bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A preliminary validation of a Norwegian version of the Tinnitus Sample Case History Questionnaire
Authors: Sørensen Martin , Nielsen Guri E. , Larsen Linda
Published: January 2020

At present there is no validated tinnitus questionnaire available in Norway. The aim of the present study was to psychometrically evaluate and report on a Norwegian translation of the Tinnitus Sample Case History Questionnaire (TSCHQ). Furthermore, the results were compared to those of a recent Swedish validation of TSCHQ. More than two hundred (N = 218) participants with tinnitus participated in the study, of which 78% completed the Norwegian TSCHQ on two occasions so that test‐retest reliability could be evaluated. Results show that the Norwegian TSCHQ has acceptable test‐retest reliability with the exception of 10 items, which is slightly better than the recent Swedish validation of TSCHQ. At the item level, there were both similarities and differences between the Norwegian and Swedish validation studies. It is concluded that the Norwegian TSCHQ is an appropriate measure of patients’ history and experience of tinnitus, and while we recommend further validation of the Norwegian TSCHQ, we encourage Norwegian researchers and clinicians to use the Norwegian translation of TSCHQ.
Enhanced‐efficiency nitrogen fertilizers reduce winter losses of nitrous oxide, but not of ammonia, from no‐till soil in a subtropical agroecosystem
Authors: Ribeiro Ricardo Henrique , Besen Marcos Renan , Simon Priscila Luzia , Bayer Cimelio , Piva Jonatas Thiago
Published: January 2020

Nitrogen (N) gas losses can be reduced by using enhanced‐efficiency N (EEN) fertilizers such as urease inhibitors and coating technologies. In this work, we assessed the potential of EEN fertilizers to reduce winter losses of nitrous oxide (N2O‐N) and ammonia (NH3‐N) from a subtropical field experiment on a clayey Inceptisol under no‐till in Southern Brazil. The EEN sources used included urea containing N‐(n‐butyl) thiophosphoric triamide (UR+NBPT), polymer‐coated urea (P‐CU) and copper‐and‐boron‐coated urea (CuB‐CU) in addition to common urea (UR) and a control treatment without N fertilizer application. N2O‐N and NH3‐N losses were assessed by using the static chamber method and semi‐open static collectors, respectively. Both N2O‐N and NH3‐N exhibited two large peaks with an intervening period of low soil moisture and air temperature. Although the short‐term effect was limited to the first few days after application, UR + NBPT urea decreased soil N2O‐N emissions by 38% relative to UR. In contrast, urease inhibitor technology had no effect on NH3‐N volatilization. Both coating technologies (CuB‐CU and P‐CU) were ineffective in reducing N losses via N2O production or NH3 volatilization. The N2O emission factor (% N applied released as N2O) was unaffected by all N sources and amounted to only 0.48% of N applied—roughly one‐half the default factor of IPCC Tier 1 (1%). Based on our findings, using NBPT‐treated urea in the cold winter season in subtropical agroecosystems provides environmental benefits in the form of reduced soil N2O emissions; however, fertilizer coating technologies provide no agronomic (NH3) or environmental (N2O) advantages.
ABO‐incompatible platelets are associated with increased transfusion reaction rates
Authors: Malvik Natalie , Leon Judith , Schlueter Annette J. , Wu Chaorong , Knudson C. Michael
Published: January 2020

BACKGROUND

ABO compatibility can affect platelet transfusion safety and efficacy, and ABO‐incompatible (ABOi) platelets likely increases the risks of transfusion reactions though the magnitude of this risk is unclear.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Data collected on all platelet transfusions administered over 36+ months were classified based on patient and product ABO blood group type and merged with a data set that included all transfusion reactions reported during that period. The transfusion reaction rates among various subsets was calculated.

RESULTS

In patients greater than 1 year of age, the transfusion reaction rate in the ABO‐compatible (ABO‐identical) platelet group was 1.0%, while the ABOi platelet group had an elevated reaction rate of 1.7%. The increased reaction rate for ABOi platelets held true even if the analysis were limited to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention/National Healthcare Safety Network qualifying reactions or just allergic or febrile nonhemolytic reactions. The increased reaction rate with ABOi platelets was independent of unit age. Surprisingly, major‐incompatible transfusions (A/B antigen incompatible) had the highest rate of reactions, at 2.0%. During the study period, three acute hemolytic reactions were reported out of 2522 plasma‐incompatible platelet transfusions (0.12%).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results find that compatible platelet transfusions have the lowest rate of transfusion reactions. While hemolytic reactions were observed with plasma‐incompatible transfusions, the rate was low. Transfusion of ABO antigen‐incompatible platelets had the highest rate of transfusion reactions and resulted in a transfusion reaction rate 1.5 to 2 times that of ABO compatible transfusions.
Spread of Impatiens glandulifera from riparian habitats to forests and its associated impacts: insights from a new invasion
Authors: Čuda J , Skálová H , Pyšek P
Published: January 2020

