bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supplemental Material: Is volcanic ash responsible for the enrichment of organic carbon in shales? Quantitative characterization of organic-rich shale at the Ordovician-Silurian transition
Authors: Zhao Ke , Du Xuebin , al. et
Published: July 2020

Appendix 1: TOC, major element and trace element analysis results of samples from the Wufeng and Longmaxi formations; Appendix 2: Ash correction calculation results for the study area based on ash data from this and previous studies.
Effect of cumulative dexamethasone dose in preterm infants on neurodevelopmental and growth outcomes: a Western Australia experience
Authors: Buchiboyina Ashok Kumar , Yip Chi Seong Andrew , Kohan Rolland , Nathan Elizabeth A , Shrestha Damber , Davis Jonathon , Wang Xiaowei , Sharp Mary
Published: July 2020

Objective

Comparing the long-term neurodevelopmental and growth outcomes of lower and higher cumulative dexamethasone exposure in preterm infants ventilated for a minimum cumulative duration of 7 days.

Design

A retrospective cohort medical chart review of infants born in Western Australia <29 weeks’ gestation between January 2007 and May 2016 who were mechanically ventilated >7 days.

Intervention

No dexamethasone (controls) or a total cumulative dexamethasone dose of <2 mg/kg (lower) and ≥2 mg/kg (higher).

Main outcome measures

Long-term disability at 2 and 5 years and growth measurement outcomes at 2 years of age.

Results

Dexamethasone was given to 104 infants (66 with cumulative dose <2 mg/kg; 38 with cumulative dose ≥2 mg/kg), and 324 infants were controls. There was no difference in odds of long-term disability in infants with any dexamethasone exposure compared with controls (aOR: 0.90, 95% CI 0.34 to 2.02, p=0.784). No difference in long-term disability was found between the lower and higher groups (p=0.494). The prevalence of cerebral palsy (Gross Motor Functional Classification System level ≥2) between the control, lower and high-dose groups did not differ significantly (5.8% vs 4.0% vs 0%). The higher dose group had lower mean weight z-score (mean effect: −0.83, 95% CI: −1.54 to −0.01, p=0.023), height z-score (mean effect: −0.63, 95% CI: −12.5 to −0.01, p=0.048) and head circumference z-score (mean effect: −0.65, 95% CI: −1.25 to −0.05, p=0.035) compared with controls.

Conclusions

In our cohort, dexamethasone use was not associated with increased odds of long-term disability. Dexamethasone use was associated with lower growth measurements compared with controls.
Glucagon-like peptide 1 agonists for treatment of patients with type 2 diabetes who fail metformin monotherapy: systematic review and meta-analysis of economic evaluation studies
Authors: Bagepally Bhavani Shankara , Chaikledkaew Usa , Gurav Yogesh Krishnarao , Anothaisintawee Thunyarat , Youngkong Sitaporn , Chaiyakunapruk Nathorn , McEvoy Mark , Attia John , Thakkinstian Ammarin
Published: July 2020

Objectives

To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis and to pool the incremental net benefits (INBs) of glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP1) compared with other therapies in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) after metformin monotherapy failure.

Research design and methods

The study design is a systematic review and meta-analysis. We searched MEDLINE (via PubMed), Scopus and Tufts Registry for eligible cost–utility studies up to June 2018, adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guideline. We conducted a systematic review and pooled the INBs of GLP1s compared with other therapies in T2DM after metformin monotherapy failure. Various monetary units were converted to purchasing power parity, adjusted to 2017 US$. The INBs were calculated and then pooled across studies, stratified by level of country income; a random-effects model was used if heterogeneity was present, and a fixed-effects model if it was absent. Heterogeneity was assessed using Q test and I2statistic.

Results

A total of 56 studies were eligible, mainly from high-income countries (HICs). The pooled INBs of GLP1s compared with dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor (DPP4i) (n=10), sulfonylureas (n=6), thiazolidinedione (TZD) (n=3), and insulin (n=23) from HICs were US$4012.21 (95% CI US$−571.43 to US$8595.84, I2=0%), US$3857.34 (95% CI US$−7293.93 to US$15 008.61, I2=45.9%), US$37 577.74 (95% CI US$−649.02 to US$75 804.50, I2=92.4%) and US$14 062.42 (95% CI US$8168.69 to US$19 956.15, I2=86.4%), respectively. GLP1s were statistically significantly cost-effective compared with insulins, but not compared with DPP4i, sulfonylureas, and TZDs. Among GLP1s, liraglutide was more cost-effective compared with lixisenatide, but not compared with exenatide, with corresponding pooled INBs of US$4555.09 (95% CI US$3992.60 to US$5117.59, I2=0) and US$728.46 (95% CI US$−1436.14 to US$2893.07, I2=0), respectively.

Conclusion

GLP1 agonists are a cost-effective choice compared with insulins, but not compared with DPP4i, sulfonylureas and TZDs.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42018105193.
Survival and factors predicting mortality after major and minor lower-extremity amputations among patients with diabetes: a population-based study using health information systems
Authors: Cascini Silvia , Agabiti Nera , Davoli Marina , Uccioli Luigi , Meloni Marco , Giurato Laura , Marino Claudia , Bargagli Anna Maria
Published: July 2020

Introduction

The aim of the study was to identify the sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with death after the first lower-extremity amputation (LEA), minor and major separately, using data from regional health administrative databases.

