bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BUILDING OUTLINE DELINEATION: FROM VERY HIGH RESOLUTION REMOTE SENSING IMAGERY TO POLYGONS WITH AN IMPROVED END-TO-END LEARNING FRAMEWORK
Authors: Zhao W. , Ivanov I. , Persello C. , Stein A.
Published: August 2020

Abstract. Deep learning methods based on Fully convolution networks (FCNs) have shown an impressive progress in building outline delineation from very high resolution (VHR) remote sensing (RS) imagery. Common issues still exist in extracting precise building shapes and outlines, often resulting in irregular edges and over smoothed corners. In this paper, we use PolyMapper, a recently introduced deep-learning framework that is able to predict object outlines in a vector representation directly. We have introduced two main modifications to this baseline method. First, we introduce EffcientNet as backbone feature encoder to our network, which uses compound coefficient to scale up all dimensions of depth/width/resolution uniformly, to improve the processing speed with fewer parameters. Second, we integrate a boundary refinement block (BRB) to strengthen the boundary feature learning and to further improve the accuracy of corner prediction. The results demonstrate that the end-to-end learnable model is capable of delineating polygons of building outlines that closely approximate the structure of reference labels. Experiments on the crowdAI building instance segmentation datasets show that our model outperforms PolyMapper in all COCO metrics, for instance showing a 0.13 higher mean Average Precision (AP) value and a 0.60 higher mean Average Recall value. Also qualitative results show that our method segments building instances of various shapes more accurately.
3D LASER SCANNING SURVEY FOR CULTURAL HERITAGE. A FLEXIBLE METHODOLOGY TO OPTIMIZE DATA COLLECTION
Authors: Costantino C. , Prati D. , Predari G. , Bartolomei C.
Published: August 2020

Abstract. The paper describes an operational working methodology to be applied for surveys with phase-shift laser scanning, which allows defining a guidelines system to optimize in-field data collection. While reducing the number of scan positions still using the same quality, it is possible to obtain smaller files, in order to limit the computational requirements during editing and post-production. Nonetheless, this methodology guarantees results that are qualitatively comparable to the standard data collection process. Consequently, the angle ranges have been analyzed to find a value that guarantees for the survey a point cloud lighter and more manageable and, at the same time, that maintains a reasonable accuracy. Subsequently, two parameters were defined, “redundancy” and “closeness”, to find an operational process that allows to schematize what is usually achieved with the help of experience in the field: to evaluate the minimum number of scan points that can ensure the necessary overlap for optimal coverage of the entire building surveyed. After defining the study of the ideal situation, the model is applied in a case study, situated in a densely built context, typical of European historical urban centers: the main façade of the G. Ciamician Institute of Chemistry of the University of Bologna (Italy).
ON LAUSSEDAT’S CONTRIBUTION TO THE EMERGENCE OF PHOTOGRAMMETRY
Authors: Polidori L.
Published: August 2020

Abstract. The French officer Aimé Laussedat (1819–1907) is often considered as the “father of photogrammetry”. Indeed, he was the first to use photographic images for topographic surveys as early as 1861, based on a technique he called metrophotography, which he had already implemented with hand-drawn perspective views of edifications and mountainous landscapes. However, the development of analog photogrammetry at the beginning of the 20th century is not a direct evolution of Laussedat’s method and we can wonder what is his actual contribution to the emergence of photogrammetry when the first stereocomparators were created. Based on the influence of precursors like Beautemps-Beaupré and Arago, he developed a very innovative method but his main contribution remained mainly instrumental and he ignored some concepts or technologies which were available, like error computation, stereoscopy and aerial photography. These observations allow a more nuanced appreciation of his contribution.
IMAGE BLUR DETECTION METHOD BASED ON GRADIENT INFORMATION IN DIRECTIONAL STATISTICS
Authors: Takahashi Y. , Kuhara C. , Chikatsu H.
Published: August 2020

Abstract. Images are visually inspected for defects that affect downstream operations and qualitatively evaluated immediately after they are acquired. Therefore, there is concern that an increase in the number of images taken affects the quality and process of inspections. Among the defects qualitatively detected in visual inspections, blurring is a serious one, despite its low rate of appearance. However, the blurry images detected in the visual inspections can only be solved by the take another photograph. For this reason, it is not acceptable for any blurry images to be missed in the visual inspections. Therefore, quantitative evaluations are an issue when inspecting photographed images. In the present study, its characteristics in aerial photography were investigated and it was established that motion blur occurs in aerial photography. The motion blur is a condition in which the subject appears to have drifted. We focused on the gradient direction of the image, which is considered to be concentrated in a certain direction. The concept of directional statistics was used to statistically process the gradient direction. The evaluation values calculated from the gradient direction statistics tended to increase with the amount of blurring in the aerial photographs. An experiment was conducted to investigate whether images with blurring could be detected in a large number of aerial photographs. As a result, we were able to successfully detect blurred images that had been overlooked during the visual inspection as well as the images that had been previously detected during the visual inspection.
AN ITERATIVE APPROACH FOR SELF-CALIBRATING BUNDLE ADJUSTMENT
Authors: Wang J. L.
Published: August 2020

