bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Terrestrial stratigraphical division in the Quaternary and its correlation
Authors: Gibbard P.L. , Hughes P.D.
Published: October 2020

Initially, terrestrial evidence formed the foundation for the division of Quaternary time. However, since the 1970s there has been an abandonment of the terrestrial stage chronostratigraphy, which is based on locally dominated successions, in favour of the marine oxygen isotope stratigraphy which largely records global-scale changes in ice volume. However, it is now clear that glacial records around the world are asynchronous, even at the scale of the continental ice sheets which display marked contrasts in extent and timing in different glacial cycles. Consequently, the marine isotope record does not reflect global patterns of glaciation, or other terrestrial processes, on land. This has led to inappropriate correlation of terrestrial records with the marine isotopic record. The low resolution of the latter has led to a preferential shift towards high-resolution ice-core records for global correlation. However, even in the short term, most terrestrial records display spatial variation in response to global climate fluctuations, and changes recorded on land are often diachronous, asynchronous or both, leading to difficulties in global correlation. Thus, whilst the marine and the ice-core records are very useful in providing global frameworks through time, it must be recognized that there exist significant problems and challenges for terrestrial correlation.
Anisotropy in ultrasonic pulse velocity and dynamic elastic constants of laminated sandstone
Authors: Jamshidi Amin , Torabi-Kaveh Mehdi
Published: October 2020

Some rocks of the crust, such as sandstones, contain fabric elements including lamination. In general, these rocks show anisotropic behaviour. In this study, anisotropic behaviour of ultrasonic pulse velocities (
V
p
and
V
s
) and dynamic elastic constants (elastic modulus (
E
) and Poisson's ratio (
ν
)) were investigated for a laminated sandstone. For this purpose, some cylindrical specimens of the sandstone were prepared at angles (
β
) of 0°, 30°, 45°, 60° and 90° to lamination direction. The
V
p
,
V
s
,
E
and
ν
were measured for the specimens for the different
β
values. The study confirms that anisotropy is one of the most important factors affecting
V
­,
V
s
,
E
and
ν
. The obtained results reveal that
V
p
,
V
s
and
E
show a decreasing trend with an increase in
β
from 0° to 90°; whereas
ν
shows an increasing trend. According to the values of maximum and minimum
V
p
,
V
s
,
E
and
ν
for different β values, anisotropy ratios for sandstone samples are 1.16, 1.26, 1.52 and 1.15, respectively. Finally, it can be concluded that calculated
V
p
,
V
s
,
E
and
ν
corresponding to different β values are useful for the analysis and design of geotechnical projects in the absence of borehole explorations.
Using SPARK to Ensure System to Software Integrity
Authors: Naks T. , Aiello M. A. , Taft S. T.
Published: October 2020

This paper describes work in progress on a workflow that supports consistent property-preservation proofs from early stages of system requirements specifications down to software requirements and final implementation. This workflow, called System-to-Software Integrity (SSI), demonstrates that the implemented software satisfies constraints defined in system requirements.
Scenario-based Validation & Verification
Authors: Valls Joan J. , García-Gordillo Miguel , Sáez Sergio
Published: October 2020

Automated systems can be found on many current vehicles, either land, air or maritime. The reliability, safety and robustness of these systems is extremely important, hence validation approaches need to adapt to the ever-evolving necessities of the industry. The ENABLE-S3 architecture addresses the problem of extensive testing by introducing a set of tools and methodologies that can be used to build up a testing environment for different domains. In this manuscript, a special focus is given to the solution developed for the Reconfigurable Video Processor from the aerospace domain.
The Respiratory Foundations of Spoken Language
Authors: Fuchs Susanne , Rochet-Capellan Amélie
Published: October 2020

Why is breathing relevant in linguistics? In this review, we approach this question from different perspectives. The most popular view is that breathing adapts to speech because respiratory behavior has astonishing flexibility. We review research that shows that breathing pauses occur mostly at meaningful places, that breathing adapts to cognitive load during speech perception, and that breathing adapts to communicative needs in dialogue. However, speech may also adapt to breathing (e.g., the larynx can compensate for air loss, breathing can partially affect f0 declination). Enhanced breathing control may have played a role in vocalization and language evolution. These views are not mutually exclusive but, rather, reveal that speech production and breathing have an interwoven relationship that depends on communicative and physical constraints. We suggest that breathing should become an important topic for different linguistic areas and that future work should investigate the interaction between breathing and speech in different situational contexts.
Mechanistic Understanding of the Dissolution Behavior of the Precipitates in 12Cr Martensitic Steel during Potentiodynamic Polarization in Strong Alkaline Solutions
Authors: Wang Zihao , Takeda Yoichi , Zhong Xiangyu , Shoji Tetsuo , Xu Jian , Watanabe Yasuaki , Yamashita Mitsuo , Izumi Sakae
Published: October 2020

Cr was reported to result in a selective dissolution of the Laves phase in 12Cr steel in strong alkaline solutions. However, the current study concludes that Cr does not cause the dissolution of the Laves phase, but plausibly is responsible for the dissolution of Cr carbide at a higher potential. Further, the shoulder of the Laves phase peak resulted from the change of magnetite to hematite on the surface, and the shoulder of the carbide peak resulted from the transpassive behavior of Cr as alloying elements in the matrix.
Antigen Epitope Developed Based on Acinetobacter baumannii MacB Protein Can Provide Partial Immune Protection in Mice
Authors: Song Xiaojie , Zhao Guanghui , Ding Meiling
Published: October 2020

Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) is an important opportunistic pathogen widely present in medical environment. Given its complex drug resistance, A. baumannii poses a serious threat to the safety of critically ill patients. Given the limited alternative antibiotics, nonantibiotic‐based functional anti‐A. baumannii infection proteins must be developed. In this study, we firstly used a series of biological software to predict potential epitopes in the MacB protein sequence and verified them by antibody recognition and lymphocyte proliferation tests. We finally screened out B cell epitope 2, CD8+ T cell epitope 7, and CD4+ T cell epitope 11 and connected them to construct a recombinant antigen epitope (RAE). The determination of IgG in the serum of immunised mice and cytokines in the supernatant of lymphocytes showed that the constructed epitope induced an immune response mediated by Th‐1 cells. Finally, the challenge experiment of A. baumannii infection in mice confirmed that the epitope developed based on MacB, especially RAE, provided incomplete immune protection for mice.
Impact of Application of Multifunction Electrode (MFE) Pads on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Quality
Authors: Zalewski Radosław , Puślecki Mateusz , Szarpak Łukasz , Kłosiewicz Tomasz , Dąbrowski Marek , Perek Bartłomiej
Published: October 2020

Background. Early defibrillation and high-quality chest compressions are crucial in treatment of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) subjects. The aim of this study was to assess an impact of defibrillation methods on cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) quality. Methods. A randomized simulation cross-study was designed, in which 100 two-person paramedical teams participated. Two 10-minute scenarios of SCA in the mechanism of ventricular fibrillation were analysed. In the first one, teams had at their disposal defibrillator with hard paddles (group C), whereas in the second one, adhesive electrodes were used (group MFE). The CPR quality was evaluated on the basis of the chest compression parameters (rate, depth, recoil, compression fraction (CCF), and no-flow time), airways patency achievement, and successful emergency drug administration. Results. Substituting standard hard paddles with adhesive electrodes led to an increase in CCF (77% vs 73%;

p
<
0.05

), higher rate of complete chest recoil, and a decrease in no-flow time (6.0 ± 1.1 vs. 7.3 ± 1.1;

p
<
0.001

). The airway patency was ensured sooner in group MFE (271 ± 118 s vs. 322 ± 106 s in group C;

p
<
0.001

). All teams in scenario with adhesive electrodes were able to administer two doses of adrenaline, meanwhile only 74% of them in group C (

p
<
0.001

). Moreover, in 8% of group C scenarios, paramedics did not have enough time to administer amiodarone. Conclusion. Our simulation-based analysis revealed that use of adhesive electrodes during defibrillation instead of standard hard paddles may improve the quality of CPR performed by two-person emergency team.
Impact of Consumer Loss Aversion on Operations in the Context of Remanufacturing
Authors: Liao Bi-feng , Wang Bing-zhang
Published: October 2020

Loss aversion is an important psychological characteristic that has become well supported in finance and marketing. This paper introduces consumer loss aversion into the game model with two substitutable products in a remanufacturing system. The loss-averse consumers gain utility from comparing the price and value dimensions with the superior product. Our model highlights alternative products competition, product selections, and consumption psychology in a remanufacturing environment. The results show that consumer loss aversion has important implications on key decisions in the remanufacturing system. When the manufacturer faces loss-averse consumers, there is a tendency to charge higher prices for two types of products. At the same time, the sales prices increase with the degree of loss aversion. Further analysis reveals that if the manufacturer manipulates consumers with a high probability of purchase, the feature of loss aversion usually benefits him. Our theoretical analyses are proven by numerical computation and some useful conclusions are summarized in this paper.
Effect of Different Blood-Pressure-Lowering Regimens on the Blood Pressure Control among Hypertensive Patients Treated in Hospital Conditions
Authors: Paczkowska Anna , Hoffmann Karolina , Kus Krzysztof , Kopciuch Dorota , Zaprutko Tomasz , Ratajczak Piotr , Nowakowska Elżbieta , Bryl Wiesław , Katsuya Tomohiro
Published: October 2020

Background. Scientific references lack sufficient amount of data on analyses of the reasons for hospital admissions or assessment of efficacy of arterial hypertension treatment at hospitals. Objectives. The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of antihypertensive drug therapy on the blood pressure control among hospitalized hypertensive patients. Methodology. A cross-sectional retrospective study consisted of 204 patients aged 18–65 years admitted to the hospital due to hypertension between January 2018 and December 2018. The study was based on analysis of electronic records, obtained from the medical database of the selected healthcare facility. Results. As a result of the treatment applied at the hospital, 65.19% of the patients achieved the desired degree of blood pressure normalization (≤130/80 mmHg). Vast majority of the patients during their stay at the ward would receive three or more hypertensive drugs (63.73%). The most frequently prescribed antihypertensive drug combinations included bitherapies such as diuretics + ACEI and ACEI + β-blockers and tritherapy such as diuretics + β-blockers and calcium channel antagonists and diuretics + ACEI and ARBs. The highest blood-pressure lowering effects were observed among patients receiving combination therapy of a ACEI, a diuretic, and a ARBs. Tritherapy induced a significant mean reduction of inpatients`s SBP compared with bitherapy (

p
=
0.0001

). Conclusion. During their hospital stay, vast majority of patients (65.19%) achieved normal values of blood pressure, mostly owing to combined treatment with several hypertensive drugs. Efficacy of the most frequently used combinations of hypertensive drugs in normalizing arterial pressure varies.
An Enhanced Comprehensive Learning Particle Swarm Optimizer with the Elite-Based Dominance Scheme
Authors: Chen Chengcheng , Wang Xianchang , Yu Helong , Zhao Nannan , Wang Mingjing , Chen Huiling
Published: October 2020

