bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Degree of Helicobacter pylori Infection Affects the State of Macrophage Polarization through Crosstalk between ROS and HIF-1α
Authors: Lu Ying , Rong Jianfang , Lai Yongkang , Tao Li , Yuan Xiaogang , Shu Xu
Published: December 2020

Background and Objective. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is involved in macrophage polarization, but the specific mechanism is not well understood. Therefore, this study is aimed at investigating the effects of the degree of H. pylori infection on the macrophage polarization state and the crosstalk between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and hypoxia-inducible factor 1 α (HIF-1α) in this process. Methods. The expression of CD86, CD206, and HIF-1α in the gastric mucosa was evaluated through immunohistochemistry. RAW 264.7 cells were cocultured with H. pylori at various multiplicities of infection (MOIs), and iNOS, CD86, Arg-1, CD206, and HIF-1α expression was detected by Western blot, PCR, and ELISA analyses. ROS expression was detected with the fluorescent probe DCFH-DA. Macrophages were also treated with the ROS inhibitor NAC or HIF-1α inhibitor YC-1. Results. Immunohistochemical staining revealed that the macrophage polarization state was associated with the progression of gastric lesions and state of H. pylori infection. The MOI of H. pylori affected macrophage polarization, and H. pylori enhanced the expression of ROS and HIF-1α in macrophages. A low MOI of H. pylori promoted both the M1 and M2 phenotypes, while a high MOI suppressed the M2 phenotype. Furthermore, ROS inhibition attenuated HIF-1α expression and switched macrophage polarization from M1 to M2. However, HIF-1α inhibition suppressed ROS expression and inhibited both the M1 phenotype and the M2 phenotype. Inhibition of ROS or HIF-1α also suppressed the activation of the Akt/mTOR pathway, which was implicated in H. pylori-induced macrophage polarization. Conclusions. Macrophage polarization is associated with the progression of gastric lesions and state of H. pylori infection. The MOI of H. pylori influences the macrophage polarization state. Crosstalk between ROS and HIF-1α regulates H. pylori-induced macrophage polarization via the Akt/mTOR pathway.
Action Strategy Analysis in Probabilistic Preference Movement-Based Three-Way Decision
Authors: Jiang Chunmao , Zhao Shubao
Published: December 2020

The trisecting-acting-outcome model is a methodology of “thinking in threes,” which is the main idea of the three-way decision (3WD). It consists of three components: trisecting, acting, and outcome evaluation. A strategy selection method in a movement-based three-way decision (M-3WD) has been proposed in previous work. However, conflicting information widely existing in the information system has not yet been given sufficient consideration. The conflicting information brings massive noisy strategies when mining action strategies in three regions. This paper proposed a novel three-way decision model for action strategy set, which can analyze and classify strategies by introducing credibility and coverage. The model can remove noisy strategies and choose strategies more suitable for the need of decision makers. To evaluate and select an optimal action strategy, we analyze the probabilistic preference in a movement-based three-way decision. The approach determines the probability of movement by using the evidence theory (D-S) theory. The optimal action strategy is selected by analyzing the difference between the ideal movement and the actual movement, the lower the difference, the better the strategy. We give an example of medical decision-making to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Energy Management Strategy for High-Altitude Solar Aircraft Based on Multiple Flight Phases
Authors: Sun Mou , Shan Chuan , Sun Kang-wen , Jia Yu-hong
Published: December 2020

Making use of solar energy to fly is an up-and-coming technology in the human aviation field since solar energy is renewable and inexhaustible, and more and more attention and efforts have been directed to the development of high-altitude solar aircraft (HSA). Due to the technical constraints of the rechargeable battery, the HSA must carry sufficient batteries to meet the flight power consumption at night, which seriously limits the flight endurance of HSA. To solve this contradiction, the paper has proposed a new energy management strategy (EMS) of multiple flight phases for HSA based on the gravitational energy storage and mission altitude, which aims to achieve the goal of long-endurance flight for HSA. The integrated model of this new EMS includes the aerodynamic model, the kinematic model, the solar irradiation model, the battery model, and the energy management model. Compared with the current EMS of level flight, the flight path of HSA in the new EMS has been divided into five phases: the lower altitude level flight at night, the maximum power ascending for mission altitude, the level flight at mission altitude, the maximum power ascending for higher altitude, and the longest gliding endurance. At last, the calculation of the new EMS for Zephyr 7 is studied by MATLAB/Simulink, and the calculation results indicate that about 22.9% of energy surplus can be stored in battery with the new EMS for Zephyr 7 compared with the current EMS, which is equal to reducing the rechargeable battery weight from 16.0 kg to 12.3 kg. Besides, the results of simulation in the four seasons also show that the new EMS is a very promising way to achieve the long-endurance goal for high-altitude HSA when the flight conditions satisfy some constraints like the deficiency of solar flux and the limit of battery mass.
Bael (Aegle marmelos L. Corrêa), a Medicinal Tree with Immense Economic Potentials
Authors: Pathirana Chamila Kumari , Madhujith Terrence , Eeswara Janakie
Published: December 2020

