bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent advances in the Van der Waals epitaxy growth of III‐V semiconductor nanowires on graphene
Authors: Anyebe Ezekiel Anyebe , Kesaria Manoj
Published: December 2020

The recent discovery of the one‐atom‐thick, two‐dimensional graphene layers with exciting properties including superb optical transparency and high mechanical robustness has stimulated extensive research interest for use as an alternative nanowires (NWs) growth platform for applications in next generation, flexible, stretchable, and printable electronic and optoelectronic devices. When combined with the exceptional capabilities of semiconductor NWs including improved light absorption, reduced optical reflectance, enhanced carrier collection, and fast response, the performance of optoelectronic devices could be significantly improved in novel high‐performance, flexible nanodevices. However, the growth of semiconductor NWs on 2D graphene layers is highly challenging owing to the absence of surface dangling bonds on graphene. Intriguingly, the last decade has witnessed a flurry of research activity on the growth of III‐V semiconductor NWs on graphene. In this review, we highlight the significant advancements that have been made in circumventing this challenge to realize the growth of III‐V semiconductor NWs on graphene. We then summarize the recent progress made in the development of graphene‐based NWs devices including photodetectors and solar cells. Finally, a brief conclusion and outlook of the way forward in the growth of semiconductor NWs on graphene is presented.
The development and initial evaluation of referral flowchart for suspected neuroblastoma for pediatricians in nononcology clinics in China
Authors: Ma Xiaoli , Duan Chao , Cai Siyu , Wang Xindi , Jiang Chiyi , Yue Zhixia , Li Kun , Jin Mei , Zhang Dawei , Wang Xiaoman , Peng Xiaoxia
Published: December 2020

Background

The delayed diagnosis of neuroblastoma (NB) is common in China, which results in the prognosis of NB in China lagging behind that in developed countries.

Methods

A referral flowchart for suspected NB was implemented in nononcology clinics at Beijing Children's Hospital (BCH). Patients with symptoms of suspected NB were referred from nononcology clinics in BCH to oncology clinics and confirmed NB cases were regarded as referral group. The control group comprised patients initially diagnosed with NB who came directly to oncology clinics in BCH from other regions nationwide. The age at NB diagnosis was compared as primary outcome, and the 5‐year overall survival (OS) and event‐free survival (EFS) were compared via the Kaplan‐Meier method and log‐rank tests.

Results

In total, 3337 children with suspected NB were screened consecutively from 687 070 pediatric patients. Through examination of urine vanillylmandelic acid and homovanillic acid, or B‐ultrasound, 102 of 3337 patients were referred to oncologists for comprehensive evaluations. Eventually, 29 referred patients were diagnosed as NB and the hospital‐based diagnosis rate of NB was 4.2 per 100 000 visits. The median age at diagnosis in the referral group was 21.0 months, which was 9 months earlier than that of the control group (30.0 months, P = .026). The 5‐year OS rate was 72.4% in the referral group, which was higher than that of the control group (66.7%) but without statistical significance (P = .664).

Conclusion

Delayed NB detection could be avoided by training pediatricians in nononcology clinics to detect suspected NB and refer these patients to oncologists.
Survival from childhood cancer in Kampala, Uganda
Authors: Liu Biying , Youlden Danny R. , Wabinga Henry , Nambooze Sarah , Amulen Phoebe Mary , Aitken Joanne F. , Parkin Donald Maxwell
Published: December 2020

Population‐based data on survival from childhood cancers in sub‐Saharan Africa are sparse. We report data on 221 children with cancer diagnosed between 2010 and 2014 in the population of Kampala, Uganda. Survival for eight of nine children with cancer assessed was below the WHO's global target of 60% (the exception was Hodgkin lymphoma: 86% at 3 years). There was significant (P < .05) decline in survival between 1 and 3 years for Wilms tumour and Kaposi sarcoma (30% and 34% at 3 years, respectively). Survival from Burkitt lymphoma, Wilms tumour and Kaposi sarcoma has not changed compared with results from the 2005‐2009 study.
Use of pegylated interferon in young patients with polycythemia vera and essential thrombocythemia
Authors: Kucine Nicole , Bergmann Shayla , Krichevsky Spencer , Jones Devin , Rytting Michael , Jain Juhi , Bennett Carolyn M. , Resar Linda M.S. , Mascarenhas John , Verstovsek Srdan , Hoffman Ronald
Published: December 2020

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) are rare disorders in young patients, and because of this, standardized treatment recommendations are not available. Pediatric patients are more frequently treated with hydroxyurea than interferon, yet there are no data suggesting this is the best practice. Current treatment guidelines for adults suggest using interferon as upfront therapy in young patients. We reviewed the cases of 13 young patients with polycythemia vera or essential thrombocythemia, who were treated with interferon. Extreme thrombocytosis was well controlled and the medication was tolerated by many. Our work shows the need for prospective studies evaluating interferon in our youngest patients with MPN.
Sensing of toxic Lewisite (L1, L2, and L3) molecules by graphdiyne nanoflake using density functional theory calculations and quantum theory of atoms in molecule analysis
Authors: Khan Sidra , Sajid Hasnain , Ayub Khurshid , Mahmood Tariq
Published: December 2020

