bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Superconsistent Estimation of Points of Impact in Non-Parametric Regression with Functional Predictors
Authors: Poß Dominik , Liebl Dominik , Kneip Alois , Eisenbarth Hedwig , Wager Tor D. , Barrett Lisa Feldman
Published: July 2020

Predicting scalar outcomes by using functional predictors is a classical problem in functional data analysis. In many applications, however, only specific locations or time points of the functional predictors have an influence on the outcome. Such ‘points of impact’ are typically unknown and must be estimated in addition to estimating the usual model components. We show that our points-of-impact estimator enjoys a superconsistent rate of convergence and does not require knowledge or pre-estimates of the unknown model components. This remarkable result facilitates the subsequent estimation of the remaining model components as shown in the theoretical part, where we consider the case of non-parametric models and the practically relevant case of generalized linear models. The finite sample properties of our estimators are assessed by means of a simulation study. Our methodology is motivated by data from a psychological experiment in which the participants were asked to rate their emotional state continuously while watching an affective video eliciting a varying intensity of emotional reactions.
Post‐transplant survey to assess patient experiences with donor‐derived HCV infection
Authors: Prakash Katya , Ramirez‐Sanchez Claudia , Ramirez Sydney I. , Logan Cathy , Law Nancy , Mekeel Kristin , Pretorius Victor , Aslam Saima
Published: July 2020

Background

Despite increased utilization of hepatitis C virus‐infected (HCV+) organs for transplantation into HCV‐uninfected recipients, there is lack of standardization in HCV‐related patient education/consent and limited data on financial and social impact on patients.

Methods

We conducted a survey on patients with donor‐derived HCV infection at our center transplanted between 4/1/2017 and 11/1/2019 to assess: why patients chose to accept HCV+ organ(s), the adequacy of their pre‐transplant HCV education and informed consent process, financial issues related to copays after discharge, and social challenges they faced.

Results

Among 49 patients surveyed, transplanted organs included heart (n = 19), lung (n = 9), kidney (n = 11), liver (n = 4), heart/kidney (n = 4), and liver/kidney (n = 2). Many recipients accepted an HCV‐viremic (HCV‐V) organ due to perceived reduction in waitlist time (n = 33) and/or trust in their physician's recommendation (n = 29). Almost all (n = 47) felt that pre‐transplant education and consent was appropriate. Thirty patients had no copay for direct‐acting antivirals (DAA) for HCV, including 21 with household income <$20 000; seven had copays of <$100 and one had a copay >$1000. Two patients reported feeling isolated due to HCV infection and eight reported higher than anticipated medication costs. Patients’ biggest concern was potential HCV transmission to partners (n = 18) and family/friends (n = 15). Overall almost all (n = 47) patients reported a positive experience with HCV‐V organ transplantation.

Conclusion

We demonstrate that real‐world patient experiences surrounding HCV‐V organ transplantation have been favorable. Almost all patients report comprehensive HCV‐related pre‐transplant consent and education. Additionally, medication costs and social isolation/exclusion were not barriers to the use of these organs.
Washed red cells: theory and practice
Authors: Cardigan Rebecca , New Helen V. , Tinegate Hazel , Thomas Stephen
Published: July 2020

Washing of red cells is sometimes performed to reduce allergic reactions due to contaminating plasma proteins or to reduce the concentration of potassium accumulating in the supernatant of red cells during storage as an alternative to transfusion of fresher red cells in patients at risk of hyperkalaemia. There are a variety of methods for washing red cells, and the laboratory data suggest that variables such as age of red cell before washing, washing method and solution, storage medium and length of storage time after washing can all effect the final red cell quality. Studies suggest that washing removes 90–95% plasma, but the proportion of units below 0·05 mg/dl IgA (equivalent to IgA deficient) is variable dependent upon methods used. Although potassium levels are reduced immediately following washing, the rate of leakage following subsequent storage is method‐dependent, requiring careful consideration of shelf life if potassium reduction is the goal. Other markers of red cell quality such as haemolysis are negatively impacted by washing so a reduced shelf life compared to standard red cells is appropriate, especially following irradiation. Data from animal models and clinical studies on possible additional benefits of washing, such as reduced lung or kidney injury, are mixed, ranging from some benefit to some harm, and further studies are warranted.
Traumatic medial luxation of the triceps brachii tendon with medial subluxation of the elbow joint in a dog
Authors: Sasaki Akari , Honnami Muneki , Mochizuki Manabu
Published: July 2020

Objective

To describe the surgical reduction of luxation of the triceps brachii tendon in a dog.

Animal

One 2.5‐year‐old 2.58 kg castrated male toy poodle.

Study design

Clinical case report.

Methods

The dog displayed intermittent, non–weight bearing lameness of the right forelimb for approximately 18 months before presenting at the veterinary medical center. Medial subluxation of the right elbow joint was detected by palpation. The Campbell test was consistent with an increased range of motion during supination. At ultrasonographic examination, medial luxation of the triceps brachii tendon was noted, whereas collateral ligaments appeared normal. No skeletal deformities were found on radiographs of the right forelimb. The luxation of the triceps brachii tendon was surgically corrected with antirotational suture, a stopper pin, medial retinaculum release, and imbrication of the lateral retinaculum.