Abstract. Obtaining accurate image interior and exterior orientations is the key to improve 3D measurement accuracy besides reliable and accurate image matching. A majority of cameras used for those tasks are non-metric cameras. Non-metric cameras commonly suffer various distortions. Generally, there are two ways to remove these distortions: 1) conducting prior camera calibration in a controlled environment; 2) applying self-calibrating bundle adjustment in the application environment. Both approaches have their advantages and disadvantages but one thing is common that there is no universal calibration model available so far which can remove all sorts of distortions on images and systemic errors of image orientations. Instead of developing additional calibration models for camera calibration and self-calibrating adjustment, this paper presents a novel approach which applies self-calibrating bundle adjustment in an iterative fashion: after performing a conventional self-calibrating bundle adjustment, the image coordinates of tie points are re-calculated using the newly obtained self-calibration model coefficients, and the self-calibrating bundle adjustment is applied again in the hope that the remaining distortions and systematic errors will be reduced further within next a few iterations. Using a “virtual image” concept this iterative approach does not require to resample images or/and re-measure tie points during iterations, only costs a few additional iterations computational resource. Several trails under various application environments are conducted using this proposed iterative approach and the results indicate that not only the distortions can be reduced further but also image orientations become much stable after a few iterations.
MITIGATING IMAGE RESIDUALS SYSTEMATIC PATTERNS IN UNDERWATER PHOTOGRAMMETRY
Authors: Menna F. , Nocerino E. , Ural S. , Gruen A.
Published: August 2020

Abstract. Systematic errors may result from the adoption of an incomplete functional model that is not able to properly incorporate all the effects involved in the image formation process. These errors very likely appear as systematic residual patterns in image observations and produce deformations of the photogrammetric model in object space. The Brown/Beyer model of self-calibration is often adopted in underwater photogrammetry, although it does not take into account the refraction introduced by the passage of the optical ray through different media, i.e. air and water. This reduces the potential accuracy of photogrammetry underwater. In this work, we investigate through simulations the depth-dependent systematic errors introduced by unmodelled refraction effects when both flat and dome ports are used. The importance of camera geometry to reduce the deformation in the object space is analyzed and mitigation measures to reduce the systematic patterns in image observations are investigated. It is shown how, for flat ports, the use of a stochastic approach, consisting in radial weighting of image observations, improves the accuracy in object space up to 50%. Iterative look-up table corrections are instead adopted to reduce the evident systematic residual patterns in the case of dome ports.
MEASURING ARTIFICIAL REEFS USING A MULTI-CAMERA SYSTEM FOR UNMANNED UNDERWATER VEHICLES
Authors: Rofallski R. , Tholen C. , Helmholz P. , Parnum I. , Luhmann T.
Published: August 2020

Abstract. Artificial reefs provide an efficient way to improve marine life abundance in the oceans, including growth on the structure itself. Photogrammetric methods provide suitable tools to measure marine growth. This paper focusses on cubic reefs placed in Western Australia. The capturing platform featured a photogrammetric multi-sensor system for unmanned underwater vehicles attached to a low-cost vehicle BlueROV2. The multi-sensor system and its photogrammetric data captured was calibrated, adjusted and analyzed employing a structure-from-motion processing pipeline. Novel automated image masking techniques were developed and applied to the data to significantly reduce noise in the derived dense point clouds. Results show improvements of signal to noise ratio of more than 50 %, while maintaining a complete representation of the observed artificial reef.
Timing, drivers and impacts of the historic Masiere di Vedana rock avalanche (Belluno Dolomites, NE Italy)
Authors: Rossato Sandro , Ivy-Ochs Susan , Martin Silvana , Viganò Alfio , Vockenhuber Christof , Rigo Manuel , Monegato Giovanni , De Zorzi Marco , Surian Nicola , Campedel Paolo , Mozzi Paolo
Published: August 2020

Abstract. The “Masiere di Vedana” rock avalanche, located in the Belluno Dolomites (NE Italy) at the foot of Mt. Peron, is reinterpreted as historic on the base of archeological information and cosmogenic 36Cl exposure dates. The deposit is 9 km2 wide, has a volume of ∼170 Mm3 corresponding to a pre-detachment rock mass of ∼130 Mm3, and has a maximum runout distance of 6 km and an H∕L ratio of ∼0.2. Differential velocities of the rock avalanche moving radially over different topography and path material lead to the formation of specific landforms (tomas and compressional ridges). In the Mt. Peron crown the bedding is subvertical and includes carbonate lithologies from Lower Jurassic (Calcari Grigi Group) to Cretaceous (Maiolica) in age. The stratigraphic sequence is preserved in the deposit with the formations represented in the boulders becoming younger with distance from the source area. In the release area the bedding, the SSE-verging frontal thrust planes, the NW-verging backthrust planes, the NW–SE fracture planes, and the N–S Jurassic fault planes controlled the failure and enhanced the rock mass fragmentation. The present Mt. Peron crown still shows hundreds-of-metres-high rock prisms bounded by backwall trenches. Cosmogenic 36Cl exposure ages, mean 1.90±0.45 ka, indicate failure occurred between 340 BCE and 560 CE. Although abundant Roman remains were found in sites surrounding the rock avalanche deposit, none were found within the deposit, and this is consistent with a late Roman or early Middle Ages failure. Seismic and climatic conditions as landslide predisposing factors are discussed. Over the last few hundred years, earthquakes up to Mw=6.3, including that at 365 CE, have affected the Belluno area. Early in the first millennium, periods of climate worsening with increasing rainfall occurred in the NE Alps. The combination of climate and earthquakes induced progressive long-term damage to the rock until a critical threshold was reached and the Masiere di Vedana rock avalanche occurred.
A linear model to derive melt pond depth on Arctic sea ice from hyperspectral data
Authors: König Marcel , Oppelt Natascha
Published: August 2020

