bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variable selection in Gamma regression model using binary gray Wolf optimization algorithm
Authors: Al-Thanoon Niam Abdulmunim , Qasim Omar Saber , Algamal Zakariya Yahya
Published: August 2020

In the real life applications, large amounts of variables have been accumulated quickly. Selection of variables is a very useful tool for improving the prediction accuracy by identifying the most relative variables that related to the study. Gamma regression model is one of the most models that applied in several science fields. Gray Wolf optimization algorithm (GWO) is one of the proposed nature-inspired algorithms that can efficiently be employed for variable selection. In this paper, chaotic GWO is proposed to perform variable selection for gamma regression model. The simulation studies and a real data application are used to evaluate the performance of our proposed procedure in terms of prediction accuracy and variable selection criteria. The obtained results demonstrated the efficiency of our proposed methods comparing with other popular methods.
Rayleigh-Rayleigh Distribution: Properties and Applications
Authors: Al-Noor N H , Assi N K
Published: August 2020

In this paper, a new compound distribution named Rayleigh-Rayleigh (Ra-Ra) is presented. Several structural statistical properties of new distribution containing explicit expressions for the r-th moments, characteristic function, quantile function, order statistics, Shannon and relative entropies, besides stress strength reliability were considered and studied. The unknown parameters of Ra-Ra distribution have been estimated under the maximum likelihood estimation method. Moreover, the Ra-Ra distribution is applied upon a simulation study and real data set in order to evaluate its utility and flexibility.
Multicomponent stress-strength system reliability estimation for generalized exponential-poison distribution
Authors: Mezaal A R , Mansour A I , Karm N S
Published: August 2020

This study deals with (s -out of- k) Multicomponent Stress (Y) and Strength (X) System Reliability Estimation. Both stress and strength assumed to have Generalized Exponential-Poisson Distribution with common and known scale parameters (θ and λ). The aim here is to estimate the unknown shape parameters (α and β) for X and Y respectively using two methods of estimation ML and Bayes analysis by one prior with five loss functions. Then estimate Reliability using the same methods and compared the results by Mean square error criteria from simulation study to find the best performance of the estimators. the results show that the best estimator for R(s,k) is Bayes estimator under Quadratic loss function using Gamma prior function, followed by GD, GW, GP, MLE and GS estimators, respectively.
The Split Anti Fuzzy Domination in Anti Fuzzy Graphs
Authors: Yousif H J , Omran A A
Published: August 2020

We will discuss the concept of a split anti-fuzzy dominating set (SAFD) in anti fuzzy graph (GAF) and investigate the relationship of γSAF
(GAF)(split anti fuzzy domination number) with other known parameters of anti-fuzzy graph. Some bounds and interesting results for this parameter are obtained. The split anti-fuzzy domination on some standard anti-fuzzy graph has been discussed with some suitable graphs.
The Reverse construction of complete (k, n)- arcs in three-dimensional projective space PG(3,4)
Authors: Mustafa Sulaimaan Aidan Essa , Kasm Yahya Nada Yassen
Published: August 2020

In this work, the complete (k, n) arcs in PG(3,4) over Galois field GF(4) can be created by removing some points from the complete arcs of degree m, where m = n + 1, 3 n q2 + q is used. In addition, where k ≤ 85, we geometrically prove that the minimum complete (k, n)–arc in PG(3,4) is (5,3)-arc. A(k, n)–arcs is a set of k points no n+1 of which collinear. A(k, n)–arcs is complete unless it is embedded in an arc (k+l,n).
Chaos in Beddington–DeAngelis food chain model with fear
Authors: Ibrahim Hiba Abdullah , Naji Raid Kamel
Published: August 2020

In the current paper, the effect of fear in three species Beddington–DeAngelis food chain model is investigated. A three species food chain model incorporating Beddington-DeAngelis functional response is proposed, where the growth rate in the first and second level decreases due to existence of predator in the upper level. The existence, uniqueness and boundedness of the solution of the model are studied. All the possible equilibrium points are determined. The local as well as global stability of the system are investigated. The persistence conditions of the system are established. The local bifurcation analysis of the system is carried out. Finally, numerical simulations are used to investigate the existence of chaos and understand the effect of varying the system parameters. It is observed that the existence of fear up to a critical value has a stabilizing effect on the system; otherwise it works as an extinction factor in the system.
A New Iterative Methods For a Family of Asymptotically Severe Mappings
Authors: Maibed Z H
Published: August 2020

The aim of this paper is to introduce the concepts of asymptotically p-contractive and asymptotically severe accretive mappings. Also, we give an iterative methods (two step-three step) for finite family of asymptotically p-contractive and asymptotically severe accretive mappings to solve types of equations.
A Study of Equicontinuous Maps On Uniform Spaces G–Spaces By
Authors: Ansam A A , Ihsan J K
Published: August 2020

In this paper we shall study some new properties of equicontinuous maps on uniform G–Spaces. Here the phase space consider as a uniform space. Also we show the relationship among the equicontinuous maps with the distal dynamical system and expansive dynamical system.
Quality testing algorithms reduce overall completion time and overall delay in machine scheduling
Authors: Cheachan Fathalh A.
Published: August 2020

In this paper we shed light on the issue of scheduling a single machine for foggy delay time and foggy work time. For the purpose of reducing the value of maximizing blur-delay function. A comparison was made and tested between several local methods ((TA), (TS), (GA), (ACO) and (MA)). The results of the selection reached 1500 works. Through the results, it was found that ACO gives the best approximate solutions.
An Additional Properties of the Graded Prime Spectrum of (R, G)
Authors: AL-Juburie Abdulsatar Jmah
Published: August 2020

