bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on Assisted Driving Technology based on Improved YOLOv3
Authors: Zhao Long , Liu Xiaoye , Wang Qiang , Chen Honglong
Published: January 2020

In the era of automobile popularization, China and the developed countries such as Europe and the United States are facing the same problem of high car accidents. This paper uses deep learning technology to detect and identify lane lines, traffic lights, vehicles and pedestrians during driver driving. Improve the efficiency and accuracy of convolutional neural network training through migration learning and data enhancement techniques. Based on the current advanced YOLOv3 network, we have improved the network structure and loss function. The KITTI dataset has achieved the highest 2D target recognition accuracy, and the target recognition speed is higher than 36 frames/sec. The price of the assisted driving equipment we developed does not exceed RMB 5, 000, which has a good market prospect.
Robust Vehicle Detection on Multi- Resolution Aerial Images
Authors: Wang Ziao , Zhang Xiaofeng , Yang Xiaofei , Xia Wu
Published: January 2020

Detecting vehicles in aerial images is one of the core components for intelligent transportation system. This task is challenging due to the comparably small size of the target objects, the complex background and multi-perspective views. It is particularly difficult for the real-time detection cases where only several tens of milliseconds delays are allowed. In this paper, we propose an approach to detect vehicles from aerial images with different resolutions and perspectives in an approximate real-time manner. The proposed model is robust and can detect vehicles in various detection scenarios. It can detect vehicles from an image within 47 milliseconds. We evaluate our method on a challenging data set of original aerial images over Munich and our data set collected using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The experimental results have demonstrated that our proposed method is superior to the state-of-the- art algorithms with respect to accuracy, recall and detection time.
Design of an Access Control System Based on Face Recognition
Authors: Wu Qiong , Wang Qiang , Zhang Yuhao , Jiang Bin , Cao Yongcheng , Liu Fang
Published: January 2020

This paper studies design of an access control system based on face recognition for the major purpose of programming face recognition and access systems for embedded equipment. The access control system studied in this paper has functions regarding security, access control, personnel management, travel logs and time management. In this paper, face recognition algorithms are theoretically analyzed and derived. Based on face recognition algorithms, access control systems, particularly including face recognition algorithms, image processing and software, are designed and realized. Overall systematic debugging practices prove that aforementioned algorithms and software designs are correct and effective.
Trajectory Design and Mode Selection for a Cellular-based UAV Traffic Monitoring System
Authors: Wang Kai , Wu Fanyi , Xu Kaiming , Wu Jianjun
Published: January 2020

In this paper, we propose to enable cellular networks to support a UAV traffic monitoring system, in which multiple UAVs are required to record videos from the target roads, and then transmit their video data back to the ground stations over the cellular spectrum. In this system, the video data can be transmitted directly to the ground stations bypassing the base station (BS), or via the traditional cellular links. Each UAV should select its transmission mode from the direct mode and the cellular mode as it preforms traffic monitoring tasks. Since the mode selections are influenced by the trajectories of UAVs, we study the trajectory design problem for UAVs in consideration of their transmission modes under a reinforcement learning (RL) framework. Then, we propose a trajectory design algorithm to solve this problem. Simulation results show that our proposed algorithm outperforms the single-agent one.
Road Segmentation based on Deep Learning with Post-Processing Probability Layer
Authors: Chen Weibin
Published: January 2020

In order to solve the problem of road image semantics segmentation, a novel semantic segmentation method based on deep learning is proposed in this paper, and it is verified that this method can optimize the segmentation effectively comaring with traditional Full Convolution Neural Network (FCN) model. Firstly, the traditional Full Convolution Neural Network model is constructed. And then according to the principle of the post-processing probability layer method proposed in this paper, the label of all road image training sets is used to compute and transform it to form a two-dimensional array which can represent the classification probability of each pixel, and it is combined with the Full Convolution Neural Network model to be used for road image semantics segmentation. Secondly, the tensorflow neural network framework is used to simulate the above two models. Finally, the experimental results show that the CNN model with the proposed post-processing probabilistic layer is able to get better results in road semantics segmentation in KITTI data sets. The pixel accuracy is improved from 88.8% to 91.3%, and the mean pixel accuracy is increased from 82.9% to 85.7%. The mean intersection over union increased from 72.5% to 77.9%.
Research on UAV Point Landing based on Visual Navigation
Authors: He Boyong , Meng Chen , Wu Liaoni
Published: January 2020

In this paper, the point landing technology based on visual navigation is studied on a rotor UAV flight platform. By contrasting different flight datum, several common image recognition and tracking algorithms are compared such as blob analysis, CamShift and KCF. Thus, automatic and manual methods are respectively designed for identifying ground targets, with rapidity, accuracy and robustness. After testing on UAV onboard equipment, the point landing technology based on visual navigation is finally achieved.
Dynamic Expression Recognition Based on Hybrid Features and Optimized Extreme Learning Machine Model
Authors: Sui Xiujuan , Xue Lei , Li Dunyu
Published: January 2020