Research design and methods

We carried out a population-based cohort study including patients with diabetes residing in the Lazio region and undergoing a primary amputation in the period 2012–2015. Each individual was followed up for at least 2 years. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to evaluate long-term survival; Cox proportional regression models were applied to identify factors associated with all-cause mortality.

Results

The cohort included 1053 patients, 72% were male, 63% aged ≥65 years, and 519 (49%) died by the end of follow-up. Mortality rates at 1 and 4 years were, respectively, 33% and 65% for major LEA and 18% and 45% for minor LEA. Significant risk factors for mortality were age ≥65, diabetes-related cardiovascular complications, and chronic renal disease for patients with minor LEA, and age ≥75 years, chronic renal disease and antidepressant drug consumption for subjects with major LEA.

Conclusions

The present study confirms the high mortality rates described in patients with diabetes after non-traumatic LEA. It shows differences between minor and major LEA in terms of mortality rates and related risk factors. The study highlights the role of depression as specific risk factor for death in patients with diabetes after major LEA and suggests including its definition and management in strategies to reduce the high mortality rate observed in this group of patients.
Soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) as a prognostic marker of mortality in healthy, general and patient populations: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Petersen Jens Emil Vang , Kallemose Thomas , Barton Karen D , Caspi Avshalom , Rasmussen Line Jee Hartmann
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Chronic inflammation is increasingly recognised as a major contributor to disease, disability and ultimately death, but measuring the levels of chronic inflammation remains non-canonised, making it difficult to relate chronic inflammation and mortality. Soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR), an emerging biomarker of chronic inflammation, has been proposed as a prognostic biomarker associated with future incidence of chronic disease and mortality in general as well as patient populations. Proper prognostic biomarkers are important as they can help improve risk stratification in clinical settings and provide guidance in treatment or lifestyle decisions as well as in the design of randomised trials. Here, we wish to summarise the evidence about the overall association of the biomarker suPAR with mortality in healthy, general and patient populations across diseases.

Methods and analysis

The search will be conducted using Medline, Embase and Scopus databases from their inception to 03 June 2020 to identify studies investigating ‘suPAR’ and ‘mortality’. Observational studies and control groups from intervention studies written in English or Danish will be included. The ‘Quality In Prognosis Studies’ tool will be used to assess the risk of bias for the studies included. Unadjusted and adjusted mortality outcome measures (eg, risk ratios, ORs, HRs) with 95% CIs will be extracted for healthy individuals, general and patient populations. The primary outcome is all-cause mortality within any given follow-up. Subgroup analyses will be performed based on time of outcome, cause of death, population type, adjustments for conventional risk factors and inflammation markers.

Ethics and dissemination

This systematic review will synthesise evidence on the use of suPAR as a prognostic marker for mortality. The results will be disseminated by publication in a peer-reviewed journal. Data used will be obtained from published studies, and ethics approval is therefore not necessary for this systematic review.

Trial registration number PROSPERO

CRD42020167401.
Implementation of health-focused interventions in vulnerable populations: protocol for a scoping review
Authors: Midboe Amanda M , Gray Caroline , Cheng Hannah , Okwara Leonore , Gale Randall C
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Vulnerable populations face significant challenges in navigating the care continuum, ranging from diagnosis of illness to linkage and retention in healthcare. Understanding how best to move individuals within these vulnerable populations across the care continuum is critical to improving their health. A large body of literature has focused on evaluation of implementation of various health-focused interventions in this population. However, we do not fully understand the unique challenges to implementing healthcare interventions for vulnerable populations. This study aims to examine the literature describing implementation of health service interventions among vulnerable populations to identify how implementations using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research are adapted. Findings from this review will be useful to implementation scientists to identify gaps in evidence and for adapting similar interventions in unique settings.

Methods and analysis

This study protocol outlines a scoping review of the peer-reviewed and grey literature, using established approaches delineated in Arksey and O'Malley’s scoping review framework and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews Checklist. Search strategies will be developed and refined by a medical librarian in collaboration with the research team. Searches will be conducted in electronic databases (CINAHL, Cochrane, PsychINFO, PubMed, Social Services Abstracts, Web of Science, Google and Google Scholar) and limited to studies published between 1 August 2009 and 1 June 2020. Additionally, hand searches will be conducted in three relevant journals—Implementation Science, Systematic Reviews and BMJ Open. English-language studies and reports meeting inclusion criteria will be screened independently by two reviewers and the final list will be abstracted and charted in duplicate.

