bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RETRACTED: Evaluation of a six‐dye multiplex composed of 27 markers for forensic analysis and databasing
Authors: Wang Shuangshuang , Song Feng , Xie Mingkun , Zhang Ke , Xie Bowen , Huang Zhanglong , Luo Haibo
Published: July 2020

Background

Short tandem repeat (STR) markers play a significant role in genetic applications and have proved to be effective for the personal identification in forensic medicine. In this study, a six‐dye multiplex composed of 23 autosomal STR loci (TH01, D3S1358, Penta D, D6S1043, D21S11, TPOX, D1S1656, D12S391, Penta E, D10S1248, D22S1045, D19S433, D8S1179, D2S1338, D2S441, D18S51, vWA, FGA, D16S539, CSF1PO, D13S317, D5S818, D7S820), one Y chromosome STR (DYS391), two internal quality control markers (Quality Sensor QS1 and QS2), and Amelogenin was evaluated.

Methods

Evaluation studies, including PCR‐based studies, sensitivity studies, species specificity studies, stability studies, DNA mixture studies, concordance studies, and precision evaluations were performed according to the guidelines of “Validation Guidelines for Forensic DNA Analysis Methods (2016)” by the Scientific Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods (SWGDAM). In addition, the forensic characteristics of 357 unrelated male samples from Han and Hui populations in China were investigated using 27 markers.

Results

Full STR profiles were obtained from different reaction volumes (5 ~ 25 μl), cycle numbers (28 ~ 34 cycles) and annealing temperatures (58 ~ 62°C). All STR profiles were obtained at humic acid concentration of up to 200 ng/μl and hematin concentration of up to 500 μM. No peaks were observed in most common animal samples except two innovative internal PCR controls (Quality Sensor QS1 and QS2). The six‐dye multiplex showed a notably high value for the combined probability of exclusion (CPE), exhibiting values of with 0.99999999977688 in the Han population and 0.999999999583875 in the Hui population. The values of combined probability of discrimination (CPD) were 0.999999999999999999999999999997453 in the Han population and 0. 999999999999999999999999999994398 in the Hui population. In addition, concordance studies showed that there was no difference with the AGCU Express Marker 22 Kit.

Conclusion

The results indicated that the Investigator® 26plex QS Kit is a robust, reliable, and suitable tool for forensic analysis and databasing.
Lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) for treatment of secondary breast lymphedema: A case report and literature review
Authors: Scaglioni Mario F. , Meroni Matteo , Fritsche Elmar
Published: July 2020

Breast lymphedema (BLE) is a rather common complication occurring after surgical breast cancer treatment. Microsurgical lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) is a validated technique for the management of lymphedema in the extremities and it is gaining approval also for the breast one. Here, we report a case of breast lymphedema successfully treated with LVA. A 52 years old woman referred chronic erythema, diffuse swelling and pain after breast surgery, axillary lymphnode dissection and adjuvant radiotherapy. Conservative treatments had been performed for 14 months without improvement of symptoms. The patient was then referred for surgery and multiple LVAs were performed at the right breast. A total of 3 LVAs have been performed, two lymphatic vessels were anastomosed to a single Y‐shaped vein and one additional vessel was linked to another nearby vein of similar caliber. All the LVAs were executed using 12–0 microsutures and their patency was confirmed with intraoperative ICG lymphography. Immediately after this intervention the swelling decreased in size and the erythema disappeared and a sensation of relief was reported by the patient. The postoperative course was uneventful and at the 6 and 12 months follow up no signs and symptoms of recurrence were noted. Therefore, we believe that this case adds another significant evidence of the efficacy of LVA for treatment of secondary BLE refractory to conservative treatment. Moreover, we provide a literature review of previous reports of breast lymphedema treated recurring to this procedure.
Tailored piezoelectric performance of self‐polarized PVDF‐ZnO composites by optimization of aspect ratio of ZnO nanorods
Authors: Pratihar Shewli , Medda Samar Kumar , Sen Shrabanee , Devi P. Sujatha
Published: July 2020

Aspect ratio of filler plays a crucial role to study the electrical properties of polymer based composite system. Here, we investigated the effect of filler aspect ratio on the electrical properties of zinc oxide (ZnO) incorporated poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) matrix. ZnO nanorods having different aspect ratio were synthesized by the hydrothermal technique with varying reaction time 4 to 20 hours at a fixed temperature and PVDF based nanocomposites of the respective ZnO nanorods with different wt% filler loading were fabricated. Interestingly polar‐phase fraction increased with the aspect ratio of ZnO nanorods. The nanocomposites with higher aspect ratio ZnO nanorods showed an increased energy density under same electric field and exhibited maximum open circuit AC output voltage (ie, 20 V) after the application of repeated human finger tapping. This result indicates that high aspect ratio ceramic filler provides an effective approach to enhance the dielectric, ferroelectric, energy storage, and energy harvesting performances of ceramic‐polymer nanocomposites.
Cell‐free DNA screening in twin pregnancies: A more accurate and reliable screening tool
Authors: Chibuk Jason , Rafalko Jill , Boomer Theresa , McCullough Ron , McLennan Graham , Wyatt Philip , Almasri Eyad
Published: July 2020

Objective

Outcome data from cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) screening in twin gestations are limited. This study adds an appreciable number of confirmed outcomes to the literature, and assesses performance of cfDNA screening in twins over a 4.5‐year period at one large clinical laboratory.

Method

Prenatal cytogenetic and SNP microarray results were cross‐referenced with cfDNA results for twin pregnancies, yielding 422 matched cases. Using diagnostic results as truth, performance of cfDNA screening in this population was assessed.