Promising sensor applications of graphdiyne for various gases and toxic molecules have extensively been studied; however, similar studies for the detection of chemical warfare agents (CWA) are not reported. Here, we report the adsorption of Lewisites (L1, L2, and L3), on graphdiyne nanoflake (GDY) using density functional theory (DFT) ωB97XD/6‐31+G (d,p) method. Our results show that Lewisite molecules are preferably physiosorbed at the triangular portion of GDY nanoflake. In particular, the binding of L3(3‐chlorovinyl arsine) on GDY nanoflake is thermodynamically favorable than L1(1‐chlorovinylarsonous dichloride) and L2(2‐chlorovinylarsonous chloride). Symmetry adopted perturbation theory (SAPT0) analysis reveals that the least contribution of repulsive exchange component is present in case of L2@GDY complex. Further, the smallest HOMO‐LUMO energy gap, appreciable charge transfer (NBO), and largest red shift in ultraviolet‐visible (UV‐Vis) spectrum are also in accord with the higher %sensitivity of graphdiyne toward L2. Quantum theory of atom in molecule (QTAIM) analysis is performed to get insight into the noncovalent interactions. Therefore, it is predicted that the sensitivity of GDY nanoflake is potentially high for Lewisite especially for L2.
Short and long interpregnancy interval and the risk for pediatric obstructive sleep apnea in the offspring
Authors: Rapaport Pasternak Hila , Sheiner Eyal , Goldbart Aviv , Wainstock Tamar
Published: December 2020

Introduction

Interpregnancy interval (IPI) is defined as the period between a live birth and the conception of a subsequent fetus. Both short (IPI < 6 months) and long IPI (IPI > 60 months) have been shown to increase the risk for adverse perinatal outcomes, some of which, are known risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) in the offspring.

Aims

To study the association between IPI and risk for offspring OSAS, during a follow‐up period of up to 18 years.

Study design

Population‐based cohort.

Subjects

In this population‐based cohort analysis, all singleton live births, born to a mother with at least one previous birth occurring between 1991 and 2014, were included. Congenital malformations were excluded.

Materials and Methods

Hospitalizations of the offspring due to OSAS diagnosis up to 18 years of age, were evaluated according to IPI length. Intermediate IPI (6–60 months) was considered as the reference. A Kaplan‐Meier survival curve and a Cox hazards regression model were used to compare the incidence of OSAS between the groups, and to adjust for confounding variables.

Results

The study population included 144,397 deliveries, of which 13.1% (n = 18,947) were followed by short IPI, 7.9% (n = 11,438) and 79.0% (n = 114,012) were followed by long and intermediate IPI, respectively. OSAS hospitalization rates were significantly higher among the long IPI group compared to intermediate and short IPIs (0.9%; 0.7% and 0.6%, respectively, p = .001). The association between long IPI and offspring pediatric OSAS remained significant after controlling for preterm delivery, maternal diabetes, and smoking, and mode of delivery, (adjusted HR = 1.45; 95% CI, 1.17–1.80).

Conclusions

Children born following long IPI are at increased risk for pediatric OSAS.
The Black Hole Entropy Distance Conjecture and Black Hole Evaporation
Authors: Lüben Marvin , Lüst Dieter , Ribes Metidieri Ariadna
Published: December 2020

We extend the recently proposed Black Hole Entropy Distance Conjecture to the case of charged black holes in de Sitter space. By systematically studying distances in the space of black hole geometries with multiple horizons, we find that the distance is generically related to the logarithm of the entropy. From the infinite distance conjecture this predicts the appearance of a massless tower of modes in the limit of infinite entropy. Further, we study the evaporation of these black holes and relate it to the geometric distance. We find that the corresponding distance to the final stage of evaporation is finite. We conclude that evaporation does not lead to the appearance of a light tower of black hole microstates.
Additional Flux Pinning in Sn‐Doped Nb3Al Superconductor
Authors: Li Xinhua , Ma Qingshuang , Dong Ji , Ahamad Tansir , Ma Zongqing
Published: December 2020

The Nb3(Al1−xSnx) superconductor with enhanced critical current density (Jc) is prepared by the process of mechanical alloying (MA) and subsequent low‐temperature sintering and the enhancement mechanism of Jc in Nb3(Al1−xSnx) is discussed. The analysis of the flux pinning force implies that there is an additional pinning mechanism apart from grain boundary pinning in Nb3(Al1−xSnx). The existence of dispersed Nb2Al nanoparticles (<30 nm) in Nb3(Al1−xSnx) is confirmed by microstructure observation. These nanosized Nb2Al particles can serve as flux pinning centers, which leads to the increase of the flux pinning force as well as the enhancement of Nb3(Al1−xSnx)'s Jc performance.
Prediction of Nozzle Clogging through Fluid–Structure Interaction in the Continuous Steel Casting Process
Authors: Lee Woojin , Kim Jong Gyu , Jung Jae-Il , Huh Kang Y.
Published: December 2020