Facial expression recognition is an academic subject, and it can be applied not only in the field of computer vision but also in psychology and sociology. This paper proposed a robust dynamic facial expression recognition method which using hybrid features and the PSOELM (Particle Swarm Optimization-Extreme Learning Machine) model. At first, six PSOELM models were trained on the training set of six basic expressions, respectively. Then by extracting the hybrid features which fusing geometric features and texture features, the dynamic expressions were recognized by PSO-ELM models. These experiments were performed on the Cohn-Kanade+ face database. The results show that this method has a better recognition effect on dynamic facial expression recognition.
Research and Design of Integrated System of Headphone Amplifier Based on Bluetooth Technology
Authors: Wang Hong , Wang Lina , Zhang Xuehao
Published: January 2020

Traditional earphones and speakers need to use audio cables to connect mobile devices and sounding units when using audio files of mobile devices such as mobile phones as audio input sources. This paper proposes a solution to this problem. This paper studies and designs a power headphone amplifier integrated system based on Bluetooth technology with STM32F407 as the main control core. The system uses CSR8670 Bluetooth audio SoC chip to realize Bluetooth audio transmission, uses TPA6112 headphone audio amplifier to realize amp function, uses HT8696 class D power amplifier to realize speaker power amplifier function, uses 3.2 inch resistive touch screen to realize human-computer interaction function, and the system introduces STemWin graphics library Implement human-machine UI interface. The system is more practical in the independent output of the amp and the speaker power amplifier circuit, the control method is more humanized, and the human-machine experience is better, which plays a driving role for the popularization of the smart home.
DFT based estimation of CNT parameters and simulation-study of GAA CNTFET for nano scale applications
Authors: Singh Bhoop , B Prasad , Kumar Dinesh
Published: January 2020

The device dimensions have been consistently scaling down since many developing technologies need smaller and faster integrated circuits for advancement and improvement in both performance and device density. Device dimensions have been decreased drastically from micron to sub nanometer regime. Traditionally, miniaturizing and performance improvement was obtained by tweaking the MOSFET- reducing the channel lengths and gate oxide thickness, increasing dielectric constants etc Unfortunately at 22 nm node it reached a dead end. However, at 22 nm node the tri-gate FinFET introduced by Intel Corporation have provided many possibilities for scaling the dimensions with satisfactory device performance. Further, the gate all around (GAA) carbon nano tube field effect transistor (CNTFET) provides high gain, high trans-conductance, reduced short channel effects and conditions for scaling the technology to sub nano scale. Due to surround gate structure this GAA CNTFET offers better control with integration of high_k stacked dielectric wrapped around the channel. In this paper, first properties of Carbon nanotube (CNT) have been comprehensively studied for various chirality and diameter and parameters viz. Density of States (DoS) and Band gap (Eg) are extracted by using MedeA tool’s VASP 5.3 module. The various CNT chirality have been optimized and the extracted parameters used to model and simulate CNTFET using Silvaco’s Devedit3D, Atlas and Atlas3D modeling and simulation modules. The device input (ID-VGS ) and output (ID-VDS) characteristics have been intensively studied and parameters including ION /IOFF ratio, DIBL, sub threshold slope extracted and compared with the conventional devices. The GAA CNTFET device at 0.8 V supply voltage exhibits threshold voltage (VTH) 0.254 V, drain induced barrier lowering (DIBL) 72 mV/V, sub-threshold swing (SS) 63.29 mV/dec, and ION/ IOFF ratio 7.17e + 06. The results demonstrate improvement in device parameters for the GAA CNTFET device as compared to bulk silicon and FinFET devices.
High temperature oxidation behavior of heat resistant steel with rare earth element Ce
Authors: Wang Shuai , Zheng Zhibin , Zheng Kaihong , Long Jun , Wang Juan , Ren Yuyan , Li Yingmin
Published: January 2020

This study examined the oxidation properties of rare earth steel at high temperatures (600 °C–900 °C) in the air atmosphere by using Scanning Electronic Microscope (SEM) with an energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), x-ray diffraction analyzer (XRD) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) analysis method. High temperature oxidation experiment showed that rare earth element Ce played a very good antioxidant effect with the increasing oxidation temperature. After continuous oxidation at 600 °C, 700 °C, 800 °C and 900 °C for 150 h, the mass gain of the rare earth steel were 1.25 mg cm−2, 2.41 mg cm−2, 12.34 mg cm−2, and 13.37 mg cm−2, respectively. In comparison, the matrix steel under the same conditions were 1.31 mg cm−2, 2.94 mg cm−2, 13.98 mg cm−2, and 15.63 mg cm−2, respectively. AFM features of the oxidized surface confirmed that the rare earth element Ce could inhibit the growth rate of the oxide in the early stage of oxidation, and preferentially promote the formation of the spinel oxide. The surface-dense spinel oxide (Fe, Cr, Ni, Mn)3O4, the enrichment of Cr-containing layer in the middle, and the formation of the Si-rich oxide in the inner layer all affected the high-temperature oxidation resistance of the rare earth steel.
Common Hirota form Bäcklund transformation for the unified Soliton system
Authors: Hayashi Masahito , Shigemoto Kazuyasu , Tsukioka Takuya
Published: January 2020

