bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Uniform convergence rates for nonparametric estimators smoothed by the beta kernel
Authors: Hirukawa Masayuki , Murtazashvili Irina , Prokhorov Artem 
Published: January 2022

AbstractThis paper provides a set of uniform consistency results with rates for nonparametric density and regression estimators smoothed by the beta kernel having support on the unit interval. Weak and strong uniform convergence is explored on the basis of expanding compact sets and general sequences of smoothing parameters. The results in this paper are useful for asymptotic analysis of two‐step semiparametric estimation using a first‐step kernel estimate as a plug‐in. We provide simulations and a real data example illustrating attractive properties of the estimators.
Minimally invasive skin sampling and transcriptome analysis using microneedles for skin type biomarker research
Authors: Kim Seo Hyeong , Kim Ji Hye , Lee Sung Jae , Jung Min Sook , Jeong Do Hyeon , Lee Kwang Hoon 
Published: January 2022

AbstractBackgroundMinimally invasive skin sampling is used in various fields. In this study, we examined whether it was possible to obtain skin specimens using biocompatible microneedles composed of sodium hyaluronate and performed transcriptome analysis.Materials and methodsThirty‐three subjects with different skin conditions, such as skin aging, skin hydration, skin pigmentation, oily skin and sensitive skin, were recruited. Skin types were evaluated based on age, non‐invasive measurement devices, 10% lactic acid stinging test and visual assessment; the skin specimens were sampled from the face using microneedles. Total RNA was extracted, and microarray was performed. Correlations between various biomarkers and skin condition parameters were analysed.ResultsSeveral skin‐type biomarkers are correlated with age, non‐invasive device measurements, LAST score and visual assessment of acne lesions. Representatively, COL1A1 (Collagen type 1 alpha 1 chain), FN1 (Fibronectin 1) and PINK1 (PTEN‐induced putative kinase protein 1) for skin aging, FLG (Filaggrin), KLF4 (Kruppel‐like factor 4) and LOR (Loricrin) for skin hydration, GPNMB (Glycoprotein non‐metastatic melanoma protein B), MLANA (Melan‐A) and TYR (Tyrosinase) for skin pigmentation, IGF1 (insulin‐like growth factor‐1), MPZL3 (Myelin protein zero like 3) and AQP3 (Aquaporin 3) for oily skin and PGF (placental growth factor), CYR61 (cysteine‐rich angiogenic inducer 61), RBP4 (retinol‐binding protein 4), TAC1 (Tachykinin precursor 1), CAMP (Cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide), MMP9 (Matrix metallopeptidase 9), MMP3, MMP12 and CCR1 (C‐C motif chemokine receptor 1) for sensitive skin.ConclusionMicroneedle skin sampling is a new and minimally invasive option for transcriptome analysis of human skin and can be applied for diagnosis and treatment efficacy evaluation, as well as skin type classification.
Effect of convalescent plasma as complementary treatment in patients with moderate COVID‐19 infection
Authors: Baldeón Manuel E. , Maldonado Augusto , Ochoa‐Andrade Miguel , Largo Carolina , Pesantez Mónica , Herdoiza Marco , Granja Gerardo , Bonifaz Marco , Espejo Hugo , Mora Francisco , Abril‐López Patricio , Armijo Lady Karen Robles , Pacheco Verónica , Salazar Rafael , Reinthaller Steffy , Zertuche Federico , Fornasini Marco 
Published: January 2022

AbstractIntroductionSouth America is one of the regions most affected by the COVID‐19 pandemic. Specific and affordable treatments are needed to treat SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Evidence regarding the use of convalescent plasma in COVID‐19 patients is still limited. We compared the safety and efficacy of COVID‐19‐convalescent plasma administration as a complement to standard treatment in the early management of patients with moderate SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.MethodsWe carried out a random double blinded, placebo‐controlled trial that compared standard treatment plus convalescent plasma (CP) or plus non‐convalescent plasma in the management of COVID‐19 patients. The main outcome was survival and secondary endpoints included: length of hospitalisation (LOH), days from treatment to discharge, time to clinical improvement or death within a 28‐day period, and adverse reactions to treatment.ResultsAdministration of CP with antibodies against SARS‐CoV‐2 did not affect patient survival, RR = 1.003, 95% CI (0.3938, 2.555). These results led to terminate the RCT prematurely. However, early treatment of COVID‐19 patients with CP tended to decrease the LOH while the delay in CP treatment was associated with longer hospitalisation. In addition, delay in CP treatment negatively affected the recovery of the respiratory rate.ConclusionUse of CP for the treatment of COVID‐19 patients is safe and its early use can decrease the LOH and improve respiratory function. Early administration of antibody‐rich CP could contribute to decrease the negative impact of COVID‐19 pandemic in patients with impaired immune response.
Incidence of and risk factors for surgical site infection following canine limb amputation
Authors: Billas Alison R. , Grimes Janet A. , Hollenbeck Danielle L. , Dickerson Vanna M. , Wallace Mandy L. , Schmiedt Chad W. 
Published: January 2022