Analysis is performed for fluid–structure interaction (FSI) by nozzle clogging in the continuous steel casting process. The scope of the analysis is confined to a submerged entry nozzle (SEN) interacting with turbulent molten steel flow. The fluid and solid domains are discretized in a single framework of the finite volume method in the OpenFOAM‐Extend version. Flow displacement by the clog is tracked and modal analysis performed to predict the vibration frequencies due to clogging. Parametric study is performed with respect to casting speed and immersed depth in the mold without clogging and with respect to the clog mass and its distribution on inner wall, bottom wall, and exit in the SEN. Results show the dominant frequency primarily influenced by the total mass of clog and not much affected by the clogging locations with good agreement between measurement and simulation.
Molecular phylogenetics of Phyllanthus sensu lato (Phyllanthaceae): Towards coherent monophyletic taxa
Authors: Bouman Roderick W. , Keßler Paul J.A. , Telford Ian R.H. , Bruhl Jeremy J. , Strijk Joeri S. , Saunders Richard M.K. , van Welzen Peter C.
Published: December 2020

The genus Phyllanthus is paraphyletic as currently circumscribed, with the genera Breynia, Glochidion and Synostemon nested within it. A phylogeny based on nuclear (ITS, PHYC) and chloroplast (matK, accD‐psaI, trnS‐trnG) markers is presented, including 18/18 subgenera and 53/70 sections. Differences in habit, branching type, floral and fruit characters are discussed, and we find indications for shifts in pollination and dispersal strategies possibly underlying the convergent evolution of these characters in multiple clades. Several taxonomic issues were found in the subgeneric classification of Phyllanthus that will require new transfers and rank changes. Phyllanthus subg. Anesonemoides, subg. Conami, subg. Emblica, subg. Gomphidium, subg. Kirganelia and subg. Phyllanthus are polyphyletic, and several sections appear to be paraphyletic (e.g., P. sect. Anisonema, sect. Emblicastrum, sect. Pseudoactephila, sect. Swartziani, and sect. Xylophylla); P. subg. Phyllanthodendron is furthermore paraphyletic with the genus Glochidion nested within. To create a classification of tribe Phyllantheae that comprises exclusively monophyletic taxa, it is necessary to treat several clades at the same taxonomic rank as the genera Breynia, Glochidion and Synostemon. Since combining all genera would lead to one giant heterogeneous genus that is difficult to define, we recommend dividing Phyllanthus into several monophyletic genera, which have previously been recognized and often possess diagnostic (combinations of) morphological characters. This new classification is forthcoming.
Laboratory diagnosis of a new outbreak of acute African swine fever in smallholder pig farms in Jos, Nigeria
Authors: Tizhe Emmanuel V. , Luka Pam D. , Adedeji Adeyinka J. , Tanko Polycarp , Gurumyen George Y. , Buba Deborah M. , Tizhe Ussa D. , Bitrus Asinamai A. , Oragwa Arthur O. , Shaibu Samson J. , Unanam Essieniffiok S. , Igbokwe Ikechukwu O. , Akpavie Stephen O. , Njoku Celestine O.
Published: December 2020

African swine fever (ASF) is a highly contagious fatal infectious disease of pigs and wild suids. The disease has a worldwide occurrence and significant impact on pig production. Two adult intensively raised large white boars from two farms in Jos with a history of sudden death were diagnosed of ASF between July and August 2019. Post‐mortem examination of carcasses grossly showed splenomegaly, haemorrhagic lymphadenitis and hepatomegaly with severe congestion. The kidneys were enlarged and had generalized petechiae and blood clot in the pelvis. The heart was moderately enlarged. Microscopic examination of the spleen and lymph nodes revealed severe lymphocytic depletion, haemorrhage and severe haemosiderosis. The liver was severely congested with focal coagulative necrosis of the hepatocytes. The kidneys were severely congested and showed renal tubular necrosis with few tubular protein casts. Tissue samples were confirmed to be positive for African swine fever virus (ASFV) by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay, and phylogenetic analysis revealed that the isolate belonged to genotype I.
Analytical bending solutions of thin plates by two‐dimensional generalized integral transform method
Authors: Qian Xu , Jinghui Zhang , Ullah Salamat , Yang Zhong , Litao Geng
Published: December 2020

In this paper, analytical bending solution of a rectangular thin plate with different boundary conditions was obtained by using the two‐dimensional generalized finite integral transform method. During the solution procedure, the vibrating beam functions satisfying different boundary conditions of the plate are taken as integral kernels to form the integral transform pairs. This two‐dimensional integral transform is used to the partial differential governing equations of the plate, to transform them to a system of linear algebraic equations from which the accurate analytical solution is obtained easily. The superiority of the present method is that it does not need to seek the deformation function in advance, and avoids the complex superposition processes. Thus, the proposed method is reasonable and feasible. The good agreement of present results and the analytical solution from the literature shows the validity of the method.
Summary and Conclusions
Authors: Leydesdorff Loet
Published: December 2020

Three themes have been central to my research program: (1) the dynamics of science, technology, and innovation; (2) the scientometric operationalization and measurement of these dynamics; and (3) the Triple Helix (TH) of university-industry-government relations. University-industry-government relations provide an institutional infrastructure carrying the potential of self-organization in the knowledge base of an economy. I elaborated these themes into the problem of relating (i) Luhmann’s sociological theory about meaning-processing in communications with (ii) information-theoretical operationalizations of the possible synergies in Triple-Helix relations, and (iii) anticipatory mechanisms in cultural evolutions.
A Methodology for Future Scenario Planning
Authors: Sardesai Saskia , Stute Markus , Kamphues Josef
Published: December 2020

