bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the multiscale “meteor shower” effect from oil to the central and eastern European stock indices
Authors: Živkov Dejan , Balaban Suzana , Pećanac Marko
Published: October 2020

This paper investigates the idiosyncratic volatility spillover effect from the Brent oil futures market to the 11 stock markets of Central and Eastern European economies. As volatility proxies, we use regime‐switching conditional volatilities, obtained from two‐states MS‐GARCH model. In order to determine the level of this effect in different market conditions and in different time‐horizons, we combine wavelet methodology with the quantile regression approach. Our results indicate that the volatility spillover effect is not particularly strong across the countries and the wavelet scales, except in those conditions when stock market volatility is exceptionally high. Also, the wavelet‐based quantile parameters report that the volatility transmission effect gradually subsides with the flow of time, and it applies for the majority of the indices. Romanian BET index experiences the strongest volatility spillover effect from oil in conditions when Romanian stock market is under extreme stress. The reason for this finding probably lies in the facts that Romania is the largest oil and gas producer among all CEECs, and oil and gas markets tend to comove strongly. Based on findings of wavelet quantile parameters and wavelet correlations, we can conclude that hedgers and portfolio managers can build their portfolio strategies, combining Brent oil futures with the CEE indices.
Effects of the bank levy introduction on the interbank market
Authors: Puławska Karolina
Published: October 2020

One of the proposals that have been brought forward regarding ways of discouraging banks from taking unnecessary risk, widely debated these days, is the introduction of taxes in the financial sector. Although recent empirical investigations document a positive effect of the bank levies (BL), it may also reduce banks' activity. In this paper, we aim to analyse the Polish BL on assets. Poland's interbank market might be affected by a new BL introduced in 2016, as interbank positions of the balance sheet have been also taxed. The analysis covers the panel structure of data of Polish banks with unconsolidated financial statements. To evaluate the impact of the BL on the above interbank market features, we use the OLS regression with fixed effects in relation to the bank. Data has been sourced from OrbisFocus and Central Banks' websites and covers the period 2011–2017. The result demonstrates that the BL on assets applied in Poland has a negative impact on the interbank market. Estimation results shows that the BL on assets significantly decrease the value of 1y and increases the value of 3 months interbank loans. In addition, the BL on assets in the banking sector positively affects the value of government securities and negatively affects the interest income on interbank loans. Moreover, the dispersion of 1 and 3 months quotations was reduced as a result of the BL introduction. In case of short‐term transactions, dispersion amplifies. Additionally, the volatility of quotation decreases due to reduced trading after the BL implementation.
Retracted: Zn(II)‐based complex: Photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue and biological activity on the brain damage caused by cerebral hemorrhage by reducing the thrombin content
Authors: Shi Yong‐Wei , Su Jing , Chen Xiao‐Chang , Yu Ya‐Dong
Published: October 2020

Through applying the mixed‐ligand method, a new coordination polymer (CP) based on Zn(II) ions as metal nodes was synthesized under the hydrothermal reaction conditions, and its chemical formula is {[Zn(L)0.5(1,4‐bib)]·H2O}n (1) (H4L = 1,2,4,5‐cyclohexanetetracarboxylic acid and 1,4‐bib = 1,4‐bis[1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl]benzene). The photophysical research reflected that the complex 1 is a kind of potential semiconductor material. In addition, under the ultraviolet irradiation, complex 1 has high photocatalytic degradation efficiency for methylene blue (MB), and it reveals excellent recoverability and stability. Furthermore, the biological activity of the compound against brain damage caused by cerebral hemorrhage was evaluated. The real‐time Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT‐PCR) method was conducted firstly to determine the prothrombin expression levels. Next, the inflammatory response in the brain tissue was assessed by determining the activation level of nuclear factor kappa‐B (NF‐κB) with western blot.
Enrolment characteristics associated with retention among HIV negative Kenyan gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men enrolled in the Anza Mapema cohort study
Authors: Kunzweiler Colin , Bailey Robert C , Okall Duncan O , Graham Susan M , Mehta Supriya D , Otieno‐Nyunya Boaz , Djomand Gaston , Otieno Fredrick O
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Most gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) live in rights‐constrained environments making retaining them in research to be as hard as recruiting them. To evaluate Anza Mapema, an HIV risk‐reduction programme in Kisumu, Kenya, we examined the enrolment sociodemographic, behavioural, psychosocial and clinical factors associated with missing two or more follow‐up visits for GBMSM participating in Anza Mapema.

Methods

Between August 2015 and November 2017, GBMSM were enrolled and followed in a prospective cohort study with quarterly visits over 12 months. At enrolment, men were tested for HIV and sexually transmitted infections and completed questionnaires via audio computer‐assisted self‐interview. Because the Kenya Ministry of Health recommends HIV testing every three to six months for GBMSM, the retention outcome in this cross sectional analysis was defined as missing two consecutive follow‐up visits (vs. not missing two or more consecutive visits). Multivariable logistic regression estimated the adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the associations of the enrolment characteristics with the binary outcome of retention.

Results and discussion

Among 609 enrolled HIV‐negative GBMSM, the median age was 23 years (interquartile range, 21 to 28 years), 19.0% had completed ≤8 years of education and 4.1% had resided in the study area <1 year at enrolment. After enrolment, 19.7% missed two consecutive follow‐up visits. In the final multivariable model, the odds of missing two consecutive follow‐up visits were higher for men who: resided in the study area <1 year at enrolment (aOR, 4.14; 95% CI: 1.77 to 9.68), were not living with a male sexual partner (aOR, 1.59; 95% CI: 1.01 to 2.50), and engaged in transactional sex during the last three months (aOR, 1.70; 95% CI: 1.08 to 2.67).