Let G be a group and R be a G −graded commutative ring, i.e.,

R

=

g
∈
G

⊕

𝑅𝑔 and 𝑅𝑔𝑅ℎ ⊆ 𝑅𝑔ℎ for all 𝑔, ℎ ∈ 𝐺. For 𝐿 ⊆ 𝑅, let 𝑉(𝐿) denote the set of all 𝐺-prime ideals of (𝑅, 𝐺) containing 𝐿. Also, let 𝐺𝑋 denote the set of all graded prime ideals of (𝑅, 𝐺) and 𝐺ℳ denote the set of all graded maximal ideals of (𝑅, 𝐺). Then Ƒ {𝐺𝑋 − 𝑉(𝐿): 𝐿 ⊆ 𝑅} is a topological space G − spec(R) on 𝐺𝑋. In this paper, we give an additional topological properties of G − spec(R).
Forest regeneration on European sheep pasture is an economically viable climate change mitigation strategy
Authors: O’Neill Connie , Lim Felix K S , Edwards David P , Osborne Colin P
Published: August 2020

Livestock production uses 37% of land globally and is responsible for 15% of anthropogenic greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Yet livestock farmers across Europe receive billions of dollars in annual subsidies to support their livelihoods. This study evaluates whether diverting European subsidies into the restoration of trees on abandoned farmland represents a cost-effective negative-emissions strategy for mitigating climate change. Focusing on sheep farming in the United Kingdom, and on natural regeneration and planted native forests, we show that, without subsidies, sheep farming is not profitable when farmers are paid for their labour. Despite the much lower productivity of upland farms, upland and lowland farms are financially comparable per hectare. Conversion to ‘carbon forests’ is possible via natural regeneration when close to existing trees, which are seed sources. This strategy is financially viable without subsidies, meeting the net present value of poorly performing sheep farming at a competitive $4/tCO2eq. If tree planting is required to establish forests, then ∼$55/tCO2eq is needed to break-even, making it uneconomical under current carbon market prices without financial aid to cover establishment costs. However, this break-even price is lower than the theoretical social value of carbon ($68/tCO2eq), which represents the economic cost of CO2 emissions to society. The viability of land-use conversion without subsidies therefore depends on low farm performance, strong likelihood of natural regeneration, and high carbon-market price, plus overcoming potential trade-offs between the cultural and social values placed on pastoral livestock systems and climate change mitigation. The morality of subsidising farming practices that cause high GHG emissions in Europe, whilst spending billions annually on protecting forest carbon in less developed nations to slow climate change is questionable.
Radiation profiles from the surface up to the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere over the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Zhang Jinqiang , Shi Hongrong , Chen Qixiang , Zong Xuemei , Li Jun , Han Xinlei , Bi Yongheng , Xia Xiangao
Published: August 2020

Variations in solar shortwave and thermal longwave radiation over the Tibetan Plateau (TP) are crucial for global climate and regional ecological environment. Previous radiation studies over the TP were widely based on ground and satellite measurements of the radiation budget at the surface and at the top of the atmosphere. A stratospheric balloon-based radiation measurement system was employed in a 2019 field campaign to study how and why radiation profiles vary over the TP during the Asian summer monsoon (ASM) period. We originally provide in situ measurements of multiwavelength radiation profiles from the surface up to the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere (UTLS) over the TP. These valuable observations, combined with simultaneous operational radiosondes, ground measurements, satellite retrievals and radiative transfer model simulations, are used to study radiation variations and the radiative forcings of clouds and aerosols over the TP during the ASM period. Cloud occurrences beneath the balloon flight altitude induce more balloon-borne shortwave upward radiation and ultraviolet upward radiation but less longwave upward radiation relative to clear sky counterparts. The radiative transfer model simulations capture the variations in balloon shortwave downward radiation (SDR) profiles well. Cloud radiative forcings at the UTLS and surface vary greatly with varying cloud cover. The diurnal evolution of the SDR discrepancy between the balloon altitudes and surface and the aerosol radiative forcing at the bottom of the atmosphere are also discussed during the balloon flight periods. The results of this study are expected to improve our understanding of radiation properties in the UTLS and help us better comprehend the thermal conditions associated with clouds and aerosols over the TP during the ASM.
Evaluation of the acidic strengths on electronic ground and excited states of proton transfer dye using Excitation-Emission fluorescence matrix (EEM) and Multivariate Curve Resolution with Alternating Least Squares (MCR-ALS)
Authors: Cordeiro Dantas Willian Francisco , Duarte Luís Gustavo Teixeira Alves , Rodembusch Fabiano Severo , Poppi Ronei Jesus , Zambon Atvars Teresa Dib
Published: August 2020

Multivariate Curve Resolution with Alternating Least Squares (MCR-ALS) was for the first time successfully used to evaluate an intricate photophysical behavior, where deprotonation on the electronic ground state (S0), intra and intermolecular proton transfer processes (ESPT and ESIPT) on the electronic excited state (S1) can simultaneously be presented. In this sense, the organic dye 2-(2′-hydroxyphenyl)benzothiazole (HBT) was used as a proof-of-concept model, where MCR-ALS showed to be a powerful tool for discriminate chemical reactions that occur concomitantly on different potential energy surfaces, which include photochemical reactions. As a result, the chemometric method showed to be a straightforward approach for the determination of the acidic strengths of those equilibria were estimated as 8.61 and 1.11 to hydroxyl deprotonation on electronic ground and excited states, respectively.
Modeling and analysis of developed Thermal additive Centrifugal Abrasive Flow Machining process
Authors: Ali Parvesh , Walia R S , Murtaza Qasim , S Ranganath M
Published: August 2020