The future is influenced by various possible developments and is hence difficult to predict. Still, each company or institution bases its vision and strategic progress on certain assumptions for the future. In order to prepare for various developments of the future, it is reasonable to consider different possible scenarios while building a future vision. Thus, this chapter focuses on the methodological approach for the generation of future scenarios showing what the surroundings for supply chains might be like in a time horizon until 2030. This integrates various political, economic, social, technological, legal and environmental influences and changes. The methodological framework required for generating scenarios is set by a combination of quantitative and qualitative scenario planning methodologies. Close coordination and collaboration between production and logistics guides the underlying scenario design to focus the context on supply chains. While considering trends described in Kalaitzi et al. 2020, this approach results in a set of macro scenarios, each describing a possible future development until 2030. The macro scenarios range from scenarios with progressive developments to regressing or stagnating evolutions.
What Counts as World Class? Global University Rankings and Shifts in Institutional Strategies
Authors: Erkkilä Tero , Piironen Ossi
Published: December 2020

Global university rankings have emerged as a benchmark of institutional success, setting standards for higher education policymaking and institutional practices. Nevertheless, only a marginal share of higher education institutions (HEI) are in a realistic position to be ranked as a ‘world-class’ institutions. In the European context, the global rankings have been used to highlight a performance gap between European and North American institutions. Here the focus has been on the HEIs in the top-100 positions, causing concerns over European higher education. This has also become a marker of world-class university. We analyze the strategies of 27 Northern European universities in different tiers to learn how they have adjusted to the reality of ranking. We conclude that the references to global rankings have increased between 2014 and 2018. At the same time, the references to rankings have become more implicit in nature. Nevertheless, we find that the discourse of global comparison and excellence has become more common in the strategies. There are also emerging references to the regional role of universities, which are apparent in the strategies of universities that are clearly outside the top-100 ranked institutions. However, this is also a reflection of the discourse of world-class university.
Correction to: Qualitative description of the submission and agonistic behavior of the Spix’s Macaw (Cyanopsitta spixii, Spix 1824), with special reference to the displacement displays
Authors: Marcuk Vladislav , Purchase Cromwell , de Boer Donovan , Bürkle Marcellus , Scholtyssek Katrin
Published: December 2020

The article Qualitative description of the submission and agonistic behavior of the Spix’s Macaw.
Equivalence Testing for Regression Discontinuity Designs
Authors: Hartman Erin
Published: December 2020

Regression discontinuity (RD) designs are increasingly common in political science. They have many advantages, including a known and observable treatment assignment mechanism. The literature has emphasized the need for “falsification tests” and ways to assess the validity of the design. When implementing RD designs, researchers typically rely on two falsification tests, based on empirically testable implications of the identifying assumptions, to argue the design is credible. These tests, one for continuity in the regression function for a pretreatment covariate, and one for continuity in the density of the forcing variable, use a null of no difference in the parameter of interest at the discontinuity. Common practice can, incorrectly, conflate a failure to reject evidence of a flawed design with evidence that the design is credible. The well-known equivalence testing approach addresses these problems, but how to implement equivalence tests in the RD framework is not straightforward. This paper develops two equivalence tests tailored for RD designs that allow researchers to provide statistical evidence that the design is credible. Simulation studies show the superior performance of equivalence-based tests over tests-of-difference, as used in current practice. The tests are applied to the close elections RD data presented in Eggers et al. (2015b).
The impact of older siblings on the language environment and language development of bilingual toddlers
Authors: Tsinivits Danai , Unsworth Sharon
Published: December 2020

Previous research has suggested that the language development of bilingual children benefits from more exposure and opportunities for language use. Typically, this research has used aggregated measures of exposure and use. The role of specific interlocutors and in particular older siblings has received comparatively little attention. In this study, we examine the impact of having an older sibling on the language environment and language development of a group of 31 bilingual Greek–Dutch toddlers aged 16 to 30 months growing up in the Netherlands. Approximately half (n = 14) of the toddlers had an older sibling. With respect to language environment, toddlers with older siblings were in general found to hear and use more Dutch at home than their first-born peers. There were however no differences between the two groups of toddlers in terms of parental language use. With respect to language development, toddlers with older siblings were found to score higher than first-born peers on measures of Dutch receptive vocabulary, productive vocabulary, and morphosyntactic complexity. For Greek, no such differences were observed. The findings are discussed in light of factors including family constellation, parental language proficiency, bilingual parenting strategies, and the wider sociolinguistic context.
Power Spectral Density Background Estimate and Signal Detection via the Multitaper Method
Authors: Di Matteo S. , Viall N. M. , Kepko L.
Published: December 2020

