bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sequential sparse Bayesian learning for time-varying direction of arrival
Authors: Park Yongsung , Meyer Florian , Gerstoft Peter
Published: March 2021

This paper presents methods for the estimation of the time-varying directions of arrival (DOAs) of signals emitted by moving sources. Following the sparse Bayesian learning (SBL) framework, prior information of unknown source amplitudes is modeled as a multi-variate Gaussian distribution with zero-mean and time-varying variance parameters. For sequential estimation of the unknown variance, we present two sequential SBL-based methods that propagate statistical information across time to improve DOA estimation performance. The first method heuristically calculates the parameters of an inverse-gamma hyperprior based on the source signal estimate from the previous time step. In addition, a second sequential SBL method is proposed, which performs a prediction step to calculate the prior distribution of the current variance parameter from the variance parameter estimated at the previous time step. The SBL-based sequential processing provides high-resolution DOA tracking capabilities. Performance improvements are demonstrated by using simulated data as well as real data from the SWellEx-96 experiment.
Droplet relaxation of molten metals in polypropylene matrix: Measurement of the interfacial tension
Authors: Lecocq Hubert , Lhost Olivier , Serghei Anatoli , Cassagnau Philippe
Published: March 2021

Using the retraction method of a deformed drop, the interfacial tension between polypropylene (PP) and two different molten metals (tin and the eutectic SnAgCu alloy) has been measured at 250 and 230 °C, respectively. Systematic rheological investigations of the materials under study enabled us to measure the viscosity of the polymer matrix and that of the metal liquids. A viscosity of 1.9 and 2 mPa s in the melt is reported for the tin and SnAgCu alloys, respectively. Based on these investigations, the interfacial tension between the molten metals and the polymer matrix is determined for the first time. The influence of the polymer matrix viscoelasticity and liquid metal surface oxidation is analyzed in order to determine the most accurate conditions for measuring the interfacial tension between the polymer and the liquid metal. Values as high as 350 mN m−1 (for PP/SnAgCu) and 140 mN m−1 (PP/tin) are reported, indicating a poor affinity between the molten metal and the polymer matrix. By temperature quenching, the dispersion of the liquid metal drops in the polypropylene under constant shear, and the formation of solid metal ellipsoids is obtained, with a characteristic size that is limited by the critical deformation parameter defined by Taylor. Our study, thus, offers an experimental approach of measuring the interfacial tension between two highly incompatible liquids, opening at the same time a promising perspective for obtaining, by a rheological approach, metal particles with a non-negligible form factor.
Finding Sport and Kinesiology
Authors: Martens Rainer
Published: March 2021

Learn how sport influenced Rainer Martens’s life and his epiphany to become a physical educator and coach, which led him to study sport psychology. The author briefly recounts his work in sport psychology and coaching education. Next, the author describes how he stumbled into publishing, founding Human Kinetics, and describes how this company helped define kinesiology and influence the broad field of physical activity. The author concludes by reporting on his continued involvement in sport and the development of two community centers that focus on sport and physical activity.
Philosophy and Kinesiology: A Tenuous Past and an Uncertain Future
Authors: Morgan William J.
Published: March 2021

This essay addresses four main questions. The first is devoted to how I became interested in the philosophy of sport. The second question concerns how my academic career has evolved over time in line with various developments in the field that privileged certain lines of study over others and which largely marginalized philosophy in particular and the humanities in general. The third question centers on what I take to be my own main contributions to the philosophy of sport and what, if any, impact they may have had on the larger field of kinesiology. Finally, I offer my own brief prognosis of what I think the future has in store for the relationship between sport philosophy and kinesiology.
Segmentation of the Wassuk Range normal fault system, Nevada (USA): Implications for earthquake rupture and Walker Lane dynamics
Authors: Surpless Ben , Thorne Sarah
Published: March 2021

Normal faults are commonly segmented along strike, with segments that localize strain and influence propagation of slip during earthquakes. Although the geometry of segments can be constrained by fault mapping, it is challenging to determine seismically relevant segments along a fault zone. Because slip histories, geometries, and strengths of linkages between normal fault segments fundamentally control the propagation of rupture during earthquakes, and differences in segment slip rates result in differential uplift of adjacent footwalls, we used along-strike changes in footwall morphology to detect fault segments and the relative strength of the mechanical links between them.

