bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regularity of the vanishing ideal over a bipartite nested ear decomposition
Authors: Neves J.
Published: May 2019

We study the Castelnuovo–Mumford regularity of the vanishing ideal over a bipartite graph endowed with a decomposition of its edge set. We prove that, under certain conditions, the regularity of the vanishing ideal over a bipartite graph obtained from a graph by attaching a path of length [Formula: see text] increases by [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is the order of the field of coefficients. We use this result to show that the regularity of the vanishing ideal over a bipartite graph, [Formula: see text], endowed with a weak nested ear decomposition is equal to [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] is the number of even length ears and pendant edges of the decomposition. As a corollary, we show that for bipartite graph the number of even length ears in a nested ear decomposition starting from a vertex is constant.
A characterization of the Arf property for quadratic quotients of the Rees algebra
Authors: Borzì Alessio
Published: May 2019

We provide a characterization of the Arf property in both the numerical duplication of a numerical semigroup and in a member of a family of quotients of the Rees algebra studied in [V. Barucci, M. D’Anna and F. Strazzanti, A family of quotients of the Rees algebra, Commun. Algebra 43(1) (2015) 130–142].
Definite determinantal representations of multivariate polynomials
Authors: Dey Papri
Published: May 2019

In this paper, we consider the problem of representing a multivariate polynomial as the determinant of a definite (monic) symmetric/Hermitian linear matrix polynomial (LMP). Such a polynomial is known as determinantal polynomial. Determinantal polynomials can characterize the feasible sets of semidefinite programming (SDP) problems that motivates us to deal with this problem. We introduce the notion of generalized mixed discriminant (GMD) of matrices which translates the determinantal representation problem into computing a point of a real variety of a specified ideal. We develop an algorithm to determine such a determinantal representation of a bivariate polynomial of degree [Formula: see text]. Then we propose a heuristic method to obtain a monic symmetric determinantal representation (MSDR) of a multivariate polynomial of degree [Formula: see text].
MV-modules of fractions
Authors: Banivaheb Hoda , Borumand Saeid Arsham
Published: May 2019

In this paper, we study the notion of [Formula: see text]-modules of fractions with respect to a ⋅-prime ideal [Formula: see text]. Also the relation between the ideals of [Formula: see text]-module [Formula: see text] and the ideals of [Formula: see text]-module of fractions [Formula: see text] is studied and it is shown that there is a one to one correspondence between [Formula: see text]-prime [Formula: see text]-ideals of [Formula: see text]-module [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]-prime [Formula: see text]-ideals of [Formula: see text]-module of fractions [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is the maximal localization of [Formula: see text] at a maximal ⋅-ideal [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] is a ⋅-prime ideal of [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text].
Towards a Comprehensive Knowledge Management Improvement Model for Medical Laboratories
Authors: Bentaleb Lamiae , El Kabbaj Saâd , Zouhdi Mimoun
Published: May 2019

Medical laboratories are complex facilities in which managing knowledge could impact patients’ lives. This paper presents a comprehensive and phased framework for knowledge management (KM) developed and applied within the Research and Medical Analysis Laboratory of the Gendarmerie Royale in Morocco. The model is built according to the PDCA wheel, and the four pillars of methodology are: leadership, knowledge core process, performance evaluation, and finally elements for its continuous improvement. This KM framework will help identify the knowledge needs and expectations of the medical laboratory’s relevant interested parties, support medical laboratory professionals with the decision-making process, and therefore enhance the quality of the services they provide.
An analytical solution of stationary hydrodynamic equations of a main-sequence star
Authors: Marasco Addolorata , Romano Antonio
Published: May 2019

We propose an analytic [Formula: see text] solution of the hydrodynamic equations for a main-sequence star in stationary and spherically symmetric conditions. We reach this result starting from convenient choices of mass density, specific function of the perfect gas, and luminosity function. The theoretical results, when applied to the Sun, are compared with the standard solar model data. A more accurate proof of Schwarzshild’s inequality and equation is given.
The Lindelöf class of L-functions II
Authors: Dixit Anup B. , Murty V. Kumar
Published: May 2019

In 2002, the second author introduced a class of [Formula: see text]-functions [Formula: see text], which contains the Selberg class and forms a ring. In this paper, we study this class and prove that the invariant [Formula: see text], which is the generalization of degree in the Selberg class cannot take non-integer values between [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. We also study the ring structure of [Formula: see text] showing that it is non-Noetherian.
A conformable mathematical model for alcohol consumption in Spain
Authors: Nazir Aqsa , Ahmed Naveed , Khan Umar , Mohyud-Din Syed Tauseef
Published: May 2019

A study on the conformable model of alcohol consumption in Spain has been presented. For the proposed model, the existence as well as the uniqueness of the solution has been discussed with the help of fixed-point theory. An analytical technique, Variational Iteration Method (VIM), has been used to obtain the solution to the governing system of differential equations. With the help of suitable plots, the role of fractional order derivative has been highlighted. For decreasing values of fractional order derivative, decrease in the number of non-consumers and non-risk consumers has been observed. By increasing the value of fractional order derivative, a sharp decrease can be seen in the compartment of risk-consumers. The agreement between the current study and the already existing studies, with ordinary derivatives, has also been pointed out.
Effect of mixed infection on TB dynamics
Authors: Ssebuliba Doreen Mbabazi , Ouifki Rachid
Published: May 2019

