bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Course of DISease In patients reported to the Swedish CPAP Oxygen and VEntilator RegistrY (DISCOVERY) with population-based controls
Authors: Palm Andreas , Ågren Krister , Grote Ludger , Ljunggren Mirjam , Midgren Bengt , Sundh Josefin , Theorell-Haglöw J , Ekström Magnus
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Chronic hypoxic and hypercapnic respiratory failure and obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) are chronic diseases associated with decreased quality of life and increased mortality. The rationale behind the set up the retrospective nationwide DISCOVERY cohort was to study several questions including disease course and risk factors for incident disease, impaired quality of life, hospitalisation risk and mortality in patients with chronic respiratory failure with long-term oxygen therapy (LTOT), long-term mechanical ventilation (LTMV) and obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) on treatment with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP).

Participants and settings

Data from the national quality registry for respiratory insufficiency and sleep apnoea (Swedevox) and a population-based control group from Statistics Sweden were merged with governmental registries, the Swedish Cancer Registry, the Swedish Cause of Death Registry, the Swedish Drug registry, the Swedish National Patient Registry and the Swedish Dental Health Registry and with national quality registries for diabetes, rheumatic diseases (Swedish Rheumatology Quality Registry), stroke (RiksStroke), heart failure (RiksSvikt), acute heart infarction care (SwedeHeart) and intensive care (SIR) and with socioeconomic data from Statistics Sweden (SCB).

Findings to date

The cohort comprises 25 804 unique patients with LTOT since 1987 (54.1% females, age 73.3±9.8 years, body mass index (BMI) 26.6±6.5 kg/m2), 8111 with LTMV since 1996 (48.6% women, age 60.6±16.9 years, BMI 32.9±10.8 kg/m2), 65 809 with OSA on CPAP since 2010 (29.5% women, age 57.2±12.5 years, BMI 31.9±6.2 kg/m2) and 145 224 persons in a population-based control group from same time span up to March 2018 (51.7% women, age 49.9±20.4 year, BMI 24.9±4.0 years).

Future plans

In patients with chronic respiratory failure and sleep apnoea important questions regarding comorbidity burden, hospitalisation rate, mortality and treatment outcomes are still unexplored to a large extent. The DISCOVERY cohort will provide unique opportunities by its size and comprehensiveness to fill this clinically relevant gap of knowledge.
Does intermittent exposure to high altitude increase the risk of cardiovascular disease in workers? A systematic narrative review
Authors: Aragón-Vela Jerónimo , Bejder Jacob , R Huertas Jesús , Plaza-Diaz Julio , Nordsborg Nikolai B
Published: November 2020

Objective

Several working groups (eg, miners, flight crews and soldiers) are subjected to chronic intermittent hypoxic exposure. The cardiovascular implications have been studied but not systematically reviewed with focus on possible negative health implications. The aim of the present review was to systematically evaluate the hypothesis that intermittent hypoxic exposure causes cardiovascular stress detrimental to health in workers.

Design

Systematic review.

Data sources

Electronic database search of PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science up to April 2020.

Eligibility criteria

Studies of workers ≥18 years repeatedly subjected to months to years of irregular intermittent hypoxia, lasting from a few hours (eg, flight crews), one or a few days (eg, soldiers), or several days to weeks (eg, miners working at high altitude), written in English and evaluating the effect of intermittent hypoxia on cardiovascular disease were included. Animal studies, books, book chapters, personal communication and abstracts were excluded. The primary outcome measure was changes in standardised mortality ratio.

Data extraction and synthesis

Two independent reviewers extracted data and assessed risk of bias using the Cochrane Collaboration’s tool.

Results

119 articles were identified initially, 31 of which met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 17 were retrospective cohort mortality studies (irregular short-term intermittent hypoxia), and 14 studies were observational (long-term intermittent hypoxia). The population of irregular short-term intermittent hypoxia users (flight crew) showed a lower mortality by cardiovascular disease. Long-term intermittent hypoxia over several years such as in miners or soldiers may produce increased levels of cardiac disorders (12 studies), though this is probably confounded by factors such as obesity and socioeconomic status.

Conclusion

This systematic narrative review found that cardiovascular disease mortality in flight crews is lower than average, whereas miners and soldiers exposed to intermittent hypoxia experience increased risks of cardiovascular diseases. The impact of socioeconomic status and lifestyle appears of importance.

PROSPERO registry number

CRD42020171301.
Effects of smart garments on the well-being of athletes: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Al Mahmud Abdullah , Wickramarathne Tharushi Indeewari , Kuys Blair
Published: November 2020

Introduction

With the advancements in wearable electronics, electronically integrated smart garments started to transpire in our daily lives. Smart garment technologies are incorporated into sportswear applications to enhance the well-being and performance of athletes. Smart garments applications in the sports sector are increasing, and the variety of smart garment applications available in the literature is overwhelming. Therefore, it is essential to compare the vast array of technologies incorporated in smart garments for athletes to understand the knowledge gaps for future studies. The protocol paper aims to examine the smart garments used in the sports domain to enhance the health and well-being of athletes.

Methods and analysis

Relevant studies will be retrieved using predefined search terms from Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct, PubMed and IEEE Xplore. The retrieved articles will be eliminated in two phases: title and abstract screening and full-text screening. The included articles will be primary studies published in the English language within the last 10 years. Subsequently, the included articles will be further studied to extract data using a data extraction form. The extracted data will undergo a thematic analysis. Also, quantitative analysis will be carried out using descriptive statistics.