In recent years, swarm-based stochastic optimizers have achieved remarkable results in tackling real-life problems in engineering and data science. When it comes to the particle swarm optimization (PSO), the comprehensive learning PSO (CLPSO) is a well-established evolutionary algorithm that introduces a comprehensive learning strategy (CLS), which effectively boosts the efficacy of the PSO. However, when the single modal function is processed, the convergence speed of the algorithm is too slow to converge quickly to the optimum during optimization. In this paper, the elite-based dominance scheme of another well-established method, grey wolf optimizer (GWO), is introduced into the CLPSO, and the grey wolf local enhanced comprehensive learning PSO algorithm (GCLPSO) is proposed. Thanks to the exploitative trends of the GWO, the algorithm improves the local search capacity of the CLPSO. The new variant is compared with 15 representative and advanced algorithms on IEEE CEC2017 benchmarks. Experimental outcomes have shown that the improved algorithm outperforms other comparison competitors when coping with four different kinds of functions. Moreover, the algorithm is favorably utilized in feature selection and three constrained engineering construction problems. Simulations have shown that the GCLPSO is capable of effectively dealing with constrained problems and solves the problems encountered in actual production.
Phenomenological Modelling of COVID-19 Epidemics in Sri Lanka, Italy, the United States, and Hebei Province of China
Authors: Attanayake A. M. C. H. , Perera S. S. N. , Jayasinghe S.
Published: October 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in increasing number of infections and deaths every day. Lack of specialized treatments for the disease demands preventive measures based on statistical/mathematical models. The analysis of epidemiological curve fitting, on number of daily infections across affected countries, provides useful insights on the characteristics of the epidemic. A variety of phenomenological models are available to capture the dynamics of disease spread and growth. The number of daily new infections and cumulative number of infections in COVID-19 over four selected countries, namely, Sri Lanka, Italy, the United States, and Hebei province of China, from the first day of appearance of cases to 2nd July 2020 were used in the study. Gompertz, logistic, Weibull, and exponential growth curves were fitted on the cumulative number of infections across countries. AIC, BIC, RMSE, and

R

2

were used to determine the best fitting curve for each country. Results revealed that the most appropriate growth curves for Sri Lanka, Italy, the United States, and China (Hebei) are the logistic, Gompertz, Weibull, and Gompertz curves, respectively. Country-wise, overall growth rate, final epidemic size, and short-term forecasts were evaluated using the selected model. Daily log incidences in each country were regressed before and after the identified peak time of the respective outbreak of epidemic. Hence, doubling time/halving time together with daily growth rates and predictions was estimated. Findings and relevant interpretations demonstrate that the outbreak seems to be extinct in Hebei, China, whereas further transmissions are possible in the United States. In Italy and Sri Lanka, current outbreaks transmit in a decreasing rate.
Synthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Using Leaf Extract of Lippia adoensis (Koseret) and Evaluation of Its Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Demissie Meron Girma , Sabir Fedlu Kedir , Edossa Gemechu Deressa , Gonfa Bedasa Abdisa
Published: October 2020

The synthesis of metal oxide nanoparticles with the use of medicinal plant extract is a promising alternative to the conventional chemical method. This work aimed to synthesize zinc oxide nanoparticles using a green approach from indigenous “Koseret” Lippia adoensis leaf extract which is an endemic medicinal plant and cultivated in home gardens of different regions of Ethiopia. The biosynthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles were characterized using thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Furthermore, this study also evaluated the antibacterial activity of the synthesized ZnO nanoparticles against clinical and standard strains of Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, Staphylococcus aureus, and Enterococcus faecalis by the disc diffusion method. According to the result of this study, ZnO nanoparticles synthesized using Lippia adoensis leaf extract showed promising result against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains with a maximum inhibition zone of 14 mm and 12 mm, respectively, using uncalcinated form of the synthesized ZnO nanoparticles.
Investigation on the Secondary Generation of Natural Gas Hydrates in Horizontal Wellbore Caused by Pressure Jump during the Depressurization Development of Hydrate Bearing Layers
Authors: Du Qingjun , Liu Yongge , Hou Jian , Shi Lina , Wang Wenbin , Zhou Kang
Published: October 2020