Poor living conditions, overcrowding and strain diversity are some of the factors that influence mixed infection in Tuberculosis (TB) at the population level. We formulate a mathematical model for mixed infection in TB using nonlinear ordinary differential equations where such factors were represented as probabilities of acquiring mixed infection. A qualitative analysis of the model shows that it exhibits multiple endemic equilibria and backward bifurcation for certain parameter values. The reactivation rate and transmission rate of individuals with mixed infection were of importance as well as the probabilities for latent individuals to acquire mixed infection. We calculate the prevalence of mixed infection from the model and the effect of mixed infection on TB incidence, TB prevalence and Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) infection rate. Numerical simulations show that mixed infection may explain high TB incidences in areas which have a high strain diversity, poor living conditions and are overcrowded even without HIV.
F-index and hyper-Zagreb index of four new tensor products of graphs and their complements
Authors: Basavanagoud B. , Barangi Anand P.
Published: May 2019

For a molecular graph [Formula: see text], the [Formula: see text]-index or forgotten topological index is defined as the sum of cubes of degree of all vertices of the graph and the hyper-Zagreb index is equal to the sum of square of sum of degree of all adjacent vertices of the graph. In this paper, we obtain [Formula: see text]-index, hyper-Zagreb index and their coindices of [Formula: see text]-tensor products (four new tensor products based on transformations of a graph) of graphs and their complements.
First-Principles Study of Ferromagnetism in Iron Chromite Spinels: FeCr2O4 and CrFe2O4
Authors: Benhalima C. , Amari S. , Beldi L. , Bouhafs B.
Published: May 2019

The structural, electronic and magnetic properties of FeCr2O4 and CrFe2O4 spinels have been investigated by the first-principles approach based on density functional theory (DFT) and the full-potential linearized augmented plane-wave method, within the generalized gradient approximation (GGA-PBE) and GGA-[Formula: see text] scheme. The stability of these spinels in the normal and inverse phases is evaluated.

The spin-polarized electronic band structures and density of states of FeCr2O4 calculated by GGA-PBE and GGA-[Formula: see text] show that the minority spin channel has metallic nature and the majority spin channel has a half-metallic (HM) gap of 0.25[Formula: see text]eV and 1.30 eV, respectively. CrFe2O4 shows that both minority and majority spin channels have metallic nature when using GGA-PBE and half-semiconducting behavior with half-semiconductor gap of 0.71[Formula: see text]eV when using GGA-[Formula: see text], with magnetic moment of 2[Formula: see text][Formula: see text] per formula unit. Analysis of density of states of these compounds indicates that the magnetic moment mainly originates from the strong spin-polarization of 3[Formula: see text] states of Fe and Cr atoms. Presence of HMF in FeCr2O4 and CrFe2O4 spinels makes these compounds promising compounds for spintronic applications.
Fusion of BWM and AHP MCDM Methods to Choose the Most Suitable Secondary School for an Individual in the Context of Bangladesh
Authors: Rezaur Rahman N. S. M. , Chowdhury Md. Abdul Ahad , Firoze Adnan , Rahman Rashedur M.
Published: May 2019

Choosing the best schools from a group of schools is a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) problem. In this paper, we have represented a method that uses the fusion of two multi-criteria decision-making methods, Best–Worst Method (BWM) and Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), to rank some of the user preferred alternatives. The system considers the choice of the user and the quality of the alternatives to rank them. User preferences on the criteria are taken as inputs in the form of best–worst comparison vectors to measure the choice of the user. These values are applied to calculate the numeric weights of each of the criteria. These weights reflect the preference of the user. A dataset of secondary schools in Bangladesh has been compiled and used for automatic quantitative pairwise comparison on the alternatives to calculate the score of each alternative in every criterion, which reflects its quality in that criterion. These scores are calculated using AHP. The weights of the criteria as well as the scores of these alternatives in those criteria are then used to calculate the final score of the alternatives and to rank them accordingly. An extensive experimental analysis and comparative study is reported at the end of this paper.
Influence of Propeller Overlap on Large-Scale Tandem UAV Performance
Authors: Weishäupl Adrian B. , Prior Stephen D.
Published: May 2019

This paper investigates the interference that arises from overlapping Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) propellers during hovering flight. The tests have been conducted on [Formula: see text] ultralight carbon fiber propellers using a bespoke mount and the RCBenchmark Series 1780 dynamometer at various degrees of overlap [Formula: see text] and vertical separation [Formula: see text]. A great deal of confusion regarding the losses that are associated with mounting propellers in a co-axial configuration is reported in the literature, with a summary of historical tandem helicopters having been conducted. The results highlight a region of beneficial overlap (0–20%), which has the potential to be advantageous to a wide range of UAVs.
Numerical Solution of Dispersive Optical Solitons with Schrödinger‐Hirota Equation by Improved Adomian Decomposition Method
Authors: Bakodah H. O. , Banaja M. A. , Alshaery A. A. , Al Qarni A. A.
Published: May 2019

