bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Study of Rock Fragmentation Process and Acoustic Emission by FDEM Based on Heterogeneous Model
Authors: Liu Qi , Deng Penghai
Published: July 2020

Rock has the characteristics of natural heterogeneity and discontinuity. Its failure phenomenon induced by external force involves complex processes, including the microcrack initiation, propagation, coalescence, and the macrocrack formation. In this study, the Weibull random distribution based on the rock microstructure characteristics is introduced into the combined finite-discrete element method (FDEM) to establish the heterogeneous rock model, and the mechanical response and damage evolution of rock samples in uniaxial compression test are simulated. The results show that FDEM simulation with loaded heterogeneous rock model can reflect the progressive development of rock damage, fracture, and acoustic emission (AE) activity in real rock well. Meanwhile, the statistical analysis indicates that the number and energy evolution of AE events with different fracture modes in the model are consistent with the macroscopic failure mode of rock. The change of b-value also agrees with the increasing trend of high-energy events in the loading process. This method provides a new tool for the analysis of rock damage and fracture evolution.
Quantitative Analysis of the Proteome and the Succinylome in the Thyroid Tissue of High-Fat Diet-Induced Hypothyroxinemia in Rats
Authors: Hu Baoxiang , Zhao Meng , Luo Dandan , Yu Chunxiao , Shao Shanshan , Zhao Lifang , Yang Yashuang , Zhang Xiaohan , Zhao Jiajun , Gao Ling
Published: July 2020

Hypothyroidism is a common disease, and its molecular mechanism still needs further investigation. Lysine succinylation is found to be involved in various metabolic processes associated with hypothyroidism. We performed quantitative analysis on lysine succinylome in thyroids of rats with hypothyroxinemia, which was induced through the administration of a high-fat diet. Overall, 129 differentially expressed proteins were quantified. Downregulated proteins were enriched in the thyroid hormone synthesis and thyroid hormone signaling pathways and were mainly localized in the mitochondria. In addition, 172 lysine succinylation sites on 104 proteins were obviously changed. Decreased succinylated proteins were involved in diverse metabolic pathways and were primarily localized in mitochondria. Finally, the mitochondrial oxygen consumption rates of human normal thyroid epithelial cells were measured to further verify the role of lysine succinylation. The mitochondrial oxygen consumption rates were markedly blunted in the cells treated with palmitic acid (all p<0.05), and the changes were reversed when the cells were treated with palmitic acid and desuccinylase inhibitor together (all p<0.05). Thus, we theorize that the thyroid differentially expressed proteins and changed succinylation levels played potential roles in the mitochondria-mediated energy metabolism in the high-fat diet-induced hypothyroxinemia rat model.
DHX36, BAX, and ARPC1B May Be Critical for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Tuberculosis
Authors: Zhang Yunli , Li Yanming , Li Hongling , Liu Qingxia , Wang Wei , Jian Zijuan , Liu Wenen
Published: July 2020

Background. Tuberculosis (TB) is usually caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which has the highest mortality rate among infectious diseases. This study is designed to identify the key genes affecting the diagnosis and treatment of TB. Methods. GSE54992, which included 39 peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) samples, was extracted from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. After the samples were classified into type and time groups by limma package, the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were analyzed using the Analysis of Variance. Using pheatmap package, hierarchical cluster analysis was performed for the DEGs. Then, the key modules correlated with TB were selected using the WGCNA package. Finally, functional and pathway enrichment analyses were carried out using clusterProfiler package. Results. The DEGs in subclusters 3, 6, 7, and 8 were chosen for further analyses. Based on WGCNA analysis, blue and green modules in type group and pink module in time group were selected as key modules. From the key modules, 9 (including BAX and ARPC1B) hub genes in type group and 6 (including DHX36) hub genes in time group were screened. Through pathway enrichment analysis, the TNF signaling pathway was enriched for the green module. Conclusion. DHX36, BAX, and ARPC1B might be key genes acting in the mechanisms of TB. Besides, the TNF signaling pathway might also be critical for the diagnosis and therapy of the disease.
Horizontal-Vertical-Rocking Coupled Response Analysis of Vertical Seismic Isolated Structure under Near-Fault Earthquakes
Authors: Liu Dewen , Zhang Yafei , Fang Sitong , Liu Yang
Published: July 2020

For vertical isolated structures with excessive vertical eccentricity for mass and vertical stiffness, horizontal-vertical-rocking response needs to be better understood for vertical isolated structures located in near-fault areas, where long-period velocity pulse can be produced. In this study, a seismic isolation system including quasizero stiffness (QZS) and vertical damper (VD) is used to control near-fault (NF) vertical earthquakes. The responses of horizontal-vertical-rocking coupling base-isolated structure including quasizero stiffness (QZS) and vertical damper (VD) subjected to NF horizontal and vertical ground motions are investigated. Nonlinear dynamic analyses are conducted to study the effects of essential parameters such as isolation system eccentricity, static equilibrium position, vertical isolation period, and vertical damping ratio on seismic responses of vertical isolated structure. It is found that increasing vertical period and damping ratio causes the vertical isolated structures to behave well in reducing rocking responses of structure. The effect of horizontal-vertical-rocking coupling on vertical seismic isolation efficiency is insignificant. The vertical seismic isolation remains effective as compared to the system supported on rubber bearings. The vertical damping can significantly control the vertical displacement and rocking moment.
Andrographolide Exerts Antihyperglycemic Effect through Strengthening Intestinal Barrier Function and Increasing Microbial Composition of Akkermansia muciniphila
Authors: Su Hongming , Mo Jianling , Ni Jingdan , Ke Huihui , Bao Tao , Xie Jiahong , Xu Yang , Xie Lianghua , Chen Wei
Published: July 2020