AbstractObjectiveTo determine the incidence of and risk factors for surgical site infection (SSI) following canine thoracic and pelvic limb amputations.Study designRetrospective, multicenter study.AnimalsDogs (n = 248).MethodsMedical records were reviewed for preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative variables including indication for amputation, amputation type, method of muscle transection, duration of surgery and anesthesia, and wound classification. Follow up was ≥30 days or until SSI development. Logistic regression and Fisher's exact tests were used to compare SSI incidence to variables of interest.ResultsThe incidence of SSI was 12.5% for all procedures and 10.9% for clean procedures. Factors increasing odds of SSI were muscle transection with a bipolar vessel sealing device (P = .023 for all procedures, P = .025 for clean procedures), procedure classified as other than clean (P = .003), and indication for amputation of bacterial infection (P = .041) or traumatic injury (P = .003) compared to neoplasia.ConclusionUse of bipolar vessel sealing devices for muscle transection increased the odds of developing an SSI whereas use of electrosurgery and/or sharp transection did not. Dogs with surgical sites that were other than clean, or with bacterial infection and/or traumatic injury were also at increased odds of SSI.Clinical significanceUse of electrosurgery or sharp transection for muscle transection should be considered rather than use of bipolar vessel sealing devices to decrease odds of SSI in dogs undergoing limb amputation. Further studies across a variety of procedures are needed to validate these findings given the increasing popularity of these devices in veterinary medicine.
An intrinsic link to an extrinsic cause of cardiac xenograft growth after xenotransplantation
Authors: Goerlich Corbin E. , Singh Avneesh , Treffalls John A. , Griffith Bartley , Ayares David , Mohiuddin Muhammad M. 
Published: January 2022

AbstractPost‐transplantation cardiac xenograft growth in an orthotopic pig to baboon model is a life‐limiting phenomenon that is poorly understood. Possible causes of growth include both intrinsic and extrinsic etiologies. Extrinsic causes are thought to be attributed to maladaptive hypertrophy as a result of increased mean arterial pressure experienced by the cardiac xenograft after transplantation. Intrinsic causes are thought to be a result of discordant growth between pig xenografts and recipients. This results in intrinsic xenograft growth that parallels the donor and continues in a recipient in which growth is relatively minimal, controlled in part by the growth hormone receptor, IGF‐1 axis. Recently, Zaman, et al. published a study titled, “Selective loss of resident macrophage‐derived insulin‐like growth factor‐1 abolishes adaptive cardiac growth to stress,” in Immunity, Volume 54; Issue 9, pp. 2057–2071. They demonstrated that insulin growth factor‐secreting resident macrophages that sense hypertensive stress are a mechanistic link to hypertension and maladaptive hypertrophy in the setting of hypertension. While notable in its own right, we comment on how this work may shed light on a new underlying mechanism for the use of growth hormone receptor knockout (GHRKO) pig donors and its role in addressing post‐transplantation xenograft growth. We hypothesize that GHRKO pig donors contain syngeneic resident cardiac macrophages that abrogate IGF‐1 mediated maladaptive hypertrophy from hypertension. Futures studies in post‐transplantation cardiac xenotransplantation growth should examine this mechanism as a potential contributor.
Inducing Vascular Grammars for Anomaly Classification in Brain Angiograms
Authors: Whiting Mark E. , Mettenburg Joseph , Novelli Enrico M. , Santini Tales , Martins Tiago , Ibrahim Tamer S. , LeDuc Philip R. , Cagan Jonathan 
Published: January 2022