Abstract. Melt ponds are key elements in the energy balance of Arctic sea
ice. Observing their temporal evolution is crucial for understanding
melt processes and predicting sea ice evolution. Remote sensing is the
only technique that enables large-scale observations of Arctic sea
ice. However, monitoring melt pond deepening in this way is
challenging because most of the optical signal reflected by a pond is
defined by the scattering characteristics of the underlying
ice. Without knowing the influence of meltwater on the reflected
signal, the water depth cannot be determined. To solve the problem, we
simulated the way meltwater changes the reflected spectra of bare
ice. We developed a model based on the slope of the log-scaled remote
sensing reflectance at 710 nm as a function of depth that is
widely independent from the bottom albedo and accounts for the
influence of varying solar zenith angles. We validated the model using
49 in situ melt pond spectra and corresponding depths from shallow
ponds on dark and bright ice. Retrieved pond depths are accurate
(root mean square error, RMSE=2.81 cm; nRMSE=16 %) and
highly correlated with in situ measurements (r=0.89; p=4.34×10-17). The model further explains a large portion of the
variation in pond depth (R2=0.74). Our results indicate that
our model enables the accurate retrieval of pond depth on Arctic sea
ice from optical data under clear sky conditions without having to
consider pond bottom albedo. This technique is potentially
transferrable to hyperspectral remote sensors on unmanned aerial vehicles, aircraft and
satellites.
Alfabetizar letrando: possibilidades para uma cartografia porosa
Authors: Breda Thiara Vichiato , Straforini Rafael
Published: August 2020

Este artigo objetiva contribuir para o debate sobre o sentido do significante cartografia escolar que, ora fixa-se na defesa do processo de alfabetização, ora no de letramento, como se fossem processos incomunicáveis e totalizantes. Assumindo os fundamentos da Teoria do Discurso, nossa proposição aqui é a da articulação em detrimento da dicotomização desses conceitos, defendendo o sentido de alfabetizar letrando. Trata-se de uma proposta que parte da compreensão de que o processo de letramento vai além, e não contra o entendimento de alfabetização. Na bibliografia dominante, a alfabetização cartográfica é compreendida como um processo específico e imprescindível, que exige um trabalho metodológico e didático-pedagógico para se ensinar a lógica do sistema cartesiano do mapa, ao passo que o letramento estaria atrelado ao domínio e uso social das linguagens cartográficas. Defendemos aqui uma ação pedagógica sob a perspectiva do alfabetizar letrando, que desloca a ênfase habitual da localização espacial como centro do processo, criando condições para uma cartografia porosa que permita aos alunos se apropriarem da linguagem cartográfica também como práticas socioespaciais de significação.
Palavras-chave: Cartografia escolar, alfabetizar letrando, linguagem cartográfica, práticas socioespaciais de significação.
A territorialização da rede global extrativa do nióbio em Goiás, Brasil
Authors: Gonçalves Ricardo Junior de Assis Fernandes , Milanez Bruno
Published: August 2020

O objetivo da presente pesquisa é interpretar a territorialização da Rede Global Extrativa de nióbio em Goiás, Brasil. A metodologia conta com levantamento de dados secundários e informações qualitativas e quantitativas. A primeira parte da pesquisa apresenta resultados que abordam a mineração de nióbio no Brasil, com foco na caracterização desse metal, principais aplicações em diferentes setores produtivos, localização das maiores reservas e minas em operação. Destacam-se as principais empresas produtoras e suas estratégias corporativas, a evolução da produção de ferro-nióbio, mercado e preços. Na segunda parte, demonstra-se a participação da mineração, com base nos empreendimentos de nióbio, no processo de integração do território goiano nas redes globais extrativas. As considerações finais sintetizam os resultados centrais expostos nas seções anteriores e sublinham as possíveis contribuições da pesquisa no campo das investigações críticas sobre o modelo de mineração no Brasil.

Palavras-Chave: Mineração. Nióbio. Rede Global de Produção. Goiás.
Cura ut Valeas! Múltiplos usos e faces das máscaras em tempos de pandemia
Authors: Maia Rosemere Santos , Maia Carlos Eduardo Santos
Published: August 2020

A COVID19, pandemia que se alastra "oficialmente" pelo planeta desde janeiro do ano em curso, não só tem provocado vítimas como também evidenciado a necessidade de adoção de medidas de proteção por parte de diversos profissionais e da população em geral. No presente artigo, objetiva-se abordar o uso de máscaras em espaços públicos e privados de uso coletivo, onde tal equipamento se impõe como fundamental para proteção e contenção do coronavírus. Antes, porém, faz-se uma análise acerca do uso de máscara em outros espaços-tempos, enfocando-se alguns de seus significados e simbologias naqueles contextos sociais. Metodologicamente, o texto se baseia em pesquisa bibliográfica e documental de diversas fontes (sites, livros, revistas, reportagens, blogs). Nas conclusões, apresentam-se principalmente alguns questionamentos ao invés de proposituras fechadas e antecipadas, proposituras estas não condizentes com a prevalência de tantas incertezas.