Ethics and dissemination

This is a review of the literature; ethics approval is not indicated. We will disseminate findings from this study in peer-reviewed journals as well as presentations to relevant stakeholders and conferences.
Walking-related digital mobility outcomes as clinical trial endpoint measures: protocol for a scoping review
Authors: Polhemus Ashley Marie , Bergquist Ronny , Bosch de Basea Magda , Brittain Gavin , Buttery Sara Catherine , Chynkiamis Nikolaos , dalla Costa Gloria , Delgado Ortiz Laura , Demeyer Heleen , Emmert Kirsten , Garcia Aymerich Judith , Gassner Heiko , Hansen Clint , Hopkinson Nicholas , Klucken Jochen , Kluge Felix , Koch Sarah , Leocani Letizia , Maetzler Walter , Micó-Amigo M Encarna , Mikolaizak A Stefanie , Piraino Paolo , Salis Francesca , Schlenstedt Christian , Schwickert Lars , Scott Kirsty , Sharrack Basil , Taraldsen Kristin , Troosters Thierry , Vereijken Beatrix , Vogiatzis Ioannis , Yarnall Alison , Mazza Claudia , Becker Clemens , Rochester Lynn , Puhan Milo Alan , Frei Anja
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Advances in wearable sensor technology now enable frequent, objective monitoring of real-world walking. Walking-related digital mobility outcomes (DMOs), such as real-world walking speed, have the potential to be more sensitive to mobility changes than traditional clinical assessments. However, it is not yet clear which DMOs are most suitable for formal validation. In this review, we will explore the evidence on discriminant ability, construct validity, prognostic value and responsiveness of walking-related DMOs in four disease areas: Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and proximal femoral fracture.

Methods and analysis

Arksey and O’Malley’s methodological framework for scoping reviews will guide study conduct. We will search seven databases (Medline, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, EMBASE, IEEE Digital Library and Cochrane Library) and grey literature for studies which (1) measure differences in DMOs between healthy and pathological walking, (2) assess relationships between DMOs and traditional clinical measures, (3) assess the prognostic value of DMOs and (4) use DMOs as endpoints in interventional clinical trials. Two reviewers will screen each abstract and full-text manuscript according to predefined eligibility criteria. We will then chart extracted data, map the literature, perform a narrative synthesis and identify gaps.

Ethics and dissemination

As this review is limited to publicly available materials, it does not require ethical approval. This work is part of Mobilise-D, an Innovative Medicines Initiative Joint Undertaking which aims to deliver, validate and obtain regulatory approval for DMOs. Results will be shared with the scientific community and general public in cooperation with the Mobilise-D communication team.

Registration

Study materials and updates will be made available through the Center for Open Science’s OSFRegistry (https://osf.io/k7395).
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on UK endoscopic activity and cancer detection: a National Endoscopy Database Analysis
Authors: Rutter Matthew D , Brookes Matthew , Lee Thomas J , Rogers Peter , Sharp Linda
Published: July 2020

Objective

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major global impact on endoscopic services. This reduced capacity, along with public reluctance to undergo endoscopy during the pandemic, might result in excess mortality from delayed cancer diagnosis. Using the UK’s National Endoscopy Database (NED), we performed the first national analysis of the impact of the pandemic on endoscopy services and endoscopic cancer diagnosis.

Design

We developed a NED COVID-19 module incorporating procedure-level data on all endoscopic procedures. Three periods were designated: pre-COVID (6 January 2020 to 15 March), transition (16–22 March) and COVID-impacted (23 March–31 May). National, regional and procedure-specific analyses were performed. The average weekly number of cancers, proportion of missing cancers and cancer detection rates were calculated.

Results

A weekly average of 35 478 endoscopy procedures were performed in the pre-COVID period. Activity in the COVID-impacted period reduced to 12% of pre-COVID levels; at its low point, activity was only 5%, recovering to 20% of pre-COVID activity by study end. Although more selective vetting significantly increased the per-procedure cancer detection rate (pre-COVID 1.91%; COVID-impacted 6.61%; p<0.001), the weekly number of cancers detected decreased by 58%. The proportion of missing cancers ranged from 19% (pancreatobiliary) to 72% (colorectal).

Conclusion

This national analysis demonstrates the remarkable impact that the pandemic has had on endoscopic services, which has resulted in a substantial and concerning reduction in cancer detection. Major, urgent efforts are required to restore endoscopy capacity to prevent an impending cancer healthcare crisis.
Elevated Levels of Anti-Carbamylated Protein Antibody in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Association with Disease Activity and Bone Destruction
Authors: Zhang Bei , Lei Yimeng , Li Xin , Gao Ziyu , Xia Liping , Lu Jing , Shen Hui
Published: July 2020