Impatiens glandulifera is a globally successful invader that primarily spreads along riparian habitats; however, during the last ~20 years, it has started to colonise forests, but little has been published on impacts of this recent spread. Several factors may have contributed to this phenomenon: (i) high propagule pressure from large and widespread riparian populations, (ii) extensive anthropogenic and natural disturbances in the forest ecosystems, (iii) increased use of forest machinery efficiently spreading the seeds together with (iv) a wide environmental tolerance of the species. The impacts of I. glandulifera on native communities in forests are manifold. Contrasting effects are reported on native plant species diversity, richness and growth of saplings of co‐occurring species, as well as negative effects on soil mycorrhizal fungi. We suggest that the eradication of I. glandulifera populations in forests is more feasible than along watercourses because the recolonisation in forests is limited and, in some cases, populations are outcompeted by woody species during succession.
Patterns and processes in a non‐adaptive radiation: Alopia (Gastropoda, Clausiliidae) in the Bucegi Mountains
Authors: Koch Eva L. , Neiber Marco T. , Walther Frank , Hausdorf Bernhard
Published: January 2020

We studied the door‐snail genus Alopia in the Southern Carpathians in Romania to better understand non‐adaptive radiations and the processes that determine their course. Alopia in the Bucegi Mountains offers the opportunity to study all stages of a radiation within a few kilometres. The species (as defined by the differential fitness species concept) in the most advanced stage of the radiation differs from other species in the genitalia and co‐occurs with other species. The least advanced stages are genetically differentiated clusters of populations that are geographically separated from other clusters but are not yet morphologically differentiated. Differentiation does not increase with a constant rate as shown by a lineage that was separated early in the evolution of the genus but fused with other taxa upon secondary contact. Since non‐adaptive radiation cannot be accelerated by divergent natural selection beyond the slow pace of speciation that is possible by genetic drift alone, sexual selection plays a crucial role in non‐adaptive radiations. This is supported by the differences in the genitalia found in the most advanced stage of the speciation which indicate that the speciation process was accelerated by a co‐evolutionary arms race resulting in the elongation of spermatophore‐producing and spermatophore‐receiving organs. Another process that facilitates non‐adaptive radiation is long‐distance dispersal that results in geographically isolated populations that can differentiate without gene flow and that have a higher likelihood of speciation due to the founder event. Several taxa that were considered distinct species until now, but fuse upon contact should better be classified as subspecies of a polytypic species.
A Low-Resource Oxygen Blender Prototype for Use in Modified Bubble CPAP Circuits
Authors: Floersch Jared , Hauschildt Elsa , Keester Adam , Poganski Samuel , Tran Kiet , Slusher Tina , Bjorklund Ashley , Fischer Gwenyth , Hale Joseph , Wu Andrew
Published: January 2020

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is a method of respiratory support used around the world to treat children with lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI) (WHO, 2016, Oxygen Therapy for Children, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland, Report). Bubble continuous positive airway pressure (bCPAP) is an effective form of CPAP that is currently used in both high- and low-resource countries. Low-cost, modified bCPAP devices have been designed as an ideal form of CPAP in low-resource areas (Bjorklund, A. R., Mpora, B. O., Steiner, M. E., Fischer, G., Davey, C. S., and Slusher, T. M., 2018, “Use of a Modified Bubble Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (bCPAP) Device for Children in Respiratory Distress in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Safety Study,” Paediatr. Int. Child Health, 39(3), pp. 1–8). However, patients in low-resource settings undergoing bCPAP treatment are often given pure oxygen, which has been linked to retinopathy of prematurity, cardiovascular complications, and patient mortality (Rodgers, J. L., Iyer, D., Rodgers, L. E., Vanthenapalli, S., and Panguluri, S. K., 2019, “Impact of Hyperoxia on Cardiac Pathophysiology,” J. Cell. Physiol., 234(8), pp. 1–9; Ramgopal, S., Dezfulian, C., Hickey, R. W., Au, A. K., Venkataraman, S., Clark, R. S. B., and Horvat, C. M., 2019, “Association of Severe Hyperoxemia Events and Mortality Among Patients Admitted to a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit,” JAMA Network Open, 2(8), p. e199812). This problem is typically avoided by using commercial oxygen blenders, which can titrate down the concentration of oxygen delivered to the minimum needed; however, these blenders can cost nearly 1000 USD and are almost always unavailable in low-resource settings. The lack of available low-cost oxygen blenders compatible with modified bCPAP circuits creates a barrier for low-resource hospitals to be able to provide blended oxygen to patients. There is a need for a low-cost oxygen blender for use in low-resource settings. We propose a passive oxygen blender that operates via entrainment of atmospheric air. The device can easily be assembled in low-resource areas using a 22 gauge hypodermic needle, two 3 cc syringes, tape or super glue, and the materials required for bCPAP—for approximately 1.40 USD per device. The blender has not been clinically tested yet, but can achieve oxygen concentrations as low as 60% with bCPAP levels of 5 cm H2O (490 Pa) when used in a standard bCPAP circuit without a patient.
Evaluation of Pre-Sliding Behavior at a Rough Interface: Modeling and Experiment
Authors: Bazrafshan M. , de Rooij M. B. , de Vries E. G. , Schipper D. J.
Published: January 2020

