bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Haptoglobin is associated with increased early perihematoma edema progression in spontaneous intracranial hemorrhage
Authors: Halstead Michael R , Mould W Andrew , Sheth Kevin N , Rosand Jonathan , Thompson Richard , Levy Andrew , Hanley Daniel F , Goldstein Joshua N , Nyquist Paul
Published: April 2020

Introduction

Perihematomal edema in intracranial hemorrhage is influenced by free hemoglobin clearance and inflammation. Serum Haptoglobin (Hp) binds free hemoglobin, affecting heme clearance and free radical production. Of the three Hp phenotypes, Hp 1-1 has the greatest effect on free hemoglobin clearance.

Aim

To determine if individuals with Hp 1-1 phenotype have different rates of early perihematomal edema formation as compared to those with Hp 2-1 and Hp 2-2.

Methods

We determined Hp phenotype, intracranial hemorrhage volume, and rate of early change in perihematomal volume in participants from three prospectively collected intracranial hemorrhage cohorts. The association of Hp phenotypes 1-1, 2-1, 2-2, with early change in perihematomal volume, while controlling for key clinical characteristics was analyzed using a multivariate model.

Findings

One-hundred and sixty-six participants were included: 73 (44%) female, 41 ( 25%) African Americans, 34 (20%) diabetics, 133 (80%) with hypertension, and 75 (45%) active smokers. There were 15 subjects with Hp phenotype 1-1, 86 with 2-1, and 65 with 2-2. In fully adjusted analysis, Hp 1-1 had a significantly increased estimated mean rate of early change in perihematomal volume at 1.15 (95% confidence interval 0.58–1.71) as compared to all other Hp 2-1 or Hp 2-2 containing phenotypes (0.30, 95% confidence interval 0.06–0.54; 0.29 95% CI 0.02–0.56). Neither mortality nor discharge mRS differed between Hp phenotypes.

Conclusion

Haptoglobin phenotype is associated with early change in perihematomal volume. Hp 1-1 phenotype had significantly increased mean rate of early change in perihematomal volume within the first 96 h, suggesting that haptoglobin phenotype may be a key player in understanding the multiphasic progression of perihematomal volume in spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage. A larger prospective observational study is warranted.
Public Beliefs about Falsehoods in News
Authors: Koc-Michalska Karolina , Bimber Bruce , Gomez Daniel , Jenkins Matthew , Boulianne Shelley
Published: April 2020

The circulation of misinformation, lies, propaganda, and other kinds of falsehood has, to varying degrees, become a challenge to democratic publics. We are interested in the question of what publics believe about their own exposure to falsehoods in news, and about what contributes to similarities and differences in these beliefs across countries. We are also interested in the question of whether publics report attempting to verify news that is suspect to them. Here we report on a comparative election survey in the United States, the United Kingdom, and France. We find three key predictors of publics’ beliefs that they have been exposed to falsehoods: discussion of news, use of social media for political purposes, and exposure to counter-attitudinal information. The nexus between these three predictors and beliefs about falsehoods exists in all three countries, as we anticipate that it likely exists elsewhere. We do not find voters on the right to be different from those on the left in the United Kingdom and France, but do find a substantial difference in the United States, which is likely due to the 2016 Trump campaign. We conclude with concerns about the imbalance in beliefs about exposure to falsehoods in the United States and the apparent capacity of a single leader, in the right context, to shape public beliefs about what is to be believed.
A Prospective Investigation of the Decision to Open Up a Romantic Relationship
Authors: Murphy Annelise Parkes , Joel Samantha , Muise Amy
Published: April 2020

Consensual nonmonogamy (CNM) is an increasingly popular relationship option and a burgeoning topic within relationship science. However, retrospective designs have limited our ability to draw conclusions about the consequences of opening up a romantic relationship to other partners. In a longitudinal study, 233 individuals who were planning to engage in CNM, but who had not done so yet, were tracked over 2 months. We compared participants’ relational, sexual, and personal well-being before versus after opening up and between participants who did ( n = 155) versus did not ( n = 78) open up their relationships over the course of the study. Those who engaged in CNM experienced significant increases in sexual satisfaction, particularly if they did so with the explicit goal of addressing sexual incompatibilities within their relationships. We found no evidence that engaging in CNM impacted either life satisfaction or relationship quality with the primary partner.
Manual wheelchair propulsion cost across different components and configurations during straight and turning maneuvers
Authors: Sprigle Stephen , Huang Morris
Published: April 2020

Aim

Maneuvering manual wheelchairs is defined by changes in momentum. The amount of effort required to maneuver a wheelchair is dependent on many factors, some of which reflect the design and configuration of the wheelchair.

Objective

The objective of this study was to measure the work required to propel a manual wheelchair configured with three weight distributions, three drive wheels and four casters.

Methods

A novel wheelchair-propelling robot was used as the test platform to measure work while traversing two surfaces using three different maneuvers which were defined to highlight different kinetic energies and energy loss mechanisms.

Results

Overall, propulsion cost decreased with an increase in load on the drive wheels. Pneumatic drive wheels exhibited lower propulsion costs compared to a solid tire. Two casters, a 4″ dia × 1.5″ and a 5″ dia × 1″, exhibited better overall performance compared to 5″ dia × 1.5″ solid and 6″ dia × 1″ pneumatic casters.

