bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study into the reversal of septic shock with landiolol (beta blockade): STRESS-L Study protocol for a randomised trial
Authors: Lall Ranjit , Mistry Dipesh , Skilton Emma , Boota Nafisa , Regan Scott , Bion Julian , Gates Simon , Gordon Anthony C , Lord Janet , McAuley Daniel Francis , Perkins Gavin , Singer Mervyn , Young Duncan , Whitehouse Tony
Published: February 2021

Introduction

In 2013, a single-centre study reported the safe use of esmolol in patients with septic shock and tachycardia who required vasopressor therapy for more than 24 hours. Although not powered to detect a change in mortality, marked improvements were seen in survival (adjusted HR, 0.39; 95% CI, 0.26 to 0.59; p<0.001). Beta blockers are one of the most studied groups of drugs but their effect in septic shock is poorly understood; proposed mechanisms include not only the modulation of cardiac function but also immunomodulation.

Methods and analysis

STRESS-L is a randomised, open-label, non-blinded clinical trial which is enrolling a total of 340 patients with septic shock as defined by Sepsis-3 consensus definition and a tachycardia (heart rate ≥95 beats per minute (bpm)) after vasopressor treatment of at least 24 hours. Standard randomisation (1:1 ratio) allocates patients to receive usual care (according to international standards) versus usual care and a continuous landiolol infusion to reduce the heart rate between 80 and 94 bpm. The primary endpoint is the mean Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score over 14 days from entry into the trial and while in intensive care unit. Results will inform current clinical practice guidelines.

Ethics and dissemination

This trial has clinical trial authorisation from the UK competent authority, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, and has been approved by the East of England-Essex Research Ethics Committee (reference: 17/EE/0368).

The results of the trial will be reported first to trial collaborators. The main report will be drafted by the trial coordinating team, and the final version will be agreed by the Trial Steering Committee before submission for publication, on behalf of the collaboration.

Registration

The trial is funded by the National Institute for Health Research Efficacy and Mechanism Evaluation (EME) (Project Number: EME-14/150/85) and registeredISRCTN12600919and EudraCT: 2017-001785-14.
Protocol for a cluster randomised trial evaluating a multifaceted intervention starting preconceptionally—Early Interventions to Support Trajectories for Healthy Life in India (EINSTEIN): a Healthy Life Trajectories Initiative (HeLTI) Study
Authors: Kumaran Kalyanaraman , Krishnaveni Ghattu V , Suryanarayana Kumar Gavali , Prasad Manohar Prabhu , Belavendra Antonisamy , Atkinson Stephanie , Balasubramaniam Ramaswamy , Bandsma Robert H J , Bhutta Zulfiqar A , Chandak Giriraj Ratan , Comelli Elena M , Davidge Sandra T , Dennis Cindy-Lee , Hammond Geoffrey L , Jha Prabhat , Joseph K S , Joshi Sadhana R , Krishna Murali , Lee Kang , Lye Stephen , McGowan Patrick , Nepomnaschy Pablo , Padvetnaya Vivek , Pyne Saumyadipta , Sachdev Harshpal Singh , Sahariah Sirazul Ameen , Singhal Nalini , Trasler Jacquetta , Yajnik Chittaranjan S , Baird Janis , Barker Mary , Martin Marie-Claude , Husain Nusrat , Sellen Daniel , Fall Caroline H D , Shah Prakesh S , Matthews Stephen G
Published: February 2021

Introduction

The Healthy Life Trajectories Initiative is an international consortium comprising four harmonised but independently powered trials to evaluate whether an integrated intervention starting preconceptionally will reduce non-communicable disease risk in their children. This paper describes the protocol of the India study.

Methods and analysis

The study set in rural Mysore will recruit ~6000 married women over the age of 18 years. The village-based cluster randomised design has three arms (preconception, pregnancy and control; 35 villages per arm). The longitudinal multifaceted intervention package will be delivered by community health workers and comprise: (1) measures to optimise nutrition; (2) a group parenting programme integrated with cognitive–behavioral therapy; (3) a lifestyle behaviour change intervention to support women to achieve a diverse diet, exclusive breast feeding for the first 6 months, timely introduction of diverse and nutritious infant weaning foods, and adopt appropriate hygiene measures; and (4) the reduction of environmental pollution focusing on indoor air pollution and toxin avoidance.

The primary outcome is adiposity in children at age 5 years, measured by fat mass index. We will report on a host of intermediate and process outcomes. We will collect a range of biospecimens including blood, urine, stool and saliva from the mothers, as well as umbilical cord blood, placenta and specimens from the offspring.

An intention-to-treat analysis will be adopted to assess the effect of interventions on outcomes. We will also undertake process and economic evaluations to determine scalability and public health translation.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been approved by the institutional ethics committee of the lead institute. Findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals. We will interact with policy makers at local, national and international agencies to enable translation. We will also share the findings with the participants and local community through community meetings, newsletters and local radio.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN20161479, CTRI/2020/12/030134; Pre-results.
Bundle approach used to achieve zero central line-associated bloodstream infections in an adult coronary intensive care unit
Authors: Gupta Poonam , Thomas Mincy , Patel Ashfaq , George Reeba , Mathews Leena , Alex Seenu , John Siji , Simbulan Cherlyn , Garcia Ma Leni , Al-Balushi Sara , El Hassan Mawahib
Published: February 2021

Background

Central venous catheterisation is commonly used in critical patients in intensive care units (ICU). It may cause complications and attribute to increase mortality and morbidity. At coronary ICU (CICU) of cardiac hospital, central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) rate was 2.82/1000 central line days in 2015 and 3.11/1000 central line days in 2016. Working in collaboration with Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI), we implemented evidence-based practices in the form of bundles in with the aim of eliminating CLABSI in CICU.

