bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calcitonin negative medullary thyroid cancer in ectopic thyroid tissue: a rare diagnosis in an unusual location
Authors: Montgomery Gareth , Collins Laurence , Coghlin Caroline , Ullah Ramzan
Published: August 2020

Medullary thyroid cancer is an aggressive form of thyroid cancer arising from parafollicular C cells. Calcitonin (CT) is a specific and sensitive biochemical marker which typically aids primary diagnosis and disease surveillance following treatment. There are rare cases of calcitonin negative medullary thyroid cancer (CNMTC) documented in the literature; however, to our knowledge, this case is the first report of CNMTC arising in ectopic thyroid tissue. We report a case of a 45-year-old man who attended his primary care physician with painless anterior neck swelling. In the absence of CT secreting disease, we have demonstrated the investigative process and the importance of immunohistochemical analysis to achieve a diagnosis. We also consider the challenges of monitoring disease recurrence in the absence of reliable biochemical markers.
Postacute inpatient rehabilitation for COVID-19
Authors: Shan Mia X , Tran Yen M , Vu Kim T , Eapen Blessen C
Published: August 2020

This case describes the successful pulmonary rehabilitation of a premorbidly independent female in the early 80s who was admitted for acute respiratory distress syndrome secondary to COVID-19 requiring 14 days of intubation. Patient was admitted to the acute rehabilitation unit 1 month after hospitalisation. Patient initially had poor endurance and was only able to ambulate with a front wheel walker for 150 feet, and also had tachycardia and decreased oxygen saturation after ambulation. During patient’s rehabilitation course, therapy was focused on improving activity tolerance. Ten days after admission, patient was able to ambulate without an assistive device for 250 feet and with a rollator for over 900 feet. Patient also showed improvement in gait speed, heart rate, oxygen saturation after ambulation and incentive spirometer volume. This case demonstrates that pulmonary rehabilitation is an important component of inpatient care for patients with COVID-19 to improve functional exercise capacity and aerobic capacity.
Radiomics-based assessment of ultra-widefield leakage patterns and vessel network architecture in the PERMEATE study: insights into treatment durability
Authors: Prasanna Prateek , Bobba Vishal , Figueiredo Natalia , Sevgi Duriye Damla , Lu Cheng , Braman Nathaniel , Alilou Mehdi , Sharma Sumit , Srivastava Sunil K , Madabhushi Anant , Ehlers Justis P
Published: August 2020

Aim

To evaluate the potential of radiomics-based ultra-widefield fluorescein angiography (UWFA)-derived imaging biomarkers in retinal vascular disease for predicting therapeutic durability of intravitreal aflibercept injection (IAI).

Methods

The Peripheral and Macular Retinal Vascular Perfusion and Leakage Dynamics in Diabetic Macular Edema and Retinal Venous Occlusions During Intravitreal Aflibercept Injection (IAI) Treatment for Retinal Edema (PERMEATE) study prospectively evaluated quantitative UWFA dynamics in diabetic macular oedema or macular oedema secondary to retinal vascular occlusion. 27 treatment-naïve eyes were treated with 2 mg IAI q4 weeks for the first 6 months, and then administered q8 weeks. Morphological and graph-based attributes were used to model the spatial distribution of leakage areas, while tortuosity measures were used to model the vessel network disorder. Eyes were grouped based on functional tolerance of the first 8-week treatment interval challenge. ‘Non-rebounders’ (N=15) maintained/improved best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) following the 8-week challenge. ‘Rebounders’ (N=12) exhibited worsened BVCA. The image biomarkers were used with a machine learning classifier to preliminarily evaluate their ability to predict BCVA stability.

Results

Two new UWFA image-derived biomarkers were identified and extracted. The cross-validated area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was 0.77±0.14 using baseline leakage distribution features and 0.73±0.10 for the UWFA baseline tortuosity measures. Additionally, the change in vascular tortuosity between month 4 and baseline yielded an AUC of 0.73±0.08. Three baseline clinical features of letter score, macular volume and central subfield thickness yielded a corresponding AUC of 0.42±0.09.

Conclusions

Two computer-extracted UWFA radiomics-based descriptors were identified as potential biomarkers for predicting treatment durability and tolerance of longer treatment intervals. Conventional treatment parameters were not significantly different between these same groups.
Quality improvement initiative for improved patient communication in an ED rapid assessment zone
Authors: Taher Ahmed , Magcalas Federico Webster , Woolner Victoria , Casey Stephen , Davies Debra , Chartier Lucas B
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Patient–clinician communication in the Emergency Department (ED) faces challenges of time and interruptions, resulting in negative effects on patient satisfaction with communication and failure to relieve anxiety. Our aim was to improve patient satisfaction with communication and to decrease related patient anxiety.

Methods

A multistage quality improvement (QI) initiative was conducted in the ED of Toronto General Hospital, a quaternary care centre in Ontario, Canada, from January to May 2018. We engaged stakeholders widely including clinicians, allied health and patients. We developed a 5-point Likert scale survey to measure patient and clinician rating of their communication experience, along with open-ended questions, and a patient focus group. Inductive analyses yielded interventions that were introduced through three Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles: (1) a clinician communication tool called Acknowledge-Empathize-Inform; (2) patient information pamphlets; and (3) a multimedia solution displaying patient-directed material. Our primary outcome was to improve patient satisfaction with communication and decrease anxiety by at least one Likert scale point over 6 months. Our secondary outcome was clinician-perceived interruptions by patients. We used statistical process control (SPC) charts to identify special cause variation and two-tailed Mann-Whitney U tests to compare means (statistical significance p<0.05).