We study to unify soliton systems, KdV/mKdV/sinh-Gordon, through SO(2,1) ≅ GL(2,

R

) ≅ Möbius group point of view, which might be a keystone to exactly solve some special non-linear differential equations. If we construct the N-soliton solutions through the KdV type Bäcklund transformation, we can transform different KdV/mKdV/sinh-Gordon equations and the Bäcklund transformations of the standard form into the same common Hirota form and the same common Bäcklund transformation except the equation which has the time-derivative term. The difference is only the time-dependence and the main structure of the N-soliton solutions has the same common form for KdV/mKdV/sinh-Gordon systems. Then the N-soliton solutions for the sinh-Gordon equation is obtained just by the replacement from KdV/mKdV N-soliton solutions. We also give general addition formulae coming from the KdV type Bäcklund transformation which plays not only an important role to construct the trigonometric/hyperbolic N-soliton solutions but also an essential role to construct the elliptic N-soliton solutions. In contrast to the KdV type Bäcklund transformation, the well-known mKdV/sinh-Gordon type Bäcklund transformation gives the non-cyclic symmetric N-soliton solutions. We give an explicit non-cyclic symmetric 3-soliton solution for KdV/mKdV/sinh-Gordon equations.
Asian megacity heat stress under future climate scenarios: impact of air-conditioning feedback
Authors: Takane Yuya , Ohashi Yukitaka , Grimmond C Sue B , Hara Masayuki , Kikegawa Yukihiro
Published: January 2020

Future heat stress under six future global warming (ΔT

GW
) scenarios (IPCC RCP8.5) in an Asian megacity (Osaka) is estimated using a regional climate model with an urban canopy and air-conditioning (AC). An urban heat ‘stress’ island is projected in all six scenarios (ΔT

GW
 = +0.5 to +3.0 °C in 0.5 °C steps). Under ΔT

GW
 = +3.0 °C conditions, people outdoors experience ‘extreme’ heat stress, which could result in dangerously high increases in human body core temperature. AC-induced feedback increases heat stress roughly linearly as ΔT

GW
increases, reaching 0.6 °C (or 12% of the heat stress increase). As this increase is similar to current possible heat island mitigation techniques, this feedback needs to be considered in urban climate projections, especially where AC use is large.
On efficiency of earth-abundant chalcogenide photovoltaic materials buffered with CdS: the limiting effect of band alignment
Authors: Ghorbani Elaheh
Published: January 2020

Earth-abundant and environmentally-friendly Cu2–II–IV–VI4 (II = Sr, Ba; IV = Ge, Sn; VI = S,Se) are considered materials for the absorber layers in thin film solar cells. Attempts to understand and improve optoelectronic properties of these newly emerged absorbers resulted in an efficiency of 5.2% in less than two years. However, the energy band alignment at the buffer/absorber interface has not been studied yet; an information which is of crucial importance for designing high performance devices. Therefore, current study focuses on the band offsets between these materials and the CdS buffer. Using first-principles calculations, band discontinuities are calculated at the buffer/absorber interface. The results yield a type-II band alignment between all Cu2–II–IV–VI4 absorbers and CdS, hence a negative

Δ

E

c

. Adoption of a negative

Δ

E

c

(cliff-like conduction band offset) at the buffer/absorber interface, however, gives rise to low open circuit voltage and high interface-related recombinations. Therefore, it is necessary to search for an alternative buffer material that forms a type-I band alignment with these absorbers, where the conduction band minimum and the valence band maximum are both localized on the absorber side.
Genetically inspired in vitro reconstitution ofSaccharomyces cerevisiaeactin cables from seven purified proteins
Authors: Pollard Luther W. , Garabedian Mikael V. , Alioto Salvatore L. , Shekhar Shashank , Goode Bruce L.
Published: January 2020

Yeast actin cables are reconstituted from seven purified proteins, providing a powerful demonstration of how a minimal set of components can self-organize into a micron-scale structure that has many of the same features of actin cables found in vivo.
A Practical Approach to Artificial Intelligence in Plastic Surgery
Authors: Chandawarkar Akash , Chartier Christian , Kanevsky Jonathan , Cress Phaedra E
Published: January 2020

Understanding the intersection of technology and plastic surgery has been and will be essential to positioning plastic surgeons at the forefront of surgical innovation. This account of the current and future applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in reconstructive and aesthetic surgery introduces us to the subset of issues amenable to support from this technology. It equips plastic surgeons with the knowledge to navigate technical conversations with peers, trainees, patients, and technical partners for collaboration and to usher in a new era of technology in plastic surgery. From the mathematical basis of AI to its commercially viable applications, topics introduced herein constitute a framework for design and execution of quantitative studies that will better outcomes and benefit patients. Finally, adherence to the principles of quality data collection will leverage and amplify plastic surgeons’ creativity and undoubtedly drive the field forward.
The Effect of Gender and Stigma on the Self-Reported Likelihood of Seeking Social Workers’ Help by Social Workers versus Non Social Workers
Authors: Kagan Maya , Itzick Michal
Published: January 2020