AbstractAs machine learning is used to make strides in medical diagnostics, few methods provide heuristics from which human doctors can learn directly. This work introduces a method for leveraging human observable structures, such as macroscale vascular formations, for producing assessments of medical conditions with relatively few training cases, and uncovering patterns that are potential diagnostic aids. The approach draws on shape grammars, a rule-based technique, pioneered in design and architecture, and accelerated through a recursive subgraph mining algorithm. The distribution of rule instances in the data from which they are induced is then used as an intermediary representation enabling common classification and anomaly detection approaches to identify indicative rules with relatively small data sets. The method is applied to seven-tesla time-of-flight angiography MRI (n = 54) of human brain vasculature. The data were segmented and induced to generate representative grammar rules. Ensembles of rules were isolated to implicate vascular conditions reliably. This application demonstrates the power of automated structured intermediary representations for assessing nuanced biological form relationships, and the strength of shape grammars, in particular for identifying indicative patterns in complex vascular networks.
Effect of Nozzle Outlet Type on the Flow Field Velocity and Impact Pressure of High-Pressure Water Jet Peening
Authors: Zheng Hong-Xiang , Luo Yun , Zang Jing-Yu , Zhang Qian 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Water jet peening can effectively improve the fatigue strength of metal materials, and the outlet shape of nozzle greatly affects the effect of water jet peening. In this paper, the effects of nozzle outlet shape on water jet velocity and impact pressure are studied by numerical simulation, and the jet velocity and dynamic pressure for different standoff distances are also discussed. The results show that the water jets of square, circular, and triangular nozzles are highly concentrated, and the water jet of elliptical nozzles is the most divergent. The axial velocity attenuation of the square nozzle along the axis is slower than that of the other three nozzles. The water axial velocity of the elliptical nozzle attenuates fastest, and the length of the core segment of the water jet is the smallest. Within a certain axial distance, the dynamic pressure area in the central area of the elliptical water jet is obviously larger than that of the other three nozzles, and the effective treatment range is large, which is more suitable for the welding surface strengthening operation.
Role of Three-Dimensional Swirl in Forced Convection Heat Transfer Enhancement in Wavy-Plate-Fin Channels
Authors: Shi Dantong , Lin Kuan-Ting , Jog Milind A. , Manglik Raj M. 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
The influence of wall-corrugation-induced swirl flow on enhanced forced convection in wavy-plate-fin cores has been investigated. Three-dimensional computational simulations were carried out for steady-state periodically developed air flow (Pr ∼ 0.71; 50 ≤ Re ≤ 4000) with channel walls subject to constant-uniform temperature conditions. The recirculation that develops in the wall troughs and grows to have an axially helical character is scaled by the Swirl number Sw. As Sw increases with higher flowrate and/or corrugation severity, tornado-shaped vortices appear in the wave trough region midway of the interfin channel height, then extend longitudinally to encompass majority of the flow channel. The local wall-shear and heat transfer coefficient variations indicate that boundary-layer thinning upstream of the wave peak aids in intensifying momentum and heat transfer. However, the flow recirculation in wall trough impedes heat transfer at low Sw due to flow stagnation but promotes it at high Sw because of the vortices-induced augmented fluid mixing. The effects of this secondary flow are quantified by Φf(or j), which is seen to increase log-linearly as fin corrugation aspect ratio γ and/or fin spacing ratio ζ increases; the influence of cross section aspect ratio α is marginal. Moreover, the pressure drag penalty due to swirl critically affects overall pressure loss, and its proportion remains nearly constant when α varies, but grows as Sw, γ, and/or ζ increases and can be as much as 80% of the total pressure drop.
Processing Sunshine Duration Measurements for the Assessment of Solar Radiation in Climatic Regions of the Central African Republic
Authors: Chara-Dackou Venant Sorel , Njomo Donatien , Hassane Babikir Mahamat , Mbouombouo Ibrahim Ngapouth , Pofoura Gboulie Sidica Aicha , Tchinda René 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
The objectives of this work carried out in the Central African Republic are to propose new correlations between the components of solar radiation and the sunshine duration on a horizontal surface on the ground, and then to make an evaluation of the solar potential in the cities of Bambari, Birao, and Bangui. Polynomial regression models were used and their parameters were estimated by the ordinary least-squares method. A statistical evaluation allowed us to compare the performance of the models. The best correlations are then used to estimate the global and diffuse radiation. In the city of Birao, the estimated global radiation is around 6 kW h/m2 j and the diffuse radiation is around 2 kW h/m2 j; in Bambari, the global radiation is around 5.4 kW h/m2 j and the diffuse is around 2.3 kW h/m2 j; in Bangui, the global radiation is around 5 kW h/m2 j and the diffuse radiation is around 2.3 kW h/m2 j. The potential solar in all these regions is very favorable for small- and large-scale solar photovoltaic applications.
Analysis of Swirl Number Effects on Effusion Flow Behavior Using Time-Resolved Particle Image Velocimetry
Authors: Lenzi Tommaso , Picchi Alessio , Andreini Antonio , Facchini Bruno 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
The analysis of the interaction between the swirling and cooling flows, promoted by the liner film cooling system, is a fundamental task for the design of turbine combustion chambers since it influences different aspects such as emissions and cooling capability. In particular, high turbulence values, flow instabilities, and tangential velocity components induced by the swirling flow deeply affect the behavior of effusion cooling jets, demanding for dedicated time-resolved near-wall experimental analysis. The experimental setup of this work consists of a non-reactive single sector linear combustor test rig scaled up with respect to engine dimensions; the test section was equipped with an effusion plate with standard inclined cylindrical holes to simulate the liner cooling system. The rig was instrumented with a 2D time-resolved particle image velocimetry system, focused on different field of views. The degree of swirl for a swirling flow is usually characterized by the swirl number, Sn, defined as the ratio of the tangential momentum flux to axial momentum flux. To assess the impact of such parameter on the near-wall effusion behavior, a set of three different axial swirlers with swirl number equal to Sn = 0.6–0.8–1.0 were designed and tested in the experimental apparatus. An analysis of the main flow field by varying the Sn was first performed in terms of average velocity, root mean square, and Tu values, providing kinetic energy spectra and turbulence length scale information. In a second step, the analysis was focused on the near-wall regions: the strong effects of Sn on the coolant jets were quantified in terms of vorticity analysis and jet oscillation.
Design and Testing of a Multi-Stage Intermediate Pressure Turbine for Future Geared Turbofans
Authors: Torre D. , García-Valdecasas G. , Puente A. , Hernández D. , Luque S. 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
The multi-stage intermediate pressure turbine (IPT) is a key enabler of the thermodynamic cycle in geared turbofan engine architectures, where fan and turbine rotational speeds become decoupled by using a power gearbox (PGB) between them. This allows for the separate aerodynamic optimization of both components, an increase in engine bypass ratios, higher propulsive efficiency, and lower specific fuel consumption (SFC). Due to significant aerodynamic differences with conventional low pressure turbines (LPTs), multi-stage IPT designs present new aerodynamic, mechanical, and acoustic trade-offs. This work describes the aerodynamic design and experimental validation of a fully featured three-stage IP turbine, including a final row of outlet guide vanes (OGVs). Experiments have been conducted in a highly engine-representative transonic rotating wind tunnel at the CTA (Centro de Tecnologías Aeronáuticas, Spain), in which Mach and Reynolds numbers were matched to engine conditions. The design intent is shown to be fully validated. Efficiency levels are discussed in the context of a previous state-of-the-art LPT, tested in the same facility. It is argued that the efficiency gains of IPTs are due to higher pitch-to-chord ratios, which lead to a reduction in overall profile losses, and higher velocity ratios and lower turning angles, which reduce airfoil secondary flows and three-dimensional losses.
Energetics and Mechanics of Steep Treadmill Versus Overground Pole Walking: A Pilot Study
Authors: Giovanelli Nicola , Mari Lara , Patini Asia , Lazzer Stefano 
Published: January 2022