We present a new spectral analysis method for the identification of periodic signals in geophysical time series. We evaluate the power spectral density with the adaptive multitaper method, a nonparametric spectral analysis technique suitable for time series characterized by colored power spectral density. Our method provides a maximum likelihood estimation of the power spectral density background according to four different models. It includes the option for the models to be fitted on four smoothed versions of the power spectral density when there is a need to reduce the influence of power enhancements due to periodic signals. We use a statistical criterion to select the best background representation among the different smoothing + model pairs. Then, we define the confidence thresholds to identify the power spectral density enhancements related to the occurrence of periodic fluctuations (γ test). We combine the results with those obtained with the multitaper harmonic F test, an additional complex‐valued regression analysis from which it is possible to estimate the amplitude and phase of the signals. We demonstrate the algorithm on Monte Carlo simulations of synthetic time series and a case study of magnetospheric field fluctuations directly driven by periodic density structures in the solar wind. The method is robust and flexible. Our procedure is freely available as a stand‐alone IDL code at https://zenodo.org/record/3703168. The modular structure of our methodology allows the introduction of new smoothing methods and models to cover additional types of time series. The flexibility and extensibility of the technique makes it broadly suitable to any discipline.
Magnetic Anomalies in Five Lunar Impact Basins: Implications for Impactor Trajectories and Inverse Modeling
Authors: Hood L. L. , Oliveira J. S. , Andrews‐Hanna J. , Wieczorek M. A. , Stewart S. T.
Published: December 2020

A recent large‐scale map of the lunar crustal magnetic field is examined for the existence of magnetic anomalies internal to ringed impact basins. It is found that, of 25 basins with upper preNectarian and younger ages, 18 contain mapped internal anomalies with amplitudes of at least 1 nT at 30 km altitude. Of these, five are most confidently judged to contain intrinsic anomalies (i.e., anomalies located within the inner basin rims and originating at the times of basin formation): Crisium, Humboldtianum, Mendel‐Rydberg, Moscoviense, and Nectaris. Comparing the anomaly distributions with previous numerical simulations of the impact of iron‐rich planetesimals to form a large (SPA‐sized) basin, inferences are drawn about the likely trajectories of the impactors. Specifically, results suggest that impactor trajectories for these basins were within ∼45° of being vertical and tended to lie on average parallel to the lunar equatorial plane and the ecliptic plane. Inverse modeling of anomalies within these basins yields inferred directions of magnetization that are difficult to reconcile with the axial centered dipole hypothesis for the geometry of the internal lunar dynamo field: Paleomagnetic pole positions are widely scattered and, in agreement with a recent independent study, the two main anomalies within Crisium yield significantly different directions of magnetization.
Development and validation of prognostic model for predicting mortality of COVID-19 patients in Wuhan, China
Authors: Mei Qi , Wang Amanda Y. , Bryant Amy , Yang Yang , Li Ming , Wang Fei , Zhao Jia Wei , Ma Ke , Wu Liang , Chen Huawen , Luo Jinlong , Du Shangming , Halfter Kathrin , Li Yong , Kurts Christian , Hu Guangyuan , Yuan Xianglin , Li Jian
Published: December 2020

Novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) infection is a global public health issue, that has now affected more than 200 countries worldwide and caused a second wave of pandemic. Severe adult respiratory syndrome-CoV-2 (SARS-CoV-2) pneumonia is associated with a high risk of mortality. However, prognostic factors predicting poor clinical outcomes of individual patients with SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia remain under intensive investigation. We conducted a retrospective, multicenter study of patients with SARS-CoV-2 who were admitted to four hospitals in Wuhan, China from December 2019 to February 2020. Mortality at the end of the follow up period was the primary outcome. Factors predicting mortality were also assessed and a prognostic model was developed, calibrated and validated. The study included 492 patients with SARS-CoV-2 who were divided into three cohorts: the training cohort (n = 237), the validation cohort 1 (n = 120), and the validation cohort 2 (n = 135). Multivariate analysis showed that five clinical parameters were predictive of mortality at the end of follow up period, including advanced age [odds ratio (OR), 1.1/years increase (p < 0.001)], increased neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio [(NLR) OR, 1.14/increase (p < 0.001)], elevated body temperature on admission [OR, 1.53/°C increase (p = 0.005)], increased aspartate transaminase [OR, 2.47 (p = 0.019)], and decreased total protein [OR, 1.69 (p = 0.018)]. Furthermore, the prognostic model drawn from the training cohort was validated with validation cohorts 1 and 2 with comparable area under curves (AUC) at 0.912, 0.928, and 0.883, respectively. While individual survival probabilities were assessed, the model yielded a Harrell’s C index of 0.758 for the training cohort, 0.762 for the validation cohort 1, and 0.711 for the validation cohort 2, which were comparable among each other. A validated prognostic model was developed to assist in determining the clinical prognosis for SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia. Using this established model, individual patients categorized in the high risk group were associated with an increased risk of mortality, whereas patients predicted to be in the low risk group had a higher probability of survival.
Swedish intrauterine growth reference ranges of biometric measurements of fetal head, abdomen and femur
Authors: Lindström Linda , Ageheim Mårten , Axelsson Ove , Hussain-Alkhateeb Laith , Skalkidou Alkistis , Bergman Eva
Published: December 2020