In the present scenario due to manufacturing revolution there is a huge demand of mechanical components having high surface finish and a long life cycle. Demand of high surface finish, leads to development of new techniques for nano finishing of intricate shapes, such as Abrasive flow machining (AFM) and hybrid forms of it. During the abrasive flow finishing process, abrasive particles impart a huge impact force on the work piece surface to increase surface finish. This research paper discuss about a newly developed thermal additive centrifugal abrasive flow machining process (TACAFM) and also develops a mathematical model for the material removal of developed process at a given thermal energy pulse. Novelty of TACAFM process reduced the force applied by the abrasive particles and also decreased the loss of energy. In this hybrid process abrasive particles can easily remove the molten/ semi molten material from the work surface under thermal spark mechanism. The experimental results showed material removal in case of TACAFM process is almost double in comparison of conventional AFM process. The oxide layers and molten material on work surface was also observed from SEM images, which clearly indicated the domination of thermal effect over AFM. Also the parameters were optimized for the residual stress in case of TACAFM process and optimum residual stress was found as −152.21 MPa, which shows compressive stress developed on the surface due to the thermal effect. The experimental result showed current is the most significant parameter in TACAFM process and its contribution was found as 91.8%.
Controllable synthesis of Si-DD3R molecular sieves nanocrystalline by microwave assisting dry-gel conversion method
Authors: Han Runlin , Zhou Liang , Luo Yiwei
Published: August 2020

All-silica Deca-Dodecasil 3 Rhombohedral (Si-DD3R) type zeolite with a two-dimensional pore system is a very attractive size selective adsorbent which enables only small molecules to adsorb. It is a great potential candidate in the fields of separation and catalysis. In this work, nanocrystalline Si-DD3R molecular sieves with the particle size of about 30 nm were synthesized by microwave assisting dry-gel conversion (MADGC) method. The advantages of microwave radiation, HF and dry-gel conversion (DGC) were well combined and effectively decrease the size and in situ synthesis time. At 433 K, highly uniform nancrystalline Si-DD3R was obtained in 7 h without seeding. When the partial pressure was 1.0 bar, the CO2 adsorbed amount reached about 0.83 mmol g−1. The zeolites are characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM).
Effect of Chromium on electrochemical and mechanical properties of beta-Al2O3 solid electrolyte
Authors: Wu Jun , Shi Jin , Hong Yongfei , Zhu Chengfei
Published: August 2020

In order to improve the performance of the beta-Al2O3 solid electrolyte, the influence of Cr doping during the preparation of Na-beta-Al2O3 by solid state method was studied, the α-Al2O3 and Na2C2O4 was used as raw materials, and Li+ was added to stabilize β″ phase. The results showed that without Cr2O3 doping, the β″ phase content of the electrolyte was 92.28%, and the relative density was 99.07% of the theoretical density. The appropriate amount of Cr element could stabilize the β″ phase and refine the grain, when the doping amount of Cr2O3 was 0.15 wt%, the content of β″ phase could reach 97.93%, the relative density was 99.07%, the ionic conductivity was 0.082 S · cm−1 at 350 °C, and the bending strength was 253 Mpa. In addition, the excessive Cr element tends to gather in the grain boundary, resulting in the melting state and non-uniform size of the grains, and it will also hinder the formation of the β″ phase.
Phase stability and mechanical property of γ′- (Ni1-xCox)3Al1-yCry alloys
Authors: Wang Yushuai , Wu Xiaoxia , Narsu B
Published: August 2020

The phase stability and mechanical property of γ′-(Ni1-xCox)3Al1-yCry phase of Ni-Co based superalloys are studied by the first-principles method. The calculated mixing enthalpies at 0 K indicate that the alloys are thermodynamically unstable against phase separation into Ni3AlCr and Co3AlCr alloys. Additions of 6.25 at % of Cr into (NiCo)3Al alloy can decrease the positive mixing enthalpy by 34%, hence Cr has a significant stabilizing effect on γ′ phase. The configurational entropy can further stabilize the alloy at finite temperature. A strong tetragonal shear softening is observed for (Ni1-xCox)3Al1-yCry alloys with large Co concentration. Cr additions could increase C′ of the alloys, and thus offset the softening effect of Co by a certain extent. The electronic density of states analysis demonstrates that the flexibility of Al p band and synergistic alloying effect are the physics behind the stabilization the γ′ phase of Ni-Co based superalloy by Cr alloying.
The magic bullet as cancer therapeutic—has nanotechnology failed to find its mark?
Authors: Xiong Gordon Minru , Venkatraman Kailash , Venkatraman Subbu
Published: August 2020

Ever since the term ‘Magic Bullet’ was coined by Nobel laureate Paul Ehrlich to denote selective activity of a therapeutic medicine against a particular target tissue or organism, researchers have been attempting to develop the concept, with the major part of the work directed towards cancer targets. In this review, we define four major technologies that embody the Magic Bullet concept, and discuss the status of the therapeutic in each case. The reasons for relative success and failure of the four technologies are assessed based on the clinical outcomes. There have been failures of ancillary concepts (to enable selectivity) such as the enhanced permeation and retention effect, which will be discussed in context. The outlook is hopeful, with the advent of immunotherapies, that the idealized Magic Bullet will see the light of day in the near future.
Children’s History Matters
Authors: Mintz Steven
Published: August 2020