Accumulating evidence indicates that type 2 diabetes (T2D) is associated with intestinal barrier dysfunction and dysbiosis, implying the potential targets for T2D therapeutics. Andrographolide was reported to have several beneficial effects on diabetes and its associated complications. However, the protective role of andrographolide, as well as its underlying mechanism against T2D, remains elusive. Herein, we reported that andrographolide enhanced intestinal barrier integrity in LPS-induced Caco-2 cells as indicated by the improvement of cell monolayer barrier permeability and upregulation of tight junction protein expression. In addition, andrographolide alleviated LPS-induced oxidative stress by preventing ROS and superoxide anion radical overproduction and reversing glutathione depletion. In line with the in vitro results, andrographolide reduced metabolic endotoxemia and strengthened gut barrier integrity in db/db diabetic mice. We also found that andrographolide appeared to ameliorate glucose intolerance and insulin resistance and attenuated diabetes-associated redox disturbance and inflammation. Furthermore, our results indicated that andrographolide modified gut microbiota composition as indicated by elevated Bacteroidetes/Firmicutes ratio, enriched microbial species of Akkermansia muciniphila, and increased SCFAs level. Taken together, this study demonstrated that andrographolide exerted a glucose-lowering effect through strengthening intestinal barrier function and increasing the microbial species of A. muciniphila, which illuminates a plausible approach to prevent T2D by regulating gut barrier integrity and shaping intestinal microbiota composition.
Risk Assessment of Fishing Trawl Activities to Subsea Pipelines of Sabah and Labuan Waters
Authors: Ahmad Fuad Ahmad Faizal , Said Mohd Hafizi , Samo Khalid , Rahman Mohd Asamudin A. , Mohd Mohd Hairil , Zainol Ismail
Published: July 2020

Introduction. Trawling is a method of catching fish in a large volume where fish nets are pulled through water using one or two boats. Bottom trawling is where the nets are pulled over on the seabed. The gear of the bottom trawling would impact the exposed subsea pipeline, on the seabed. Subsea pipelines transport crude oil and gas from the offshore platform to shore facility. This study assesses the risk of fish trawling activities to the subsea pipelines at Sabah and Labuan offshore. The specification of trawl equipment used by local trawlers in Sabah was determined by the on-site survey. The frequency of a fish trawler crossing over the pipelines was calculated based interview on operation and site survey. The calculation of the pull-over load of the otter board was calculated using the DNVGL algorithm. The severity and frequency index of the risk matrix was developed based on literature review. Results showed that the pull-over load of the otter board would not damage the pipelines. The risk posed by the fish trawler activity to the pipelines is low and moderate.
Location Design of Electrification Road in Transportation Networks for On-Way Charging
Authors: Qiu Yue , Du Yuchuan , Yu Shanchuan , Jiang Shengchuan
Published: July 2020

Electric vehicles tend to be a great mobility option for the potential benefits in energy consumption and emission reduction. On-way charging (OWC) has been recognized to be a promising solution to extend driving range for electric vehicles. Location of the electrification road (ER) is a critical issue for future urban traffic management to accommodate the new mobility option. This paper proposes a mathematical program with equilibrium constraint (MPEC) approach to solve this problem, which minimizes the total travel time with a limited construction budget. To describe the drivers’ routing choice, a path-constrained network equilibrium model is proposed to minimize their travel time and prevent running out of charge. We develop a modified active set algorithm to solve the MPEC model. Numerical experiments are presented to demonstrate the performance of the model and the solution algorithm and analyze the impact of charging efficiency, battery size, and comfortable range.
Cynanchum paniculatum and Its Major Active Constituents for Inflammatory‐Related Diseases: A Review of Traditional Use, Multiple Pathway Modulations, and Clinical Applications
Authors: Chen Jing-xian , Cheng Chien-shan , Chen Jie , Lv Ling-ling , Chen Zi-jie , Chen Chuan , Zheng Lan
Published: July 2020

Cynanchum paniculatum Radix, known as Xuchangqing in Chinese, is commonly prescribed in Chinese Medicine (CM) for the treatment of various inflammatory diseases. The anti‐inflammatory property of Cynanchum paniculatum can be traced from its wind‐damp removing, collaterals’ obstruction relieving, and toxins counteracting effects as folk medicine in CM. This paper systematically reviewed the research advancement of the pharmacological effects of Cynanchum paniculatum among a variety of human diseases, including diseases of the respiratory, circulatory, digestive, urogenital, hematopoietic, endocrine and metabolomic, neurological, skeletal, and rheumatological systems and malignant diseases. This review aims to link the long history of clinical applications of Cynanchum paniculatum in CM with recent biomedical investigations. The major bioactive chemical compositions of Cynanchum paniculatum and their associated action mechanism unveiled by biomedical investigations as well as the present clinical applications and future perspectives are discussed. The major focuses of this review are on the diverse mechanisms of Cynanchum paniculatum and the role of its active components in inflammatory diseases.
Relationship between Serum Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Levels and Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy and Other Biomarkers
Authors: Abu-Yaghi Nakhleh E. , Abu Tarboush Nafez M. , Abojaradeh Ala M. , Al-Akily Amal S. , Abdo Esra’a M. , Emoush Laith O.
Published: July 2020