One of the main issues in precision engineering is the lack of deep understanding of the pre-sliding behavior at the interface of mating surfaces of positioning mechanisms. In addition to the mechanical properties of the contacting bodies, their surface topography plays a key role in the pre-sliding regime and has a great impact on the frictional stiffness. This paper experimentally evaluates a boundary element method (BEM) model for the pre-sliding behavior at the interface of a smooth silicon wafer and a rough polymeric ball. The polymeric ball is either high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polyoxymethylene (POM). The experiments are conducted at three different normal loads on five different spots on the wafer. The sliding stroke and coefficient of friction are extracted from experiments to be implemented as inputs to the numerical model. The roughness of the balls is also another input. The numerical and experimental friction hysteresis loops are compared. There is a small difference in the predicted pre-sliding distance from the experiments. The lateral stiffness, calculated at three different points on the pre-sliding regime of friction hysteresis loops, is compared with the Mindlin’s solution and experimental values for both contact interfaces and normal loads.
Bio-Inspired Soft Swim Bladders of Large Volume Change Using Dual Dielectric Elastomer Membranes
Authors: Wang Yingxi , Loh Leon Yeong Wei , Gupta Ujjaval , Foo Choon Chiang , Zhu Jian
Published: January 2020

The buoyancy control mechanism is critical for undersea robots to achieve effective vertical motion. However, current buoyancy control mechanisms are associated with problems such as complex design, bulky structure, noisy operation, and slow response. Inspired by the swim bladder of natural fish, we develop an artificial swim bladder, using dual membranes of the dielectric elastomer, which exhibit interesting attributes, including fast response, light weight, silent operation, especially large volume change. Both the experiments and theoretical simulations are conducted to analyze the performance of this artificial swim bladder, and they quantitatively agree with each other. This artificial swim bladder of dual membranes is capable of large voltage-induced volume change, 112% larger than the conventional single-membrane design. Consequently, this soft actuator can generate a buoyancy force of 0.49 N. This artificial swim bladder demonstrates effective up-and-down motion in water, due to its large reversible volume change. Future work includes adding horizontal-motion and turning capabilities to the existing robotic structure, so that the soft robotic fish can achieve successful navigation in undersea environments.
Division 5—High Temperature Reactors
Authors: Jetter Robert I. , Mitchell Mark , Morton D. Keith
Published: January 2020

This chapter provides commentary on a new division under Section III of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel (BPV) Code. This Division 5 was first published as part of the 2011 Addenda to the 2010 Edition of the BPV Code. The chapter provides information on the scope and need for Division 5, the structure of Division 5, where the rules originated, the basis for the elevated temperature rules specified in Division 5, the various changes made in finalizing Division 5, and the future near-term and long-term expectations for Division 5 development. It reflects the 2015 Edition of Division 5. Division 5 identifies rules for high temperature reactors (HTRs) based on only two classifications, Class A for safety-related components and Class B for non-safety related but with special treatment components. It contains general requirements for both metals and graphite in Subsection HA, Subpart A and Subpart B, respectively. Rules for Class A metallic pressure boundary components, Class B metallic pressure boundary components, and Class A core support structures at both low temperature conditions (under Subpart A) and elevated temperature conditions (under Subpart B) are contained in Subsections HB, HC, and HG, respectively. Rules for Class A and B metallic supports are contained in Subsection NF, Subpart A. Finally, new rules for nonmetallic core support structures (graphite) are contained in Subsection HH, Subpart A. Consistent with current Code practice, the primary concern of Division 5 is the integrity of the components under design, operating conditions (including normal, upset, emergency, and faulted), and test conditions. Division 5 covers all construction aspects of these components, including administrative requirements, material selection and qualification, design, fabrication, examination, inspection, testing, quality assurance, and documentation.

History

Effective with the 2015 Edition of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, “Subsection NH of Div. 1 of Section III” was discontinued and the subject matter transferred to Subsection HB, “Class A Metallic Pressure Boundary Components,” Subpart B, “Elevated Temperature Service” of Div. 5 of Section III. Accordingly, the subject matter previously covered in Chapter 12 of Fourth Edition and prior editions is now covered in an expanded version of Chapter 17 “Division.

The current online edition was updated by Robert I. Jetter and Mark Mitchell with contributions from the BPV Committee on Construction of Nuclear Facility Components (III).
Section VIII, Division 3— Alternative Rules for Construction of High-Pressure Vessels
Authors: Sims J. Robert , Cooch S. Michael
Published: January 2020

This chapter provides a commentary on the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section VIII, Division 3, 2019 Edition. It is intended to be used as a companion to Division 3 by Manufacturers and Users of high-pressure vessels, and will also provide guidance to Inspectors, materials suppliers, and others. The material is generally presented in the same order in which it appears in the Code. Comments are not given about each paragraph, but paragraph numbers are referenced as appropriate. The comments apply to the 2019 Edition.

History

The original author of this chapter was J. Robert Sims Jr. who updated the chapter for the second, third and fourth editions and was joined by Charles Becht V for the fifth edition. For this revision, Mr. Sims has been joined by S. Michael Cooch.
Transportation Pipelines, Including ASME B31.4, B31.8, B31.8S, B31G, and B31Q Codes
Authors: Rosenfeld Michael J.
Published: January 2020

There are five ASME codes that apply to the transportation of oil and gas by pipeline. ASME B31.4 covers the transportation of liquids such as crude oil and refined petroleum products. The standard also covers certain non-hydrocarbon liquids, namely anhydrous ammonia, carbon dioxide, and aqueous mineral slurries. This chapter discusses the 2019 Edition of B31.4. ASME B31.8 covers transmission and local distribution of natural gas. This chapter discusses the 2020 Edition of B31.8. ASME B31.8S is a supplement to B31.8 covering integrity management of natural gas transmission pipelines. This chapter discusses the 2020 Edition of B31.8S. B31G covers evaluation of the fitness for service of B31.4 and B31.8 pipelines affected by corrosion. This chapter discusses the 2020 Edition of B31G. B31Q covers the qualification of frontline personnel who work on B31.4 and B31.8 pipeline systems. This chapter discusses the 2021 Edition of B31Q.