Discussion

The results indicate that drive wheel load and types of drive wheels and casters impact propulsion cost and their influences differ across maneuvers and surfaces. The approach is well suited to assess equivalency in components and configurations. Assessment of performance equivalency would empower clinicians and users with important knowledge when selecting components.
Improving Patient Experience by Teaching Empathic Touch and Eye Gaze: A Randomized Controlled Trial of Medical Students
Authors: Lecat Paul , Dhawan Naveen , Hartung Paul J , Gerzina Holly , Larson Robert , Konen-Butler Cassandra
Published: April 2020

Background:

Empathy is critical for optimal patient experience with health-care providers. Verbal empathy is routinely taught to medical students, but nonverbal empathy, including touch, less so. Our objective was to determine whether instruction encouraging empathic touch and eye gaze at exit can impact behaviors and change patient-perceived empathy.

Materials:

A randomized, controlled, double-blinded trial of 34 first-year medical students was conducted during standardized patient (SP) interviews. A video either encouraging empathic touch and eye gaze at exit or demonstrating proper hand hygiene (control) was shown. Encounter videos were analyzed for touch and eye gaze at exit. The Jefferson Scale of Patient Perceptions of Physician Empathy was used to measure correlations. Intervention students were surveyed regarding patient touch.

Results:

Of this, 23.5% of intervention students touched the SP versus zero controls; 88.2% of intervention students demonstrated eye gaze at exit. Eye gaze at exit positively impacted patient-perceived empathy (correlation = 0.48, P > .001). Survey responses revealed specific barriers to touch.

Conclusion:

Medical students may increase perceived empathy using eye gaze at exit. Instruction on empathic touch and sustained eye gaze at exit at the medical school level may be useful in promoting empathic nonverbal communication. Medical educators should consider providing specific instructions on how to appropriately touch patients during history-taking. This is one of the few studies to explore touch with patients and the first ever to report the positive correlation of a health provider’s sustained eye gaze at exit with the patient’s perceived empathy. Further studies are needed to explore barriers to empathic touch.
Multiple reversible encephalitic attacks: a rare manifestation of neuronal intranuclear inclusion disease
Authors: Li Mingming , Li Kai , Li Xin , Tian Yun , Shen Lu , Wu Guode , Zhang Zaiqiang , Chen Weian
Published: April 2020

Background

Neuronal intranuclear inclusion disease (NIID) is a rare neurodegenerative condition characterized by the loss of neurons and the presence of eosinophilic nuclear inclusions in the central and peripheral nervous system, skin and visceral organs. In this paper, we present a case of NIID with recurrent encephalitic attacks that remained stable and nonprogressive for seven years; no such case has previously been reported.

Case presentation

A 63-year-old female was hospitalized due to light-headedness, vomiting, unstable gait and cognitive impairment. Seven years prior, she had experienced an episode of light-headedness, central facial paralysis, unstable gait, aphasia, nausea, vomiting and loss of consciousness. She regained consciousness within 12 h, and her other symptoms were completely resolved within one week. During the present hospitalization, a brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination detected high signal intensity on diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) of the bilateral frontal grey matter–white matter junction. We reviewed the patient’s previous MRI results and found that she had also had high signal intensity on DWI of the bilateral frontal grey matter–white matter junction seven years prior. In the intervening seven years, the high signal intensity in the frontal lobes had spread along the grey matter–white matter junction, but the deep white matter remained unaffected. Skin biopsy was performed, and intranuclear inclusions were found in adipocytes, fibroblasts and sweat gland cells. GGC repeat expansions in the NOTCH2NLC (Notch 2 N-terminal like C) gene confirmed the diagnosis of NIID. She received supportive treatment such as nutrition support therapy and vitamin B and C supplementation, as well as symptomatic treatment during hospitalization. The patient’s symptoms were completely relieved within one week.

Conclusion

This is a detailed report of a case of NIID with multiple reversible encephalitic attacks, diagnosed by clinical symptoms, intranuclear inclusions, characteristic DWI signals, and genetic tests.
Development of Leishmania (Mundinia) in guinea pigs
Authors: Becvar Tomas , Siriyasatien Padet , Bates Paul , Volf Petr , Sádlová Jovana
Published: April 2020

Background

Leishmaniasis is a human and animal disease caused by parasites of the genus Leishmania, which is now divided into four subgenera, Leishmania, Viannia, Sauroleishmania and Mundinia. Subgenus Mundinia, established in 2016, is geographically widely dispersed, its distribution covers all continents, except Antarctica. It consists of 5 species; L. enriettii and L. macropodum are parasites of wild mammals while L. martiniquensis, L. orientalis and an unnamed Leishmania sp. from Ghana are infectious to humans. There is very little information on natural reservoir hosts and vectors for any Mundinia species.

Methods

Experimental infections of guinea pigs with all five Mundinia species were performed. Animals were injected intradermally with 107 culture-derived promastigotes into both ear pinnae. The courses of infections were monitored weekly; xenodiagnoses were performed at weeks 4 and 8 post-infection using Lutzomyia migonei. The distribution of parasites in different tissues was determined post-mortem by conventional PCR.

Results

No significant differences in weight were observed between infected animals and the control group. Animals infected with L. enriettii developed temporary lesions at the site of inoculation and were infectious to Lu. migonei in xenodiagnoses. Animals infected with L. martiniquensis and L. orientalis developed temporary erythema and dry lesions at the site of inoculation, respectively, but were not infectious to sand flies. Guinea pigs infected by L. macropodum and Leishmania sp. from Ghana showed no signs of infection during experiments, were not infectious to sand flies and leishmanial DNA was not detected in their tissue samples at the end of experiments at week 12 post-inoculation.