To measure the serum levels of anticarbamylated protein (CarP) antibodies in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in China and to evaluate the association of anti-CarP antibodies with clinical parameters and disease activity. 260 Chinese patients with RA, 40 patients with osteoarthritis (OA), 88 patients with spondyloarthritis (SpA) and 77 healthy controls were included. The serum levels of anti-CarP antibodies were detected by ELISA. Blood tests to detect the anticyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP) antibody level, rheumatoid factor (RF) level, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C reactive protein level and Disease Activity Score in 28 joints using the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (DAS28-ESR) were performed by standard methods. Bone erosion was assessed by colour Doppler ultrasonography. A total of 18.8% of patients with RA and 9.4% of anti-CCP antibody and RF-double-negative patients were positive for anti-CarP antibody. The anti-CarP antibody level was significantly higher in patients with RA than in patients with OA or SpA and in healthy controls. Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that the level of anti-CarP antibody was positively correlated with DAS28-ESR; the higher a level of serum anti-CarP antibody, the higher the DAS28-ESR score. Anti-CarP-positive patients had higher disease activity scores than anti-CarP-negative patients. Moreover, anti-CarP-positive patients had a higher risk of developing bone erosion. The anti-CarP antibody was found to play an important role in the diagnosis of RA, especially in anti-CCP antibody and RF-double-negative patients. The anti-CarP antibody is a potential marker of disease activity and bone erosion in RA.
Prognostic value of immune score in nasopharyngeal carcinoma using digital pathology
Authors: Wang Ya-Qin , Chen Lei , Mao Yan-Ping , Li Ying-Qing , Jiang Wei , Xu Shuo-Yu , Zhang Yu , Chen Yu-Pei , Li Xiao-Min , He Qing-Mei , He Shi-Wei , Yang Xiao-Jing , Lei Yuan , Zhao Yin , Yun Jing-Ping , Liu Na , Li Yingqin , Ma Jun
Published: July 2020

Background

Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes have been reported as prognostic markers in tumors. We aimed to assess the prognostic value of total T cell (CD3+) density, cytotoxic T cell (CD8+) density and memory T cell (CD45RO+) density in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).

Methods

The expression of CD3, CD8 and CD45RO was detected by immunohistochemistry in the training (n=221) and validation cohorts (n=115). The densities of these three markers were quantified by digital pathology both in the tumor and stroma. Then, we developed the immune score based on the density of these three markers and further analyzed its prognostic value.

Results

The high density of CD3+, CD8+and CD45RO+T cells both in the tumor and/or stroma were significantly associated with the decrease in mortality in the training cohort, respectively. High immune score predicted a prolonged overall survival (OS) (HR 0.34, 95% CI 0.18 to 0.64, p=0.001, disease-free survival (DFS) (HR 0.44, 95% CI 0.25 to 0.78, p=0.005) and distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS) (HR 0.43, 95% CI 0.21 to 0.87, p=0.018) in NPC patients. The findings were confirmed in the validation cohort. Multivariate analysis revealed that immune score remained an independent prognostic indicator for OS, DFS and DMFS. In addition, we established a nomogram with the integration of all independent variables to predict individual risk of death.

Conclusions

We established an immune score model, which provides a reliable estimate of the risk of death, disease progress and distant metastasis in NPC patients.
Dietary intake, clinical-nutritional status, and homocysteine in hemodialysis subjects: the mediating role of inflammation (NUGE-HD study)
Authors: Balbino Karla Pereira , Juvanhol Leidjaira Lopes , Wendling Aline Lage , Marota Luciane Domingos , Costa Jaqueline Beatriz Silva , Bressan Josefina , Hermsdorff Helen Hermana Miranda
Published: July 2020

The aim of the present study was to test the hypothesis that inflammation mediates the associations among food intake, clinical-nutritional status, and plasma homocysteine (Hcys) in hemodialysis (HD) subjects. This was a cross-sectional analysis of data on 129 subjects undergoing HD (58.9% male, 61.8 ± 15.5 years of age) from the cohort Nutrition and Genetics on HD outcomes (NUGE-HD study). Sociodemographic, anthropometric, and metabolic data were collected, and food intake was assessed using a quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Plasma C-reactive protein (CRP) was used as an inflammatory marker. Data were analyzed by structural equation modeling. Regarding the direct effects, complex B vitamin intake was negatively associated with body mass index, and diabetes mellitus was positively associated with CRP. Plasma CRP also showed a negative association with Hcys, and the ratio of saturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids intake showed a positive association with Hcys. Regarding indirect effects, the results showed that the relationship between the presence of diabetes mellitus and Hcys is mediated by plasma CRP. In conclusion, the ratio of saturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids had a direct effect on plasma Hcys, whereas inflammation had a direct and mediating effect on the relationship between Hcys and diabetes mellitus in HD subjects.

Novelty In end-stage renal disease, CRP influences plasma Hcys directly and also indirectly through its mediating effect. The quantity and quality of dietary fatty acids influence plasma Hcys concentrations in HD subjects.
Sex and light physical activity impact popliteal, but not brachial artery flow-mediated dilation in physically active young adults
Authors: Johns Jarrett A. , O’Brien Myles W. , Bungay Amanda , Kimmerly Derek S.
Published: July 2020