Ethics and dissemination

The results of this review will provide a comprehensive understanding of smart garment concepts used in the sports domain. The findings of this scoping review will be shared through a journal publication and a conference presentation. Ethical approval is not needed for this scoping review.

Protocol registration number

DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/34MF2 (https://osf.io/34mf2)
Understanding public preferences and trade-offs for government responses during a pandemic: a protocol for a discrete choice experiment in the UK
Authors: Genie Mesfin G , Loría-Rebolledo Luis Enrique , Paranjothy Shantini , Powell Daniel , Ryan Mandy , Sakowsky Ruben Andreas , Watson Verity
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Social distancing and lockdown measures are among the main government responses to the COVID-19 pandemic. These measures aim to limit the COVID-19 infection rate and reduce the mortality rate of COVID-19. Given we are likely to see local lockdowns until a treatment or vaccine for COVID-19 is available, and their effectiveness depends on public acceptability, it is important to understand public preference for government responses.

Methods and analysis

Using a discrete choice experiment (DCE), this study will investigate the public’s preferences for pandemic responses in the UK. Attributes (and levels) are based on: (1) lockdown measures described in policy documents; (2) literature on preferences for lockdown measures and (3) a social media analysis. Attributes include: lockdown type; lockdown length; postponement of usual non-urgent medical care; number of excess deaths; number of infections; impact on household spending and job losses. We will prepilot the DCE using virtual think aloud interviews with respondents recruited via Facebook. We will collect preference data using an online survey of 4000 individuals from across the four UK countries (1000 per country). We will estimate the relative importance of the attributes, and the trade-offs individuals are willing to make between attributes. We will test if respondents’ preferences differ based on moral attitudes (using the Moral Foundation Questionnaire), socioeconomic circumstances (age, education, economic insecurity, health status), country of residence and experience of COVID-19.

Ethics and dissemination

The University of Aberdeen’s College Ethics Research Board (CERB) has approved the study (reference: CERB/2020/6/1974). We will seek CERB approval for major changes from the developmental and pilot work. Peer-reviewed papers will be submitted, and results will be presented at public health and health economic conferences nationally and internationally. A lay summary will be published on the Health Economics Research Unit blog.
Feasibility and acceptability of implementing early infant diagnosis of HIV in Papua New Guinea at the point of care: a qualitative exploration of health worker and key informant perspectives
Authors: Mohamed Yasmin , Kupul Martha , Gare Janet , Badman Steven G , Silim Selina , Vallely Andrew J , Luchters Stanley , Kelly-Hanku Angela
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Early infant diagnosis (EID) of HIV and timely initiation of antiretroviral therapy can significantly reduce morbidity and mortality among HIV-positive infants. Access to EID is limited in many low-income and middle-income settings, particularly those in which standard care involves dried blood spots (DBS) sent to centralised laboratories, such as in Papua New Guinea (PNG). We conducted a qualitative exploration of the feasibility and acceptability of implementing a point-of-care (POC) EID test (Xpert HIV-1 Qualitative assay) among health workers and key stakeholders working within the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) programme in PNG.

Methods

This qualitative substudy was conducted as part of a pragmatic trial to investigate the effectiveness of the Xpert HIV-1 Qualitative test for EID in PNG and Myanmar. Semistructured interviews were undertaken with 5 health workers and 13 key informants to explore current services, experiences of EID testing, perspectives on the Xpert test and the feasibility of integrating and scaling up POC EID in PNG. Coding was undertaken using inductive and deductive approaches, drawing on existing acceptability and feasibility frameworks.

Results

Health workers and key informants (N=18) felt EID at POC was feasible to implement and beneficial to HIV-exposed infants and their families, staff and the PMTCT programme more broadly. All study participants highlighted starting HIV-positive infants on treatment immediately as the main advantage of POC EID compared with standard care DBS testing. Health workers identified insufficient resources to follow up infants and caregivers and space constraints in hospitals as barriers to implementation. Participants emphasised the importance of adequate human resources, ongoing training and support, appropriate coordination and a sustainable supply of consumables to ensure effective scale-up of the test throughout PNG.

Conclusions

Implementation of POC EID in a low HIV prevalence setting such as PNG is likely to be both feasible and beneficial with careful planning and adequate resources.

Trial registration number

12616000734460.
BEAM study (Breathing, Education, Awareness, Movement): a randomised controlled feasibility trial of tai chi exercise in patients with COPD
Authors: Yeh Gloria Y. , Litrownik Daniel , Wayne Peter M. , Beach Douglas , Klings Elizabeth S. , Reyes Nieva Harry , Pinheiro Adlin , Davis Roger B. , Moy Marilyn L.
Published: November 2020

Background

Despite therapeutic advances, the management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) remains complex. There is growing interest in multidimensional, mind-body exercises to improve both physical and psychosocial aspects of COPD burden. Few US data are available in this population on tai chi (TC) a mind-body exercise incorporating physical activity, breathing and mindful awareness. We explored feasibility and preliminary efficacy of TC in COPD in an US academic medical setting.