The current study examines the likelihood of seeking social workers’ help by social workers compared with non-social workers, taking into consideration their gender and the prevalence of stigma attached to seeking social workers' help. Data collection utilised structured questionnaires administered to a sample of 802 participants, of whom 355 were social workers and 447 non-social workers. The findings indicate that social workers, regardless of their gender, reported a higher likelihood than non-social workers of seeking help from social workers. Female social workers reported a higher likelihood of seeking social workers’ help than male social workers. High levels of stigma were associated with a lower likelihood of seeking social worker help regardless of the respondents’ gender or professional status. The current study highlights the importance of social workers’ professional socialisation with regard to seeking social workers’ help, with a special emphasis on raising male social workers’ awareness of the importance of seeking help. In addition, the study emphasises that the general public is less likely than social workers to seek social workers' help, regardless of gender, and that stigma is a barrier to seeking help. Implications for the practice of social workers are discussed.
The Limited Utility of Ranking Hospitals Based on Their Colon Surgery Infection Rates
Authors: Caroff Daniel A , Wang Rui , Zhang Zilu , Wolf Robert , Septimus Ed , Harris Anthony D , Jackson Sarah S , Poland Russell E , Hickok Jason , Huang Susan S , Platt Richard
Published: January 2020

Background

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) use colon surgical site infection (SSI) rates to rank hospitals and apply financial penalties. The CMS’ risk-adjustment model omits potentially impactful variables that might disadvantage hospitals with complex surgical populations.

Methods

We analyzed adult patients who underwent colon surgery within facilities associated with HCA Healthcare from 2014 to 2016. SSIs were identified from National Health Safety Network (NHSN) reporting. We trained and validated 3 SSI prediction models, using (1) current CMS model variables, including hospital-specific random effects (HCA-adapted CMS model); (2) demographics and claims-based comorbidities (expanded-claims model); and (3) demographics, claims-based comorbidities, and NHSN variables (claims-plus–electronic health record [EHR] model). Discrimination, calibration, and resulting rankings were compared among all models and the current CMS model with published coefficient values.

Results

We identified 39 468 colon surgeries in 149 hospitals, resulting in 1216 (3.1%) SSIs. Compared to the HCA-adapted CMS model, the expanded-claims model had similar performance (c-statistic, 0.65 vs 0.67, respectively), while the claims-plus-EHR model was more accurate (c-statistic, 0.70; 95% confidence interval, .67–.73; P = .004). The sampling variation, due to the low surgical volume and small number of infections, contributed 74% of the total variation in observed SSI rates between hospitals. When CMS model rankings were compared to those from the expanded-claims and claims-plus-EHR models, 18 (15%) and 26 (22%) hospitals changed quartiles, respectively, and 10 (8.3%) and 12 (10%) hospitals changed into or out of the lowest-performing quartile, respectively.

Conclusions

An expanded set of variables improved colon SSI risk predictions and quartile assignments, but low procedure volumes and SSI events remain a barrier to effectively comparing hospitals.
Incidence of Tetanus and Diphtheria in Relation to Adult Vaccination Schedules
Authors: Slifka Ariel M , Park Byung , Gao Lina , Slifka Mark K
Published: January 2020

Background

The World Health Organization (WHO) does not recommend routine adult booster vaccination for tetanus and diphtheria after completion of the childhood vaccination series. However, many countries continue to implement adult booster vaccinations, leading to the question of whether this is necessary to reduce the incidence of these 2 rare diseases.

Methods

We conducted an observational cohort study based on WHO case reports from 2001 through 2016. We compared the incidence of tetanus and diphtheria in 31 North American and European countries that either do or do not recommend adult booster vaccination.

Results

Countries that vaccinate adults every 5–20 years (group 1) were compared with countries that do not routinely vaccinate adults for tetanus or diphtheria (group 2). Comparison of group 1 vs group 2 revealed no significant decline in tetanus incidence rates among countries that vaccinate adults (P = .52; risk ratio [RR] = 0.78; 95% confidence interval [CI], .36 to 1.70). The risk of contracting diphtheria was increased among countries that vaccinate adults due to inclusion of Latvia, a country that had poor vaccination coverage (P < .001). However, if Latvia is excluded, there is no difference in diphtheria incidence between countries that do or do not routinely vaccinate adults (P = .26; RR = 2.46; 95% CI, .54 to 11.23).

Conclusions

Review of >11 billion person-years of incidence data revealed no benefit associated with performing adult booster vaccinations against tetanus or diphtheria. Similar to other vaccines, this analysis supports the WHO position on adult booster vaccination and, if approved by governing health authorities, this may allow more countries to focus healthcare resources on vulnerable and undervaccinated populations.
Altered stresses and dynamics after single and double annuloplasty ring for aortic valve repair
Authors: Benhassen Leila Louise , Hedensted Jacob Hesselby , Sharghbin Mona , Skov Søren Nielsen , Carlson Hanse Lisa , Tjørnild Marcell Juan , Bechsgaard Tommy , Ropcke Diana Mathilde , Nielsen Sten Lyager , Hasenkam John Michael
Published: January 2020

OBJECTIVES

Aortic valve repair procedures for the treatment of isolated aortic valve insufficiency may be improved by stabilizing the functional aortic annulus using a double annuloplasty ring at the aortic annulus and sinotubular junction (STJ). The objective of this study was to compare the geometrical changes and aortic root stress distribution when using a single subvalvular ring and a double sub- and supravalvular ring in vivo.