Conclusions

According to our results, guinea pigs are not an appropriate model organism for studying Mundinia species other than L. enriettii. We suggest that for better understanding of L. (Mundinia) biology it is necessary to focus on other model organisms.
Detection of Toxoplasma gondii oocysts in fresh vegetables and berry fruits
Authors: Marques Cláudia S. , Sousa Susana , Castro António , da Costa José Manuel Correia
Published: April 2020

Background

Toxoplasma gondii is the third most important contributor to health burden caused by food-borne illness. Ingestion of tissue cysts from undercooked meat is an important source of horizontal transmission to humans. However, there is an increasing awareness of the consumption of fresh fruit and vegetables, as a possible source for oocyst transmission, since this stage of the parasite can persist and remain infective in soil and water for long time. Herein, we outline findings related with detection of T. gondii oocysts in vegetables and berry fruits, which are usually raw consumed. The procedure includes the estimation of the number of oocysts.

Methods

Food samples were collected from local producers and supermarket suppliers. Toxoplasma gondii oocysts were concentrated after washing the samples by applying high resolution water filtration and immunomagnetic separation (method 1623.1: EPA 816-R-12-001-Jan 2012), in order to (i) remove potential Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts and Giardia spp. cysts present in the samples; and (ii) select T. gondii oocysts. Toxoplasma gondii oocyst detection and an estimation of their numbers was performed by conventional PCR and real time qPCR, using specific primers for a 183-bp sequence of the T. gondii repetitive DNA region. All PCR-positive DNA samples were purified and sequenced. Restriction enzyme digestion with EcoRV endonuclease confirmed the presence of the T. gondii DNA fragment. In addition, the presence of the parasite was observed by fluorescent microscopy, taking advantage of the oocysts autofluorescence under UV light.

Results

Forty percent of the analysed samples (95% CI: 25.5–56.5%) presented the expected PCR and digested DNA fragments. These fragments were confirmed by sequencing. Microscopic autofluorescence supported the presence of T. gondii-like oocysts. The estimated mean (± SE) oocyst concentration was 23.5 ± 12.1 oocysts/g, with a range of 0.6–179.9 oocysts/g.

Conclusions

Our findings provide relevant evidence of contamination of fresh vegetables and berry fruits with T. gondii oocysts.
The ability of late pregnancy maternal tests to predict adverse pregnancy outcomes associated with placental dysfunction (specifically fetal growth restriction and pre-eclampsia): a protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis of prognostic accuracy studies
Authors: Griffin Melanie , Heazell Alexander E. P. , Chappell Lucy C. , Zhao Jian , Lawlor Deborah A.
Published: April 2020

Background

Pre-eclampsia and being born small for gestational age are associated with significant maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Placental dysfunction is a key pathological process underpinning these conditions; thus, markers of placental function have the potential to identify pregnancies ending in pre-eclampsia, fetal growth restriction, and the birth of a small for gestational age infant.

Primary objective

To assess the predictive ability of late pregnancy (after 24 weeks’ gestation) tests in isolation or in combination for adverse pregnancy outcomes associated with placental dysfunction, including pre-eclampsia, fetal growth restriction, delivery of a SGA infant (more specifically neonatal growth restriction), and stillbirth.

Methods

Studies assessing the ability of biochemical tests of placental function and/or ultrasound parameters in pregnant women beyond 24 weeks’ gestation to predict outcomes including pre-eclampsia, stillbirth, delivery of a SGA infant (including neonatal growth restriction), and/or fetal growth restriction will be identified by searching the following databases: EMBASE, MEDLINE, Cochrane CENTRAL, Web of Science, CINAHL, ISRCTN registry, UK Clinical Trials Gateway, and WHO International Clinical Trials Portal. Any study design in which the biomarker and ultrasound scan potential predictors have been assessed after 24 weeks’ gestation but before diagnosis of outcomes (pre-eclampsia, fetal growth restriction, SGA (including neonatal growth restriction), and stillbirth) will be eligible (this would include randomized control trials and nested prospective case-control and cohort studies), and there will be no restriction on the background risk of the population. All eligible studies will be assessed for risk of bias using the modified QUADAS-2 tool. Meta-analyses will be undertaken using the ROC models to estimate and compare test discrimination and reclassification indices to test calibration. Validation will be explored by comparing consistency across studies.

Discussion

This review will assess whether current published data reporting either a single or combination of tests in late pregnancy can accurately predict adverse pregnancy outcome(s) associated with placental dysfunction. Accurate prediction could allow targeted management and possible intervention for high-risk pregnancies, ultimately avoiding adverse outcomes associated with placental disease.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO CRD42018107049
Casein kinase 2 modulates the spindle assembly checkpoint to orchestrate porcine oocyte meiotic progression
Authors: ShiYang Xiayan , Miao Yilong , Cui Zhaokang , Lu Yajuan , Zhou Changyin , Zhang Yu , Xiong Bo
Published: April 2020

Background

CK2 (casein kinase 2) is a serine/threonine-selective protein kinase that has been involved in a variety of cellular processes such as DNA repair, cell cycle control and circadian rhythm regulation. However, its functional roles in oocyte meiosis have not been fully determined.