In this paper, we present new numerical results for the dispersive optical soliton solutions of the nonlinear Schrödinger‐Hirota equation. The spatio‐temporal dispersion term is included, in addition to group velocity dispersion Kerr law of nonlinearity are studied. A general recursive numerical scheme for the equation is devised via the Improved Adomian Decomposition Method (IADM) and further sought for some analytical results for validation. The scheme is shown to be efficient and possessed high level of accuracy as demonstrated.
Computational and Biological Comparisons of Plant Steroids as Modulators of Inflammation through Interacting with Glucocorticoid Receptor
Authors: Morsy Mohamed A. , Patel Snehal S. , El-Sheikh Azza A. K. , Savjani Jignasa K. , Nair Anroop B. , Shah Jigar N. , Venugopala Katharigatta N.
Published: May 2019

Despite the usefulness of glucocorticoids, they may cause hazardous side effects that limit their use. Searching for compounds that are as equally efficient as glucocorticoids, but with less side effects, the current study compared plant steroids, namely, glycyrrhetinic acid, guggulsterone, boswellic acid, withaferin A, and diosgenin with the classical glucocorticoid, fluticasone. This was approached both in silico using molecular docking against glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and in vivo in two different animal models. All tested compounds interacted with GR, but only boswellic acid and withaferin A showed docking results comparable to fluticasone, as well as similar in vivo anti-inflammatory effects, by significantly decreasing serum levels of interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α in cotton pellet-induced granuloma in rats. In addition, both compounds significantly decreased the percent of change in ear weight in croton oil-induced ear edema in mice and the granuloma weight in cotton pellet-induced granuloma in rats, to levels comparable to that of fluticasone. Both boswellic acid and withaferin A had no effect on adrenal index, but only withaferin A significantly increased the thymus index. In conclusion, boswellic acid may have comparable anti-inflammatory effects to fluticasone with fewer side effects.
Leishmania donovaniInduced Cutaneous Leishmaniasis: An Insight into Atypical Clinical Variants in Sri Lanka
Authors: Siriwardana Yamuna , Deepachandi Bhagya , Gunasekara Chalukya , Warnasooriya Wipula , Karunaweera Nadira D.
Published: May 2019

Sri Lanka is a recent focus havingLeishmania donovaniinduced cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) as the main clinical entity. A separate clinical entity within profile of CL was described in this study. Laboratory confirmed cases of CL (n= 950, 2002-2014) were analysed. Most lesions showed known classical developmental stages of CL (CCL) observed in other CL endemic settings while few cases (13%, 122/950) showed atypical skin manifestations (ACL). Clinical, geographical, and treatment response patterns of ACL were different from those of CCL. ACL was mainly found among males (68.0%), in 21-40 year age group (51.6%), and reported delayed treatment seeking (23.5% vs 16.3% in CCL), more nonclassical onset (lesions other than acne form <1cm sized papules), (12.1 vs 2.7%, P<0.05.), more head and neck lesions (41.5%. vs 27.2%), more large lesions (>4cm), (18.6 vs 9.9%), and poor laboratory positivity rates (65.6% vs 88.2%) when compared to CCL. When compared to lesions reporting a typical onset, lesions reporting nonclassical onset were more likely to develop ACL later on (50.1% vs 10.7%). As compared to lesions on limbs, those on head and neck and trunk were more likely to be ACL (7.0%, 16.3%, and 22.8%, respectively, P<0.05). ACL features were not age or gender dependent. Highest proportion within ACL category (32.8%) and small proportion of CCL (10.1%) originated from less leishmaniasis prevalent areas (other regions) (P<0.05). North reported more ACL than South (15.9% vs 7.4%). A total of 95 CL cases with a significant travel history were further analyzed. Residents of other regions when acquired infection from North or South developed more ACL than residents in North or South (60.9% vs 15.9% and 42.9% vs 7.4% respectively). Patients in other regions when travelled to North developed more ACL than when they travelled to South (60.9%, 42.9%). ACL and CCL required an average of 18 doses over 16.7 months and 10 doses over 12 weeks, respectively, to achieve a complete clinical cure. Underlying host immunological factors, parasite strain variations and regional variations of both could be underlying etiologies. Established independent transmission within less leishmaniasis prevalent regions combined with an unusual clinical picture leading to poor clinical suspicion and low laboratory confirmation rate will pose potential difficulties in early case detection in these highly populated and commercialized areas. This in turn will further facilitate silent and high disease transmission.
Nanoparticles Used for Extraction of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons
Authors: Mahgoub Hiba Abdalla
Published: May 2019

This article offers a review on the application of nanoparticles (NPs) that have been used as sorbents in the analysis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The novel advances in the application of carbon NPs, mesoporous silica NPs, metal, metal oxides, and magnetic and magnetised NPs in the extraction of PAHs from matrix solutions were discussed. The extraction techniques used to isolate PAHs have been highlighted including their advantages and limitations. Methods for preparing NPs and optimized conditions of NPs extraction efficiency have been overviewed since proper extraction procedures were necessary to achieve optimum analytical results. The aim was to provide an overview of current knowledge and information in order to assess the need for further exploration that can lead to an efficient and optimum analysis of PAHs.
Numerical Solution of Nonlinear Large Strain Consolidation Based on Non‐Darcian Flow
Authors: Zhao Xu-dong , Gong Wen-hui
Published: May 2019