Results

A total of 232 patients and 104 clinicians were surveyed over baseline and three PDSA cycles. Communication about wait times, ED process, timing of next steps and directions to patient areas were the most frequently identified gaps, which informed our interventions. Measurements at baseline and during PDSA 3 showed: patient satisfaction increased from 3.28 (5 being best; n=65) to 4.15 (n=59, p<0.0001). Patient anxiety decreased from 2.96 (1 being best; n=65) to 2.31 (n=59, p<0.001). Clinician-perceived interruptions by patients changed from 4.33 (5 being highest; n=30) to 4.18 (n=11, p=0.98) and did not meet significance. SPC charts showed special cause variation temporally associated with our interventions.

Conclusions

Our pragmatic low-cost QI initiative led to statistically significant improvement in patient satisfaction with communication and decreased patient anxiety while narrowly missing our a priori improvement aim of one full Likert scale point.
In vitro fertilisation with preimplantation genetic testing: the need for expanded insurance coverage
Authors: Kilbride Madison K
Published: August 2020

Technological advances in genetic testing have enabled prospective parents to learn about their risk of passing a genetic condition to their future children. One option for those who want to ensure that their biological children do not inherit a genetic condition is to create embryos through in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and use a technique called preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) to screen embryos for genetic abnormalities before implantation. Unfortunately, due to its high cost, IVF-with-PGT is out of reach for the vast majority of Americans. This article addresses an issue that has been underexplored in the medical ethics literature: the lack of insurance coverage for IVF-with-PGT.Within the US system, a key concept in insurance is that of medically necessary care, which broadly consists of diagnostic services and treatment services. In this article, I argue that IVF-with-PGT could be classified as either a diagnostic service or as a treatment service. To make this case, I show that IVF-with-PGT is similar to other types of services that are often covered by US insurance providers. In light of these similarities, I argue that the current system is inconsistent with respect to what is—and is not—covered by insurance. To promote consistency and fairness in coverage, like cases should be treated alike—starting with greater coverage for IVF-with-PGT.
Using the cognitive apprenticeship model to identify learning strategies that learners view as effective in ward rounds
Authors: Tariq Muhammad , Iqbal Sundus , Haider Sonia Ijaz , Abbas Aamir
Published: August 2020

Background

Cognitive apprenticeship model (CAM) is an instructional model for situated learning. There is limited data available on application of the CAM in clinical settings. The aim of the study was to identify learning strategies using CAM, which in the opinion of learners are effective in ward rounds.

Methods

Participants were residents and medical students who rotated through internal medicine at Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi. We sought learners’ opinion on a structured questionnaire based on four principal dimensions of cognitive apprenticeship. A previously determined set of 10 defined competencies were compared with CAM’s six teaching/learning (T/L) methods (modelling, coaching, scaffolding, articulation, reflection and exploration) as well. Mean and SD were calculated. Mann-Whitney test was used to compare scores.

Results

Of 195 participants, there were 100 men (51.3%) and 95 women (48.7%). Perceived learning for six T/L methods, ranged from 3.7 to 3.9 (max=5). Coaching and scaffolding had the highest scores. Statistically significant difference between the student and resident groups was noted. Medical students perceived coaching and scaffolding (4.1 and 4.05) and residents rated coaching, articulation and exploration as most effective (3.9 and 3.8). Majority (82.1%) reported a positive learning environment in wards.

Conclusions

CAM enabled to identify two T/L methods (scaffolding and coaching) that are important for learning in ward round. Limited differences in perceived effectiveness of the T/L methods indicate that variety can be used to sustain interest in learners. Positive learning environment, team diversity and tasks of increasing complexity contribute to learning.
Use of three-dimensional printing of a lumbar skeletal model for intrathecal administration of nusinersen: a brief technical report
Authors: Abe Hiroaki , Inoue Reo , Tsuchida Rikuhei , Azuma Kenji , Ino Kenji , Konishi Mitsuru , Hozumi Jun , Sumitani Masahiko
Published: August 2020

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an autosomal recessive hereditary neurodegenerative disease causing progressive muscle atrophy, weakness and kyphoscoliosis. Nusinersen is a therapeutic agent for SMA that should be administered intrathecally. However, due to severe kyphoscoliosis, lumbar puncture can be challenging. Here, we present our experience of intrathecal administration of nusinersen in an SMA patient with severe kyphoscoliosis using a life-size three-dimensional printing (3D) skeletal model created with 3D printer. With this strategy, we were able to rapidly and safely perform the lumbar puncture.
Price elasticity of demand for manufactured cigarettes and roll-your-own cigarettes across socioeconomic status groups in Thailand
Authors: Jankhotkaew Jintana , Pitayarangsarit Siriwan , Chaiyasong Surasak , Markchang Kamolphat
Published: August 2020

Background

Pricing policies have been proven to be effective in reducing tobacco consumption. However, studies investigating the effectiveness of pricing policies across different types of tobacco products and socioeconomic status (SES) groups are limited, particularly in low-income and middle-income countries.

