bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Pragmatic Machine Learning Model To Predict Carbapenem Resistance
Authors: McGuire Ryan J. , Yu Sean C. , Payne Philip R. O. , Lai Albert M. , Vazquez-Guillamet M. Cristina , Kollef Marin H. , Michelson Andrew P.
Published: May 2021

Infection caused by carbapenem-resistant (CR) organisms is a rising problem in the United States. While the risk factors for antibiotic resistance are well known, there remains a large need for the early identification of antibiotic-resistant infections.
Supplemental Material: Early and middle Miocene ice sheet dynamics in the Ross Sea: Results from integrated core-log-seismic interpretation
Authors: Pérez L F , al. et
Published: May 2021

Additional information regarding methods (Reflection seismic processing, Drill-site measurements, Core-log-seismic correlations, Spatial Velocity calculations, and Reflection Tomography model) and regional stratigraphy descriptions, as well as detailed considerations regarding the opal distribution and depth.
Prospective comparison of thermometers used in very preterm infants
Authors: Dunne Emma A , O'Donnell Colm Patrick Finbarr , McCarthy Lisa K
Published: May 2021

We measured temperature on admission to the neonatal unit in a cohort of 54 very preterm infants. We measured rectal temperature with a digital thermometer (Microlife MT-1931) as the gold standard (MT-R). We also measured axillary temperature with the MT (MT-A), with the Welch Allyn SureTemp Plus 692 in ‘continuous’ (WAC) mode and in the default ‘predictive’ (WAP) mode. While MT-A and WAC frequently differed from MT-R by ≥0.3°C, they were both reasonably sensitive and specific for hypothermia (MT-R <36.5°C). WAP overestimated MT-R by ≥0.5°C on 37/53 (70%) occasions and had poor sensitivity for hypothermia, identifying only 2 of 29 infants with MT-R <36.5°C as hypothermic.
Automated control of oxygen titration in preterm infants on non-invasive respiratory support
Authors: Dargaville Peter A , Marshall Andrew P , Ladlow Oliver J , Bannink Charlotte , Jayakar Rohan , Eastwood-Sutherland Caillin , Lim Kathleen , Ali Sanoj K M , Gale Timothy J
Published: May 2021

Objective

To evaluate the performance of a rapidly responsive adaptive algorithm (VDL1.1) for automated oxygen control in preterm infants with respiratory insufficiency.

Design

Interventional cross-over study of a 24-hour period of automated oxygen control compared with aggregated data from two flanking periods of manual control (12 hours each).

Setting

Neonatal intensive care unit.

Participants

Preterm infants receiving non-invasive respiratory support and supplemental oxygen; median birth gestation 27 weeks (IQR 26–28) and postnatal age 17 (12–23) days.

Intervention

Automated oxygen titration with the VDL1.1 algorithm, with the incoming SpO2 signal derived from a standard oximetry probe, and the computed inspired oxygen concentration (FiO2) adjustments actuated by a motorised blender. The desired SpO2 range was 90%–94%, with bedside clinicians able to make corrective manual FiO2 adjustments at all times.

Main outcome measures

Target range (TR) time (SpO2 90%–94% or 90%–100% if in air), periods of SpO2 deviation, number of manual FiO2 adjustments and oxygen requirement were compared between automated and manual control periods.

Results

In 60 cross-over studies in 35 infants, automated oxygen titration resulted in greater TR time (manual 58 (51–64)% vs automated 81 (72–85)%, p<0.001), less time at both extremes of oxygenation and considerably fewer prolonged hypoxaemic and hyperoxaemic episodes. The algorithm functioned effectively in every infant. Manual FiO2 adjustments were infrequent during automated control (0.11 adjustments/hour), and oxygen requirements were similar (manual 28 (25–32)% and automated 26 (24–32)%, p=0.13).

Conclusion

The VDL1.1 algorithm was safe and effective in SpO2 targeting in preterm infants on non-invasive respiratory support.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12616000300471.
Older-onset levodopa-responsive parkinsonism with normal DAT-SPECT and pterin hypometabolism
Authors: Togo Kazuyuki , Ishihara Toshiya , Yamamoto Kenji , Sawada Hideyuki
Published: May 2021

Pterin species participate in dopamine biosynthesis, and abnormal pteridine metabolism contributes to reduced dopamine. GTP cyclohydrolase 1 (GCH-1) deficiency, which triggers pteridine hypometabolism and normally develops in childhood, can mediate an adult-onset decrease in levodopa production and dopa-responsive dystonia (DRD), with normal dopamine transporter single-photon emission computed tomography (DAT-SPECT). A recent study described normal DAT-SPECT in adult-onset cases with GCH-1 mutations, clinically diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, which raises the possibility that the abnormal metabolism of pteridine may be a differential diagnosis for adult-onset parkinsonism. We report an older patient with levodopa-responsive parkinsonism with normal DAT-SPECT, or scans without evidence of dopamine deficit (SWEDD), whose biochemical analysis showed pterin hypometabolism, which occurs in GCH-1-deficient DRD. Surprisingly, this patient presented no dystonia or GCH-1 gene mutation or deletion. This case suggests that low pterin metabolism should be considered in older-onset levodopa-responsive parkinsonism with normal DAT-SPECT, even without GCH-1 mutations or deletions.
Novel maxillary enlargement technique in congenital nasal pyriform aperture stenosis: a case report and literature review
Authors: Hallikainen Joona , Seppa Juha , Kellokoski Jari
Published: May 2021