Results

The right triceps brachii tendon and elbow joint were successfully reduced. Gait returned to normal by 55 days postoperatively. No implant failure or recurrence were observed 3.5 years after surgery.

Conclusion

Surgical reduction of a luxation of the triceps brachii tendon in a dog resolved lameness and restored the range of motion of the affected elbow, leading to good long‐term outcome.
Simplified Predictive Model for Downhole Pressure Surges During Tripping Operations Using Power Law Drilling Fluids
Authors: Krishna Shwetank , Ridha Syahrir , Vasant Pandian , Ilyas Suhaib Umer , Ofei Titus Ntow
Published: July 2020

Surge/swab pressure is a crucial parameter that provokes well-control problems such as fluid loss, fractured formations, fluid influx, and kick. Thus, a precise estimation of differential pressure is required to evade any unforeseen drilling difficulties. The existing predictive models are based on narrow-slot approximation methods and consider the effect of drilling string axial movement on downhole pressure surges. However, it ignores the impact on the boundaries of the annular fluid velocity zone by the tripping velocity. In this research, a simplified model is developed using the flow velocity profile generated in the annulus by the tripping operation and the concentric annular Couette fluid flow phenomena for power-law fluid. A comparative study is performed with the existing analytical models and the experimental data to validate the developed model. The obtained results are convincingly in good agreement with the analytical and experimental data. A parametric study is performed to identify the effect of various parameters on surge/swab pressure. It is found that the diameter ratio has a significant impact on pressure differential with the increase in the tripping velocity. The fluid behavior index exhibits a considerable effect, and fluid consistency index shows a minor effect on the surge pressure gradient. The simplified developed model requires less numerical analysis to determine the outcomes for varying industrial applications, especially petroleum drilling operations.
Study on Limit Load of Orthotropic Cylindrical Pipe Under Different Combined Load Conditions
Authors: Xu Min , Wen Jian-bin , Zhao Yu-jie , Zhou Chang-Yu , He Xiao-hua
Published: July 2020

In engineering, many pressure pipes are made of steels with good plasticity, which are subject to internal pressure, axial force, shear force, bending moment, torsion moment or their combined loads. The plastic limit load is an important indicator of the load capacity of pressure pipe. According to Hill yield function, the theoretical solutions of limit load of orthotropic cylindrical pipe under various combined loads under internal pressure, axial force, shear force, torsion moment, and bending moment have been derived on the basis of elastic perfectly plastic constitutive model. The effects of radial stress on different combined limit loads of cylindrical pipe are explored and these results show that the radial stress should be considered about the limit load calculation especially for thick-walled cylindrical pipe. The interactions of various load combination are analyzed in detail and drawn with the interaction curves. For isotropic cylindrical pipe, the limit load increases with the yield strength. For the orthotropic cylindrical pipe, the limit loads of cylindrical pipe under axial force, bending moment, shear force, and torsion moment without internal pressure are only related to the axial yield strength. The limit bending moment is mainly dependent on the axial yield strength when internal pressure is lower, while the impact of the circumferential yield strength of orthotropic cylindrical pipe is obvious when internal pressure is some higher. When the axial yield strength of orthotropic cylindrical pipe is the same, the circumferential yield strength can enhance the limit axial load, limit torsion moment, and limit shear load. Under the different load conditions including internal pressure, bending moment, axial force, shear force, and torsion moment or their combined loads, the relation of limit bending moment with yield strength ratio is diverse, which is decide by the load combination, the circumferential yield strength, and the axial yield strength.
Part-Scale Finite Element Modeling of the Selective Laser Melting Process With Layer-Wise Adaptive Remeshing for Thermal History and Porosity Prediction
Authors: Olleak Alaa , Xi Zhimin
Published: July 2020

Predicting the part thermal history during the selective laser melting (SLM) process is critical to understand the influence of the process parameters to the part quality. Existing finite element based thermal analysis is mainly associated with simplifications in mesh configuration, heat source model, and domain size. The proposed work presents an efficient adaptive remeshing technique that enables part-scale SLM process simulations and helps reduce model size without sacrificing accuracy. The proposed work enables the part-scale simulation computationally efficient using existing commercial solvers. In this paper, the SLM process simulation for an entire part was developed considering different process parameters. The model predicts the influence of the process parameters on part thermal history, melt pool statistics, and lack-of-fusion porosity. The predicted results find an agreement with the experimental results in literature. Furthermore, the remeshing technique is demonstrated to be more computationally efficient than the existing element death and birth approach and also shows clear advantages compared with existing adaptive remeshing approaches.
Tool Path Optimization for Robotic Surface Machining by Using Sampling-Based Motion Planning Algorithms
Authors: Lu Lei , Zhang Jiong , Tian Xiaoqing , Han Jiang , Wang Hao
Published: July 2020