Ultrasonic assessment of fetal growth is an important part of obstetric care to prevent adverse pregnancy outcome. However, lack of reliable reference ranges is a major barrier for accurate interpretation of the examinations. The aim of this study was to create updated Swedish national reference ranges for intrauterine size and growth of the fetal head, abdomen and femur from gestational week 12 to 42. This prospective longitudinal multicentre study included 583 healthy pregnant women with low risk of aberrant fetal growth. Each woman was examined up to five times with ultrasound from gestational week 12 + 3 to 41 + 6. The assessed intrauterine fetal biometric measurements were biparietal diameter (outer–inner), head circumference, mean abdominal diameter, abdominal circumference and femur length. A two-level hierarchical regression model was employed to account for the individual measurements of the fetus and the number of repeated visits for measurements while accounting for the random effect of the identified parameterization of gestational age. The expected median and variance, expressed in both standard deviations and percentiles, for each individual biometric measurement was calculated. The presented national reference ranges can be used for assessment of intrauterine size and growth of the fetal head, abdomen and femur in the second and third trimester of pregnancy.
The serine protease HtrA plays a key role in heat-induced dispersal of pneumococcal biofilms
Authors: Chao Yashuan , Bergenfelz Caroline , Sun Renhua , Han Xiao , Achour Adnane , Hakansson Anders P.
Published: December 2020

Streptococcus pneumoniae (the pneumococcus) colonizes the human nasopharynx by forming multicellular biofilms. Due to the high level of asymptomatic carriage, transition to infections, such as otitis media, pneumonia, sepsis, and meningitis, occurs often enough that the pneumococcus remains a major cause of disease and death globally. Virus infection and virus-induced responses, such as increased temperature (fever), trigger release of virulent bacteria from colonizing biofilms. The exact mechanisms involved in pneumococcal egress during biofilm dispersal remain unknown, although we hypothesize that disruption of the biofilm matrix encasing the bacteria is necessary. Here, we utilized established in vitro biofilm dispersal models to investigate the involvement of proteases in bacterial egress from pneumococcal biofilms. We demonstrate the importance of protease activity, both through increased bacterial release following addition of proteases and reduced heat-induced biofilm dispersal in the presence of protease inhibitors. We identify a key role for the surface-exposed serine protease HtrA, but not PrtA, in heat-induced biofilm dispersal. Bacterial release from htrA-negative biofilms was significantly reduced compared to wild-type isogenic strains but was restored and increased above wild-type levels following addition of recombinant HtrA. Understanding the specific mechanisms involved in bacterial egress may provide novel targets for future strategies aimed to specifically interfere with disease progression without disturbing nasopharyngeal biofilm colonization.
Impact of the COVID-19 lockdown period on adult musculoskeletal injuries and surgical management: a retrospective monocentric study
Authors: Crenn V. , El Kinani M. , Pietu G. , Leteve M. , Persigant M. , Toanen C. , Varenne Y. , Goffinet N. , Buffenoir K. , Javaudin F. , Montassier E.
Published: December 2020

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has led to the worldwide implementation of unprecedented public protection measures. On the 17th of March, the French government announced a lockdown of the population for 8 weeks. This monocentric study assessed the impact of this lockdown on the musculoskeletal injuries treated at the emergency department as well as the surgical indications. We carried out a retrospective study in the Emergency Department and the Surgery Department of Nantes University Hospital from 18 February to 11 May 2020. We collected data pertaining to the demographics, the mechanism, the type, the severity, and inter-hospital transfer for musculoskeletal injuries from our institution. We compared the 4-week pre-lockdown period and the 8-week lockdown period divided into two 4-week periods: early lockdown and late lockdown. There was a 52.1% decrease in musculoskeletal injuries among patients presenting to the Emergency Department between the pre-lockdown and the lockdown period (weekly incidence: 415.3 ± 44.2 vs. 198.5 ± 46.0, respectively, p < .001). The number of patients with surgical indications decreased by 33.4% (weekly incidence: 44.3 ± 3.8 vs. 28.5 ± 10.2, p = .048). The policy for inter-hospital transfers to private entities resulted in 64 transfers (29.4%) during the lockdown period. There was an increase in the incidence of surgical high severity trauma (Injury Severity Score > 16) between the pre-lockdown and the early lockdown period (2 (1.1%) vs. 7 (7.2%), respectively, p = .010) as well as between the pre-lockdown and the late lockdown period (2 (1.1%) vs. 10 (8.3%), respectively, p = .004). We observed a significant increase in the weekly emergency department patient admissions between the early and the late lockdown period (161.5 ± 22.9, 235.5 ± 27.7, respectively, p = .028). A pronounced decrease in the incidence of musculoskeletal injuries was observed secondary to the lockdown measures, with emergency department patient admissions being halved and surgical indications being reduced by a third. The increase in musculoskeletal injuries during the late confinement period and the higher incidence of severe trauma highlights the importance of maintaining a functional trauma center organization with an inter-hospital transfer policy in case of a COVID-19s wave lockdown.
Epidemic area contact history and sleep quality associated with posttraumatic stress symptoms in the first phase of COVID-19 outbreak in China
Authors: Zhang Fan , Shang Zhilei , Ma Haiying , Jia Yanpu , Sun Luna , Guo Xin , Wu Lili , Sun Zhuoer , Zhou Yaoguang , Wang Yan , Liu Nianqi , Liu Weizhi
Published: December 2020