Results

Of the 422 twin pregnancies with both cfDNA and diagnostic results, 3 specimens failed amniocyte analysis, and 48 samples (11.5%) were nonreportable from the initial cfDNA draw. Analysis of the 371 reportable samples demonstrated a collective sensitivity of 98.7% and specificity of 93.2% for trisomies 21/18/13. Positive predictive values (PPVs) in this study population, which is enriched for aneuploidy, were 78.7%, 84.6%, and 66.7% for trisomy 21, 18, and 13, respectively.

Conclusion

CfDNA screening in a cohort of twin pregnancies with matched diagnostic results showed superior performance compared to traditional serum biochemical screening in twins. This study adds to a growing body of evidence suggesting that cfDNA is an accurate and reliable screening tool for the major trisomies in twin pregnancies.
‘Personality in its Natural Habitat’ Revisited: A Pooled, Multi–sample Examination of the Relationships between the Big Five Personality Traits and Daily Behaviour and Language Use
Authors: Tackman Allison M. , Baranski Erica N. , Danvers Alexander F. , Sbarra David A. , Raison Charles L. , Moseley Suzanne A. , Polsinelli Angelina J. , Mehl Matthias R.
Published: July 2020

Past research using the Electronically Activated Recorder (EAR), an observational ambulatory assessment method for the real–world measurement of daily behaviour, has identified several behavioural manifestations of the Big Five domains in a small college sample ( N = 96). With the use of a larger and more diverse sample of pooled data from N = 462 participants from a total of four community samples who wore the EAR from 2 to 6 days, the primary purpose of the present study was to obtain more precise and generalizable effect estimates of the Big Five–behaviour relationships and to re–examine the degree to which these relationships are gender specific. In an extension of the original article, the secondary purpose of the present study was to examine if the Big Five–behaviour relationships differed across two facets of each Big Five domain. Overall, while several of the behavioural manifestations of the Big Five were generally consistent with the trait definitions (replicating some findings from the original article), we found little evidence of gender differences (not replicating a basic finding from the original article). Unique to the present study, the Big Five–behaviour relationships were not always comparable across the two facets of each Big Five domain. © 2020 European Association of Personality Psychology
Impact of Incremental Delays in Appropriate Therapy on the Outcomes of Hospitalized Adult Patients with Gram‐negative Bloodstream Infections: “Every day matters”
Authors: Lodise Thomas P. , Kanakamedala Hemanth , Hsu Wei‐Chun , Cai Bin
Published: July 2020

Background

Serious bloodstream infections (BSIs) are often caused by Gram‐negative (GN) bacteria in hospitalized patients. Treatment of these infections has been further complicated by the continued rise and spread of drug‐resistant pathogens, including carbapenem resistant (CR) strains of Enterobacteriaceae, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Methods

This retrospective cohort analysis used real‐world data from a large United States hospital‐based database to examine the association between key clinical outcomes and different lengths of time to appropriate treatment between October 2010 and September 2015.

Results

Of 40,549 patients with GN‐BSIs who were identified, 1117 (2.8%) had a CR GN‐BSI. Overall, outcomes of hospitalized adult patients with GN‐BSIs incrementally worsened the longer appropriate therapy was delayed. Patients with CR GN‐BSIs had a median infection‐associated length of stay (LOS) of 8, 9, 10, and 13 days, whereas patients with CS GN‐BSIs had a median infection‐associated LOS of 6, 7, 8, and 11 days for patients with days to appropriate therapy of 0, 1–2, 3–4, and ≥ 5 days, respectively. Among patients with CR GN‐BSIs, the percentage of patients discharged home was 38%, 33%, 35%, and 31%, whereas in patients with CS GN‐BSIs, the percentage of patients discharged home was 58%, 53%, 48%, and 43% for patients with days to appropriate therapy of 0, 1–2, 3–4, and ≥ 5 days, respectively.

Conclusion

The findings from this study highlight the clear need to deliver appropriate therapy more expeditiously in patients with CS and CR GN‐BSIs.
Isoform 1 of Fibrinogen Alpha Chain Precursor is a Potential Biomarker for Steroid‐Induced Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head
Authors: Liu Liying , Song Jidong , Li Jun , Huang Na , Yang Juan , Hu Shugang , Ma Rui , Wang Wei
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Early diagnosis is crucial to increase the chances of conservation treatment for patients with steroid‐induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head (SIONFH). This study aimed to identify serum peptides as potential biomarkers to diagnose SIONFH.

Experimental Design

The serum proteome of 32 SIONFH patients and 24 healthy controls are analyzed using magnetic bead‐based weak cation exchange (MB‐WCX) and matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization‐time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF‐MS). Next, candidate biomarkers are identified using liquid chromatography‐electrospray ionization‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐ESI‐MS/MS). Candidate biomarkers are then validated using ELISA and western blotting.