This paper develops a tool path optimization method for robotic surface machining by sampling-based motion planning algorithms. In the surface machining process, the tool-tip position needs to strictly follow the tool path curve and the posture of the tool axis should be limited in a certain range. But the industrial robot has at least six degrees-of-freedom (Dof) and has redundant Dofs for surface machining. Therefore, the tool motion of surface machining can be optimized using the redundant Dofs considering the tool path constraints and limits of the tool axis orientation. Due to the complexity of the problem, the sampling-based motion planning method has been chosen to find the solution, which randomly explores the configuration space of the robot and generates a discrete path of valid robot state. During the solving process, the joint space of the robot is chosen as the configuration space of the problem and the constraints for the tool-tip following requirements are in the operation space. Combined with general collision checking, the limited region of the tool axis vector is used to verify the state’s validity of the configuration space. In the optimization process, the sum of the path length of each joint of the robot is set as the optimization objective. The algorithm is developed based on the open motion planning library (OMPL), which contains the state-of-the-art sampling-based motion planners. Finally, two examples are used to demonstrate the effiectiveness and optimality of the method.
Methanol Production by “
Methylacidiphilum fumariolicum
” SolV under Different Growth Conditions
Authors: Hogendoorn Carmen , Pol Arjan , Nuijten Guylaine H. L. , Op den Camp Huub J. M.
Published: July 2020

The production of methanol, an important chemical, is completely dependent on natural gas. The current multistep chemical process uses high temperature and pressure to convert methane in natural gas to methanol. In this study, we used the methanotroph “
Methylacidiphilum fumariolicum
” SolV to achieve continuous methanol production from methane as the substrate. The production rate was highly dependent on the growth rate of this microorganism, and high conversion efficiencies were obtained. Using microorganisms for the production of methanol might enable the use of more sustainable sources of methane, such as biogas, rather than natural gas.
MapA, a Second Large RTX Adhesin Conserved across the Pseudomonads, Contributes to Biofilm Formation by Pseudomonas fluorescens
Authors: Collins Alan J. , Pastora Alexander B. , Smith T. Jarrod , O’Toole George A.
Published: July 2020

Adhesins are critical for the formation and maturation of bacterial biofilms. We identify a second adhesin in
P. fluorescens
, called MapA, which appears to play a role in biofilm maturation and whose regulation is distinct from the previously reported LapA adhesin, which is critical for biofilm initiation. Analysis of bacterial adhesins shows that LapA-like and MapA-like adhesins are found broadly in pseudomonads and related organisms, indicating that the utilization of different suites of adhesins may be broadly important in the
Gammaproteobacteria
.
Swine Promyelocytic Leukemia Isoform II Inhibits Pseudorabies Virus Infection by Suppressing Viral Gene Transcription in Promyelocytic Leukemia Nuclear Bodies
Authors: Yu Cuilian , Xu Aotian , Lang Yue , Qin Chao , Wang Mengdong , Yuan Xiufang , Sun Shengfu , Feng Wenhai , Gao Chao , Chen Jinwen , Zhang Rui , Tang Jun
Published: July 2020

PML-NBs are nuclear sites that mediate the antiviral restriction of alphaherpesvirus gene expression and replication. However, the contribution of each PML isoform to this activity of PML-NBs is not well characterized. Using PRV and its natural host swine cells as a system, we have discovered that the unique C terminus of sPML isoform II is required for PML-NBs to inhibit PRV infection by directly engaging in repression of viral gene transcription. Our study not only confirms in swine cells that PML-NBs have an antiviral function but also presents a mechanism to suggest that PML-NBs inhibit viral infection in an isoform specific manner.
Laryngeal granular cell tumour: a very rare diagnosis for a child presenting with hoarse voice in the UK
Authors: Hogan Christopher , Acharya Vikas , Tsitsiou Yvonne , Taghi Ali
Published: July 2020

We present a rare case of a paediatric laryngeal granular cell tumour (GCT) of the vocal cord. GCTs are rare clinical entities, thought to arise from Schwann cells. There are only a handful of paediatric laryngeal GCTs in the literature, and therefore, little is known regarding their natural history or preferred management strategies. In this case report, we discuss the incidence, aetiopathogenesis, presentation and management of a laryngeal GCT in an 11-year-old girl, who presented with dysphonia. We believe that this case will aid otolaryngologists in the management of paediatric patients with the common dysphonia.
Occupational distribution of metabolic syndrome prevalence and incidence differs by sex and is not explained by age and health behavior: results from 75 000 Dutch workers from 40 occupational groups
Authors: van Zon Sander K R , Amick III Benjamin C , de Jong Trynke , Brouwer Sandra , Bültmann Ute
Published: July 2020

Introduction

This study examines the association between 40 occupational groups and prevalence and incidence of metabolic syndrome (MetS), separately for male and female workers, and whether age and health behaviors can explain the association.

Research design and methods

Data from 74 857 Lifelines Cohort and Biobank Study participants were used to regress occupational group membership, coded by Statistics Netherlands, on the prevalence and incidence of MetS using logistic and Cox regression analyses. MetS diagnosis was based on physical examinations, blood analysis, and recorded medication use. Information on age, smoking status, physical activity, diet and alcohol consumption was acquired using questionnaires.