Methods

Patients with COPD Global Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) stages 2–4 were randomised to a 12-week TC programme or education control. At 12 weeks, those in TC were randomised again to continue in maintenance classes or not to further explore optimal duration. All groups were followed to 24 weeks. Feasibility/safety parameters were analysed descriptively. Preliminary between-group differences were estimated in symptoms (dyspnoea, fatigue), health-related quality-of-life (Chronic Respiratory Questionnaire CRQ), cognitive-emotional measures (mood, COPD self-efficacy) and functional status (6 min walk test, lower body strength, flexibility, physical activity).

Results

Ninety-two subjects were randomised (N=61 TC, N=31 education). Mean age was 68±8 years, 66% male, mean forced expiratory volume in 1 s % predicted 57±13, 28% were GOLD stage 3–4. Overall retention was 85%. Nineteen adverse events occurred, most being study-unrelated COPD exacerbations. From baseline to 12 weeks, there were between-group improvements favouring TC, in CRQ-total (Cohen’s d effect size (ES)=0.46; adj mean diff (AMD)=0.31), CRQ-emotion (ES=0.54; AMD=0.49), Centre for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (ES=−0.37; AMD=2.39) and Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System (PROMIS)-fatigue (ES=−0.34; AMD=−0.17). From baseline to 24 weeks, there was an improvement favouring TC in CRQ-dyspnoea (ES=0.41; AMD=0.46). Among TC participants, there was a positive effect of maintenance classes on self-efficacy (ES=−0.69; AMD=−0.40), 6 min walk (ES=0.56; AMD=49.26 feet), PROMIS-fatigue (ES=−0.41; AMD=−0.28) and chair stand (0.43; AMD=0.56).

Conclusion

TC in patients with COPD is feasible and safe. Preliminary analyses support a potential modest role in improving quality-of-life, cognitive-emotional health and function that should be further studied.

Trial registration number

NCT01551953.

IRB reference

BIDMC 2010P-000412; VA 2540.
Direct access lifestyle training improves liver biochemistry and causes weight loss but uptake is suboptimal in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Patanwala Imran , Molnar Lili Emese , Akerboom Katherine , Lane Katie Elizabeth
Published: November 2020

Objective

To evaluate the uptake and effectiveness of an existing open access lifestyle intervention forged in collaboration between a third sector organisation, funded by local government and a secondary care non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) service in the North West of England.

Method

A service outcome evaluation using precomparison design and postcomparison design was conducted to analyse changes between baseline clinical health records and 12-week follow-up for patients with NAFLD who completed the lifestyle intervention. Lifestyle factors, weight loss, changes in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) enzymes and lipid profiles were compared between patients who completed the programme vs 1:1 matched patients who did not.

Results

Only 16 of 167 patients with NAFLD offered the intervention completed the programme. Intervention patients achieved significant weight loss (−2.3% p≤0.05) over 12 weeks, where the non-intervention group had non-significant weight gain (+0.95%). ALT improved by 20.6 IU/L in the interventional group and 15.75 IU/L in the non-intervention group; however, this was not statistically different.

Conclusion

This study presents first of its kind evaluation of a service collaboration in the UK. Only 1 in 10 patients offered the opportunity completed the programme, a limitation that could affect future strategies. Patient and public involvement research is needed to identify barriers to participation, address adherence issues and identify support mechanisms for lifestyle interventions in patients with NAFLD.
Clinicopathologic characteristics of HER2-positive metaplastic squamous cell carcinoma of the breast
Authors: Lei Ting , Pu Tianjie , Wei Bing , Fan Yingying , Yang Libo , Shen Mengjia , Chen Min , Yang Jieliang , Zhang Yu , Zhang Zhang , Bu Hong
Published: November 2020

Aims

The aim of this study was to analyse the clinicopathological features and prognosis of human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2)-positive metaplastic squamous cell carcinoma (MSCC).

Methods

Fifty-eight patients with MSCC of the breast who were classified into 45 triple-negative and 13 HER2-positive subgroups diagnosed at the West China Hospital, Sichuan University, from 2004 to 2018, were enrolled. Clinicopathological features were collected and compared between HER2-positive MSCC, triple-negative MSCC, HER2-positive invasive breast carcinoma of no special type (NST) and triple-negative NST groups. In the prognostic survival analysis, HER2-positive MSCCs was compared with triple-negative MSCCs, HER2-positive NSTs and triple-negative NSTs.

Results

Compared with triple-negative MSCCs, more patients with Ki-67 low expression were in HER2-positive MSCCs (p<0.05). More patients with HER2-positive MSCC than patients with HER2-positive NST were postmenopausal (p<0.05). Compared among HER2-positive MSCCs, triple-negative MSCCs and triple-negative NSTs, patients of HER2-positive MSCCs with high Ki-67 expression were the least, and HER2-positive MSCCs had more strongly associated with postmenopausal disease status (p<0.05). In survival analyses, HER2-positive MSCCs had a high risk of recurrence and poor prognosis (p<0.05). Lymph node status was significantly associated with the disease-free survival of patients with HER2-positive MSCC.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our study indicates that HER2-positive MSCC is an aggressive disease with unique clinicopathological characteristics. Both HER2-positive status and an SCC component are critical factors for poor prognosis. HER2-positive MSCC and triple-negative MSCC are distinct subgroups. Corresponding targeted therapy recommendations should be made for this HER2-positive MSCC group.
Early changes in immune cell subsets with corticosteroids in patients with solid tumors: implications for COVID-19 management
Authors: Marté Jennifer L , Toney Nicole J , Cordes Lisa , Schlom Jeffrey , Donahue Renee N , Gulley James L
Published: November 2020