We applied a new geomorphic analysis protocol to the Wassuk Range fault, Nevada, within the actively deforming Walker Lane. The protocol examines characteristics of footwall morphology, including range-crest continuity, bedrock-channel long profiles, catchment area variability, and footwall relief, to detect changes in strike-parallel footwall characteristics. Results revealed six domains with significant differences in morphology that we used to identify seismically relevant fault segments and segment boundaries. We integrated our results with previous studies to determine relative strength of links between the six segments, informing seismic hazard assessment. When combined with recent geodetic studies, our results have implications for the future evolution of the Walker Lane, suggesting changes in the accommodation of strain across the region. Our analysis demonstrates the power of this method to efficiently detect along-strike changes in footwall morphology related to fault behavior, permitting future researchers to perform reconnaissance assessment of normal fault segmentation worldwide.
Widespread hydrothermal vents and associated volcanism record prolonged Cenozoic magmatism in the South China Sea
Authors: Zhao Fang , Berndt Christian , Alves Tiago M. , Xia Shaohong , Li Lin , Mi Lijun , Fan Chaoyan
Published: March 2021

The continental margin of the northern South China Sea is considered to be a magma-poor rifted margin. This work uses new seismic, bathymetric, gravity, and magnetic data to reveal how extensively magmatic processes have reshaped the latter continental margin. Widespread hydrothermal vent complexes and magmatic edifices such as volcanoes, igneous sills, lava flows, and associated domes are confirmed in the broader area of the northern South China Sea. Newly identified hydrothermal vents have crater- and mound-shaped surface expressions, and occur chiefly above igneous sills and volcanic edifices. Detailed stratigraphic analyses of volcanoes and hydrothermal vents suggest that magmatic activity took place in discrete phases between the early Miocene and the Quaternary. Importantly, the occurrence of hydrothermal vents close to the present seafloor, when accompanied by shallow igneous sills, suggest that fluid seepage is still active, well after main phases of volcanism previously documented in the literature. After combining geophysical and geochemical data, this study postulates that the extensive post-rift magmatism in the northern South China Sea is linked to the effect of a mantle plume over a long time interval. We propose that prolonged magmatism resulted in contact metamorphism in carbon-rich sediments, producing large amounts of hydrothermal fluid along the northern South China Sea. Similar processes are expected in parts of magma-poor margins in association with CO2/CH4 and heat flow release into sea water and underlying strata.
High-sensitivity cardiac troponin I: is ethnicity relevant?
Authors: Kalaria Tejas R , Harris Nicola , Sensi Harminder , Valentine Ross , Asif Usama , Sharrod-Cole Hayley , Coley-Grant Deon , Min San San , Ford Clare , Gama Rousseau
Published: March 2021

Aims

To evaluate 99th percentile upper reference limits (URLs) and investigate ethnic differences for the Abbott Architect high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I (hs-cTnI) in a middle-aged to elderly cosmopolitan population.

Methods

In subjects without cardiovascular disease and after outlier exclusion, data on hs-cTnI from 149 white men, 150 white women, 150 South Asian (SA) men and 150 SA women in their sixth, seventh and eight decades were analysed. Each ethnicity–gender–decade subgroup consisted of 50 patients except white men in their sixth decade (n=49).

Results

The overall, women and men hs-cTnI 99th percentile URLs were 22.1, 17.9 and 24.8 ng/L, respectively. Median (IQR) hs-cTnI was higher in men (2.7 (1.8–4.1) ng/L) than in women (1.9 (1.1–3.2) ng/L; p<0.001). White men (3.2 (2.2–4.4) ng/L) had higher hs-cTnI than SA men (2.5 (1.6–3.6) ng/L; p<0.001), white women (2.1 (1.3–3.3) ng/L; p<0.001) and SA women (1.6 (1.0–3.0) ng/L; p<0.001). Hs-cTnI in white women was similar to SA women (p=0.07) and SA men (p=0.07). Patients in the eighth decade had higher hs-cTnI (p<0.05) than those in sixth decade within each ethnicity–gender subgroup. Of significant associations, age had the greatest impact on hs-cTnI followed by gender and then ethnicity.