In this paper, based on non‐Darcian flow, the governing equation of 1D nonlinear large strain consolidation is established, which comprehensively accounts for vertical strain, soil self‐weight, geometrical nonlinearity, continuity of pore water flow, the relative velocity of the fluid and solid phases, and changing compressibility and hydraulic conductivity during consolidation. Then the numerical solution is obtained with the finite difference method (FDM). Verification of the FDM solution shows excellent accuracy. On this basis, we investigate the influence of the non‐Darcian flow on consolidation behavior. The results show that the increase of the non‐Darcian exponent will accelerate the consolidation rate in the beginning, while slowing down the consolidation rate in the end. However, it has no effect on the final settlement of the soil layer. In addition, boundary drainage conditions have a huge impact on the consolidation rate, whether it is Darcian or non‐Darcian flow.
The Prediction of Diatom Abundance by Comparison of Various Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Shin Yuna , Lee Heesuk , Lee Young-Joo , Seo Dae Keun , Jeong Bomi , Hong Seoksu , Kim Jaehoon , Kim Taekgeun , Lee Jae-Kyeong , Heo Tae-Young
Published: May 2019

This study adopts two approaches to analyze the occurrence of algae at Haman Weir for Nakdong River; one is the traditional statistical method, such as logistic regression, while the other is machine learning technique, such as kNN, ANN, RF, Bagging, Boosting, and SVM. In order to compare the performance of the models, this study measured the accuracy, specificity, sensitivity, and AUC, which are representative model evaluation tools. The ROC curve is created by plotting association of sensitivity and (1‐specificity). The AUC that is area of ROC curve represents sensitivity and specificity. This measure has two competitive advantages compared to other evaluation tools. One is that it is scale‐invariant. It means that purpose of AUC is how well the model predicts. The other is that the AUC is classification‐threshold‐invariant. It shows that the AUC is independent of threshold because it is plotted association of sensitivity and (1‐specificity) obtained by threshold. We chose AUC as a final model evaluation tool with two advantages. Also, variable selection was conducted using the Boruta algorithm. In addition, we tried to distinguish the better model by comparing the model with the variable selection method and the model without the variable selection method. As a result of the analysis, Boruta algorithm as a variable selection method suggested PO4‐P, DO, BOD, NH3‐N, Susp, pH, TOC, Temp, TN, and TP as significant explanatory variables. A comparison was made between the model with and without these selected variables. Among the models without variable selection method, the accuracy of RF analysis was highest, and ANN analysis showed the highest AUC. In conclusion, ANN analysis using the variable selection method showed the best performance among the models with and without variable selection method.
Noninvasive Ultrasound Monitoring of Embryonic and Fetal Development in Chinchilla lanigera to Predict Gestational Age: Preliminary Evaluation of This Species as a Novel Animal Model of Human Pregnancy
Authors: Greco A. , Ragucci M. , Liuzzi R. , Prota M. , Cocchia N. , Fatone G. , Mancini M. , Brunetti A. , Meomartino L.
Published: May 2019

Ultrasound is a noninvasive routine method that allows real-time monitoring of fetal development in utero to determine gestational age and to detect congenital anomalies and multiple pregnancies. To date, the developmental biology of Chinchilla lanigera has not yet been characterized. This species has been found to undergo placentation, long gestation, and fetal dimensions similar to those in humans. The aim of this study was to assess the use of high-frequency ultrasound (HFUS) and clinical ultrasound (US) to predict gestational age in chinchillas and evaluate the possibility of this species as a new animal model for the study of human pregnancy. In this study, 35 pregnant females and a total of 74 embryos and fetuses were monitored. Ultrasound examination was feasible in almost all chinchilla subjects. It was possible to monitor the chinchilla embryo with HFUS from embryonic day (E) 15 to 60 and with US from E15 to E115 due to fetus dimensions. The placenta could be visualized and measured with HFUS from E15, but not with US until E30. From E30, the heartbeat became detectable and it was possible to measure fetal biometrics. In the late stages of pregnancy, stomach, eyes, and lenses became visible. Our study demonstrated the importance of employing both techniques while monitoring embryonic and fetal development to obtain an overall and detailed view of all structures and to recognize any malformation at an early stage. Pregnancy in chinchillas can be confirmed as early as the 15th day postmating, and sonographic changes and gestational age are well correlated. The quantitative measurements of fetal and placental growth performed in this study could be useful in setting up a database for comparison with human fetal ultrasounds. We speculate that, in the future, the chinchilla could be used as an animal model for the study of US in human pregnancy.
A New Two‐Dimensional Mutual Coupled Logistic Map and Its Application for Pseudorandom Number Generator
Authors: Huang Xuan , Liu Lingfeng , Li Xiangjun , Yu Minrong , Wu Zijie
Published: May 2019

Given that the sequences generated by logistic map are unsecure with a number of weaknesses, including its relatively small key space, uneven distribution, and vulnerability to attack by phase space reconstruction, this paper proposes a new two‐dimensional mutual coupled logistic map, which can overcome these weaknesses. Our two‐dimensional chaotic map model is simpler than the recently proposed three‐dimensional coupled logistic map, whereas the sequence generated by our system is more complex. Furthermore, a new kind of pseudorandom number generator (PRNG) based on the mutual coupled logistic maps is proposed for application. Both statistical tests and security analysis show that our proposed PRNG has good randomness and that it can resist all kinds of attacks. The algorithm speed analysis indicates that PRNG is valuable to practical applications.
Large Spontaneous Right Catamenial Pneumothorax with Diaphragmatic Defect and Liver Herniation
Authors: Mukku Venkata Kishore , Cassidy Emily , Negulescu Catalina , Jagneaux Tonya , Godke John
Published: May 2019