Background

The risk–benefit calculation for corticosteroid administration in the management of COVID-19 is complex and urgently requires data to inform the decision. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is a marker of systemic inflammation associated with poor prognosis in both COVID-19 and cancer. Investigating NLR as an inflammatory marker and lymphocyte levels as a critical component of antiviral immunity may inform the dilemma of reducing toxic hyperinflammation while still maintaining effective antiviral responses.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of NLR, absolute neutrophil counts (ANCs) and absolute lymphocyte counts (ALCs) in patients with cancer enrolled in immunotherapy trials who received moderate-dose to high-dose corticosteroids. We compared paired presteroid and available poststeroid initiation values daily during week 1 and again on day 14 using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Associated immune subsets by flow cytometry were included where available.

Results

Patients (n=48) with a variety of solid tumors received prednisone, methylprednisolone, or dexamethasone alone or in combination in doses ranging from 20 to 190 mg/24 hours (prednisone equivalent). The median NLR prior to steroid administration was elevated at 5.0 (range: 0.9–61.2). The corresponding median ANC was 5.1 K/µL (range: 2.03–22.31 K/µL) and ALC was 1.03 K/µL (0.15–2.57 K/µL). One day after steroid administration, there was a significant transient drop in median ALC to 0.54 K/µL (p=0.0243), driving an increase in NLR (median 10.8, p=0.0306). Relative lymphopenia persisted through day 14 but was no longer statistically significant. ANC increased steadily over time, becoming significant at day 4 (median: 7.31 K/µL, p=0.0171) and remaining significantly elevated through day 14. NLR was consistently elevated after steroid initiation, significantly at days 1, 7 (median: 8.2, p=0.0272), and 14 (median: 15.0, p=0.0018). Flow cytometry data from 11 patients showed significant decreases in activated CD4 cells and effector memory CD8 cells.

Conclusions

The early drop in ALC with persistent lymphopenia as well as the prolonged ANC elevation seen in response to corticosteroid administration are similar to trends associated with increased mortality in several coronavirus studies to include the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. The affected subsets are essential for effective antiviral immunity. This may have implications for glucocorticoid therapy for COVID-19.
Transcriptome analysis of IPF fibroblastic foci identifies key pathways involved in fibrogenesis
Authors: Guillotin Delphine , Taylor Adam R , Platé Manuela , Mercer Paul F , Edwards Lindsay M , Haggart Ross , Miele Gino , McAnulty Robin J , Maher Toby M , Hynds Robert E , Jamal-Hanjani Mariam , Marshall Richard P , Fisher Andrew J , Blanchard Andy D , Chambers Rachel C
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Fibroblastic foci represent the cardinal pathogenic lesion in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and comprise activated fibroblasts and myofibroblasts, the key effector cells responsible for dysregulated extracellular matrix deposition in multiple fibrotic conditions. The aim of this study was to define the major transcriptional programmes involved in fibrogenesis in IPF by profiling unmanipulated myofibroblasts within fibrotic foci in situ by laser capture microdissection.

Methods

The challenges associated with deriving gene calls from low amounts of RNA and the absence of a meaningful comparator cell type were overcome by adopting novel data mining strategies and by using weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), as well as aneigengene-based approach to identify transcriptional signatures, which correlate with fibrillar collagen gene expression.

Results

WGCNA identified prominent clusters of genes associated with cell cycle, inflammation/differentiation, translation and cytoskeleton/cell adhesion. Collagen eigengene analysis revealed that transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1), RhoA kinase and the TSC2/RHEB axis formed major signalling clusters associated with collagen gene expression. Functional studies using CRISPR-Cas9 gene-edited cells demonstrated a key role for the TSC2/RHEB axis in regulating TGF-β1-induced mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 activation and collagen I deposition in mesenchymal cells reflecting IPF and other disease settings, including cancer-associated fibroblasts.

Conclusion

These data provide strong support for the human tissue-based and bioinformatics approaches adopted to identify critical transcriptional nodes associated with the key pathogenic cell responsible for fibrogenesis in situ and further identify the TSC2/RHEB axis as a potential novel target for interfering with excessive matrix deposition in IPF and other fibrotic conditions.
Long-term treatment with insulin and retinoic acid increased glucose utilization in L6 muscle cells via glycogenesis
Authors: Goff Matthew , Chen Guoxun
Published: November 2020

The skeletal muscle regulates glucose homeostasis. Here, the effects of vitamin A metabolites including retinoic acid (RA) alone, and in combination with insulin, on glucose utilization were investigated in rat L6 muscle cells during the differentiation process. L6 cells were treated with differentiation medium containing retinol, retinal, RA, and (or) insulin. The glucose levels and pH values in the medium were measured every 2 days. The expression levels of insulin signaling and glycogen synthesis proteins, as well as glycogen content were determined. Retinal and RA reduced the glucose content and pH levels in the medium of the L6 cells. RA acted synergistically with insulin to reduce glucose and pH levels in the medium. The RA- and insulin-mediated reduction of glucose in the medium only occurred when glucose levels were at or above 15 mmol/L. Insulin-induced phosphorylation of Akt Thr308 was further enhanced by RA treatment through the activation of retinoic acid receptor. RA acted synergistically with insulin to phosphorylate glycogen synthase kinase 3β, and dephosphorylate glycogen synthase (GS), which was associated with increases in the protein and mRNA levels of GS. Increases in glycogen content were induced by insulin, and was further enhanced in the presence of RA. We conclude that activation of the RA signaling pathway enhanced insulin-induced glucose utilization in differentiating L6 cells through increases in glycogenesis.
Exploring new boundary conditions for $$\mathcal {N}=(1,1)$$ extended higher-spin $$AdS_3$$ supergravity
Authors: Özer H. T. , Filiz Aytül
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we present a candidate for $$\mathcal {N}=(1,1)$$