Methods

In collaboration with IHI, we worked on this initiative as multidisciplinary team and tested several changes. CLABSI prevention bundles were tested and implemented, single kit for line insertion, simulation-based training for line insertions, standardised and real-time bundle monitoring by direct observations are key interventions tested. We used model for improvement and changes were tested using small Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles. Surveillance methods and CLABSI definition used according to National Healthcare Safety Network.

Results

The CLABSI rate per 1000 patient-days dropped from 3.1 per 1000 device-days to 0.4 per 1000 device-days. We achieved 757 days free of CLABSI in the unit till December 2018 when a single case happened. After that we achieved 602 free days till July 2020 and still counting.

Conclusions

Implementation of evidence-based CLABSI prevention bundle and process monitoring by direct observation led to significant and subsequently sustained improvement in reducing CLABSI rate in adult CICU.
Does birth matter?
Authors: Veit Walter
Published: February 2021

This paper is a response to a recent paper by Bobier and Omelianchuk in which they argue that the critics of Giubilini and Minerva’s defence of infanticide fail to adequately justify a moral difference at birth. They argue that such arguments would lead to an intuitively less plausible position: that late-term abortions are permissible, thus creating a dilemma for those who seek to argue that birth matters. I argue that the only way to resolve this dilemma, is to bite the naturalist bullet and accept that the intuitively plausible idea that birth constitutes a morally relevant event is simply mistaken and biologically misinformed.
Body volume is the major determinant of worsening renal function in acutely decompensated heart failure with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction
Authors: Ho Mei Han , Huang Duo , Ho Chi-Wai , Zuo Ming-Liang , Luo An-Guo , Cheung Emmanuel , Zhou Mi , Cheng Yangyang , Liu Mingya , Yiu Kai-Hang , Lau Chu Pak , Yeung Pauline , Yue Wen Sheng , Yin Li-Xue , Tse Hung Fat , Jiang Wei , Lei Zhen , Li Xin-Li , Cowie M , Siu Chung Wah
Published: February 2021

Aims

Little is known about the relative importance of body volume and haemodynamic parameters in the development of worsening of renal function in acutely decompensated heart failure (ADHF). To study the relationship between haemodynamic parameters, body water content and worsening of renal function in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) hospitalised for ADHF.

Methods and results

This prospective observational study involved 51 consecutive patients with HFrEF (age: 73±14 years, male: 60%, left ventricular ejection fraction: 33.3%±9.9%) hospitalised for ADHF. Echocardiographic-determined haemodynamic parameters and body volume determined using a bioelectric impedance analyser were serially obtained. All patients received intravenous furosemide 160 mg/day for 3 days. There was a mean weight loss of 3.95±2.82 kg (p<0.01), and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) reduced from 1380±901 pg/mL to 797±738 pg/mL (p<0.01). Nonetheless serum creatinine (SCr) increased from 134±46 μmol/L to 151±53 μmol/L (p<0.01), and 35% of patients developed worsening of renal function. The change in SCr was positively correlated with age (r=0.34, p=0.017); and negatively with the ratio of extracellular water to total body water, a parameter of body volume status (r=−0.58, p<0.001); E:E’ ratio (r=−0.36, p=0.01); right ventricular systolic pressure (r=−0.40, p=0.009); and BNP (r=−0.40, p=0.004). Counterintuitively, no correlation was observed between SCr and cardiac output, or total peripheral vascular resistance. Regression analysis revealed that normal body volume and lower BNP independently predicted worsening of renal function.

Conclusions

Normal body volume and lower serum BNP on admission were associated with worsening of renal function in patients with HFrEF hospitalised for ADHF.
Effectiveness and safety of secukinumab in 608 patients with psoriatic arthritis in real life: a 24-month prospective, multicentre study
Authors: Ramonda Roberta , Lorenzin Mariagrazia , Carriero Antonio , Chimenti Maria Sole , Scarpa Raffaele , Marchesoni Antonio , Lubrano Ennio , Salvarani Carlo , Cauli Alberto , Semeraro Angelo , Santo Leonardo , Ortolan Augusta , Doria Andrea , Fracassi Elena , Virelli Giulia , Masia Marco , Fanizzi Rosalinda , Visalli Elisa , Amato Giorgio , Carletto Antonio , Foti Rosario
Published: February 2021

Objectives

To evaluate in a multicentric Italian cohort of patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) on secukinumab followed for 24 months: (1) the long-term effectiveness and safety of secukinumab, (2) the drug retention rate and minimal disease activity (MDA), (3) diﬀerences in the outcomes according to the biological treatment line: biologic-naïve patients (group A) versus multifailure (group B) patients.