Results

39 peaks are identified and the expression fold changes of seven peaks in the two groups are greater than 1.5. Three peaks (m/z: 1077.84 Da; m/z: 1061.78 Da; m/z: 1099.56 Da) tend to be upregulated, while four peaks (m/z: 3973.92 Da; m/z: 7766.53 Da; m/z: 3957.31 Da; m/z: 4212.02 Da) tend to be down‐regulated in SIONFH patients. The peak for a 1077.84 Da peptide is identified as Isoform 1 of the Fibrinogen alpha chain precursor (FGA). ELISAs and western blot analyses reveal that the expression of FGA is significantly higher in SIONFH patients than healthy controls.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance

FGA is overexpressed in SIONFH patients, and thus, is a novel potential biomarker for SIONFH.
Host preference, acaricides effects and population growth of Polyphagotarsonemus latus (Banks) (Acari: Tarsonemidae) on white and colored cotton cultivars
Authors: de Santana Mauricéa Fidelis , de Oliveira José Vargas , Breda Mariana Oliveira , e Silva Barbosa Douglas Rafael , Filho Alberto Belo Esteves , de Oliveira Cynara Moura
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND

White and colored fiber cotton cultivars have been developed to increase production and opportunities for family farming. The broad mite, Polyphagotarsonemus latus (Banks) is an important pest in cotton crops, nevertheless, different cotton cultivars may influence its host selection and population growth. For P. latus control, acaricides application is commonly performed, although less is known about the sublethal effects of these products. Thus, the host preference and instantaneous rate of increase (ri) of P. latus were evaluated on white and colored cotton cultivars, as well as the lethal and sublethal effects of acaricides through mortality tests and population growth.

RESULTS

In free‐choice tests to evaluate host preference among white and colored cotton cultivars, no preference was observed for P. latus. The instantaneous ri values were positive for all tested cultivars, however, differences were observed between the colored BRS Rubi and the white BRS 201. The population growth of P. latus decreased with increasing concentrations of the acaricides abamectin, spirodiclofen, azadirachtin and spiromesifen. Nevertheless, azadirachtin and spiromesifen presented positive ri values even at the highest lethal concentrations (LC90), while abamectin and spirodiclofen provided negative ri values of P. latus from LC90 and LC70, respectively.

CONCLUSION

No host preference of P. latus was observed among white and colored cotton cultivar. Abamectin and spirodiclofen presented relevant sublethal effects that should be considered for the integrated management of this pest.
Indium Localization‐Induced Red, Green, and Blue Emissions of Semipolar (11‐22) GaN‐Based Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Choi Jun-Ho , Baek Seung-Hye , Kim Hee-Wung , Na Hyunseok , Lee Sung-Nam
Published: July 2020

Red, green, and blue electroluminescence (EL) in semipolar (11‐22) GaN‐based light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) is achieved using SiO2 hexagonal patterns epitaxial lateral overgrowth (HP‐ELO). The size, density, and area of arrowhead‐like surface structure of the semipolar (11‐22) HP‐ELO GaN are significantly affected by increasing the SiO2 hexagonal patterns from 6.0 to 15.0 μm. The full width at half maximum and the blueshift wavelength of EL spectra increases with increasing from 6.0 to 9.0 μm, and then decreases with increasing the hexagonal pattern width to 15.0 μm. These results show a similar tendency to the surface area of arrowhead‐like structure. In addition, micro‐EL images show that indium localization‐induced low energy emission initiates at the front end of arrowhead‐like pattern, and then blueshifted emissions propagate to the side edges as the injection current increases. Therefore, it suggests that HP‐ELO can control the arrowhead‐like surface structure composed of different indium compositions, which can achieve red, green, and blue emissions of a semipolar (11‐22) HP‐ELO GaN‐based LED.
All‐sky microwave humidity sounder assimilation in the Korean Integrated Model forecast system
Authors: Lee Sihye , Song Hyo‐Jong , Chun Hyoung‐Wook , Kwon In‐Hyuk , Kang Jeon‐Ho , Lim Sujeong
Published: July 2020

The Korean Integrated Model (KIM) and hybrid data assimilation system were extended to assimilate all‐sky radiance from microwave satellite sensors. Initially, a radiative transfer model for the TIROS Operational Vertical Sounder (TOVS), called RTTOV‐SCATT (version 11.3), was implemented to assimilate the Microwave Humidity Sounder (MHS) 183 GHz channels over the ocean. Cloud and precipitation parameters are not directly assimilated into our system, but temperature and humidity profiles are improved in the all‐sky assimilation. In the cycled analysis and forecast experiments, an assimilation of the MHS in a cloudy region shows globally substantial benefits: the coverage of the MHS radiance data is increased by 23–28% in the all‐sky assimilation. It is demonstrated that RTTOV‐SCATT well describes the brightness temperature (TB) on selected cloudy pixels over the Tropics and the Southern Hemisphere, with potential for linking the TB innovation to the increment for the hydrometeor variable. As a result, a reduction of 1.11% in the specific humidity root‐mean‐square error occurs in the 6‐hr forecast field as compared to the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF)'s Integrated Forecasting System (IFS) analysis. Even though the all‐sky MHS assimilation's impact on the Northern Hemisphere midlatitudes is not remarkable, it nonetheless produces an improved humidity analysis increment for a heavy rainfall case over East Asia.
SURE estimates for high dimensional classification
Authors: Ji Zhi , Wei Yang , Li Zhouping
Published: July 2020

In the present paper, we consider the high dimensional classification problem, which has become much important in many modern statistical studies and applications. We develop new classifiers based on Fisher's linear classification rule and empirical Bayes. In particular, we propose to employ the Stein's unbiased risk estimate (SURE) to estimate the sparse or non‐sparse mean difference, which could be plugged into the linear classification rules. Using simulation studies under a variety of settings, we demonstrate that our classifiers perform well especially when the features are non‐sparse. We also illustrate the use of the new proposal to classification problems in some real data examples.
Measuring the Relationship between Grayscale and Phase Retardation of LCoS based on Binary Optics
Authors: Yang Shiyi , Yang H. , Qin Lang , Shi Yujian , Li Qing
Published: July 2020