Results

We report that CK2 is essential for porcine oocyte meiotic maturation by regulating spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC). Immunostaining and immunoblotting analysis showed that CK2 was constantly expressed and located on the chromosomes during the entire oocyte meiotic maturation. Inhibition of CK2 activity by its selective inhibitor CX-4945 impaired the first polar body extrusion and arrested oocytes at M I stage, accompanied by the presence of BubR1 at kinetochores, indicative of activated SAC. In addition, we found that spindle/chromosome structure was disrupted in CK2-inhibited oocytes due to the weakened microtubule stability, which is a major cause resulting in the activation of SAC. Last, we found that the level DNA damage as assessed by γH2A.X staining was considerably elevated when CK2 was inhibited, suggesting that DNA damage might be another critical factor leading to the SAC activation and meiotic failure of oocytes.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate that CK2 promotes the porcine oocyte maturation by ensuring normal spindle assembly and DNA damage repair.
Arteriovenous malformation that caused prolapse of the colon and was treated surgically in an infant: a case report
Authors: Kido Miori , Nakamura Kiyokuni , Kuwahara Tsuyoshi , Yasui Yoshitomo , Okajima Hideaki , Kurose Nozomu , Kohno Miyuki
Published: April 2020

Background

Various terms have been used to describe vascular lesions in the intestine, including angiodysplasia, arteriovenous malformation, and telangiectasia. Such lesions are common in adults and are typified by angiodysplasia, a type of arteriovenous malformation. In contrast, these lesions are rarely seen in the pediatric population. Angiodysplasia may cause gastrointestinal bleeding, which is sometimes an indication for treatment. Considering the high rate of recurrence after surgical treatment, conservative treatments are mainly chosen. We herein report an extremely rare case of a prolapsed colon due to an arteriovenous malformation successfully treated by resection in a 1-year-old girl. We also highlight the differences between pediatric and adult cases.

Case presentation

A girl developed bloody stools at 7 months of age. She visited another hospital at 1 year of age because of continuing moderate hematochezia and recent onset of rectal prolapse. Colonoscopy showed a protruding lesion located 15 cm from the anal verge, suggesting a submucosal vascular abnormality. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging at our hospital revealed the localized lesion with dilated blood vessels in part of the sigmoid colon; no other lesions were present in the gastrointestinal tract. Laparoscopic-assisted sigmoidectomy was performed. A subserosal vascular lesion was visualized and resected using end-to-end anastomosis. Pathologic examination of the 2.2 × 2.7-cm segment revealed several abnormally enlarged and ectatic blood vessels in the submucosa extending into the subserosa. The lesion was diagnosed as an arteriovenous malformation. The patient had a good clinical course without recurrence at the 2-year follow-up.

Conclusions

An arteriovenous malformation in the sigmoid colon may rarely cause intussusception and prolapse of the colon. Complete resection is a radical and potentially effective treatment. Computed tomography and colonoscopy were useful for evaluation of the lesion in the present case.
Metal artifact reduction in 68Ga-PSMA-11 PET/MRI for prostate cancer patients with hip joint replacement using multiacquisition variable-resonance image combination
Authors: Kudura Ken , Oblasser Tobias , Ferraro Daniela A. , Mader Caecilia E. , Husmann Lars , Friedrich Kerstin , ter Voert Edwin E. G. W. , Burger Irene A.
Published: April 2020

Background

PET/MRI has a high potential in oncology imaging, especially for tumor indications where high soft tissue contrast is crucial such as genitourinary tumors. One of the challenges for PET/MRI acquisition is handling of metal implants. In addition to conventional methods, more innovative techniques have been developed to reduce artifacts caused by those implants such as the selective multiacquisition variable-image combination (MAVRIC-SL). The aim of this study is to perform a quantitative and qualitative assessment of metal artifact reduction in 68Ga-PSMA-11 PET/MRI for prostate cancer patients with hip joint replacement using a selective MAVRIC-SL sequence for the whole pelvis.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed data of 20 men with 37 metal hip implants diagnosed with PCA, staged or restaged by 68Ga-PSMA-11 PET/MRI from June 2016 to December 2017. Each signal cancellation per side or metal implant was analyzed on the reference sequence LAVA-FLEX, as well as T1-weighted fast spin echo (T1w-FSE) sequence and MAVRIC-SL. Two independent reviewers reported on a four-point scale whether abnormal pelvic 68Ga-PSMA-11 uptake could be assigned to an anatomical structure in the tested sequences.

Results

The smallest averaged signal void was observed on MAVRIC-SL sequences with a mean artifact size of 26.17 cm2 (range 12.63 to 42.93 cm2, p < 0.001). The best image quality regarding anatomical assignment of pathological PSMA uptakes in the pelvis by two independent readers was noted for MAVRIC-SL sequences, followed by T1w-FSE with excellent interreader agreement.

Conclusions

MAVRIC-SL sequence allows better image quality in the surrounding of hip implants by reducing MR signal voids and increasing so the accuracy of anatomical assignment of pathological 68Ga-PSMA-11 uptake in the pelvis over LAVA-FLEX and T1w-FSE sequences.
Comparison of oral and intravenous tranexamic acid in total hip arthroplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Qi Yiming , Li Yingjuan , Wang Chen , Chen Hui , Rui Yunfeng
Published: April 2020

Background

Total hip arthroplasty is associated with substantial blood loss which can lead to postoperative anemia. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare efficacy and safety of oral tranexamic acid (TXA) and intravenous TXA.