Palavras-chave: COVID-19, Pandemia, Espaço Público, Espaço Privado de Uso Coletivo.
O desenvolvimento terrirorial rural no Brasil: uma análise a partir do debate paradigmático
Authors: Oliveira Neto Adolfo da Costa
Published: August 2020

O desenvolvimento territorial ganhou importância nos debates sobre o campo no Brasil nos anos 2000. Levado a cabo principalmente pelo governo federal e incentivado por organismos internacionais, como o Banco Mundial, FAO e BIRD, o desenvolvimento territorial passou a figurar como grande novidade nos trabalhaos acadêmicos, ações das empresas e políticas públicas. Este trabalho avalia a produção sobre o desenvolvimeno territorial a luz do debate paradigmático, mostrando como o Paradigma do Capitalismo Agrário e o Paradigma da Questão Agrária produzem interpretações diferentes sobre o tema. Como metodologia, fazemos uma revisão bibliográfica de dois autores que estão os que mais influênciam a produção brasileira, sendo cada um representante de um paradigma. O artigo se divide em três secções. Na primira, apresentamos o debate paradigmático. Na segunda, o desenvolvimento territorial a partir do Paradigma do capitalismo agrário. Na terceira, o desenvolimento territorial a partir do Paradigma da Questão Agrária. Nosso objetivo é contribuir para que pesquisadores dedicados a questão consigam ter uma nova chave de interpretação sobre o tema.
Palavras-chave: debate paradigmático; desenvolvimento territorial; paradigma do capitalismo agrário; paradigma da questão agrária; desenvolvimento.
Startup Company Valuation: The State of Art and Future Trends
Authors: Montani Damiano , Gervasio Daniele , Pulcini Andrea
Published: August 2020

The aim of this conceptual article is to present a systematic literature review about the most used and innovative startup valuation methods to define the state of art and future trends on this important topic.

Because of the particular features of early-stage companies, it is not easy to find an adequate method to assess their value. Traditional valuation methods are unsuitable for startups. Therefore, over time, academic literature and experienced investors created alternative and innovative valuation models. We analysed the main models, outlining the advantages and limits for each one.

The results of our analysis show that there is currently no "perfect" method to assess a startup’s value. Each model discussed has significant limits, and the possibilities for improvement are many. We are witnessing a gradual withdrawal from more arbitrary valuation models, and consciousness is growing towards the idea that to better assess startup’s value, it is necessary to consider three aspects: attention to future forecasts instead of past data, using probability to consider different scenarios, and understanding of and attention to the specific business model of the startup rather than data on comparable companies in the market. Currently, none of the discussed methods integrates these three features harmoniously.

We expect that in the near future, the academic literature will develop new valuation methods (or will perfect existing ones) that should consider the three characteristics mentioned previously. In this way, it would be possible to create a more suitable method to assess a startup's value, i.e., a method to reduce uncertainty and that better represents the startup’s value and makes startup company valuation more reliable.
Rebhan, Helga and Bayerische Staatsbibliothek (München). 2010. Die Wunder der Schöpfung – Handschriften der Bayerischen Staatsbibliothek aus dem islamischen Kulturkreis; The Wonders of Creation: Manuscripts of the Bavarian State Library from the Islamic w
Authors: Perho Irmeli
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Horstmann, Monika, Der Zusammenhalt der Welt. Religiöse Herrschaftslegitimation und Religionspolitik Mahārājā Savāī Jaisinghs (1700–1743).
Authors: Malinar Angelika
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Zu den Schreibungen des ägyptischen Wortes „cwH.t“ „Ei“
Authors: Bojowald Stefan
Published: August 2020

The following investigation is devoted to the different writings of the Egyptian word “cwH.t” “egg”. As it will turn out, they show considerable variability. To present a good overview, there are thirteen examples collected here.
Föderale Demokratie
Authors: Benz Arthur
Published: August 2020

In der vergleichenden Regierungslehre wird die „föderale Demokratie“ nicht als eigenständiger Typus betrachtet. Daher blieb auch das Verhältnis von Föderalismus und Demokratie weitgehend ungeklärt. Dieses Buch bestimmt dieses Verhältnis als ein Spannungsfeld. Demokratische Legitimität setzt die Autonomie der Regierenden, im Föderalismus erfordern Aufgabenverflechtungen koordiniertes Regieren. Im Vergleich verschiedener Formen föderaler Demokratie analysiert der Autor die Ursachen und Folgen dieser Spannungen. Er zeigt, welche institutionellen Bedingungen sich selbst verstärkende Dynamiken auslösen und welche es Akteuren ermöglichen, ihre Strategien anzupassen und zu lernen, mit Spannungen umzugehen. Ausgehend von seinem Begriff von föderaler Demokratie kritisiert er ein technokratisches Interdependenzmanagement und populistischen Ideen einer „Entflechtung“ und plädiert für demokratieverträgliche Formen der Koordination im Föderalismus.
Trading Books
Authors: Ebner-Zarl Astrid
Published: August 2020