Purpose:To compare energetics and spatiotemporal parameters of steep uphill pole walking on a treadmill and overground.Methods:First, the authors evaluated 6 male trail runners during an incremental graded test on a treadmill. Then, they performed a maximal overground test with poles and an overground test at 80% (OG80) of vertical velocity of maximal overground test with poles on an uphill mountain path (length = 1.3 km, elevation gain = 433 m). Finally, they covered the same elevation gain using poles on a customized treadmill at the average vertical velocity of the OG80. During all the tests, the authors measured oxygen uptake, carbon dioxide production, heart rate, blood lactate concentration, and rate of perceived exertion.Results:Treadmills required lower metabolic power (15.3 [1.9] vs 16.6 [2.0] W/kg,P = .002) and vertical cost of transport (49.6 [2.7] vs 53.7 [2.1] J/kg·m,P < .001) compared with OG80. Also, oxygen uptake was lower on a treadmill (41.7 [5.0] vs 46.2 [5.0] mL/kg·min,P = .001). Conversely, respiratory quotient was higher on TR80compared with OG80(0.98 [0.02] vs 0.89 [0.04],P = .032). In addition, rate of perceived exertion was higher on a treadmill and increased with elevation (P < .001). The authors did not detect any differences in other physiological measurements or in spatiotemporal parameters.Conclusions:Researchers, coaches, and athletes should be aware that steep treadmill pole walking requires lower energy consumption but same heart rate and rate of perceived exertion than overground pole walking at the same average intensity.
In Vitro
Activity of Cefepime-Taniborbactam against Carbapenemase-Producing
Enterobacterales
and Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolates Recovered in Spain
Authors: Hernández-García Marta , García-Castillo María , Ruiz-Garbajosa Patricia , Bou Germán , Siller-Ruiz María , Pitart Cristina , Gracia-Ahufinger Irene , Mulet Xavier , Pascual Álvaro , Tormo Nuria , Cantón Rafael 
Published: January 2022