In a complement to the 2020 AHR Roundtable “Chronological Age: A Useful Category of Historical Analysis” (125, no. 2), this AHR Exchange focuses on the history of children and childhood. Sarah Maza presents a critical review essay, highlighting the limiting factors in the expanding field of childhood studies. Children, she observes, produce few sources of their own voices, have limited agency, and as individuals and as a group soon outgrow their subaltern status—they grow up. Robin P. Chapdelaine, Nara Milanich, Steven Mintz, Ishita Pande, and Bengt Sandin—historians representing diverse geographical, theoretical, and methodological perspectives on the history of children and childhood—react to Maza’s observations by bringing up important methodological questions about subjecthood, agency, and modernity. Maza’s rejoinder reflects on these questions and on the possibility of age-based historical agency.
Possible apixaban-induced leukocytoclastic vasculitis
Authors: Daul Brandon , Petersen Greta , Butler Jared
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The development of leukocytoclastic vasculitis (LCV) during apixaban therapy in a female patient being treated for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is reported.

A 74-year-old Caucasian woman weighing 102 kg presented to a walk-in clinic with complaints of mild pain and swelling in her left leg for 2 weeks. She was diagnosed as having left lower-extremity DVT. The direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) apixaban (10 mg twice daily for 7 days, then 5 mg twice daily for 3 months) was prescribed. At 1-week follow-up the patient stated that her DVT symptoms were slowly improving and reported that small areas of red rash had appeared bilaterally on her lower extremities. On day 23 of apixaban therapy, the patient presented to a walk-in clinic with a complaint that the rash had progressively worsened. The rash was diagnosed as LCV by dermatology consult. On day 24 of therapy, apixaban use was discontinued and the patient was initiated on rivaroxaban (20 mg daily) for the remainder of DVT treatment. LCV was found to be progressively improving on day 73, with trace petechiae. Rivaroxaban was used through the end of DVT treatment without further reports of LCV.

Conclusion

A female patient who developed LCV while taking apixaban for treatment of DVT was successfully transitioned to rivaroxaban therapy, leading to resolution of LCV and successful completion of DVT treatment without recurrence of LCV.
Structural basis of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein induced by ACE2
Authors: Meirson Tomer , Bomze David , Markel Gal
Published: August 2020

Motivation

The recent emergence of the novel SARS-coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and its international spread pose a global health emergency. The spike (S) glycoprotein binds ACE2 and promotes SARS-CoV-2 entry into host cells. The trimeric S protein binds the receptor using the receptor-binding domain (RBD) causing conformational changes in S protein that allow priming by host cell proteases. Unraveling the dynamic structural features used by SARS-CoV-2 for entry might provide insights into viral transmission and reveal novel therapeutic targets. Using structures determined by X-ray crystallography and cryo-EM, we performed structural analysis and atomic comparisons of the different conformational states adopted by the SARS-CoV-2-RBD.

Results

Here, we determined the key structural components induced by the receptor and characterized their intramolecular interactions. We show that κ-helix (polyproline-II) is a predominant structure in the binding interface and in facilitating the conversion to the active form of the S protein. We demonstrate a series of conversions between switch-like κ-helix and β-strand, and conformational variations in a set of short α-helices which affect the hinge region. These conformational changes lead to an alternating pattern in conserved disulfide bond configurations positioned at the hinge, indicating a possible disulfide exchange, an important allosteric switch implicated in viral entry of various viruses, including HIV and murine coronavirus. The structural information presented herein enables to inspect and understand the important dynamic features of SARS-CoV-2-RBD and propose a novel potential therapeutic strategy to block viral entry. Overall, this study provides guidance for the design and optimization of structure-based intervention strategies that target SARS-CoV-2.

Availability and implementation

We have implemented the proposed methods in an R package freely available at https://github.com/Grantlab/bio3d.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Lateralized Cerebral Processing of Abstract Linguistic Structure in Clear and Degraded Speech
Authors: Meng Qingqing , Hegner Yiwen Li , Giblin Iain , McMahon Catherine , Johnson Blake W
Published: August 2020

Human cortical activity measured with magnetoencephalography (MEG) has been shown to track the temporal regularity of linguistic information in connected speech. In the current study, we investigate the underlying neural sources of these responses and test the hypothesis that they can be directly modulated by changes in speech intelligibility. MEG responses were measured to natural and spectrally degraded (noise-vocoded) speech in 19 normal hearing participants. Results showed that cortical coherence to “abstract” linguistic units with no accompanying acoustic cues (phrases and sentences) were lateralized to the left hemisphere and changed parametrically with intelligibility of speech. In contrast, responses coherent to words/syllables accompanied by acoustic onsets were bilateral and insensitive to intelligibility changes. This dissociation suggests that cerebral responses to linguistic information are directly affected by intelligibility but also powerfully shaped by physical cues in speech. This explains why previous studies have reported widely inconsistent effects of speech intelligibility on cortical entrainment and, within a single experiment, provided clear support for conclusions about language lateralization derived from a large number of separately conducted neuroimaging studies. Since noise-vocoded speech resembles the signals provided by a cochlear implant device, the current methodology has potential clinical utility for assessment of cochlear implant performance.
Ambrosia Beetle (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) Communities and Frass Production in ʻŌhiʻa (Myrtales: Myrtaceae) Infected With Ceratocystis (Microascales: Ceratocystidaceae) Fungi Responsible for Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death
Authors: Roy Kylle , Jaenecke Kelly A , Peck Robert W
Published: August 2020

Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death (ROD) is a deadly disease that is threatening the native Hawaiian keystone tree species, ʻōhiʻa lehua (Metrosideros polymorpha Gaudich). Ambrosia beetles (Curculionidae: Scolytinae) and their frass are hypothesized to play a major role in the spread of ROD, although their ecological niches and frass production within trees and across the landscape are not well understood. We characterized the beetle communities and associated frass production from bolts (tree stem sections) representative of entire individual ʻōhiʻa trees from multiple locations across Hawaiʻi Island by rearing beetles and testing their frass for viable ROD-causing fungi. Additionally, we estimated frass production for three beetle species by weighing their frass over time. We found that Xyleborinus saxesenii (Ratzburg), Xyleborus affinis Eichhoff, Xyleborus ferrugineus (Fabricius), Xyleborus perforans (Wollaston), and Xyleborus simillimus Perkins were commonly found on ROD-infected ʻōhiʻa and each produced frass containing viable Ceratocystis propagules. The Hawaiʻi Island endemic beetle and the only native ambrosia beetle associated with ʻōhiʻa, X. simillimus, was limited to high elevations and appeared to utilize similar tree heights or niche dimensions as the invasive X. ferrugineus. Viable Ceratocystis propagules expelled in frass were found throughout entire tree bole sections as high as 13 m. Additionally, we found that X. ferrugineus produced over 4× more frass than X. simillimus. Our results indicate the ambrosia beetle community and their frass play an important role in the ROD pathosystem. This information may help with the development and implementation of management strategies to control the spread of the disease.
Poor quality of life in patients with and without frailty: co-prevalence and prognostic implications in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary interventions and cardiac catheterization
Authors: Kanwar Amrit , Roger Veronique L , Lennon Ryan J , Gharacholou S Michael , Singh Mandeep
Published: August 2020

Aims

We hypothesize that poor quality of life (QOL) is highly prevalent in frail older adults and is associated with worse prognosis.

Methods and results

Predismissal standardized tests for frailty and QOL were prospectively administered to patients included in two cohorts. In Cohort 1, 629 patients ≥65 years who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) from 2005 to 2008, frailty (Fried criteria), and QOL [SF-36 and Seattle Angina Questionnaires (SAQ)] were ascertained. Cohort 2 included 921 patients ≥55 years who underwent cardiac catheterization (535 had PCI) from 2014 to 2018 and frailty was determined by Rockwood criteria and QOL by single-item, self-reported health questionnaire. In Cohort 1, 19% were frail and 20% patients in Cohort 2 were frail with a frailty index >0.30. The median SAQ for physical limitation (58.9 vs. 82.2, P < 0.001), physical (29.5 vs. 43.9, P < 0.001), and mental (49.2 vs. 57.4, P < 0.001) component scores of SF-36 in Cohort 1 were lower and self-rating of fair/poor health (56% vs 18%, P < 0.001) in Cohort 2 was significantly higher in frail patients. As compared to patients without frailty, frail patients were five times more likely (59% vs. 11%, P < 0.001) in Cohort 1 and seven times more likely (56% vs. 8%) in Cohort 2 to be classified with poor QOL. Age- and gender-adjusted 3-year all-cause death and death or myocardial infarction (MI) was significantly higher for patients undergoing PCI with frailty; [hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) death, 4.20 (2.63–6.68, P < 0.001) and death or MI hazard ratio (HR) 2.72 (1.91–3.87, P < 0.001)] and with poor QOL [HR death 2.47 (1.59–3.84, P < 0.001)] and death or MI 1.61 (1.16–2.24, P < 0.001). There was no significant interaction between frailty and QOL (P = 0.64) and only modest attenuation was observed when considered together indicating their independent prognostic influence.

Conclusion

In elderly patients undergoing cardiac catheterization or PCI, poor QOL is seen more frequently in frail patients. Both frailty and poor QOL had significant and independent association with long-term survival.
Anomalous left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery: modified extra-anatomic reimplantation
Authors: Albadi Waleed , Kreitmann Bernard , Roubertie François
Published: August 2020

The anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery in the position of a non-facing coronary sinus is extremely rare. The anatomical position of the ectopic ostia will determine which is the appropriate operative approach to create a dual-coronary supply. This report describes a technique of modified extra-anatomical rerouting using autologous pericardium patch and pulmonary artery flap to create a neo-composite coronary trunk passing anterior to the right ventricular outflow tract.
Immigrants’ First Names and Perceived Discrimination: A Contribution to Understanding the Integration Paradox
Authors: Tuppat Julia , Gerhards Jürgen
Published: August 2020