A method for measuring LCoS phase retardation based on binary optics is introduced. Based on the diffraction efficiency formula of the binary grating, the relationship between grayscale and phase retardation is established. The method of designing experimental light path and testing with the aid of diaphragm is proposed, which is simple, intuitive, and insensitive to environmental perturbations. Finally, the feasibility of the method is verified based on the distribution of diffraction light spot. In addition, a method for detecting the specific position of the Gaussian light spot on the LCoS is also proposed, and the effectiveness of it is verified from experimental phenomena to theoretical derivation.
Polarizer Optimized for Chiral VA LCDs with High Optical Performance
Authors: Chen Mei , Song Qi , Chen Xingwu , Tseng Te-Jen , Li Dongze , Chen Lixuan , Zhang Xin , Meng Hong
Published: July 2020

Compared with normal VA mode LCDs, chiral VA mode LCDs composed of large Δnd chiral LC, generally exhibit higher transmittance but narrow viewing angle in black state. In order to improve the black‐state viewing angle of chiral VA LCDs, the relationship between the out‐of‐plane retardation (Rth) of the polarizer and the light leakage in balck state of the chiral VA LCD is systematically investigated. By optimizing the Rth value of the polarizer film, a chiral VA LCD with high transmittance and wide black‐state viewing angle can be obtained.
Excellent Uniformity and Reliability Top‐Gate Self‐Aligned IGZO TFTs with Cu Electrode
Authors: Ma Qian , Zhou Xing-Yu , Hsu Yuan-Jun , Wu Yuan-Chun , Zhang Sheng-Dong
Published: July 2020

A top‐gate self‐aligned oxide amorphous indium‐gallium‐zinc‐oxide (a‐IGZO) thin‐film transistor (TFT) was examind for active matrix organic light‐emitting diode (AMOLED) display. The device exhibited robust device performance, such as excellent threshold voltage uniformity, high mobility, and good gate bias stress stabilities. Furthermore, remarkable short channel characteristics were achieved
Virtual reality gesture recognition based on depth information
Authors: Yu Xiaoyang , Jiang Lin , Wang Lijun
Published: July 2020

With the rapid development of computer technology, the information revolution is constantly affecting and changing our lives. Today’s virtual reality technology is no longer just a virtual model for viewing. Experiencers are more willing to personally interact with the virtual environment in a virtual scene to increase their sense of gaming experience.

Today’s virtual reality interaction methods mainly interact through the handles that come with VR helmets. Previously, some scholars have researched gesture interaction in virtual environments. They use data gloves to obtain information about hand movements. This method makes users have to wear heavy data gloves, which limits the natural movement of their hands. To overcome this shortcoming, the need for low‐cost vision‐based virtual reality gesture interaction is becoming more and more urgent.

Traditional gesture recognition technologies based on artificial modeling include template‐based matching, data‐based gloves, and machine learning. As machine learning gesture classifiers, Hidden Markov Model (HMM) and Support Vector Machine (SVM) [1] have been widely used. However, in the hand motion detection of ordinary cameras, the image is prone to speckles, lighting changes, and other factors, which seriously affects the performance of the classifier, making it difficult to accurately and efficiently detect the first image when the background is complex and the lighting is affected. In recent years, deep learning‐based object detection methods have achieved great breakthroughs [2]. In the past decade, many deep learning‐based dynamic gesture recognition algorithms have been introduced. In the case of changing lighting conditions, in order to improve the classification accuracy of gesture recognition [3]. Therefore, this article chooses a depth camera combined with HTC VIVE device for gesture recognition in virtual reality. First obtain the depth image of the hand through the depth camera, then label the depth image, and then learn through the deep learning network hand movement training [4], preprocess the detected human hand image, and recognize it by hand detection The position of the hand in the image is obtained, and the movement of the hand is recognized as a result of recognition.

The algorithm in this paper uses the advanced deep learning network YOLOv3, and changes the network structure and multi‐scale structure based on the original network. This algorithm is compared with other deep learning algorithms for gesture recognition, and the recognition effect is better than other algorithms in the same category.
Harvesting Microalgae for Food and Energy Products
Authors: Liber Julian A. , Bryson Abigail E. , Bonito Gregory , Du Zhi‐Yan
Published: July 2020

Microalgae are promising biological factories for diverse natural products. Microalgae tout high productivity, and their biomass has value in industrial products ranging from biofuels, feedstocks, food additives, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and as alternatives to synthetic or animal‐derived products. However, harvesting microalgae to extract bioproducts is challenging given their small size and suspension in liquid growth media. In response, technologic developments have relied upon mechanical, chemical, thermal, and biological means to dewater microalgal suspensions and further extract bioproducts. In this review, the effectiveness and considerations were evaluated for the implementation of microalgae harvesting techniques. Nonbiological methods—filtration, chemical, electrical, and magnetic nanoparticle flocculation, centrifugation, hydrothermal liquefaction, and solvent‐based extraction, as well as biological coculture‐based methods are included. Recent advances in coculture algae‐flocculation technologies that involve bacteria and fungi are summarized. These produce a variety of natural bioproducts, which show promise in fuel and food additive applications. Furthermore, this review addresses the developments of genetic tools and resources to optimize the productivity and harvesting of microalgae or to provide new bioproducts via heterologous expression. Finally, a glimpse of future biotechnologies that will converge to produce, harvest, and process microalgae using sustainable and cost‐effective methods is offered.
On the behavior in time of solutions to motion of Non-Newtonian fluids
Authors: Moscariello Gioconda , Porzio Maria Michaela
Published: July 2020