Congenital nasal pyriform aperture stenosis (CNPAS) is a rare cause of neonate nasal obstruction. Because newborns are natural nasal breathers, urgent treatment may be needed. CNPAS is diagnosed by clinical symptoms and signs, and CT. In severe cases, surgical approach is needed. The most often used approach is widening of pyriform aperture via sublabial incision with nasal tubing. We report a novel surgical approach as a curative treatment for CNPAS by immediate transverse enlargement of the maxilla. We also review current literature of the condition focusing on surgical management of the disease.
Response patterns for individuals receiving contingent skin shock aversion intervention to treat violent self-injurious and assaultive behaviours
Authors: Yadollahikhales Golnaz , Blenkush Nathan , Cunningham Miles
Published: May 2021

A small proportion of patients with intellectual disabilities (IDs) and/or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) exhibit extraordinarily dangerous self-injurious and assaultive behaviours that persist despite long-term multidisciplinary interventions. These uncontrolled behaviours result in physical and emotional trauma to the patients, care providers and family members. A graduated electronic decelerator (GED) is an aversive therapy device that has been shown to reduce the frequency of severe problem behaviours by 97%. Within a cohort of 173 patients, we have identified the four most common patterns of response: (1) on removal of GED, behaviours immediately return, and GED is reinstated; (2) GED is removed for periods of time (faded) and reinstated if and when behaviours return; (3) a low frequency of GED applications maintains very low rates of problem behaviours; and (4) GED is removed permanently after cessation of problem behaviours. GED is intended as a therapeutic option only for violent, treatment-resistant patients with ID and ASD.
Chylothorax as a complication of Waldenström macroglobulinaemia with a patient’s perspective
Authors: Gary Phillip , Gianniosis Margarita , Ryu Jay , Flynn Samantha
Published: May 2021

Chylothorax has rarely been reported as a pleuropulmonary complication of Waldenström macroglobulinaemia (WM). In general, when a unilateral effusion is discovered particularly in patients with a history of cancer or active malignancy, a broad differential including chylothorax needs to be considered. We present the case of a 50-year-old woman found to have chylothorax secondary to progression of WM as confirmed by cytology and presence of MYD88 L265P mutation in the pleural fluid specimen and subsequent resolution with chemotherapy. This review centres particularly on non-traumatic causes of chylothorax with a focus on WM and includes a unique patient perspective.
COVID-19 response by the Hopi Tribe: impact of systems improvement during the first wave on the second wave of the pandemic
Authors: Humeyestewa Duane , Burke Rachel M. , Kaur Harpriya , Vicenti Darren , Jenkins Royce , Yatabe Graydon , Hirschman Jocelyn , Hamilton Joyce , Fazekas Kathleen , Leslie Gary , Sehongva Gregory , Honanie Kay , Tu’tsi Edison , Mayer Oren , Rose Michelle Ann , Diallo Yvette , Damon Scott , Zilversmit Pao Leah , McCraw H Mac , Talawyma Bruce , Herne Mose , Nuvangyaoma Timothy L , Welch Seh , Balajee S Arunmozhi
Published: May 2021

The Hopi Tribe is a sovereign nation home to ~7500 Hopi persons living primarily in 12 remote villages. The Hopi Tribe, like many other American Indian nations, has been disproportionately affected by COVID-19. On 18 May 2020, a team from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) was deployed on the request of the tribe in response to increases in COVID-19 cases. Collaborating with Hopi Health Care Center (the reservation’s federally run Indian Health Service health facility) and CDC, the Hopi strengthened public health systems and response capacity from May to August including: (1) implementing routine COVID-19 surveillance reporting; (2) establishing the Hopi Incident Management Authority for rapid coordination and implementation of response activities across partners; (3) implementing a community surveillance programme to facilitate early case detection and educate communities on COVID-19 prevention; and (4) applying innovative communication strategies to encourage mask wearing, hand hygiene and physical distancing. These efforts, as well as community adherence to mitigation measures, helped to drive down cases in August. As cases increased in September–November, the improved capacity gained during the first wave of the pandemic enabled the Hopi leadership to have real-time awareness of the changing epidemiological landscape. This prompted rapid response coordination, swift scale up of health communications and redeployment of the community surveillance programme. The Hopi experience in strengthening their public health systems to better confront COVID-19 may be informative to other indigenous peoples as they also respond to COVID-19 within the context of disproportionate burden.
Effects of beta-blockers on archery performance, body sway and aiming behaviour
Authors: Ergen Emin , Hazir Tahir , Celebi Mesut , Kin-Isler Ayşe , Aritan Serdar , Yaylıoglu Volkan Daghan , Guner Rustu , Acikada Caner , Cinemre Alpan
Published: May 2021

Objectives

This study aimed to determine the effect of selective (bisoprolol-5 mg) and non-selective (propranolol-40 mg) beta-blockers on archery performance, body sway and aiming behaviour.

Methods

Fifteen male archers participated in a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study and competed four times (control, placebo, selective (bisoprolol) and non-selective (propranolol) beta-blocker trials). Mechanical data related to the changes in the centre of pressure during body sway and aim point fluctuation and when shooting was collected. During the shots, heart rate was recorded continuously.

Results

Results indicated that, in beta-blocker trials, although shooting heart rates were lowered by 12.8% and 8.6%, respectively, for bisoprolol and propranolol, no positive effect of beta-blockers was observed on shooting scores. Also, the use of beta-blockers did not affect shooting behaviour and body sway.