Objective

This study aimed to quantify the price elasticity of demand for different types of cigarettes across different SES groups.

Methods

This study used data from a nationally representative survey in Thailand conducted in 2017 and included current smokers aged at least 15 years. To quantify the price elasticity of demand for cigarette consumption, a two-part model was employed for five different types of cigarettes: domestic and imported manufactured cigarettes with a low and high price, and roll-your-own cigarettes. Personal income was used to determine SES.

Results

Price elasticity of demand for cigarettes exists for all types of cigarettes. The price elasticity of demand for manufactured and roll-your-own cigarettes was −0.49 (p<0.05) and −0.32 (p<0.05), respectively. People who smoked domestic manufactured cigarettes were more responsive to price change than those who smoked imported manufactured cigarettes. Low-income smokers of manufactured and roll-your-own cigarettes were more responsive to price change than those with high income.

Conclusion

Smokers with a low income were more responsive to price change than those with higher income. The effectiveness of pricing policy in reducing demand for manufactured cigarettes was greater in domestic cigarettes than imported ones.
New tobacco products, old advertising strategies: point-of-sale advertising in Guatemala
Authors: Barnoya Joaquin , Monzon Diego , Pinetta Jose , Grilo Graziele , Cohen Joanna E
Published: August 2020

Objective

Capsule cigarettes, electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and heated tobacco products (HTPs) are now readily available in Guatemala. As in most countries, the point-of-sale (POS) remains an important marketing channel for the tobacco industry. Therefore, we sought to characterise the POS marketing of these products in the two largest cities in Guatemala.

Methods

Convenience stores were randomly surveyed in mid and high socioeconomic status (SES) neighbourhoods in Guatemala City (n=60) and Quetzaltenango (n=15) in 2019. We adapted a previously implemented checklist to assess the availability of interior advertising of capsule cigarettes, e-cigarettes and HTP. Data entry was done in Kobo toolbox and analysis in STATA.

Results

All stores sold conventional and flavoured capsule cigarettes, 78% e-cigarettes and 68% HTP. Most cigarette advertising was for capsule cigarettes. E-cigarettes were more likely to be sold in Guatemala City (96%) than in Quetzaltenango (13%). HTPs were only found in Guatemala City (85%), with no difference between high and medium SES neighbourhoods. Median number of ads for cigarettes and capsule cigarettes was higher in the high SES neighbourhood. Most e-cigarettes (83%) and HTP (74%) were found <50 cm from candy. E-cigarettes and HTP were available in a wide range of flavours. All stores that sold HTP had flavoured HEETS (amber, bronze, turquoise, yellow, blue and purple).

Conclusion

We found a high prevalence of advertising for capsule cigarettes, e-cigarettes and HTP at the POS. The POS, a crucial advertising channel for the tobacco industry, is now being used for new products and therefore needs to be urgently regulated.
Economic cost of smoking and secondhand smoke exposure in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries
Authors: Koronaiou Konstantina , Al-Lawati Jawad A , Sayed Mohamed , Alwadey Ali M , Alalawi Ejlal F , Almutawaa Kholoud , Hussain Amal HJ , Al-Maidoor Wedad , Al-Farsi Yahya M , Delipalla Sofia
Published: August 2020

Background

The economic cost of smoking has been determined in many high-income countries as well as at a global level. This paper estimates the economic cost of smoking and secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure in the six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates), for which no detailed study exists.

Methods

We used data from the Global Burden of Diseases Study 2016 and the cost-of-illness approach to estimate direct costs (healthcare expenditures) and indirect costs (productivity losses due to morbidity and mortality). Indirect cost was estimated with and without the inclusion of musculoskeletal disorders, using the human capital approach.

Results

Total cost of smoking and SHS was estimated to be purchasing power parity (PPP)$ 34.5 billion in 2016, equivalent to 1.04% of the combined gross domestic product (GDP). SHS accounted for 20.4% of total cost. The highest proportion of indirect cost resulted from smoking in men and middle-aged people. The main causes of morbidity cost from smoking and SHS were chronic respiratory diseases and type 2 diabetes mellitus, respectively. Cardiovascular diseases were the main contributor to mortality cost for both smoking and exposure to SHS. Including musculoskeletal disorders increased total cost to PPP$ 41.3 billion (1.25% of the combined GDP).

Conclusion

The economic cost of smoking and SHS in the GCC states is relatively low compared with other high-income countries. Scaling-up implementation of evidence-based policies will prevent the evolution of a tobacco epidemic with its negative consequences for health and public finances.
Association between school-based tobacco retailer exposures and young adolescent cigarette, cigar and e-cigarette use
Authors: Trapl Erika , Anesetti-Rothermel Andrew , Pike Moore Stephanie , Gittleman Haley
Published: August 2020

Background

Associations between retail tobacco availability and tobacco use have been mixed. This study examined associations between school-based retail environment exposures and current use of cigarettes, cigar products and e-cigarettes among middle school youth in Cleveland, OH.