We study the behavior on time of weak solutions to the non-stationary motion of an incompressible fluid with shear rate dependent viscosity in bounded domains when the initial velocity $${u}_0 {\in } {L}^2$$

u
0

∈

L

2

. Our estimates show the different behavior of the solution as the growth condition of the stress tensor varies. In the “dilatant” or “shear thickening” case we prove that the decay rate does not depend on $$u_0$$

u
0

, then our estimates also apply for irregular initial velocity.
Prospective assessment of two-gene urinary test with multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging of the prostate for men undergoing primary prostate biopsy
Authors: Busetto Gian Maria , Del Giudice Francesco , Maggi Martina , De Marco Ferdinando , Porreca Angelo , Sperduti Isabella , Magliocca Fabio Massimo , Salciccia Stefano , Chung Benjamin I. , De Berardinis Ettore , Sciarra Alessandro
Published: July 2020

Purpose

To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of SelectMDx and its association with multiparametric magnetic resonance (mpMRI) in predicting prostate cancer (PCa) and clinically significant PCa (csPCa) on prostate biopsies among men scheduled for initial prostate biopsy.

Methods

In this single-center prospective study, 52 men scheduled for initial prostate biopsy, based on elevated total PSA level (> 3 ng/ml) or abnormal digital rectal examination, were consecutively included. All subjects underwent SelectMDx, PSA determination and mpMRI.

Results

SelectMDx score was positive in 94.1 and 100% of PCa and csPCa, respectively, and in only 8.6% of negative cases at biopsy. The probability for a csPCa at the SelectMDx score was significantly (p = 0.002) higher in csPCa (median value 52.0%) than in all PCa (median value 30.0%). SelectMDx showed slightly lower sensitivity (94.1 versus 100.0%) but higher specificity (91.4%) than total PSA (17.1%), and the same sensitivity but higher specificity than mpMRI (80.0%) in predicting PCa at biopsy. The association of SelectMDx plus mpMRI rather than PSA density (PSAD) plus mpMRI showed higher specificity (both 91.4%) compared to the association of PSA plus mpMRI (85.7%). In terms of csPCa predictive value, SelectMDx showed higher specificity (73.3%) than PSA (13.3%) and mpMRI (64.4%); as for the association of SelectMDx plus mpMRI (75.6%) versus PSA plus mpMRI (68.9%), the association of PSAD plus mpMRI showed the highest specificity (80.0%).

Conclusion

Our results of SelectMDx can be confirmed as significant but their impact on clinical practice together with a cost-effectiveness evaluation should be investigated in a larger prospective multicenter analysis.
Neue ESC/ERS-Leitlinien für Lungenembolie
Authors: Olschewski Horst
Published: July 2020

In den neuen ESC/ERS-Leitlinien (European Society of Cardiology/European Respiratory Society) für die Lungenembolie wurden die bisherigen Prinzipien und Empfehlungen aus dem Jahr 2014 in weiten Teilen übernommen, allerdings wird bei der Diagnostik nun empfohlen, altersadaptierte Grenzwerte für den d‑Dimer-Test und die YEARS-Kriterien zu erwägen. Bei der hämodynamisch stabilen Lungenembolie werden neue orale Antikoagulanzien (NOAK) als Therapie der ersten Wahl empfohlen, außer bei Vorliegen einer spezifische Kontraindikation, z. B. Nierenversagen oder Lupusantikoagulanssyndrom. In der Schwangerschaft und Stillzeit sind weiterhin nur niedermolekulare Heparine (LMWH) empfohlen. Für den Verdacht auf Lungenembolie in der Schwangerschaft wurde ein eigener Managementalgorithmus entwickelt. Nach der neuen Empfehlung zur langfristigen Nachkontrolle nach Lungenembolie soll bei bestimmten Kriterien eine weitere Diagnostik auf chronisch thromboembolische pulmonale Hypertonie (CTEPH) erfolgen.
Response of cells on a dense array of micro-posts
Authors: Vigliotti A. , Shishvan S. S. , McMeeking R. M. , Deshpande V. S.
Published: July 2020

We have analysed the response of cells on a bed of micro-posts idealized as a Winkler foundation using a homeostatic mechanics framework. The framework enables quantitative estimates of the stochastic response of cells along with the coupled analysis of cell spreading, contractility and mechano-sensitivity. In particular the model is shown to accurately predict that: (i) the extent of cell spreading, actin polymerisation as well as the traction forces that cells exert increase with increasing stiffness of the foundation; (ii) the traction forces that cells exert are primarily concentrated along the cell periphery; and (iii) while the total tractions increase with increasing cell area the average tractions are reasonably independent of cell area, i.e. for a given substrate stiffness, the average tractions that are normalized by cell area do not vary strongly with cell size. These results thus suggest that the increased foundation stiffness causes both the cell area and the average tractions that the cells exert to increase through higher levels of stress-fibre polymerization rather than the enhanced total tractions being directly linked through causation to the larger cell areas. A defining feature of the model is that its predictions are statistical in the form of probability distributions of observables such as the traction forces and cell area. In contrast, most existing models present solutions to specific boundary value problems where the cell morphology is imposed a priori. In particular, in line with observations we predict that the diversity of cell shapes, sizes and measured traction forces increase with increasing foundation stiffness. The homeostatic mechanics framework thus suggests that the diversity of observations in in vitro experiments is inherent to the homeostatic equilibrium of cells rather than being a result of experimental errors.
Ethical issues in assistive ambient living technologies for ageing well
Authors: Panico Francesco , Cordasco Gennaro , Vogel Carl , Trojano Luigi , Esposito Anna
Published: July 2020