Conclusion

The use of either selective or non-selective single dose beta-blockers had no positive effect on shooting performance in archery during simulated match conditions.
Prognostic value of lower bone mineral density in predicting adverse cardiovascular disease in Asian women
Authors: Park Jiesuck , Yoon Yeonyee Elizabeth , Kim Kyoung Min , Hwang In-Chang , Lee Wonjae , Cho Goo-Yeong
Published: May 2021

Objective

We investigated whether the evaluation of bone mineral density (BMD) provides independent and incremental prognostic value for predicting atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) in women.

Methods

A total of 12 681 women aged 50–80 years (mean, 63.0±7.8 years) who underwent dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry were retrospectively analysed. We assessed the hazard ratio (HR) for ASCVD events (ASCVD death, non-fatal myocardial infarction and ischaemic stroke) according to the BMD or a clinical diagnosis of osteopenia or osteoporosis, with adjustment for clinical risk factors, including age, body mass index, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, hyperlipidaemia, current smoking and previous fracture. We also evaluated whether the addition of BMD or a clinical diagnosis of osteopenia or osteoporosis to clinical risk factors improved the prediction for ASCVD events.

Results

In total, 468 women (3.7%) experienced ASCVD events during follow-up (median, 9.2 years). Lower BMD at the lumbar spine, femur neck and total hip was independently associated with higher risk for ASCVD events (adjusted HR per 1-standard deviation decrease in BMD: 1.16, p<0.001; 1.29, p<0.001; 1.38, p<0.001; respectively). A clinical diagnosis of osteoporosis was also independently associated with higher risk for ASCVD events (adjusted HR: 1.79, p<0.001). The addition of BMD or a clinical diagnosis of osteopenia or osteoporosis to clinical risk factors demonstrated significant incremental value in discriminating ASCVD events (addition of total hip BMD, p for difference <0.001).

Conclusion

The evaluation of BMD provides independent and incremental prognostic value for ASCVD in women and thus may improve risk stratification in women.
Predicting anti-PD-1 responders in malignant melanoma from the frequency of S100A9+ monocytes in the blood
Authors: Rad Pour Soudabeh , Pico de Coaña Yago , Demorentin Xavier Martinez , Melief Jeroen , Thimma Manjula , Wolodarski Maria , Gomez-Cabrero David , Hansson Johan , Kiessling Rolf , Tegner Jesper
Published: May 2021

Background

While programmed cell death receptor 1 (PD-1) blockade treatment has revolutionized treatment of patients with melanoma, clinical outcomes are highly variable, and only a fraction of patients show durable responses. Therefore, there is a clear need for predictive biomarkers to select patients who will benefit from the treatment.

Method

To identify potential predictive markers for response to PD-1 checkpoint blockade immunotherapy, we conducted single-cell RNA sequencing analyses of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) (n=8), as well as an in-depth immune monitoring study (n=20) by flow cytometry in patients with advanced melanoma undergoing treatment with nivolumab at Karolinska University Hospital. Blood samples were collected before the start of treatment and at the time of the second dose.

Results

Unbiased single-cell RNA sequencing of PBMC in patients with melanoma uncovered that a higher frequency of monocytes and a lower ratio of CD4+ T cells to monocyte were inversely associated with overall survival. Similarly, S100A9 expression in the monocytic subset was correlated inversely with overall survival. These results were confirmed by a flow cytometry-based analysis in an independent patient cohort.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that monocytic cell populations can critically determine the outcome of PD-1 blockade, particularly the subset expressing S100A9, which should be further explored as a possible predictive biomarker. Detailed knowledge of the biological role of S100A9+ monocytes is of high translational relevance.
Immune cell composition and functional marker dynamics from multiplexed immunohistochemistry to predict response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in the WSG-ADAPT-TN trial
Authors: Graeser Monika , Feuerhake Friedrich , Gluz Oleg , Volk Valery , Hauptmann Michael , Jozwiak Katarzyna , Christgen Matthias , Kuemmel Sherko , Grischke Eva-Maria , Forstbauer Helmut , Braun Michael , Warm Mathias , Hackmann John , Uleer Christoph , Aktas Bahriye , Schumacher Claudia , Kolberg-Liedtke Cornelia , Kates Ronald , Wuerstlein Rachel , Nitz Ulrike , Kreipe Hans Heinrich , Harbeck Nadia
Published: May 2021

Background

The association of early changes in the immune infiltrate during neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) with pathological complete response (pCR) in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) remains unexplored.

Methods

Multiplexed immunohistochemistry was performed in matched tumor biopsies obtained at baseline and after 3 weeks of NACT from 66 patients from the West German Study Group Adjuvant Dynamic Marker-Adjusted Personalized Therapy Trial Optimizing Risk Assessment and Therapy Response Prediction in Early Breast Cancer - Triple Negative Breast Cancer (WSG-ADAPT-TN) trial. Association between CD4, CD8, CD73, T cells, PD1-positive CD4 and CD8 cells, and PDL1 levels in stroma and/or tumor at baseline, week 3 and 3-week change with pCR was evaluated with univariable logistic regression.