N
=
(
1
,
1
)

extended higher-spin $$AdS_3$$

A
d

S
3

supergravity with the most general boundary conditions discussed by Grumiller and Riegler recently. We show that the asymptotic symmetry algebra consists of two copies of the $$\mathfrak {osp}(3|2)_k$$

osp

(
3
|
2
)

k

affine algebra in the presence of the most general boundary conditions. Furthermore, we impose some certain restrictions on gauge fields on the most general boundary conditions and that leads us to the supersymmetric extension of the Brown–Henneaux boundary conditions. We eventually see that the asymptotic symmetry algebra reduces to two copies of the $$\mathcal {SW}(\frac{3}{2},2)$$

SW
(

3
2

,
2
)

algebra for $$\mathcal {N}=(1,1)$$

N
=
(
1
,
1
)

extended higher-spin supergravity.
Global monopole as a generator of a bulk-brane structure in Brans–Dicke bulk gravity
Authors: Caramês Thiago R. P. , da Silva J. M. Hoff
Published: November 2020

We investigate a braneworld model generated by a global monopole in the context of Brans–Dicke gravity. After solving the dynamical equations we found a model capable to alleviate the so-called hierarchy problem. The obtained framework is described by a hybrid compactification scheme endowed with a seven-dimensional spacetime, in which the brane has four non-compact dimensions and two curled extra dimensions. The relevant aspects of the resulting model are studied and the requirements to avoid the well known seesaw-like behavior are discussed. We show that under certain conditions it is possible to circumvent such a pathological behavior that characterizes most of the models that exhibit hybrid compactification. Lastly, we deepen our analysis by considering possible extensions of this model to a setup with multiple branes and orbifold-like extra dimension. For this, we compute the consistency conditions to be obeyed by this more general configuration as predicted by the braneworld sum rules formalism. This study indicates the possibility of exclusively positive brane tensions in the model.
Spectrum of scalar and pseudoscalar glueballs from functional methods
Authors: Huber Markus Q. , Fischer Christian S. , Sanchis-Alepuz Hèlios
Published: November 2020

We provide results for the spectrum of scalar and pseudoscalar glueballs in pure Yang–Mills theory using a parameter-free fully self-contained truncation of Dyson–Schwinger and Bethe–Salpeter equations. The only input, the scale, is fixed by comparison with lattice calculations. We obtain ground state masses of $$1.9\,\text {GeV}$$

1.9

GeV

and $$2.6\,\text {GeV}$$

2.6

GeV

for the scalar and pseudoscalar glueballs, respectively, and $$2.6\,\text {GeV}$$

2.6

GeV

and $$3.9\,\text {GeV}$$

3.9

GeV

for the corresponding first excited states. This is in very good quantitative agreement with available lattice results. Furthermore, we predict masses for the second excited states at $$3.7\,\text {GeV}$$

3.7

GeV

and $$4.3\,\text {GeV}$$

4.3

GeV

. The quality of the results hinges crucially on the self-consistency of the employed input. The masses are independent of a specific choice for the infrared behavior of the ghost propagator providing further evidence that this only reflects a nonperturbative gauge completion.
Optimized lepton universality tests in $$B\rightarrow V \ell {\bar{\nu }}$$ decays
Authors: Isidori Gino , Sumensari Olcyr
Published: November 2020

We propose improved lepton flavor universality (LFU) ratios in semileptonic $$P\rightarrow V \ell {\bar{\nu }}$$

P
→
V
ℓ

ν

¯

decays, when comparing $$\mu $$
μ
and $$\tau $$
τ
modes, that minimize the theoretical form-factor uncertainties. These optimized ratios are obtained with simple cuts or reweighting of the dilepton mass distributions, which imply a minimum loss of signal on the rare tauonic modes while maximizing the cancellation of theoretical uncertainties among the two modes. We illustrate the usefulness of these observables in $$B_c\rightarrow J/\psi $$

B
c

→
J
/
ψ

, $$B_c\rightarrow \psi (2S)$$

B
c

→
ψ

(
2
S
)

, $$B\rightarrow D^*$$

B
→

D
∗

and $$B_s\rightarrow D_s^*$$

B
s

→

D
s
∗

transitions, showing that in all cases we can reach $${\mathcal {O}}(1\%)$$

O
(
1
%
)

uncertainties on the SM predictions of the improved LFU ratios employing conservative form-factor uncertainties.
Generalized Lomb–Scargle analysis of $${^{123}\mathrm{I}}$$ and $${^{99\mathrm{m}}\mathrm{Tc}}$$ decay rate measurements
Authors: Gururajan Gautham , Desai Shantanu
Published: November 2020