Methods

Consecutive patients with PsA receiving secukinumab were evaluated prospectively. Disease characteristics, previous/ongoing treatments, comorbidities and follow-up duration were collected. Disease activity/functional/clinimetric scores and biochemical values were recorded at baseline (T0), 6(T6), 12(T12) and 24(T24) months. Effectiveness was evaluated overtime with descriptive statistics; multivariate Cox and logistic regression models were used to evaluate predictors of drug-discontinuation and MDA at T6. Infections and adverse events were recorded.

Results

608 patients (41.28% men; mean (SD) age 52.78 (11.33)) were enrolled; secukinumab was prescribed as first-line biological treatment in 227 (37.34%) patients, as second (or more)-line biological treatment in 381 (62.66%). Effectiveness of secukinumab was shown with an improvement in several outcomes, such as Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score (T0=3.26 (0.88) vs T24=1.60 (0.69) ;p=0.02) and Disease Activity Index for Psoriatic Arthritis (T0=25.29 (11.14) vs T24=7.69 (4.51); p<0.01). At T24,group Ashowed lower Psoriasis Area Severity Index (p=0.04), erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C reactive protein (p=0.03 ;p=0.05) and joint count (p=0.03) compared withgroup B. At T24, MDA was achieved in 75.71% ofgroup Aand 70.37% ofgroup B. Treatment was discontinued in 123 (20.23%) patients, mainly due to primary/secondary loss of effectiveness, and in 22 due to adverse events. Retention rate at T24 was 71% in the whole population, with some difference depending on secukinumab dosage (p=0.004) and gender (p=0.05).

Conclusions

In a real-life clinical setting, secukimumab proved safe and effective in all PsA domains, with notable drug retention rate.
Association between lung function of school age children and short-term exposure to air pollution and pollen: the PARIS cohort
Authors: Amazouz Hélène , Bougas Nicolas , Thibaudon Michel , Lezmi Guillaume , Beydon Nicole , Bourgoin-Heck Mélisande , Just Jocelyne , Momas Isabelle , Rancière Fanny
Published: February 2021

Background

Daily levels of ambient air pollution and pollen may affect lung function but have rarely been studied together. We investigated short-term exposure to pollen and air pollution in relation to lung function in school-age children from a French population-based birth cohort.

Methods

This study included 1063 children from the PARIS (Pollution and Asthma Risk: an Infant Study) cohort whose lung function and FeNO measurements were performed at age 8 years old. Exposure data were collected up to 4 days before testing. We estimated daily total pollen concentration, daily allergenic risk indices for nine pollen taxa, as well as daily concentrations of three air pollutants (particulate matter less than 10 µm (PM
10
), nitrogen dioxide (NO
2
), ozone (O
3
)). Children with similar pollen and air pollution exposure were grouped using multidimensional longitudinal cluster analysis. Associations between clusters of pollen and air pollution exposure and respiratory indices (FEV
1
, FVC, FeNO) were studied using multivariable linear and logistic regression models adjusted for potential confounders.

Results

Four clusters of exposure were identified: no pollen and low air pollution (Cluster 1), grass pollen (Cluster 2), PM
10
(Cluster 3) and birch/plane-tree pollen with high total pollen count (Cluster 4). Compared with children in Cluster 1, children in Cluster 2 had significantly lower FEV
1
and FVC levels, and children from Cluster 3 had higher FeNO levels. For FEV
1
and FVC, the associations appeared stronger in children with current asthma. Additional analysis suggested a joint effect of grass pollen and air pollution on lung function.

Conclusion

Daily ambient chemical and biological air quality could adversely influence lung function in children.
Risk of in-hospital mortality in severe acute kidney injury after traumatic injuries: a national trauma quality program study
Authors: Ahmed Nasim , Mathew Roy O , Kuo Yenhong , Asif Arif
Published: February 2021

Background

The development of acute kidney injury (AKI) in trauma patients has been associated with an almost threefold increase in overall mortality. Many risk factors of mortality in severe AKI have been reported, but majority of the studies have been performed using a single-center data or have a small sample size. The purpose of this study was to identify the risk factors of mortality in severe AKI trauma patients.

Methods

The study was performed using 2012-2016 American College of Surgeon Trauma Quality Improvement Program data, a national database of trauma patients in the USA.

All adult trauma patients aged 16 to 89 years old, admitted to the hospital and who developed a severe AKI were included in the study. A p value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Out of 9309 trauma patients who developed severe AKI, 2641 (28.08%) died. There were significant differences found in bivariate analysis between the groups who died and who survived after developing a severe AKI. Multivariable analysis showed male sex, older age, higher Injury Severity Score, lower Glasgow Coma Scale, presence of hypotension (systolic blood pressure<90 mm Hg) and coagulopathy were all significantly associated with in-hospital mortality. The area under the curve value was 0.706 and the 95% CI was 0.68 to 0.727.

Discussion

Current analysis showed certain patients’ characteristics are associated with higher mortality in patients with severe AKI. Prompt identification and aggressive monitoring and management in high-risk patients may result in reduced mortality.

Level of evidence

IV.