Results

Compared with no change in immune cell composition and functional markers, transition from ‘cold’ to ‘hot’ (below-median and above-median marker level at baseline, respectively) suggested higher pCR rates for PD1-positive CD4 (tumor: OR=1.55, 95% CI 0.45 to 5.42; stroma: OR=2.65, 95% CI 0.65 to 10.71) and PD1-positive CD8 infiltrates (tumor: OR=1.77, 95% CI 0.60 to 5.20; stroma: OR=1.25, 95% CI 0.41 to 3.84; tumor+stroma: OR=1.62, 95% CI 0.51 to 5.12). No pCR was observed after ‘hot-to-cold’ transition in PD1-positive CD8 cells. pCR rates appeared lower after hot-to-cold transitions in T cells (tumor: OR=0.26, 95% CI 0.03 to 2.34; stroma: OR=0.35, 95% CI 0.04 to 3.25; tumor+stroma: OR=0.00, 95% CI 0.00 to 1.04) and PD1-positive CD4 cells (tumor: OR=0.60, 95% CI 0.11 to 3.35; stroma: OR=0.22, 95% CI 0.03 to 1.92; tumor+stroma: OR=0.32, 95% CI 0.04 to 2.94). Higher pCR rates collated with ‘altered’ distribution (levels below-median and above-median in tumor and stroma, respectively) of T cell (OR=3.50, 95% CI 0.84 to 14.56) and PD1-positive CD4 cells (OR=4.50, 95% CI 1.01 to 20.14).

Conclusion

Our exploratory findings indicate that comprehensive analysis of early immune infiltrate dynamics complements currently investigated predictive markers for pCR and may have a potential to improve guidance for individualized de-escalation/escalation strategies in TNBC.
Euthanasia and organ donation still firmly connected: reply to Bollen et al
Authors: Buturovic Zeljka
Published: May 2021

Bollen et al, replying to my own article, describe, in great detail, administrative and logistical aspects of euthanasia approval and organ donation in the Netherlands. They seem to believe that no useful lessons can be drawn from experiences of related groups such as euthanasia patients (typically patients with cancer) who cannot donate organs; patients who chose assisted suicide as opposed to euthanasia; patients in intensive care units and their relatives and suicidal young people as if we can only learn about organ donation in euthanasia patients by studying this exact group and no other, no matter how closely related and obviously relevant. However, it is not only permissible but also absolutely essential to gather evidence that goes beyond immediate point of interest and carefully study groups that share important features with it. Also, groups eligible for euthanasia are constantly expanding, theoretically, legally and practically, and it would be irresponsible to not foresee what are likely future developments. Finally, myopic focus on the technicalities of the procedure misses psychological reality that drives decisions and behaviours and which rarely mimics administrative timelines. Patients proceeding through euthanasia pipeline already face substantial situational pressure and adding organ donation on top of it can make the whole process work as a commitment device. By allowing euthanasia patients to donate their organs, we are giving them additional reason to end their lives, thus creating an unbreakable connection between the two.
Lemierre’s syndrome
Authors: Foo Eng Chuan , Tanti Matthew , Cliffe Helen , Randall Marc
Published: May 2021

Lemierre’s syndrome is a rare and potentially life-threatening condition that follows an oropharyngeal infection, typically fromFusobacterium necrophorum,and usually affects healthy adolescents or young adults. The characteristic features are septic thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein and septic embolism leading to multiorgan involvement, commonly the brain, lungs and bones. We report a man with presenting symptoms suggesting hemicrania continua, whose initial imaging showed no features of dural venous sinus or jugular thrombosis. Two weeks later, he had fever, sore throat, cervical lymphadenopathy andActinomyces meyerigrew from peripheral blood cultures. Further imaging identified thrombosis of the internal jugular vein and cerebral venous sinuses, with multifocal cavitating lung lesions. Following antibiotics and anticoagulation, he recovered without residual deficits. Lemierre’s syndrome when recognised and treated early has a good prognosis but delayed treatment may result in significant morbidity or mortality.
Effect of nusinersen on respiratory function in paediatric spinal muscular atrophy types 1–3
Authors: Chacko Archana , Sly Peter D , Ware Robert S , Begum Nelufa , Deegan Sean , Thomas Nicole , Gauld Leanne M
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Nusinersen is used in spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) to improve peripheral muscle function; however, respiratory effects are largely unknown.

Aim

To assess the effects of nusinersen on respiratory function in paediatric SMA during first year of treatment.

Methods

A prospective observational study in paediatric patients with SMA who began receiving nusinersen in Queensland, Australia, from June 2018 to December 2019. Outcomes assessed were the age-appropriate respiratory investigations: spirometry, oscillometry, sniff nasal inspiratory pressure, mean inspiratory pressure, mean expiratory pressure, lung clearance index, as well as polysomnography (PSG) and muscle function testing. Lung function was collected retrospectively for up to 2 years prior to nusinersen initiation. Change in lung function was assessed using mixed effects linear regression models, while PSG and muscle function were compared using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test.

Results

Twenty-eight patients (15 male, aged 0.08–18.58 years) were enrolled: type 1 (n=7); type 2 (n=12); type 3 (n=9). The annual rate of decline in FVC z-score prior to nusinersen initiation was −0.58 (95% CI −0.75 to −0.41), and post initiation was −0.25 (95% CI −0.46 to −0.03), with a significant difference in rate of decline (0.33 (95% CI 0.02 to 0.66) (p=0.04)). Most lung function measures were largely unchanged in the year post nusinersen initiation. The total Apnoea–Hypopnoea Index (AHI) was reduced from a median of 5.5 events/hour (IQR 2.1–10.1) at initiation to 2.7 events/hour (IQR 0.7–5.3) after 1 year (p=0.02). All SMA type 1% and 75% of SMA types 2 and 3 had pre-defined peripheral muscle response to nusinersen.