METHODS

Both the single- and double-ring procedures were performed successively in nine 80-kg pigs. Measurements were performed intraoperatively using sonomicrometry crystals in the aortic root to evaluate geometrical changes and annular and STJ force transducers measuring the segmental radial stress distribution.

RESULTS

The total force in the STJ was significantly reduced after the double-ring procedure from 1.7 ± 0.6 to 0.04 ± 1.1 N (P = 0.001). The double-ring procedure significantly reduced the STJ area from 234.8 ± 37.6 to 147.5 ± 31.8 mm2 (P = 0.001) and expansibility from 17 ± 6% to 8 ± 3% (P = 0.001). With the single-ring procedure, the STJ shape was circular but became more oval with the double-ring procedure. The double-ring procedure did not affect stress distribution or geometry in the aortic annulus.

CONCLUSIONS

The double-ring procedure stabilized the whole aortic root by reducing radial stress distribution in the STJ more efficiently than the single-ring procedure. Both area and expansibility were reduced with the double-ring procedure. These results confirm the importance of addressing the entire functional aortic annulus for optimal aortic valve repair procedures.
Rethinking Unfair Competition Justifications in Brazil
Authors: Krueger Pela Juliana
Published: January 2020

Curbing unfair competition is usually justified in Brazil by the need to avoid unfair trade practices. These are defined in accordance with ethical criteria for the purpose of securing the interests of competitors. This article summarizes and scrutinizes such traditional justifications for unfair competition prohibition in Brazil. It seeks to contribute to the improvement of the unfair competition rules in Brazilian law, drawing on the reflections of Reto M Hilty concerning the harmonization of European law in this area.
The recalibration of Chinese assertiveness: China's responses to the Indo-Pacific challenge
Authors: Liu Feng
Published: January 2020

In response to the changing geopolitical landscape in Asia, both China and the United States attempt to alter the regional order in their own favour, both in the economic and security realms. This article shows how diverging views on future arrangements are leading to strategic shifts and increasing tension between these two Great Powers. As part of its quest for Great-Power status, China has been actively pushing its regional initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), as well as adopting assertive security policies towards its neighbours. In contrast, in order to counter China's growing influence America's regional strategy is undergoing a subtle shift from ‘rebalancing to Asia’ to focusing on the ‘Indo-Pacific’ region. However, amid an intensifying trade war and other challenges facing the region, China has chosen to moderate its proactive foreign policy-orientation in the past few years. In particular, China has made attempts to downplay its domestic rhetoric, rebuild strategic relationship with India and Japan, and to reassure ASEAN states in the South China Sea. In response to the Indo-Pacific strategy, it would be more effective for China to articulate a more inclusive regional vision and promote an institutional framework that also accommodates a US presence in the region.
Where is the Anthropocene? IR in a new geological epoch
Authors: Simangan Dahlia
Published: January 2020

Several disciplines outside the natural sciences, including International Relations (IR), have engaged with the Anthropocene discourse in order to theorize their relevance and translate their practical value in this new phase of the Earth's history. Some IR scholars have called for a post-humanist IR, planet politics, a cosmopolitan view, and ecological security, among other approaches, to recalibrate the theoretical foundations of the discipline, making it more attuned to the realities of the Anthropocene. Existing discussions, however, tend to universalize human experience and gravitate towards western ontologies and epistemologies of living in the Anthropocene. Within this burgeoning scholarship, how is the IR discipline engaging with the Anthropocene discourse? Although the Anthropocene has become a new theoretical landscape for the conceptual broadening of conventional IR subjects, this review reveals the need for sustained discussion that highlights the differentiated human experiences in the Anthropocene. The existing IR publications on the Anthropocene locates the non-spatial narratives of vulnerability and historical injustice, the non-modernist understanding of nature, the agency of the vulnerable, and the amplification of security issues in the Anthropocene. It is in amplifying these narratives that the IR discipline can broaden and diversify the discourse on the Anthropocene and, therefore, affirm its relevance in this new geological age.
Serum Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4: A Predictor of Disease Activity and Prognosis in Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Pinto-Lopes Pedro , Afonso Joana , Pinto-Lopes Rui , Rocha Cátia , Lago Paula , Gonçalves Raquel , Tavares De Sousa Helena , Macedo Guilherme , Camila Dias Cláudia , Magro Fernando
Published: January 2020

Background

Serum dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP-4) has drawn particular interest as a biomarker in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), as this protease inactivates several peptides that participate in the inflammatory cascade.

Methods

Two prospectively recruited cohorts consisting of 195 patients (101 had Crohn’s disease [CD] and 94 had ulcerative colitis [UC]) were evaluated using clinical indexes and followed up to assess for treatment escalation. Sixty-eight patients underwent endoscopic evaluation at baseline. In the second cohort of 46 biologically treated patients, treatment response was assessed. Serum DPP-4, C-reactive protein (CRP), and fecal calprotectin levels were quantified at baseline and during follow-up.