Aim. This study aims to measure serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels in a sample of Jordanian patients and to determine their relationship with the different stages of diabetic retinopathy. It also explores the correlation between VEGF concentrations and different biochemical and demographic findings.Materials and Methods. A total of 167 adults participated in the study. Participants were divided into two main categories: patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) type 2 without diabetic retinopathy (DR) (N = 62) and patients with DM type 2 affected by DR (N = 105). DR patients were further subclassified into nonproliferative (N = 41) and proliferative (N = 64). Basic laboratory tests were measured to correlate with VEGF levels. Irisin, a hormone linked to diabetic retinopathy was also measured and correlated with VEGF.Results. Serum VEGF was found to positively correlate with the severity of diabetic retinopathy. The means of VEGF serum concentrations were 60 pg/mL for controls, 133 pg/mL for nonproliferative DR patients, and 229 pg/mL for proliferative DR patients. We found a significant positive correlation with glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and a significant negative correlation with high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels, age, and irisin.Conclusion. In this cohort of Jordanian diabetics, serum VEGF concentrations strongly correlated with the presence and stages of diabetic retinopathy, suggesting it as an appropriate indicator for diabetic retinopathy early detection and management in this society. VEGF levels also significantly correlated with HbA1c, HDL, and irisin levels. Further studies are encouraged to explore these relationships in other ethnic groups and with different diabetic complications.
Predicting Bank Operational Efficiency Using Machine Learning Algorithm: Comparative Study of Decision Tree, Random Forest, and Neural Networks
Authors: Appiahene Peter , Missah Yaw Marfo , Najim Ussiph
Published: July 2020

The financial crisis that hit Ghana from 2015 to 2018 has raised various issues with respect to the efficiency of banks and the safety of depositors’ in the banking industry. As part of measures to improve the banking sector and also restore customers’ confidence, efficiency and performance analysis in the banking industry has become a hot issue. This is because stakeholders have to detect the underlying causes of inefficiencies within the banking industry. Nonparametric methods such as Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) have been suggested in the literature as a good measure of banks’ efficiency and performance. Machine learning algorithms have also been viewed as a good tool to estimate various nonparametric and nonlinear problems. This paper presents a combined DEA with three machine learning approaches in evaluating bank efficiency and performance using 444 Ghanaian bank branches, Decision Making Units (DMUs). The results were compared with the corresponding efficiency ratings obtained from the DEA. Finally, the prediction accuracies of the three machine learning algorithm models were compared. The results suggested that the decision tree (DT) and its C5.0 algorithm provided the best predictive model. It had 100% accuracy in predicting the 134 holdout sample dataset (30% banks) and a P value of 0.00. The DT was followed closely by random forest algorithm with a predictive accuracy of 98.5% and a P value of 0.00 and finally the neural network (86.6% accuracy) with a P value 0.66. The study concluded that banks in Ghana can use the result of this study to predict their respective efficiencies. All experiments were performed within a simulation environment and conducted in R studio using R codes.
Denosumab-Induced Hypocalcemia after Billroth II Gastric Bypass Surgery
Authors: Schmucker Abigail M. , Green Dina E. , Montemuro Philip M.
Published: July 2020

Hypocalcemia is a known risk following bariatric surgery and can contribute to the development of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is commonly treated with denosumab, though denosumab can exacerbate underlying abnormalities in calcium homeostasis. We present the case of a 59-year-old female with severe hypocalcemia who had been treated with denosumab for osteoporosis three months before and had Billroth II gastric bypass surgery 15 years before, for bariatric purposes. Intravenous calcium supplementation was used to correct the initial electrolyte abnormality, and the patient was able to maintain appropriate calcium levels on high doses of oral calcium before discharge. Denosumab-induced hypocalcemia has been previously reported in patients with predisposing conditions including chronic kidney disease, primary sclerosing cholangitis, Crohn’s disease, and a history of sleeve gastrectomy for marginal gastric ulcers. A few cases of hypocalcemia have been reported in patients with a history of bariatric surgery secondary to vitamin D deficiency, but this report is unique in demonstrating denosumab-induced hypocalcemia after bariatric surgery with normal vitamin D levels, suggesting a primary malabsorption of calcium. The risk of severe hypocalcemia should be considered before initiating denosumab to treat osteoporosis in patients with a history of bariatric surgery. If denosumab is initiated, serum calcium levels should be closely monitored, and patients should be educated about the importance of adherence to calcium supplementation.
Torsades De Pointes Electrical Storm Induced by H1N1 in a Patient with KCNH2 Variant of Unknown Significance
Authors: Khiatah Bashar , Dukes Jonathan , Desai Christina , Frugoli Amanda
Published: July 2020