Bael (Aegle marmelos L. Corrêa) is an economically valuable tree species in South Asia. The ripen bael fruits are popular among people because of the delicious fruit pulp, which is ideal for making jam, syrup, and pudding. Bael possesses many medicinal values and therefore used as an ingredient in ayurvedic herbal medical preparations. The fruits, bark, leaves, seeds, and roots of bael contain bioactive compounds such as coumarin, xanthotoxol, imperatorin, aegeline, and marmeline. These compounds can provide antidiabetic, anticancerous, antifertility, antimicrobial, immunogenic, and insecticidal activities. Bael is also essential as a species for reforestation, especially in the unfertile marginal lands. Bael seeds possess a unique fatty acid (12-hydroxyoctadec-cis-9-enoic acid or ricinoleic acid), a convertible item into biodiesel. Bael is an underutilized fruit species in South Asian countries. However, numerous studies report the medically significant properties and industrially vital characteristics of bael in India. The present review focused on summarizing and discussing the essential details and potentials of bael for industrial applications towards economic development.
Unusual Isolated Parapharyngeal Second Branchial Cleft Cyst: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Magdy Emad A. , Fadali Geylan A. , Seif-Elnasr Mahmoud , Fathalla Mohamed F.
Published: December 2020

Second branchial cleft cysts (BCCs) are common congenital causes of neck swellings; however, isolated parapharyngeal space presentation is extremely rare, with only sporadic cases reported. Our objectives in this report are to describe a case and review different diagnostic and management strategies adopted in the current world literature. The case presented is a 26-year-old female with a large isolated parapharyngeal BCC extending to skull base in which first presenting symptoms were referred otalgia and painful side-to-side head rotation for months followed by odynophagia. A previously ordered computed tomography (CT) scan suspected a parapharyngeal abscess. Correct diagnosis was preoperatively achieved using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showing a 3.1 × 3.4 × 5.4 cm parapharyngeal BCC. Cyst was completely surgically excised transoral without complications. No evidence of recurrence has been noted after 24-month follow-up. A comprehensive world literature search for all reported cases in the last 30-years revealed thirty cases in 23 separate case reports with different diagnostic and surgical modalities adopted. Presentation and management strategies in such rare cases are discussed in detail. Our study shows that although rare, BCC diagnosis should be kept in mind while dealing with isolated parapharyngeal space swellings with MRI being key for successful preoperative diagnosis. If encountered, the transoral route can be a safe, aesthetically pleasing and effective way for complete surgical excision in contrast to most other parapharyngeal swellings, which are usually better excised via a transcervical approach.
Clinical Efficacy and Safety of Thai Herbal Formulation‐6 in the Treatment of Symptomatic Osteoarthritis of the Knee: A Randomized‐Controlled Trial
Authors: Koonrungsesomboon Nut , Nopnithipat Saowaros , Teekachunhatean Supanimit , Chiranthanut Natthakarn , Sangdee Chaichan , Chansakaow Sunee , Tipduangta Pramote , Hanprasertpong Nutthiya
Published: December 2020

Background. Osteoarthritis of the knee is the most common form of arthritis. Identifying effective and safe herbal formulations that are locally available is viewed as a priority for sustainable development in a region. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Thai herbal formulation‐6 (THF‐6) in comparison with oral diclofenac in patients with moderate‐to‐severe osteoarthritis of the knee. Methods. This randomized, double‐blind, active‐controlled, noninferiority trial randomly assigned patients with osteoarthritis of the knee to receive either THF‐6 or diclofenac for four weeks. The primary outcome measure was the change from baseline in knee pain as measured by a 100 mm visual analog scale (VAS). Secondary outcome measures included knee stiffness, a stair climb test, the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, and safety parameters. Outcomes were assessed on a biweekly basis. Modified intention‐to‐treat (MITT) and perprotocol (PP) analyses were applied. Results. A total of 200 patients were enrolled of whom 175 (87.5%) were included in the MITT analysis and 153 (76.5%) in the PP analysis. The mean change in VAS pain did not differ between the two groups, and the upper limit of the two‐sided 95% confidence interval (CI) for comparison between the two groups was within the prespecified margin of 10 mm for noninferiority (MITT analysis: mean difference = 0.86, 95% CI = ‐4.39 to 6.10, p = 0.748; PP analysis: mean difference = 1.98, 95% CI = ‐3.61 to 7.56, p = 0.486). Significant improvement was observed in all the efficacy parameters in both groups. Dyspepsia was the most common adverse event: 23 patients in the THF‐6 group and 28 in the diclofenac group (p = 0.417). Conclusions. THF‐6 offers an alternative to oral diclofenac for the short‐term treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee. It was shown to be noninferior to oral diclofenac in relieving knee pain. This trial is registered with ChiCTR-IPR-15007213.
Convergence Analysis of Implicit Euler Method for a Class of Nonlinear Impulsive Fractional Differential Equations
Authors: Yu Yuexin , Zhen Sheng
Published: December 2020

For a class of nonlinear impulsive fractional differential equations, we first transform them into equivalent integral equations, and then the implicit Euler method is adapted for solving the problem. The convergence analysis of the method shows that the method is convergent of the first order. The numerical results verify the correctness of the theoretical results.
A Case of a Two-Month-Old Boy Diagnosed with Infantile Crohn’s Disease Based on an Atypical Perianal Lesion
Authors: Nakaya Kengo , Iinuma Yasushi , Hirayama Yutaka , Sugai Yu , Taki Shotaro
Published: December 2020