Results

Median DPP-4 levels were significantly lower in active IBD patients when compared with remitters (CD: 1043 [831–1412] vs 1589 [1255–1956] ng/mL; P < 0.001; UC: 1317 [1058–1718] vs 1798 [1329–2305] ng/mL; P = 0.001) and healthy controls (2175 [1875–3371] ng/mL). In fact, DPP-4 was able to distinguish clinical and endoscopic activity from remission, with areas under the curve (AUC) of 0.81/0.93 (CD) and 0.71/0.79 (UC), along with the need for treatment escalation, with comparable AUCs of 0.79 (CD) and 0.77 (UC). Furthermore, DPP-4 levels were higher in responders to treatment and more pronounced among UC (1467 [1301–1641] vs 1211 [1011–1448] ng/mL; P < 0.001) than CD patients (1385 [1185–1592] vs 1134 [975–1469] ng/mL; P = 0.015).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that serum DPP-4 can be used as a noninvasive biomarker of IBD activity and biological treatment response and a predictor of treatment escalation, particularly when combined with other biomarkers.
Does routine fenestration improve early and late postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing Fontan palliation?
Authors: Toncu Alexandra , Rădulescu Cristina Ramona , Dorobanţu Dan , Stoica Șerban
Published: January 2020

A best evidence topic in cardiac surgery was written according to a structured protocol. The question addressed was: ‘In [patients undergoing Fontan palliation] does [fenestration] affect [early and late postoperative outcomes]?’ Altogether 509 papers were found using the reported search, of which 11 papers represented the best evidence to answer the clinical question. The authors, journal, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes and results of these papers are tabulated. Current data suggest that the use of fenestration has advantages in the immediate postoperative course, with fewer complications such as pleural effusions, shorter hospitalization and decreased early Fontan failure, but comparable long-term outcomes to a non-fenestrated approach. Fenestration should be used in high-risk patients or based on the haemodynamic parameters measured before weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass. Routine use may potentially lead to additional late fenestration closure procedures in some patients, without improving long-term outcomes.
Cardiac Performance of Free-Swimming Wild Sockeye Salmon during the Reproductive Period
Authors: Prystay T S , de Bruijn R , Peiman K S , Hinch S G , Patterson D A , Farrell A P , Eliason E J , Cooke S J
Published: January 2020

Synopsis

Researchers have surmised that the ability to obtain dominance during reproduction is related to an individual’s ability to better sequester the energy required for reproductive behaviors and develop secondary sexual characteristics, presumably through enhanced physiological performance. However, studies testing this idea are limited. Using sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka), we explored the relationship between heart rate and dominance behavior during spawning. We predicted that an individual’s reproductive status and energy requirements associated with dominance can be assessed by relating routine heart rate to changes in spawning status over time (i.e., shifts among aggregation, subordinance, and dominance). Thus, we used routine heart rate as a proxy of relative energy expenditure. Heart rate increased with temperature, as expected, and was higher during the day than at night, a known diel pattern that became less pronounced as the spawning period progressed. Routine heart rate did not differ between sexes and average heart rate of the population did not differ among reproductive behaviors. At the individual level, heart rate did not change as behavior shifted from one state to another (e.g., dominance versus aggregation). No other trends existed between routine heart rate and sex, secondary sexual characteristics, survival duration or spawning success (for females only). Therefore, while our study revealed the complexity of the relationships between cardiac performance and reproductive behaviors in wild fish and demonstrated the importance of considering environmental factors when exploring individual heart rate, we found no support for heart rate being related to specific spawning behavioral status or secondary sexual characteristics.
Functional Morphology and Morphological Diversification of Hind Limb Cross-Sectional Traits in Mustelid Mammals
Authors: Parsi-Pour P , Kilbourne B M
Published: January 2020

Synopsis

Locomotor habits in mammals are strongly tied to limb bones’ lengths, diameters, and proportions. By comparison, fewer studies have examined how limb bone cross-sectional traits relate to locomotor habit. Here, we tested whether climbing, digging, and swimming locomotor habits reflect biomechanically meaningful differences in three cross-sectional traits rendered dimensionless— cross-sectional area (CSA), second moments of area (SMA), and section modulus (MOD)—using femora, tibiae, and fibulae of 28 species of mustelid. CSA and SMA represent resistance to axial compression and bending, respectively, whereas MOD represents structural strength. Given the need to counteract buoyancy in aquatic environments and soil’s high density, we predicted that natatorial and fossorial mustelids have higher values of cross-sectional traits. For all three traits, we found that natatorial mustelids have the highest values, followed by fossorial mustelids, with both of these groups significantly differing from scansorial mustelids. However, phylogenetic relatedness strongly influences diversity in cross-sectional morphology, as locomotor habit strongly correlates with phylogeny. Testing whether hind limb bone cross-sectional traits have evolved adaptively, we fit Ornstein–Uhlenbeck (OU) and Brownian motion (BM) models of trait diversification to cross-sectional traits. The cross-sectional traits of the femur, tibia, and fibula appear to have, respectively, diversified under a multi-rate BM model, a single rate BM model, and a multi-optima OU model. In light of recent studies on mustelid body size and elongation, our findings suggest that the mustelid body plan—and perhaps that of other mammals—is likely the sum of a suite of traits evolving under different models of trait diversification.
International promotion of e-Bug, an infection prevention and control educational intervention: survey of partners across 14 countries
Authors: Hayes Catherine , Young Vicki , Brown Carla , Touboul Lundgren Pia , Gennimata Dimitra , Holt Jette , Weisheit Egbert , Rico Arantza , Garcia Carlos , De Castro Paola , McNulty Cliodna A M
Published: January 2020