Conclusions

One in five men missed two consecutive follow‐up visits during this HIV prevention study despite intensive retention efforts and compensation for travel and participation. Participants with recent community arrival may require special support to optimize their retention in HIV prevention activities. Live‐in partners of participants may be enlisted to support greater engagement in prevention programmes, and men who engage in transactional sex will need enhanced counselling and support to stay in longitudinal studies.
Optimal designs and surgical technique for hip and knee joint replacement: The best is yet to come!
Authors: Mihalko William M. , Urish Kenneth , Haider Hani
Published: October 2020

Over the last three decades, there have been significant advancements in knee and hip replacement technology. The implants and the surgical technology we now have to aid in their implantation are advancing and improving functional outcomes and survivorship. Despite these advancements, there are still issues with patient satisfaction, functional limitations, and early revisions due to instability and aseptic loosening. This article reviews the state of current technology in hip and knee replacement implant design and surgical technique, and reviews some of the current implant designs and surgical technologies that may be able to solve some of the most common issues in the knee and hip replacement surgery.
A continuous tephrostratigraphic record from the Labrador Sea spanning the last 65 ka
Authors: Rutledal Sunniva , Haflidason Haflidi , Berben Sarah M. P. , Griem Lisa , Jansen Eystein
Published: October 2020

Volcanic ash preserved in marine sediment sequences is key for independent synchronization of palaeoclimate records within and across different climate archives. Here we present a continuous tephrostratigraphic record from the Labrador Sea, spanning the last 65–5 ka, an area and time period that has not been investigated in detail within the established North Atlantic tephra framework. We investigated marine sediment core GS16‐204‐22CC for increased tephra occurrences and geochemically analysed the major element composition of tephra shards to identify their source volcano(es). In total we observed eight tephra zones, of which five concentration peaks show isochronous features that can be used as independent tie‐points in future studies. The main transport mechanism of tephra shards to the site was near‐instantaneous deposition by drifting of sea ice along the East Greenland Current. Our results show that the Icelandic Veidivötn volcanic system was the dominant source of tephra material, especially between late Marine Isotope Stage (MIS) 4 and early MIS 3. The Veidivötn system generated volcanic eruptions in cycles of ca. 3–5 ka. We speculate that the quantity of tephra delivered to the Labrador Sea was a result of variable Icelandic ice volume and/or changes in the transportation pathway towards the Labrador Sea.
Reliable estimation of Raman shift and its uncertainty for a non‐doped Si substrate (NMIJ CRM 5606‐a)
Authors: Itoh Nobuyasu , Shirono Katsuhiro
Published: October 2020

Raman shift is one of the most important parameters in Raman spectroscopy and is theoretically calculated from the difference in the wavenumbers of excitation and Raman scattering. At present, there are no standard procedures available to reliably estimate the Raman shift and evaluate its uncertainty from experimental results. In this study, we reliably estimated the Raman shift and evaluated its uncertainty for a non‐doped crystalline Si substrate (NMIJ CRM5606‐a) using a He‐Ne laser and its plasma lines (Ne emission lines). The Raman scattering wavenumber of NMIJ CRM 5606‐a was estimated by the bracket calibration method using the wavenumbers of the closest Ne emission lines. The Raman shift was determined from the differences in the theoretical wavenumbers of a He‐Ne laser and the observed Raman scattering. To evaluate the combined standard uncertainty, we considered the uncertainty originating from the He‐Ne laser and the Ne emission lines, the repeatability of experimental results, inhomogeneity of measuring points and spectral dispersion. The estimated Raman shift was 520.45 cm−1 ± 0.28 cm−1 (coverage factor k = 2). The Raman shift was validated by the other estimated Raman shifts obtained with other two Raman spectrometers.
Surface‐enhanced Raman scattering probe for molecules strongly coupled with localized surface plasmon under electrochemical potential control
Authors: Minamimoto Hiro , Kato Fumiya , Murakoshi Kei
Published: October 2020

The light–matter interaction is the crucial tool for the efficient light energy usage. Electrochemical potential control method can tune the coupling strength between the molecules and the light field. In this study, electrochemical surface‐enhanced Raman scattering measurements have been carried out to clarify the detailed molecular behavior in the strong coupling regime. The Raman and fluorescence intensities from dye molecules in the strong coupling regime provided us the information about the change in the distance between the molecules and the metal surface in angstrom level. The detailed investigation of spectra revealed the origin for the potential dependence on the coupling strength. The present insight obtained in the current study would be valuable to understand the electrochemically controlled molecule–light interaction for photochemistry research.
Leveraging the increased rates of pathologic complete response after neoadjuvant treatment in breast cancer to de‐escalate surgical treatments
Authors: Esgueva Antonio , Siso Christian , Espinosa‐Bravo Martin , Sobrido Carolina , Miranda Ignacio , Salazar Juan P. , Rubio Isabel T.
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Breast conservative surgery (BCS) and sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) after neoadjuvant treatment (NAT) is safe and effective for selected patients. This aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of anatomic site of response on outcomes and to assess the real population who may benefit from nonsurgical approaches after NAT.