Results

Baseline MetS prevalence was 17.5% for males and 10.6% for females. During a median 3.8 years of follow-up, MetS incidence was 7.8% for males and 13.2% for females. One occupational group was associated with an increased MetS risk in both sexes. Six additional occupational groups had an increased risk for MetS among men, four among women. Highest risks were found for male ‘stationary plant and machine operators’ (HR: 1.94; 95% CI 1.26 to 3.00) and female ‘food preparation assistants’ (HR: 1.80; 95% CI 1.01 to 3.22).

Conclusions

Findings suggest that occupational group matters for men and women in MetS development, and that differences in MetS prevalence across occupations are not merely a reflection of selection of metabolically unhealthy workers into specific occupations. The striking sex differences in the occupational distribution of MetS indicate that preventive measures should, with some exceptions, target men and women separately.
Realist Evaluation of Autism ServiCe Delivery (RE-ASCeD): which diagnostic pathways work best, for whom and in what context? Protocol for a rapid realist review
Authors: Abrahamson Vanessa , Zhang Wenjing , Wilson Patricia , Farr William , Male Ian
Published: July 2020

Introduction

The National Health Service (NHS) Long-Term Plan (2019) acknowledges that children and young people with suspected autism wait too long for diagnostic assessment and sets out to reduce waiting times. However, diagnostic pathways vary with limited evidence on what model works best, for whom and in what circumstances. The National Autism Plan for Children (2003) recommended that assessment should be completed within 13 weeks but referral to diagnosis can take as long as 799 days.

This Rapid Realist Review (RRR) is the first work package in a national programme of research: a Realist Evaluation of Autism ServiCe Delivery (RE-ASCeD). We explore how particular approaches may deliver high-quality and timely autism diagnostic services for children with possible autism; high quality is defined as compliant with National Institute for Heath and Care Excellence (2011) guidelines, and timely as a pathway lasting no more than one calendar year, based on previous work.

Methods and analysis

RRR is a well-established approach to synthesising evidence within a compressed timeframe to identify models of service delivery leading to desired outcomes. RRR works backwards from intended outcomes, identified by NICE guidelines and the NHS England Long-Term Plan. The focus is a clearly defined intervention (the diagnostic pathway), associated with specific outcomes (high quality and timely), within a particular set of parameters (Autism and Child & Adolescent Mental Health services in the UK). Our Expert Stakeholder Group consists of policymakers, content experts and knowledge users with a wide range of experience to supplement, tailor and expedite the process. The RRR is consistent with Realist And Meta-narrative Evidence Syntheses: Evolving Standards (RAMESES) and includes identifying the research question, searching for information, quality appraisal, data extraction, synthesising the evidence, validation of findings with experts and dissemination.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval not required. Findings will inform the wider RE-ASCeD evaluation and be reported to NHS England.

Trial registration number

NCT04422483. This protocol relates to Pre-results.
High INtensity Interval Training In pATiEnts with intermittent claudication (INITIATE): protocol for a multicentre, proof-of-concept, prospective interventional study
Authors: Pymer Sean , Harwood Amy , Ibeggazene Said , McGregor Gordon , Huang Chao , Twiddy Maureen , Nicholls Adam R , Ingle Lee , Carroll Sean , Long Judith , Rooms Marjorie , Chetter I C
Published: July 2020

Introduction

The first-line recommended treatment for patients with intermittent claudication (IC) is a supervised exercise programme (SEP), which includes a minimum of 2-hours of exercise per week over a 12-week period. However, provision, uptake and adherence rates for these SEP programmes are poor, with time constraints cited as a common participant barrier. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is more time-efficient and therefore has the potential to overcome this barrier. However, evidence is lacking for the role of HIIT in those with IC. This proof-of-concept study aims to consider the safety, feasibility, tolerability and acceptability of a HIIT programme for patients with IC.

Methods and analysis

This multicentre, single-group, prospective, interventional feasibility study will recruit 40 patients with IC, who will complete 6 weeks of HIIT, 3 times a week. HIIT will involve a supervised programme of 10×1 min high-intensity cycling intervals at 85%–90% peak power output (PPO), interspaced with 10×1 min low intensity intervals at 20%–25% PPO. PPO will be determined from a baseline cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) and it is intended that patients will achieve ≥85% of maximum heart rate from CPET, by the end of the second HIIT interval. Primary outcome measures are safety (occurrence of adverse events directly related to the study), programme feasibility (including participant eligibility, recruitment and completion rates) and HIIT tolerability (ability to achieve and maintain the required intensity). Secondary outcomes include patient acceptability, walking distance, CPET cardiorespiratory fitness measures and quality of life outcomes.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was obtained via a local National Health Service research ethics committee (Bradford Leeds – 18/YH/0112) and recruitment began in August 2019 and will be completed in October 2020. Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at international conferences and are expected to inform a future pilot randomised controlled trial of HIIT versus usual-care SEPs.

Trial registration number

NCT04042311; Pre-results.
Broad Spectrum project: factors determining the quality of antibiotic use in primary care: an observational study protocol from Italy
Authors: Kurotschka Peter Konstantin , Serafini Alice , Massari Marco , Da Cas Roberto , Figueiras Adolfo , Forte Viviana , Moro Maria Francesca , Massidda Matteo , Contu Federico , Minerba Luigi , Marcias Maurizio , Nardelli Marco , Perra Alessandra , Carta Mauro Giovanni , Spila Alegiani Stefania
Published: July 2020

Introduction

The overuse of antibiotics is causing worldwide spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Compared with other countries, Italy has both high antibiotic consumption rates and high rates of AMR. Due to the fact that around 90% of antibiotics are prescribed by general practitioners (GPs), this study aims to measure the impact of knowledge, attitudes and sociodemographic and workplace-related factors on the quality of antibiotic prescriptions filled by GPs in the Italian Region of Sardinia.