Methods

Retailers selling tobacco products were identified using the 2015 Cleveland Food Retail Database (n=639 stores). Youth survey data were drawn from the 2016 Cleveland Youth Risk Behavior Survey, administered to all 7th/8th graders across the Cleveland Metropolitan School District (n=3778, response rate=83.0%). Past 30-day cigarette, cigar product and e-cigarette use were assessed. Student demographics, number of days walking to/from school each week and number of times youth stopped at a retailer to/from school each week were included. For each school (n=63), tobacco retail density (TRD) and proximity (TRP) to nearest retailer were calculated for each product. Multiple regression analysis assessed associations between retail exposures and youth tobacco use.

Results

Across all schools, 3.9%, 10.2% and 8.6% of students currently use cigarettes, cigar products and e-cigarettes, respectively, and 15.2% currently use at least one tobacco product. TRD and TRP were not associated with current use; frequency of walking to school and stopping at retailers were strongly associated with current use.

Conclusions

Although TRD and TRP were not significantly associated with tobacco product use, youth who reported regularly walking to/from school or who reported stopping at a retail store before/after school were significantly more likely to be a current tobacco product user. This may be due to increased exposure to exterior and point-of-sale marketing.
Resistance to data loss from the Freestyle Libre: impact on glucose variability indices and recommendations for data analysis
Authors: Kingsnorth Andrew P. , Whelan Maxine E. , Orme Mark W. , Routen Ash C. , Sherar Lauren B. , Esliger Dale W.
Published: August 2020

Like many wearables, flash glucose monitoring relies on user compliance and is subject to missing data. As recent research is beginning to utilise glucose technologies as behaviour change tools, it is important to understand whether missing data are tolerable. Complete Freestyle Libre data files were amputed to remove 1–6 h of data both at random and over mealtimes (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). Absolute percent errors (MAPE) and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were calculated to evaluate agreement and reliability. Thirty-two (91%) participants provided at least 1 complete day (24 h) of data (age: 44.8 ± 8.6 years, female: 18 (56%); mean fasting glucose: 5.0 ± 0.6 mmol/L). Mean and continuous overall net glycaemic action (CONGA) (60 min) were robust to data loss (MAPE ≤3%). Larger errors were calculated for standard deviation, coefficient of variation (CV) and mean amplitude of glycaemic excursions (MAGE) at increasing missingness (MAPE: 2%–10%, 2%–9%, and 4%–18%, respectively). ICC decreased as missing data increased, with most indicating excellent reliability (>0.9) apart from certain MAGE ICCs, which indicated good reliability (0.84–0.9). Researchers and clinicians should be aware of the potential for larger errors when reporting standard deviation, CV, and MAGE at higher rates of data loss in nondiabetic populations. But where mean and CONGA are of interest, data loss is less of a concern.

Novelty:

As research now utilises flash glucose monitoring as behavioural change tools in nondiabetic populations, it is important to consider the influence of missing data. Glycaemic variability indices of mean and CONGA are robust to data loss, but standard deviation, CV, and MAGE are influenced at higher rates of missingness.
Astragaloside IV enhanced carboplatin sensitivity in prostate cancer by suppressing AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway
Authors: He Yi , Zhang Qimei , Chen Huan , Guo Qingxi , Zhang Liming , Zhang Zhuo , Li Yingchuan
Published: August 2020

In our study, we explored the effect of astragaloside IV (AgIV) on carboplatin chemotherapy in prostate cancer cell lines in vitro and in vivo. Cell viability assay, colony formation assay, flow cytometry, Western blot, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and tumor xenograft growth assay were conducted. We found that AgIV significantly decreased the half-maximal inhibitory concentration of carboplatin in prostate cancer cell lines LNCap and PC-3. Moreover, AgIV enhanced the effect of carboplatin in suppressing colony formation and inducing cell apoptosis. A low-dose carboplatin treatment upregulated N-cadherin and Vimentin expression and downregulated E-cadherin expression, but this effect was abolished by combining with AgIV. Carboplatin treatment increased the levels of p-AKT and p-p65 and decreased p-IκBα, but AgIV treatment suppressed this. In addition, AgIV synergized with carboplatin to suppress tumor xenograft growth of PC-3 cells, and decreased pAKT and p-p65 levels in vivo. Our results suggested that AgIV enhanced carboplatin sensitivity in prostate cancer cell lines by suppressing AKT/NF-κB signaling, thus suppressed epithelial–mesenchymal transition induced by carboplatin. Our findings provided a new mechanism for AgIV in overcoming drug resistance of platinum-based chemotherapy and suggested a potential combination therapy of AgIV and carboplatin in prostate cancer.
In vitro ruminal fermentation and methane inhibitory effect of three species of microalgae
Authors: Kiani Ali , Wolf Christina , Giller Katrin , Eggerschwiler Lukas , Kreuzer Michael , Schwarm Angela
Published: August 2020