The impact of 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak on mental health was of widespread concern recently. The present study aimed to exam sleep quality and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and potential influence factors in the first phases of COVID-19 massive outbreak in China. A snowball sampling technique was used and a total of 2027 Chinese participated in the present study. Demographic information, epidemic area contact history, sleep quality and PTSS data were collected with an internet-based cross-sectional survey. Results suggested that 59.7% participants were not fully satisfied with their sleep quality, and 50.9% participants had various degrees of short sleep duration problems. 44.1% and 33.0% participants had sleep disturbance and sleep onset latency problems. Also, the prevalence of PTSS reached 4.7% in the self-rating survey. Epidemic area contact history affected PTSS and latency onset of sleep under the influence of COVID-19. Epidemic area contact history and sleep quality had interaction effects on PTSS. The present study was one of the first to evaluate acute psychological responses and possible risk factors during the peak of COVID-19 in China and results indicate that keeping good sleep quality in individuals with pandemic exposure experiences is a way to prevent PTSS.
α-Alkylation of arylacetonitriles with primary alcohols catalyzed by backbone modified N-heterocyclic carbene iridium(i) complexes
Authors: Arslan Burcu , Gülcemal Süleyman
Published: December 2020

α-Alkylation of arylacetonitriles with primary alcohols was achieved by using backbone-modified NHC–IrI complexes as catalysts with turnover numbers of up to 960.
Ligand-free Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling with low Pd content: rapid development by a fluorescence-based high-throughput screening method
Authors: Lim Taeho , Ryoo Jeong Yup , Jang Mingyeong , Han Min Su
Published: December 2020

Highly efficient ligand-free Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling in aqueous solvent at room temperature was developed using metal oxides with low Pd content via a fluorescence-based high-throughput screening method.
A light-activated nanotherapeutic with broad-spectrum bacterial recognition to eliminate drug-resistant pathogens
Authors: Wei Xiaosong , Gao Yingchao , Hu Yuqing , Zhang Yufei , Zhang Xinge
Published: December 2020

Obstinate infections caused by drug-resistant bacteria severely threaten human health.
Visible-Light-Promoted Asymmetric Catalysis by Chiral Complexes of First-Row Transition Metals
Authors: Gong Lei , Li Yanjun , Ye Ziqi , Cai Jiaxin
Published: December 2020

This short review presents an overview of visible-light-driven asymmetric catalysis by chiral complexes of first-row transition metals. The processes described here include dual catalysis by a chiral complex of copper, nickel, cobalt, or chromium and an additional photoredox or energy-transfer catalyst, and bifunctional catalysis by a single chiral copper or nickel catalyst. These methods allow valuable transformations with high functional group compatibility. They provide stereoselective construction of carbon–carbon or carbon–heteroatom bonds under mild conditions, and produce a diverse range of previously unknown enantioenriched compounds.

1 Introduction

2 Nickel-Based Photocatalytic Asymmetric Catalysis

3 Copper-Based Photocatalytic Asymmetric Catalysis

4 Photocatalytic Asymmetric Catalysis by Chiral Complexes of Cobalt or Chromium

5 Conclusion
Role of Homeopathy in Epidemics: Paving Way for a Plausible Solution in the Management of COVID-19/SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Dutta Abhijit
Published: December 2020

The emergence and spread of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) from Wuhan, China, has become a global threat. The high infectivity and drastic outcomes have made this a paramount health concern. Effective therapy or vaccine to arrest the progress has still not been proved. Homeopathy has a long reputation and evidence of intervening in several epidemic situations, notably the recent influenza. Symptoms-based personalised approach makes it more precise to treat patients. The symptom complex presented by several patients suffering from the COVID-19 can help to select the genus epidemicus, one or few medicine/s to treat and prevent the epidemic. A proper hygienic measure and medication are sufficient to manage a large number of cases with mild symptoms. Severe cases with or without complications are an important concern and need critical management. A significant body of literature justifies the consideration of homeopathy in this situation. A conceptual framework may be drawn to integrate homeopathy with standard therapy to find a better treatment plan. Keeping the symptoms and existing evidence in consideration, some medicines may be proposed for further trials, treatment and prevention plan.
Modified Total Intrinsic Rehabilitation Procedure for Ulnar Palsy
Authors: Purushothaman Venugopal , Joseph Jijo , Ambat Sabari Girish , Vinothkumar Krishnan , Venkataswami Ramaswami
Published: December 2020

Tendon transfer for ulnar palsy has been an area of interest for many a stalwart in hand surgery, especially in southeast Asian countries, mainly because of the prevalence of Hansen’s disease in these countries. Although the procedures look standardized, there are still many lacunae. Here in this article, we discuss about a surgical technique by which all the motor disabilities evolving due to ulnar nerve paralysis are addressed with three sets of tendon transfers performed in a single stage for: (1) key pinch restoration, (2) claw correction and adduction of fingers, and (3) claw correction and abduction of fingers.
Prognostic Impact of Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Patients Presenting with Acute Symptomatic Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Le Mao Raphael , Jiménez David , Bikdeli Behnood , Porres-Aguilar Mateo , García-Ortega Alberto , Rosa Vladimir , Schellong Sebastian , Mazzolai Lucia , Rivera-Civico Francisco , Monreal Manuel ,   the RIETE Investigators
Published: December 2020

Background In patients with pulmonary embolism (PE), there is a lack of comprehensive data on the prevalence and prognostic significance of pre-existing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Methods In this study of patients with PE from the Registro Informatizado de la Enfermedad TromboEmbólica (RIETE) registry, we assessed the prevalence of OSA, and the association between pre-existing OSA and the outcomes of all-cause mortality, PE-related mortality, recurrences, and major bleeding over 30 days after initiation of PE treatment. Additionally, we also examined rates of outcomes within 90 days and 1 year following the diagnosis of PE.

