grasshopper business is an important source of income for many retailers. Therefore, the development of the grasshopper value chain, especially the aspects of value addition and lean season market, could contribute to gender equality and improvement of livelihoods of women and men.
Safety Concerns for the Management of End‐of‐Life Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Chen Zhuowen , Yildizbasi Abdullah , Wang Yan , Sarkis Joseph 
Published: July 2022

AbstractLithium‐ion battery (LIB) usage is growing dramatically worldwide. Relatedly, there is a need for the management of end‐of‐life (EOL) LIBs. EOL requires closed‐loop systems and supply chains. Although many studies related to managing EOL in closed‐loop supply chains exist, one especially pernicious issue is overlooked—safety. This study seeks to address this major safety oversight for EOL LIBs using closed‐loop supply chains that are critical to a larger circular economy environment. The evaluation is completed along a technology–organization–environment (TOE) framework; potential research directions for mitigating safety issues are part of the analysis of this study. Specific and general research questions pertaining to secure management of EOL LIBs are put forward to help advance academic research. Practical concerns are also described for policymakers and organizations. This study reveals implications of these questions for the intersection of materials science, supply chain management, and fire‐protection engineering.
Verification on the mode of moisture transfer in the vadose zone of thick loess
Authors: Wang Chenxing , Li Tonglu , Li Ping , Wang Yu , Li Hua , Xi Yu 
Published: July 2022

AbstractPrecipitation is the only source of groundwater recharge in the Chinese loess region. However, rainfall has been the main driver of geological disasters and engineering challenges in China, such as landslides, slope collapse and sinking of foundations. The roles of preferential flow and piston flow in moisture transfer in the thick loess vadose zone remain controversial. This study used a 100‐m thick loess shaft to monitor soil moisture content and soil temperature over 5 years, whereas climate indices were monitored on the Earth surface. The soil water characteristic curves and hydraulic conductivity function of the loess and the palaeosol collected in the profile were measured in a laboratory. The soil profile moisture transfer process was simulated based on the climatic boundary conditions and measured hydraulic parameters. The monitored and simulated results suggest that loess moisture transfer is dominated by piston flow. The thick loess vadose zone above the groundwater level could be divided into two sub‐zones, namely the active and steady zones. The active zone has a thickness of ~7 m and shows a direct response to climate change, with soil moisture content regulated by rainfall infiltration, evaporation and transpiration and soil moisture moving as transient flow. Although preferential flow can move in the active zone along joints, fissures and holes when water accumulates in the lower ground during heavy rainfall, piston flow remains the main mode of water movement. The steady zone has a thickness of <7 m and is above the groundwater level. Soil moisture content and soil temperature in the steady zone show temporal stability and soil moisture moves as a steady flow. Piston flow is the only mode of water movement in the steady zone. Since percolation velocity in the steady zone is estimated to be 73.3 mm/year, 1330 years of rainfall infiltration through the 97.5 m thick vadose zone would be required to recharge groundwater.