Methods

PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library were searched from inception until December 2019. A combined searching strategy of subject words and random words was adopted. Only clinical randomized controlled trials were included. The comparisons were made with regard to total blood loss, hemoglobin drop, transfusion rate, and postoperative thromboembolic complications including deep vein thrombolism (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). The meta-analysis was conducted by using the Review Manager 5.3, and bias evaluation was performed based on the Cochrane Handbook 5.1.0.

Results

In this meta-analysis, five randomized controlled trials were included. The results showed that there were no significant differences between the oral TXA group and intravenous TXA group concerning total blood loss [mean difference (MD) =3.01, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): − 43.90 to 49.92, p = 0.90], hemoglobin drop (MD = 0.05, 95% CI: − 0.10 to 0.20, p = 0.50) and transfusion rate of allogeneic blood [risk ratio (RR) =1.09, 95% CI: 0.46 to 2.62, p = 0.84]. No significant difference was found in the incidence of thromboembolic events (RR = 1.71, 95% CI: 0.71 to 4.16, p = 0.97).

Conclusions

Compared with intravenous TXA, oral TXA is equally able to reduce total blood loss, hemoglobin drop, and transfusion requirement for total hip arthroplasty. It is a lower-cost method that does not increase the incidence of thromboembolic events.
Religion and psychiatry: recent developments in research
Authors: Koenig Harold G. , Al-Zaben Faten , VanderWeele Tyler J.
Published: April 2020

The evidence base on the relationship between religion and mental health is growing rapidly, and we summarise the latest research on the topic. This includes studies on religious involvement and depression, bipolar disorder, suicide, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use disorders, personality disorder, chronic psychotic disorder, marital/family stability, social support and psychological well-being. We also review a relatively new topic in psychiatry, moral injury, which often accompanies PTSD and may interfere with its treatment. We describe a theoretical model that explains how religion might affect mental health and briefly discuss its applications in clinical practice, including a discussion of religiously integrated therapies for depression, anxiety and other emotional problems. Overall, studies indicate that religious involvement often serves as a powerful resource for patients, one that can be integrated into psychiatric care. At times, however, religion may impede or complicate treatment. This article will help clinicians determine, on the basis of the latest research, whether religion is an asset or a liability for a particular patient.
Cardiovascular examination
Authors: Dearnley-Lane Jon
Published: April 2020

The clinical examination is an important part of any patient consultation. After the primary survey and taking the patient history, a more in-depth examination is sometimes required to aid making a working diagnosis and help negate other differential diagnoses. The extent of this depends on the stability of the patient and may not be possible in time-critical circumstances. However, clinical examination is an increasing part of paramedic practice owing to the continued expansion of the scope of the paramedic role in both urgent and emergency care. Education on clinical examination concerning each of the main body systems is now an integral part of undergraduate paramedic curricula.

This clinical examination series provides a step-by-step overview for each of the main body systems. Continuing professional development (CPD) is an essential requirement for all clinicians to maintain and demonstrate that they are staying up to date and advancing in their roles.

This series gives an overview of each type of examination to support students, newly qualified paramedics and paramedics wishing to use these articles as a CPD development activity and an aide-memoire for clinical practice. This article, which explores the cardiovascular system, gives an overview of initial examination considerations, including first impressions.
Signal-to-noise ratio improvement of Brillouin optical time domain analysis system based on empirical mode decomposition and finite impulse response
Authors: Zhao Jieru , Wang Tao , Zhang Qian , Zhang Mingjiang , Zhang Jianzhong , Qiao Lijun , Gao Shaohua , Liu Jingyang , Li Jian
Published: April 2020

We propose a denoising algorithm based on empirical mode decomposition
(EMD) and finite impulse response (FIR) to improve the signal-to-noise
ratio (SNR) of Brillouin optical time domain analysis. Denoising
results indicate EMD-FIR can effectively reduce noise, and the maximum
SNR improvement is 11.69 dB, which is 4.98 dB and 4.26 dB larger than
the maximum SNR improvement of wavelet and Butterworth. The
temperature uncertainty along the heated section is reduced to 0.62°C
by EMD-FIR. The improvement of SNR opens opportunities to apply high
measurement accuracy to Brillouin optical time domain analysis and
other distributed sensing fields.
Fourier optics modeling of interference microscopes
Authors: de Groot Peter J. , Colonna de Lega Xavier
Published: April 2020

We propose a practical theoretical model of an interference microscope that includes the imaging properties of optical systems with partially coherent illumination. We show that the effects on measured topography of a spatially extended, monochromatic light source at low numerical apertures can be approximated in a simplified model that assumes spatially coherent light and a linear, locally shift-invariant transfer function that accounts for optical aberrations and the attenuation of diffracted plane wave amplitudes with increasing spatial frequencies. Simulation of instrument response using this model agrees with methods using numerical pupil-plane integration and with an experimental measurement of surface topography.
Formation of ceramic and crystal claddings for a Ti:sapphire crystalline fiber core
Authors: Yang Teng-I , Liu Hou-Ting , Wang Shih-Chang , Chuang Kai-Hsiang , Chou Tzu-Chi , Huang Sheng-Lung
Published: April 2020