When the depressurization development of a hydrate-bearing layer is initiated, the temperature of the near-wellbore formation quickly decreases to near the equilibrium temperature due to the dissociation of natural gas hydrate Therefore, the secondary generation of natural gas hydrates in the wellbore easily occurs if pressure jumps to a high value due to the changes of production rates or shutdown of the well. Though hydrate generation in the process of high-pressure drilling and gas and water transportation has been widely investigated, the secondary generation of natural gas hydrates caused by pressure jump during the depressurization development process is not fully understood. In this study, the multiphase pipe flow of a horizontal well, the Vyniauskas–Bishnoi generation dynamics of natural gas hydrate, and a decomposition dynamics model developed by Kim and Bishnoi are combined to build a set of horizontal well gas–liquid–solid three-phase flow models, which consider the phase transition in the wellbore and distinguished the secondary hydrate generation area in the wellbore under different temperature and pressure conditions. The results show that when the toe-end pressure is 7 MPa and the environment temperature is 6.4°C, the secondary hydrate generation exists in the horizontal section of the horizontal well, and the maximum hydrate flow velocity in the wellbore is 0.044 m3/d. A high toe-end pressure, low environment temperature, and high gas output will result in a greater hydrate generation in the wellbore, and the wellbore pressure will have a remarkable influence on the amount generated and its range.
Freeze-Thaw Stability Analysis of the High-Ice Content Soil-Rock Cutting Slope: A Case Study in Oroqen Autonomous Banner, North China
Authors: Zhao Yuxia , Feng Jun , Liu Kangqi , Wu Qi , Wang Liqun , Liu Hongyan
Published: October 2020

National Highway 332 (referred to as line 332) is the most convenient way for the forest areas (Oroqen Autonomous Banner, etc.) in northern China. This area is located in the high-latitude permafrost regions of the Daxing’anling Mountains. The section of line 332 from Ali River to Kubuchun Forest Farm is 116 km long, and the permafrost section is 7.45 km. Part of the section, K105+700-K105+800, is a road cutting slope with high ice content, and it is also our research object. The slope to be studied is difficult to construct and has high landslide risk, so we arranged thirty-five temperature sensors, four moisture sensors, and eighteen landmarks on the slope to grasp the dynamic changes of the slope under freeze-thaw conditions. After collecting the continuous data of temperature, moisture, settlement, and deformation of the slope, we found that the slope was undergoing freeze-thaw cycles, and the shallow slippage of the slope reached 6.811 cm in 2019. Besides, the drilled core samples were tested in the laboratory and relevant parameters were obtained. Then, the slope stability was numerically simulated in ABAQUS numerical simulation software. After two hundred freeze-thaw cycles, the slope safety factor reached 0.997, indicating that the slope was in a state of extreme equilibrium, so the potential freeze-thaw disasters must be considered during road operation, and higher requirements for the permanent protection of slopes should also be put forward. The study can provide guidance for the design and construction of road cutting slope in the permafrost regions of the Daxing’anling Mountains.
Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio and Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio in Blood to Distinguish Lung Cancer Patients from Healthy Subjects
Authors: Zhu Xuming , Song Huizhu , Chen Yan , Han Feifei , Wang Qiong , Cui Yubao
Published: October 2020

Objective. Inflammation-driven markers play a crucial role in tumorigenesis and tumor progression. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in blood are systemic inflammatory response markers. Some reports have showed that NLR and PLR are related to a poor prognosis in patients with lung cancer. However, little studies have reported whether NLR and PLR can be diagnostic markers for lung cancer. The aim of the current study is to investigate the roles of NLR and PLR in diagnosing lung cancer. Methods. This study analyzed data from lung cancer patients and healthy individuals in Wuxi People’s Hospital Affiliated with Nanjing Medical University. The Mann–Whitney

U

test was performed to compare differences between the lung cancer group and the control group. Based on white blood cell (WBC) counts, both lung cancer patients and healthy individuals were divided into the low-level group, moderate-level group, and high-level group. The Kruskal-Wallis test was applied to compare differences of NLR and PLR among those groups with different WBC counts. Spearman correlation analysis was used to assess correlations. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were performed to determine diagnostic accuracy. Results. 210 patients diagnosed with lung cancer and 261 healthy subjects were enrolled in this study. Levels of NLR and PLR increased in the lung cancer group compared with the control group (

P
<
0.001

). For the lung cancer group, NLR levels could rise with the increasing of WBC levels (

P
<
0.001

) while PLR levels had no significant variation with the increasing of WBC levels (

P
=
0.206

). For the control group, NLR levels could rise with the increasing of WBC levels (

P
<
0.001

) while PLR levels would decline with the increasing of WBC levels (

P
<
0.001

). In the lung cancer group, both NLR and PLR had no significant correlations with aspartate transaminase, urea, and glucose. The area under the curve (AUC) with 95% confidence interval (95% CI) of NLR and PLR to distinguish lung cancer patients from healthy subjects was, respectively, 0.684 (0.634-0.735) and 0.623 (0.571-0.674). When NLR and PLR were combined, AUC (95% CI) increased to 0.691 (0.642-0.740). Conclusions. NLR and PLR alone have moderate ability to distinguish lung cancer patients from healthy subjects. Furthermore, combination forms of NLR and PLR can improve diagnostic ability.
Study on the Porosity of Saturated Fragmentized Coals during Creep Process and Constitutive Relation
Authors: Gong Peng , Ma Zhanguo , Chen Yongheng , Cheng Shixing , Li Kelong
Published: October 2020