Material and Methods

From a prospectively maintained database, patients with T1‐4 N0‐2 breast cancer undergoing NAT were identified. Clinicopathological and survival rates were compared in relation to response and anatomic site of response.

Results

Six hundred and forty‐six patients were included in the study. Pathologic complete response (pCR) was an independent factor for BCS and SLN. HER2 positive and TN tumors with cN0 achieving a breast pCR remain ypN0 (p = .002). Residual axillary disease was associated with breast residual tumor (p = .05) and subtype (p = .001). With a median follow up of 35.25 months, patients with any pCR had improved survival when compared with partial response, but not significant differences between pCR, axillary pCR, or breast pCR.

Conclusion

Achieving a pCR increases BCS and SLN. In selected subgroups, sparing any axillary surgery after NAT maybe feasible. In cN+ patients, any pCR was associated with survival, but not the anatomic site of response.
Observation and experimental investigation on cavitation effect of friction pair surface texture
Authors: Wang Jianhao , Yan Zhijun , Fang Xun , Shen Ziyu , Pan Xinxiang
Published: October 2020

This study experimentally investigates the influence of cavitation effect caused by surface texture on the lubrication performance of friction pairs. In order to verify and research the cavitation phenomenon induced by surface texture, cavitation images are collected by visual experimental apparatus. The results show that the surface texture will induce the cavitation of the lubricating oil under certain speed and load conditions, gas bubbles will be generated at the outlet of the dimples, and the cavitation will affect the lubrication performance of the friction pair. When the texture depth is close to the oil film thickness, it has the best effect in terms of inducing cavitation and promoting lubrication. And it is found in the experiments when area density of texture is 8% and the square dimples are arranged at inlet area of the sample, the best effect of the surface texture can be obtained.
Transfer of methods for determining parameters of self‐loosening for tests on the vibration test bench according to Junker to tests on a newly developed test setup for single‐bolted joints with short clamping length using an axial test bench
Authors: Eberhard A. , Beyer S. , Klein M. , Oechsner M.
Published: October 2020

Der Mechanismus des selbsttätigen Losdrehens kann über Kenngrößen, die am Vibrationsprüfstand nach Junker entwickelt wurden, beschrieben und eingeteilt werden. Hierbei sind die Kenngrößen der kritischen Grenzverschiebung, der kritischen Querkraft und der kritischen Drehwinkelsteigung Δφ/ΔN von entscheidender Wichtigkeit. Bei konstanten Randbedingungen wird es zu einem selbsttätigen Losdrehen der Verbindung kommen, wenn der Grenzwert dieser Kenngrößen überschritten wird. Im Folgenden wird betrachtet, in wieweit die Methoden zur Ermittlung dieser kritischen Kenngrößen auf einen neuentwickelten Prüfaufbau im Axialpulser für Einschraubenverbindungen der Abmessungen M12 und M8 mit kurzen Klemmlängen übertragbar sind.
Coronavirus in human diseases: Mechanisms and advances in clinical treatment
Authors: Lin Panpan , Wang Manni , Wei Yuquan , Kim Taewan , Wei Xiawei
Published: October 2020

Coronaviruses (CoVs), a subfamily of coronavirinae, are a panel of single‐stranded RNA virus. Human coronavirus (HCoV) strains (HCoV‐229E, HCoV‐OC43, HCoV‐HKU1, HCoV‐NL63) usually cause mild upper respiratory diseases and are believed to be harmless. However, other HCoVs, associated with severe acute respiratory syndrome, Middle East respiratory syndrome, and COVID‐19, have been identified as important pathogens due to their potent infectivity and lethality worldwide. Moreover, currently, no effective antiviral drugs treatments are available so far. In this review, we summarize the biological characters of HCoVs, their association with human diseases, and current therapeutic options for the three severe HCoVs. We also highlight the discussion about novel treatment strategies for HCoVs infections.
Association Between Gestational Weight Gain and Autism Spectrum Disorder in Offspring: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Su Le , Chen Cheng , Lu Liping , Xiang Anny H. , Dodds Linda , He Ka
Published: October 2020

Objective

This study aimed to quantitatively examine the association between gestational weight gain (GWG) and risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in offspring.

Methods

Electronic databases were searched for studies of excessive or inadequate GWG, as compared with recommended GWG, in relation to the risk of ASD in offspring. Measures of the association from primary studies were pooled using a meta‐analytic approach and expressed as weighted odds ratios (ORs) with 95% CIs.

Results

Nine studies were identified, including 323,253 participants with 4,135 cases of ASD from five cohort studies and 1,462 cases and 3,265 controls from four case‐control studies. Evidence from cohort studies indicates that both excessive and inadequate GWG was significantly associated with a higher risk for ASD in offspring. The pooled OR of ASD was 1.10 (95% CI: 1.02‐1.18) for excessive GWG and 1.13 (95% CI: 1.04‐1.24) for inadequate GWG using recommended GWG as the reference. Evidence from case‐control studies suggests that excessive GWG (1.38 [95% CI: 1.19‐1.62]) but not inadequate GWG (0.87 [95% CI: 0.72‐1.04]) was significantly associated with a higher risk for ASD.