We apply the generalized Lomb–Scargle periodogram to the $${^{123}\text {I}}$$

123

I

and $${^{99\mathrm{m}}\text {Tc}}$$

99
m

Tc

decay rate measurements based on data taken at the Bronson Methodist Hospital. The aim of this exercise was to carry out an independent search for sinusoidal modulation for these radionuclei (to complement the analysis in Borrello et al.) at frequencies for which other radionuclei have shown periodicities. We do not find such a modulation at any frequencies, including annual modulation or at frequencies associated with solar rotation. Our analysis codes and datasets have been made publicly available.
Classification of Epileptic EEG Signals Using Synchrosqueezing Transform and Machine Learning
Authors: Cura Ozlem Karabiber , Akan Aydin
Published: November 2020

Epilepsy is a neurological disease that is very common worldwide. Patient’s electroencephalography (EEG) signals are frequently used for the detection of epileptic seizure segments. In this paper, a high-resolution time-frequency (TF) representation called Synchrosqueezing Transform (SST) is used to detect epileptic seizures. Two different EEG data sets, the IKCU data set we collected, and the publicly available CHB-MIT data set are analyzed to test the performance of the proposed model in seizure detection. The SST representations of seizure and nonseizure (pre-seizure or inter-seizure) EEG segments of epilepsy patients are calculated. Various features like higher-order joint TF (HOJ-TF) moments and gray-level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM)-based features are calculated using the SST representation. By using single and ensemble machine learning methods such as k-Nearest Neighbor (kNN), Logistic Regression (LR), Naive Bayes (NB), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Boosted Trees (BT), and Subspace kNN (S-kNN), EEG features are classified. The proposed SST-based approach achieved 95.1% ACC, 96.87% PRE, 95.54% REC values for the IKCU data set, and 95.13% ACC, 93.37% PRE, 90.30% REC values for the CHB-MIT data set in seizure detection. Results show that the proposed SST-based method utilizing novel TF features outperforms the short-time Fourier transform (STFT)-based approach, providing over 95% accuracy for most cases, and compares well with the existing methods.
A NOVEL APPROACH FOR FRACTAL BURGERS–BBM EQUATION AND ITS VARIATIONAL PRINCIPLE
Authors: WANG KANG-LE
Published: November 2020

In this paper, the Burgers–Benjamin–Bona–Mahony (Burgers–BBM) equation is described according to the use of the fractal derivative. The variational principle of the fractal Burgers–BBM equation is successfully established by adopting the fractal semi-inverse method, which is very helpful to research the structures of fractal solution for the solitary waves and construct the conservation law. Based on the proposed variational theory, a novel approximate method is successfully proposed for the fractal Burgers–BBM equation, which is called Fractal Variational Iteration Transform Method (FVITM). The example illustrates the FVITM is an excellent and fascinating tool for fractal models.
Experimental Study of the Dynamic Behavior of Thin-Walled Tubular Workpieces in Turning Cutting Process
Authors: Sahraoui Zied , Mehdi Kamel , Jaber Moez Ben
Published: November 2020

Nowadays, industrialists, especially those in the automobile and aeronautical transport fields, seek to lighten the weight of different product components by developing new materials lighter than those usually used or by replacing some massive parts with thin-walled hollow parts. This lightening operation is carried out in order to reduce the energy consumption of the manufactured products while guaranteeing optimal mechanical properties of the components and increasing quality and productivity. To achieve these objectives, some research centers have focused their work on the development and characterization of new light materials and some other centers have focused their work on the analysis and understanding of the encountered problems during the machining operation of thin-walled parts. Indeed, various studies have shown that the machining process of thin-walled parts differs from that of rigid parts. This difference comes from the dynamic behavior of the thin-walled parts which is different from that of the massive parts. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to first highlight some of these problems through the measurement and analysis of the cutting forces and vibrations of tubular parts with different thicknesses in AU4G1T351 aluminum alloy during the turning process. The experimental results highlight that the dynamic behavior of turning process is governed by large radial deformations of the thin-walled workpieces and the influence of this behavior on the variations of the chip thickness and cutting forces is assumed to be preponderant. The second objective is to provide manufacturers with a practical solution to the encountered vibration problems by improving the structural damping of thin-walled parts by additional damping. It is found that the additional structural damping increases the stability of the cutting process and reduces considerably the vibrations amplitudes.
SIR model applied in dynamics of COVID-19 contagion in São Luís-MA, Brazil
Authors: Costa Felix Silva , De Sousa Ítalo José Lima , Santos José Adson Reis
Published: November 2020

The dynamics of COVID-19 contagion investigated in São Luís-MA, Brazil, is based on the SIR model. São Luís was the first city in Brazil to implement the lockdown to control the disease. The SIR model’s definition and properties are presented in addition to the ways of estimating its parameters. The estimation of their values is due to a database released on the Maranhão State Health Department website during the period March 20 to July 2, 2020. The analysis of the proliferation of the disease shows the evolution of the COVID-19 in the city. The graphs illustrate that result.
The Array of Long Baseline Antennas for Taking Radio Observations from the Sub-Antarctic
Authors: Chiang H. C. , Dyson T. , Egan E. , Eyono S. , Ghazi N. , Hickish J. , Jáuregui-Garcia J. M. , Manukha V. , Ménard T. , Moso T. , Peterson J. , Philip L. , Sievers J. L. , Tartakovsky S.
Published: November 2020