Assistive Ambient Living (AAL) in ageing refers to any device used to support ageing related psychological and physical changes aimed at improving seniors’ quality of life and reducing caregivers’ burdens. The diffusion of these devices opens the ethical issues related to their use in the human personal space. This is particularly relevant when AAL technologies are devoted to the ageing population that exhibits special bio-psycho-social aspects and needs. In spite of this, relatively little research has focused on ethical issues that emerge from AAL technologies. The present article addresses ethical issues emerging when AAL technologies are implemented for assisting the elderly population and is aimed at raising awareness of these aspects among healthcare providers. The overall conclusion encourages a person-oriented approach when designing healthcare facilities. This process must be fulfilled in compliance with the general principles of ethics and individual nature of the person devoted to. This perspective will develop new research paradigms, paving the way for fulfilling essential ethical principles in the development of future generations of personalized AAL devices to support ageing people living independently at their home.
On Two-Weight Norm Inequalities for Positive Dyadic Operators
Authors: Hänninen Timo S. , Verbitsky Igor E.
Published: July 2020

Let σ and ω be locally finite Borel measures on ℝd, and let $p\in (1,\infty )$
p
∈
(
1
,
∞
)
and $q\in (0,\infty )$
q
∈
(
0
,
∞
)
. We study the two-weight norm inequality $ \lVert T(f\sigma ) \rVert _{L^{q}(\omega )}\leq C \lVert f \rVert _{L^{p}(\sigma )}, \quad \text {for all} f \in L^{p}(\sigma ), $
∥
T
(
f
σ
)

∥

L

q

(
ω
)

≤
C
∥
f

∥

L

p

(
σ
)

,

for all
f
∈

L

p

(
σ
)
,
for both the positive summation operators T = Tλ(⋅σ) and positive maximal operators T = Mλ(⋅σ). Here, for a family {λQ} of non-negative reals indexed by the dyadic cubes Q, these operators are defined by $ T_{\lambda }(f\sigma ):={\sum }_{Q} \lambda _{Q} \langle {f}\rangle ^{\sigma }_{Q} 1_{Q} \quad \text { and } \quad M_{\lambda }(f\sigma ):=\sup _{Q} \lambda _{Q} \langle {f}\rangle ^{\sigma }_{Q} 1_{Q}, $

T

λ

(
f
σ
)
:
=

∑

Q

λ

Q

〈
f
〉

Q

σ

1

Q

and

M

λ

(
f
σ
)
:
=

sup

Q

λ

Q

〈
f
〉

Q

σ

1

Q

,
where $\langle {f}\rangle ^{\sigma }_{Q}:=\frac {1}{\sigma (Q)} {\int \limits }_{Q} |f| d \sigma $

〈
f
〉

Q

σ

:
=

1

σ
(
Q
)

∫

Q

|
f
|
d
σ
. We obtain new characterizations of the two-weight norm inequalities in the following cases: (1) For T = Tλ(⋅σ) in the subrange q < p. Under the additional assumption that σ satisfies the $A_{\infty }$

A

∞

condition with respect to ω, we characterize the inequality in terms of a simple integral condition. The proof is based on characterizing the multipliers between certain classes of Carleson measures. (2) For T = Mλ(⋅σ) in the subrange q < p. We introduce a scale of simple conditions that depends on an integrability parameter and show that, on this scale, the sufficiency and necessity are separated only by an arbitrarily small integrability gap. (3) For the summation operators T = Tλ(⋅σ) in the subrange 1 < q < p. We characterize the inequality for summation operators by means of related inequalities for maximal operators T = Mλ(⋅σ). This maximal-type characterization is an alternative to the known potential-type characterization. The subrange of the exponents q < p appeared recently in applications to nonlinear elliptic PDE with $\lambda _{Q} = \sigma (Q) |Q|^{\frac {\alpha }{d}-1}$

λ

Q

=
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, α ∈ (0, d). In this important special case Tλ is a discrete analogue of the Riesz potential $I_{\alpha }=(-{\Delta })^{-\frac {\alpha }{2}}$

I

α

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(
−
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, and Mλ is the dyadic fractional maximal operator.
Novel coronavirus epidemic in the Hungarian population, a cross-sectional nationwide survey to support the exit policy in Hungary
Authors: Merkely Béla , Szabó Attila J. , Kosztin Annamária , Berényi Ervin , Sebestyén Andor , Lengyel Csaba , Merkely Gergő , Karády Júlia , Várkonyi István , Papp Csaba , Miseta Attila , Betlehem József , Burián Katalin , Csóka Ildikó , Vásárhelyi Barna , Ludwig Endre , Prinz Gyula , Sinkó János , Hankó Balázs , Varga Péter , Fülöp Gábor Áron , Mag Kornélia , Vokó Zoltán ,   for the HUNgarian COronaVirus-19 Epidemiological Research (H-UNCOVER) investigators
Published: July 2020