When controlling for baseline diameter, males have greater brachial flow-mediated dilation (BA-FMD) responses than females. It is unclear whether sex differences in baseline diameter also influences popliteal FMD (POP-FMD), which may be impacted by cardiorespiratory fitness and physical activity levels. We hypothesized that males would exhibit greater BA-FMD and POP-FMD when allometrically scaled to baseline diameter. FMD (ultrasonography), cardiorespiratory fitness (indirect calorimetry), and objectively measured physical activity were assessed in males (n = 13; age, 23 ± 3 years; peak oxygen consumption, 48.0 ± 7.1 mL·kg−1·min−1) and females (n = 13; age, 24 ± 2 years; peak oxygen consumption, 36.8 ± 6.0 mL·kg−1·min−1). Both groups had similarly high levels of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (503 ± 174 vs. 430 ± 142 min·week−1, p = 0.25). However, males were more aerobically fit (p < 0.001) and females accumulated more light-intensity physical activity (182 ± 67 vs. 127 ± 53 min·week−1, p = 0.03). Relative and allometrically scaled BA-FMD were similar (both, p ≥ 0.09) between sexes. In contrast, relative (6.2% ± 1.0% vs. 4.6% ± 1.4%, p = 0.001) and scaled (6.8% ± 1.7% vs. 4.7% ± 1.7%, p = 0.03) POP-FMD were greater in females. Relative POP-FMD was related to light-intensity physical activity in the pooled sample (r = 0.43; p = 0.04). However, the enhanced relative POP-FMD in females remained after adjusting for higher light-intensity physical activity levels (p = 0.01). Young females have enhanced popliteal, but not brachial, endothelial health than males with similar moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity levels and higher cardiorespiratory fitness.

Novelty In physically active adults, females had greater POP-FMD but not BA-FMD than males. The enhanced POP-FMD in females was not related to greater vascular smooth muscle sensitivity to nitric oxide or their smaller baseline diameters. POP-FMD was associated with light physical activity levels in the pooled sample.
Geometric information flows and G. Perelman entropy for relativistic classical and quantum mechanical systems
Authors: Vacaru Sergiu I.
Published: July 2020

This work consists an introduction to the classical and quantum information theory of geometric flows of (relativistic) Lagrange–Hamilton mechanical systems. Basic geometric and physical properties of the canonical nonholonomic deformations of G. Perelman entropy functionals and geometric flows evolution equations of classical mechanical systems are described. There are studied projections of such F- and W-functionals on Lorentz spacetime manifolds and three-dimensional spacelike hypersurfaces. These functionals are used for elaborating relativistic thermodynamic models for Lagrange–Hamilton geometric evolution and respective generalized Hamilton geometric flow and nonholonomic Ricci flow equations. The concept of nonholonomic W-entropy is developed as a complementary one for the classical Shannon entropy and the quantum von Neumann entropy. There are considered geometric flow generalizations of the approaches based on classical and quantum relative entropy, conditional entropy, mutual information, and related thermodynamic models. Such basic ingredients and topics of quantum geometric flow information theory are elaborated using the formalism of density matrices and measurements with quantum channels for the evolution of quantum mechanical systems.
Efficiency Improvement of Delta Sigma Modulator-Based Transmitter Using Complex Delta Sigma Modulator and Noise Reduction Loop
Authors: Majd Nasser Erfani , Aeenmehr Amin
Published: July 2020

This paper proposes an architecture to enhance coding efficiency (CE) of the Delta Sigma Modulator (DSM) transmitters. In this architecture, a complex–low pass delta sigma modulator (LPDSM) is used instead of existing Cartesian–LPDSM and polar–low pass envelope delta sigma modulator (LPEDSM). Simulation results show that for Uplink long-term evolution (LTE) signal with 1.92[Formula: see text]MHz bandwidth and 7.8-dB peak to average power ratio (PAPR), the CE for the complex–LPDSM-based transmitter is equal to 41.7% in compare to 9.7% CE for Cartesian–LPDSM transmitter. Also, due to the resolving of noise convolution problem, the complex–LPDSM-based transmitter baseband part needs lower oversampling ratio (OSR) and clock speed than polar–LPEDSM transmitter baseband part to achieve the same signal-to-noise and distortion ratio (SNDR). In the next step, a quantization noise reduction loop is implemented in this architecture. By using this technique for an Uplink LTE signal with 1.92[Formula: see text]MHz bandwidth, with the same PAPR and OSR of 16, the CE is improved from 41.7% to 56.1% with 40[Formula: see text]dB SNDR.
BACTERIAL ISOLATION AND ANTIBIOTIC SELECTION AFTER OVARIOHYSTERECTOMY OF CANINE PYOMETRA: A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY OF 55 CASES
Authors: Liao Albert-Taiching , Huang Wei-Hsiang , Wang Shang-Lin
Published: July 2020

Canine pyometra is a common reproductive disease in bitches. This study evaluated the causative bacteria in antibiotic sensitivity test. Fifty five bitches with pyometra were included in this study. Escherichia coli was the most isolated microorganism (63.6%), followed by Streptococcus spp. (10.9%). Sixty two pathogen isolates showed highest sensitivity to imipenem (95.2%), followed by gentamicin (85.5%), amikacin (80.6%), ceftazidime (72.6%), nitrofurantoin (72.6%), and norfloxacin (72.6%). The microorganisms were most resistant to lincomycin (96.8%), followed by penicillin (85.5%), trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (58.1%), amoxicillin (54.8%), ampicillin (53.2%), and cefadroxil (50%). The sensitivity of a single empirical antibiotic treatment applied without sensitivity test was 51% (25/49). Sensitivity increased to 84.6% (11/13) when two antibiotics are used simultaneously. No significant differences in the proportions of clinical signs and abnormal hematologic results were observed between bitches with open- and closed-type pyometra. All bitches with pyometra recovered after ovariohysterectomy, antibiotic administration, and supportive therapy. The results of this study provide reliable information to choose an effective antibiotic before surgical intervention, especially for critical patients who cannot wait for the sensitivity test. The outcomes of the bitches with pyometra were excellent with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
q-Analogues of Guillera’s two series for π±2 with convergence rate 27 64
Authors: Chen Xiaojing , Chu Wenchang
Published: July 2020