Results Of 4,153 patients diagnosed with PE, 241 (5.8%; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 5.1–6.6%) had pre-existing OSA. Overall, 166 (4.0%; 95% CI: 3.4–4.6%) died during the first 30 days of follow-up. In multivariable analysis, the OSA syndrome was not a significant predictor of death from any cause (odds ratio [OR]: 1.5; 95% CI: 0.8–2.9; p = 0.19). However, patients with pre-existing OSA had an increased PE-specific mortality (adjusted OR: 3.0; 95% CI: 1.3–6.8; p = 0.01) compared with those without OSA. OSA was not significantly associated with 30-day recurrent venous thromboembolism (adjusted OR: 0.6; 95% CI: 0.1–4.7; p = 0.65) or major bleeds (adjusted OR: 1.0; 95% CI: 0.4–2.2; p = 1.0). Findings were similar at 90-day and 1-year follow-ups.

Conclusion In patients presenting with PE, pre-existing OSA is relatively infrequent. Patients with OSA were at increased risk of PE-related mortality when compared with those without OSA.
Metastatic Signet Ring Cell Adenocarcinoma—An Autopsy Finding in Myocardium: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Kaur Jasmeen , Kaur Amarvir , Punia Rajpal Singh , Dsari Harish
Published: December 2020

Introduction  Stomach is the most common primary site of signet ring cell adenocarcinoma unlike breast or pancreas. The distant metastasis is commonly seen in peritoneum, liver, and lungs. Few cases have been reported on metastasis in pericardial fluid with presentation of cardiac tamponade. However, to the best of my knowledge, myocardium is one of the rarest sites of distant metastasis.

Case Report A 26-year-old male had abdominal pain at home and was brought dead to the hospital. The postmortem examination was done, and heart was sent for histopathological report. The gross examination of heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, and spleen were unremarkable and on microscopy, sections examined from lung and left ventricular wall showed infiltration by a tumor composed of signet ring cells and few glands in the background of the mucinous material and the primary site of tumor was suggested to be stomach and rectum, whereas sections examined from liver, kidneys and spleen did not show any significant pathological change or any metastatic deposit.

Conclusion Distant metastasis of signet ring cell carcinoma is mostly seen in peritoneum, liver, and lungs. So, to conclude myocardium is the rarest site of distant metastasis. Therefore, the heart autopsy is of utmost importance to look for the cause of death and also important from the perspective of academic value.
Cuphea hyssopifolia (false heather).
Authors: Kaufman Sylvan
Published: December 2020

Considered a transformative invasive plant in Cuba by Oviedo Prieto et al. (2012); however, no information could be found on this species' environmental impacts. It is considered a potentially serious weed in Hawaii (HEAR, 2016). Naturalized in tropical regions around the world where it has been widely planted as an ornamental (HEAR, 2016).
Adaptability of the ubiquitin-proteasome system to proteolytic and folding stressors
Authors: Work Jeremy J. , Brandman Onn
Published: December 2020

Aging, disease, and environmental stressors are associated with failures in the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS), yet a quantitative understanding of how stressors affect the proteome and how the UPS responds is lacking. Here we assessed UPS performance and adaptability in yeast under stressors using quantitative measurements of misfolded substrate stability and stress-dependent UPS regulation by the transcription factor Rpn4. We found that impairing degradation rates (proteolytic stress) and generating misfolded proteins (folding stress) elicited distinct effects on the proteome and on UPS adaptation. Folding stressors stabilized proteins via aggregation rather than overburdening the proteasome, as occurred under proteolytic stress. Still, the UPS productively adapted to both stressors using separate mechanisms: proteolytic stressors caused Rpn4 stabilization while folding stressors increased RPN4 transcription. In some cases, adaptation completely prevented loss of UPS substrate degradation. Our work reveals the distinct effects of proteotoxic stressors and the versatility of cells in adapting the UPS.
Constructing a virtual two-qubit gate by sampling single-qubit operations
Authors: Mitarai Kosuke , Fujii Keisuke
Published: December 2020

We show a certain kind of non-local operations can be simulated by sampling a set of local operations with a quasi-probability distribution when the task of a quantum circuit is to evaluate an expectation value of observables. Utilizing the result, we describe a strategy to decompose a two-qubit gate to a sequence of single-qubit operations. Required operations are projective measurement of a qubit in Pauli basis, and π/2 rotation around x, y, and z axes. The required number of sampling to get an expectation value of a target observable within an error of ϵ is roughly O(9
k
/ϵ
2), where k is the number of ‘cuts’ performed. The proposed technique enables to perform ‘virtual’ gates between a distant pair of qubits, where there is no direct interaction and thus a number of swap gates are inevitable otherwise. It can also be utilized to improve the simulation of a large quantum computer with a small-sized quantum device, which is an idea put forward by Peng et al (2019 arXiv:1904.00102). This work can enhance the connectivity of qubits on near-term, noisy quantum computers.