History

This chapter was newly created for the fourth edition. Michael J. Rosenfeld is the original author and has updated all editions including the current online edition.
Capabilities for Physical Activity by Turkish- and Russian-Speaking Immigrants Aged 65 Years and Older in Germany: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Frahsa Annika , Streber Anna , Wolff Andrea R. , Rütten Alfred
Published: January 2020

This study builds upon Sen’s seminal capability approach to analyze the interplay of individual and structural factors for immigrants’ physical activity (PA) in old age. The authors conducted software-assisted thematic analysis of group interviews with Turkish- and Russian-speaking immigrants aged 65 years and older in Germany (n = 19). The authors present how interviewees perceive diverse resources, environmental, social, and individual factors that shape their capabilities for PA. Age-related health literacy, family support, and access rules to sport opportunities shape both groups’ capabilities for PA. Turkish interviewees’ continuous bilocation and Russian interviewees’ past experience with PA as workplace exercise are two major differences between those groups. Results indicate that capabilities are ambiguous—managed and shaped by individuals, which makes more static terms like barriers and options less helpful for an analysis. Systematically applying the capability approach in intervention research would allow to analyze interaction and to ultimately better reach underserved groups like immigrants 65 years and older.
Cracking the context-specific PI3K signaling code
Authors: Madsen Ralitsa R. , Vanhaesebroeck Bart
Published: January 2020

Different cellular and environmental contexts produce distinct biological outcomes for PI3K signaling.
Genomic Sequencing To Identify Potential Causative Mutation(s) of Neurospora crassa
col-4
Authors: Randall Thomas A.
Published: January 2020

In many cases, genes for commonly used genetic markers in model organisms have not been identified; therefore, it is of interest to identify the causative genes. Whole-genome sequencing was used to identify potential causative mutations for a
col-4
allele of
Neurospora crassa
.
Draft Genome Sequences of Two Boron-Tolerant, Arsenic-Resistant, Gram-Positive Bacterial Strains, Lysinibacillus sp. OL1 and Enterococcus sp. OL5, Isolated from Boron-Fortified Cauliflower-Growing Field Soils of Northern West Bengal, India
Authors: Sen Subhajit , Saha Tilak , Bhattacharya Sabyasachi , Nidhi  , Mondal Nibendu , Ghosh Wriddhiman , Chakraborty Ranadhir
Published: January 2020

Two novel boron-tolerant, arsenic-resistant, Gram-positive bacterial strains,
Lysinibacillus
sp. OL1 and
Enterococcus
sp. OL5, were isolated from boron fertilizer-amended cauliflower plantation field soils in India. Here, we report the draft genome sequences of OL1 (4.87 Mb) and OL5 (3.93 Mb) to explore the intricacies of boron tolerance in bacteria.
Genome Sequence of Bacillus thuringiensis Strain MW, a Freshwater Isolate
Authors: Williams Alexander N. , MacLea Kyle S.
Published: January 2020

Bacillus thuringiensis
is an agriculturally significant bacterium and common biological pesticide.
B. thuringiensis
strain MW was isolated from a freshwater stream in Mont Vernon, NH, and sequenced. A draft genome assembly of 5,935,630 bp with a G+C content of 34.86% and an
N
50
value of 1,154,949 bp was generated.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Novel Coastal Bacterium LSUCC0115 from the MWH-UniPo Clade, Order
Burkholderiales
, Class
Betaproteobacteria
Authors: Henson Michael W. , Guidry Megan E. , Carnes M. Katherine , Thrash J. Cameron
Published: January 2020

Here, we present the draft genome of LSUCC0115, a novel coastal Gulf of Mexico bacterioplankton isolate within the order
Burkholderiales
. LSUCC0115 has the metabolic potential for aerobic heterotrophy, phototrophy, and lithoautotrophy, as well as genes for flagellar assembly and quorum sensing.
Leptospirosis manifested with severe pulmonary haemorrhagic syndrome successfully treated with venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors: Chaikajornwat Jukkaphop , Rattanajiajaroen Pornpan , Srisawat Nattachai , Kawkitinarong Kamon
Published: January 2020

Leptospirosis, one of the most important of neglected tropical diseases, is a common zoonosis in the tropics. Recent reports have demonstrated that pulmonary haemorrhage is one of the fatal complications of severe leptospirosis. In this report, we present a case of leptospirosis manifested with severe pulmonary haemorrhagic syndrome successfully treated with venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO). A 39-year-old man who lives in Bangkok presented with fever, severe myalgia and haemoptysis. With rapid progression of acute respiratory failure in 6 hours, he was intubated and a litre of fresh blood was suctioned. Chest x-ray showed diffuse alveolar infiltrates compatible with ARDS, then mechanical ventilator with lung protective strategy was used. Diagnosis of leptospirosis with diffuse alveolar haemorrhage was made. Refractory hypoxaemia was not responsive to positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP); thus, VV-ECMO was initiated on the first day. Other treatments included plasmapheresis, intravenous pulse methylprednisolone and intravenous antibiotics. The outcome of treatment was successful, and this patient was discharged to home on day 14 after admission.
Epidemiology of podoconiosis in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Alemnew Birhan , Fasil Alebachew , Mulatu Tesfahun , Bililign Nigus , Esthetie Setegn , Demis Asmamaw
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Podoconiosis is a non-filarial swelling of the lower extremity endemic in tropical regions, North America and India. The aetiology and pathophysiology of the disease remain unknown. We propose conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the burden and risk factors of podoconiosis in Ethiopia reported in studies from 2009 to 2019.