Three transformation formulae are established for the partial sum of Bailey’s well-poised [Formula: see text]-series. Their particular cases provide [Formula: see text]-analogues of Guillera’s two series for [Formula: see text] with convergence rate [Formula: see text], and for other classical [Formula: see text]-related infinite series.
Some relations deduced from regularized double shuffle relations of multiple zeta values
Authors: Li Zhonghua , Qin Chen
Published: July 2020

It is conjectured that the regularized double shuffle relations give all algebraic relations among the multiple zeta values, and hence all other algebraic relations should be deduced from the regularized double shuffle relations. In this paper, we provide as many as the relations which can be derived from the regularized double shuffle relations, for example, the weighted sum formula of Guo and Xie, some evaluation formulas with even arguments and the restricted sum formulas of Hoffman and their generalizations.
A semi-canonical reduction for periods of Kontsevich–Zagier
Authors: Viu-Sos Juan
Published: July 2020

The [Formula: see text]-algebra of periods was introduced by Kontsevich and Zagier as complex numbers whose real and imaginary parts are values of absolutely convergent integrals of [Formula: see text]-rational functions over [Formula: see text]-semi-algebraic domains in [Formula: see text]. The Kontsevich–Zagier period conjecture affirms that any two different integral expressions of a given period are related by a finite sequence of transformations only using three rules respecting the rationality of the functions and domains: additions of integrals by integrands or domains, change of variables and Stokes formula. In this paper, we prove that every non-zero real period can be represented as the volume of a compact [Formula: see text]-semi-algebraic set obtained from any integral representation by an effective algorithm satisfying the rules allowed by the Kontsevich–Zagier period conjecture.
Recursion formulas for poly-Bernoulli numbers and their applications
Authors: Ohno Yasuo , Sasaki Yoshitaka
Published: July 2020

Recurrence formulas for generalized poly-Bernoulli polynomials are given. The formula gives a positive answer to a question raised by Kaneko. Further, as applications, annihilation formulas for Arakawa-Kaneko type zeta-functions and a counting formula for lonesum matrices of a certain type are also discussed.
On the sum of fourth powers in arithmetic progression
Authors: van Langen Joey M.
Published: July 2020

We prove that the equation [Formula: see text] has no integer solutions [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] for all integers [Formula: see text]. We mainly use a modular approach with two Frey [Formula: see text]-curves defined over the field [Formula: see text].
Composite scintillators based on polymers and inorganic nanoparticles
Authors: Koshimizu Masanori
Published: July 2020

Development of organic–inorganic nanocomposite scintillators as a new class of scintillators is reviewed. Advantages and shortcomings of polymer-based organic scintillators, i.e. plastic scintillators, are described among the desired properties of scintillators. Development of scintillators by addition of organometallic compounds in the plastic scintillators as an approach to overcome the shortcomings is introduced. In comparison to this approach, nanocomposite scintillators comprising plastic scintillators added with inorganic nanoparticles are introduced. The synthesis methods achieved their properties and their applications are reviewed. Finally, possible strategies for further improvement of the properties of the nanocomposite scintillators are presented.
Facile preparation of oyster shells–derived versatile Ca–Fe–O porous materials as Fenton-like reagent for environmental remediation
Authors: Liang Zhiyu , Yan Guiyang
Published: July 2020

Recently, utilizing biomass to synthesize novel functional materials has been a focus of significant interests in a myriad of fields such as environmental remediation. Herein, Ca–Fe–O porous materials were successfully synthesized by utilizing oyster shells and K2FeO4 according to a simple one-pot method. According to the result of TEM, Fe3O4 was obtained by reducing K2FeO4 and then deposited in situ on the Ca(OH)2 nanosheets derived by CaO precursor. Such Ca–Fe–O porous materials showing outstanding adsorption capacity for RhB (146.11[Formula: see text]mg/g) and MB (135.70[Formula: see text]mg/g), additionally, would generate abundant H2O2 and remove the organic compounds through a Fenton-like reaction. It is hoped that our work could spur further interest in utilizing biomass to rationally design a variety of promising functional materials for environmental remediation.
Connected Wireless Camera Network Deployment with Visibility Coverage
Authors: Huang Hua , Ni Chien-Chun , Ban Xiaomeng , Schneider Andrew T. , Gao Jie , Lin Shan
Published: July 2020