Methods and analysis

Knowledge, attitude, sociodemographic and workplace-related factors deemed to influence physicians prescribing behaviour will be evaluated in a cross-sectional study conducted among all GPs of the Italian Region of Sardinia (n=1200). A knowledge and attitudes questionnaire (Knowledge and Attitudes on Antibiotics and Resistance - Italian version: ITA-KAAR) accompanied by a sociodemographic form will be linked to drug prescription data reimbursed by the National Health System. European Surveillance of Antibiotic Consumption quality indicators for outpatient antibiotic use will be calculated from drug prescription records. Every GP will be deemed to have demonstrated an adequate quality of prescriptions of antibiotics if half of the indicator score plus one is better than the median of the region. A multivariate Poisson regression model with robust variance estimation will be used to evaluate the impact of the determinants of antibiotic prescriptions on the actual prescribing quality of each physician.

Ethics and dissemination

The project has been approved by the ethics committee of the Regional Health Trust of Sardinia (176/2019/CE, 24 September 2019). The results will be useful to inform evidence-based interventions to tackle irrational antibiotic use in the community.
From kamishibai card to key card: a family-targeted quality improvement initiative to reduce paediatric central line-associated bloodstream infections
Authors: Kamity Ranjith , Grella Melissa , Kim Maureen L , Akerman Meredith , Quintos-Alagheband Maria Lyn
Published: July 2020

Background

Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) are major contributors to preventable harm in the inpatient paediatric setting. Despite multiple guidelines to reduce CLABSI, sustaining reliable central line maintenance bundle compliance remains elusive. We identified frontline and family engagement as key drivers for this initiative. The baseline CLABSI rate for all our paediatric inpatient units (January 2016–January 2017) was 1.71/1000 central line days with maintenance bundle compliance at 87.9% (monthly range 44%–100%).

Objective

To reduce CLABSI by increasing central line maintenance bundle compliance to greater than 90% using kamishibai card (K-card) audits and family ‘key card’ education.

Methods

We transitioned our central line maintenance bundle audits from checklists to directly observed K-card audits. K-cards list the central line maintenance bundle elements to be reviewed with frontline staff. Key cards are cue cards developed using a plain-language summary of CLABSI K-cards and used by frontline staff to educate families. Key cards were distributed to families of children with central lines to simultaneously engage patients, families and frontline staff after a successful implementation of the K-card audit process. A survey was used to obtain feedback from families.

Results

In the postintervention period (February 2017–December 2019), our CLABSI rate was 0.63/1000 central line days, and maintenance bundle compliance improved to 97.1% (monthly range 86%–100%, p<0.001). Of the 45 family surveys distributed, 20 (44%) were returned. Nineteen respondents (95%) reported being extremely satisfied with the key card programme and provided positive comments.

Conclusion

Combining the key card programme with K-card audits was associated with improved maintenance bundle compliance and a reduction in CLABSI. This programme has the potential for use in multiple healthcare improvement initiatives.
Systematic review of motor control and somatosensation assessment tests for the ankle
Authors: Bertrand-Charette Michaël , Dambreville Charline , Bouyer Laurent J , Roy Jean-Sébastien
Published: July 2020

Background/Aim

Ankle sprains are frequent musculoskeletal injuries that can lead to sensorimotor deficits provoking long-term instability at the ankle joint. A broad variety of clinical tests currently exist to assess sensorimotor processing, and are commonly clinically referred to as proprioceptive tests. However, there is a discrepancy in the use of the term proprioception when looking at the main outcome of these tests. As identifying specific deficits is important for motor recovery, it is critical for clinicians to select the most appropriate tests.

Methods

A systematic review of four databases was performed to provide an up-to-date review of the psychometric properties of available tests referred to as proprioceptive tests. Seventy-nine articles on eight ankle proprioceptive tests were included and critically appraised. Data on validity, reliability and responsiveness were extracted from the included articles and synthesised. The tests reviewed were then divided into two categories based on their main outcome: motor control or somatosensation.

Results

Strong evidence showed that theStar Excursion Balance Test, a motor control test, is capable of differentiating between stable and unstable ankles. Moderate evidence suggests that somatosensation tests, such asJoint Position Sense, are also valid and reliable, but their responsiveness has yet to be evaluated.