Methods and analysis

We will search the following electronic databases: PubMed (MEDLINE), EMBASE, Hinari, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, ISI (Web of Science) and Google Scholar. Medical subject headings will be used to extensively search relevant literature on electronic databases using related keywords such as epidemiology or prevalence, magnitude or burden, podoconiosis, and Ethiopia. Grey literature and manual search will also be performed to retrieve unindexed research articles. Two reviewers will screen all retrieved articles, conduct data extraction and then critically appraise all identified studies. We will analyse data using STATA V.14 statistical software. We will demonstrate pooled estimates of podoconiosis and associated factors with effect size and 95% CI. The presence of heterogeneity among studies will be examined by forest plot as well as the I2heterogeneity test. Potential causes of heterogeneity will be explored by carrying out sensitivity and subgroup analyses. The presence of publication bias will also be examined by observing funnel plots and objectively by Egger’s regression test. If the funnel plot is asymmetric and/or Egger’s test was found to be statistically significant (p<0.05), the trim and fill (Duval and Tweedie’s) analysis will be performed.

Ethics and dissemination

The study will use publicly available data and will not identify the authors of the publication by name. In light of these and as has been indicated, research ethics clearance is not required for evidence syntheses in such reviews. The results of this study will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and presented at national and international conferences.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42019127459.
Rationale and design of the Web-basEd soCial media tecHnology to improvement in Adherence to dual anTiplatelet Therapy following Drug-Eluting Stent Implantation (WECHAT): protocol for a randomised controlled study
Authors: Sun Guo-li , Lei Li , Liu Liwei , Liu Jin , He Yibo , Guo Zhaodong , Dai Xiaohua , He Lihao , Chen Shi-qun , Liang Yan , Ye Jianfeng , Hu Yunzhao , Chen Guoqin , Chen Ji-yan , Liu Yong
Published: January 2020

Background

Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) is frequently discontinued after drug-eluting stent (DES) implantation, which could increase the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs). Few studies have attempted to improve DAPT adherence through web-based social media.

Objective

To explore the effect of social media on DAPT adherence following DES implantation.

Methods/design

The WeChat trial is a multicentre, single-blind, randomised study (1:1). It will recruit 760 patients with DES who require 12 months of DAPT. The control group will only receive usual care and general educational messages on medical knowledge. The intervention group will receive a personalised intervention, including interactive responses and medication and follow-up reminders beyond the general educational messages. The primary endpoint will be the discontinuation rate which is defined as the cessation of any dual antiplatelet drug owing to the participants’ discretion within 1 year of DES implantation. The secondary endpoints will include medication adherence and MACEs. Both groups will receive messages or reminders four times a week with follow-ups over 12 months.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was granted by Ethics Committee of Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (GDREC2018327H). Results will be disseminated via peer-reviewed publications and presentations at international conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT03732066
Design of a state of the art reporting system and process improvement for reporting of high complexity single antigen bead data for transplant patients to the electronic medical record
Authors: Geer Lupita I , Kagele Sonya , Townshend Scot , Watson Brooke , Reed Elaine F , Hickey Michelle J
Published: January 2020

The UCLA Immunogenetics Center is an Immunogenetics and Histocompatibility laboratory that performs testing for multiple transplant programmes within and outside of UCLA. The single antigen bead (SAB) test is a high complexity luminex bead test used to assess pretransplant and post-transplant patients for the presence of pathogenic human leucocyte antigen donor-specific antibody associated with allograft rejection. Efficient reporting of the SAB test has been difficult as data analysis and reports are generated in the laboratory information system (LIS) and uploaded to the electronic medical record (EMR) as PDFs. To solve this, we recently developed a state of the art reporting workflow allowing discrete reporting of SAB data (antibody specificity, mean fluorescent intensity and interpretative comments) from the LIS HistoTrac to UCLA Health System’s EMR EPIC:CareConnect. However, a proportion of tests did not report to the EMR appropriately. Baseline system performance data evaluated over a 10-week period showed that ~4.5/100 tests resulted in EPIC as ‘preliminary result’ or ‘in process’ instead of ‘final result’ with only common cause variation. Quality improvement methods were employed to improve the process with the SMART Aim of reporting 100% of tests as ‘final result’. Pareto analysis identified two errors accounting for 79% of common system-level failures—status errors and interface errors. We hypothesised that addressing the status error would reduce or eliminate the interface errors. We used the Model For Improvement to test a reprogramming intervention. Status and interface errors were completely resolved through the process improvement. Continuous monitoring revealed a system-level shift with only ~1.9/100 tests resulting inappropriately. Through the audit process, the remaining common system-level failures were identified and resolved. Therefore, 100% of tests result to EPIC as ‘final result’. The study demonstrates that high complexity SAB bead data can be efficiently reported EPIC:CareConnect from HistoTrac as discrete data.
Automatic, computer-aided determination of endoscopic and histological inflammation in patients with mild to moderate ulcerative colitis based on red density
Authors: Bossuyt Peter , Nakase Hiroshi , Vermeire Séverine , de Hertogh Gert , Eelbode Tom , Ferrante Marc , Hasegawa Tadashi , Willekens Hilde , Ikemoto Yousuke , Makino Takao , Bisschops Raf
Published: January 2020

Background

The objective evaluation of endoscopic disease activity is key in ulcerative colitis (UC). A composite of endoscopic and histological factors is the goal in UC treatment. We aimed to develop an operator-independent computer-based tool to determine UC activity based on endoscopic images.