Study type

Observational cohort study.
Herbicide strategies for managing glyphosate-resistant and -susceptible kochia (Bassia scoparia) in spring wheat
Authors: Torbiak Alysha T. , Blackshaw Robert E. , Brandt Randall N. , Hamman Bill , Geddes Charles M.
Published: February 2021

Kochia [Bassia scoparia (L.) A.J. Scott] is a summer annual tumbleweed that is tolerant of heat, drought, and salinity and capable of causing large yield losses in spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L). Increased incidence of glyphosate- and acetolactate synthase (ALS) inhibitor-resistant kochia in western Canada warrants investigation of alternative herbicides to manage these biotypes. Herbicides applied pre- or post-emergence in spring wheat were evaluated based on crop tolerance and control of ALS inhibitor-resistant kochia accessions with and without the glyphosate resistance trait in five environments near Lethbridge and Coalhurst, Alberta, from 2013 to 2015. The most effective and consistent treatments for kochia management included sulfentrazone applied pre-emergence and fluroxypyr/bromoxynil/2,4-D or pyrasulfotole/bromoxynil applied post-emergence. All of these treatments resulted in ≥90% visible control in all environments and ≥90% kochia biomass reduction compared with the untreated control in Lethbridge 2014 and 2015. MCPA/dichlorprop-p/mecoprop-p, dicamba/2,4-D/mecoprop-p, and dicamba/fluroxypyr resulted in acceptable control among environments (≥80% visible control in all environments and ≥80% kochia biomass reduction in Lethbridge 2014 and 2015); however, the latter two options caused unacceptable (>10%) wheat visible injury in Coalhurst 2014. Recent confirmations of auxinic herbicide-resistant kochia in western Canada—due, in part, to use of synthetic auxins to manage glyphosate-resistant kochia in small-grain cereals—will limit kochia management options. When implemented with non-chemical tools as part of an integrated weed management program, alternative herbicide modes of action like protoporphyrinogen oxidase inhibitors before and photosystem II or 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase inhibitor(s) within spring wheat could mitigate selection for multiple herbicide-resistant kochia.
Origins and chromosome differentiation of Thinopyrum elongatum revealed by PepC and Pgk1 genes and ND-FISH
Authors: Dai Yi , Huang Shuai , Sun Genlou , Li Haifeng , Chen Shiqiang , Gao Yong , Chen Jianmin
Published: February 2021

Thinopyrum elongatum is an important gene pool for wheat genetic improvement. However, the origins of the Thinopyrum genomes and the nature of the genus’ intraspecific relationships are still controversial. In this study, we used single-copy nuclear genes and non-denaturing fluorescence in situ hybridization (ND-FISH) to characterize genome constitution and chromosome differentiation in Th. elongatum. According to phylogenetic analyses based on PepC and Pgk1 genes, there was an E genome with three versions (Ee, Eb, Ex) and St genomes in the polyploid Th. elongatum. The ND-FISH results of pSc119.2 and pAs1 revealed that the karyotypes of diploid Th. elongatum and Th. bessarabicum were different, and the chromosome differentiation occurred among accessions of the diploid Th. elongatum. In addition, the tetraploid Th. elongatum has two groups of ND-FISH karyotype, indicating that the tetraploid Th. elongatum might be a segmental allotetraploid. In summary, our results suggested that the diploid Th. elongatum, Th. Bessarabicum, and Pseudoroegneria were the donors of the Ee, Eb, and St genomes to the polyploid Th. elongatum, respectively.
Personalized EEG Feature Selection for Low-Complexity Seizure Monitoring
Authors: Peng Genchang , Nourani Mehrdad , Harvey Jay , Dave Hina
Published: February 2021

Approximately, one third of patients with epilepsy are refractory to medical therapy and thus can be at high risk of injuries and sudden unexpected death. A low-complexity electroencephalography (EEG)-based seizure monitoring algorithm is critically important for daily use, especially for wearable monitoring platforms. This paper presents a personalized EEG feature selection approach, which is the key to achieve a reliable seizure monitoring with a low computational cost. We advocate a two-step, personalized feature selection strategy to enhance monitoring performances for each patient. In the first step, linear discriminant analysis (LDA) is applied to find a few seizure-indicative channels. Then in the second step, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) method is employed to select a discriminative subset of both frequency and time domain features (spectral powers and entropy). A personalization strategy is further customized to find the best settings (number of channels and features) that yield the highest classification scores for each subject. Experimental results of analyzing 23 subjects in CHB-MIT database are quite promising. We have achieved an average F-1 score of 88% with excellent sensitivity and specificity using not more than 7 features extracted from at most 3 channels.
Precision physics of muonic ions of lithium, beryllium and boron
Authors: Dorokhov A. E. , Faustov R. N. , Martynenko A. P. , Martynenko F. A.
Published: February 2021

The problem of determining the main parameters of light nuclei from precision atomic spectroscopy is considered. Within the framework of the quasipotential method in quantum electrodynamics, the energy interval [Formula: see text] in muonic ions of lithium, beryllium and boron is calculated. Corrections of orders [Formula: see text], which are determined by relativistic effects, effects of vacuum polarization, nuclear structure and recoil, as well as combined corrections, including the above, are taken into account. Nuclear structure effects are expressed in terms of the nuclear charge radius in the case of one-photon interaction and the electromagnetic form factors of nuclei in the case of two-photon interaction. The obtained numerical values for the [Formula: see text] interval can be used for comparison with future experimental data and for a more accurate determination of the nucleus charge radii.
On the transition of transient growth mechanism in Taylor–Dean flow
Authors: Chen Cheng , Zhang Liu , Zhang Wei
Published: February 2021