Pore abundance and deformation characteristics of saturated fragmentized coals during creep process are of significant meaning to the study on ground sediment in the mined‐out area. The law of porosity variation of saturated fragmentized coals during creep process and its creep constitutive model were studied by using the self‐developed multiphase coupling creep test device. And, results have indicated that the porosity logarithm of fragmentized coal during creep process shows a linear negative correlation with the time ln(n−a) = −ct + lnb, and the porosity decrease is evidently divided into three phases. In addition, when the stress level is relatively low, the porosity decreases slowly; when the stress level rises up, the porosity decreases quickly; when the stress level remains stable finally, the porosity is smaller. Under the equal stress, as the grain size of fragmentized coals decreases, the porosity tends to decrease, and as the grain size of fragmentized coal tends to be stable, the porosity tends to increase; the creep constitutive equation of fragmentized coals with different grain sizes was established by using the Kelvin–Voigt model, and the correlation analysis shows that the Kelvin–Voigt creep model of fragmentized coals is reasonable.
Vitreous Hemorrhage as Presenting Sign of Retinal Arteriovenous Malformation
Authors: Accou Geraldine P. B. M. , Nerinckx Fanny , Leroy Bart P. , De Zaeytijd Julie
Published: October 2020

Objective. To describe a patient with vitreous hemorrhage and peripheral retinal ischemia, eventually diagnosed with an underlying retinal arteriovenous malformation. Methods. A 15-year-old girl presented with sudden-onset, painless visual loss in the right eye. She underwent a full ophthalmological work-up. Results. BCVA was less than 20/400 in the right eye and 20/20 in the left eye. Intraocular pressure and anterior segment examination were unremarkable. Fundoscopy was impossible due to an opaque vitreous hemorrhage in the right eye. The left eye was completely unremarkable. Examination during a 23-gauge pars plana vitrectomy showed dilated, tortuous arteriovenous vessels extending from the optic disc and silver wiring of the enlarged vessels. A clinical diagnosis of retinal arteriovenous malformation was made. During surgery, a peripheral retinal photocoagulation was executed to avoid rebleeding. Postoperatively, fluorescein angiography demonstrated additional macular microangiopathy and diffuse retinal nonperfusion in the periphery. The MRI brain revealed neither cerebral nor orbital vascular anomaly, confirming a group 2 retinal arteriovenous malformation. Conclusion. Retinal arteriovenous malformations are generally considered stable over time. However, complications due to retinal ischemia can occur. Hence, regular observation is warranted. In so doing, timely treatment can be offered to avoid complications.
HER2 Heterogeneity in Gastric Cancer: A Comparative Study, Using Two Commercial Antibodies
Authors: Satala Catalin Bogdan , Jung Ioan , Stefan-van Staden Raluca Ioana , Kovacs Zsolt , Molnar Calin , Bara Tivadar , Fulop Zsolt Zoltan , Gurzu Simona
Published: October 2020

Background. Although amplification of the gene encoding human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is used as an indicator for response to trastuzumab, the reported response rate is low, and few patients with gastric cancer (GC) benefit from this individualized therapy. The aim of this study was to examine the expression of c-erbB-2 oncoprotein (HER2), in GC samples, using two commercial immunohistochemical (IHC) antibodies, and to validate the results by checking HER2 gene amplification by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Methods. We assessed the IHC expression of HER2 using the polyclonal antibody from Dako and CB11 clone from Leica, in 93 consecutive cases of GC samples. In all of the cases, FISH analysis was also performed using the BOND-MAX platform. Results. No significant difference was observed between the two HER2 antibodies. Of the 93 cases, 22.58% demonstrated at least focal and 1+ HER2 positivity. Seven cases (7.53%) exhibited 3+ expression, and another 7 carcinomas (7.53%) were equivocal (2+). HER2 amplification was seen in 11 cases (11.83%), 10 of which were differentiated adenocarcinomas. In 5 of the cases, 2–5 sections were examined, which proved the extremely high intratumorally/intraglandular heterogeneity. FISH heterogeneity was higher in cases with only 2+ positivity on IHC assessment, compared with those showing at least one small focus of 3+ overexpression. HER2 amplification proved to be an independent negative prognostic factor. Conclusions. Due to the highly heterogeneous aspect of GC, at least 3-4 slides should be assessed by IHC, before considering a tumor to be HER2-negative. In cases with small 3+ foci representing less than 5% of tumor and in equivocal (2+) cases, FISH analysis remains the gold standard method.
Numerical Investigation of Natural Convection Viscoelastic Jeffrey’s Nanofluid Flow from a Vertical Permeable Flat Plate with Heat Generation, Thermal Radiation, and Chemical Reaction
Authors: Agbaje T. M. , Leach P. G. L.
Published: October 2020

The boundary layer flow of an incompressible viscoelastic Jeffrey’s nanofluid from a vertical permeable flat plate is investigated. We consider the effects of heat generation, thermal radiation, and chemical reaction on the fluid flow. The nonlinear transformed coupled differential equations that describe the transport processes are solved numerically using a multidomain bivariate spectral quasilinearization method (MD-BSQLM). This innovative method involves blending the quasilinearization idea with the bivariate Lagrange interpolation. The solutions of the resulting system of equations are then obtained sequentially on multiple intervals using the Chebyshev spectral collocation method. The method is shown to give accurate solutions for boundary layer-type equations. The influence of various physical parameters on velocity, temperature, and nanoparticle concentration fields, as well as on the skin friction and heat and mass transfer coefficients, is shown and discussed in detail. The range of the values of the governing parameters considered in this study is between