We describe the fabrication and characterization of single-mode Ti:sapphire crystalline fibers, cladded by dip coating and high-temperature sintering at 1750
o
C. Solid-state single crystal growth was observed at the perimeter of the crystalline core, and the growth speed along (

1

1
¯

0

) is about 2.7 times faster than that of (001). The grown cladding was single-crystalline as evidenced by electron backscattered diffraction and scanning electron microscopy examinations. From optical transmission measurement at 1550 nm, the far-field distribution of the transmitted light matches well with that of the fundamental mode. With a core size of 30 µm, the refractive index difference between core and clad was measured to be 1.0 × 10−4. From fluorescence mapping on the fiber end face, a very limited amount of the Ti3+ ions in core were diffused into the grown crystalline cladding during the solid-state growth.
Interpretasi Struktur Geologi Di Perairan Aru Selatan, Maluku Berdasarkan Data Seismik 2D Multi Channel
Authors: Ustiawan Arief Budiman , Nainggolan Tumpal Bernhard , Setyawan Reddy
Published: April 2020

PProduksi minyak di Indonesia telah dimulai sejak tahun 1885 ketika sumur minyak pertama di Indonesia berhasil berproduksi pada Kabupaten Langkat, Sumatera Utara. Faktor pemulihan yang rendah mengakibatkan produksi minyak di Indonesia telah menurun karena kurangnya eksplorasi dan investasi pada sektor minyak bumi. Salah satu metode geofisika yang digunakan dalam eksplorasi hidrokarbon yang pada umumnya memiliki kedalaman yang dalam yaitu adalah metode seismik. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk melakukan interpretasi geologi terhadap penampang seismik sehingga menampilkan gambaran bawah permukaan. Pusat Penelitian dan Pengembangan Geologi Kelautan (PPPGL) merupakan unit penelitian dan pengembangan dibawah Kementerian Energi dan Sumber Daya Mineral yang melakukan tahapan pengambilan data seismik refleksi terutama di daerah laut. Tulisan ini menggunakan data seismik refeksi pada Line-14, Laut Aru Selatan, Maluku. Data metode seismik multi channel sebanyak 1 lintasan tersebut kemudian diproses menggunakan perangkat lunak pengolahan data seismik. Proses interpretasi menggunakan perangkat lunak interpretasi geologi dengan melakukan picking horizon dari batas formasi dan struktur geologi. Berdasarkan tahapan interpretasi, tatanan stratigrafi daerah penelitian memiliki kesebandingan atas Formasi Kemum, Formasi Kais, Formasi Klasafet, dan Formasi Klasaman bagian bawah. Berdasarkan interpretasi struktur geologi didapatkan kumpulan sesar normal yang dapat diindikasikan sebagai migration pathway dari hidrokarbon.
Biochemical study of attached macroalgae from the Madeira Archipelago and beach-cast macroalgae from the Canary Islands: multivariate analysis to determine bioresource potential
Authors: Nunes Nuno , Valente Sofia , Ferraz Sónia , Barreto Maria Carmo , Pinheiro de Carvalho Miguel A.A.
Published: April 2020

Fifteen attached macroalgae from the Madeira Archipelago, comprising three green, three red and nine brown algal species, as well as two beach-cast macroalgal samples, collected along the north shore of Gran Canaria, were assessed for their biochemical properties. The analysis included the determination of total minerals, total carbohydrates, protein, lipids, chlorophylla, total carotenoids, total phenolic content, fucoxanthin and phycobilins (allophycocyanin, phycocyanin and phycoerythrin). The results showed a high variability of biochemical composition, allowing for the targetting of specific bioresources for particular purposes, including functional foods. This work provides the foundation for a biorefinery strategy implementation plan, for which specific macroalgae may be targeted for valuable and beneficial compounds.
Transparency of digital native and embedded advertising: Opportunities and challenges for regulation and education
Authors: Reijmersdal Eva A. van , Rozendaal Esther
Published: April 2020

This article elaborates on one of the main characteristics of digital native and embedded advertising: its lack of transparency. Challenges and opportunities for disclosing native advertising practices as well as how educational measures concerning this type of advertising should look are discussed. In addition, a future research agenda is presented.
A linguistically-informed way of introducing Japanese verbs to second language learners
Authors: Hayashishita J.-R. , Tanaka Daiki , Ueyama Ayumi
Published: April 2020

This paper describes how the Japanese speakers’ knowledge is organized in regards to verbs, and proposes a linguistically-informed way of introducing it to second language learners. It is maintained by a number of researchers that each verb is stored with the information of its argument structure in the speaker’s mental lexicon. That is, a given verb is stored with the information of how many arguments it takes and what types of arguments they are. In this paper, capitalizing on this assumption, we will maintain that the knowledge of the native speakers of Japanese is organized in such a way that if a verb gives rise ton-number of different meanings, there aren-number of lexical entries, and each such entry is independently stored with the information concerning the meaning of the verb, the verb arguments and their accompanying particles. After the description of the organization of Japanese speakers’ knowledge in regards to verbs, as an effective way of introducing this to Japanese language learners, the paper proposes the format of an innovative approach to Japanese verbs reference book. This proposed format capitalizes onfull sentence definitionsin the sense of the CollinsCobuild Dictionary.
The R219K polymorphism of the ATP binding cassette subfamily A member 1 gene and susceptibility to ischemic stroke in Chinese population
Authors: Li Jianmin , Wen Ming , Zhang Zhiping , Qiu Zhihua , Sun Yiming
Published: April 2020