We investigate optimal perturbation and its transient growth characteristics in Taylor–Dean flow theoretically. The parameter [Formula: see text], accounting for the ratio of average pumping velocity induced by azimuthal pressure gradient to rotating velocity by rotating cylinders, is varied from −5 to 5. The results show that for the rigid rotation case, the energy growth of optimal perturbation is increased with increasing magnitude of azimuthal pressure gradient. Further, both the main and secondary peak of the amplitude of azimuthal velocity are seen to be shifted towards the outer cylinder for wide gap case, and both are shifted oppositely towards the inner cylinder for narrow gap case. Viewing the time evolution of the energies in the three velocity components for wide gap case, anti-lift-up mechanism replaces lift-up mechanism as the dominant mechanism for energy growth, when [Formula: see text] changes from −5 to 5. While for narrow gap case, lift-up mechanism is always responsible for transient growth of axisymmetric perturbation, no matter how strong azimuthal pressure gradient is considered.
Fractional Matching Preclusion for Folded Petersen Cube Networks
Authors: ZOU JINYU , YE CHENGFU , REN HAIZHEN
Published: February 2021

Let F be an edge set and F′ a subset of edges and/or vertices of a graph G. Then F is a fractional matching preclusion(FMP) set (F′ is a fractional strong matching preclusion (FSMP) set) if G − F (G − F′) does not contain fractional perfect matching. The FMP(FSMP) number of G is the minimum size of FMP(FSMP) sets of G. The concept of matching preclusion was introduced by Brigham et al., as a measure of robustness in the event of edge failure in interconnection networks. An interconnection network of a larger MP number may be considered as more robust in the event of link failures. The problem of fractional matching preclusion is a generalization of matching preclusion. In this paper, we obtain the FMP and FSMP number for the folded Petersen cube networks. All the optimal fractional strong matching preclusion sets of these graphs are categorized.
3D Printing of Auxetic Shape-Memory Metamaterial Towards Designable Buckling
Authors: Li Zhenghong , Liu Yuheng , Wang Yafei , Lu Haibao , Lei Ming , Fu Yong Qing
Published: February 2021

As one of the most popular 3D printed metamaterials, the auxetic structure with its tunable Poisson’s ratio has attracted huge amount of attention recently. In this study, we designed an auxetic shape-memory metamaterial, which showed designable buckling responses by using the thermomechanically coupled in-plane instability. The influence of viscoelasticity on in-plane moduli and Poisson’s ratios of shape-memory auxetic metamaterial was experimentally investigated. Based on the generalized Maxwell model and finite-element method, the buckling behaviors and their main influence factors were studied. The analytical results and experimental ones showed a good agreement. Thermomechanical properties of the printed metamaterials govern the temperature and strain rate-dependent buckling, and a controllable transition from the negative to positive Poisson’s ratio in the metamaterials can be achieved. Based on the shape memory effect, the buckled state and the Poisson’s ratio of the metamaterials can be tuned by programmed thermomechanical processes. This study provides a simple and efficient way to generate morphing structures using the designable buckling effect.
Analysis of wave scattering in pipes with non-axisymmetric and inclined angle defects using finite element modeling
Authors: Masoumi Masoud , Giles Ryan K.
Published: February 2021

In this paper, elastic wave scattering in hollow pipes with non-axisymmetric and inclined angle defects is studied using finite element (FE) simulations. A comb array transducer is employed in the FE code to excite the pipe in its first longitudinal mode using a 10-cycle sine modulated excitation signal at 120[Formula: see text]kHz central frequency. Defects with variations in geometrical shapes such as depths, axial and circumferential lengths, and inclined angles are investigated to provide detailed analysis of wave propagation patterns and mode conversions in a 12-in diameter pipe. The influence of each geometrical parameter and also possible newborn modes is studied both in time and wavenumber-frequency domain via circumferential order identification approach and dispersion curves. Results show that the depth of a non-axisymmetric circumferential defect has the minimum influence on the propagating mode while crack’s width can influence the measured longitudinal mode in a sinusoidal pattern which is a function of excitation signal’s wavelength. Further, the propagating mode can exhibit higher contribution of either axisymmetric or non-axisymmetric modes based on the reflection patterns, depending on its angle and axial length.
Chapter 3.1b Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands: petrology
Authors: Leat Philip T. , Riley Teal R.
Published: February 2021

The Antarctic Peninsula contains a record of continental-margin volcanism extending from Jurassic to Recent times. Subduction of the Pacific oceanic lithosphere beneath the continental margin developed after Late Jurassic volcanism in Alexander Island that was related to extension of the continental margin. Mesozoic ocean-floor basalts emplaced within the Alexander Island accretionary complex have compositions derived from Pacific mantle. The Antarctic Peninsula volcanic arc was active from about Early Cretaceous times until the Early Miocene. It was affected by hydrothermal alteration, and by regional and contact metamorphism generally of zeolite to prehnite–pumpellyite facies. Distinct geochemical groups recognized within the volcanic rocks suggest varied magma generation processes related to changes in subduction dynamics. The four groups are: calc-alkaline, high-Mg andesitic, adakitic and high-Zr, the last two being described in this arc for the first time. The dominant calc-alkaline group ranges from primitive mafic magmas to rhyolite, and from low- to high-K in composition, and was generated from a mantle wedge with variable depletion. The high-Mg and adakitic rocks indicate periods of melting of the subducting slab and variable equilibration of the melts with mantle. The high-Zr group is interpreted as peralkaline and may have been related to extension of the arc.
Characterization of modern and historical seismic–tsunamic events and their global–societal impacts
Authors: Dilek Yildirim , Ogawa Yujiro , Okubo Yasukuni
Published: February 2021