This report describes a case of an electrical storm of Torsades De Pointes in a structurally normal heart, following an H1N1 infection in the presence of a genetic variant of unknown significance. The patient was successfully treated with isoproterenol. This case highlights the dilemma of evaluating novel genetic testing results in a clinical setting.
Accelerated Failure Time Model to Explore the Perception Response Times of Drivers in Simulated Car-Following Scenarios
Authors: Guo Yingshi , Zhang Zhi , Yuan Wei , Wang Chang , Wu Fuwei , Liu Zhuofan
Published: July 2020

In the development of effective rear-end collision alarm systems, understanding the factors that influence the perception response times (PRT) of drivers is important for the design of a reasonable lead time for the warning (or intervention) of likely collisions. Previous studies have proposed different approaches for examining the impact of situational or individual factors on the PRT of drivers. However, unobserved heterogeneity has not been considered and neither has a duration-modeling approach been used, resulting in a lack of accurate estimation. The purpose of the present study was to explore the effect of the driving situation and individual differences on the PRT of drivers while also considering unobserved heterogeneity. A total of 101 participants were exposed to different levels of secondarily cognitive load and situational urgency in simulated d scenarios. Several accelerated failure time (AFT) duration models, both with and without heterogeneity, were developed to model the PRT of drivers, while factors related to driving situation and individual differences were incorporated. The results indicate that influential factors include age, working memory capacity (WMC), cognitive load, and initial time headway exerted significant effects on the PRT of drivers. The hazard rate changed by 14.4%, 22.6%, and 7.5% when age, cognitive load, and initial time headway changed by one unit, respectively. Furthermore, the hazard rate decreases by more than 20% for individuals with higher WMC compared with baseline individuals. These results suggest that the AFT model that considers unobserved heterogeneity can provide a more accurate estimation of the PRT compared to other duration models. These findings can be expected to provide a further understanding of drivers’ braking behaviors, which will contribute to the development of advanced driving assistant systems as well as safety assessments of in-vehicle information and communication technologies.
Analysis of Transcriptomic Similarity between Osteosarcoma Cell Lines and Primary Tumors
Authors: Batchu Sai , Gold Justin Lee
Published: July 2020

Background: Osteosarcoma (OS) cell lines are commonly used to mimic tumors for in vitro experiments. The present study explores the resemblance of OS cell lines to OS primary tumors in regard to gene expression. Methods: Transcriptomic data were retrieved from published data sets for 18 primary tumor samples and 13 commonly used OS cell lines. Tumor purity was accounted for when correlating tumor and cell line gene expression. Differentially expressed genes between tumors and cell lines were discovered and gene ontology analysis was performed. Results: Certain commonly used cell lines, including NY, NOS1, and U2OS, display less resemblance to OS tumors than do other cell lines. For genes overexpressed in tumors, and consequently underexpressed in cell lines, gene ontology analysis enriched pathways related to cell-cell adhesion and stimulus detection. Conclusion: The pathways dysregulated between cell lines and tumors have been implicated in OS pathogenesis. Therefore, the findings suggest that the transcriptome of OS cell lines may not be completely representative of OS primary tumors’ gene expression and the disease process.
A Systematic Review of Interventions Used to Increase Blood Donor Compliance with Deferral Criteria
Authors: Cutts Julia C. , Quinn Brendan , Seed Clive R. , Kotsiou George , Pearson Ruth , Scott Nick , Wilson David P. , Harrod Mary Ellen , Maher Lisa , Caris Sharon , Thompson Alex J. , Farrell Michael , Pink Joanne , Hellard Margaret E.
Published: July 2020

Background and Objectives: Pre-donation screening of potential blood donors is critical for ensuring the safety of the donor blood supply, and donor deferral as a result of risk factors is practised worldwide. This systematic review was conducted in the context of an expert review convened by the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood in 2013 to consider Lifeblood’s injecting drug use (IDU)-related policies and aimed to identify studies assessing interventions to improve compliance with deferral criteria in blood donation settings. Materials and Methods: MEDLINE/PubMed, OVID Medline, OVID Embase, LILACS, and the Cochrane Library (CENTRAL and DARE) databases were searched for studies conducted within blood donation settings that examined interventions to increase blood donor compliance with deferral criteria. Observational and experimental studies from all geographical areas were considered. Results: Ten studies were identified that tested at least one intervention to improve blood donor compliance with deferral criteria, including computerized interviews or questionnaires, direct and indirect oral questioning, educational materials, and a combination of a tickbox questionnaire and a personal donor interview. High-quality evidence from a single study was provided for the effectiveness of a computerized interview in improving detection of HIV risk behaviour. Low-quality evidence for the effectiveness of computerized interviews was provided by 3 additional studies. Two studies reported a moderate effect of direct questioning in increasing donor deferral, but the quality of the evidence was low. Conclusion: This review identified several interventions to improve donor compliance that have been tested in blood donation settings and provided evidence for the effectiveness of computerized interviews in improving detection of risk factors.
Markers of Myocardial Stress, Myocardial Injury, and Subclinical Inflammation and the Risk of Sudden Death
Authors: Everett Brendan M. , Moorthy M.V. , Tikkanen Jani T. , Cook Nancy R. , Albert Christine M.
Published: July 2020

Background:

The majority of sudden cardiac deaths (SCDs) occur in low-risk populations often as the first manifestation of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Biomarkers are screening tools that may identify subclinical cardiovascular disease and those at elevated risk for SCD. We aimed to determine whether the total to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio, high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I, NT-proBNP (N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide), or high-sensitivity C-reactive protein individually or in combination could identify individuals at higher SCD risk in large, free-living populations with and without cardiovascular disease.