Methods

First, we built a computer algorithm using data from 29 consecutive patients with UC and 6 healthy controls (construction cohort). The algorithm (red density: RD) was based on the red channel of the red-green-blue pixel values and pattern recognition from endoscopic images. The algorithm was refined in sequential steps to optimise correlation with endoscopic and histological disease activity. In a second phase, the operating properties were tested in patients with UC flares requiring treatment escalation. To validate the algorithm, we tested the correlation between RD score and clinical, endoscopic and histological features in a validation cohort.

Results

We constructed the algorithm based on the integration of pixel colour data from the redness colour map along with vascular pattern detection. These data were linked with Robarts histological index (RHI) in a multiple regression analysis. In the construction cohort, RD correlated with RHI (r=0.74, p<0.0001), Mayo endoscopic subscores (r=0.76, p<0.0001) and UC Endoscopic Index of Severity scores (r=0.74, p<0.0001). The RD sensitivity to change had a standardised effect size of 1.16. In the validation set, RD correlated with RHI (r=0.65, p=0.00002).

Conclusions

RD provides an objective computer-based score that accurately assesses disease activity in UC. In a validation study, RD correlated with endoscopic and histological disease activity.
The effect of welfare reform on the health of the unemployed: evidence from a natural experiment in Germany
Authors: Shahidi Faraz V , Muntaner Carles , Shankardass Ketan , Quiñonez Carlos , Siddiqi Arjumand
Published: January 2020

Background

Over the past several decades, governments have enacted far-reaching reforms aimed at reducing the generosity and coverage of welfare benefits. Prior literature suggests that these policy measures may have deleterious effects on the health of populations. In this study, we evaluate the impact of one of the largest welfare reforms in recent history—the 2005 Hartz IV reform in Germany—with a focus on estimating its effect on the health of the unemployed.

Methods

We employed a quasi-experimental difference-in-differences (DID) design using population-based data from the German Socio-Economic Panel Study, covering the period between 1994 and 2016. We applied DID linear probability modelling to examine the association between the Hartz IV reform and poor self-rated health, adjusting for a range of demographic and socioeconomic confounders.

Results

The Hartz IV reform was associated with a 3.6 (95% CI 0.9 to 6.2) percentage point increase in the prevalence of poor self-rated health among unemployed persons affected by the reform relative to similar but unaffected controls. This negative association appeared immediately following the implementation of the reform and has persisted over time.

Conclusion

Governments in numerous European and North American jurisdictions have introduced measures to further diminish the generosity and coverage of welfare benefits. In line with growing concerns over the potential consequences of austerity and associated policy measures, our findings suggest that these reform efforts pose a threat to the health of socioeconomically disadvantaged populations.
Mortality in a cohort of 3.1 million children, adolescents and young adults
Authors: Ray Joel G , Guttmann Astrid , Silveira Jose , Park Alison L
Published: January 2020

Background

Many youth deaths occur in the first year of life, from prematurity and anomalies. Detailing mortality after age 1 year may differentially guide preventive strategies in children, adolescents and young adults.

Methods

A cohort study in Ontario, Canada comprised 3 139 698 children born from 1990 to 2016. Adjusted HR (aHR) for death between 1 and 24 years were generated, comparing demographic variables and parity.

Results

After a median of 13.7 years of follow-up, 6930 deaths occurred between ages 1 and 24 years (incidence rate 17.0 per 100 000 person-years), peaking at age 23 years (43.7 per 100 000). The aHR for death was higher among males than females (1.44, 95% CI 1.37 to 1.51), rural versus urban areas (1.48, 95% CI 1.39 to 1.58), lowest versus highest income areas (1.39, 95% CI 1.29 to 1.51) and at parity 1 (1.16, 95% CI 1.10 to 1.23), parity 2 (1.34, 95% CI 1.23 to 1.45), parity 3+ (1.96, 95% CI 1.74 to 2.21), each relative to a child without an older sibling. Among males, the proportion of deaths due to injury jumped from 30% before age 15 years to 65% thereafter, and in females, from 28% to 51%. Intentional self-harm/assault explained 11% of injury-related deaths among males before age 15 years, and 20% thereafter, with respective figures of 18% and 17% for females. Deaths outside of hospital increased with age, from 35% at age 1 year, to 66% at age 22 years.

Conclusion

There is a heightened susceptibility of dying starting at age 15 years, especially among males, from injury, and arising outside of hospital.
Impact of fetal-type posterior cerebral artery on recanalization of posterior communicating artery aneurysms after coil embolization: matched-pair case–control study
Authors: Choi Hyun Ho , Cho Young Dae , Yoo Dong Hyun , Lee Heui Seung , Kim Sung-Hyun , Jang Donghwan , Lee Sung Ho , Cho Won-Sang , Kang Hyun-Seung , Kim Jeong Eun
Published: January 2020

Background

It is well known that hemodynamic stress may impact the recanalization of coiled aneurysms. One of the most common sites for aneurysms to develop is the posterior communicating artery (PcoA), the variants of which are defined by diameter ratios (PcoA/P1 segment).