After months of restrictive containment efforts to fight the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) epidemic, European countries are planning to reopen. To support the process, we conducted a cross-sectional survey among the Hungarian population to estimate the prevalence of infectious cases and prior SARS-CoV-2 exposure. A representative sample (n = 17,787) for the Hungarian population of 14 years or older living in private households (n = 8,283,810) was selected. The study was performed within 16 days after 50 days of restrictions, when the number of confirmed cases was stable low. Naso- and oropharyngeal smears and blood samples were collected for PCR and antibody testing. The testing was accompanied by a questionnaire about symptoms, comorbidities, and contacts. Design-based prevalence estimates were calculated. In total, 10,474 individuals (67.7% taken into account a sample frame error of 2315) of the selected sample participated in the survey. Of the tested individuals, 3 had positive PCR and 69 had positive serological test. Population estimate of the number of SARS-CoV-2 infection and seropositivity were 2421 and 56,439, respectively, thus active infection rate (2.9/10,000) and the prevalence of prior SARS-CoV-2 exposure (68/10,000) was low. Self-reported loss of smell or taste and body aches were significantly more frequent among those with SARS-CoV-2. In this representative, cross-sectional survey of the Hungarian population with a high participation rate, the overall active infection rate was low in sync with the prevalence of prior SARS-CoV-2 exposure. We demonstrated a potential success of containment efforts, supporting an exit strategy. NCT04370067, 30.04.2020.
The 2039 A/G FSH receptor gene polymorphism influences glucose metabolism in healthy men
Authors: Cannarella Rossella , Musso Nicolò , Condorelli Rosita A. , Musmeci Marco , Stefani Stefania , Aversa Antonio , La Vignera Sandro , Calogero Aldo E.
Published: July 2020

Objective

To assess the role of c. 2039 A/G (p. Asp680Ser) (rs6166) and c. −29 G/A (rs1394205) follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) gene single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in a cohort of healthy men.

Methods

One-hundred twenty-seven healthy men underwent evaluation of the anthropometric parameters, assessment of metabolic and lipid profile, measurement FSH serum levels, and genotyping of both the aforementioned FSHR SNPs. Data grouped according to the FSHR rs6166 or rs1394205 genotypes underwent to statistical analysis.

Main results

The three groups of men for each FSHR SNP did not differ statistically significantly for body mass index and serum FSH levels. As for FSHR rs6166 SNP, glucose levels were significantly lower in men with the GG genotype compared with those with the AA genotype. Men with AG had lower insulin levels and HOMA index values compared with those carrying the genotype AA (p < 0.05). The GG group showed a negative correlation between serum FSH levels and insulin and between serum FSH levels and HOMA index (p < 0.05). In contrast, men grouped according to the FSHR rs1394205 genotype showed no significant difference in blood glucose, serum insulin levels, and HOMA index. The AG group showed a negative correlation between FSH insulin and between serum FSH levels and HOMA index (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Men with the genotype GG of the FSHR rs6166 SNP have lower blood glucose levels than those with the AA genotype. Their FSH levels inversely correlated with insulin and HOMA index. In contrast, the genotype FSHR rs6166 A/G did not reveal any role of FSH on glucose metabolism in healthy men. The inverse relationship between FSH and insulin or HOMA index in the group with the genotype GG of the FSHR rs6166 SNP suggests a possible cross-talk between FSH and insulin.
COVID-19 as part of the hyperferritinemic syndromes: the role of iron depletion therapy
Authors: Perricone Carlo , Bartoloni Elena , Bursi Roberto , Cafaro Giacomo , Guidelli Giacomo Maria , Shoenfeld Yehuda , Gerli Roberto
Published: July 2020

SARS-CoV-2 infection is characterized by a protean clinical picture that can range from asymptomatic patients to life-threatening conditions. Severe COVID-19 patients often display a severe pulmonary involvement and develop neutrophilia, lymphopenia, and strikingly elevated levels of IL-6. There is an over-exuberant cytokine release with hyperferritinemia leading to the idea that COVID-19 is part of the hyperferritinemic syndrome spectrum. Indeed, very high levels of ferritin can occur in other diseases including hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, macrophage activation syndrome, adult-onset Still’s disease, catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome and septic shock. Numerous studies have demonstrated the immunomodulatory effects of ferritin and its association with mortality and sustained inflammatory process. High levels of free iron are harmful in tissues, especially through the redox damage that can lead to fibrosis. Iron chelation represents a pillar in the treatment of iron overload. In addition, it was proven to have an anti-viral and anti-fibrotic activity. Herein, we analyse the pathogenic role of ferritin and iron during SARS-CoV-2 infection and propose iron depletion therapy as a novel therapeutic approach in the COVID-19 pandemic.
Optimization of dissolved Radon monitoring in groundwater to contribute to the evaluation of the seismic activity: an experience in central-southern Italy
Authors: Barberio M. D. , Gori F. , Barbieri M. , Billi A. , Casalati F. , Franchini S. , Lorenzetti L. , Petitta M.
Published: July 2020

Anomalies in Radon (222Rn) concentrations prior to earthquakes have been widely documented in seismogenic areas worldwide, but questions about their predictability remain largely unanswered. Even if it is not universally accepted, the analysis of the high-resolution time series of Rn (222Rn) concentrations in groundwater, air and soil has been proposed as a suitable method to identify seismic precursors. This study, which is aimed at identifying potential gas-geochemical precursors to nearby earthquakes, analyses groundwater Rn concentrations, which were continuously measured between April 2017 and December 2019. We conducted a detailed time series analysis of dissolved Rn in two springs emerging along two active fault zones in the inner sector of the central-southern Apennines (i.e. the Matese and Morrone fault zones) in Italy. We used a simple statistical method to identify seismic precursor anomalies in Rn concentrations. Anomalies are commonly assumed as values exceeding ± 2σ. Furthermore, we calculated the strain radius (for which a gas-geochemical precursor was expected) and the epicentral distance (from both our monitoring stations) of each seismic event of Mw ≥ 3.5 that occurred in the monitoring area. Results from our ongoing research are promising and show significant correlations between seismic signals and Rn concentrations. However, longer time series data that include more energetic earthquakes are needed to shed light on the behaviour of this gas in relation to crustal deformation processes.
Gambling advertising during live televised male sporting events in Ireland: A descriptive study
Authors: Columb D. , Wong M. C. , O’Mahony V. , Harrington C. , Griffiths M. D. , O’Gara C.
Published: July 2020

Objectives:

There are no data relating to gambling advertisements shown during live sporting events in Ireland. The aim of the present study was to analyze gambling advertisements shown during live sporting events broadcast in Ireland and to assess these advertisements for responsible gambling (RG) practices.