Conclusions

Together, these findings indicate that theStar Excursion Balance Testcan be used in the clinic to assess motor control based on its excellent psychometric properties. However, as ankle stability control involves complex sensorimotor interactions, care has to be taken regarding the use of this test as a specific tool for proprioception assessment.
Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 activity, genetics and calcific aortic valve stenosis in humans
Authors: Perrot Nicolas , Thériault Sébastien , Rigade Sidwell , Chen Hao Yu , Dina Christian , Martinsson Andreas , Boekholdt S Matthijs , Capoulade Romain , Le Tourneau Thierry , Messika-Zeitoun David , Engert James C , Wareham Nicholas J , Clavel Marie-Annick , Pibarot Philippe , Smith J Gustav , Schott Jean Jacques , Mathieu Patrick , Bossé Yohan , Thanassoulis George , Arsenault Benoit J
Published: July 2020

Background

Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) activity has been shown to predict calcific aortic valve stenosis (CAVS) outcomes. Our objective was to test the association between plasma Lp-PLA2 activity and genetically elevated Lp-PLA2 mass/activity with CAVS in humans.

Methods and results

Lp-PLA2 activity was measured in 890 patients undergoing cardiac surgery, including 476 patients undergoing aortic valve replacement for CAVS and 414 control patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting. After multivariable adjustment, Lp-PLA2 activity was positively associated with the presence of CAVS (OR=1.21 (95% CI 1.04 to 1.41) per SD increment). We selected four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) at thePLA2G7locus associated with either Lp-PLA2 mass or activity (rs7756935, rs1421368, rs1805017 and rs4498351). Genetic association studies were performed in eight cohorts: Quebec-CAVS (1009 cases/1017 controls), UK Biobank (1350 cases/349 043 controls), European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition-Norfolk (504 cases/20 307 controls), Genetic Epidemiology Research on Aging (3469 cases/51 723 controls), Malmö Diet and Cancer Study (682 cases/5963 controls) and three French cohorts (3123 cases/6532 controls), totalling 10 137 CAVS cases and 434 585 controls. A fixed-effect meta-analysis using the inverse-variance weighted method revealed that none of the four SNPs was associated with CAVS (OR=0.99 (95% CI 0.96 to 1.02, p=0.55) for rs7756935, 0.97 (95% CI 0.93 to 1.01, p=0.11) for rs1421368, 1.00 (95% CI 1.00 to 1.01, p=0.29) for rs1805017, and 1.00 (95% CI 0.97 to 1.04, p=0.87) for rs4498351).

Conclusions

Higher Lp-PLA2 activity is significantly associated with the presence of CAVS and might represent a biomarker of CAVS in patients with heart disease. Results of our genetic association study suggest that Lp-PLA2 is however unlikely to represent a causal risk factor or therapeutic target for CAVS.
BCG vaccine and COVID-19: implications for infection prophylaxis and cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Koti Madhuri , Morales Alvaro , Graham Charles H , Siemens David Robert
Published: July 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has killed over 400 000 people globally. Ecological evidence indicates that countries with national universal BCG vaccination programs for tuberculosis (TB) prevention have a much lower incidence of severe COVID-19 and mortality compared with those that do not have such programs. BCG is a century old vaccine used for TB prevention via infant/childhood vaccination in lowto middle-income countries with high infection prevalence rate and is known to reduce all-cause neonatal mortality. BCG remains the standard immunotherapy treatment for patients with high-risk non-muscle invasive bladder cancer globally for more than 44 years. Several trials are, therefore, investigating BCG as a prophylactic against COVID-19 in healthcare workers and the elderly. In this commentary, we discuss the potential mechanisms that may underlie BCG associated heterologous protection with a focus on tertiary lymphoid structure (TLS) organogenesis. Given the significance of TLSs in mucosal immunity, their association with positive prognosis and response to immune checkpoint blockade with a critical role of Type I interferon (IFN-1) in inducing these, we also discuss potentiating TLS formation as a promising approach to enhance anti-tumor immunity. We propose that lessons learned from BCG immunotherapy success could be applied to not only augment such microbe-based therapeutics but also lead to similar adjunctive IFN-1 activating approaches to improve response to immune checkpoint blockade therapy in cancer.
Diffusion through sodium and polymer enhanced bentonites exposed to dilute and aggressive solutions
Authors: Tong Shan , Sample-Lord Kristin M. , Bohnhoff Gretchen L.
Published: July 2020

Chemical incompatibility between sodium bentonite (NaB) and aggressive waste solutions has led to the development of enhanced bentonites for geoenvironmental applications. Enhanced bentonites, such as bentonite-polyacrylic-acid composite (BPC), have been shown to maintain low enough values of hydraulic conductivity (e.g., <10−10 m/s) for diffusion to be the dominant transport mechanism, even upon exposure to aggressive solutions. However, quantification of diffusion properties of enhanced bentonites has been limited. In this study, apparent diffusion coefficients (Da) for chloride were measured for NaB and polymer-enhanced NaBs. Diffusion tests were performed using dilute (5 mmol/L) to aggressive (100 mmol/L) calcium chloride (CaCl2) solutions. In addition, scanning electron microscopy was performed to support interpretation of diffusion results. For CaCl2 solutions <100 mmol/L, Da values for BPC were lower (by approximately half an order of magnitude) than Da values for NaB. However, differences in Da due to polymer enhancement diminished as CaCl2 concentration increased. Predicted steady-state flux through a BPC geosynthetic clay liner (GCL) was dominated by diffusion and up to two orders of magnitude lower than flux through an NaB GCL. These results provide insight regarding diffusion in polymer-enhanced bentonites and expected performance of containment barriers with enhanced-bentonite GCLs.
Early Cretaceous Xiuyan adakitic granitoids in the Liaodong Peninsula, eastern China: petrogenesis and implications for lithospheric thinning of the North China Craton
Authors: Dong Yang , Liu Jingdang , Zhang Yanfei , Dou Shiyong , Li Yanbin , Liu Su , Liu Guohao , Song Yunhang
Published: July 2020