0
,
4

. For qualitative validation of the results and the numerical method used, calculations were carried out to graphically obtain the velocity, temperature, and nanoparticle concentration fields for selected physical parameter values. The results obtained were found to correlate with the results from published literature. For quantitative verification of our findings, the MD-BSQLM numerical solutions were again confirmed against published results reported in the literature, and the results were observed to be in perfect agreement. This study’s findings indicate that the Deborah number and suction parameter have related effects on the velocity profile, which is to suppress both the flow velocity and the momentum boundary layer thickness. Increasing the heat generation and thermal radiation parameters enhances both the temperature and thermal boundary layer depths. In contrast, an increase in the chemical reaction parameter causes a decrease in the fluid concentration.
An Extremely Rare Presentation of an Alpha-Fetoprotein-Producing Esophageal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Khalid Yaser , Dasu Neethi , Reja Debashis , Suga Herman , Itidiare Michael , Dasu Kirti , Walters Richard , Gordon Richard
Published: October 2020

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)-producing esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) is an extremely rare occurrence with very few cases reported in the literature. We report the case of a 76-year-old female who presented with progressive weakness, fatigue, and a decrease in appetite for weeks and who was found to have an AFP-producing EAC with an extraordinarily high AFP level of 46,135 ng/mL. CT angiography revealed abnormal thickening of the esophagus and multiple metastatic masses throughout the liver. Upper endoscopy revealed a large mass in the distal esophagus with extension into the stomach. Biopsy confirmed the EAC. Most cases are unsuccessfully treated with surgery and chemotherapy. Serial measurement of serum AFP may be useful for monitoring clinical status and treatment response.
Evaluation of Residual Kidney Function during Once-Weekly Incremental Hemodialysis
Authors: Bolasco Piergiorgio , Casula Laura , Contu Rita , Cadeddu Mariella , Murtas Stefano
Published: October 2020

Background: The initial once-weekly administration of incremental hemodialysis to patients with residual kidney function (RKF) has recently attracted considerable interest. Methods: The aim of our study was to assess the performance of a series of different methods in measuring serum urea nitrogen and serum Cr (sCr) RKF in patients on once-weekly hemodialysis (1WHD). Evaluations were carried out by means of 24-h predialysis urine collection (Kr-24H) or 6-day inter-dialysis collection (Kr-IDI) and estimation of glomerular filtration rate based on (KrSUN + KrsCr)/2 for the purpose of identifying a simple reference calculation to be used in assessing RKF in patients on 1WHD dialysis. Ninety-five urine samples were collected from 12 1WHD patients. A solute solver urea and Cr kinetic modeling program was used to calculate residual urea and Cr clearances. Mann-Whitney U test, Pearson’s correlation coefficient (R), and linear determination coefficient (R2) were used for statistical analysis. Results: 1WHD patients displayed a mean KrSUN-IDI of 4.5 ± 1.2 mL/min, while KrSUN-24H corresponded to 4.1 ± 0.9 mL/min, mean KrsCr-IDI to 9.1 ± 4.0 mL/min, and KrsCr 24H to 8.9 ± 4.2 mL/min, with a high regression between IDI and 24-h clearances (for IDI had R2 = 0.9149 and for 24H had R2 = 0.9595). A good correlation was also observed between KrSUN-24H and (KrSUN + KrsCR/2) (R2 = 0.7466, p < 0.01. Discussion: Urine collection over a 24-h predialysis period yielded similar results for both KrSUN and KrsCr compared to collection over a longer interdialytic interval (KrSUN + KrsCr)/2 could be applied to reliably assess RKF in patients on 1WHD. Conclusion: The parameters evaluated are suitable for use as a routine daily method indicating the commencement and continued use of the 1WHD Incremental Program.
Pallidal Deep Brain Stimulation in Patients with Prior Bilateral Pallidotomy and Selective Peripheral Denervation for Treatment of Dystonia
Authors: Saryyeva Assel , Capelle Hans Holger , Kinfe Thomas Mehari , Schrader Christoph , Krauss Joachim K.
Published: October 2020

Introduction: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the globus pallidus internus has become an accepted treatment for severe isolated idiopathic and inherited dystonia. Patients who had other forms of surgery earlier, such as radiofrequency lesioning or selective peripheral denervation, however, usually are not considered candidates for DBS. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term outcome of pallidal DBS in a rare subgroup of patients who had undergone both pallidotomy and selective peripheral denervation previously with a waning effect over the years. Methods: Pallidal DBS was performed according to a prospective study protocol in 2 patients with isolated idiopathic dystonia, and patients were followed for a period of at least 6 years. Results: Both patients benefitted from long-lasting amelioration of dystonia after pallidal DBS, which was comparable to that of patients who did not have previous surgeries. In a 62-year-old female with cervical dystonia both the Burke-Fahn-Marsden (BFM) and the Toronto Western Spasmodic Torticollis Rating Scale (TWSTRS) motor scores were improved at follow-up 8 years after surgery (50 and 39%). In a 32-year-old male with generalized dystonia, the BFM motor and disability scores showed marked improvement at 6.5 years of follow-up (82 and 66%). Conclusions: Pallidal DBS can yield marked and long-lasting improvement in patients who underwent both pallidotomy and selective peripheral denervation earlier. Therefore, such patients, in general, should not be excluded from DBS.
Resonator Networks, 1: An Efficient Solution for Factoring High-Dimensional, Distributed Representations of Data Structures
Authors: Frady E. Paxon , Kent Spencer J. , Olshausen Bruno A. , Sommer Friedrich T.
Published: October 2020