Conclusions

The accumulated evidence has supported that gaining weight outside the recommended GWG is associated with a higher risk for ASD in offspring.
Neoadjuvant Pyrotinib plus Trastuzumab and Chemotherapy for Stage I–III HER2-Positive Breast Cancer: A Phase II Clinical Trial
Authors: Xuhong Juncheng , Qi Xiaowei , Tang Peng , Fan Linjun , Chen Li , Zhang Fan , Tan Xuanni , Yan Wenting , Zhong Ling , He Cheng , Liang Yan , Ren Lin , Wang Minghao , Zhang Yi , Jiang Jun
Published: October 2020

Lessons Learned

This is the first trial to explore the neoadjuvant therapy of pyrotinib in HER2-positive operable and locally advanced breast cancer, in combination with epirubicin plus cyclophosphamide followed by docetaxel plus trastuzumab. Results primarily showed that pyrotinib in combination with epirubicin plus cyclophosphamide followed by docetaxel plus trastuzumab was effective and safe in HER2-positive operable and locally advanced breast cancer. A subsequent randomized controlled trial is still warranted to confirm these results.

Background

The efficacy and safety of neoadjuvant therapy of pyrotinib, a new irreversible tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), was first estimated in patients with HER2-positive breast cancer in this phase II study, in combination with trastuzumab and chemotherapy.

Methods

Between February 19, 2019, and November 20, 2019, 20 female Chinese patients with stage I–III HER2-positive breast cancer were assigned to receive eight cycles of neoadjuvant pyrotinib (P) in combination with four cycles of epirubicin (E) and cyclophosphamide (C) followed by four cycles of docetaxel (T) and trastuzumab (H), once every 3 weeks, referred to as P + EC-TH.

Results

A total of 19 patients completed the therapy and final surgery. The total pathological complete response (tpCR) rate was 73.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 48.8–90.9), and no recurrence or metastasis occurred during the short-term follow-up period. The objective response rate (ORR) was 100% (95% CI, 82.4–100). The most common adverse events (AEs) were diarrhea and leukopenia in 18 of 20 patients (90%), but no grade 5 AEs were reported.

Conclusion

This study showed that in HER2-positive operable or locally advanced breast cancer, the tpCR rate of P + EC-TH neoadjuvant therapy was about twice as high as that of EC-TH neoadjuvant therapy reported in other trials, with tolerable side effects.
Sustained response to erlotinib and rapamycin in a patient with pediatric anaplastic oligodendroglioma
Authors: Geben Laura C. , Mobley Bret C. , Brockman Asa A. , Pastakia Devang , Naftel Rob , Ihrie Rebecca A. , Esbenshade Adam J.
Published: October 2020

One goal of precision medicine is to identify mutations within individual tumors to design targeted treatment approaches. This report details the use of genomic testing to select a targeted therapy regimen of erlotinib and rapamycin for a pediatric anaplastic oligodendroglioma refractory to standard treatment, achieving a 33‐month sustained response. Immunohistochemical analysis of total and phosphorylated protein isoforms showed abnormal signaling consistent with detected mutations, while revealing heterogeneity in per‐cell activation of signaling pathways in multiple subpopulations of tumor cells throughout the course of disease. This case highlights molecular features that may be relevant to designing future targeted treatments.
Ultrasound‐microwave‐assisted extraction of polyphenolic compounds from Mexican “Ataulfo” mango peels: Antioxidant potential and identification by HPLC/ESI/MS
Authors: Ordoñez‐Torres Anahi , Torres‐León Cristian , Hernández‐Almanza Ayerim , Flores‐Guía Tirso , Luque‐Contreras Diana , Aguilar Cristóbal N. , Ascacio‐Valdés Juan
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Mango is used in traditional medicine in many countries. However, the processing by‐products are not currently used and generate large pollution problems and high handling costs.

Objective

To study the effect of different parameters in the extraction of polyphenolic compounds from mango peels using modern and ecological ultrasound‐microwave‐assisted extraction technology.

Methodology

Various parameters of these processes were studied: the extract was recovered by liquid chromatography using Ambetlite XAD‐16. The total polyphenol content was determined by Folin–Ciocalteu's and HCl‐butanol methods. Antioxidant activity was determined by 2,2′‐azino‐bis (3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulphonic acid (ABTS+), 1,10‐diphenyl‐2‐20‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and lipid oxidation inhibition methods. The recovered compounds were identified by high‐performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (HPLC‐MS).

Results

The best extraction conditions were solid/liquid ratio of 1/5 g/mL, ethanol percentage of 50%, and an extraction time of 10 min. Under these conditions, the total polyphenol content was 54.15 mg/g, and the antioxidant activities were greater than 90% inhibition in the three assays evaluated. According to the high‐performance liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization/mass spectrometry (HPLC/ESI/MS) analysis, nine polyphenolic compounds were identified; most of them were gallotannins, such as pentagalloyl glucose.

Conclusion

Ultrasound‐microwave‐assisted extraction was shown to be effective and allowed the recovery of antioxidant polyphenolic compounds. The results indicated that mango peel extracts can be used as natural antioxidant components in the pharmaceutical and functional food industries.
Synergistic effects of potassium channel blockers and pyrethroids: mosquitocidal activity and neuronal mode of action†
Authors: Jiang Shiyao , Bloomquist Jeffrey R
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this research was to explore the possibility of co‐applying pyrethroids (agonists of voltage‐sensitive sodium channels) with potassium channel blockers in order to potentiate the neurological effects of pyrethroids on Anopheles gambiae. We hypothesized that the toxicity of pyrethroids caused by persistent sodium currents would be augmented by blockage of outward potassium current flow, which normally repolarizes the membrane potential during a nerve membrane action potential.