Mesozoic magmatic rocks are widely distributed in the North China Craton (NCC) and are crucial to understanding the timing, location, and geodynamic mechanisms of lithospheric thinning of the NCC. In this study, we report geochronological, petrogeochemical, and Lu–Hf isotopic data for adakitic granitoids from different parts of Xiuyan pluton in the Liaodong Peninsula, aiming to constrain their magma sources, petrogenesis, and tectonic implications. The adakites are metaluminous to weakly peraluminous and are classified as high-K calc-alkaline I-type granite with Early Cretaceous zircon U–Pb ages of 129–126 Ma. They exhibit adakite-like geochemical characteristics, such as high Sr content and low Yb and Y contents, coupled with high Sr/Y and no pronounced Eu anomalies. They are enriched in Rb, U, and light rare-earth elements and are depleted in Ta, Nb, P, and Ti. The adakites from the eastern part of the pluton have low εHf(t) values (–8.5 to –4.0) with old TDM2ages (1.57–1.31 Ga), indicating they were derived from the lower crust containing juvenile mantle-derived materials. In contrast, adakites from the northern part of the pluton have lower εHf(t) values (–19.7 to –16.6) with older TDM2ages (2.21–2.03 Ga), indicating that they were derived mainly from an ancient crust. Our results show that both adakitic magmas were derived from partial melting of delaminated lower crust. Their relatively high MgO and Ni contents and Mg# values indicate that the melts interacted with mantle peridotites. The lower crust delamination beneath the Liaodong Peninsula resulted from paleo-Pacific plate subduction during the Early Cretaceous, which resulted in thinning of Mesozoic crust in the Xiuyan area.
A New Deeply Convolutional Neural Network Architecture for Retinal Blood Vessel Segmentation
Authors: Mohammedhasan Mali , Uğuz Harun
Published: July 2020

This paper proposes an incoming Deep Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) architecture for segmenting retinal blood vessels automatically from fundus images. Automatic segmentation performs a substantial role in computer-aided diagnosis of retinal diseases; it is of considerable significance as eye diseases as well as some other systemic diseases give rise to perceivable pathologic changes. Retinal blood vessel segmentation is challenging because of the excessive changes in the morphology of the vessels on a noisy background. Previous deep learning-based supervised methods suffer from the insufficient use of low-level features which is advantageous in semantic segmentation tasks. The proposed architecture makes use of both high-level features and low-level features to segment retinal blood vessels. The major contribution of the proposed architecture concentrates on two important factors; the first in its supplying of extremely modularized network architecture of aggregated residual connections which enable us to copy the learned layers from the shallower model and developing additional layers to identity mapping. The second is to improve the utilization of computing resources within the network. This is achieved through a skillfully crafted design that allows for increased depth and width of the network while maintaining the stability of its computational budget. Experimental results show the effectiveness of using aggregated residual connections in segmenting retinal vessels more accurately and clearly. Compared to the best existing methods, the proposed method outperformed other existing methods in different measures, comprised less false positives at fine vessels, and caressed more clear lines with sufficient details like the human annotator.
Algorithm and VLSI Architecture Designs of a Lossless Embedded Compression Encoder for HD Video Coding Systems
Authors: Lee Yu-Hsuan , Kuei Cheng-Hung , Kao Yue-Zhan , Fan Jiang Shih-Song
Published: July 2020

The demand for visual quality has been advanced by high display resolutions and frame rates. Nevertheless, these two issues have caused tremendous memory bandwidth in a video coding system. In this study, an efficient lossless embedded compression (EC) algorithm is proposed to save memory bandwidth, while keeping visual quality. The proposed lossless EC algorithm incorporates three core techniques: tree partition, half-pixel prediction and group-based binary coding. Tree partition classifies a [Formula: see text] block into Trunk, Branch and Leaf. With tree partition, half-pixel prediction produces individual residues for Trunk, Branch and Leaf. Group-based binary coding converts theses residues to efficient codewords. The lossless compression ratio (CR) of the proposed EC is as high as 2.24 on average, saving memory bandwidth by 55.4%. This EC algorithm is implemented using CMOS 0.18[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m technology. The maximum throughput can reach 6.4[Formula: see text]Gpixels/s, which can accommodate 3840 × 2160@60fps. The experiment results demonstrate that this study presents better hardware efficiency of 337[Formula: see text]Gpixels/J and 83.5[Formula: see text]Kpixels/s/gate.
Noise-Coupled Time-Interleaved Delta–Sigma Modulator with Reduced Hardware Complexity
Authors: Abdoli Mahmud , Aghdam Esmaeil Najafi
Published: July 2020