The ability to encode and manipulate data structures with distributed neural representations could qualitatively enhance the capabilities of traditional neural networks by supporting rule-based symbolic reasoning, a central property of cognition. Here we show how this may be accomplished within the framework of Vector Symbolic Architectures (VSAs) (Plate, 1991 ; Gayler, 1998 ; Kanerva, 1996 ), whereby data structures are encoded by combining high-dimensional vectors with operations that together form an algebra on the space of distributed representations. In particular, we propose an efficient solution to a hard combinatorial search problem that arises when decoding elements of a VSA data structure: the factorization of products of multiple codevectors. Our proposed algorithm, called a resonator network, is a new type of recurrent neural network that interleaves VSA multiplication operations and pattern completion. We show in two examples—parsing of a tree-like data structure and parsing of a visual scene—how the factorization problem arises and how the resonator network can solve it. More broadly, resonator networks open the possibility of applying VSAs to myriad artificial intelligence problems in real-world domains. The companion article in this issue (Kent, Frady, Sommer, & Olshausen, 2020 ) presents a rigorous analysis and evaluation of the performance of resonator networks, showing it outperforms alternative approaches.
Flexible Working Memory Through Selective Gating and Attentional Tagging
Authors: Kruijne Wouter , Bohte Sander M. , Roelfsema Pieter R. , Olivers Christian N. L.
Published: October 2020

Working memory is essential: it serves to guide intelligent behavior of humans and nonhuman primates when task-relevant stimuli are no longer present to the senses. Moreover, complex tasks often require that multiple working memory representations can be flexibly and independently maintained, prioritized, and updated according to changing task demands. Thus far, neural network models of working memory have been unable to offer an integrative account of how such control mechanisms can be acquired in a biologically plausible manner. Here, we present WorkMATe, a neural network architecture that models cognitive control over working memory content and learns the appropriate control operations needed to solve complex working memory tasks. Key components of the model include a gated memory circuit that is controlled by internal actions, encoding sensory information through untrained connections, and a neural circuit that matches sensory inputs to memory content. The network is trained by means of a biologically plausible reinforcement learning rule that relies on attentional feedback and reward prediction errors to guide synaptic updates. We demonstrate that the model successfully acquires policies to solve classical working memory tasks, such as delayed recognition and delayed pro-saccade/anti-saccade tasks. In addition, the model solves much more complex tasks, including the hierarchical 12-AX task or the ABAB ordered recognition task, both of which demand an agent to independently store and updated multiple items separately in memory. Furthermore, the control strategies that the model acquires for these tasks subsequently generalize to new task contexts with novel stimuli, thus bringing symbolic production rule qualities to a neural network architecture. As such, WorkMATe provides a new solution for the neural implementation of flexible memory control.
The Stummer’s Racerunner (Eremias stummeri Wettstein, 1940) does occur in Northwest China
Authors: Liu Jinlong , Dujsebayeva Tatjana N. , Chirikova Marina A. , Song Qi , Gong Xiong , Guo Xianguang
Published: October 2020

The status of Eremias stummeri in China has been a matter of controversy for over two decades, although it is well acknowledged that this species occurs in Northeast Kyrgyzstan and Southeast Kazakhstan. To date, whether its occurrence extends to the adjacent Chinese region (possibly in the Ily River Valley) has not been confirmed yet. To overcome constraints on field surveys imposed by the region’s remoteness and rugged terrain, we targeted areas of further field inventories by estimating the potential distribution of the species. Ecological niche modeling (ENM) enabled us to predict a continuous distribution area from Kazakhstan to the Chinese part of the Ily River Valley in Zhaosu county for the species’ occurrence. We conducted extensive field surveys in the predicted area. In 2017, for the first time, the occurrence of E. stummeri in China was confirmed with a single find in Zhaosu county. Further morphological and multilocus phylogenetic analyses congruently supported the taxonomic status of the recently discovered population as E. stummeri. In contrast to its distribution continuity between Kazakhstan and China, the ENM indicates distribution discontinuity between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. This geographic distribution pattern of E. stummeri is supported by morphological and molecular evidence, which highlights that individuals from China and Kazakhstan are more closely related to each other than to those from Kyrgyzstan. The mismatch between mitochondrial and nuclear phylogeographic pattern implies that historical mitochondrial introgression occurred from E. stummeri individuals from Kyrgyzstan to those from Kazakhstan.
Age, growth and survival rate in two populations of Darevskia derjugini (Nikolsky, 1898) from different altitudes (Squamata: Sauria: Lacertidae)
Authors: Altunışık Abdullah , Eksilmez Halit
Published: October 2020