Inflammatory bowel disease is rare in infants, and the early diagnosis is very important. We herein report an infant who received an early diagnosis of infantile Crohn’s disease (CD). A two-month-old boy presented with bloody stool. He developed a poor sucking tendency and a painful perianal lesion at three months of age. He was suspected of having infantile CD because of his atypical perianal lesion. Colonoscopy revealed that his perianal lesion had induced rectal longitudinal ulcers. Histology showed no granulomas but patchy inflammation reaching the submucosal layer. He was diagnosed with infantile CD based on the Japanese criteria. CD should be suspected in infants with atypical perianal lesions, irrespective of their age. Early colonoscopy with histology should be considered in these cases in order to prevent adverse outcomes in children.
An Analytical Mechanical Model of Corti in the Cochlea
Authors: Su Jiangtao , Yao Wenjuan , Zhao Zhengshan
Published: December 2020

The organ of Corti (OC) in the cochlea is a significant structure for feeling sound. The components of OC and the interaction of the part with the surroundings contribute to the fact that the passive tuning of the cochlear macrostructure is unclear. Based on the interaction between the basilar membrane (BM), tectorial membrane (TM), reticular lamina (RL), and various parts of OC, a mechanical model of the cochlea is established to study the motion patterns of each part under the action of a certain pressure. The variational principle is applied to the calculation of the analytical expression of the displacement of the BM. The results of the analytical solution differ little from the experimental value, and the variation trend is consistent, which presents the correctness of the model. The parameter sensitivity analysis is carried out for obtaining the interaction principle and the primary and secondary roles of each component in the process of the sense of sound. The results show that the absence of the TM and the decrease in the stiffness of the outer hair cells (OHCs) and OHC bundles will shift vibratory response patterns to lower frequencies, in which the lack of TM will result in the greatest reduction of CF. The absence of RL exerts a negative influence on the CF as well as the amplitude of BM and thereby loss of hearing. Therefore, both TM and RL are essential structures during the process of the sense of sound. At the same time, the resonance frequency at the base of the BM is concentrated on the high-frequency segment, while the apex of the BM is mainly in the low frequency. Different points of BM correspond to different CF, which demonstrates the frequency selectivity of the BM.
Available Relevant Study on Stress Analysis and Static Strength Prediction of Fiber Metal Laminates
Authors: Zhang Xiaochen , Meng Weiying , Guo Jiancheng , Zhang Yu
Published: December 2020

Fiber metal laminates (FMLs) are a novel type of structural material that has been extensively applied in the aerospace field. These laminates are sandwich-type composite materials that comprise alternate metal and fiber-reinforced resin layers. Because of the structural characteristics of the material, it has high-impact resistance from the metal layer and increased fracture toughness and excellent fatigue and damage tolerance properties from the fiber layer. To further develop and apply this new composite material, it is essential to understand the research status on the stress analysis of each component in FMLs and the tensile strength properties of FMLs. Therefore, in this study, the current research status on the residual stress and applied stress of the component materials in FMLs and the tensile strength of the laminates is summarized. The relationship between the applied stress of each layer and the remote stress of laminates and the relationship between the tensile properties of laminates and the component material properties in laminates are clarified. Additionally, the theoretical basis and direction of development of the related models are analyzed and studied. Consequently, all of the above are aimed at laying a foundation for further investigations of the laminate theory and for the improvement of the theoretical research system.
Characteristics and Surgical Results of Patients with Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy without Intrinsic Mitral Valve Diseases Undergoing Mitral Subvalvular Procedures during Myectomy
Authors: Ji Qiang , Wang YuLin , Yang Ye , Xia LiMin , Ding WenJun , Song Kai , Wang ChunSheng
Published: December 2020

Background. Mitral subvalvular procedures have acquired a major role during hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM) surgery. However, few studies have focused on characterizing the clinical feature of HOCM patients without intrinsic mitral valve (MV) diseases undergoing mitral subvalvular procedures in addition to myectomy. Additionally, scant data about the results of mitral subvalvular procedures during HOCM surgery are available. This single-center study aims to characterize the clinical feature and surgical results of HOCM patients without intrinsic MV diseases undergoing mitral subvalvular procedures in addition to myectomy in comparison with those receiving myectomy alone. Methods. Among 181 eligible patients, 50 (27.6%) patients undergoing myectomy plus mitral subvalvular procedures were entered into the combined group, and the remaining 131 patients receiving myectomy alone were included in the alone group. Baseline and surgical characteristics were investigated, and surgical results were compared. Results. Comparatively, the combined group was younger (52.9 ± 11.2 years vs. 56.8 ± 11.8 years,

p
=
0.045

) and had a better New York Heart Association (NYHA) class (

p
=
0.034

) and less septal hypertrophy (16.4 ± 2.3 mm vs. 18.5 ± 3.2 mm,

p
<
0.001

). Septal thickness was independently associated with combined procedures in multivariable logistic regression analysis (OR = 0.887, 95% CI 0.612–0.917). No surgical death or iatrogenic septal perforation occurred in the combined group. Two (6.5%) patients in the combined group developed complete atrioventricular block and required permanent pacemaker implantation. During a median follow-up of 10 months, no deaths or reoperations were observed with the symptom of relief and NYHA class I or II in either group. Patients in the combined group as compared to the alone group had lower outflow tract gradients and a lower incidence of residual systolic anterior motion (SAM) syndrome. Conclusions. For HOCM patients without intrinsic MV diseases who are scheduled for surgery, a less pronounced septal hypertrophy may be closely associated with myectomy with concomitant mitral subvalvular procedures instead of myectomy alone. Mitral subvalvular procedures during myectomy are safe and allow the reduction of outflow tract gradients and freedom from SAM more effectively in comparison with myectomy alone.
Effect of Fermentation Using Lactobacillus plantarum A6 on the Physicochemical and Functional Properties of Precooked Sorghum bicolor and Voandzeia subterranea Blended Flour
Authors: Ntsamo Thierry Marcel Beumo , Mohammadou Bouba Adji , Sokamte Alphonse Tegang , Njintang Nicolas Yanou , Tatsadjieu Leopold Ngoune
Published: December 2020