Methods:

Sixty-five live televised sporting events comprising Association Football (soccer), Rugby Union, and Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) matches broadcast in Ireland were analyzed. Pre-match (up to 30 minutes before kick-off), half-time, and post-match (up to 30 minutes after the match has ended) advertisement breaks were analyzed for gambling advertisements, including in-game fixed (static advertising) and dynamic (electronic advertisements changing at regular intervals) pitch-side advertising. Gambling advertisements were studied for evidence of RG practices.

Results:

A total of 3602 television advertisements, 618 dynamic advertisements, and 394 static advertisements were analyzed. Gambling advertisements were shown in 75.4% (n = 49) games and were the seventh most commonly televised advertisement shown overall. Gambling advertising was more common in football (fourth most common advertisement) compared to rugby (12th most common) and GAA (13th most common). Static and dynamic gambling advertising were common during football matches (second and first most common advertisements, respectively). The majority of advertisements contained RG messaging, an age limit, and an RG organization. No advertisements showing responsible gambling tools were observed.

Conclusions:

Gambling advertisements are commonly shown during live televised sporting broadcasts in Ireland, especially during live football matches and typically before the adult television watershed. Gambling legislation is required to minimize harm to vulnerable groups including children.
A -ANALOGUE OF A DWORK-TYPE SUPERCONGRUENCE
Authors: WANG XIAOXIA , YUE MINGBING
Published: July 2020

By making use of the ‘creative microscoping’ method, Guo and Zudilin [‘Dwork-type supercongruences through a creative $q$-microscope’, Preprint, 2020, arXiv:2001.02311] proved several Dwork-type supercongruences, including some conjectures of Swisher. In this paper, we apply the Guo–Zudilin method to prove a new Dwork-type supercongruence, which uniformly generalises several conjectures of Swisher.
Dietary sodium:potassium ratio and CVD risk factors among Japanese adults: a retrospective cross-sectional study of pooled data from the National Health and Nutrition Survey, 2003–2017
Authors: Okada Emiko , Okada Chika , Matsumoto Mai , Fujiwara Aya , Takimoto Hidemi
Published: July 2020

Few studies have reported associations between the Na:K ratio and risk factors related to CVD among the general population in Asian countries. This study aimed to investigate the dietary Na:K ratio association with CVD risk factors among Japanese adults. This retrospective cross-sectional study included 48 800 Japanese participants (19 386 men and 29 414 women) aged ≥20 years, registered in the 2003–2017 National Health and Nutrition Survey. Multivariate OR and 95 % CI for risk of hypertension, high glycated HbA1c levels, hypercholesterolaemia, low serum levels of HDL-cholesterol and high non-HDL-cholesterol levels according to the Na:K ratio were estimated using logistic regression models. Dietary Na:K ratio decreased for both men and women from 2003 to 2017. Higher Na:K ratio and higher hypertension prevalence were observed (multivariate OR (fifth v. first quintiles) 1·27, 95 % CI 1·15, 1·40; Pfor trend < 0·001 for men and 1·12, 95 % CI 1·01, 1·23; Pfor trend = 0·007 for women). Higher Na:K ratio was associated with higher prevalence of high HbA1c levels in men (multivariate OR 1·56, 95 % CI 1·24, 1·96). Prevalence of low HDL-cholesterol levels was increased with higher Na:K ratio (Pfor trend =0·002 for men and <0·001 for women). No significant associations were found between Na:K ratio and hypercholesterolaemia in men or high non-HDL-cholesterol levels in both men and women. Our findings suggest that dietary Na:K ratio is associated with several CVD risk factors among Japanese adults.
Life history of aggression in Anastatus disparis (Hymenoptera: Eupelmidae) with extreme male–male combat
Authors: Liu Peng-Cheng , Hao De-Jun , Hu Wei , Wei Jian-Rong , Wang Jian-Jun
Published: July 2020

Aggressive behaviour is common in animals and typically has lifetime consequences. As younger males have higher residual reproductive value than older males and lose more from injuries than older males do, the propensity for fighting tends to increase with age in many empirical reports and species. However, fighting patterns in those empirical reports cannot confirm the hypothesis that individuals cannot readily inflict injuries on their opponents. To address this shortcoming, a parasitoid wasp species, Anastatus disparis (Hymenoptera: Eupelmidae), was used as an experimental model to explore the characteristics of aggression from a life-history perspective; this wasp exhibits extreme fighting, resulting in contestants experiencing injury and death. Results showed that the energetic costs of fighting to injury significantly shortened life and caused the loss of most mating ability. Inconsistent with general predictions, the frequency and intensity of fighting in A. disparis significantly decreased with male age. Further study results showed significantly more young males were received by and successfully mated with virgin females, and most genes related to energy metabolism were downregulated in aged males. Our study provided supporting evidence that young A. disparis males show more aggression likely because of their resource holding potential and sexual attractiveness decline with age.