Methods:

We performed a nested case-control study within 6 prospective cohort studies using 565 SCD cases matched to 1090 controls (1:2) by age, sex, ethnicity, smoking status, and presence of cardiovascular disease.

Results:

The median study follow-up time until SCD was 11.3 years. When examined as quartiles or continuous variables in conditional logistic regression models, each of the biomarkers was significantly and independently associated with SCD risk after mutually controlling for cardiac risk factors and other biomarkers. The mutually adjusted odds ratios for the top compared with the bottom quartile were 1.90 (95% CI, 1.30–2.76) for total to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio, 2.59 (95% CI, 1.76–3.83) for high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I, 1.65 (95% CI, 1.12–2.44) for NT-proBNP, and 1.65 (95% CI, 1.13–2.41) for high-sensitivity C-reactive protein. A biomarker score that awarded 1 point when the concentration of any of those 4 biomarkers was in the top quartile (score range, 0–4) was strongly associated with SCD, with an adjusted odds ratio of 1.56 (95% CI, 1.37–1.77) per 1-unit increase in the score.

Conclusions:

Widely available measures of lipids, subclinical myocardial injury, myocardial strain, and vascular inflammation show significant independent associations with SCD risk in apparently low-risk populations. In combination, these measures may have utility to identify individuals at risk for SCD.
Possible Link Between the ABO Blood Group of Bioprosthesis Recipients and Specific Types of Structural Degeneration
Authors: Schussler Olivier , Lila Nermine , Grau Juan , Ruel Marc , Lecarpentier Yves , Carpentier Alain
Published: July 2020

Background

Pigs/bovines share common antigens with humans: α‐Gal, present in all pigs/bovines close to the human B‐antigen; and AH‐histo‐blood‐group antigen, identical to human AH‐antigen and present only in some animals. We investigate the possible impact of patients’ ABO blood group on bioprosthesis structural valve degeneration (SVD) through calcification/pannus/tears/perforations for patients ≤60 years at implantation.

Methods and Results

This was a single‐center study (Paris, France) that included all degenerative bioprostheses explanted between 1985 and 1998, mostly porcine bioprostheses (Carpentier‐Edwards second/third porcine bioprostheses) and some bovine bioprostheses. For the period 1998 to 2014, only porcine bioprostheses with longevity ≥13 years were included (total follow‐up ≥29 years). Except for blood groups, important predictive factors for SVD were prospectively collected (age at implantation/longevity/number/site/sex/SVD types) and analyzed using logistic regression. All variables were available for 500 explanted porcine bioprostheses. By multivariate analyses, the A group was associated with an increased risk of: tears (odds ratio[OR], 1.61;
P
=0.026); pannus (OR, 1.5;
P
=0.054), pannus with tears (OR, 1.73;
P
=0.037), and tendency for lower risk of: calcifications (OR, 0.63;
P
=0.087) or isolated calcification (OR, 0.67;
P
=0.17). A‐antigen was associated with lower risk of perforations (OR 0.56;
P
=0.087). B‐group patients had an increased risk of: perforations (OR, 1.73;
P
=0.043); having a pannus that was calcified (OR, 3.0,
P
=0.025). B‐antigen was associated with a propensity for calcifications in general (OR, 1.34;
P
=0.25).

Conclusions

Patient’s ABO blood group is associated with specific SVD types. We hypothesize that carbohydrate antigens, which may or may not be common to patient and animal bioprosthetic tissue, will determine a patient’s specific immunoreactivity with respect to xenograft tissue and thus bioprosthesis outcome in terms of SVD.
Right‐Sided Infective Endocarditis 2020: Challenges and Updates in Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Shmueli Hezzy , Thomas Felix , Flint Nir , Setia Gayatri , Janjic Aleksandar , Siegel Robert J.
Published: July 2020

Compared with the extensive data on left‐sided infective endocarditis (
IE
), there is much less published information on the features and management of right‐sided
IE
. Right‐sided
IE
accounts for 5% to 10% of all
IE
cases, and compared with left‐sided
IE
, it is more often associated with intravenous drug use, intracardiac devices, and central venous catheters, all of which has become more prevalent over the past 20 years. In this manuscript on right‐sided
IE
we provide an up‐to‐date overview on the epidemiology, etiology, microbiology, potential locations of infection in the right heart, diagnosis, imaging, common complications, management, and prognosis. We present updated information on the treatment of pacemaker and device infections, infected fibrin sheaths that appear to be an easily missed source of infection after central line as well as pacemaker removal. We review current data on the AngioVac percutaneous aspiration device, which can obviate the need for surgery in patients with infected pacemaker leads and fibrin sheaths. We also focused on advanced diagnostic modalities, such as positron emission tomography/computed tomography. All of these are supported by specific case examples with detailed echocardiographic imaging from our experience.
Abraham Unbound: The Prefiguration of the Unconscious in the First Generation of the Musar and Hasidic Movements
Authors: Boulouque Clémence
Published: July 2020