The present study is aimed at producing Sorghum bicolor and Voandzeia subterranea complementary instant flour. The precooked sorghum and Bambara groundnut flours were mixed at different proportions (0 : 100, 25 : 75, 50 : 50, 75 : 25, and 100 : 0), hydrated with sterile distilled water (1 : 3, w:v), and fermented for 72 h/37°C using Lactobacillus plantarum A6 at 105 CFU/g. During the fermentation, samples were withdrawn for pH, titrable acidity, and microbial analyses. After fermentation, color, particle size, water absorption capacity (WAC), solubility index, least gelling concentration (LGC), and physicochemical and pasting properties were determined. The results showed that the fermentation significantly (

p
≤
0.05

) decreased WAC, LGC, peak viscosity, final viscosity, breakdown, and pH, but increased the solubility index and titrable acidity of flours. The protein and carbohydrates contents as well as the color, particle size, and the setback after the cooking of the flour were not significantly affected by the fermentation. The flours ratio and fermentation also significantly decreased the total polyphenols, tannins, and phytate content of the samples. The fermented blended flour containing 25% precooked sorghum flour and 75% roasted Bambara flour (SVFP25) is a promising alternative as instant flour used for young children’s nutrition.
Microscopic Mechanism of Cement Improving the Strength of Lime‐Fly Ash‐Stabilized Yellow River Alluvial Silt
Authors: Zhang Xiaobin , Zhu Zhiduo
Published: December 2020

Silt is a kind of soil with poor engineering performance. Lime‐fly ash‐ (LF‐) stabilized silt has the problem of low early strength. In this study, it is aimed to investigate the effect of cement on improving the strength of LF‐stabilized silt and reveal the microscopic mechanism. A fixed percentage of LF (18%) plus different percentages of cement (0%, 2%, 4%, and 6%) were mixed with Yellow River alluvial silt (YRAS). Soil samples for tests were artificially made by compaction in the laboratory. Unconfined compressive strength (UCS) tests were performed on soil samples cured for 7 d, 28 d, 60 d, and 90 d. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) tests, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) tests, and mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) tests were performed on soil samples cured for 7 d and 28 d. UCS results showed that the early strength of LF‐stabilized YRAS developed significantly after adding cement. UCS also increased with the increase in cement content and curing time. SEM results revealed the differences in microstructure of LF‐stabilized YRAS before and after adding cement. Before adding cement, the main microstructure characteristics included small soil particles, large number of pores, and loose particle arrangement. After adding cement, the main microstructure characteristics included large bonded particles, small number of pores, and dense particle arrangement. The EDS results showed that, after curing for 28 d, the elements of gels in stabilized YRAS had changed, mainly including appearance of C and a significant increase of Ca. MIP results showed that the pores with a size of 1 μm∼10 μm accounted for the largest proportion in stabilized YRAS. The product (mainly C‐S‐H) of cement hydration mainly filled the pores with a size larger than 10 μm at the early stage. Combining strength results and microresults, the micromechanism of cement improving the strength of LF‐stabilized YRAS was discussed.
Cerebral Vasospasm after Posterior Fossa Tumor Surgery: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Gocmen Selcuk , Acka Gokhan , Karaman Kutlay , Kahraman Serdar
Published: December 2020

Introduction: This report presents an unusual case of symptomatic vasospasm following resection of posterior fossa tumor in a 9-year-old female patient. To the best of our knowledge, only 6 pediatric cases of vasospasms as a complication of brain tumor surgery have been reported in the literature previously. Case Presentation: After an uneventful 12 days postoperatively, the patient suddenly presented with acute neurological deterioration on the 13th day and MR angiography showed bilateral narrowing of the supraclinoid segments of the internal carotid artery and the proximal parts of the A1 and M1 segments. Hypervolemia and vasospasm treatments were administered, and the patient exhibited no neurological deficit at the time of discharge, confirmed via normal MRI. Conclusion: Early diagnosis and intervention in case of suspected symptomatic cerebral vasospasm after pediatric posterior fossa tumor surgery are essential in order to achieve favorable outcomes.
Overtreatment of Nonneoplastic Gallbladder Polyps due to Inadequate Routine Ultrasound Assessment
Authors: Wennmacker Sarah Z. , de Savornin Lohman Elise A.J. , Hasami Nesar A. , Nagtegaal Iris D. , Boermeester Marja A. , Verheij Joanne , Spillenaar Bilgen Ernst Jan , Meijer Jos W.H. , Bosscha Koop , van der Linden Johannes C. , Hermans John J. , de Reuver Philip R. , Drenth Joost P.H. , van Laarhoven Cornelius J.H.M.
Published: December 2020