Catamenial pneumothorax is a spontaneous pneumothorax that occurs predominantly women of child bearing age. We describe a case of a 40-year-old nulliparous woman with medical history significant for endometriosis who presented with severe chest tightness of one-day duration. Chest radiography (CXR) showed a large right spontaneous pneumothorax, what was thought to be a 5.6 cm pleural mass at the right lung base. Following pneumothorax diagnosis, the patient underwent emergent right thoracostomy with pigtail catheter placement. A repeat CXR revealed marked re-expansion of the lung but persistence of a right pleural mass. Follow up computed tomography scan of the chest showed a 33 mm diaphragmatic defect with 5.8 x 4.6 x 3.9 cm area of herniated liver corresponding to the presumed pleural mass. Following complete thoracic imaging, patient underwent video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery, mechanical pleurodesis, and open repair of the right diaphragmatic defect. Intraoperatively, an endometrial implant was noted on the chest wall. On postoperative day three, she began her menstrual cycle and was evaluated by gynecologist who recommended hormonal therapy to reduce risk of recurrent pneumothorax. Due to a persistent air leak, the chest tube was transitioned to a Heimlich valve to facilitate home discharge. The patient was discharged on postoperative day eight, seen as outpatient with resolution of air leak and removal of chest tube.
Multifunctional Pharmaceutical Effects of the Antibiotic Daptomycin
Authors: Ye Yang , Xia Zijing , Zhang Dan , Sheng Zenghua , Zhang Peng , Zhu Hongxia , Xu Ningzhi , Liang Shufang
Published: May 2019

Daptomycin (DAP), a cyclic lipopeptide produced by Streptomyces roseosporus, is a novel antibiotic to clinically treat various Gram-positive pathogenic bacteria-induced infections. Although DAP has a strong broad-spectrum bactericidal effect, recently rare bacterial antibiotic resistance against DAP gradually arises. The review is to summarize the normal indications of DAP, its off-label usage against several clinical pathogen infections, the unique antibacterial mechanisms of DAP, and the combination of antibiotic therapies for highly DAP-resistant pathogens. More noticeably, rising evidences demonstrate that DAP has new potential activity of anticancer and immunomodulatory effects. So far the multifunctional pharmaceutical effects of DAP deserve to be further explored for future clinical applications.
FEEDMI: A Study Protocol to Determine the Influence of Infant-Feeding on Very-Preterm-Infant’s Gut Microbiota
Authors: Morais Juliana , Marques Cláudia , Teixeira Diana , Durão Catarina , Faria Ana , Brito Sara , Cardoso Manuela , Macedo Israel , Tomé Teresa , Calhau Conceição
Published: May 2019

Background: Preterm infants are especially vulnerable to gut microbiota disruption and dysbiosis since their early gut microbiota is less abundant and diverse. Several factors may influence infants’ gut microbiota, such as the mother’s diet, mode of delivery, antibiotic exposure, and type of feeding. Objectives: This study aims to examine the factors associated with very-preterm neonate’s intestinal microbiota, namely: (1) type of infant-feeding (breast milk, donor human milk with or without bovine protein-based fortifier, and preterm formula); (2) maternal diet; and (3) mode of delivery. Methods: This is an observational study conducted in a cohort of very preterm infants hospitalized in the neonatal intensive care unit of Maternidade Dr. Alfredo da Costa. After delivery, the mothers are asked to collect their own fecal samples and are invited to complete a semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire. The maternal diet will be classified in accordance to the Mediterranean Diet adherence score. Stool samples have been collected from very premature infants every 7 days for 21 days. DNA has been extracted from the fecal samples, and different bacterial genus and species will be quantified by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results and Conclusions: It is hypothesized that significant differences in the microbiota composition and clinical outcomes of very preterm infants will be observed depending on the type of infant feeding. In addition, this study will clarify how pasteurized donor’s milk influences the intestinal microbiota colonization of preterm infants. This is a pioneer study developed in collaboration with the country’s Human Milk Bank. We also expect to find microbiota alterations in infants according to the mode of delivery and to maternal diet. This study will contribute to increase the evidence on the effects of breast or donor human milk and its fortification with a bovine protein-based fortifier on infant microbiota.
Aortic Coarctation: A Comprehensive Analysis of Shape, Size, and Contractility of the Fetal Heart
Authors: DeVore Greggory R. , Jone Pei Ni , Satou Gary , Sklansky Mark , Cuneo Bettina F.
Published: May 2019