This study examines the respective theological assumptions of two major forces in nineteenth-century Judaism—the Musar and the early Hasidic movements, and the way in which the budding concept of the unconscious illuminates both. Often translated as an ethical approach, the Musar movement originated from Lithuania and focused on Torah study as it deemed Talmud insufficient to create a deep, emotional attachment to Judaism; yet, despite their shared emphasis on emotions and their criticism of talmudic studies, the Musar movement was at odds with Hasidism, the mystical Jewish current that swept Eastern Europe from the eighteenth century onward. Through an examination of the biblical motif of the binding of Isaac, and the reaction of Abraham, this article will probe both movements’ analysis of the patriarch’s psychological make up. Such a comparison of their understanding of the pre-conscious psychic states will illustrate the nature of their theological opposition.
A Divergent Research Agenda: Academic and Professional Publications on Science, Technology and Innovation Parks
Authors: do Amaral Marcelo Gonçalves , da Hora André Luiz Furtado , Messias Nathan Ribeiro , de Andrade Cunha Leandro , Maia Jéssica Souza
Published: July 2020

This research analyzes the evolution of the publications from academic researchers and technical publications carried out by professionals of the Science, Technology, and Innovation Parks (stips). The objective is to compare the research agenda from the two groups, increasing the comprehension of who they are and what they are researching. The method uses bibliometric techniques. The research found that the academic authors dealt with conceptual themes, while managers emphasized operations issues. Also, it was identified the growth in the academic interest on the subject (after 2015); the limited number of academic publications (177 in 12 years); China, Taiwan, and Spain as the countries with the highest academic output (40%); Spain, Brazil, and the usa concentrates 35% of technical publications. The work has implications for the academy (new topics for research agenda), and to the parks and policymakers enables a perception of the parks’ relevance to the economic development.
A re-description of Fragilaria fonticola Hustedt and its varieties, with three new combinations and one new species from India

Authors: VIGNESHWARAN ANBUKKARASU , WETZEL CARLOS E. , WILLIAMS DAVID M. , KARTHICK BALASUBRAMANIAN
Published: July 2020

Tabularia (Kützing) D.M. Williams & Round has received some attention since its separation from Synedra. The present study investigates Fragilaria fonticola Hustedt and its varieties based on the analysis of the type materials. The combinations were proposed as Tabularia fonticola (Hustedt) C.E. Wetzel & D.M. Williams comb. nov. (≡ Fragilaria fonticola Hustedt), Tabularia angusta (Hustedt) C.E. Wetzel & D.M. Williams comb. nov. et stat. nov. (≡ Fragilaria fonticola var. angusta Hustedt), Tabularia chandolensis (Gandhi) A. Vigneshwaran, D.M. Williams & B. Karthick comb. nov. (≡ Synedra chandolensis Gandhi) and the new species, Tabularia koynensis sp. nov. is also described from the Koyna River basin, Western Ghats, India. The detailed morphological features were analysed under light and scanning electron microscopy. Tabularia koynensis has linear valves outline with square to rounded ends. Striae short, radiate towards ends. This new species compared with T. sinensis, T. fasciculata, T. tabulata, T. kobayasii and Fragilaria longissima, which differ in size, valve shape, striae density and ultrastructure.
Taxonomic notes in Meriania (Melastomataceae) from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, including a new species, a resurrected one and a new synonym

Authors: GOLDENBERG RENATO , MEYER FABRÍCIO S. , MICHELANGELI FABIÁN A.
Published: July 2020

We present a new species, a new synonym, the resurrection of a species that has been synonymized before, updates on the distribution of three species, and lectotypifications for two species of Meriania from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. Meriania baumgratziana is a new species apparently restricted to montane areas in the western portion of the state of Rio de Janeiro. It can be recognized by the sessile to subsessile leaves, these lanceolate, elliptic lanceolate or oblong-lanceolate, with cordate to cordulate, amplexicaul bases (seldom narrowly round), the abaxial surface in young leaves with the union of the primary and the inner pair of secondary veins with a membrane forming pocket domatia, these with trichomes emerging from the inside, then in older leaves the membranes frequently enlarged, globular, these hypertrophied structures sometimes caducous, or easily removed by friction, and by the pendulous inflorescences with 4-merous flowers. Meriania paratyensis Chiavegatto & Baumgratz is synonymized under M. sanchezii R.Goldenb., which in turn is resurrected from what we understand as a mistaken synonymy under M. paniculata DC. We present a discussion and illustrations of leaves and fruits, in order to explain these changes and compare all these three species, plus a fourth similar species, M. glabra (DC.) Naudin. The distributions of Meriania calyptrata (Naudin) Triana and M. sanchezii are updated, the former with the inclusion of specimens collected in the western tip of the state of Rio de Janeiro (it was previously recorded only for eastern São Paulo), and the latter in the exactly opposite way, with new records from Rio de Janeiro added to the previously known specimens from São Paulo. Finally, lectotypes are designated for Meriania calyptrata and M. glabra (DC.) Naudin (this superseding a previous, unnecessary designation of a neotype).
Digital Hearing Aids Using Automated Varying Bandwidth Finite Impulse Response Filter Banks
Authors: Jun Hu , Jian Zeng , Hong Yi , Jayabharathy R. , Gomathi V. , Valarmathi R. , Bagyalakshmi G. , Elamaran V. , Saravanan S.
Published: July 2020