Background: The primary aim was to assess the diagnostic accuracy of routine ultrasound assessment for gallbladder polyps. The secondary aim was to identify the characteristics that differentiate neoplastic polyps from nonneoplastic polyps. Methods: A total of 156 patients with histopathologically proven gallbladder polyps in 4 Dutch hospitals between 2003 and 2013 were included. Sensitivity and specificity of ultrasound for polyp size, number of polyps, and polyp type were assessed using histopathological findings as a reference standard. In addition, diagnostic accuracy of sonographic size ≥1 cm for neoplasia was assessed. Subgroup analysis for patients with polyps as primary indication for cholecystectomy was performed. The sonographic polyp characteristics on preoperative routine ultrasound were described. Results: Fifty-six percent of gallbladder polyps were preoperatively identified on ultrasound, of which 31% were neoplastic. Sensitivity and specificity of ultrasound to estimate polyp size were 93 and 43% (subgroup; 92 and 33%). Sensitivity and specificity of sonographic polyp size ≥1 cm for neoplasia were 86 and 32% (subgroup; 94 and 26%). No specific sonographic characteristics for neoplastic polyps could be established due to lack of reporting. Conclusion: Routine ultrasound assessment of polyps is associated with overestimation of polyp size and low specificity of sonographic size ≥1 cm for neoplasia, which contributes to surgical overtreatment of nonneoplastic polyps.
Pineal Atypical Teratoid Rhabdoid Tumor in a 5-Month-Old Child
Authors: Gendle Chandrashekhar , Karthigeyan Madhivanan , Salunke Pravin , Gupta Kirti
Published: December 2020

Introduction: Atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumors (ATRT), an uncommon malignant intracranial tumor with aggressive behavior are mostly seen in posterior fossa in young pediatric age-group. Case Presentation: We present an infrequent location of this tumor in the pineal region in a 5-month-old infant. Also, the lesion was non-enhancing which was highly atypical of an ATRT. It was near-totally excised with the child placed in sitting position. However, within a short interval, a tumor recurrence was noted. Conclusion: The case possibly represents an extended spectrum of congenital childhood brain tumors. Importantly, it highlights an atypical imaging of ATRT in very young children.
Outer Cutoff Value for the Box-Counting Method for Fractal Analysis of the Nucleus Using Kirsch Edge Detection
Authors: Yoshioka Haruhiko , Minami Kouki , Odashima Hirokazu , Miyakawa Keita , Horie Kayo , Watanabe Jun
Published: December 2020

Objective: The complexity of chromatin (i.e., irregular geometry and distribution) is one of the important factors considered in the cytological diagnosis of cancer. Fractal analysis with Kirsch edge detection is a known technique to detect irregular geometry and distribution in an image. We examined the outer cutoff value for the box-counting (BC) method for fractal analysis of the complexity of chromatin using Kirsch edge detection. Materials: The following images were used for the analysis: (1) image of the nucleus for Kirsch edge detection measuring 97 × 122 pix (10.7 × 13.4 μm) with a Feret diameter of chromatin mesh (n = 50) measuring 17.3 ± 1.8 pix (1.9 ± 0.5 μm) and chromatin network distance (n = 50) measuring 4.4 ± 1.6 pix (0.49 ± 0.18 μm), and (2) sample images for Kirsch edge detection with varying diameters (10.4, 15.9, and 18.1 μm) and network width of 0.4 μm. Methods: Three types of bias that can affect the outcomes of fractal analysis in cytological diagnosis were defined. (1) Nuclear position bias: images of 9 different positions generated by shifting the original position of the nucleus in the middle of a 256 × 256 pix (28.1 μm) square frame in 8 compass directions. (2) Nuclear rotation bias: images of 8 different rotations obtained by rotating the original position of the nucleus in 45° increments (0°, 45°, 90°, 135°, 180°, 225°, 270°, and 315°). (3) Nuclear size bias: images of varying size (diameter: 190 pix [10.4 μm], 290 pix [15.9 μm], and 330 pix [18.1 μm]) with the same mesh pattern (network width: 8 pix [0.4 μm]) within a 512 × 512 pix square. Different outer cutoff values for the BC method (256, 128, 64, 32, 16, and 8 pix) were applied for each bias to assess the fractal dimension and to compare the coefficient of variation (CV). Results: The BC method with the outer cutoff value of 32 pix resulted in the least variation of fractal dimension. Specifically, with the cutoff value of 32 pix, the CV of nuclear position bias, nuclear rotation bias, and nuclear size bias were <1% (0.1, 0.4, and 0.3%, respectively), with no significant difference between the position and rotation bias (p = 0.19). Our study suggests that the BC method with the outer cutoff value of 32 pix is suitable for the analysis of the complexity of chromatin with chromatin mesh.
Cumplimiento de derechos infantiles en Chile: evaluación de profesionales de programas públicos
Authors: Lagos-Beltrán Giselle Constanza , Perez-Luco Arenas Ricardo
Published: December 2020