Measurements of redshifted 21[Formula: see text]cm emission of neutral hydrogen at [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]MHz have the potential to probe the cosmic “dark ages,” a period of the universe’s history that remains unobserved to date. Observations at these frequencies are exceptionally challenging because of bright Galactic foregrounds, ionospheric contamination, and terrestrial radio-frequency interference. Very few sky maps exist at [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]MHz, and most have modest resolution. We introduce the Array of Long Baseline Antennas for Taking Radio Observations from the Sub-Antarctic (ALBATROS), a new experiment that aims to image low-frequency Galactic emission with an order-of-magnitude improvement in resolution over existing data. The ALBATROS array will consist of antenna stations that operate autonomously, each recording baseband data that will be interferometrically combined offline. The array will be installed on Marion Island and will ultimately comprise 10 stations, with an operating frequency range of 1.2–125[Formula: see text]MHz and maximum baseline lengths of [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]km. We present the ALBATROS instrument design and discuss pathfinder observations that were taken from Marion Island during 2018–2019.
Impact of N-Shaped Wing Morphing on Solar-Powered Aircraft
Authors: El-Salamony Mostafa E. , Aziz Mohamed A.
Published: November 2020

Generally, unmanned aerial vehicles and micro aerial vehicles depend on batteries or conventional fuel as a source of energy. These sources of energy have limited flight time, relatively high cost, and also a certain level of pollutants. Solar energy applied to aerial vehicles is an excellent alternative way to overcome other sources of energy’s disadvantage. This study aimed to design a solar-powered aerial vehicle to achieve continuous flight on Earth. The efficiency of the solar system is related to the absorbed sun rays. The concept of an anti-symmetric N-shaped morphing wing is a good idea to increase the collected solar energy during the daily sun path. But this comes with the penalty of side forces and moments due to the anti-symmetry of the wing. This paper introduces a study for two parameters that strongly affect the aerodynamics of the N-shaped morphing wing; the dihedral part angle and the dihedral part length. The impact of the dihedral angle decreases the lift coefficient and increases the drag coefficient. The impact of the morphing wing on the aircraft performance is also considered.
Contribution of Deforestation to Severe Flooding in Southeast Parts of the Caspian Sea: A Case Study with NDVI Analysis
Authors: Fazel-Rastgar Farahnaz
Published: November 2020

Iran has been faced with increase in flooding cases during the past 60 years. The human activities have been considered as a devastating factor in the environmental change causing the occurrence of severe flooding cases during past decades. On August 11, 2001, a relatively severe rainfall in the south east of Caspian Sea led to the occurrence of a severe deadly flooding in Golestan province and some parts in northern Khorasan province have been unprecedented in Iran over the past century. The destructive extent of flooding in the urban and rural areas reached about 5,000 km2. Here, the synoptic surface and upper levels of the weather charts have been analyzed along with the monitoring of half hourly METEOSAT7 images to show the convective clouds development over the area of the study. The total precipitation in this area during the flooding period was reported between 2.5 and 153 mm with the maximum estimation over the center of the storm around less than 250[Formula: see text]mm. Using satellite imagery in 1979 and 2000, vegetation changes and environmental changes have been investigated and shown extensive decline in vegetation. The image processing and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) calculation of the color composite 433 of LANDSAT5 and the color composite 211 of TERRA (MODIS sensor) images between 1998 and 2001 have been revealed significant deforestation around 248,131,534.3[Formula: see text][Formula: see text] over the study, particularly over the rivers’ neighborhood. Also, by assumption of the same precipitation for 1998 and 2001, the discharge rate in flood case of 2001 has been intensified 1.3 times (at 13 percent) larger than that of 1998. This shows the direct impact of the deforestation and land use changes over the study area during 1998–2001.
The (a,b)-Zagreb index of line graphs of subdivision graphs of some molecular structures
Authors: Sarkar Prosanta , Pal Anita , De Nilanjan
Published: November 2020

A graph is a mathematical model used to predict the topology of a given system. In chemical graph theory, a graph is designed by considering atoms as vertices and edges as bonds between atoms of a particular molecule. A topological index or molecular structure descriptor is a numeric quantity associated with the chemical constitution which correlated with various physiochemical properties of the chemical structure. In this paper, we study the [Formula: see text]-Zagreb index of line graphs of the subdivision graphs of some chemical structures.
Seismic modelling of outcrop carbonate systems: an application to the Cretaceous platform-to-basin system of the Maiella Mountain (central Apennines, Italy)
Authors: Mascolo Valentina , Lecomte Isabelle
Published: November 2020

Forward seismic models of outcrop analogues are used in hydrocarbon exploration to generate more coherent geological–geophysical models that provide an important scale link between outcrops and seismic survey data. Exploration within slope carbonate plays can be problematic with uncertainties about the reservoir geometries, distribution and volumes owing to complex seismic imaging and lack of closely spaced wells. This seismic modelling study provides a synthetic seismic characterization of the carbonate platform-to-slope-to-basin transition exposed across the Maiella Mountain, central Italy. This outcrop represents an analogue for exploration in carbonate slope strata in the Adriatic offshore area. Integration of original and previously published data allows 2D and 3D geological modelling, providing a better characterization of relationships between the palaeoescarpment and resedimented deposits. The seismic response of the various geological features of this transitional carbonate system is simulated via synthetic seismic modelling using innovative, modern techniques. The seismic simulation was performed in both post-stack-time- and pre-stack-depth-migrated domains. These synthetic seismic models help in understanding and predicting the seismic architecture and character of the palaeoescarpment and resedimented slope deposits.
Assessing controls on isolated carbonate platform development in Central Luconia, NW Borneo, from a regional 3D seismic facies and geomorphology investigation
Authors: Ting King King , Tan Yan Eng , Chiew Edwin , Lee Ee Lin , Azudin Ahmad Nazmi , Ishak Noor Alyani
Published: November 2020