A human auditory system is a highly complex sensitive system which transfers the acoustic sound into neuroelectrical signals toward the brain. Hearing difficulties or deafness are the outcomes of the problems occurred at any part of the auditory system. Assistive technologies such as
hearing aids are developed to improve the quality of life of the hearing impaired people. Current digital hearing aids have fixed bandwidth filter banks which cannot provide enough flexibility to match with audiogram of different hearing loss. Recently, variable bandwidth filter banks have
been introduced with different technologies to match more closely with the audiogram of a particular hearing loss. This research work proposes and implements a software controlled variable bandwidth FIR filter bank using Matlab GUI. In the Matlab GUI, in the filter bank, the bandwidth of every
filter is adjusted dynamically in the Matlab GUI such that it fits more closely to the audiogram of a particular hearing loss. An experiment has been conducted in the developed Matlab GUI with various hearing loss, and the results show that the proposed system matches the filter bank magnitude
response very closely to the audiogram of a particular hearing loss and reduces the matching error.
Deep Learning Based Study on Effect of Fat Thickness on Cardiovascular Function in Essential Hypertension Patients
Authors: Ma Yingxia , Xu Xiaodong
Published: July 2020

In vitro and clinical studies were conducted to investigate whether uric acid could regulate RAS in adipose tissue using 3T3-L1 adipocytes as experimental model. The unsupervised Depth Neural Network (DNN) algorithm is introduced to train and learn the correlation analysis model.
Because DNN algorithm has some shortcomings in computing performance, we hope to improve it, an automatic sparse encoder is designed, which can effectively preprocess the data and improve the accuracy and efficiency of the prediction algorithm. Then, the effect of RAS activation in adipose
tissue on the molecular mechanism of uric acid-induced oxidative stress was investigated by means of deep neural network algorithm. Finally, in 324 patients with hypertension, serum uric acid and plasma AGT were extracted, in these cases, the physical feature of obesity was added. Most of
the patients with hypertension are obese, and their uric acid is high. This study provides a basis for the diagnosis and treatment of hypertension.
Analysis of Medical Health System Based on Game Cross-Efficiency Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) Model and Global Malmquist Index
Authors: Yu Jinna , Zhang Tingting , Ning Youliang , Lu Lu
Published: July 2020

Considering the competition of medical resource in the medical system, this paper uses the game crossefficiency DEA model and global Malmquist index to dynamically analyze the input—output efficiency, total factor productivity (TFP) change and its decomposition of the medical
system, based on the data of 40 years of Reform and Opening Up in Guizhou Province. The results show that the technological efficiency of medical system in Guizhou Province has experienced a trend of “two declines and two rises,” the TFP change and technological change in Guizhou
Province show a similar trend “increasing at first, then decreasing, and increasing again.” The efficiency change showed a decreasing trend in the first 30 year of Reform and Opening Up, and then showed a strong increasing trend. Through the efficiency analysis and the kernel density
estimation, the progress of medical system in Guizhou has not been expected since the Reform and Opening Up, and there are structural differences in the medical system in Guizhou. In order to improve the efficiency and TFP of medical system, and improve the overall health level in Guizhou,
it is suggested that Guizhou should actively learn from the advanced and mature medical reform model in the process of deepening the medical reform, strengthen the technical innovation in the medical field, make full use of Big Data to coordinate the development of the medical system in all
prefectures or cities, and realize the sharing of medical resources.
The Role of Spiral CT Pulmonary Angiography in the Diagnosis of Postoperative Complications in Patients with Acute Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Xie Yong , Zhang Shushu
Published: July 2020

The purpose is to explore the effect of iterative model reconstruction (IMR) algorithm on improving quality of spiral computed tomography angiography (SCTA) image and its clinical application in the diagnosis of acute pulmonary embolism (PE) complications. 88 patients with acute PE
who visited Chongqing Zhongxian People’s Hospital hospital from October 2017 to October 2019 were selected as the study objects, and their CT values, standard deviation (SD) value of background noise, CT volume dose index, and dose length product of pulmonary artery trunk and the erector
spines of the spinal column were measured by spiral CT scanning at the tube voltage of 80 kv and 100 kv, respectively. As for image reconstruction, IMR, IDose4 algorithm in hybrid iterative reconstruction (HIR) and Filtering back-projection (FBP) were utilized. By comparing signal-noise ratio
(SNR), contrast-noise ratio (CNR) and figure of merit (FOM), the image quality, radiation dose, sensitivity and specificity of different reconstruction algorithms in diagnosis of acute PE were analyzed. The results showed that the background noise of the IMR reconstruction algorithm was lower
than that of IDose4 and FBP, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The CT value of IMR reconstruction algorithm was significantly higher than that of IDose4 and FBP reconstruction algorithm, and the difference was not statistically significant (P >
0.05). The SNR and CNR of IMR were significantly higher than those of IDose4 and FBP, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The FOM values of IMR were significantly higher than those of IDose4 and FBP, and the differences were statistically significant (P
< 0.05). CT volume dose index, dose length product, and effective dose of the 80 kv tube voltage group were all lower than that of the 100 kv tube voltage group, accounting for 49.34%, 50.50%, and 52.53% of the 100 kv tube voltage group. And the FOM of 80 kv tube voltage group was higher
than that of 100 kv tube voltage group. The sensitivity and specificity of IMR reconstructed images in diagnosis of acute PE complications were higher than those of reconstructed images of IDose4 and FBP, which were 97.67% and 92.0%, respectively. Therefore, the improved SCTA information technology
based on the IMR algorithm has better image quality than the IDose4 and FBP reconstruction algorithms, and the image quality index of low-dose scan (80 kv) of the improved SCTA information technology based on the IMR algorithm is higher than that of normal-dose scan (100 kv).
Compensatory Nursing for Patients with Post-Hepatitis B Virus Cirrhosis Through Ultrasound Imaging Information
Authors: Yang Huiling , Ai Hong , Du Fenjing , Ye Feng , Ray Angel
Published: July 2020