Conclusion

The first year of nusinersen treatment saw reduced lung function decline (especially in type 2) and improvement in AHI.
JUUL ‘new technology’ pods exhibit greater electrical power and nicotine output than previous devices
Authors: Karam Ebrahim , Talih Soha , Salman Rola , El-Hage Rachel , Karaoghlanian Nareg , El-Hellani Ahmad , Saliba Najat , Shihadeh Alan
Published: May 2021

In 2019, JUUL Labs began marketing in the European Union ‘new technology’ pods that incorporated a new wick that it claimed provided ‘more satisfaction’. In this study, we compared design and materials of construction, electrical characteristics, liquid composition and nicotine and carbonyl emissions of new technology JUUL pods to their predecessors. Consistent with manufacturer’s claims, we found that the new pods incorporated a different wicking material. However, we also found that the new pod design resulted in 50% greater nicotine emissions per puff than its predecessor, despite exhibiting unchanged liquid composition, device geometry and heating coil resistance. We found that when connected to the new technology pods, the JUUL power unit delivered a more consistent voltage to the heating coil. This behaviour suggests that the new coil-wick system resulted in better surface contact between the liquid and the temperature-regulated heating coil. Total carbonyl emissions did not differ across pod generations. That nicotine yields can be greatly altered with a simple substitution of wick material underscores the fragility of regulatory approaches that centre on product design rather than product performance specifications.
Mandated restrictions on the use of medically important antibiotics in broiler chicken production in Canada: implications, emerging challenges, and opportunities for bolstering gastrointestinal function and health — a review
Authors: Bean-Hodgins Lisa , Kiarie Elijah G.
Published: May 2021

Chicken Farmers of Canada has been progressively phasing out prophylactic use of antibiotics in broiler chicken production. Consequently, hatcheries, veterinarians, and nutritionists have been mandated to contend with less reliance on the use of preventive antibiotics. A topical concern is the increased risk of proliferation of enteric pathogens leading to poor performance, increased mortality, and compromised welfare. Moreover, the gut harbors several taxa such as Campylobacter and Salmonella capable of causing significant illnesses in humans via contaminated poultry products. This has created an opportunity for research and development of dietary strategies designed to modulate gastrointestinal environment for enhanced performance and food safety. Albeit with inconsistent responses, literature data suggest that dietary strategies such as feed enzymes, probiotics/prebiotics, and phytogenic feed additives can bolster gut health and function in broiler chickens. However, much of the efficacy data were generated at controlled research settings that vary significantly with the complex commercial broiler production operations due to variation in dietary, health, and environmental conditions. This review will summarize implications of mandated restrictions on the preventative use of antibiotics and emerging Canadian broiler production programs to meet processor specifications. Challenges and opportunities for integrating alternative dietary strategies in commercial broiler production settings will be highlighted.
The northern Appalachian terrane wreck model
Authors: Keppie J. Duncan , Keppie D. Fraser , Dostal Jaroslav
Published: May 2021

Ordovician and Siluro-Lower Devonian magmatic rocks in the northern Appalachians south of the Iapetus suture are currently interpreted as distinct belts composed of multiple, small, peri-Gondwanan terranes that amalgamated during the sequential closures of Iapetus (latest Ordovician), the Tetagouche backarc basin (early Silurian), the Acadian seaway (Siluro-Devonian), and the Rheic Ocean (Devono-Carbonferous) (multiple terrane model). Here, the Siluro-Lower Devonian magmatic belts are shown to have slab failure affinities and together with the Ordovician arcs form paired belts parallel to the Iapetus suture, which suggests that they were emplaced along the common, peri-Avalonian margin during pre- and post-collisional processes. The Iapetan suture and the paired belts are inferred to repeat in Atlantic Canada due to dextral, strike-slip processes of mid-Late Devonian or younger age (terrane wreck model). In Newfoundland, the repetition is inferred to be the result of oblique, dextral offset of ca. 250 km. In the Quebec Embayment, the Iapetan paired magmatic belts are repeated twice in the limbs of a Z-shaped orocline related to oblique, dextral offsets of ca. 1200 km of the southern limb. Limited Siluro-Devonian paleomagnetic data indicate no paleolatitudinal differences across the Iapetus suture, however ca. 100° post-mid Silurian clockwise rotation is indicated for the middle fold limb; these data favour the terrane wreck model. The terrane wreck model results in a simple tectonic scenario of southerly subduction of Iapetus beneath a single ribbon continent (Avalonia sensu lato) that was subsequently deformed.
Lower Cambrian (Series 2) small shelly fossils from along Nares Strait (Nunavut and Greenland; Laurentia)
Authors: Peel John S. , Skovsted Christian B.
Published: May 2021

Three small assemblages of lower Cambrian (Cambrian Series 2, Stage 4) small shelly fossils are described from Laurentian strata astride Nares Strait. The fauna from the Humboldt Formation of Daugaard-Jensen Land, North Greenland, is derived from inner shelf sediments deposited on the stable craton of the Inglefield Land High. Fossils from Judge Daly Promontory, eastern Ellesmere Island, Nunavut, occur in strata of the Cambrian Ellesmere Group (Kane Basin Formation) that have been structurally juxtaposed against older strata; they were originally assigned to the Kennedy Channel Formation, which is now considered to be of Neoproterozoic age. A similar fauna from offshore environments of the Aftenstjernesø Formation in northern Nyeboe Land, North Greenland, reflects the regional structural and sedimentological continuity with the Canadian Cambrian succession. Pojetaia robsonae sp. nov. is described from Judge Daly Promontory.
Kauffman bracket skein module of the connected sum of handlebodies and non-injectivity
Authors: Karuo Hiroaki
Published: May 2021