Resumen (analítico)Ante la escasez de evidencia, el objetivo general de este estudio fue describir y aplicar un instrumento propuesto para medir los derechos infantiles en Chile, desde el ejercicio cotidiano de operadores sociales que trabajan con infancia y adolescencia en centros educacionales, de salud, justicia o de desarrollo psicosocial. La muestra estuvo compuesta por 407 participantes (profesores, psicólogos, entre otros). El instrumento considera los cuatro principios fundamentalesde la Convención de Derechos del Niño: no discriminación, interés superior, derecho a la vida, desarrollo, supervivencia y participación. Los resultados preliminares sugieren que existen diferencias estadísticamente significativas en el grado de cumplimiento de los derechos según el ámbito de desempeño. Se discute la consistencia interna del instrumento y su adaptación según ámbito, población atendida y aplicación en población infantil general y específica.
Palabras clave: Responsabilidad del Estado, derechos del niño, instrumento de medición, trabajador social.
A Hakim’s Tale
Authors: Hamza Shireen
Published: December 2020

In the fourteenth century, the physician Shihāb al-Dīn Nāgaurī added an autobiographical chapter to the end of a medical text, describing his experiences learning and practicing medicine in India. Because this text is not easily accessible, especially when compared to autobiographies of physicians written in Arabic, I present the Persian text and translation of this chapter here. It is the final chapter of Cure of Illness (Shifāʾ al-maraẓ), composed in 1388 CE, and is one of the few texts of ṭibb (often known as Greco-Arabic medicine or Islamic medicine) from the early centuries of its spread in India. Nāgaurī reflects on the pluralism of his environment. He studied medicine with a ḥakīm (a practitioner of ṭibb) from Kabul as well as with local jogis (who taught him Ayurveda). He preferred his Hindu patients to his Muslim patients, finding the latter lacking in faith. The themes raised by Nāgaurī’s tale can help us study hybridity in Indian medicine before the European colonial encounter.
Epilogue
Authors: Cerulli Anthony
Published: December 2020

This epilogue reflects on scholarship in the study of South Asian medicines and healing traditions at the end of the twentieth century and in the first two decades of the twenty-first century. It underscores the growing multidisciplinarity of this field, and it suggests that the contributions to this special issue signal this development and speak to the theoretical richness and importance of this research.
Beyond Respecting Mencius and Criticizing Xunzi: A Return to Equal Status for the Two Sages
Authors: Liang Tao
Published: December 2020

Mencius 孟子 took Confucius’ idea of benevolence and, based on it, developed his theory that human nature is good. Xunzi 荀子 emphasized Confucius’ idea of ritual propriety and developed his theory that human nature is bad. This juxtaposition largely came to define their philosophies and their place in the history of Confucianism. Reconciling the two has been a point of contention ever since the Han dynasty. By the end of the Han dynasty, the scales had tipped in favor of Mencius, and this favoritism continued through the Six Dynasties era, the Tang and Song dynasties and beyond. As the Mencius became canonized, the Xunzi fell further out of favor with academics. Through all this, there have still been attempts to directly reconcile and even combine the two branches of Confucianism. This is an important cultural enterprise, which has gained new force in recent years. This article threads out some of the more important arguments in this continuing discussion and advocates for viewing the two branches with equal import and authority in the Confucian tradition.
Tintinnids (Tintinnida: Ciliophora) from Colombia: An annotated distributional checklist
Authors: SÁNCHEZ DANIELA ROJAS
Published: December 2020

Tintinnids are loricated ciliates found in coastal and oceanic waters that play a key role in the transference of energy to highest trophic levels. The purpose of this article is intended to integrate the available information about the taxonomy and distribution of Colombian tintinnids. An annotated distributional checklist based on published data is presented. One hundred and seven valid species of tintinnids, belonging to 12 families and 33 genera were listed. The genera Tintinnopsis and Eutinntinnus presented the highest number of species. Eighty-three species were recorded in the Caribbean basin and 51 in the Pacific, with a higher number in coastal waters.
Dynamical Seasonal Predictions of Tropical Cyclone Activity: Roles of Sea Surface Temperature Errors and Atmosphere–Land Initialization
Authors: Zhang Gan , Murakami Hiroyuki , Yang Xiaosong , Findell Kirsten L. , Wittenberg Andrew T. , Jia Liwei
Published: December 2020

Climate models often show errors in simulating and predicting tropical cyclone (TC) activity, but the sources of these errors are not well understood. This study proposes an evaluation framework and analyzes three sets of experiments conducted using a seasonal prediction model developed at the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory (GFDL). These experiments apply the nudging technique to the model integration and/or initialization to estimate possible improvements from nearly perfect model conditions. The results suggest that reducing sea surface temperature (SST) errors remains important for better predicting TC activity at long forecast leads—even in a flux-adjusted model with reduced climatological biases. Other error sources also contribute to biases in simulated TC activity, with notable manifestations on regional scales. A novel finding is that the coupling and initialization of the land and atmosphere components can affect seasonal TC prediction skill. Simulated year-to-year variations in June land conditions over North America show a significant lead correlation with the North Atlantic large-scale environment and TC activity. Improved land–atmosphere initialization appears to improve the Atlantic TC predictions initialized in some summer months. For short-lead predictions initialized in June, the potential skill improvements attributable to land–atmosphere initialization might be comparable to those achievable with perfect SST predictions. Overall, this study delineates the SST and non-oceanic error sources in predicting TC activity and highlights avenues for improving predictions. The nudging-based evaluation framework can be applied to other models and help improve predictions of other weather extremes.
Improving Predictions of Surface Air Temperature Anomalies over Japan by the Selective Ensemble Mean Technique
Authors: Ratnam J. V. , Doi Takeshi , Morioka Yushi , Oettli Pascal , Nonaka Masami , Behera Swadhin K.
Published: December 2020