Many studies have shown that better-educated immigrants more frequently report perceived discrimination in the host country than less-educated immigrants. Two different explanations for this discrimination paradox, which is a subcase of the so-called integration paradox, are discussed in the literature. First, with increasing integration, immigrants’ sensitivity to discrimination processes changes. Second, more integrated immigrants are more exposed to discrimination as they have more frequent contact with the majority society, and thus, more actual opportunities for perceived discrimination. We argue that exposure is only effective if immigrants are recognizable as such. Besides other characteristics, first names serve as an indicator of immigrant background. We use respondents’ first name as an exogenous variation in exposure. By analyzing data from the German Socio-Economic Panel (N = 32,043), we show that (i) immigrants with first names considered uncommon in the host country report discrimination disproportionately frequently, (ii) the discrimination paradox is only evident if a name as a marker indicating ethnicity exists, and (iii) there is no such interaction between first name and education, if immigrants are recognizable by phenotypical markers.
Length of Hospital Stay for Hip Fracture and 30-Day Mortality in People With Alzheimer’s Disease: A Cohort Study in Finland
Authors: Lavikainen Piia , Koponen Marjaana , Taipale Heidi , Tanskanen Antti , Tiihonen Jari , Hartikainen Sirpa , Tolppanen Anna-Maija
Published: August 2020

Background

Persons with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are at higher risk of hip fractures (HFs) than general older population and have worse prognosis after HF. Hospital stays after HF have shortened along time. We investigated the association between length of hospital stay after HF and mortality after discharge among persons with AD.

Method

The MEDALZ cohort includes all Finnish community dwellers who received clinically verified AD diagnosis in 2005–2011 (N = 70 718). Patients who experienced first HF after AD diagnosis in 2005‒2015 (n = 6999) were selected. Length of hospital stay for HF was measured as a sum of the consecutive days spent in hospital after HF until discharge. Outcome was defined as death within 30 days after hospital discharge.

Results

Mean of overall length of hospital stay after a HF decreased from 52.6 (SD 62.9) days in 2005 to 19.6 (SD 23.1) days in 2015. Shortest treatment decile (1‒4 days) had the highest risk of death within 30 days after discharge (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 2.76; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.66–4.60) in addition to second (5‒6 days; aHR 2.52; 95% CI 1.50–4.23) and third (7‒10 days; aHR 2.22; 95% CI 1.34–3.69) deciles when compared to the sixth decile of length of stays (21‒26 days).

Conclusions

Among persons with AD, shorter length of hospital stay after HF was associated with an increased risk of death after discharge. After acute HF treatment, inpatient rehabilitation or proper care and services in home need to be organized to older persons with AD.
Optimal processing for seismic noise correlations
Authors: Fichtner Andreas , Bowden Daniel , Ermert Laura
Published: August 2020

A wide spectrum of processing schemes is commonly applied during the calculation of seismic noise correlations. This is intended to suppress large-amplitude transient and monochromatic signals, to accelerate convergence of the correlation process or to modify raw correlations into more plausible approximations of interstation Green’s functions. Many processing schemes, such as one-bit normalization or various other nonlinear normalizations, clearly break the linear physics of seismic wave propagation. This naturally raises the question: To what extent are the resulting noise correlations physically meaningful quantities? In this contribution, we demonstrate that commonly applied processing methods may indeed introduce an unphysical component into noise correlations. This affects not only noise correlation amplitudes but also, to a lesser extent, time-dependent phase information. The profound consequences are that most processed correlations cannot be entirely explained by any combination of Earth structure and noise sources, and that inversion results may thus be polluted. The positive component of our analysis is a new and easily applicable method that allows us to modify any existing processing such that it becomes optimal in the sense of (1) completely avoiding the unphysical component while (2) approximating the result of the original processing as closely as possible. The resulting optimal schemes can be derived purely on the basis of observed noise, without any knowledge of or assumptions on the nature of noise sources. In addition to the theoretical analysis, we present illustrative real-data examples from the Irish National Seismic Network and the Lost Hills array in Central California. We anticipate that optimal processing schemes may be most useful in applications that exploit complete correlation waveforms, amplitudes and weak arrivals, or small (time-dependent) phase shifts.
Tofacitinib in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis: Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire Items in Phase 3 Randomized Controlled Induction Studies
Authors: Dubinsky Marla C , DiBonaventura Marco , Fan Haiyun , Bushmakin Andrew G , Cappelleri Joseph C , Maller Eric , Thorpe Andrew J , Salese Leonardo , Panés Julian
Published: August 2020

Background

Tofacitinib is an oral, small molecule Janus kinase inhibitor for the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC). We examined the effect of tofacitinib induction treatment on Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire (IBDQ) items in adults with moderate to severe UC.

Methods

Data were pooled from the randomized, 8‑week, double-blind, phase 3 OCTAVE Induction 1 and 2 studies. The IBDQ was self-administered by patients at baseline, week 4, and week 8, with higher scores indicating better health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Change from baseline in IBDQ items was analyzed for 10 mg of tofacitinib twice daily (BID) vs placebo using a linear mixed-effects model, with no multiplicity adjustment performed. Effect sizes were calculated. Subgroup analyses by tumor necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi) experience were performed.

Results

Significant improvements (nominal P < 0.05) were observed in all IBDQ items with 10 mg of tofacitinib BID vs placebo at weeks 4 and 8. For the overall population, the largest treatment differences across all items were reported for “bowel movements been loose” at weeks 4 and 8, and “problem with rectal bleeding” at week 8 (mean treatment differences all 1.1; both in bowel symptoms domain). These items also showed the largest effect sizes. Treatment benefits were generally slightly numerically higher in TNFi-experienced vs TNFi-naïve patients.