Background: An integrated assessment of the size and shape of the 4-chamber view (4-CV) and right and left ventricles (RV and LV) as well as the function of the RV and LV in fetuses with coarctation of the aorta (CoA) has not yet been conducted. Objectives: We evaluated the size and shape of the 4-CV, RV, and LV, and function of the RV and LV, to identify a profile for fetuses with CoA when compared to a control population. Methods: 50 CoA fetuses were compared to 200 controls. This was a retrospective case series comparing the 4-CV of CoA fetuses and controls. The 4-CV end-diastolic area, length, width, and sphericity index were measured to determine the configuration of the 4-CV. Speckle-tracking analysis was used to compute the RV and LV end-diastolic area, length, 24-segment sphericity index, 24-segment transverse width, and the following functional parameters: (1) fractional area change; (2) global, lateral, and septal strain; (3) basal-apical, lateral, and septal annular displacement and fractional shortening; and (4) 24-segment transverse width fractional shortening. Using 5 and 95% reference intervals, the CoA fetal measurements were classified; from these, the odds ratio was computed between the fetuses with CoA and the controls. p < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: In fetuses with CoA, the 4-CV was spherical in shape, increased in area and width, and decreased in length. Abnormal CoA sphericity indices reflected a flatter LV and a more spherical RV. The LV area, length, and width, and RV length were decreased. The transverse width of the RV was increased. RV and LV global, longitudinal, and transverse contractility were depressed. Conclusions: The results demonstrate previously unappreciated differences in the shape, size, and function of the heart in fetuses with CoA. These differences may assist examiners in identifying fetuses with CoA.
Clinical and Acoustical Voice Quality Evolutions Throughout Empirical Treatment for Laryngopharyngeal Reflux Disease According to Gender: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Lechien Jérôme R. , Huet Kathy , Finck Camille , Khalife Mohamad , Fourneau Anne-Francoise , Harmegnies Bernard , Saussez Sven
Published: May 2019

Objective: To compare symptoms, signs, and acoustical voice quality changes throughout the 6-month course of empirical treatment between laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) males and females. Materials and Methods: Forty clinically diagnosed LPR females and 40 males with a reflux finding score (RFS) >7 and a reflux symptom index (RSI) >13 were treated with pantoprazole and diet recommendations during 3 or 6 months according to their evolution. RSI, RFS, and acoustic parameters were assessed at baseline and 3 and 6 months posttreatment. A correlation analysis between videolaryngostroboscopic findings and acoustic measurements was performed. Results: RSI, RFS, and many acoustic measurements (i.e., percent jitter, percent shimmer, phonatory fundamental frequency range, fundamental frequency variation, and peak-to-peak amplitude variation) significantly improved from baseline to 3 months posttreatment in male group. In female group, RSI and RFS total score significantly improved along the 3 first months of treatment. However, some clinical outcomes (i.e., RSI total score, hoarseness, cough, and globus) continued to improve from 3 to 6 months of treatment. We did not identify significant improvement of acoustic measurements in female group. The correlation study did not reveal significant correlation between videolaryngostroboscopic findings and acoustic measurements. Conclusion: This preliminary study suggests the occurrence of gender-related differences in the LPR therapeutic response. Further studies need to clarify whether females require a longer course of therapy than males.
Vollständiges pathologisches Ansprechen auf Pembrolizumab nach Ex-vivo-Leberresektion bei einer Patientin mit Lebermetastasen eines kolorektalen Karzinoms
Authors: Baimas-George Maria , Baker Erin , Kamionek Michal , Salmon J. Stuart , Sastry Amit , Levi David , Vrochides Dionisios
Published: May 2019

Fortschritte bei der systemischen Behandlung des kolorektalen Karzinoms im Stadium IV mit Lebermetastasen haben zu höheren Überlebensraten geführt, nachdem die Prognose für die Patienten zuvor verheerend war. Ein vollständiges Ansprechen laut histopathologischem Befund (pCR) ist bei chemotherapeutisch behandelten Lebermetastasen eines kolorektalen Karzinoms jedoch weiterhin selten, und auch seine Bedeutung ist noch nicht vollständig geklärt. Wir beschreiben hier den Fall einer Patientin, die nach neoadjuvanter Immuntherapie mit Pembrolizumab und linksseitiger Ex-vivo-Hemihepatektomie ein pCR erreichte.
Impact of Growth Hormone Therapy on Adult Height in Patients with PTPN11 Mutations Related to Noonan Syndrome
Authors: Malaquias Alexsandra C. , Noronha Renata M. , Souza Thaiana T.O. , Homma Thais K. , Funari Mariana F.A. , Yamamoto Guilherme L. , Silva Fernanda Viana , Moraes Michelle B. , Honjo Rachel S. , Kim Chong A. , Nesi-França Suzana , Carvalho Julienne A.R. , Quedas Elisangela P.S. , Bertola Debora R. , Jorge Alexander A.L.
Published: May 2019