This monograph offers a systematic overview of international book markets and looks at the structures behind the global flow of book content. The author combines detailed facts and numbers on the global business of books with fundamental knowledge of the book publishing industry and complements them with new empirical findings. She focuses especially on book fairs and their role in the industry, presenting her findings from field research conducted at Frankfurt Book Fair and Bologna Children’s Book Fair. The book also provides an outlook on the book industry in times of the Corona crisis. This overview will appeal to everybody who is interested in familiarising themselves with the book publishing industry, including from a global perspective and with regard to new (digital) trends and developments.
Intracavernous Internal Carotid Artery Aneurysm Presenting as Acute Diplopia: A Case Report
Authors: Brown Austin , Jolliff Health , Poe Douglas , Weinstock Michael
Published: August 2020

Introduction: Diplopia is an uncommon emergency department (ED) complaint representing only 0.1% of visits, but it has a large differential. One cause is a cranial nerve palsy, which may be from a benign or life-threatening process.

Case Report: A 69-year-old female presented to the ED with two days of diplopia and dizziness. The physical exam revealed a sixth cranial nerve palsy isolated to the left eye. Imaging demonstrated an intracavernous internal carotid artery aneurysm. The patient was treated with embolization by neurointerventional radiology.

Discussion: The evaluation of diplopia is initially divided into monocular, usually from a lens problem, or binocular, indicating an extraocular process. Microangiopathic disease is the most common cause of sixth nerve palsy; however, more serious etiologies may be present, such as an intracavernous internal carotid artery aneurysm, as in the patient described. Imaging modalities may include computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

Conclusion: Some causes of sixth nerve palsy are benign, while others will require more urgent attention, such as consideration of an intracavernous internal carotid artery aneurysm.
37-year-old Transgender Man with Fevers, Dysuria, and Sudden Decompensation
Authors: Fleming Emily , Gatz J. David
Published: August 2020

Introduction: Patients in the emergency department may experience sudden decompensation despite initially appearing stable.

Case Presentation: A 37-year-old transgender man presented to the emergency department (ED) with several months of fevers, myalgias, and weight loss. The patient acutely became febrile, tachycardic, and hypotensive after an initially reassuring assessment in the ED.

Discussion: This case takes the reader through the differential diagnosis and work-up of the decompensating patient initially presenting with subacute symptoms.
Euglycemic Diabetic Ketoacidosis Precipitated by SGLT-2 Inhibitor Use, Pericarditis, and Fasting: A Case Report
Authors: Mendelsohn Rebecca , Taveras Anabelle , Mazer Benjamin , Clayton Lisa
Published: August 2020

Introduction: Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a potentially life-threatening complication of diabetes mellitus. Less prevalent is euglycemic DKA (eDKA)—DKA with serum glucose less than 200 mg/dL; however, it is increasing in frequency with the introduction of sodium glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors for treatment of type 2 diabetes.

Case Report: We report a case of SGLT-2 inhibitor-associated eDKA presenting with concurrent acute pericarditis.

Discussion: Our case suggests that the cause of eDKA can be multifactorial when decreased oral intake occurs in the setting of an acute cause of physiologic stress.

Conclusion: Prompt recognition of eDKA in the emergency department may allow earlier diagnosis and treatment directed at one or more of its underlying causes.
Pneumocephalus and Facial Droop on an Airplane:  A Case Report
Authors: Sanjeevan-Cabeza Irina , Oakland Morgan
Published: August 2020

Introduction: Pneumocephalus (PNC) is most commonly associated with trauma or intracranial surgery, less commonly secondary to an infectious source, and is rarely caused by barotrauma.

Case report: A 32-year-old woman presented to the emergency department with complaint of resolved left-sided facial droop and a lingering paresthesia of her left upper extremity after a cross-country flight. Computed tomography demonstrated several foci of air in the subdural space consistent with PNC.

Conclusion: For PNC to occur there must be a persistent negative intracranial pressure gradient, with or without an extracranial pressure change. In this case the pressure change occurred due to cabin pressure.
An Unusual Case Report of COVID-19 Presenting with Meningitis Symptoms and Shingles
Authors: Packwood Rebecca , Galletta Gayle , Tennyson Joseph
Published: August 2020

Introduction: As severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spreads across the globe, physicians face the challenges of a contagious pandemic including which patients to isolate, how to conserve personal protective equipment, and who to test. The current protocol at our hospital is to place anyone with new cough, dyspnea, or fever into airborne and contact precautions and consider them for testing. Unfortunately, the symptomatic presentations of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are proving more variable than previously thought.

Case Report: Our case of COVID-19 presented with headache and then progressed to a meningitis-like illness with co-existing shingles rash.

Conclusion: COVID-19 can have a variety of initial presentations that are not the classic respiratory symptoms and fever. These presenting symptoms of COVID-19 can include a meningitis-like illness, as our case report indicates. The wide variety of presentations of COVID-19 may warrant widespread testing to identify cases, protect healthcare workers, and prevent the spread of this pandemic.
Point-of-care Ultrasound Identification of Iliopsoas Abscess in Emergency Department: A Case Report
Authors: Al-Sadhan Nehal , Liebmann Ottto , Dwyer Kristin
Published: August 2020

Introduction: The iliopsoas muscle is a rare place for an abscess to collect. While these abscesses can have high mortality, they are often misdiagnosed. The use of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) can aid in earlier diagnosis.