For the handlebody [Formula: see text] of genus [Formula: see text], Przytycki studied the (Kauffman bracket) skein module [Formula: see text] of the connected sum [Formula: see text] at [Formula: see text]. One of his results is that, in the case when [Formula: see text] is invertible for any [Formula: see text], a homomorphism [Formula: see text] is an isomorphism, which is induced by a natural way. In this paper, in the case when [Formula: see text], the ground ring is [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text] is a [Formula: see text]-th root of unity ([Formula: see text]), we show that [Formula: see text] is not injective.
Sol–gel deposited xerogel, aerogel and porogen based porous low-k thin films: A comparative investigation
Authors: Gupta Swati , Gaikwad Anil , Mahajan Ashok , Lin Hongxiao , He Zhewei
Published: May 2021

Low dielectric constant (Low-[Formula: see text]) films are used as inter layer dielectric (ILD) in nanoelectronic devices to reduce interconnect delay, crosstalk noise and power consumption. Tailoring capability of porous low-[Formula: see text] films attracted more attention. Present work investigates comparative study of xerogel, aerogel and porogen based porous low-[Formula: see text] films. Deposition of SiO2 and incorporation of less polar bonds in film matrix is confirmed using Fourier Transform Infra-Red Spectroscopy (FTIR). Refractive indices (RI) of xerogel, aerogel and porogen based low-[Formula: see text] films observed to be as low as 1.25, 1.19 and 1.14, respectively. Higher porosity percentage of 69.46% is observed for porogen-based films while for shrinked xerogel films, it is lowered to 45.47%. Porous structure of low-[Formula: see text] films has been validated by using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM). The pore diameters of porogen based annealed samples were in the range of 3.53–25.50 nm. The dielectric constant ([Formula: see text]) obtained from RI for xerogel, aerogel and porogen based films are 2.58, 2.20 and 1.88, respectively.
Structural-phase transition in (Cu2Te)2−x(ZnTe)x at high temperature
Authors: Gasimov H. B. , Rzayev R. M.
Published: May 2021

Cu2Te single crystal was grown by the Bridgman method. X-ray diffraction (XRD) study of Cu2Te single crystals in the temperature range of 293–893 K was performed and possible phase transitions in the mentioned range of temperature have been investigated. (Cu2Te)[Formula: see text](ZnTe)[Formula: see text] single crystals also were grown with [Formula: see text], 0.05, 0.10 concentrations and structural properties of the obtained single crystals were investigated by the XRD method in the temperature range 293–893 K. Lattice parameters and possible phase transitions in the mention temperature range were determined for (Cu2Te)[Formula: see text](ZnTe)[Formula: see text] single crystals for [Formula: see text], 0.05, 0.10 concentrations.
Histopathology Findings of the Lunate in Stage III Kienböck’s Disease
Authors: Xiong Ge , Liu Baoyue , Ding Yi
Published: May 2021

Background: The etiology and natural history of Kienböck’s disease remain unclear. Traditionally it has been defined as avascular necrosis of the lunate. The authors tried to demonstrate different tissue distribution, the area ratio of necrotic tissue and vessel counts inside the whole Kienböck lunate to reveal a dynamic process of the lunate collapse.

Methods: Five lunates from patients with stage III Kienböck’s disease and one cadaveric lunate not involved by Kienböck’s disease were sampled. They were sectioned, H&E stained, and evaluated. The thickness of trabecular bone and the area of necrotic tissue were measured with Image-Pro Plus. The number of vessels was counted manually.

Results: In the normal lunate, the bone trabeculae showed a uniform distribution with fatty marrow filled the interspace between the trabeculae. In the lunates with Kienböck disease, the trabeculae fracture and necrosis located in the central part with massive fibrous granular tissue proliferation. There were also some chondroid metaplasia at the palmar and dorsal ends. The trabeculae of the lunates of the Kienböck’s disease [0.188 mm (0.153 mm, 0.236 mm)] was significantly thicker than the normal lunates [0.146 mm (0.124 mm, 0.164 mm)]. The necrosis was localized around the fracture sites instead of the whole lunate. The mean necrosis area only accounts for 16.3% ± 8.9% of the whole section. Such kind of focal necrosis is quite similar to those around the traumatic fracture ends of other bones. Even in stage III Kienböck lunates, the vessels are quite abundant (221 ± 42 in one sagittal section), while the vessels inside the normal lunate were 352 ± 28.

Conclusions: There is neither massive nor obvious generalized avascular bone necrosis in our histopathology observations. The focal necrosis and vessel damage were more likely associated with the broken trabeculae inside the lunate. Based on our histopathology observations, we suggested that the progressive process of Kienböck’s disease could be described as lunate nonunion advanced collapse instead of avascular necrosis.
Which Fracture Types Are Associated with Widening of the Scapholunate Distance? A CT-Scan Study of Acute Intraarticular Distal Radius Fractures
Authors: Cromheecke Michiel , Vergison Laurence , Benis Szabolcs , Vermue Hannes , Vanhove Wim , Hollevoet Nadine
Published: May 2021

Background: Scapholunate injuries in distal radius fractures may frequently be overlooked. The aims of this study were to measure the scapholunate distance in intraarticular distal radius fractures and to find out which fracture types were associated with an increased scapholunate width.