RESULTS

Topical treatments with LD10s (10% mortality doses) of synergists were given with pyrethroids. 2S‐65465 (2S) showed the best synergism of permethrin (8.6‐fold) and deltamethrin (7.2‐fold), whereas piperonyl butoxide and 4‐aminopyridine only showed 2.2‐ to 3.4‐fold synergism with these pyrethroids. In electrophysiological recordings of Periplaneta americana giant axons, 2S (10 μm) and 4‐AP (30 μm) caused multiple spikes after a single stimulation. Permethrin at 10 μm showed significant summating depolarization (4.5 ± 1.1 mV) after a train of ten stimuli were applied at 5 Hz, and deltamethrin at 0.03 μm showed significant membrane depolarization of 2.9 ± 0.4 mV without stimuli. 2S at 0.3 μm and 4‐AP at 1–3 μm significantly synergized the effects of 3 μm permethrin and 0.01 μm deltamethrin.

CONCLUSIONS

Co‐application of potassium channel blockers 2S and 4‐AP with pyrethroids can synergize the mosquitocidal activities on An. gambiae, and these activities are correlated with synergistic effects at the level of the nerve membrane. If deployed in the field, this approach can potentially reduce the amount of chemicals needed for effective control of mosquitoes. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Important amino acids for function of the insect Rdl GABA receptor
Authors: Nakao Toshifumi , Banba Shinichi
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

Insect Rdl GABA receptor is an important insecticide target. To design a novel insecticide, studies on the structures of homologous pentameric ligand‐gated ion channels provide information about important amino acids that are necessary for the function of insect Rdl GABA receptors.

RESULTS

L9'A, T12'A, T13'A, T13'S, M15'S, and M15′N mutations in the Drosophila Rdl GABA receptor subunit caused the protein to spontaneously adopt the open state conformation. In contrast, the S16'A, S16′T, S17'A, and S17′H mutant homomers showed the same levels of agonist and antagonist sensitivity as the wild‐type receptor. The G336M mutation in the Drosophila Rdl GABA receptor abolished the agonist activities of ivermectin and milbemectin, but the F339M mutation did not. Additionally, the F339M mutation caused spontaneous opening of the receptor.

In the Drosophila Rdl model, the hydrophobic girdle plays an important role in stabilization of the closed state. Mutations which decrease hydrophobic interactions resulted in spontaneous opening, supporting the importance of the hydrophobic girdle for keeping the channel closed. Through a mutational study of transmembrane 3 (TM3) cytoplasmic domain and Rdl GABA receptor modeling, hydrophobic interactions between TM3 and TM4 and intersubunit interaction were demonstrated to be important for channel gating. Alternatively, the intrasubunit interaction between TM2 and TM3 domains were less important for channel gating in case of Drosophila Rdl GABA receptor.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates important amino acids critical to the function of the Drosophila Rdl GABA receptor based on the mutational studies and Drosophila Rdl GABA receptor modeling approach. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
New Phase Transitions Driven by Soft Phonon Modes for CsPbBr3: Density Functional Theory Study
Authors: Ben Sadok Raouia , Hammoutène Dalila , Plugaru Neculai
Published: October 2020

Using first‐principles lattice dynamics calculations, new phase transitions driven by soft phonon modes in CsPbBr3, from the high‐symmetry cubic structure to hypothetical structures, are predicted. The structural, electronic, and dielectric properties of the new phases are determined. A ferroelectric phase with symmetry is found to be more stable than the experimentally observed phases. It is suggested that it is a good candidate as a ground state. It is demonstrated that the out‐of‐phase rotations of the octahedra determine a more stable crystal lattice than the in‐phase rotations. All predicted structures show semiconductor character, with bandgap values between 1.44 and 1.87 eV. The bandgap increases with increasing PbBr bond length and the angle of rotation of the octahedron. The dielectric tensor, Born effective charges, and spontaneous polarization are also calculated. The optical dielectric constant shows low sensitivity to unit cell volume and symmetry of the structures. The Born effective charges are sensitive to lattice symmetry, as they are related to the directions of charge transfer between ions, whereas the cell volume has no significant effect on their values. The infrared and Raman vibration modes of the three structures are also determined.
Surface‐dependent correlated infrared observation errors and quality control in the FV3 framework
Authors: Bathmann Kristen , Collard Andrew
Published: October 2020

Data assimilation relies on the accurate representation of both observation‐ and background‐error statistics. In this study, the Desroziers diagnostic is used to estimate error covariance matrices for CrIS and IASI brightness temperature observations over land and sea surfaces. Infrared observations have different error characteristics over different surface types, which warrant separate treatments. Over land, correlations between surface‐sensitive channels tend to be much larger than over sea, and there may even be strong anti‐correlations between certain channel groups. After reconditioning the matrices, they are used in several forecast experiments in the National Centers for Environmental Prediction's Finite Volume Cubed‐Sphere Dynamical Core Global Forecast System (FV3GFS). With the incorporation of the new covariance matrices, upgrades to the infrared quality control procedures are re‐examined. In particular, stricter cloud detection which relies on the new, smaller, observation errors is studied. It is found that for IASI, accounting for error correlations generally has a positive forecast impact which is enhanced by the new cloud detection scheme. For CrIS, successfully accounting for error correlations necessitates stricter cloud detection. In the next implementation of the FV3GFS (version 16), correlated error for IASI and CrIS will become operational.
Theoretical evaluation of chemical and physical feasibility of an in situ ultrasonic reactor for remediation of groundwater contaminated with per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances
Authors: Laramay Fiona , Crimi Michelle
Published: October 2020