Case Report: A 45-year-old male presented to the emergency department (ED) with severe lower back pain. The pain radiated to both of his legs and was associated with fever, weight loss, and malaise. The differential diagnosis for this patient was broad. A POCUS was performed at the bedside and revealed bilateral iliopsoas abscesses. This finding was then confirmed by computed tomography.

Conclusion: In this case report we will discuss how to identify an iliopsoas abscess using POCUS in ED patients, and the utility of POCUS to facilitate an expedited diagnosis.
Spontaneous Isolated Celiac Artery Dissection: A Case Report
Authors: Freeman Clifford , Lacy Aaron , Miner Aubrey , Rogers Devin , Smith Austin , Shah Karan
Published: August 2020

Introduction: Abdominal pain is a common chief complaint that can represent a wide breadth of diagnoses, ranging from benign to life-threatening. As our diagnostic tools become more sophisticated, we are able to better identify more causes of potentially life-threatening diseases. One such disease that is relatively unfamiliar to clinicians is spontaneous isolated celiac artery dissection (SICAD).

Case Report: We describe a case of a 46-year-old man who presented to our emergency department with a chief complaint of abdominal pain and was found to have a SICAD and was successfully treated with anticoagulation, antihypertensives, and observation.

Conclusion: It is important for emergency physicians to keep this potentially life-threatening condition in mind and to know the appropriate first steps once identified.
Medial Pontomedullary Stroke Mimicking Severe Bell’s Palsy: A Case Report
Authors: Boodale Benjamin , Amin Manish , Sabetian Katayoun , Quesada Daniel , Torrico Tyler
Published: August 2020

Introduction: Patients with acute unilateral upper and lower facial palsy frequently present to the emergency department fearing they have had a stroke, but many cases are benign Bell’s palsy.

Case Report: We present a rare case of a medial pontomedullary junction stroke causing upper and lower hemifacial paralysis associated with severe dysphagia and contralateral face and arm numbness.

Conclusion: Although rare, pontine infarct must be considered in patients who present with both upper and lower facial weakness. Unusual neurologic symptoms (namely diplopia, vertigo, or dysphagia) and signs (namely gaze palsy, nystagmus, or contralateral motor or sensory deficits) should prompt evaluation for stroke.
A Case Report of Acute Transverse Myelitis Following Novel Coronavirus Infection
Authors: Sarma Deesha , Bilello Leslie
Published: August 2020

Introduction: During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, emergency providers are not only seeing an increasing number of patients with COVID-19 infections, but also associated complications and sequelae of this viral illness. Case Report: We present the case of a 28-year-old female patient who presented after a confirmed COVID-19 infection with lower back pain, bilateral symmetric upper and lower extremity numbness, and urinary retention. The patient was diagnosed with acute transverse myelitis. She required intravenous corticosteroids and plasma exchange with significant improvement in symptoms and minimal residual effects. Conclusion: This case illustrates the importance of prompt recognition and treatment of sequelae of COVID-19 infections.
A Case Report on Paget-Schroetter Syndrome Presenting as Acute Localized Rhabdomyolysis
Authors: Lee Jonathan , Kurzweil Ami , Lahham Shadi
Published: August 2020

Introduction: The life- or limb-threatening differential diagnosis for upper extremity swelling can include deep vein thrombosis (DVT), infectious processes, and compartment syndrome. Chronic anatomic abnormalities such as axillary vein stenosis are rarely a consideration in the emergency department.

Case Report: We present a 26-year-old female with history of Chiari type 1 malformation who presented with acute left arm swelling. Initial workup, including point-of-care ultrasound, revealed the presence of significant soft tissue swelling without evidence of DVT.

Conclusion: Further workup revealed an early, localized rhabdomyolysis secondary to axillary vein stenosis or venous thoracic outlet syndrome, also known as Paget-Schroetter syndrome.
A Case Report: Co-presenting COVID-19 Infection and Acute Drug Intoxication
Authors: Riekena Jeremy , Lee Irene , Lui Anita , Mempin Marion-Vincent
Published: August 2020

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has spread throughout the world since late 2019. Symptoms appear after a two-week incubation period and commonly include fever, cough, myalgia or fatigue, and shortness of breath.

Case Report: A 32-year-old male with a history of opiate abuse presented to the emergency department with altered mental status. The patient was lethargic and hypoxic with improvement from naloxone. Official chest radiograph was read as normal; however, the treating clinicians noted bilateral interstitial opacities, raising concern for underlying infectious etiology. Opiates and cocaine were positive on drug screen, and an arterial blood gas on room air showed hypoxemia with respiratory acidosis. The patient was intubated during the treatment course due to persistent hypoxemia and for airway protection after resuscitation. The COVID-19 test was positive on admission, and later computed tomography showed ground-glass opacities. The patient was extubated and discharged after one week on the ventilator.

Conclusion: When screening patients at and during evaluation, physicans should consider a broad differential as patients with atypical presentations may be overlooked as candidates for COVID-19 testing. As screening and evaluation protocols evolve, we emphasize maintaining a high index of suspicion for COVID-19 in patients with atypical symptoms or presenting with other chief complaints in order to avoid spreading the disease.
36-year-old Male with Syncope
Authors: King Samantha , Spangler Ryan , Dezman Zachary , Bontempo Laura
Published: August 2020

Case Presentation: A 36-year-old incarcerated male presented to the emergency department (ED) after an episode concerning for syncope. The patient had nystagmus and ataxia on initial examination.