The selective ensemble mean (SEM) technique is applied to the late spring and summer months (May–August) surface air temperature anomaly predictions of the Scale Interaction Experiment–Frontier Research Center for Global Change, version 2 (SINTEX-F2), coupled general circulation model over Japan. Using the Köppen–Geiger climatic classification we chose four regions over Japan for applying the SEM technique. The SINTEX-F2 ensemble members for the SEM are chosen based on the anomaly correlation coefficients (ACC) of the SINTEX-F2 predicted and observed surface air temperature anomalies. The SEM technique is applied to generate the forecasts of the surface air temperature anomalies for the period 1983–2018 using the selected members. Analysis shows the ACC skill score of the SEM prediction to be higher compared to the ACC skill score of predictions obtained by averaging all the 24 members of the SINTEX-F2 (ENSMEAN). The SEM predicted surface air temperature anomalies also have higher hit rate and lower false alarm rate compared to the ENSMEAN predicted anomalies over a range of temperature anomalies. The results indicate the SEM technique to be a simple and easy to apply method to improve the SINTEX-F2 predictions of surface air temperature anomalies over Japan. The better performance of the SEM in generating the surface air temperature anomalies can be partly attributed to realistic prediction of 850-hPa geopotential height anomalies over Japan.
Longer Prehospital Time Decreases Reliability of Vital Signs in the Field: A Dual Center Study
Authors: Schellenberg Morgan , Biswas Subarna , Bardes James M. , Trust Marc D. , Grabo Daniel , Wilson Alison , Inaba Kenji
Published: December 2020

Background

Field vital signs are integral in the American College of Surgeons (ASA) Committee on Trauma (COT) triage criteria for trauma team activation (TTA). Reliability of field vital signs in predicting first emergency department (ED) vital signs, however, may depend upon prehospital time. The study objective was to define the effect of prehospital time on correlation between field and first ED vital signs.

Methods

All highest level TTAs at two Level I trauma centers (2008-2018) were screened. Exclusions were unrecorded prehospital vital signs and those dead on arrival. Demographics, prehospital time (scene time + transport time), injury data, and vital signs were collected. Differences between field and first ED vitals were determined using the paired Student’s t test. Propensity score analysis, adjusting for age, sex, injury severity score (ISS), and mechanism of injury compared outcomes among patients with ISS ≥16. Multivariate linear regression determined impact of prehospital time on vital sign differences between field and ED among propensity-matched patients.

Results

After exclusions, 21 499 patients remained. Mean prehospital time was 32 vs. 41 minutes ( P < .001). On propensity score analysis, longer prehospital time was associated with significantly greater differences in systolic blood pressure (SBP) ( P < .001), pulse pressure (PP) ( P = .003), and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) ( P < .001). On multivariate analysis, linear regression that demonstrated longer prehospital time was associated with greater differences in SBP, heart rate (HR), and PP ( P < .001).

Conclusions

Field vital signs are less likely to reflect initial ED vital signs when prehospital times are longer. Given the reliance of trauma triage criteria on prehospital vital signs, medical providers must be cognizant of this pitfall during the prehospital assessment of trauma patients.
Small Bowel Adenocarcinoma Arising in an Iatrogenically Created Jejunosigmoid Bypass
Authors: Andrews Weston G. , Crandall Marie , Dalton Brian G. A.
Published: December 2020

We believe this to be the first case report of jejunosigmoid bypass harboring small bowel adenocarcinoma. The mechanism of malignant degeneration could be similar to that of carcinogenesis of ureterosigmoidostomy that is of historical interest. This case represents an example of why it is imperative for surgeons to be diligent in their preparation and workup of a patient before a complex operation, especially in patients with peculiar or unknown surgical histories
The Need for Nutritional Education Reform in US Medical Education System
Authors: Sutherland Mason , McKenney Kelly , Shanahan Hunter , McKenney Mark , Elkbuli Adel
Published: December 2020

Background

To compare the setting, quality, and utility of nutritional education received by general surgery residents and faculty surgeons and their perceptions and challenges in managing patient nutritional needs.

Methods

Cross-sectional analysis utilizing anonymous survey data distributed by the Association of Program Directors in Surgery (APDS) to its affiliated general surgery residency programs.

Results

90.2% (n = 65) of residents and 85.7% (n = 24) of faculty surgeons reported having received nutritional education. The majority (78%) of respondents utilize patient nutrition on a regular basis (monthly or more often), with 54% reporting utilization daily or weekly. Overall, 65% of respondents reported experiencing challenges in managing patient nutritional needs, and 86% agreed that additional nutritional education during training would assist with patient care. Residents and faculty surgeons both significantly reported challenges in determining which specific nutritional formula to use ( X2 = 22.414, P = .049). Residents were associated with reporting challenges in successfully managing oral, enteral, and parenteral routes of nutrition ( X2 = 16.241, P = .023).