In this study, in vitro ruminal fermentation, anti-methanogenesis, and ammonia formation of two autotrophic algae [Nannochloropsis gaditana (NG), Phaeodactylum tricornutum (PT)], and one heterotrophic alga [Schizochytrium sp. (SS)] were investigated. The experimental diets consisted of a hay-concentrate basal diet (BD; 200 mg dry matter) supplemented with (1) no algae (just BD), (2) 40 mg of dried NG (BD + NG), (3) 40 mg of dried PT (BD + PT), and (4) 14 mg of dried SS. In total, 48 samples (four algal treatments × two replicates × three runs × two cows) were incubated for 24 h using the Hohenheim gas test method. All three algae decreased (P < 0.05) the production of short-chain fatty acids and protozoal abundance (both adjusted in amount to BD) as compared with BD. Ammonia formation of BD + NG and BD + PT was 1.2- and 1.1-fold of values in BD, respectively. The BD + NG diet enhanced the proportions of isobutyrate, valerate, and isovalerate at cost of acetate proportion of total short-chain fatty acids, whereas the BD + PT diet promoted the proportions of propionate and valerate at cost of acetate. None of the microalgae affected in vitro methane formation. In conclusion, these algae showed a very poor fermentability and no anti-methanogenic effect in vitro.
Effect of gap size on composition and structure of regeneration 19 years after harvest in a southeastern bottomland forest, USA
Authors: McNab W. Henry , Kilgo John C. , Blake John I. , Zarnoch Stanley J.
Published: August 2020

Following timber harvests in bottomland mixed-oak (Quercus L.) stands, desirable oak advance regeneration can be overgrown by shade-intolerant pioneer species. We investigated the effects of group selection opening size on composition of tree regeneration 19 years postharvest in an oak-dominated bottomland forest and compared results with earlier findings to evaluate development trends. In response to six opening sizes (7–40 m radii), we evaluated regeneration density and dominance of four tree species groups: conifers, hard mast, shade-intolerant hardwoods, and shade-tolerant hardwoods. Our objectives were to determine the optimum gap size for regenerating oaks and test the delayed oak dominance hypothesis, in which oaks slowly gain dominance as pioneer species undergo self-thinning. Opening size influenced conifer regeneration but minimally affected hardwoods. Hard mast species density was less than that of either intolerant or tolerant species regardless of opening size. Future stem density trends suggest increasing intolerant species and constant mast and tolerant species. Modeled future height trends suggest increasing mast species dominance over intolerant pioneers after 30 years. Our results suggest that gap-based silviculture can be used to regenerate bottomland hardwood stands with desirable species including oaks; larger gaps favor conifers but there was no optimum size to enhance oak regeneration.
Relativistic approach to the kinematics of large-scale peculiar motions
Authors: Tsaprazi Eleni , Tsagas Christos G.
Published: August 2020

We consider the linear kinematics of large-scale peculiar motions in a perturbed Friedmann universe. In so doing, we take the viewpoint of the “real” observers that move along with the peculiar flow, relative to the smooth Hubble expansion. Using relativistic cosmological perturbation theory, we study the linear evolution of the peculiar velocity field, as well as the expansion/contraction, the shear and the rotation of the bulk motion. Our solutions show growth rates considerably stronger than those of the earlier treatments, which were mostly Newtonian. On scales near and beyond the Hubble radius, namely at the long-wavelength limit, peculiar velocities are found to grow as $$a^2$$a2, in terms of the scale factor, instead of the Newtonian $$a^{1/2}$$a1/2-law. We attribute this to the fact that, in general relativity, the energy flux, triggered here by the peculiar motion of the matter, also contributes to the local gravitational field. In a sense, the bulk flow gravitates, an effect that has been bypassed in related relativistic studies. These stronger growth-rates imply faster peculiar velocities at horizon crossing and higher residual values for the peculiar-velocity field. Alternatively, one could say that our study favours bulk peculiar flows larger and faster than anticipated.
OIL PRICE FLUCTUATIONS AND ENERGY COMMODITY PRICES: AN ANALYSIS OF ASYMMETRIC EFFECTS
Authors: LE THAI-HA , CHANG YOUNGHO , PARK DONGHYUN
Published: August 2020

Previous studies mostly ignore possible nonlinear behaviors that may be caused by asymmetry, persistence, or structural breaks. This study aims to fill this gap by applying the Nonlinear Autoregressive Distributed Lag technique of Shin et al. [( 2014 ). Modelling asymmetric cointegration and dynamic multipliers in a nonlinear ARDL framework. In Festschrift in Honor of Peter Schmidt: Econometric Methods and Applications, pp. 281–314. New York: Springer] to examine the dynamic effect of oil prices on other energy prices based on nonlinear empirical frameworks. We identify how oil prices and four other energy commodity prices behave using daily data from January 07, 1991 to February 25, 2020. The long-run relationships suggest both oil price increases and decreases are significantly and positively related to the prices of all other energy commodities. There seems to be asymmetry in the linkages between oil prices and all the prices of diesel fuel, gasoline, heating oil and natural gas in the long run. Except for natural gas, the effects of oil price increases are significantly larger than those of oil price decreases. However, in the short run, the results are somewhat different. An asymmetric impact of oil price changes is found for gasoline and the effects of oil price decreases are larger than those of oil price increases. In our model, the real effective exchange rate of the US dollar is explicitly incorporated to capture the linkages between US dollar fluctuations and energy price movements. We find that the relative weakness of the US dollar strengthens the prices of energy commodities in the global market.
Effect of low-frequency vibrations on MRR, EWR and Ra in powder-mixed electrical discharge machining
Authors: Le Quang Dung , Nguyen Huu Phan , Banh Tien Long , Nguyen Duc Toan
Published: August 2020