Earthquakes and tsunamis are high-impact geohazard events that can be extremely destructive when they occur at large magnitudes and intensities, although their causes and potential locations are, for the most part, predictable within the framework of plate tectonics. Amongst the main reasons for their high impact include enormous numbers of casualties, extensive property damage in vast areas and significant social and economic disruption in urban settings where populous residential areas, global banking centres, industrial factories and critical facilities (nuclear power plants, dams) may be located. In order to reduce the impact of these geohazards, nations, societies, professional organizations and governments need to collaborate to prepare more effective seismic and tsunami risk assessments, disaster management plans, educational and training programmes for increased preparedness of the public, and strategic plans and objectives for capacity building, skill and knowledge transfer, and building of societal resilience. Improved building design and construction codes and emergency preparedness and evacuation plans should be part of disaster management plans in countries where destructive earthquakes and tsunamis have occurred. The rapid increases in population along coastal corridors in developing and developed countries is likely to escalate the social and economic impacts of these geohazards exponentially in the future. The chapters in this book present case studies of some of the most salient earthquake and tsunami events in historical and modern times, their origins and manifestations, and efforts and the most effective practices of risk assessment and disaster management implemented by various governments, international organizations and inter-governmental agencies following these events. New methods of computing probabilistic seismic hazard risks, delineating respect distance and damage zones along and across seismically active faults and recognizing tsunamigenic and submarine landslides on the seafloor are introduced. The conclusions presented in the chapters show that: (1) scientific understanding of the characteristics of seismically active faults is paramount; (2) increased local (community), national and global resilience is necessary to empower societal preparedness for earthquake and tsunami events; and, (3) all stakeholders, including policy-makers, scientists, local, state and national governments, media and world organizations (UNESCO, IUGS, GeoHazards International, Global Geodetic Observing System, National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program) must work together to disseminate accurate and timely information on geohazards, to develop effective legislation for risk reduction and to prepare realistic and practical hazard mitigation and management measures.
Nonclassical monocytes in cardiovascular physiology and disease
Authors: Tahir Sibgha , Steffens Sabine
Published: February 2021

Monocytes are a heterogeneous cell population of innate immune cells with distinct cell surface markers that help them in carrying out different functions. In humans, there are three well-characterized subsets, namely, classical (CD14++CD16−), intermediate (CD14++CD16+), and nonclassical (CD14+ CD16++) monocytes. There is an emerging focus on the not yet well explored nonclassical monocytes that maintain vascular integrity by slowly patrolling on the endothelium, reacting to inflammatory signals, and clearing cell debris. In this manner, they are not only crucial for vascular homeostasis but also play a vital role in wound healing and resolution of inflammation by linking innate to adaptive immune response. Although they have been shown to be protective, yet they are also associated with inflammatory disease progression. This short review will give an insight about the emerging role of nonclassical monocytes in vascular homeostasis, inflammation, and protection in the context of cardiovascular disease.
Temporal manipulation of KCC3 expression in juvenile or adult mice suggests irreversible developmental deficit in hereditary motor sensory neuropathy with agenesis of the corpus callosum
Authors: Flores Bianca , Delpire Eric
Published: February 2021

Hereditary motor sensory neuropathy (HMSN/ACC) with agenesis of the corpus callosum (ACC) has been documented in the French-derived populations of Charlevoix and Saguenay/Lac St. Jean in Quebec, Canada, as well as a few sporadic families throughout the world. HMSN/ACC occurs because of loss-of-function mutations in the potassium-chloride cotransporter 3 (KCC3). In HMSN/ACC, motor deficits occur early in infancy with rapid and continual deterioration of motor and sensory fibers into juvenile and adulthood. Genetic work in mice has demonstrated that the disease is caused by loss of KCC3 function in neurons and particularly parvalbumin (PV)-expressing neurons. Currently, there are no treatments or cures for HMSN/ACC other than pain management. As genetic counseling in Quebec has increased as a preventative strategy, most individuals with HSMN/ACC are now adults. The onset of the disease is unknown. In particular, it is unknown if the disease starts early during development and whether it can be reversed by restoring KCC3 function. In this study, we used two separate mouse models that when combined to the PV-CreERT2 tamoxifen-inducible system allowed us to 1) disrupt KCC3 expression in adulthood or juvenile periods; and 2) reintroduce KCC3 expression in mice that first develop with a nonfunctional cotransporter. We show that disrupting or reintroducing KCC3 in the adult mouse has no effect on locomotor behavior, indicating that expression of KCC3 is critical during embryonic development and/or the perinatal period and that once the disease has started, reexpressing a functional cotransporter fails to change the course of HMSN/ACC.
Interleukin-28A induces epithelial barrier dysfunction in CD patient-derived intestinal organoids
Authors: Xu Pan , Becker Heike , Elizalde Montserrat , Pierik Marieke , Masclee Ad , Jonkers Daisy
Published: February 2021