Conclusions

Despite receiving nutritional education, the majority of surgery residents and faculty surgeons report difficulty in managing their patients nutritional needs. Surgery residents report difficulties with all delivery modes of nutrition, including oral, parenteral, and enteral. Revising medical school nutritional education competencies to focus on more practical aspects of nutrition, reform of formal course format, greater interprofessional collaboration with dieticians starting at the student level, and enforcement of nutritional education requirements by medical school and residency program accrediting bodies can serve to advance physicians’ nutritional knowledge and improve patient outcomes.
A Longitudinal Investigation of Discrimination and Mental Health in Chinese International Students: The Role of Social Connectedness
Authors: Sun Xiaoning , Hall Gordon C. Nagayama , DeGarmo David S. , Chain Jennifer , Fong Michelle C.
Published: December 2020

Race-based discrimination is associated with negative mental health outcomes for Chinese international students. Host and ethnic social connectedness have been demonstrated to buffer the effects of discrimination on mental health. However, most studies thus far have utilized cross-sectional designs. The current study was a longitudinal investigation of the effects of race- and language-based discrimination on anxiety and depression symptoms among 210 Chinese international students studying in the U.S. Participants were assessed during their first academic term at a U.S. university (T1) and 3 months later during their second term (T2). Measures included the Brief Perceived Discrimination Scale, the Perceived Language Discrimination Scale, the Social Connectedness Scale, the Beck Anxiety Inventory, and the Beck Depression Inventory-II. Results from a cross-lag model showed that T1 perceived discrimination was significantly predictive of T2 negative mental health symptoms, whereas T1 mental health symptoms did not predict T2 perceived discrimination. Subsequent moderation models revealed that this association between discrimination and mental health symptoms was buffered by host social connectedness (i.e., social connectedness with American students) but not ethnic social connectedness (i.e., social connectedness with Chinese students). This longitudinal analysis implies that efforts to reduce experiences of discrimination and to facilitate social connections between international and American students may help prevent negative mental health outcomes among international students.
How and how much does expert error matter? Implications for quantitative peace research
Authors: Marquardt Kyle L
Published: December 2020

Expert-coded datasets provide scholars with otherwise unavailable data on important concepts. However, expert coders vary in their reliability and scale perception, potentially resulting in substantial measurement error. These concerns are acute in expert coding of key concepts for peace research. Here I examine (1) the implications of these concerns for applied statistical analyses, and (2) the degree to which different modeling strategies ameliorate them. Specifically, I simulate expert-coded country-year data with different forms of error and then regress civil conflict onset on these data, using five different modeling strategies. Three of these strategies involve regressing conflict onset on point estimate aggregations of the simulated data: the mean and median over expert codings, and the posterior median from a latent variable model. The remaining two strategies incorporate measurement error from the latent variable model into the regression process by using multiple imputation and a structural equation model. Analyses indicate that expert-coded data are relatively robust: across simulations, almost all modeling strategies yield regression results roughly in line with the assumed true relationship between the expert-coded concept and outcome. However, the introduction of measurement error to expert-coded data generally results in attenuation of the estimated relationship between the concept and conflict onset. The level of attenuation varies across modeling strategies: a structural equation model is the most consistently robust estimation technique, while the median over expert codings and multiple imputation are the least robust.
Effects of temporal characteristics and weather conditions on speeding sanction rates in automatic traffic enforcement
Authors: Sutela Mika , Aaltonen Mikko
Published: December 2020

Speeding is dangerous and contributes significantly to traffic safety. Despite that, speeding is not perceived as serious crime, and has been a relatively neglected topic in criminology. The purpose of this study is to analyse the effects of different temporal characteristics and weather conditions on speeding sanction rates in automatic traffic enforcement. The analysis focuses on two major highways in Finland. Generalized additive models are used to analyse factors influencing the sanction rates. The findings indicate e.g., that high temperatures are associated with higher rates of speeding, and the converse is true for rainfall.
Assessment of Pediatric Middle Ear Effusions With Wideband Tympanometry
Authors: Callaham Sarah , Newby Maxwell , Saoji Aniket A. , Ramadan Jad , Carr Michele M.
Published: December 2020

Objective

To determine if wideband tympanometry (WBT) can differentiate types of middle ear effusion (MEE): serous, mucoid, and purulent.

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Tertiary care children’s hospital.

Methods

Children who met American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery’s guidelines for ventilation tube insertion had WBT after anesthesia induction but before tympanotomy. MEE was categorized into 1 of 4 comparison groups: serous effusion, mucoid effusion, purulent effusion, or no effusion. WBT measurements were averaged to 16 one‐third octave frequency bands, and comparison of the absorbance patterns for each MEE type was performed through a linear mixed effects model.

Results

A total of 118 children (211 ears) were included: 47 females (39.8%) and 71 males (60.2%). The mean age was 2.73 years (95% CI, 2.25‐3.22); mean weight, 14.35 kg (95% CI, 12.85‐15.85); and mean Z score, 1.13 (95% CI, –0.64 to 2.33). Effusions included 61 mucoid (28.9%), 30 purulent (14.2%), and 14 serous (6.6%), with 106 (50.2%) having no effusion. No significant differences were found for sex, race, age, weight, or Z score among the 4 types of effusion (P <. 05). WBT showed a significant difference in median absorption among the effusion groups (P <. 001), with a medium effect size of 0.35.

Conclusions

WBT has potential use to differentiate types of MEE and should be studied further as a tool for investigating how the natural history and management of serous and mucoid effusions may differ.