Conclusion

We report white–SA differences in hs-cTnI in men and a similar trend in women. We confirm age and gender differences in hs-cTnI, irrespective of ethnicity. Further studies are required to determine whether ethnicity-specific age and gender 99th percentile URLs improve detection or exclusion of myocardial injury.
Validation of multiplex immunofluorescence and digital image analysis for programmed death-ligand 1 expression and immune cell assessment in non-small cell lung cancer: comparison with conventional immunohistochemistry
Authors: Wu Jianghua , Mao Luning , Sun Wei , Yang Xin , Wang Haiyue , Liu Xinying , Chi Kaiwen , Huang Xiaozheng , Lin Dongmei
Published: March 2021

Aims

This study aimed to validate the application of combined multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) and digital image analysis (DIA) in formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tissues for the quantitative assessment of programmed death-ligand 1(PD-L1) and immune cells (ICs) in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

Fifty resected samples of NSCLC were sequentially stained with a DNA-tagged mIF (panel including PD-L1, CKpan, CD8, CD68 and 4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI)) and conventional immunohistochemistry (cIHC). The assessment of cell density and consistency of tumour proportion score (TPS) via DIA were compared with those by pathologists.

Results

A strong correlation in the cell population of immune markers was obtained between mIF and cIHC (for PD-L1: R=0.9304, CKpan: R=0.8231, CD8: R=0.9314 and CD68: R=0.8366) within 95% limits of agreement. The continuous TPS calculated using mIF was highly consistent with the IHC staining results which were evaluated by pathologists (R=0.9362). However, in the comparison of TPS using interval variables, a poor agreement was obtained at a cut-off of 1% (κ=0.197), whereas excellent agreement was achieved at cut-offs of 50% (κ=0.908) and 5% (κ=0.823). DIA on mIF showed that PD-L1 commonly colocalised with CD68+macrophages and CD8+cytotoxic cells were closer to PD-L1-/CK+tumour cells (TCs) than to PD-L1+/CK+TCs in spatial distribution.

Conclusions

A combination of mIF and DIA is useful for the quantification of PD-L1 expression and IC populations in NSCLC. Further validation of TPS at a cut-off of 1% and assay harmonisation is essential for translating this method in a diagnostic setting.
Suicide attempt and intentional self-harm during the earlier phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in Washtenaw County, Michigan
Authors: Bergmans Rachel S , Larson Peter S
Published: March 2021

Objective

Determine the early impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on emergency department (ED) encounters for suicide attempt and intentional self-harm at a regional tertiary academic medical centre in Washtenaw County, Michigan, which is one of the wealthier and more diverse counties in the state.

Methods

Interrupted time series analysis of daily ED encounters from October 2015 through October 2020 for suicide attempt and intentional self-harm (subject n=3002; 62% female; 78% Caucasian) using an autoregressive integrated moving average modelling approach.

Results

There were 39.9% (95% CI 22.9% to 53.1%) fewer ED encounters for suicide attempt and intentional self-harm during the first 7 months of the COVID-19 pandemic (ie, on or after 10 March 2020, when the first cases of COVID-19 were identified in Michigan).

Conclusions

Fewer individuals sought emergency care for suicide-related behaviour during the earlier phase of the COVID-19 pandemic than expected when compared to prior years. This suggests initial outbreaks of COVID-19 and state of emergency executive orders did not increase suicide-related behaviour in the short term. More work is needed to determine long-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on suicide-related behaviour and whether there are high-risk groups.
Activation of cryptic donor splice sites by non-coding and codingPAX6variants contributes to congenital aniridia
Authors: Tarilonte Maria , Ramos Patricia , Moya Jennifer , Fernandez-Sanz Guilermo , Blanco-Kelly Fiona , Swafiri Saoud Tahsin , Villaverde Cristina , Romero Raquel , Tamayo Alejandra , Gener Blanca , Calvas Patrick , Ayuso Carmen , Corton Marta
Published: March 2021

Background

The paired-domain transcription factor paired box gene 6 (PAX6) causes a wide spectrum of ocular developmental anomalies, including congenital aniridia, Peters anomaly and microphthalmia. Here, we aimed to functionally assess the involvement of seven potentially non-canonical splicing variants on missplicing of exon 6, which represents the main hotspot region for loss-of-functionPAX6variants.

Methods

By locus-specific analysis ofPAX6using Sanger and/or targeted next-generation sequencing, we screened a Spanish cohort of 106 patients withPAX6-related diseases. Functional splicing assays were performed by in vitro minigene approaches or directly in RNA from patient-derived lymphocytes cell line, when available.

Results

Five out seven variants, including three synonymous changes, one small exonic deletion and one non-canonical splice variant, showed anomalous splicing patterns yielding partial exon skipping and/or elongation.