Per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been found in air, water, and soil globally. Groundwater is used as a drinking water supply in many locations and PFAS detections in groundwater occur frequently. Cavitation occurs when ultrasound is applied to liquids and has been shown to be effective for PFAS degradation. Sonolysis is often used to describe the cavity collapse that occurs after cavity expansion. An ideal scenario implements sonolysis in a horizontal well, which allows passive capture of contaminated water while reducing the costs and hazards associated with ex situ remediation. Four PFAS‐contaminated site groundwaters were treated in the sonolytic reactor in the laboratory. Data from those experiments were used in a series of hypothetical case studies to evaluate the influence of chemical and physical properties on feasibility of installation of a novel in situ sonolytic reactor. When PFAS precursor species and perfluorobutanoic acid were included in the remediation goals they were found to drive the hydraulic retention times necessary for effective treatment compared to longer‐chain PFAS. Improved implementation efficiency occurred when the target treatment area was restricted to a concentrated source zone, rather than less concentrated areas of the downgradient plume.
Disaster Risk Perception of University Students
Authors: Mızrak Sefa , Aslan Ramazan
Published: October 2020

Stakeholders responsible for disaster management need to understand students' disaster risk perception in order to increase community resilience. The aim of this study was to develop a scale to determine disaster risk perception of university students on campus and to investigate the disaster risk perception of the students of Gümüşhane University in Turkey. The data of the study were collected from 617 students and analyzed by means of SPSS and AMOS programs. Descriptive statistics, factor analysis, Mann–Whitney U test, Kruskal–Wallis H test, and structural equation model were applied. Consequently, a valid and reliable scale consisting of four factors (exposure, anxiety, effect, and uncontrollable) was obtained. According to the students, rockfall was most likely to occur on campus. Gender and type of school had a significant effect on disaster risk perception, while disaster experience, disaster education, disaster volunteer, and class level did not have a significant effect on disaster risk perception. Students with chronic illness had significantly higher perceptions of the uncontrollable. The structural equation model showed that exposure, effect, and uncontrollable were significant and positive predictors of anxiety.
Coping associated with compulsive buying tendency
Authors: Lawrence Lee M. , Elphinstone Bradley
Published: October 2020

Research on general coping is limited within compulsive buying (CB) literature. Nevertheless, other behavioural addictions and hoarding might provide insights into coping in CB. One‐hundred and ninety‐nine participants (M age = 52.72, SD = 16.06; 50.3% female, 1% unknown sex) completed online questionnaires. Mental and behavioural disengagements were hypothesized to predict greater self‐reported CB tendency. Whilst these relationships were found in the correlations, a regression analysis indicated that only mental disengagement significantly predicted CB tendency. Additionally, the exploration of denial and substance use identified that denial was an important predictor of CB tendency coping. The relationship between CB tendency and substance use could not be explored given the large degree of participants reporting minimal scores. CB tendency is associated with maladaptive mental disengagement, denial and lack of acceptance coping strategies, which could be useful to consider in therapy.
Linnaeus, the essentialism story, and the question of types
Authors: Witteveen Joeri
Published: October 2020

According to an influential twentieth‐century narrative, Linnaeus's taxonomic endeavors rested on a suspect metaphysical basis of “typological thinking” or “essentialism”. Since the beginning of this century, historians and philosophers have shown that this narrative is deeply problematic and fails to be supported by the close study of Linnaeus's actual taxonomic principles and practices. Magnus Lidén has recently argued inTaxonthat this revisionist literature on Linnaeus nevertheless preserves a residue of unwarranted attributions of typological thinking aimed at Linnaeus. I argue that this is incorrect and contend that Lidén misinterprets the recent literature on the history of “type concepts” in taxonomy, which has nothing to do with typological thinking. With this article, I hope to show that the historiography of taxonomy is helped, not hindered, by enquiring into Linnaeus's use of certain type concepts and his unfamiliarity with others.
A Hybrid Model for Nonlinear Regression with Missing Data Using Quasilinear Kernel
Authors: Zhu Huilin , Tian Yanling , Ren Yanni , Hu Jinglu
Published: October 2020

In both the research and engineering fields, missing data is a serious problem that cannot be overlooked. Therefore, available datasets with missing data are a challenge to be modeled by conventional global prediction models. In this paper, we propose a hybrid model consisting of an autoencoder and a gated linear network for solving the regression problem under missing value scenario. A sophisticated modeling and identifying algorithm is developed. First, an extended affinity propagation (AP) clustering algorithm is applied to obtain a self‐organized competitive net dividing the datasets into several clusters. Second, a multiple imputation tool with top p% winner‐take‐all denoising autoencoders (DAE) is introduced to realize better predictions of missing values, in which rough estimates of missing values by using the mean imputation and similarity method within the clusters are used as teacher signals of DAE. Finally, a gated linear network is designed to construct a piecewise linear regression model with interpolations in the exact same way as a support vector regression with a quasilinear kernel composed using the cluster information obtained in the AP clustering step. Based on the experiments of five datasets, our proposed method demonstrates its effectiveness and robustness compared with other traditional kernels and state‐of‐the‐art methods, even on datasets with a large percentage of missing values. © 2020 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Developing a Frequency‐selective Piezoelectric Acoustic Sensor Sensitive to the Audible Frequency Range of Rodents
Authors: Kuwano Takumi , Kaneta Hiroki , Nishikawa Jun , Satoh Kazuo , Murakami Shuichi , Tateno Takashi
Published: October 2020