Novel β-lactam–β-lactamase inhibitor combinations currently approved for clinical use are poorly active against metallo-β-lactamase (MBL)-producing strains. We evaluated the
in vitro
activity of cefepime-taniborbactam (FTB [formerly cefepime–VNRX-5133]) and comparator agents against carbapenemase-producing
Enterobacterales
(
n
= 247) and carbapenem-resistant
Pseudomonas
species (
n
= 170) clinical isolates prospectively collected from different clinical origins in patients admitted to 8 Spanish hospitals. FTB was the most active agent in both
Enterobacterales
(97.6% MIC
FTB
, ≤8/4 mg/L) and
Pseudomonas
(67.1% MIC
FTB
, ≤8/4 mg/L) populations.
Safe preoperative regional nerve blocks
Authors: Arbizo Joseph Christopher , Dalal Kajal , Lao Veronia , Rosinia Frank , Adejuyigbe Temiloluwa 
Published: January 2022

BackgroundProcedural time-outs and checklists are proven to be an effective means of improving teamwork and preventing wrong-sided procedures. The main objective of this study was to ensure that all regional nerve blocks being performed in the preoperative area at our hospital were executed with a proper time-out. The goal of this project was to increase integration of a safe preoperative block process including a time-out checklist to ensure; complete consents, correct patient and laterality were marked prior to each procedure. We focused on recognising events that took place before, during and after the nerve block including non-compliance with the checklist and deviations from protocol.MethodsA safe preoperative block process current and future state flowchart, revised time-out checklist and action/implementation plan as part of our Plan–Do–Study–Act model was constructed using a multidisciplinary approach. Pre-implementation and post- implementation data were collected by medical students acting anonymously via direct observation noting the presence of an anaesthesiologist, resident, nurse, time-out for procedure, checklist completed and procedure start and sedation time representing a complete time-out.ResultsThe direct observations in the pre-implementation group showed a 20% (3/15) compliance with a correct time-out. The direct observations in the post implementation group showed 85% (12/14) compliance. This revealed a 65% increase in all portions of the time-out checklist completed. Comparative analysis confirmed decrease in non-compliance and deviations from protocol as displayed by 65% increase in all portions of time-out checklist completed.ConclusionWe aimed to improve safety, communication and compliance for preoperative nerve blocks through development and implementation of a safe preoperative block process using a multidisciplinary model. We conclude that creation of a safe nerve block was achieved by integration of a preoperative nerve block process which included increased compliance to the time-out checklist, verifying patients and laterality with marking of patient prior to each procedure, identifying proper consents were completed and ensuring each regional nerve block was executed with a proper time-out.