Methods: Measurements of the scapholunate distance were performed on computed tomography scans of 143 intraarticular distal radius fractures in 140 patients. The fractures were classified according to the AO classification. The morphology of AO type B fractures was further analysed according to the Bain classification.

Results: In 43 AO type B fractures mean scapholunate distance measured 2.1 mm and in 100 type C fractures 1.6 mm. The difference between partial and complete intraarticular fractures was significant. A trend towards a greater scapholunate distance was found in AO type B1 and radial styloid oblique fractures.

Conclusions: In this study, partial intraarticular distal radius fractures, especially with a sagittal split, had a greater scapholunate distance and may be at risk for ligamentous injury.
Salt extrusion kinematics: insights from existing data, morphology and InSAR modelling of the active emergent Anguru diapir in the Zagros fold and thrust belt, Iran
Authors: Ghassemi Mohammad R. , Roustaei Mahasa
Published: May 2021

Emergent salt diapirs are highly mobile geological objects, the kinematics of which pose essential pure and applied problems for geologists and engineers. Movement and deformation of buried salt after its ejection onto the surface is a multivariable process that is susceptible to plenty of intrinsic and ambient factors. As a result, existing data acquisition approaches give extremely variable movement rates for subaerial salt extrusions. The Anguru diapir in the Zagros fold and thrust belt (ZFTB) is a typical emergent intra-anticlinal salt plug that demonstrates very recent activity, and hence was selected to be studied for quantifying salt kinematics under relatively well-defined physical conditions. We used interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) time-series data to evaluate surface displacement over the salt dome by constructing 236 interferograms derived from 47 Envisat ASAR (time span: 2003–10) and 12 ALOS PALSAR (time span: 2006–10) images, which, combined with other lines of evidence, suggest a very recent extrusion history. The maximum line of sight (LOS) displacement rates of the diapir surface are −2.6 and  +  1.4 cm a
−1
. Modelling of the Anguru salt plug surface suggests a bilobed pattern of LOS movements that allows interpretation of the interferometric patterns observed over active upwelling (doming) or downwarping structures.

Supplementary material:
Time series maps of the ALOS 565 ascending track and Envisat 435 descending track interferogramsare available at
https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.5413388
The naming of the Permian System
Authors: Benton Michael J. , Sennikov Andrey G.
Published: May 2021

The naming of the Permian by Roderick Murchison in 1841 is well known. This is partly because he ‘completed’ the stratigraphic column at the system level, but also because of the exotic aspects of his extended fieldwork in remote parts of Russia and his reputed character. Here, we explore several debated and controversial aspects of this act, benefiting from access to documents and reports from Russian sources. Murchison or Sedgwick could have provided a name for the unnamed lower New Red Sandstone in 1835 based on British successions or those in Germany, so perhaps the imperial aim of naming time from British geology was not the urgent task some have assumed. Murchison has been painted as arrogant and imperialistic, which was doubtless true, but at the time many saw him as a great leader, even an attractive individual. Others suggest he succeeded because he stood on the shoulders of local geologists; however, his abilities of brilliant and rapid geological synthesis are undoubted. Two unexpected consequences of his work are that this arch-conservative is revered in Russia as a hero of geological endeavours and, for all his bombast, his ‘Permian’ was not widely accepted until 100 years after its naming.

Supplementary material:
Original text and English-language translations of five of the key papers (Murchison 1841d; Helmersen 1872; Shafranovsky 1964; Chuvashov 2010; Malakhova 2012) are available at:
https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.5412079
Calcification prevalence in different vascular zones and its association with demographics, risk factors, and morphometry
Authors: Jadidi Majid , Poulson William , Aylward Paul , MacTaggart Jason , Sanderfer Christian , Marmie Blake , Pipinos Margarita , Kamenskiy Alexey
Published: May 2021

We investigated the prevalence of vascular calcification in different zones of the aorta and pelvic arteries using computerized tomography angiography reconstructions and have applied machine learning to determine how calcification is affected by demographics, risk factors, and morphometry. The presented data can help identify patients at higher risk of developing vascular calcification that may lead to cardiovascular events.
Coronary microvascular adaptations distal to epicardial artery stenosis
Authors: Merkus Daphne , Muller-Delp Judy , Heaps Cristine L.
Published: May 2021

Until recently, epicardial coronary stenosis has been considered the primary outcome of coronary heart disease, and clinical interventions have been dedicated primarily to the identification and removal of flow-limiting stenoses. However, a growing body of literature indicates that both epicardial stenosis and microvascular dysfunction contribute to damaging myocardial ischemia. In this review, we discuss the coexistence of macro- and microvascular disease, and how the structure and function of the distal microcirculation is impacted by the hemodynamic consequences of an epicardial, flow-limiting stenosis. Mechanisms of endothelial dysfunction as well as alterations of smooth muscle function in the coronary microcirculation distal to stenosis are discussed. Risk factors including diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and aging exacerbate microvascular dysfunction in the myocardium distal to a stenosis, and our current understanding of the role of these factors in limiting collateralization and angiogenesis of the ischemic myocardium is presented. Importantly, exercise training has been shown to promote collateral growth and improve microvascular function distal to stenosis; thus, the current literature reporting the mechanisms that underlie the beneficial effects of exercise training in the microcirculation distal to epicardial stenosis is reviewed. We also discuss recent studies of therapeutic interventions designed to improve microvascular function and stimulate angiogenesis in clinically relevant animal models of epicardial stenosis and microvascular disease. Finally, microvascular adaptation to removal of epicardial stenosis is considered.
Distributed Network Image Processing System and Transmission Control Algorithm
Authors: Zaiyi Pu , Kun Yang , Chaobin Wang
Published: May 2021