Conclusions

Tofacitinib induction therapy improved all IBDQ items vs placebo in patients with UC, reflecting improvements in HRQoL, with greatest benefits reported in bowel symptoms domain items (Funded by Pfizer Inc; OCTAVE Induction 1 and OCTAVE Induction 2; ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01465763 and NCT01458951, respectively).
Status of Gene Methylation and Polymorphism in Different Courses of Ulcerative Colitis and Their Comparison with Sporadic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Liu Chen , Yuan Zi-Ying , Yuan Hao , Wu Ke-Xiang , Cao Bin , Ren Ke-Yu , Cui Ming-Juan , Liu Jun-Heng , Chen Hai-Xing , Pang Yao-Wei
Published: August 2020

Background

The objective of this study is to explore the common genetic and epigenetic mechanism of ulcerative colitis (UC) and sporadic colorectal cancer (SCRC) by observing genes methylation level and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of different disease courses in UC and SCRC.

Methods

Two hundred subjects were enrolled, including 40 in the healthy control (HC) group, 50 in the short disease course UC group (SUC), 52 in the long disease course UC group (LUC), and 58 in the SCRC group. Methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction was used to detect the methylation of MINT1 and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) gene. Single nucleotide polymorphisms of interleukin (IL)-23R rs10889677 and IL-1β rs1143627 were detected by Sanger sequencing.

Results

Compared with HCs (32.5%), methylation level of MINT1 was significantly increased in SCRC (67.2%; P = 0.001) and was a risk factor for CRC (odds ratio, [OR] 4.26). The methylation ratios of COX-2 were 95.0%, 58.0%, 23.1%, and 24.1% in HC, SUC, LUC, and SCRC, respectively, which were negatively correlated with the disease course of UC (r = −0.290). Hypermethylation of COX-2 was a protective factor for SUC (OR, 0.11), LUC (OR, 0.02), and SCRC (OR, 0.03; P < 0.05). Compared with HCs, rs10889677 allele A was a risk factor for SUC and LUC, and rs1143627 allele T was a protective factor for SUC and LUC. Genotype TT was a protective factor for SUC.

Conclusion

The hypomethylation of COX-2 gene was a common risk factor and epigenetic modification for UC and SCRC, which might be one of the mechanisms through which UC patients were susceptible to CRC. The hypermethylation of MINT1 was a risk factor for SCRC but not for UC; alleles of IL-23Rrs10889677 and IL-1βrs1143627 were related to UC but not to SCRC.
Serum miRNAs Are Pharmacodynamic Biomarkers Associated With Therapeutic Response in Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Batra Suruchi K , Heier Christopher R , Diaz-Calderon Lina , Tully Christopher B , Fiorillo Alyson A , van den Anker John , Conklin Laurie S
Published: August 2020

Background

We sought to identify microRNAs (miRNAs) associated with response to anti-TNF-α or glucocorticoids in children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) to generate candidate pharmacodynamic and monitoring biomarkers.

Methods

Clinical response was assessed by Pediatric Crohn’s Disease Activity Index and Pediatric Ulcerative Colitis Activity Index. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction via Taqman Low-Density Array cards were used to identify miRNAs in a discovery cohort of responders (n = 11) and nonresponders (n = 8). Seven serum miRNAs associated with clinical response to treatment, along with 4 previously identified (miR-146a, miR-146b, miR-320a, miR-486), were selected for further study. Candidates were assessed in a validation cohort of serum samples from IBD patients pre- and post-treatment and from healthy controls. Expression of miRNA was also analyzed in inflamed mucosal biopsies from IBD patients and non-IBD controls.

Results

Discovery cohort analysis identified 7 miRNAs associated with therapeutic response: 5 that decreased (miR-126, miR-454, miR-26b, miR-26a, let-7c) and 2 that increased (miR-636, miR-193b). In the validation cohort, 7 of 11 candidate miRNAs changed in the same direction with response to anti-TNF-α therapies, glucocorticoids, or both. In mucosal biopsies, 7 out of 11 miRNAs were significantly increased in IBD vs healthy controls.

Conclusions

Five candidate miRNAs associated with clinical response and mucosal inflammation in pediatric IBD patients were identified (miR-126, let-7c, miR-146a, miR-146b, and miR-320a). These miRNAs may be further developed as pharmacodynamic and response monitoring biomarkers for use in clinical care and trials.
Experience using intravenous posaconazole in paediatric and young adult oncology patients
Authors: Lambrix Arathi A , Swanson Hope D , Pauley Jennifer L , Bragg Allison W , Carias Delia C , Bourque Melissa S , Zhou Yinmei , Cheng Cheng , Greene William L , Maron Gabriela
Published: August 2020

Background

Posaconazole exhibits broad-spectrum antifungal activity. An IV formulation became available in 2014. Few studies describing the use of this formulation exist in patients under the age of 18 years. This study describes our experience using IV posaconazole in paediatric and young adult cancer patients.

Methods

This single-centre retrospective chart review evaluated patients who received IV posaconazole and had at least one posaconazole plasma concentration obtained after five or more days with a consistent dosage. Relationships between doses required to achieve a plasma concentration of ≥1 µg/mL and patient age, weight and body surface area (BSA) were evaluated. The clinical record was reviewed to identify descriptions of any adverse events.

Results

Twenty-five patients were analysed, with a median age of 10.5 years (range 1.9–22.9 years; 92% were <18 years). All patients were able to achieve a posaconazole plasma concentration ≥1 µg/mL during their treatment course. The daily mg/kg/day dose required to achieve the target concentration decreased significantly with increasing age of the patient (P = 0.018). Assessment of dosage based on BSA suggested a requirement of 225 mg/m2/day across all age groups <18 years. Adverse events documented in the clinical record were consistent with those described with the oral formulations. No CNS toxicities were observed with use of IV posaconazole.