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the response to recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) treatment in patients with Noonan syndrome (NS). Materials and Methods: Forty-two patients (35 PTPN11+) were treated with rhGH, and 17 were followed-up until adult height. The outcomes were changes in growth velocity (GV) and height standard deviation scores (SDS) for normal (height-CDC SDS) and Noonan standards (height-NS SDS). Results: The pretreatment chronological age was 10.3 ± 3.5 years. Height-CDC SDS and height-NS SDS were –3.1 ± 0.7 and –0.5 ± 0.6, respectively. PTPN11+ patients had a better growth response than PTPN11– patients. GV SDS increased from –1.2 ± 1.8 to 3.1 ± 2.8 after the first year of therapy in PTPN11+ patients, and from –1.9 ± 2.6 to –0.1 ± 2.6 in PTPN11– patients. The gain in height-CDC SDS during the first year was higher in PTPN11+ than PTPN11– (0.6 ± 0.4 vs. 0.1 ± 0.2, p = 0.008). Similarly, the gain was observed in height-NS SDS (0.6 ± 0.3 vs. 0.2 ± 0.2, respectively, p < 0.001). Among the patients that reached adult height (n = 17), AH-CDC SDS and AH-NS SDS were –2.1 ± 0.7 and 0.7 ± 0.8, respectively. The total increase in height SDS was 1.3 ± 0.7 and 1.5 ± 0.6 for normal and NS standards, respectively. Conclusions: This study supports the advantage of rhGH therapy on adult height in PTPN11+ patients. In comparison, PTPN11– patients showed a poor response to rhGH. However, this PTPN11– group was small, preventing an adequate comparison among different genotypes and no guarantee of response to therapy in genes besides PTPN11.
Risk Factors and Prognostic Factors of Hearing Impairment in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit-Treated Infants
Authors: Umehara Tsuyoshi , Hosokawa Seiji , Kita Jun-ya , Takahashi Goro , Okamura Jun , Nakanishi Hiroshi , Hosokawa Kumiko , Kyou Koujin , Hayashi Yasuhiro , Mineta Hiroyuki
Published: May 2019

Background: Infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) have a higher incidence of congenital hearing loss compared with the healthy newborn population. Objectives: To clarify the relationship between risk factors for hearing impairment in NICU-treated infants and deterioration of the auditory brainstem response (ABR) threshold during childhood. Method: We screened 1,071 high-risk infants admitted to the NICU for hearing impairment. One-hundred forty-eight infants exhibited an abnormal ABR threshold of ≥40 dB nHL. We analyzed the correlation of change in ABR threshold with risk factors for future hearing impairment. Results: Among infants treated in the NICU, 148 (13.8%) exhibited an ABR threshold of ≥40 dB nHL; 107 of these 148 (72.3%) showed hearing change in the process (102 showed improvement to normal hearing level, whereas 5 showed further deterioration). Our analysis showed that the factors contributing to the elevation of ABR threshold were oxygen administration and chromosomal aberrations. Conclusions: Factors related to the elevation of ABR threshold were oxygen administration and the presence of chromosomal aberrations. Awareness of risk factors that are more likely to cause hearing loss in infants may aid in follow-up treatment of these children.
Endoskopische Vollwandresektion kolorektaler Befunde mit dem FTRD-System
Authors: Raab Hans-Rudolf
Published: May 2019

Background and Aims: Endoscopic full-thickness resection (EFTR) is an emerging technique for the treatment of various conditions for which classic endoscopic resection techniques have failed or were considered to be at high risk for perforation. The full-thickness resection device (FTRD) is an over-the-scope system which allows a single-step EFTR. The aim of our study is to describe our experience in EFTR of colorectal lesions using the FTRD. Methods: Nine patients (10 colorectal lesions) were proposed for EFTR. Safety, R0 resection and endoscopic treatment success were evaluated. Results: Reasons for referral included nonlifting adenomas (n = 4), nonlifting adenoma recurrence (n = 5), and submucosal lesion (n = 1). EFTR was technically successful in all patients. The mean duration of the procedure was 55 min. R0 resection was obtained in all patients. No major complications were detected. All lesions were successfully treated by the endoscopic technique and no patient was referred for surgery. In patients with available follow-up (n = 6), no recurrence was detected. Conclusions: EFTR is a feasible, reasonable time-consuming, safe, and promising endoscopic resection technique. Key Messages: FTRD is an additional tool for difficult-to-treat colorectal lesions.
The Sting of Rejection: Deferring Blood Donors due to Low Hemoglobin Values Reduces Future Returns
Authors: Bruhin Adrian , Goette Lorenz , Haenni Simon , Jiang Lingqing , Markovic Alexander , Roethlisberger Adrian , Buchli Regula , Frey Beat M.
Published: May 2019

Background: Roughly one quarter of short-term temporary deferrals (STTD) of blood donors are low-hemoglobin deferrals (LHD), i.e. STTD due to a hemoglobin (Hb) value falling below a cutoff of 125 g/L for female and 135 g/L for male donors. Since voluntarily donating blood is a prosocial activity, donors may perceive deferral as social exclusion, which can cause social pain, decrease self-esteem, and lead to antisocial behavior. However, little is known about the causal impacts of LHD on donor return. Study Design and Methods: We conducted a quasi-experiment with 80,060 donors invited to blood drives in the canton of Zurich, Switzerland, between 2009 and 2014. Within a narrow window of Hb values around the predetermined cutoff, the rate of LHD jumps discontinuously. This discontinuous jump allows us to quantify the causal effects of LHD on donor return, as it is uncorrelated with other unobserved factors that may also affect donor return. Results: We found different behavioral reactions to LHD for female and male donors. Female donors do not react to the first LHD. However, after any repeated LHD, they are 13.53 percentage points (p <0.001) less likely to make at least 1 donation attempt within the next 18 months and make 0.389 fewer donation attempts (p <0.001). Male donors react to the first LHD. They are 5.32 percentage points (p = 0.139) less likely to make at least 1 donation attempt over the next 18 months and make 0.227 (p = 0.018) fewer donation attempts. After any repeated LHD, male donors are 13.30 percentage points (p = 0.004) less likely to make at least 1 donation attempt and make 0.152 (p = 0.308) fewer donation attempts. Conclusion: LHD have detrimental impacts on donor return, especially if they occur repeatedly – suggesting that avoiding false LHD and helping donors to better cope with them helps to maintain the pool of prospective donors.
Analysis of the Territorial Issue regarding the Liancourt Rocks between Korea and Japan
Authors: Chung Min Jung
Published: May 2019