In this study, the effects of low-frequency vibrations on machining SKD61 steel workpiece in electrical discharge machining (EDM) with titanium powder-mixed dielectric fluid were investigated. The results showed that the vibrations incorporated into the workpiece in powder-mixed EDM (PMEDM) led to significant improvement in machining efficiency. The material removal rate had the maximum increase of 141.7% with 70.2% of lower electrode wear rate and 69.9% of lower surface roughness. Hence, it is proved that the effectiveness of vibration in PMEDM can be improved.
An efficient circle-type multiparty quantum key agreement protocol with single particles
Authors: Tang R.-H. , Zhang C. , Long D.-Y.
Published: August 2020

An efficient circle-type multiparty quantum key agreement protocol utilizing two non-orthogonal bases single particles is proposed. In our protocol, each participant performs one of two simple unitary operations to encode and additional unitary operations to protect his privacy. Both outside attacks and participant attacks can be perfectly resisted. Moreover, our protocol has a high efficiency up to [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is the number of the participants, and it can be easily implemented with current quantum technologies as it needs only single particle measurements.
Optimistic Variants of Single-Objective Bilevel Optimization for Evolutionary Algorithms
Authors: Sharma Anuraganand
Published: August 2020

Single-objective bilevel optimization is a specialized form of constraint optimization problems where one of the constraints is an optimization problem itself. These problems are typically non-convex and strongly NP-Hard. Recently, there has been an increased interest from the evolutionary computation community to model bilevel problems due to its applicability in real-world applications for decision-making problems. In this work, a partial nested evolutionary approach with a local heuristic search has been proposed to solve the benchmark problems and have outstanding results. This approach relies on the concept of intermarriage-crossover in search of feasible regions by exploiting information from the constraints. A new variant has also been proposed to the commonly used convergence approaches, i.e., optimistic and pessimistic. It is called an extreme optimistic approach. The experimental results demonstrate the algorithm converges differently to known optimum solutions with the optimistic variants. Optimistic approach also outperforms pessimistic approach. Comparative statistical analysis of our approach with other recently published partial to complete evolutionary approaches demonstrates very competitive results.
Classification of pyrite types using fractal and stepwise factor analyses in the Chah Zard gold-silver epithermal deposit, Central Iran
Authors: Kouhestani Hossein , Ghaderi Majid , Afzal Peyman , Zaw Khin
Published: August 2020

The major target of this research is the classification of pyrite types using fractal and stepwise factor analyses in the Chah Zard ore deposit, Central Iran. The ore occurs within a breccia/vein type and the major ore mineral hosting gold mineralization is pyrite. In this study, data were selected using optical, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and backscattered electron observations as well as laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (LA-ICP–MS) analysis. Conventional interpretations represent four gold-bearing pyrite types of various textures including fractured and porous Py1, oscillatory-rimmed and simple-zoned Py2, colloform Py3 and inclusion-rich Py4. The stepwise factor process was performed on the centred log ratio (clr) transformed data in two phases and Au was grouped with As, Te, Ni and Co in the second factor from the second stage (F2-2). Also, C-N fractal modelling was performed on the As, Au, Te and F2-2 values, all of which demonstrate multifractal nature. Four populations were separated based on F2-2 values and the C-N log–log plot. The main gold mineralization starts from 32 ppm, 2.8%, 7.94 ppm and 1.26 for Au, As, Te concentrations and F2-2, respectively, based on the C-N fractal modelling. These values are correlated with inclusion-rich Py4 and simple-zoned and oscillatory-rimmed Py2. The results obtained in this study show that fractal interpretation of LA-ICP–MS data by stepwise factor analysis may provide a suitable tool for the recognition of ore mineralization in epithermal gold deposits.
Design Guidelines for an Interactive 3D Model as a Supporting Tool for Exploring a Cultural Site by Visually Impaired and Sighted People
Authors: Leporini Barbara , Rossetti Valentina , Furfari Francesco , Pelagatti Susanna , Quarta Andrea
Published: August 2020

Being able to explore and familiarise themselves with the structure and details of a cultural site before actually visiting it is fundamental for orienting visually impaired people during the visit; otherwise, it is particularly difficult to gain a global understanding of the structure and an overall impression of a square, a church, or a large monument. Our project addressed this problem by using low cost 3D models combined with audio descriptions to enable visually impaired users to explore the cultural site autonomously. Audio descriptions are organised into three groups (for historical, practical, and architectural information), and for each group, several tracks are recorded giving increasing levels of details. Users can easily navigate through the audio tracks to follow their tactile exploration by listening to the information they are most interested in. Relevant details are reproduced separately and linked to the main model via the audio tracks. A goal of our model is to enhance the understanding of the cultural site also for partially sighted as well as sighted people, making them able to appreciate the details of the architectural design using both visual and auditory senses. We exploited low-cost and partially open-source technologies, thus rendering our system easily replicable. We evaluated the interactive system with blind, partially sighted, and sighted users. Our user test confirmed the validity of our approach: (1) the 3D models and the tactile reproduction of details obtained via a low-cost 3D printing solution are well perceived by touch; (2) the semantic auditory information activated via perceptible buttons on demand and the different content levels for the audio tracks are suitable for an interactive, autonomous, and satisfying exploration; and (3) relevant details are well perceived. Finally, we propose guidelines to use in the 3D reproduction of buildings or large sites based on our experience.
Use of an Indoor Navigation System by Sighted and Blind Travelers
Authors: Giudice Nicholas A. , Guenther Benjamin A. , Kaplan Toni M. , Anderson Shane M. , Knuesel Robert J. , Cioffi Joseph F.
Published: August 2020