Stroke is the major cause of death and disability worldwide. ABCA1 R219K has been suggested as a risk factor for ischemic stroke, but the results remain inconclusive in the Chinese population. This study aimed to assess the association between ABCA1 R219K and ischemic stroke using meta-analysis. A systematic literature search was conducted to select eligible studies and the pooled odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to evaluate the strength of association. Fourteen studies containing 2865 cases and 3227 controls were included in the meta-analysis and the results suggested that there is a strong association between ABCA1 R219K and the ischemic stroke risks (K vs. R: OR = 0.837, 95% CI: 0.735- 0.954, p=0.008; KK vs. RR: OR = 0.689, 95% CI: 0.520-0.912, p=0.009; KK+RK vs. RR: OR = 0.782, 95% CI: 0.691-0.885, p<0.001). Subgroup analysis revealed that significant association was found for the 4 genetic models (p<0.05) in the Southern population, while in the northern population significant association was only found under the dominant model (KK+RK vs. RR: OR = 0.744, 95% CI: 0.583- 0.949, p<0.017). This meta-analysis suggested that ABCA1 R219K polymorphism might be a protective factor against developing IS, indicating this SNP may contribute to the pathogenesis of ischemic stroke and might be potentially used as a biomarker to predict the susceptibility to ischemic stroke.
X-ray imaging and computed tomography for engineering applications
Authors: Zabler Simon , Maisl Michael , Hornberger Peter , Hiller Jochen , Fella Christian , Hanke Randolf
Published: April 2020

After an incremental development which took place over four decades, X-ray imaging has become an important tool for non-destructive testing and evaluation. Computed Tomography (CT) in particular beholds the power of determining the location of flaws and inclusions (e. g. in castings and composites) in three-dimensional object coordinates. Therefore, and thanks to a speed-up of the measurement, CT is now routinely considered for in-line inspection of electronics, castings and composites. When precision and not speed is important, Micro-CT (μCT) can be employed for Dimensional Measurements (DM, e. g. quality assurance and shape verification), as well as for in situ testing, and for characterizing micro-structures in metals and composites. Using appropriate image processing and analysis μCT can determine the local fibre orientation in composites, the granular morphology of battery cathodes or the inter-connectivity of certain phases in casting alloys.

Today, the large variety of X-ray instruments and methods poses an application problem which requires experience and a lot of knowledge for deciding which technique applies best to the task at hand. Application-specific guidelines exist for X-ray radiography testing (RT) only, whereas standardization has been applied to CT, unfortunately leaving out high resolution sub μ CT, and nano-CT. For the latter exist an equally high number of NDT applications, however these instruments still necessitate a profound expertise. The task is to identify key industrial applications and push CT from system standardization to application specific automation.
Work Statistics and Energy Transitions in Driven Quantum Systems
Authors: Engbers Michael , Heerwagen Mattes , Rosmej Sebastian , Engel Andreas
Published: April 2020

Thermodynamic quantities of small systems fluctuate and have to be characterised by their appropriate probability distributions. Within the two-point energy measurement prescription, the distribution of work in a quantum system can be derived from the transition probability from initial to final energy. We consider a simple yet representative model system starting in thermodynamic equilibrium and driven by an external force, and compare two different numerical techniques to determine this transition probability with respect to accuracy and numerical effort. In addition, we perform a semi-classical analysis of the process using the WKB approximation. The results agree well with the numerically exact values if Airy-tails modelling the tunnelling into classically forbidden regions of phase space are properly taken into account.
Adult height prediction by bone age determination in children with isolated growth hormone deficiency
Authors: Reinehr Thomas , Carlsson Martin , Chrysis Dionisios , Camacho-Hübner Cecilia
Published: April 2020

Background

The precision of adult height prediction by bone age determination in children with idiopathic growth hormone deficiency (IGHD) is unknown.

Methods

The near adult height (NAH) of patients with IGHD in the KIGS database was compared retrospectively to adult height prediction calculated by the Bayley–Pinneau (BP) prediction based on bone age by Greulich–Pyle (GP) in 315 children and based on the Tanner-Whitehouse 2 (TW2) method in 121 children. Multiple linear regression analyses adjusted for age at GH start, age at puberty, mean dose and years of of GH treatment, and maximum GH peak in stimulation test were calculated.

Results

The mean underestimation of adult height based on the BP method was at baseline 4.1 ± 0.7 cm in girls and 6.1 ± 0.6 cm in boys, at 1 year of GH treatment 2.5 ± 0.5 cm in girls and 0.9 ± 0.4 cm in boys, while at last bone age determination adult height was overestimated in mean by 0.4 ± 0.6 cm in girls and 3.8 ± 0.5 cm in boys. The mean underestimation of adult height based on the TW2 method was at baseline 5.3 ± 2.0 cm in girls and 7.9 ± 0.8 cm in boys, at 1 year of GH treatment adult height was overestimated in girls 0.1 ± 0.6 cm in girls and underestimated 4.1 ± 0.4 cm in boys, while at last bone age determination adult height was overestimated in mean by 3.1 ± 1.5 cm in girls and 3.6 ± 0.8 cm in boys.