Discussion: There is a broad differential diagnosis for syncope, and for patients presenting to the ED we tend to focus on cardiogenic and neurologic causes. This case takes the reader through the differential diagnosis and systemic work-up of a patient presenting to the ED with syncope.
A Case Report of Cake Frosting as a Source of Copper Toxicity in a Pediatric Patient
Authors: Tsao Hoi See , Allister Lauren , Chiba Takuyo , Barkley Jonathan , Goldman Rose
Published: August 2020

Introduction: Copper is an uncommon source of metal toxicity in children that requires a high index of suspicion for diagnosis.

Case Report: We describe the unique presentation of a 12-month-old girl who developed acute onset of vomiting and diarrhea after ingestion of a copper-contaminated birthday cake.

Conclusion: This case highlights the presentation, evaluation, and management of the rare pediatric patient who presents with copper poisoning. This case also illuminates the public health implications of potential metal poisoning when using non-edible decorative products in homemade and commercially prepared baked goods.
COVID-19 and Pulmonary Emboli: A Case Series and Literature Review
Authors: Greenan-Barrett James , Perera Adrian
Published: August 2020

Introduction: There is recent evidence that coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection results in a prothrombotic state that may increase the risk of venous thromboembolism. Both COVID-19 infection and pulmonary emboli can present with dyspnoea, tachypnoea, hypoxaemia and an elevated D-dimer. Identifying a pulmonary embolus in a patient with COVID-19 and differentiating it from the typical clinical and biochemical features of COVID-19 is challenging.

Case Reports: We report four cases, and reviewed two further cases in the literature, of a pulmonary embolus in patients who presented to the emergency department with COVID-19 and no other risk factor for a pulmonary embolus.

Conclusion: We identified a series of atypical features that should raise suspicion for a pulmonary embolus: pleuritic chest pain; haemoptysis; atrial fibrillation; tachycardia; hypotension; late onset deterioration; evidence of right heart strain; or a disproportionally elevated D-dimer in comparison to ferritin.
The Evaluation of Factors Affecting Hemodynamic Variability in Mechanically-Ventilated Patients After Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Bilehjani Eissa , Nader Nader , Farzin Haleh , Haghighate Azari Maryam , Fakhari Solmaz
Published: August 2020

Background: Optimizing cardiac preload is usually the first step in patients with unstable hemodynamic. However, it should be remembered that an unnecessary volume expansion may exacerbate the hemodynamic. In mechanically ventilated patients, the ventilatory induced hemodynamic variations (VIHV) can be used to predict the fluid requirement. These variations (called dynamic indices of cardiac filling pressure), are superior to static indices (central venous and pulmonary artery occlusion pressure) in diagnosing any volume requirement. We theorized that some conditions other than hypovolemia might affect these hemodynamic variations. Objectives: The current study aimed to discover these conditions in adult patients admitted to post-cardiac surgery ICU. Methods: This antegrade cross-sectional study was conducted on 304 adult patients who were admitted to ICU after elective cardiac surgery in a teaching hospital (Tabriz-Iran). During the first 3 hours of the admission, the systolic (ΔSBP), diastolic (ΔDBP), mean (ΔMAP), and arterial blood pulse pressures (ΔPP) were invasively monitored and calculated in percent value. Because of the return of spontaneous breathing in most of the patients, the calculations were done only during the first 3-hour. All patients with spontaneous breathing, irregular cardiac rhythm, or re-admission to OR in this period were excluded from the study. We recorded demographic and surgical characteristics, perioperative hemodynamic and echocardiographic, and complications data and surveyed the correlation between VIHV and perioperative data. Results: Two hundred and ninety two patients met the inclusion criteria. Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) was the most common surgery (64.4 %). Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) was used in 95.55% of the surgeries. In the first 24-hour, 51 patients required re-operation because of sternum closure, bleeding control, cardiac tamponade, and coronary artery revascularization. Mortality and morbidity occurred in 2 (0.68%) and 50 (17.12%) patients, respectively. Among VIHVs, the ΔPP had the most significant value. Thus, mean ΔPP was calculated and the correlation between its severity (≤ 20% vs. > 20%) and other values surveyed. It was high in patients with cardiac dysfunction and tamponade (P value < 0.001). No significant correlation was found between mean ΔPP severity and hemorrhage rate, fluid balance, need to vasoactive agents, blood products, or bleeding control, redo CABG or sternum closure surgery, time to tracheal extubation, ICU stay, and postoperative complications. Patients with closed sternum were the same as those with the unclosed sternum. Conclusions: The ΔPP was the most sensitive VIHV parameter. Cardiac dysfunction and tamponade increased ΔPP. Unclosed sternum did not affect its value. ΔPP value did not affect postoperative complications rate, time to tracheal extubation, or ICU stay.
Response Surface Design for Removal of Lead by Different Lactic Acid Bacteria
Authors: Goudarzi Leila , Kasra Kermanshahi Rouha , Jahed Khaniki Gholamreza
Published: August 2020