Conclusions

Concentrations ≥1 µg/mL are achievable and a BSA-based dosing approach may allow a consistent empirical dose for patients <18 years of age. Therapeutic drug monitoring is recommended to ensure patients achieve therapeutic concentrations.
Effect of dietary arginine-to-lysine ratio in lactation on biochemical indices and performance of lactating sows
Authors: Gao Kaiguo , Wen Xiaolu , Guo Chunyan , Wang Li , Ban Wenjie , Yang Xuefen , Wu Zhijun , Jiang Zongyong
Published: August 2020

The present study investigated the effect of optimizing the total dietary arginine (Arg)-to-lysine (Lys) ratios on the metabolism of lactating sows and piglet performance by supplementation with l- Arg during lactation. A total of 200 multiparous sows (three to six parities, Yorkshire × Landrace) were selected and randomly and equally assigned to five groups in lactation, and finally, 36, 34, 35, 36, and 33 dams completed the study in the dietary treatments, respectively, where the diets consisted of five step-up Arg-to-Lys ratios (0.9, 1.0, 1.1, 1.2, and 1.3) by the addition of 0%, 0.10%, 0.20%, 0.30%, and 0.40% Arg. The diets contained 3.37 to 3.38 Mcal of digestible energy/kg energy, 17.73% to 17.75% crude protein, and 0.98% to 1.01% Lys and were fed ad libitum during lactation. The performance of sows and suckling piglets was measured, and plasma and milk samples were collected for analysis. The feed intake of sows as well as litter weight gain during lactation increased linearly (P ≤ 0.05), while maternal backfat and milk composition were not affected (P > 0.05) as the dietary Arg-to-Lys ratios increased. Analyzed plasma biochemical indices, including concentrations of free Arg, Orn, and Glu, and prolactin, insulin, and follicle-stimulating hormone, responded linearly (P ≤ 0.05) to increases in dietary Arg-to-Lys ratios. The dietary Arg-to-Lys ratios of 1.01 and 1.02 were optimal for maternal feed intake and litter weight gain, based on broken-line models. Collectively, the results of this study indicate that increasing total dietary Arg-to-Lys ratios in lactation was beneficial for the performance of lactating sows and suckling piglets, and dietary Arg-to-Lys ratios of 1.01 and 1.02 were optimal, from regression analyses, for the practical feeding of lactating sows.
Current Trends in Management of Marjolin’s Ulcer: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kanth Aditi M , Heiman Adee J , Nair Lakshmi , Giammarino Alexa , Carpenter Courtney , Ricci Joseph A , Patel Ashit
Published: August 2020

Marjolin’s ulcer (MU) is a rare, aggressive entity with frequent delay in diagnosis for a variety of regions. Although well described and classically taught in medical school, aspects of its treatment remain ill-defined and controversial. A systematic review was performed according to PRISMA guidelines to identify studies discussing patients who underwent surgical treatment of MU. A total of 31 papers, reporting on 1016 patients, were included. Burns were the most common etiology of malignant degeneration (68%), followed by trauma. The lower extremity was most affected (51%) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) was found in 94% of cases, with the majority being well differentiated. Basal cell carcinoma and melenoma composed a minority of cases. Melanoma occurred more frequently in previously skin grafted wounds and had a higher rate of metastases than SCC. Most patients did not have associated regional or distant metastases present at diagnosis. Wide local excision (71%) was performed in most cases, unless amputation was indicated for severe disease or bone involvement. Lymphadenectomy and sentinel lymph node biopsy were variably reported, with conflicting evidence on the efficacy. Lymphadenectomy was most commonly indicated for known lymph node involvement. In cases of metastatic disease chemotherapy and radiation were used in conjunction with surgical treatment. Despite numerous articles on this topic, controversy remains in the management of MU. Early diagnosis of suspicious chronic wounds and prompt surgical intervention remains imperative to its treatment.
Elucidating Efficacy of Ingested Positively Charged Zein Nanoparticles Against Noctuidae
Authors: Bonser Colin A R , Chen Xuan , Astete Carlos E , Sabliov Cristina M , Davis Jeffrey A
Published: August 2020

A meridic diet overlay bioassay using empty, positively charged zein nanoparticles ((+)ZNP) was performed on soybean looper (Chrysodeixis includens (Walker)), tobacco budworm (Heliothis virescens (F.)), and velvetbean caterpillar (Anticarsia gemmatalis Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Assessment of effects on mortality and development weights 7 d after ingestion of (+)ZNP were evaluated on larvae of each species. Treatments involved different concentrations, with H. virescens and A. gemmatalis offered 0 and 3,800 ppm (+)ZNP, whereas C. includens colonies were offered 0, 630, 1,260, and 2,520 ppm (+)ZNP. Mortality of A. gemmatalis and C. includens increased after ingestion of the highest (+)ZNP concentrations, while H. virescens neonate mortality was unaffected. Neonate and third-instar weights of A. gemmatalis and C. includens, and neonate H. virescens, decreased with high (+)ZNP concentrations. Following mortality results from A. gemmatalis neonates, a concentration response test was performed using a range of (+)ZNP concentrations. The LC50 for A. gemmatalis was 1,478 ppm. The potential of (+)ZNP as a pest management tactic is discussed.