IL-28A levels were significantly increased in the plasma and biopsies from active patients with CD as compared with healthy subjects. IFN-γ exposure stimulated IL-28A expression in intestinal organoids. Partially mimicking the effect of IFN-γ, IL-28A impaired epithelial barrier function and disrupted junctional components through the activation of JAK-STAT1 signaling, whereas JAK1 inhibitor ameliorated the above-mentioned effects of IL-28A. These findings highlight the newly identified cytokine IL-28A as a novel contributor to CD pathogenesis and could be a putative target for CD treatment. We also provide new evidence for potential applications of JAK inhibition in CD therapy.
Cannabinoid Receptors in Metabolic Regulation and Diabetes
Authors: Rohbeck Elisabeth , Eckel Juergen , Romacho Tania
Published: February 2021

There is an urgent need for developing effective drugs to combat the obesity and Type 2 diabetes mellitus epidemics. The endocannabinoid system plays a major role in energy homeostasis. It comprises the cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2), endogenous ligands called endocannabinoids and their metabolizing enzymes. Because the CB1 receptor is overactivated in metabolic alterations, pharmacological blockade of the CB1 receptor arose as a promising candidate to treat obesity. However, because of the wide distribution of CB1 receptors in the central nervous system, their negative central effects halted further therapeutic use. Although the CB2 receptor is mostly peripherally expressed, its role in metabolic homeostasis remains unclear. This review discusses the potential of CB1 and CB2 receptors at the peripheral level to be therapeutic targets in metabolic diseases. We focus on the impact of pharmacological intervention and/or silencing on peripheral cannabinoid receptors in organs/tissues relevant for energy homeostasis. Moreover, we provide a perspective on novel therapeutic strategies modulating these receptors. Targeting CB1 with peripherally restricted antagonists, neutral antagonists, inverse agonists, or monoclonal antibodies could represent successful strategies. CB2 agonism has shown promising results at preclinical level. Beyond classic antagonism and agonism targeting orthosteric sites, the recently described crystal structures of CB1 and CB2 open new possibilities for therapeutic interventions with negative and positive allosteric modulators. The challenge of simultaneously targeting CB1 and CB2 might be possible by developing dual-steric ligands. The future will tell whether these promising strategies result in a renaissance of the cannabinoid receptors as therapeutic targets in metabolic diseases.
A Solution Approach to the Daily Dockworker Planning Problem at a Port Container Terminal
Authors: Vukicevic Bisevac Ivana , Vidic Natasa , Vukadinovic Katarina
Published: February 2021

This study focused on vital resources at port container terminals such as quay cranes and dockworkers. We studied the impact of incorporating the dockworker assignment problem (DWAP) into the quay crane assignment problem (QCAP). The aim of this study was to formulate and solve an integrated model for QCAP and DWAP, with the objective of minimizing the total costs of dockworkers, by optimizing workers’ assignment, so that the ships’ costs due to the time spent in the port are not increased. We proposed an integrated solution approach to the studied problem. Our proposed model has been validated on an adequate number of instances based on the real data. Obtained solutions were compared with the solutions obtained by the traditional sequential approach. It was demonstrated that, for all solved instances, our proposed integrated approach resulted in a reduction in the total costs of dockworkers. The major contribution of this study is that this is the first time that these two problems were modeled together. The obtained results show significant savings in the overall costs.
Contract Manufacturer’s Encroachment Strategy considering Fairness Concern in Supply Chain
Authors: Shi Jing
Published: February 2021

More and more contract manufacturers have started to establish their own brands besides providing manufacturing service for retailers who operate exclusive well-known brands. This paper studies the encroachment strategy of a contract manufacturer in a supply chain and the impact of fairness concern. Four scenarios are investigated by building game models: no fairness concern, the retailer’s fairness concern, the contract manufacturer’s fairness concern, and both members’ fairness concern. The results show that when there is no fairness concern, the contract manufacturer always has motivation to encroach. However, when there exists fairness concern, only when the reservation price is sufficiently high, the contract manufacturer will encroach. Fairness concern has certain strength to stop the contract manufacturer’s encroachment. When the reservation price is sufficiently low, the encroachment of the contract manufacturer benefits the retailer, or else it will harm the benefit of the retailer. The effect of fairness concern on profit margin and wholesale price decisions is opposite under different encroachment strategies. However, the fairness concern has no impact on the retail price of the private brand. Under encroachment strategy, contract manufacturer’s or both members’ fairness concerns have positive effect on the retailer’s profit in certain conditions. However, the fairness concern always decreases the contract manufacturer’s profit no matter what the form it is. Numerical examples show that it is best for the supply chain that both members have fairness concern under no encroachment. However, when the contract manufacturer has a private brand, it is best for the supply chain that no one has fairness concern when the advantageous inequity concern parameter is sufficiently low. When the advantageous inequity concern parameter is sufficiently high, it is best for the supply chain that both members have fairness concern.
The Nonlocal Fractal Integral Reverse Minkowski’s and Other Related Inequalities on Fractal Sets
Authors: Rahman Gauhar , Nisar Kottakkaran Sooppy , Golamankaneh Alireza Khalili
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we study the generalized Riemann–Liouville fractional integral for the functions with fractal support. The aim of this article is to investigate reverse Minkowski’s inequalities and certain other related inequalities by employing the generalized Riemann–Liouville fractional integral for the functions with fractal support.
Two‐Stage Optimization Method for the Bearing Layout of Isolated Structure
Authors: Dang Yu , Zhao GenXiong , Tian HongTu , Li Guobao
Published: February 2021