In this Article, the “three-staged judicial review” found in the reasoning of territorial arbitral awards of the International Arbitral Tribunal and decisions of the Permanent Court of International Justice and the International Court of Justice, was discussed. The Tribunal and Court have attributed the utmost priority to boundary treaties (in most cases, concluded between two imperial nations in the past), peace treaties, uti possidetis juris, and an adjudicative award in adjudicating the sovereign matter. Conversely, a chain-of-title through cession and succession from ancient times is of no value. In the absence of any legal title, then effectivités is taken into consideration.

One of the rationales behind the reasoning was that the principle of stability of boundaries is of such importance that it may defeat other principles of international law, e.g., even jus cogens. It is, however, suspected that contemporary reasoning demonstrates bias toward maintaining past colonial rule under the guise of the stability of boundaries. Domestic property law and economics approach also explains that a state with written title (based on boundary treaties, peace treaties, the principle of uti possidetis, and arbitral awards) and a state with effectivités are more likely to be considered to have control over territory in issue than a state with original ownership.

As to the issue of the Liancourt Rocks, Japan claims that it will be necessary for Korea and Japan to diplomatically negotiate to refer the matter to the Tribunal or the Court. However, Korea does not feel the need to agree on referring the matter to the International Judicial Body. The first reason for Korea’s attitude is that Korea already physically occupied the island with its police force. The second reason is that Japan has a choice, either to take the island back with direct confrontation or to accept the loss and leave Korea’s sovereignty alone, that the Liancourt Rocks has of little value to Japan, compared to other territories disputed between Japan and its neighboring states, and therefore, that it is almost impossible to imagine that Japan would dare to choose direct confrontation. There are likely to be many more reasons for leaving Korea’s sovereignty over the Liancourt Rocks alone than for initiating military operation over the small island. The third reason is that, although Korea is more likely to win the case given the reasoning and its three rationales above mentioned, Korea’s ownership of this island would become a fait accompli without taking unnecessary risk of deferring the sovereign matter of critical national interest to the third judicial body.
Everyday Politics of “Dokdo” and South Korean National Identity
Authors: Lee Ji-Young , Lee Jaehyun
Published: May 2019

In this article, we show that the Dokdo/Takeshima islands issue has become a cultural phenomenon in South Korea, in which the popular desire for national pride has increasingly been intertwined with the government’s efforts for promoting its policy position vis-à-vis Japan. We argue that narratives on Dokdo – created in and through activities in the realms of education, media, and civil society activism – are designed to enhance South Korean territorial sovereignty over the islands. In the process, however, Dokdo has become a symbol of Korean identity or “Koreanness,” as the public, teachers, students, and activists have all engaged in meaning-making activities surrounding the islands. This phenomenon has become salient, in part because these actors sought to respond to Japan’s own activities, including the designation of “Takeshima Day” in 2005. As part of a grassroots movement, their strategy of creating everyday symbols over the islands not just expressed, but also reproduced Korean national identity.
Still More Than a Feeling: Commentary on Cash et al., “Expectancy Effects in the Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response” and Recommendations for Measurement in Future ASMR Research
Authors: Hostler Thomas J. , Poerio Giulia Lara , Blakey Emma
Published: May 2019

Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) — the sensory phenomenon experienced by some people in response to visual and auditory stimuli such as whispering — has attracted substantial public attention but is not yet well understood or well established within the scientific community. Recent research published in PeerJ by Cash, Heisick and Papesh (2018) investigated whether ASMR could be a placebo effect (resulting from expectation) rather than a genuine experience triggered by ASMR-inducing stimuli. In this article, we provide a commentary on Cash et al.’s findings and argue that they provide evidence for (rather than against) the veracity of ASMR. We discuss issues regarding the measurement of ASMR and end by providing some recommendations on how to assess ASMR as both a state and a trait, in the hope of galvanising collaborative research efforts in the emerging field of ASMR.
Linguistic Justice vs. Linguistic Diversity
Authors: Trabant Jürgen
Published: May 2019

The linguistic uniformity of Europe (or the globe) is currently enforced not only by powerful economic and political forces but also by sociologists and social philosophers. At first, the learning of global English was only considered to be a necessary professional skill, then, the positive connotations of “plurilingualism” were evoked for fostering its universal adoption. Now, the acquisition of “globalese” is promoted as a means to achieve social justice. The rhetoric of justice immunises this discourse against any criticism (what can you say against justice?). Its political aims and measures are reminiscent of the aims and measures of the linguistic Jacobinism in the French Revolution. The propagandistic moves of the social sciences are accompanied by a polemic against linguistic diversity and the connection of language to culture. They are based on a reductive conception of language that underestimates their cognitive and, hence, cultural potential.