This article first reviews the pros and cons of current accessible indoor navigation systems and then describes a study using commercial smart devices to navigate routes through a complex building. Our interest was in comparing performance when using real-time narrative descriptions (system-aided condition) vs. a memory-based condition where the same narrative information was only provided to users from the route's origin. We tested two groups of blind and visually impaired (BVI) users, including people above and below 60 years of age, as well as a third sighted control group. Evaluating older BVI participants is important, as the majority of vision loss is age-related, yet navigation performance using access technology is rarely studied with this demographic. Behavioral results demonstrated that access to real-time (system-aided) information led to better navigation accuracy and greater confidence by blind users compared to the information-matched memory condition. Performance for blind participants over 60 years old was nearly identical with their younger peers—an important outcome supporting the efficacy of using navigational technologies by this fast-growing population. Route completion accuracy and requests for assistance did not reliably differ between blind and sighted participants when using the system, suggesting that access to narrative route information led to functionally equivalent navigation behavior, irrespective of visual status. Survey results revealed strong user support for real-time information and provided important guidance for future interface refinements.
An overview of deregulated lipid metabolism in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease with special focus on lysosomal acid lipase
Authors: Carotti Simone , Aquilano Katia , Valentini Francesco , Ruggiero Sergio , Alletto Francesca , Morini Sergio , Picardi Antonio , Antonelli-Incalzi Raffaele , Lettieri-Barbato Daniele , Vespasiani-Gentilucci Umberto
Published: August 2020

Obesity and type 2 diabetes are frequently complicated by excess fat accumulation in the liver, which is known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). In this context, liver steatosis develops as a result of the deregulation of pathways controlling de novo lipogenesis and fat catabolism. Recent evidences suggest the clinical relevance of a reduction in the activity of lysosomal acid lipase (LAL), which is a key enzyme for intracellular fat disposal, in patients with NAFLD. In this review, we provided a comprehensive overview of the critical steps in hepatic fat metabolism and alterations in these pathways in NAFLD, with a special focus on lipophagy and LAL activity. During NAFLD, hepatic fat metabolism is impaired at several levels, which is significantly contributed to by impaired lipophagy, in which reduced LAL activity may play an important role. For further research and intervention in NAFLD, targeting LAL activity may provide interesting perspectives.
Blood pressure and albuminuria in a female mouse model of systemic lupus erythematosus: impact of long-term high salt consumption
Authors: Dent Elena L. , Broome Hanna J. , Sasser Jennifer M. , Ryan Michael J.
Published: August 2020

Hypertension and kidney involvement are common in patients with autoimmune disease. Sodium intake is linked to hypertension in both human and animal studies. Evidence suggests that dietary salt may be an important environmental factor that promotes autoimmune activity. Therefore, we hypothesized that a long-term high-salt diet would accelerate the progression of autoimmunity, hypertension, and albuminuria during systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), an autoimmune disease that predominantly affects young women and has a high prevalence of hypertension and renal disease. To test this hypothesis, an established experimental model of SLE (female NZBWF1 mice) that develops hypertension and renal disease was used. SLE mice were fed a high-salt (4% NaCl) or normal (0.4% NaCl) diet for 24 wk beginning at 10 wk of age and ending at 34 wk of age, a time by which female NZBWF1 mice typically have hypertension and exhibit signs of renal disease. Plasma anti-dsDNA autoantibodies were measured as an indicator of active SLE disease, and urinary albumin was monitored longitudinally as a marker of renal disease. Arterial pressure was measured in conscious, freely moving mice at 34 wk of age. Urinary endothelin-1 (ET-1) excretion, renal endothelin A and B receptor protein expression, and renal mRNA expression of NOS1, NOS2, NOX2, MCP-1, TNF-α, serum- and glucocorticoid-regulated kinase 1, and interleukin-2 (IL-2) were assessed to determine the impact on gene products commonly altered by a high-salt diet. SLE mice fed a high-salt diet had increased circulating autoantibodies, but the high-salt diet did not significantly affect albuminuria or arterial pressure. Urinary ET-1 excretion was increased, whereas renal endothelin A receptor and IL-2 expression were decreased in response to a high-salt diet. These data suggest that a chronic high-salt diet may not accelerate cardiovascular and renal consequences commonly associated with SLE.
Manual Therapy (Postisometric Relaxation and Joint Mobilization) in Knee Pain and Function Experienced by Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Randomized Clinical Pilot Study
Authors: Romanowski Mateusz Wojciech , Špiritović Maja , Romanowski Wojciech , Straburzyńska-Lupa Anna
Published: August 2020