Background: Toxic heavy metals, such as lead, are widely used in industry and may cause serious health problems and ecological hazards for living organisms. Objectives: The current study aimed to investigate the removal efficiency of lead by Lactobacillus strains using a methodological approach. Methods: After selecting the bacteria with the maximum metals removal ability, experiments were conducted according to (i) the Plackett-Burman design (Minitab18 program) to screen several significant process factors and (ii) Central Composite Design (Design-Expert 11.1.2.0 program) to find out the optimum process conditions for the maximum capacity of metal removal efficiency. Results: The optimum pH, metal, and bacterial concentration were 6.76, 391 mg.L-1, and 4.60 g.L-1 for lead removal ability of L. acidophilus ATCC4356. A quadratic model was developed to correlate the variables with removal efficiency. According to the results, this model was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Conclusions: The experimental removal efficiencies at the optimum condition for lead by L. acidophilus ATCC4356 (73.9%) were consistent with the predicted values. Consequently, due to their appreciate efficiency and the lower cost of the lead removal ability, these two bacteria may be a candidate as good biosorbents. The results also confirmed that the Response Surface Methodology is an appropriate methodology for modeling of removal efficiency.
Effects of Endurance Training, Hyaluronic Acid and Stem Cell Treatments on the Quadriceps Muscle Fiber Count: Study on the Knee Osteoarthritis Rats
Authors: Tajik Mahboubeh , Azarbayjani Mohammad-Ali , Peeri Maghsoud , Farzanegi Parvin
Published: August 2020

Background: Osteoarthritis can impair muscle structure and function. Numerous methods may be helpful for its treatment, i.e., hyaluronic acid, cell therapy, and physical training. Objectives: The present study investigated the independent and combined effect of these three interventions on the quadriceps muscle fiber count in the rat model of knee osteoarthritis. Methods: Fifty four rats were randomly divided into groups, including; healthy-control, osteoarthritis- control, osteoarthritis-training, osteoarthritis-stem cell, osteoarthritis-hyaluronic acid, osteoarthritis-hyaluronic-stem cell, osteoarthritis-stem cell-training, osteoarthritis-hyaluronic acid-training, and osteoarthritis-stem cell-hyaluronic acid-training. The exercise training program consisted of 30 minutes of running on the treadmill with no slope at a speed of 16 m/min for the first week. Then, the duration progressively reached 50 minutes in the eighth week. Stem cells were extracted from bone marrow and injected into the injured joint. Hyaluronic acid was injected into the injured joint in three separate weeks and once a week. All animals were anesthetized 48 hours after the last training session and injections. The samples were removed and sent to the laboratory. All signiﬁcant levels were considered as P < 0.05. Results: Osteoarthritis significantly decreased muscle fibers compared to healthy animals. Aerobic training, stem cell therapy, hyaluronic acid, the interaction of training and stem cell, and the interaction of training, stem cell therapy, and hyaluronic acid significantly increased muscle fiber count. Conclusions: Concurrent use of aerobic training, stem cell, and hyaluronic acid treatments had more effect than each intervention alone on enhancing the muscle fiber count in the rat model of knee osteoarthritis.
Youth cyber dating abuse: A meta-analysis of risk and protective factors
Authors: Caridade Sónia Maria Martins , Braga Teresa
Published: August 2020

Cyber Dating Abuse (CDA) has been identified as a prevalent and negative experience for youth, which highlights the need to identify the factors associated with the occurrence of this phenomenon. Thus, this meta-analysis aims to determine the factors associated with youth CDA perpetration and victimization, identifying which of the factors present the strongest risk and protective effects. We identified 16 studies and 17 independent samples, including a total sample of 12,760 adolescents and young adults. Results showed that individual and intimate relation factors were related to both CDA perpetration and victimization, and peer factors were significantly associated with CDA perpetration; individual sociodemographic factors were unrelated to CDA. Findings from this meta-analysis provide valuable evidence to develop CDA prevention and intervention strategies.
A third-person perspective on phubbing: Observing smartphone-induced social exclusion generates negative affect, stress, and derogatory attitudes
Authors: Nuñez Tania Roxana , Radtke Theda , Eimler Sabrina Cornelia
Published: August 2020

Phubbing (phone-snubbing) has become a pervasive public communication phenomenon which adversely affects its targets and sources. Yet, research on phubbing is not built on a consistent theoretical basis and examinations on its effects on the public are still missing. This study aimed at addressing these research gaps by conceptualizing the behavior as an act of smartphone-induced social exclusion and investigating whether phubbing impacts its observers. In a between-subject experiment, N = 160 participants observed photos of dyadic interpersonal interactions in different everyday contexts which depicted one-sided, reciprocal, or no phubbing. Results revealed that observers of phubbing experienced negative affect and stress. Observers also derogated individuals who used their smartphones in social interactions regarding their warmth and competence; these effects were mediated by observers’ perceived relationship quality between the observed persons. Affective and cognitive outcomes emerged independently of observers’ gender. As these findings are in line with the effects and processes outlined in the temporal need-threat model of ostracism (i.e., social exclusion), they support the assumptions that phubbing is a form of smartphone-induced social exclusion and that its negative effects go beyond social interactions in which the behavior occurs. With this, the present study expands research regarding a modern communication phenomenon by strengthening its theoretical foundation and arriving at important theoretical and practical implications concerning targets, sources, and observers of phubbing.