Design of seismic isolated building is often a highly iterative and tedious process due to the nonlinear behavior of the system, a large range of design parameters, and uncertainty of ground motions. It is needed to consider a comprehensive optimization procedure in the design of isolated buildings with optimized performances. This can be accomplished by applying a rigorous optimization technique. However, due to many factors affecting the performance of isolated buildings, possible solutions are abundant, and the optimal solution is difficult to obtain. In order to simplify the optimization process, an isolated building is always modeled as a shear‐type structure supported on the isolated layer, and the optimal results are the parameters of the isolated layer which could not be used as a practical design of the isolated structure. A two‐stage optimization method for designing isolated buildings as a practical and efficient guide is developed. In the first stage, a 3D isolated building model is adopted that takes into account of nonlinear behavior in building and isolation devices. The isolation devices are simplified as a kind of lead‐rubber bearing. The genetic algorithm is used to find the optimal parameters of the isolated layer. In the second stage, the location parameters of isolation bearing layout are optimized. Moreover, the cost of the isolation bearing layout should be as low as possible. An integer programming method is adopted to optimize the number of each type of isolator. Considering vertical bearing capacity of isolators and the minimum eccentricity ratio of the isolated layer, the optimal bearing layout of the isolated building can be obtained. The proposed method is demonstrated in a typical isolated building in China. The optimum bearing layout of the isolated building effectively suppresses the structural seismic responses, but the cost of the isolated layer might slightly increase.
Depressive Symptoms and Quality of Life in a Sample of Italian Women with a Diagnosis of Fibromyalgia: The Role of Attachment Styles
Authors: Sechi Cristina , Lucarelli Loredana , Vismara Laura
Published: February 2021

Background. Women with fibromyalgia (FM) commonly suffer from depression, pervasive fatigue, and pain. The attachment style has been hypothesized to be an important factor for understanding the experience of these symptoms. Therefore, the present cross-sectional study is aimed at investigating the effect of attachment styles in women with a diagnosis of FM on depressive symptoms and quality of life. Method. Participants were 453 Italian women with a physician’s diagnosis of FM with a mean age of 47 years (

SD
=
10.9

). To assess attachment styles, quality of life, and depressive symptoms, women responded, respectively, to the Relationship Questionnaire, the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire, and the Beck Depression Inventory II. Results. Our results showed that the incidence of depressive symptoms was elevated, with 59% of women reporting moderate to severe symptoms. Also, the statistical analyses showed that both preoccupied and avoidant/dismissing attachments were related with depression symptoms and low perception of QoL. Conclusions. Our study demonstrates that, when evaluating the impact of FM on the QoL of women, it is important to consider the complexity of the variables that are at play. Insecure attachment styles and depressive symptoms seem to increase the likelihood of the psycho-social-somatic malaise in FM women.
Analytical Solution for Differential and Nonlinear Integral Equations via

F

ϖ

e

-Suzuki Contractions in Modified

ϖ

e

-Metric-Like Spaces
Authors: Hammad Hasanen A. , De la Sen Manuel , Aydi Hassen
Published: February 2021

The aim of this manuscript is to present a new space, namely, a modified

ϖ

e

-metric-like space, and we establish some related fixed point results using extended

F

ϖ

e

-Suzuki and generalized

F

ϖ

e

-Suzuki contractions on the mentioned space. Here, we support our theoretical consequences in two ways: the first one consists of presenting illustrative examples and the second one consists of finding analytical solutions for some integral and differential equations in the context of the mentioned space.
Combined Fuzzy Clustering and Chan_Vese Model for Multicolor Gradual Ochotona curzoniae Image Segmentation
Authors: Chen Haiyan , Zhang Huaqing
Published: February 2021

Precise segmentation of Ochotona curzoniae images collected in a nature scene is the basis of Ochotona curzoniae recognition and behavior analysis. Ochotona curzoniae images have the characteristics of diversity and graduality of target colors and complex background. The method of combined Chan_Vese model and k-means clustering algorithm is used to segment the multicolor images, but when k-means clustering algorithm is used to cluster the color of multicolor images, the manner of hard classification is adopted, without considering the color-gradient feature. As a resolution to this problem, a new approach of the Chan_Vese model in combination with fuzzy C-means clustering is proposed in the present paper. The proposed model utilises fuzzy C-means clustering to cluster the pixels inside the evolution curve of the Chan_Vese model, classifying the pixels into a certain color cluster with a certain probability to describe the image color gradual characteristics. By fuzzy C-means clustering, several cluster centers can be obtained, and the values of cluster centers can be used to replace internal fitting values of the Chan_Vese model. In this way, the problem that the Chan_Vese model cannot segment images with intensity inhomogeneity is overcome. Furthermore, the global Heaviside function is replaced by the local Heaviside function to suppress the influence of the background on image segmentation. The experimental results of Ochotona curzoniae images segmentation demonstrate that the proposed model can more accurately locate the target contour and has a higher Dice similarity coefficient, Jaccard Similarity, and segmentation accuracy.