We have developed a piezoelectric acoustic sensor that responds to rodents' audible frequency range as a front‐end device for a small hearing prosthesis system appropriate for animal experiments. The proposed piezoelectric transducer uses a biomimetic hearing mechanism that mimics bandpass‐filtering functions realized biologically in the cochlear membranes and hair cells of rodents via a frequency‐selective piezoelectric cantilever beam array that will be used to stimulate auditory neurons in future applications to humans. First, to examine the frequency selectivity and response sensitivity, a piezoelectric acoustic transducer having a cantilever array structure with multiple beams were designed, and the mechanical resonance properties of the sensor‐device structure were analyzed using a numerical calculation method. Next, on the basis of the numerical results, we proposed a practical acoustic sensor design and sensor construction method using a multiple cantilever array structure and piezoelectric material. We built the sensor using standard microfabrication techniques and evaluated its piezoelectric properties in terms of sound sensitivity. Finally, we addressed future applications of an integrated system containing the proposed acoustic sensor, which could be combined with an electrical stimulation system and used as an auditory prosthesis system to compensate hearing losses in rodent models with hearing disorders and diseases. © 2020 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Unravelling the richness of dark sector by FASERν
Authors: Bakhti Pouya , Farzan Yasaman , Pascoli Silvia
Published: October 2020

Abstract

FASERν is a newly proposed experiment which will take data in run III of the LHC during 2021–2023. It will be located in front of the FASER detector, 480 m away from the ATLAS interaction point in the forward direction. Its main goal is to detect neutrinos of all flavors produced at the interaction point with superb precision in reconstructing charged tracks. This capability makes FASERν an ideal setup for uncovering the pattern and properties of a light dark sector. We demonstrate this capability for a well-motivated class of models with a dark matter candidate of mass around a few GeV. Dark matter annihilates to a pair of intermediate neutral particles that subsequently decay into the standard model charged fermions. We show how FASERν can shed light on the structure of the dark sector by unravelling the decay chain within such models.
Therapie einer extremen Anämie mit vernetztem Rinderhämoglobin
Authors: Meiser A. , Knoll H. , Meisel T. , Schröder M. , Volk T.
Published: October 2020

Eine 29-jährige Zeugin Jehovas erlitt nach intrauterinem Fruchttod in der 25. Schwangerschaftswoche ein akutes Nierenversagen und eine schwere Anämie, bedingt durch Blutverlust und Hämolyse, erlitt. Wegen ihrer religiösen Überzeugung lehnte die Patientin Bluttransfusionen kategorisch ab. Trotz Umsetzung aller Empfehlungen des Patient Blood Management fiel der Hämoglobin(Hb)-Wert kontinuierlich. Am Tag 10 wurde sie bei Hb 1,9 g/dl plötzlich bewusstlos und musste intubiert und beatmet werden. Wegen organprotektiver Effekte und der guten Steuerbarkeit wurde sie inhalativ mit Isofluran sediert. Isofluran ermöglichte jeweils eine rasche neurologische Beurteilbarkeit in Sedierungsfenstern sowie eine regelmäßige, ruhige Spontanatmung bei tiefer Sedierung mit reduziertem Sauerstoffverbrauch. Als Ausdruck einer posthypoxischen Enzephalopathie zeigte sie in den Sedierungsfenstern Krampfanfälle, die im EEG bestätigt und antikonvulsiv behandelt wurden. Bei Hb 1,8 g/dl erhielt sie 2 Infusionsbeutel mit polymerisiertem bovinem Hämoglobin (Hemopure®, Fa. Hemoglobin Oxygen Therapeutics LLC, Souderton, PA, USA), wegen der kurzen Halbwertszeit mehrmals wiederholt an den Folgetagen. Eine beachtliche Methämoglobinämie wurde festgestellt. Auch nach Abzug des Met-Hb zeigten sich Hb-Anstiege um 0,4–0,8 g/dl nach den Gaben. Die Sauerstoffbindungskapazität des Blutes konnte damit initial um 33 % gesteigert werden. Es kam zu einer vollständigen neurologischen Erholung, und die Patientin wurde schließlich vom Respirator entwöhnt, jedoch weiterhin dialysepflichtig nach 38 Tagen in eine andere Klink verlegt.

Wenn die Gabe von Fremdblut keine Option darstellt, kann durch Gabe von polymerisiertem bovinem Hämoglobin als Ultima-Ratio-Therapie die Sauerstofftransportkapazität vorübergehend erhöht werden. Eine inhalative Sedierung mit Isofluran zur Senkung des Sauerstoffverbrauchs erscheint gleichermaßen vorteilhaft.
Kleinwuchssyndrome – potenziell lebensbedrohliche Erkrankungen
Authors: Mittendorf L. , Schulz M. , Stoltze A. , Stein R. , Starke S. , Abou Jamra R. , Körner A. , Pfäffle R. , Kiess W.
Published: October 2020

Hintergrund

Es gibt viele Ursachen für einen Kleinwuchs. Kleinwuchs in Kombination mit einer intrauterinen Wachstumsretardierung (IUGR), einer Entwicklungsverzögerung und/oder ungewöhnlichen Stigmata sollte immer auch an eine syndromale Ursache denken lassen.