System deployments of IoT systems have drawn research attention, because it is very challenging to meet both physical and cyber constraints in real systems. In this article, we consider the problem of deploying wireless camera networks inside a complex indoor setting for surveillance applications. We formulate the problem of the minimum connected guarding network whose objective is to place a minimum number of cameras satisfying both visual coverage of the domain and wireless network connectivity. We prove that finding the minimum connected guarding network is NP-hard in both the geometric and discrete settings. We also give a 2-approximation algorithm to the geometric minimum guarding network problem. Motivated by the connection of this problem with the watchman tour problem and the art gallery problem, we developed two algorithms to calculate the locations of camera deployment. By deploying a prototype testbed, we verify the feasibility of the system design. Using simulations on 20 real floor plans, we demonstrate that our solutions reduce the number of cameras by up to 28%, and reduce the number of relay nodes by up to 47%.
A Lower Bound for Sampling Disjoint Sets
Authors: Göös Mika , Watson Thomas
Published: July 2020

Suppose Alice and Bob each start with private randomness and no other input, and they wish to engage in a protocol in which Alice ends up with a set
x
⊆ [
n
] and Bob ends up with a set
y
⊆ [
n
], such that (
x
,
y
) is uniformly distributed over all pairs of disjoint sets. We prove that for some constant β < 1, this requires Ω (
n
) communication even to get within statistical distance 1− β

n

of the target distribution. Previously, Ambainis, Schulman, Ta-Shma, Vazirani, and Wigderson (FOCS 1998) proved that Ω (√
n
) communication is required to get within some constant statistical distance ɛ > 0 of the uniform distribution over all pairs of disjoint sets of size √
n
.
Liminal Light and Primate Evolution
Authors: Dominy Nathaniel J. , Melin Amanda D.
Published: July 2020

The adaptive origins of primates and anthropoid primates are topics of enduring interest to biological anthropologists. A convention in these discussions is to treat the light environment as binary—night is dark, day is light—and to impute corresponding selective pressure on the visual systems and behaviors of primates. In consequence, debate has tended to focus on whether a given trait can be interpreted as evidence of nocturnal or diurnal behavior in the primate fossil record. Such classification elides the variability in light, or the ways that primates internalize light in their environments. Here, we explore the liminality of light by focusing on what it is, its many sources, and its flux under natural conditions. We conclude by focusing on the intensity and spectral properties of twilight, and we review the mounting evidence of its importance as a cue that determines the onset or offset of primate activities as well as the entrainment of circadian rhythms.
Identifying Regulatory Elements via Deep Learning
Authors: Barshai Mira , Tripto Eitamar , Orenstein Yaron
Published: July 2020

Deep neural networks have been revolutionizing the field of machine learning for the past several years. They have been applied with great success in many domains of the biomedical data sciences and are outperforming extant methods by a large margin. The ability of deep neural networks to pick up local image features and model the interactions between them makes them highly applicable to regulatory genomics. Instead of an image, the networks analyze DNA and RNA sequences and additional epigenomic data. In this review, we survey the successes of deep learning in the field of regulatory genomics. We first describe the fundamental building blocks of deep neural networks, popular architectures used in regulatory genomics, and their training process on molecular sequence data. We then review several key methods in different gene regulation domains. We start with the pioneering method DeepBind and its successors, which were developed to predict protein–DNA binding. We then review methods developed to predict and model epigenetic information, such as histone marks and nucleosome occupancy. Following epigenomics, we review methods to predict protein–RNA binding with its unique challenge of incorporating RNA structure information. Finally, we provide our overall view of the strengths and weaknesses of deep neural networks and prospects for future developments.
Assembly of Bacterial Capsular Polysaccharides and Exopolysaccharides
Authors: Whitfield Chris , Wear Samantha S. , Sande Caitlin
Published: July 2020

Polysaccharides are dominant features of most bacterial surfaces and are displayed in different formats. Many bacteria produce abundant long-chain capsular polysaccharides, which can maintain a strong association and form a capsule structure enveloping the cell and/or take the form of exopolysaccharides that are mostly secreted into the immediate environment. These polymers afford the producing bacteria protection from a wide range of physical, chemical, and biological stresses, support biofilms, and play critical roles in interactions between bacteria and their immediate environments. Their biological and physical properties also drive a variety of industrial and biomedical applications. Despite the immense variation in capsular polysaccharide and exopolysaccharide structures, patterns are evident in strategies used for their assembly and export. This review describes recent advances in understanding those strategies, based on a wealth of biochemical investigations of select prototypes, supported by complementary insight from expanding structural biology initiatives. This provides a framework to identify and distinguish new systems emanating from genomic studies.
T95 nucleophosmin phosphorylation as a novel mediator and marker of regulated cell death in acute kidney injury
Authors: Wang Zhiyong , Belghasem Mostafa , Salih Erdjan , Henderson Joel , Igwebuike Chinaemere , Havasi Andrea , Borkan Steven C.
Published: July 2020