Objective: To identify and classify the B-mode ultrasound images by utilizing the elastic algorithm of wavelet packet decomposition (WPD) and Bayesian belief network (BBN), thereby increasing the cure rate of cirrhosis by interfering the compensatory nursing for cirrhosis patients
who were previously infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV). Method: First, the WPD-based elastic feature extraction algorithm (FEA), the texture FEA, the time series-based energy spectrum FEA, and the BBN are introduced. Also, the statistical feature distribution of the five fitting
parameters is analyzed. Based on these three FEAs, the classification and recognition experiments of normal liver samples and liver cirrhosis samples are compared to complete the grayscale imaging of B ultrasound images. To further improve the accuracy of imaging, these elastic new features
are used to build a BBN model, and the output posterior probability is used as a new parameter to realize liver ultrasound B-mode imaging. Results: Among all the classification models, the recognition rates based on the elastic new features are the highest. Especially, the average recognition
rate of elastic features under random forest has reached 95%. The elastic parameters extracted from radio frequency (RF) signals obtained by conventional ultrasound diagnostic instruments are used for elastography, which can characterize the elastic information of liver tissue. Based on the
elastic features, a BBN model is constructed. The pseudo-color coding of the output posterior probability of the model can characterize the stiffness of liver tissue. Also, its new parameter elastography intuitively displays the elastic information of liver tissue. Conclusion: The proposed
elastic FEA of WPD and BBN have an excellent ability to identify and classify ultrasound images of cirrhosis, which can be applied in the clinical diagnosis of cirrhosis, as well as the compensatory nursing for patients with post-HBV cirrhosis.
Party Positions, Income Inequality, and Voter Turnout in Canada, 1984-2015
Authors: Polacko Matthew
Published: July 2020

Scholars have focused on the relationship between income inequality and voter turnout cross-nationally and within the United States. However, rising inequality and declining turnout has afflicted Canada to a greater extent than most other Western countries. As turnout in Canadian federal elections began to decline appreciably in the 1990s, inequality began to rise. With multilevel pooled analysis utilizing Canadian Election Studies from 1984 to 2015, party manifesto data, and measures of inequality at the subnational level, this article tests the effects of income inequality on turnout in Canada, and whether the relationship is conditioned by party policy programs. In line with relative power theory, mixed-effects regressions indicate that inequality is negatively associated with turnout, especially for low-income earners. However, latent conflict is manifested when political parties propose greater redistribution, as the negative effects of inequality on turnout are then significantly alleviated.
Ostmann’s Fat Pad—Does it Really Matter?
Authors: Biadsee Ameen , Fanadka Feda , Dagan Or , Firas Kassem , Nageris Benny
Published: July 2020

Objective:

To compare the size of Ostmann’s fat pad (OFP) between healthy ears and ears with chronic otitis media with cholestatoma (COMwC) using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods:

Twenty-six patients with unilateral COMwC underwent mastoidectomy. Pre-operative MRI records were reviewed retrospectively. The healthy ears served as the control group. OFP is represented by the maximum diameter of the high intensity area medial to the tensor veli palatini muscle (TVP); M1. A reference diameter was defined from the medial border of OFP reaching the medial border of the medial pterygoid muscle; M2. Values of M1, M2 and the ratio of M1:M2 was compared between the healthy and pathological ear in each patient.

Results:

All 26 patients (16 females,10 males) had unilateral cholestatoma. Mean age was 37.6 years (range 19-83). In the healthy (H) ears group, mean M1H was 2.04 ± 0.53 mm, mean M2H was 9.57 ± 2.57 mm. In the pathological (P) ears group; mean M1P was 2.03 ± 0.55 mm, mean M2P was 9.86 ± 2.37 mm. A comparison of M1 and M2 values between the healthy and pathological ear groups was not statistically significant ( P = .853 and P = .509, respectively). Mean M1H:M2H ratio in the healthy ears group was 0.22 ± 0.05, mean M1P:M2P ratio in the pathological ear group was 0.21 ± 0.06. A comparison between these ratios found no significant statistical correlation ( P = .607).

Conclusion:

The size of Ostmann’s fat pad does not affect the development of chronic otitis media with cholestatoma in adults.