Fragestellung

Diese Arbeit soll für Kleinwuchssyndrome sensibilisieren, deren Diagnose aufgrund der potenziell lebensbedrohlichen Folgen möglichst frühzeitig gestellt werden sollte.

Material und Methoden

Die vorliegende Arbeit wurde auf Basis klinikinterner Fallberichte vor dem Hintergrund der aktuellen Literatur erstellt.

Ergebnisse

Das PTEN-Hamartom-Tumor-Syndrom (PHTS), das Bloom-Syndrom (BS), der mikrozephale osteodysplastische primordiale Kleinwuchs Typ II (MOPD-II-Syndrom) sowie das Ligase-IV-Syndrom (Lig4-Syndrom) sind seltene Kleinwuchssyndrome mit potenziell letalem Ausgang. Gemeinsame Merkmale liegen in einer Abweichung des Kopfumfangs (KU) und einer Entwicklungsverzögerung. Die Verdachtsdiagnose wird molekulargenetisch gesichert. Die Behandlung erfolgt in erster Linie symptomorientiert, für das PHTS und das Ligase-IV-Syndrom existieren darüber hinaus bereits kausale Therapieansätze. Für alle Syndrome gibt es Empfehlungen im Hinblick auf gezielte Vorsorgeuntersuchungen.

Schlussfolgerung

Bei entsprechenden Hinweisen auf einen syndromalen Kleinwuchs sollte zügig eine molekulargenetisch gestützte Diagnostik erfolgen, um rechtzeitig geeignete Therapieoptionen und Vorsorgeprogramme initiieren zu können.
Modified Lefort partial colpocleisis
Authors: Lv Hongtao , Rong Fengnian
Published: October 2020

Introduction and hypothesis

We present a surgical video that describes the technical considerations for performing a modified LeFort partial colpocleisis.

Methods

Hydro-dissection with diluted pituitrin was performed before the creation of anterior and posterior mid-line incisions through which lateral flaps were created bilaterally to expose the bladder and rectum fascia. Several purse-string sutures were placed to push the bladder and rectum back to their normal positions and reinforce the fascia under the vaginal wall. After removing the excess part of the vaginal wall, the lateral margins were re-approximated to create lateral channels that were wide enough to fit one finger. Perineoplasty was then performed to reduce the length of the genital hiatus.

Results

The procedure was performed in a 76-year-old woman with stage III vaginal vault prolapse (POP-Q C + 2), stage IV anterior prolapse (POP-Q Ba+5), stage II posterior prolapse (POP-Q Bp-1), and mild occult stress urinary incontinence. The patient recovered well postoperatively, without recurrent prolapse and/or stress incontinence during 6 months of follow-up.

Conclusions

Our modified technique used traditional suture methods to strengthen the bladder and rectum fascia, keeping most of the vaginal wall to create a solid longitudinal septum in the center of the vagina that supported the vaginal vault.
Intraoperative cone beam computed tomography is as reliable as conventional computed tomography for identification of pedicle screw breach in thoracolumbar spine surgery
Authors: Burström Gustav , Cewe Paulina , Charalampidis Anastasios , Nachabe Rami , Söderman Michael , Gerdhem Paul , Elmi-Terander Adrian , Edström Erik
Published: October 2020

Objectives

To test the hypothesis that intraoperative cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) using the Allura augmented reality surgical navigation (ARSN) system in a dedicated hybrid operating room (OR) matches computed tomography (CT) for identification of pedicle screw breach during spine surgery.

Methods

Twenty patients treated with spinal fixation surgery (260 screws) underwent intraoperative CBCT as well as conventional postoperative CT scans (median 12 months after surgery) to identify and grade the degree of pedicle screw breach on both scan types, according to the Gertzbein grading scale. Blinded assessments were performed by three independent spine surgeons and the CT served as the standard of reference. Screws graded as Gertzbein 0 or 1 were considered clinically accurate while grades 2 or 3 were considered inaccurate. Sensitivity, specificity, and negative predictive value were the primary metrics of diagnostic performance.

Results

For this patient group, the negative predictive value of an intraoperative CBCT to rule out pedicle screw breach was 99.6% (CI 97.75–99.99%). Among 10 screws graded as inaccurate on CT, 9 were graded as such on the CBCT, giving a sensitivity of 90.0% (CI 55.5–99.75%). Among the 250 screws graded as accurate on CT, 244 were graded as such on the CBCT, giving a specificity of 97.6% (CI 94.85–99.11%).

Conclusions

CBCT, performed intraoperatively with the Allura ARSN system, is comparable and non-inferior to a conventional postoperative CT scan for ruling out misplaced pedicle screws in spinal deformity cases, eliminating the need for a postoperative CT.

Key Points

• Intraoperative cone beam computed tomography (CT) using the Allura ARSN is comparable with conventional CT for ruling out pedicle screw breaches after spinal fixation surgery.

• Intraoperative cone beam computed tomography can be used to assess need for revisions of pedicle screws making routine postoperative CT scans unnecessary.

• Using cone beam computed tomography, the specificity was 97.6% and the sensitivity was 90% for detecting pedicle screw breaches and the negative predictive value for ruling out a pedicle screw breach was 99.6%.