Background

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global threat to public health. e-Bug is an educational resource developed and promoted by a network of international partners. e-Bug seeks to reduce the spread of infection and use of antimicrobials in young people and the community, so helping to control AMR. This study aimed to explore how e-Bug is promoted by international partners and observe barriers to promotion, including the extent of education about antibiotics in schools.

Methods

A total of 29 e-Bug partners were invited to complete online questionnaires on (i) methods they use to promote e-Bug; and (ii) antibiotic topics covered in the national curriculum in their countries.

Results

Fourteen and 15 of 29 e-Bug partners across Europe and Palestine completed the promotional activities and curriculum questionnaires respectively. The most frequently reported methods of promotion included endorsement and collaboration with government and non-government sectors and involvement in national and global health awareness campaigns. Barriers to promotion included a lack of time and funding. The curriculum survey data showed variation in antibiotic education across Europe and Palestine, lack of antibiotic education for children under 11 years of age and little change in antibiotic topics included in the curriculum since 2006.

Conclusions

Future and existing e-Bug partners should be encouraged to follow promotional activities reported in this paper, including ministry endorsement, educator training, international campaigns and youth programmes. We encourage all countries to increase antibiotic topics in the school curriculum across all ages.
Examining 1:1 vs. 4:1 Packed Red Blood Cell to Fresh Frozen Plasma Ratio Transfusion During Pediatric Burn Excision
Authors: Tejiram Shawn , Sen Soman , Romanowski Kathleen S , Greenhalgh David G , Palmieri Tina L
Published: January 2020

Blood transfusions following major burn injury are common due to operative losses, blood sampling, and burn physiology. While massive transfusion improves outcomes in adult trauma patients, literature examining its effect in critically ill children is limited. The study purpose was to prospectively compare outcomes of major pediatric burns receiving a 1:1 vs. 4:1 packed red blood cell to fresh frozen plasma transfusion strategy during massive burn excision. Children with >20% total body surface area burns were randomized to a 1:1 or 4:1 packed red blood cell/fresh frozen plasma transfusion ratio during burn excision. Parameters examined include patient demographics, burn size, pediatric risk of mortality (PRISM) scores, pediatric logistic organ dysfunction scores, laboratory values, total blood products transfused, and the presence of blood stream infections or pneumonia. A total of 68 children who met inclusion criteria were randomized into two groups (n = 34). Mean age, PRISM scores, estimated blood loss (600 ml (400–1175 ml) vs. 600 ml (300–1150 ml), P = 0.68), ventilator days (5 vs. 9, P = 0.47), and length of stay (57 vs. 60 days, P = 0.24) had no difference. No differences in frequency of blood stream infection (20 vs. 18, P = 0.46) or pneumonia events (68 vs. 116, P = 0.08) were noted. On multivariate analysis, only total body surface area burn size, inhalation injury, and PRISM scores (P < 0.05) were significantly associated with infections.
Rickettsia spp. Infecting Lone Star Ticks (Amblyomma americanum) (Acari: Ixodidae) in Monmouth County, New Jersey
Authors: Egizi Andrea , Gable Sydney , Jordan Robert A
Published: January 2020

Tick-borne rickettsiae are undergoing epidemiological changes in the eastern United States while human encounters with lone star ticks (Amblyomma americanum L.) have increased substantially. We used real-time polymerase chain reaction assays to test for three species of spotted fever group rickettsiae (SFGR) (Rickettsiales: Rickettsiaceae) in 1,858 nymphal A. americanum collected from Monmouth County, New Jersey, a coastal county with endemic Lyme disease and established tick surveillance. Out of the 1,858 tested, 465 (25.0%) were infected with Rickettsia amblyommatis Karpathy, a species of undetermined pathogenicity found frequently in A. americanum, while 1/1,858 (0.05%) contained Rickettsia rickettsii Brumpt, the agent of Rocky Mountain spotted fever. No ticks tested positive for mildly pathogenic Rickettsia parkeri Lackman, and no ticks were co-infected with multiple Rickettsia spp. Our results indicate that A. americanum could be involved in transmission of R. rickettsii to humans in New Jersey, albeit rarely. The much higher rates of R. amblyommatis infection are consistent with hypotheses that human sera reacting to this species could contribute to reports of mild SFGR cases.
From the Entorhinal Region via the Prosubiculum to the Dentate Fascia: Alzheimer Disease-Related Neurofibrillary Changes in the Temporal Allocortex
Authors: Braak Heiko , Del Tredici Kelly
Published: January 2020