Objective

This study was undertaken to investigate the impact of a fetal-type posterior cerebral artery (PCA) on recanalization of PcoA aneurysms after coil embolization based on matched-pair (fetal vs non-fetal PCA) analysis.

Methods

A total of 480 consecutive PcoA aneurysms (PCA: fetal, n=156; non-fetal, n=324) subjected to coil embolization between January 2007 and June 2017 were selected for study. All lesions were followed for ≥6 months via radiologic imaging, grouped by adjacent PCAs as fetal (PcoA/P1 >1) or non-fetal (PcoA/P1 ≤1) type. Paired subjects were matched (1:1) for several relevant variables.

Results

Of the 480 coiled aneurysms, 159 (33.1%) showed recanalization (minor, 76; major, 83) in the course of follow-up (mean 33.8±21.9 months), developing significantly more often in fetal (37.8%) than in non-fetal (26.9%; p=0.020) PCA types. Once matched, however, 6-month and cumulative recanalization rates did not differ significantly by group (p=0.531 and p=0.568, respectively). Complications (hemorrhage, p=0.97; thromboembolism, p=0.94) during endovascular coil embolization also showed similar rates in these groups.

Conclusions

The chances of recanalization after coil embolization seem to be greater in PcoA aneurysms than in intracranial aneurysms overall, thus calling for careful follow-up monitoring. Surprisingly, PcoA type appeared unrelated in this regard.
An explicit expression for velocity profile in presence of secondary current and sediment in an open channel turbulent flow
Authors: Jain Punit , Ghoshal Koeli
Published: January 2020

The present study revisits the determination of vertical distribution of streamwise velocity in an open channel turbulent flow considering the effect of secondary current in the presence of sediment together with a concentration dependent settling velocity and von Karman constant κs. The work mainly modifies a previous study that introduced a lot of assumptions to obtain an analytical solution of the velocity distribution. The present study overcomes those assumptions in the model and though not fully analytical, attempts to present a semi-analytical solution that is explicit and in the form of a convergent series. Homotopy analysis method is used for this purpose and it is validated with numerical solution as well as with available laboratory data from the literature. How the secondary current and concentration dependent κsinfluence the velocity profile, is also discussed.
DO CONGLOMERATES OPERATE MORE EFFICIENTLY THAN SINGLE-SEGMENT FIRMS?
Authors: BHATTACHARYA NILABHRA , SULAEMAN JOHAN , YU JEFF JIEWEI
Published: January 2020

We investigate the impact of organizational form on operational efficiency using a large sample covering manufacturing and non-manufacturing sectors in the United States over 30 years. We quantify operational efficiency using various measures, and find robust evidence that segments of diversified firms are operationally more efficient than their single-segment industry peers. The difference is more noticeable in industries where financing needs are high due to greater growth potential and where access to external markets is constrained due to higher information asymmetry.
IMPACT OF ISLAMIC FINANCE ON ECONOMIC GROWTH: AN EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS OF MUSLIM COUNTRIES
Authors: NAZ SYEDA AROOJ , GULZAR SAQIB
Published: January 2020

Islamic finance is one of the most rapidly growing sectors of the global financial system. This paper empirically outlines the pure effect of Islamic finance including Islamic banking and Islamic bonds on economic growth in major Muslim countries. Current study has taken up Islamic banks’ assets and Islamic banks’ financing, total value of sukuk issued and real GDP as measuring proxies. For the analysis, PMG of ARDL framework has been utilized. The outcomes of the study revealed that in the long run, Islamic banks’ assets, Islamic banks’ financing and Islamic bonds are significantly correlated with real GDP in Muslim countries.
DO RECONSTRUCTION INVESTMENTS IMPROVE TECHNOLOGICAL PROGRESS IN AN EARTHQUAKE-STRICKEN AREA? EVIDENCE FROM THE WENCHUAN EARTHQUAKE
Authors: DENG MILAN , WANG LIN , XU HUI , YIN LONG , HUANG LIFANG
Published: January 2020

This study identified the impact of a seismic shock on technological progress in earthquake-stricken areas (ESAs) using a synthetic control method. Technological progress was measured using the total factor productivity (TFP) and the TFP growth rate. The ESAs after the Wenchuan Earthquake in China were used as an empirical case study; the Solow residual model was used to assess the TFP and the TFP growth rate in 16 districts. Counter-factual dynamics for the ESAs were constructed to exclude the effect of the macro-economy. The research findings indicate that technological progress in the ESAs after the Wenchuan Earthquake improved as a result of reconstruction investments. However, there were differences in the speed of technological progress between ESAs. These differences may be attributed to the differences in the industrial characteristics between ESAs. The study concludes that the technological progress of the secondary industry, such as the manufacturing industry and building industry, is more resilient. This refers to the capacity to resist economic losses after the seismic shock, compared to the tertiary industry, such as the service industry and tourist industry. However, there was a larger long-term advancement in the technological progress in the tertiary industry compared to the secondary industry after the earthquake. With this understanding, ESA governments can implement appropriate strategies to meet both short-term needs and sustainable economic growth.
TIME VARIATION OR ASYMMETRY? THE INFLATION AND INFLATION UNCERTAINTY NEXUS: A CASE OF CHINA
Authors: GAO XUE , REN YIXIN , LI XIN
Published: January 2020