We investigated age structure, age at sexual maturity, lifespan, growth and survival rate and adult life expectancy (as demographic life-history traits) as well as body size of two Darevskia derjugini (Artvin lizard) populations from different altitudes, using skeletochronology. Our findings indicated that age upon attaining sexual maturity was two or three years in the low-altitude population (Fındıklı) while it was three years in the high-altitude population (Murgul) for both sexes. The maximum longevity was seven years in the high-elevation site while it was six years in the low-elevation site. As reported for many lizards, we found a significant positive relationship between age and body size within each sex of Artvin lizard at both altitudes. High- and low-altitude populations did not differ in age structure, survival rates, adult life expectancy and body size. Rather than the effect of altitude, which is hard to compare without replication of other low and high altitude populations, the fact that these two populations have similar growth rates and the similarity of local conditions (food availability and predator density) may indicate similarity between the two regions.
Inclusive or Elusive Housing? Homeownership among Muslims in Norway
Authors: Qureshi Muhammad Azeem
Published: October 2020

Norway has a unique political focus on homeownership as a key to welfare and happiness. “Eierlinja” in Norwegian housing policy aims for a very high rate of homeownership leading to social integration of the communities enabling them as active citizens. Paradoxically, Muslim immigrants are 43%-93% less likely to own a house compared with non-immigrants, resulting in a potential increase in marginalisation of the groups who do not own their own home. To bridge this gap, we advocate a two-dimensional intervention. First, policy intervention that helps these communities to attain homeownership and, second, policy intervention that helps improve their social outcomes.
Fire, Prayer, and Purification
Authors: Yagi Tōru
Published: October 2020

Kyoto is home to a number of unique year-end festivals. This article focuses on traditions that occur during Shimotsuki and Shiwasu (the eleventh and twelfth months of the old Japanese lunisolar calendar), including the fire festivals of O-hitaki, Niinamesai, and Daikondaki; events that celebrate visiting deities, such as Daishikō; and purification rites of Shintō, Buddhist, and folk tradition, such as Kakure nenbutsu, Butsumyōe, and Sekizoro. Analysis and comparison of these rituals reveals a common motivation for their origin. As the power of the sun wanes with the winter solstice, the people of Kyoto in the past felt a need to reflect on the previous year, cleanse themselves of accumulated sin and misfortune, and pray that the coming year would bring peace, fortune, and a fertile harvest.
The Role of Immigrants in the ‘Take-Offs’ of Eastern European ‘Manchesters’. Comparative Case Studies of Three Cities: Lodz, Tampere and Ivanovo
Authors: Kowalski Kamil , Matera Rafał , Sokołowicz Mariusz E.
Published: October 2020

In this article, we identify the institutional offers for emigrants and evaluate the role of immigrants during the industrial revolution in the nineteenth-century history of three cities (once labelled ‘Manchesters’) from different parts of the Russian Empire. The dynamic growth of these cities was based on the textile industry but also depended largely on newcomers and highly mobile and entrepreneurial citizens. We show the key institutional factors that accelerated the immigrants’ mobility to these Eastern European ‘Manchesters’ and made their role in urban development crucial. We claim the textile industry and institutional conditions for newcomers were prerequisites, but the entrepreneurship of a large number of immigrants proved crucial in these cities.
5 More about the alphabet
Authors: Robertson Stephen
Published: October 2020

The author discusses the idea of coding in more detail, bringing the discussion up to the present (we may think of digital data as being written in a two-character alphabet). He also tells the story of the development of the QWERTY keyboard, and examines why it has become ubiquitous. Attention is then turned to languages other than English, and finally to the idea of a "character" as this has evolved.
7 Picture and sound
Authors: Robertson Stephen
Published: October 2020

Starting from mosaics, pointillism and weaving, the author goes on to discuss the sequence of development through photography and sound recording, to today's digitised images and sound. The discussion includes moving images, colour, halftone, facsimile transmission, and television.
Facial Fractures After Geriatric Ground-Level Falls Are a Marker of Functional Decline and Warrant Trauma Center Admission
Authors: St Hilaire Cameron , Johnson Arianne , Loseth Caitlin , Alipour Hamid , Faunce Nick , Kaminski Stephen , Sharma Rohit
Published: October 2020

Ground-level falls (GLFs) are a frequent source of injury in the geriatric population. Facial fractures (FFs) are one subsequent injury that can occur and may be an important marker of functional decline. We conducted a retrospective analysis over a 6-year period of patients 65 years and older sustaining one or more FFs due to a GLF (n = 28). Demographics, comorbidities, FF patterns, concomitant injuries, procedures, and outcomes were analyzed. The mean age was 80.0 ± 8.2 years, 64% were male, 12 patients (43%) were on oral anticoagulants prior to injury, and mean injury severity score was 8.3 ± 7.0. Five patients (18%) had LeFort fractures (1 with LeFort I, 4 with LeFort II), and 5 (18%) had isolated mandible fractures (2 were bilateral). Nearly half of all patients suffered neurological injury (concussion: 18%, intracranial hemorrhage: 29%). Average hospital length of stay (LOS) was 4.0 ± 2.9 days. Eight patients (29%) required intensive care unit (ICU) admission with an average ICU-LOS of 2.8 ± 1.2 days. Surgical management was required in 4 patients (14%). More than half of the patients returned home (54%), 25% were discharged to a skilled nursing facility, 4% to rehabilitation, 7% to hospice, and 7% expired. Nearly one-third of patients required discharge to a higher level of care facility than their location prior to injury. GLF-induced FFs are often associated with significant injuries and serve as an indicator of functional decline. These injuries warrant trauma center admission for comprehensive evaluation and management.