The pathological process underlying Alzheimer disease (AD) unfolds predominantly in the cerebral cortex with the gradual appearance and regional progression of abnormal tau. Intraneuronal tau pathology progresses from the temporal transentorhinal and entorhinal regions into neocortical fields/areas of the temporal allocortex. Here, based on 95 cases staged for AD-related neurofibrillary changes, we propose an ordered progression of abnormal tau in the temporal allocortex. Initially, abnormal tau was limited to distal dendritic segments followed by tau in cell bodies of projection neurons of the transentorhinal/entorhinal layer pre-α. Next, abnormal distal dendrites accumulated in the prosubiculum and extended into the CA1 stratum oriens and lacunosum. Subsequently, altered dendrites developed in the CA2/CA3 stratum oriens and stratum lacunosum-moleculare, combined with tau-positive thorny excrescences of CA3/CA4 mossy cells. Finally, granule cells of the dentate fascia became involved. Such a progression might recapitulate a sequence of transsynaptic spreading of abnormal tau from 1 projection neuron to the next: From pre-α cells to distal dendrites in the prosubiculum and CA1; then, from CA1 or prosubicular pyramids to CA2 principal cells and CA3/CA4 mossy cells; finally, from CA4 mossy cells to dentate granule cells. The lesions are additive: Those from the previous steps persist.
Pediatric Idiopathic Basal Ganglia Calcification and Spherocytosis With Chromosome 8p11 Deletion
Authors: Morris Meaghan , Kwon Regina , Chen Liam
Published: January 2020

Idiopathic basal ganglia calcification (IBGC), also known as Fahr disease, is a rare neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the accumulation of extensive parenchymal and vascular calcifications in the basal ganglia, with variable calcifications elsewhere in the brain. Typically, IBGC presents with neurologic and psychiatric symptoms in middle-aged adults. Recent genetic studies have identified alterations in 4 genes causing IBGC, including alterations in SLC20A2 on chromosome 8p11.2. Currently, there are no clinical descriptions of patients with IBGC occurring within the context of a complex genetic syndrome. Here, we present a case of pediatric 8p11 deletion with IBGC, hereditary spherocytosis, vitreoretinopathy, and focal cortical dysplasia. We review multiple cases of IBGC with pediatric onset due to SLC20A2 deletion in the literature, and raise the consideration of IBGC in the evaluation of pediatric patients with 8p11.2 deletion syndromes.
Object Lessons in Victorian Education: Text, Object, Image
Authors: Korda Andrea
Published: January 2020

Lessons on common objects, known as ‘object lessons’, were a customary occurrence in Victorian schoolrooms. This article looks at Victorian object lessons around mid-century as a means of examining the variety of meanings that common objects, and particularly manufactured objects, might have held both inside and outside Victorian schoolrooms. While model scripts for object lessons circulated widely and clarified the meaning of common objects in print, the objects themselves had the potential to complicate and challenge these meanings. Drawing primarily on publications by Elizabeth Mayo and the Home and Colonial School Society (established in 1836), this article outlines the theological, industrial and imperialist ways of looking that informed the model object lesson. Yet close study of the objects employed in object lessons – feathers, an object lesson specimen box, and a series of illustrations of animals – demonstrates how full sensory engagement with material objects can disrupt these disciplined ways of looking and learning. The final section of the article describes the decline of object lesson pedagogies once they were established within the official curriculum for England and Wales over the course of the 1880s and 1890s. Increasingly, pictures and nature study came to replace common objects in Victorian schoolrooms, and had their own implications for the ways that schoolchildren were taught to look at and learn from the world around them.
Modelling the chemical evolution of Zr, La, Ce, and Eu in the Galactic discs and bulge
Authors: Grisoni V , Cescutti G , Matteucci F , Forsberg R , Jönsson H , Ryde N
Published: January 2020

We study the chemical evolution of Zr, La, Ce, and Eu in the Milky Way discs and bulge by means of chemical evolution models compared with spectroscopic data. We consider detailed chemical evolution models for the Galactic thick disc, thin disc, and bulge, which have been already tested to reproduce the observed [α/Fe] versus [Fe/H] diagrams and metallicity distribution functions for the three different components, and we apply them to follow the evolution of neutron capture elements. In the [Eu/Fe] versus [Fe/H] diagram, we observe and predict three distinct sequences corresponding to the thick disc, thin disc, and bulge, similar to what happens for the α-elements. We can nicely reproduce the three sequences by assuming different time-scales of formation and star formation efficiencies for the three different components, with the thin disc forming on a longer time-scale of formation with respect to the thick disc and bulge. On the other hand, in the [X/Fe] versus [Fe/H] diagrams for Zr, La, and Ce, the three populations are mixed and also from the model point of view there is an overlapping between the predictions for the different Galactic components, but the observed behaviour can be also reproduced by assuming different star formation histories in the three components. In conclusions, it is straightforward to see how different star formation histories can lead to different abundance patterns and also looking at the abundance patterns of neutron capture elements can help in constraining the history of formation and evolution of the major Galactic components.