This investigation tests the dynamic and quantile causality between inflation and inflation uncertainty of China with constructing a rolling-window based quantile causality test. The result shows unidirectional causality from inflation to inflation uncertainty, which is significantly asymmetric and time-varying. Inflation more likely causes inflation uncertainty in higher quantiles, indicating the linear model based on conditional mean may overestimate this impact in a lower quantile interval. Furthermore, the influence also exhibits a consistent time-varying property that cannot be explained simply by the conditional distribution. The causality shows more significance since 2007 when China cancelled the mandatory settlement system, which led to the increase of monetary policy independence. The time-varying nature indicates institutional changes may lead to regime switching of this causality. Our result supports the Friedman–Ball hypothesis [ Friedman, M ( 1977 ). Nobel lecture: Inflation and unemployment. Journal of Political Economy, 85(3), 451–472; Ball, L ( 1992 ). Why does high inflation raise inflation uncertainty? Journal of Monetary Economic, 29(3), 371–388] to a certain extent and implies that the purpose of controlling inflation uncertainty of China can be achieved by controlling inflation if and only if it is relatively high on the premise of the independence of monetary policy.
Analytical model of dark energy stars
Authors: Banerjee Ayan , Jasim M. K. , Pradhan Anirudh
Published: January 2020

In this paper, we study the structure and stability of compact astrophysical objects which are ruled by the dark energy equation of state (EoS). The existence of dark energy is important for explaining the current accelerated expansion of the universe. Exact solutions to Einstein field equations (EFE) have been found by considering particularized metric potential, Finch and Skea ansatz. 1 The obtained solutions are relevant to the explanation of compact fluid sphere. Further, we have observed at the junction interface that the interior solution is matched with the Schwarzschild’s exterior vacuum solution. Based on that, we have noticed the obtained solutions are well in agreement with the observed maximum mass bound of [Formula: see text], namely, PSR J1416-2230, Vela X-1, 4U 1608-52, Her X-1 and PSR J1903+327, whose predictable masses and radii are not compatible with the standard neutron star models. Also, the stability of the stellar configuration has been discussed briefly, by considering the energy conditions, surface redshift, compactness, mass-radius relation in terms of the state parameter [Formula: see text]. Finally, we demonstrate that the features so obtained are physically acceptable and consistent with the observed/reported data.[Formula: see text] Thus, the present dark energy equation of state appears talented regarding the presence of several exotic astrophysical matters.
Density dependence of symmetry energy in deformed 162Sm nucleus
Authors: Naik K. C. , Kaur Manpreet , Kumar Ankit , Patra S. K.
Published: January 2020

The density dependence of symmetry energy in deformed [Formula: see text]Sm nucleus is discussed in the context of conversion of deformed density into spherical equivalent one by using the different methods. The results present a variation in the symmetry energy, using the spherical equivalent density extracted by different procedures, within the coherent density fluctuation model.
Optimization of bike-sharing parking spot layout based on usage requirements
Authors: Sun Di , Zhou Jin , Wan Furong , Sun Zhiqiang , Gao Xueying
Published: January 2020

In this paper, two problems that exist in parking spot layout of bike-sharing which need to be solved are addressed. One is the size of parking spot, while another is the location of parking spot. First, the generation and attraction model of traffic travel is used to predict the usage requirements of bike-sharing, to acquire the parking requirements of bike-sharing. Then, we establish the best station spacing model to calculate the optimal quantity of parking spots. Moreover, the method of shortest distance clustering is applied to cluster the parking demand spots. Finally, the location optimization of bike-sharing parking spot is carried out by using gravity location model. In summary, the layout of bike-sharing parking spot is finished based on the abovementioned four steps.
Numerical Analysis of CE Processes in RDE Systems: Diffusion and Electro-hydrodynamic Impedances
Authors: Leal P. H. M. , Barcia O. E. , Mattos O. R.
Published: January 2020

This paper presents a numerical analysis of the effect of different parameters (rotation speed, equilibrium constant and Schmidt numbers) on the diffusion (ZD) and electro-hydrodynamic (ZEHD) impedances of chemical-electrochemical (CE) systems in a rotating disk electrode (RDE) configuration. For this purpose, we used a finite difference algorithm to discretize and solve the governing equations. Our results show that the separation between convection-diffusion and reaction impedance loops depends on the ratio between diffusion layer thickness (

δ

N

) and reaction layer thickness (

δ

R

). Also, we have demonstrated that the characteristic frequency of the reaction impedance loop is a function of

δ

R

−
2

.

As for ZEHD data, we found that, for slow kinetics, the plots do not overlap for different rotation speeds. Further, the upper limit of the negative phase is different for both, slow and fast kinetics, from the usual 180° value found for single charge transfer systems. The increment of the equilibrium constant, obtained via increasing the reaction rate constant of the electroactive species, caused the magnitude ZD to decrease and that of ZEHD to increase. Lastly, we found that changing ScA mainly affects the concentration gradient at the surface while the effect of ScB will depend on the kinetic regime.