The function of site-specific phosphorylation of nucleophosmin (NPM), an essential Bax chaperone, in stress-induced cell death is unknown. We hypothesized that NPM threonine 95 (T95) phosphorylation both signals and promotes cell death. In resting cells, NPM exclusively resides in the nucleus and T95 is nonphosphorylated. In contrast, phosphorylated T95 NPM (pNPM T95) accumulates in the cytosol after metabolic stress, in multiple human cancer cell lines following γ-radiation, and in postischemic human kidney tissue. Based on the T95 phosphorylation consensus sequence, we hypothesized that glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) regulates cytosolic NPM translocation by phosphorylating T95 NPM. In a cell-free system, GSK-3β phosphorylated a synthetic NPM peptide containing T95. In vitro, bidirectional manipulation of GSK-3β activity substantially altered T95 phosphorylation, cytosolic NPM translocation, and cell survival during stress, mechanistically linking these lethal events. Furthermore, GSK-3β inhibition in vivo decreased cytosolic pNPM T95 accumulation in kidney tissue after experimental ischemia. In patients with acute kidney injury, both cytosolic NPM accumulation in proximal tubule cells and NPM-rich intratubular casts were detected in frozen renal biopsy tissue. These observations show, for the first time, that GSK-3β promotes cell death partly by phosphorylating NPM at T95, to promote cytosolic NPM accumulation. T95 NPM is also a rational therapeutic target to ameliorate ischemic renal cell injury and may be a universal injury marker in mammalian cells.
Event-Based Sampled-Data Average Consensus
Authors: Gong Hang , Wu Fangke , Liu Runzhi , Jin Xin , Zhou Wei , Chu Xing
Published: July 2020

This study addresses one of the most essential distributed control problems in multiagent systems, called the average consensus issue, using a new event-triggered sampling control perspective. Although the continuous-time sampling for average consensus has provided good results currently, a systematic investigation into the continuous-time agent dynamics with sampled-data control inputs under an event-triggered mechanism is critically lacking. The problem considered in this paper can be formulated into an average consensus problem of hybrid systems. The method considers three types of control schemes, among which periodic sampling is integrant. The first scheme is a classical sampling controller reinvestigated through a lemma. The second scheme realizes aperiodic control update as well as periodic communication, while the third scheme achieves both aspects aperiodically. Corresponding sufficient conditions of the aforementioned three schemes are derived such that the asymptotic stability of systems is ensured by using algebraic graph theory, matrix analysis, and Lyapunov theory. The constraints for the allowed sampling period, event parameter, and maximum eigenvalue of graph Laplacian are explicitly derived. Moreover, the potential Zeno behavior of agents due to the sampling control theory is avoided. Thus, a digitally implementable technique is provided. Finally, some numerical examples are provided to verify the effectiveness of the proposed theoretical analysis.
Reprocessing of Contaminated MGIT 960 Cultures to Improve Availability of Valid Results for Mycobacteria
Authors: Subramanyam Balaji , Sivaramakrishnan Gomathi , Sangamithrai Devi , Ravi Rajkumar , Thiruvengadam Kannan , Vijayaragavan Vaishnavi , Selvaraju Ayswarya , Tripathy Srikanth Prasad , Mondal Rajesh
Published: July 2020

Optimal recovery of mycobacteria from the contaminated liquid culture is a challenge. While alternative methods have been suggested to reduce the rate of contamination in the BACTEC MGIT 960 system, reprocessing the contaminated liquid culture improves recovery of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Among 793 MGIT cultures raised from as many sputum specimens after primary decontamination by the standard NaLC-NaOH method, valid results were available for 687 (86.6%) as 106 (13.4%) were contaminated. Reprocessing and reculturing of the contaminated cultures increased valid results to 739 (93.2%) and reduced the contamination rate to 6.8%. Both values were statistically significant. Recovery of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex increased from 45.6% to 48.4%. Valid negative results were available for an additional 3.4%. The method may be adopted to reduce the rate of contamination and to improve the valid culture results for mycobacteria.
Asymptomatic Bacteriuria among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care at Hiwot Fana Specialized University Hospital, Harar, Eastern Ethiopia: Magnitude, Associated Factors, and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Pattern
Authors: Edae Mekuria , Teklemariam Zelalem , Weldegebreal Fitsum , Abate Degu
Published: July 2020

Background. Asymptomatic bacteriuria is one of the major risk factors for the development of urinary tract infections during pregnancy which accounts for about 70% of the cases. However, there is no guideline which recommends routine screening of pregnant women for asymptomatic bacteriuria in most of developing countries including Ethiopia. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine the magnitude, associated factors, and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of asymptomatic bacteriuria among pregnant women. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted from March to April 2019. Data were collected through face-to-face interview and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science version 22. A test of association was performed using logistic regression and P value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results. The overall prevalence of asymptomatic bacteriuria was 19.9%. Direction of wiping after genital wash, postcoital urination, and catheterization were factors significantly associated with asymptomatic bacteriuria. Most of the isolated Gram positive were highly sensitive to Ceftriaxone (90.9%). Coagulase-negative staphylococci showed higher sensitivity to Augmentin (75.0) and Ceftriaxone (87.5%), whereas they showed resistance to Clindamycin (68.7%) and Ampicillin (62.5%). Gram-negative bacteria isolates showed higher sensitivity to Ceftriaxone (88.2%), Gentamycin (67.5%), and Augmentin (64.7%), while they showed resistance to Ampicillin (70.5%) and Clindamycin (50.0%). Conclusion. The overall prevalence of asymptomatic bacteriuria among pregnant women in this study was high. Direction of wiping after genital wash, catheterization, and postcoital urination increases the odds of asymptomatic bacteriuria. Therefore, health education on the predisposing factors is strongly recommended.