Developing an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) based on the time-interleaved delta–sigma modulator (TIDSM) is an appropriate technique to attain high-speed ADCs. TIDSMs can be successfully accomplished with the aid of developing the block digital filtering (BDF) method. In this approach, [Formula: see text] mutually cross-connection delta–sigma modulators are used, whereby each one of them operates at a sampling rate of [Formula: see text], leading to an effective sampling rate of [Formula: see text]. In this study, a novel structure is proposed based on the Noise Coupled time-interleaved delta–sigma modulator (NC-TIDSM) with reduced hardware complexity. This structure not only increases the overall noise transfer function (NTF) order, but also reduces the hardware element counts. The simulation results demonstrate that the SNDRs of the first-order two-channel and four-channel NC-TIDSM with reduced hardware are 13 and 15 dB better than those of their BDF technique counterparts; also, the SNDR of the second-order two-channel NC-TIDSM with reduced hardware is 8 dB better than that of their BDF technique counterpart; also, the hardware element quantities are reduced dramatically. Moreover, some practical challenges such as the finite op-amp’s gain and mismatching effects that directly affect the circuit implementation of the proposed structure have been described. Furthermore, the hardware complexity of the proposed structures is reduced considerably in comparison to that of the BDF technique with the NC-TIDSM structure.
Knotting probability of an arc diagram
Authors: Kawauchi Akio
Published: July 2020

The knotting probability of an arc diagram is defined as the quadruplet of four kinds of finner knotting probabilities which are invariant under a reasonable deformation containing an isomorphism on an arc diagram. In a separated paper, it is shown that every oriented spatial arc admits four kinds of unique arc diagrams up to isomorphisms determined from the spatial arc and the projection, so that the knotting probability of a spatial arc is defined. The definition of the knotting probability of an arc diagram uses the fact that every arc diagram induces a unique chord diagram representing a ribbon 2-knot. Then the knotting probability of an arc diagram is set to measure how many nontrivial ribbon genus 2 surface-knots occur from the chord diagram induced from the arc diagram. The conditions for an arc diagram with the knotting probability 0 and for an arc diagram with the knotting probability 1 are given together with some other properties and some examples.
Existence and multiplicity of positive solutions for a critical weight elliptic system in ℝN
Authors: da Silva João Pablo Pinheiro , de Oliveira Claudionei Pereira
Published: July 2020

In this work, we study the following problem [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are the partial derivatives of the homogeneous function [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text].
Symmetric Catalytic Pt-MnO2@Carbon Microspheres as Micromotors for Dynamic Pollutant Remediation
Authors: Liu Lijuan , Yan Jiachen , Zheng Chan , Xiao Rong , Dai Pingqiang , Wang Qianting , Li Wei , Chen Wenzhe
Published: July 2020

Organic pollutants in water pose a serious risk to public health, hence, it is essential to develop new and innovative approaches to the remediation of contaminated water. This work demonstrates a highly effective bubble-propelled micromotor based on the surface coating of symmetrical carbon microspheres (CMSs) with catalytic manganese dioxide (MnO2) nanoflakes and platinum nanoparticles (Pt NPs) (Pt-MnO2@CMS). This concept represents a simple and flexible strategy for the decomposition of organic pollutants in water and could be used to construct a wide range of diverse micromotors with applications in drug delivery, sensing, energy generation and environmental remediation. The unique hierarchical structure of the MnO2 nanoflakes and the uniform dispersion of Pt NPs in this material were confirmed. The resulting micromotors were found to move rapidly as a result of propulsion by oxygen bubbles generated in a H2O2 solution via the catalytic actions of the MnO2 nanoflakes and Pt NPs. In contrast to the intrinsic asymmetry of tubular and Janus structures, the self-driven motion of these symmetrical micromotors can be attributed to morphological variations and the uneven distribution of the cocatalysts. Combining a porous structure, rapid movement and Fenton-like reactions, these Pt-MnO2@CMS micromotors rapidly degraded methylene blue (MB), providing greater than 99% decolorization in just 30[Formula: see text]min without the need for external agitation. Analyses of the adsorption mechanism based on pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order kinetics models showed that adsorption proceeded via chemical processes. These new micromotors are expected to have important environmental and biomedical applications.
The Chinese Communist Party and Politics 2019/2020
Authors: CHEN Gang
Published: July 2020

In September 2019, Chinese President Xi Jinping urged the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to gear up in countering imminent “struggles” and in achieving the ambitious “two centennial” targets amid the US–China trade war, Hong Kong unrest and a slowing economy. A novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak that erupted in Wuhan in October 2019 had scuppered China’s timeline to achieve its targets. While China successfully curbed the spread of COVID-19 within its border, enormous challenges lie ahead for China to maintain its economic growth and social stability. The daunting combat against the COVID-19 pandemic marks the beginning of the testing time.
North Korea 2019–2020
Authors: KIM Sung Chull
Published: July 2020

While the nuclear negotiations between the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) and the United States reached a stalemate in 2019, North Korea has advanced its missile capability and strengthened its alignment with China. In 2020 and beyond, the security of the Korean peninsula will depend on China’s influence on the DPRK–US game amid the US–China rivalry; the modality of Kim Jong-un’s actions, i.e. whether they are provocations or restraints; and the sanctions’ effect on North Korea’s foreign currency reserves.