The Central Luconia province in the South China Sea, offshore Sarawak, features extensive development of Middle to Late Miocene isolated carbonate platforms. This study presents a regional seismic architecture – seismic facies review of platform flank geometries and off-platform depositional styles, with the goals of understanding their patterns and exploring the controlling processes. The information on flank steepness and predominant shedding direction is contextualized with respect to extrinsic and intrinsic factors of carbonate platform growth, including tectonics, eustatic sea-level fluctuations, hydrodynamics and regional palaeogeography. Results reveal that flank geometries are consistent throughout the Middle to Late Miocene. In the north of the province eastern flanks are dominantly aggradational, steep and sediment-starved escarpments, whereas western flanks show more progradation and are accretionary in nature. Discrepancies from this pattern are observed among closely spaced platforms. The eastern-aggrading flanks are interpreted to have been highly influenced by monsoonal wind-driven currents. Further south in the province tidal currents, antecedent topography and syn-depositional tectonics were more important controls on platform architectural development. This study of regional processes and geomorphic products provides a basis for enhanced conceptual facies models and reservoir quality predictions.
Hereditary Diffuse Gastric Cancer: Approaches to Screening, Surveillance, and Treatment
Authors: Pilonis Nastazja Dagny , Tischkowitz Marc , Fitzgerald Rebecca C. , di Pietro Massimiliano
Published: November 2020

Hereditary diffuse gastric cancer (HDGC) is a cancer syndrome associated with a significant lifetime risk of diffuse gastric cancer (DGC), a malignancy characterized by late clinical presentation and poor prognosis, as well as lobular breast cancer. HDGC is linked to germline pathogenic variants in the E-cadherin gene ( CDH1) that are inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern; however, in many families with DGC clustering, no genetic cause has been identified. This review discusses key elements that allow risk assessment of potential inherited DGC susceptibility. We provide a practical overview of the recommendations for surveillance and treatment of individuals at risk and patients with early disease. The review also outlines future research avenues to improve our understanding of the genetic background and natural history of the disease, the endoscopic detection of early lesions, and the outcome of prophylactic surgery in young individuals.
Integrated Energy Conversion and Storage Device for Stable Fast Charging Power Systems
Authors: Kim Jihun , Park Hyeonghun , Jang Junsung , Song Hyeongi , Lee Byeong Hoon , Lee Dongmin , Jang Suyoung , Kim Jin Hyeok , Kim Hyeong-Jin
Published: November 2020

Herein, an integrated device that comprises inorganic kesterite solar cells and Li-ion batteries (LIBs) has been proposed for application in fast photo-charging power systems. LiFePO4 and Li4Ti5O12 were selected as the battery electrode materials and six kesterite solar cells connected in series were fabricated to satisfy the charging voltage required for LIBs. Photo-charging was conducted at the rate of 1C (1.790 mAh g−1) at 2.1 V. An energy conversion and storage efficiency of 3.87% was acquired in the integrated device, and a storage efficiency of over 70% was observed in LIBs. Furthermore, by synchronizing the charging voltage of the solar cell and LIB, over 70% of the capacity was obtained at the rate of 1C, while preventing overvoltage during long-term charging.
Communication—Tunable Epsilon-Negative Property of Nickel/Copper Calcium Titanate Cermets
Authors: Ding Baogang , Lin Jiamin , Wan Feng , Qu Yunpeng , Wu Jiada , Sun Kai , Fan Runhua
Published: November 2020

Nickel/copper calcium titanate (Ni/CCTO) cermets with variated Ni content were prepared. The abrupt shift of ac conductivity, reactance and complex permittivity occurred in composites. Epsilon-negative property is an intrinsically physical performance of inductive character which was explained by low-frequency plasmonic state of Ni networks. Negative value of real permittivity in metacomposites reached 109 and was tuned by adjusting the concentration of free carriers in Ni networks. The epsilon-negative materials are accompanied by strongly dielectric loss and high reactance value. This work expands the applying scope of CCTO into metacomposites and meanwhile facilitates to clarify the regulation mechanism of epsilon-negative.
Exosomal miR-107 antagonizes profibrotic phenotypes of pericytes by targeting a pathway involving HIF-1α/Notch1/PDGFRβ/YAP1/Twist1 axis in vitro
Authors: Wang Yi-Chun , Xie Han , Zhang Yong-Chang , Meng Qing-He , Xiong Ming-Mei , Jia Ming-Wang , Peng Fang , Tang Dao-Lin
Published: November 2020

This work reveals a novel mechanism by which pulmonary vascular endothelial cells, via regulating the transdifferentiation of microvascular pericytes into myofibroblasts, contribute to the pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis. Since targeting the formation of myofibroblasts may prevent the development and benefit the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis, this study provides not only mechanistic understanding but also promising therapeutic targets for pulmonary fibrosis.