With the increasing use of Internet technologies, image data is spreading more and more on the Internet. Whether it is a social network or a search engine, a large amount of image data is generated. By studying the distributed network image processing system and transmission control algorithm, this paper proposes a more accurate gradient calculation method based on the SIFT algorithm. It is concluded that the performance of the proposed algorithm is slightly better than that of the original algorithm, so the system is implemented. On the basis of reducing the performance of the original algorithm, the dimension of the image features is effectively reduced. By comparing the influence of the image retrieval system in the single-machine environment and the distributed environment on the image feature extraction rate, it is proved that the system uses five distributed nodes to construct the image transmission system that achieves the best results in terms of machine cost and system performance. The random Gaussian orthogonal matrix is analyzed with good stability and performance. The OMP algorithm has good convergence and reconstruction performance. The MH-BCS-SPL reconstruction algorithm works best, and the PSNR decreases very smoothly in the process of increasing the packet loss rate from 0.1 to 0.6. The experimental results show that different orthogonal bases behave differently under different images. Overall, the BCS-SPL series algorithm has greatly improved the reconstruction effect compared with the traditional OMP algorithm.
A New 4D Piecewise Linear Multiscroll Chaotic System with Multistability and Its FPGA‐Based Implementation
Authors: Wang Faqiang , Cao Hongbo , Zhai Dingding
Published: May 2021

Due to the complex behavior of a multiscroll chaotic system, it is a good candidate for the secure communications. In this paper, by adding an additional variable to the modified Lorenz‐type system, a new chaotic system that includes only linear and piecewise items but can generate 4n + 4 scroll chaotic attractors via choosing the various values of natural number n is proposed. Its dynamics including bifurcation, multistability, and symmetric coexisting attractors, as well as various chaotic and periodic behaviors, are analyzed by means of attraction basin, bifurcation diagram, dynamic map, phase portrait, Lyapunov exponent spectrum, and C0 complexity in detail. The mechanism of the occurrence for generating multiscroll chaotic attractors is presented. Finally, this multiscroll chaotic system is implemented by using the Altera Cyclone IV EP4CE10F17C8 FPGA. It is found that this FPGA‐based design has an advantage of requiring less resources for 0% of the embedded multipliers and 0% of the PLLs of this FPGA are occupied.
Techniques for Detection of Clinical Used Heparins
Authors: Li Binjie , Zhao Huimin , Yu Mingjia
Published: May 2021

Heparins and sulfated polysaccharides have been recognized as effective clinical anticoagulants for several decades. Heparins exhibit heterogeneity depending on the sources. Meanwhile, the adverse effect in the clinical uses and the adulteration of oversulfated chondroitin sulfate (OSCS) in heparins develop additional attention to analyze the purity of heparins. This review starts with the description of the classification, anticoagulant mechanism, clinical application of heparins and focuses on the existing methods of heparin analysis and detection including traditional detection methods, as well as new methods using fluorescence or gold nanomaterials as probes. The in-depth understanding of these techniques for the analysis of heparins will lay a foundation for the further development of novel methods for the detection of heparins.
Existence, Uniqueness, and Exponential Stability of Uncertain Delayed Neural Networks with Inertial Term: Nonreduced Order Case
Authors: Iswarya M. , Raja R. , Zhu Q. , Niezabitowski M. , Alzabut J. , Maharajan C.
Published: May 2021

In this work, we mainly focus on uncertain delayed neural network system with inertial term. Here, the existence, uniqueness, and exponential stability of inertial neural networks are derived without shifting the second order differential system into first order through substituting variables. Initially, we construct a proper Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional to investigate the stability of novel uncertain delayed inertial neural networks, which is different from the classical Lyapunov functional approach. By utilizing the Kirchhoff’s matrix tree theorem, Cauchy–Schwartz inequality, homeomorphism theorem, and some inequality techniques, the necessary and sufficient conditions are derived for the designed framework. Subsequently, to exhibit the strength of this outcome, we framed a quantitative example.
Study on the Vibration Mitigation Characteristic of Dual Clearance Squeeze Film Damper
Authors: Feng Zhaojun , Luo Guihuo , Yang Hai , Deng Wangqun , Chen Wei , Zheng Nan , Liao Xuemin , Chen Lijia
Published: May 2021

In this paper, a novel model of dual clearance squeeze film damper (DCSFD) was constructed considering convection effect and the vibration mitigation characteristic of DCSFD was researched. The DCSFD film force linearity rFSFD was proposed. The response characteristics of rigid rotor containing DCSFD were studied based on the DCSFD model. A response experiment of the DCSFD was arranged, and the model was verified. A good consistence was achieved between the simulation and experiment. The experiment and simulation result manifests that the unbalance response of DCSFD was smaller than that of SFD at every excitation frequency. The DCSFD could inhibit the nonlinear vibration such as the bistability and bifurcation due to big mass eccentricity, and nonlinear film force for the DCSFD film force linearity was bigger than that for SFD. The thickness ratio of inner and outer film, pressure loss coefficient, and inner film thickness were the important parameters that have great influence on DCSFD vibration mitigation characteristic.