Conclusions

Height prediction by BP and TW2 at onset of GH treatment underestimates adult height in prepubertal IGHD children, while in mean 6 years after onset of GH treatment these prediction methods overestimated adult height.
Loss of N-Glycanase 1 Alters Transcriptional and Translational Regulation in K562 Cell Lines
Authors: Mueller William F , Jakob Petra , Sun Han , Clauder-Münster Sandra , Ghidelli-Disse Sonja , Ordonez Diana , Boesche Markus , Bantscheff Marcus , Collier Paul , Haase Bettina , Benes Vladimir , Paulsen Malte , Sehr Peter , Lewis Joe , Drewes Gerard , Steinmetz Lars M
Published: April 2020

N-Glycanase 1 (NGLY1) deficiency is an ultra-rare, complex and devastating neuromuscular disease. Patients display multi-organ symptoms including developmental delays, movement disorders, seizures, constipation and lack of tear production. NGLY1 is a deglycosylating protein involved in the degradation of misfolded proteins retrotranslocated from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). NGLY1-deficient cells have been reported to exhibit decreased deglycosylation activity and an increased sensitivity to proteasome inhibitors. We show that the loss of NGLY1 causes substantial changes in the RNA and protein landscape of K562 cells and results in downregulation of proteasomal subunits, consistent with its processing of the transcription factor NFE2L1. We employed the CMap database to predict compounds that can modulate NGLY1 activity. Utilizing our robust K562 screening system, we demonstrate that the compound NVP-BEZ235 (Dactosilib) promotes degradation of NGLY1-dependent substrates, concurrent with increased autophagic flux, suggesting that stimulating autophagy may assist in clearing aberrant substrates during NGLY1 deficiency.
A Genome-Wide Screen for Genes Affecting Spontaneous Direct-Repeat Recombination inSaccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Novarina Daniele , Desai Ridhdhi , Vaisica Jessica A , Ou Jiongwen , Bellaoui Mohammed , Brown Grant W , Chang Michael
Published: April 2020

Homologous recombination is an important mechanism for genome integrity maintenance, and several homologous recombination genes are mutated in various cancers and cancer-prone syndromes. However, since in some cases homologous recombination can lead to mutagenic outcomes, this pathway must be tightly regulated, and mitotic hyper-recombination is a hallmark of genomic instability. We performed two screens in Saccharomyces cerevisiae for genes that, when deleted, cause hyper-recombination between direct repeats. One was performed with the classical patch and replica-plating method. The other was performed with a high-throughput replica-pinning technique that was designed to detect low-frequency events. This approach allowed us to validate the high-throughput replica-pinning methodology independently of the replicative aging context in which it was developed. Furthermore, by combining the two approaches, we were able to identify and validate 35 genes whose deletion causes elevated spontaneous direct-repeat recombination. Among these are mismatch repair genes, the Sgs1-Top3-Rmi1 complex, the RNase H2 complex, genes involved in the oxidative stress response, and a number of other DNA replication, repair and recombination genes. Since several of our hits are evolutionarily conserved, and repeated elements constitute a significant fraction of mammalian genomes, our work might be relevant for understanding genome integrity maintenance in humans.
Influence of “Thireomagnile” and “Thyrioton” preparations on the antioxidant status of pregnant cows with symptoms of endotoxicosis
Authors: Grymak Y. , Skoromna O. , Stadnytska O. , Sobolev O. , Gutyj B. , Shalovylo S. , Hachak Y. , Grabovska O. , Bushueva I. , Denys G. , Hudyma V. , Pakholkiv N. , Jarochovich I. , Nahirniak T. , Pavliv O. , Farionik T. , Bratyuk V.
Published: April 2020

The purpose of this search was to investigate the influence of “Thireomagnile” and “Thyrioton” on the antioxidant status of cows in the development of endotoxicosis. The experimental part of the work was performed at the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology of Stepan Gzhytskyj Lviv National University of Veterinary Medicine and Biotechnologies, in the laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology of the State Scientific Research Institute of Veterinary Preparation and Feed Additives (Lviv) and in the Ltd. “Barkom”, village Yampil of Pustomyty district, Lviv region. To solve the tasks of the research, three experimental groups of 10 pregnant cows of the Ukrainian Black-Spotted Dairy breed were formed in each: control and two experimental. Cows of the control group (K) had characteristic clinical signs of endotoxicosis. Animals of the first experimental group (E1) were given 10 mL per animal of “Thyroid magnet” at the eighth and ninth months of gestation. The animals of the second experimental group (E2) were given Thyrioton at a dose of 10 mL per animal in the eighth and ninth months of gestation. As a result of the conducted researches it is found out that in pregnant cows with clinical manifestation of endotoxicosis the inhibition of the activity of the antioxidant protection system and intensification of processes of lipid peroxidation occurs. The use of “Thireomagnile” and “Thyrioton” in cows by the development of endotoxicosis contributed to the increased activity of the antioxidant system, which is indicated by an increase in the activity of glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase. The use of of “Thireomagnile” and “Thyrioton” to cows in the development of endotoxicosis contributed to the suppression of lipid peroxidation processes, which is indicated by the low level of primary and final products of lipid peroxidation, namely: lipid hydroperoxides and TBA-active products. Better normalizing action on the equilibrium on the activity of the antioxidant system and the intensity of lipid peroxidation was shown by the introduction of “Thyroid magnet” at a dose of 10 cm3 per animal.