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of manual therapy on the management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients with knee pain. Materials and Methods. This was a small, randomized clinical pilot study. Subjects were 46 patients with diagnosed RA, randomly assigned to the manual therapy group (postisometric relaxation and joint mobilization) or control group (standard exercise). Subjects in each group had 10 sessions of interventions, once a day with one day break after the sixth day. Outcomes included the pain intensity of knee, Knee Society Score, Oxford Knee Score, and Health Assessment Questionnaire. Results. There were no statistically significant differences between groups, except for the pain intensity of the knee. Conclusions. This study suggests that manual therapy (postisometric relaxation and joint mobilization) may have clinical benefits for treating knee pain and function in rheumatoid patients. Further extended studies are expected to determine the effectiveness of manual therapy in RA patients with knee pain.
Removal of Perfluorooctanoic Acid and Microcystins from Drinking Water by Electrocoagulation
Authors: Opoku-Duah Stephen , Johnson Dennis
Published: August 2020

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and microcystins are some of the well-known chemical contaminants in drinking water in the USA. Despite the availability of filtration technologies like ion-exchange resins, activated-carbon, and high-pressure membrane filters, these contaminants still remain widespread in the environment. In the present study, two innovative aspects of electrocoagulation techniques were tested, (a) cheap and easy-to-operate field-unit instead of hi-tech electrocoagulation and (b) reverse-polarity instead of conventional polarity, and applied to remove PFOA and microcystins from drinking water sources. The method presented here outperformed commercial activated-carbon filtration by nearly 40%. When the efficiency of electrocoagulation was examined in terms of voltage discharge, pH, and reverse-polarity, the results averaged 80% decontamination for individual treatment, while their combined effects produced 100% detoxification in 10–40 minutes, exceeding recently published results. The method shows great economic promise for water and wastewater treatment and chemical recycling.
Yiqi Fumai Injection as an Adjuvant Therapy in Treating Chronic Heart Failure: A Meta‐Analysis of 33 Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Nie Heyun , Li Shuqing , Liu Meilu , Zhu Weifeng , Zhou Xu , Yan Dongmei
Published: August 2020

Background. Yiqi Fumai injection (YQFM) is a traditional Chinese medicine widely used for cardiovascular diseases in China. This systematic review aimed to evaluate whether YQFM could be an effective and safe complementary therapy for chronic heart failure (CHF). Methods. Eight electronic literature databases were searched up to March 31, 2020. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing YQFM + conventional treatment with conventional treatment alone for CHF were included. The primary outcome was response to treatment, which was graded by improvements in heart function based on the New York Heart Association (NYHA) criteria, while the secondary outcomes included the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), cardiac output, left ventricular end‐systolic diameter (LVESD), amino‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP), 6‐minute walk test performance (6MWT), quality of life (QoL) as assessed by the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure questionnaire, and adverse reactions. Data from individual RCTs were pooled by a random‐effects meta‐analysis with effect measures of proportional odds ratios (pORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for the ordinal outcomes and the mean difference (MD) and 95% CI for the continuous outcomes. Results. In total, 33 RCTs involving 3070 patients with an overall moderate‐to‐high risk of bias were selected. The meta‐analysis showed that compared with conventional treatment alone, YQFM plus conventional treatment had a significantly higher likelihood of improving the response to treatment (pOR 1.88, 95% CI 1.47 to 2.42, I2 = 0%). YQFM also significantly improved the LVEF (MD 5.53%, 95% CI 4.73 to 6.33, I2 = 82%), cardiac output (MD 0.32 L/min, 95% CI 0.19 to 0.45, I2 = 47%), and LVESD (MD −3.73 mm, 95% CI −5.51 to −1.95, I2 = 22%), reduced the NT‐proBNP levels (MD −341.83 pg/mL, 95% CI −417.89 to −265.77, I2 = 88%), and improved the 6MWT (MD 61.86 m, 95% CI 45.05 to 78.67, I2 = 64%) and QoL (MD −9.82, 95% CI −14.17 to −5.46, I2 = 81%). No serious adverse events related to YQFM were reported. Conclusion. Although limited by a moderate‐to‐high risk of bias, the current evidence suggests that YQFM as a complementary treatment significantly improves heart function and related indicators in patients with CHF. The clinical use of YQFM needs careful safety monitoring. Well‐designed studies are still required to further evaluate the efficacy and safety of YQFM for CHF.
Manufacturer’s Business Strategy: Interaction of Sharing Economy and Product Rollover
Authors: Feng Jian , Liu Bin , Liu Zhenfeng
Published: August 2020

This paper develops an analytical framework to study a manufacturer’s optimal business strategy involving the interaction of product sharing and product rollover in the sharing economy. Our analysis reveals that, regardless of whether the production cost is high or low, the manufacturer will participate in product sharing as long as the new product’s rental cost is not very high. Furthermore, under the manufacturer’s participation in product sharing, the manufacturer will sell two generations of products when the production cost is low. When the production cost is moderate, the manufacturer will adopt single rollover. Finally, the manufacturer’s participation in product sharing will increase the old/new product’s price and the manufacturer’s total profits but will decrease the old/new product’s demand in the sales market. Meanwhile, the manufacturer’s product sharing will decrease the price and demand of idle products from owners in the sharing market.