Conclusion

We describe new spliceogenic mechanisms forPAX6variants mediated by creating or strengthening five different cryptic donor sites at exon 6. Our work revealed that the activation of crypticPAX6splicing sites seems to be a recurrent and underestimated cause of aniridia. Our findings pointed out the importance of functional assessment of apparently silentPAX6variants to uncover hidden genetic alterations and to improve variant interpretation for genetic counselling in aniridia.
Timing of primary syphilis treatment and impact on the development of treponemal antibodies: a cross-sectional clinic-based study
Authors: Towns Janet M , Leslie David E , Denham Ian , Azzato Francesca , Karapanagiotidis Theo , Williamson Deborah A , Graves Stephen R , Fairley Christopher K , Bissessor Melanie , Chow Eric P F , Zhang Lei , Chen Marcus Y
Published: March 2021

Background

Serology is negative in a proportion of primary syphilis cases where Treponema pallidum PCR testing is positive. We aimed to identify discordant, T. pallidum PCR-positive, serology-negative primary syphilis cases and any clinical or laboratory factors associated with failure to subsequently seroconvert.

Methods

Serodiscordant primary syphilis cases that were T. pallidum PCR-positive and serology-negative (including rapid plasma reagin, T. pallidum particle agglutination, T. pallidum enzyme immunoassay or T. pallidum chemiluminescence assay) were identified from the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre electronic records between April 2011 and December 2019. Clinical and laboratory associations were examined.

Results

There were 814 primary syphilis cases in the study period and 38 (4.7%) were serodiscordant, 35 in men who have sex with men. Thirty-two had follow-up serology performed a median of 24 days later, of which 16 (50%) seroconverted, mostly (81%) within 6 weeks. Failure to seroconvert was significantly associated with treatment on day 1. Of the 12 cases treated on day 1, 10 (83%) failed to seroconvert compared with 6 of 20 (30%) among those who were treated after day 1.

Discussion

Earlier treatment of primary syphilis can prevent the development of serological markers. T. pallidum PCR can identify primary syphilis lesions before the development of serological markers and improve diagnosis of early primary syphilis lesions. Serology alone will miss a proportion of primary syphilis infections and should be repeated if a diagnosis of syphilis is being considered.
Neurotoxicities in the treatment of HIV between dolutegravir, rilpivirine and dolutegravir/rilpivirine: a meta-analysis
Authors: Allen Reeves Anthony , Fuentes Andrea V , Caballero Joshua , Thomas Jennifer E , Mosley II Juan F , Harrington Catherine
Published: March 2021

Objective

To assess the risk of neuropsychiatric adverse effects (ie, depression, anxiety, insomnia, dizziness, suicidal behaviour) among patients treated with rilpivirine, dolutegravir and dolutegravir/rilpivirine.

Design

This is a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Quality of evidence was assessed using Jadad scoring system.

Data sources

Three electronic databases were searched for available publications up to 1 May 2020. Searches included relevant studies, trial registers, conference proceeding abstracts and grey literature.

Inclusion criteria

Randomised controlled trials with data focused on adult participants (ie, 18 years of age or older) receiving dolutegravir 50 mg, rilpivirine 25 mg or combination of dolutegravir 50 mg/rilpivirine 25 mg once daily.

Results

Twenty studies with a minimum duration of 48 weeks and average Jadad score of 4 were included (n=10 998). Primary objective demonstrated a relative risk (RR) synergistic effect on depressive symptoms for dolutegravir/rilpivirine (RR=2.82; 95% CI (1.12 to 7.10)) when compared with dolutegravir (RR=1.10; 95% CI (0.88 to 1.38)) and rilpivirine (RR=1.08; 95% CI (0.80 to 1.48)). Secondary objectives showed no difference between dolutegravir, rilpivirine and dolutegravir/rilpivirine to efavirenz. Additionally, excluding efavirenz studies, dolutegravir and dolutegravir/rilpivirine yielded increased depression (RR=1.34; 95% CI (1.04 to 1.74)).

Conclusion

The combination of dolutegravir/rilpivirine appears to increase the risk of depressive symptoms. Despite the increase, the clinical significance is unknown and needs further study. Additionally, neurotoxicity risk appears similar between dolutegravir, rilpivirine and dolutegravir/rilpivirine antiretroviral therapy when compared with efavirenz-based antiretroviral therapy.
Clinical efficacy and tolerability of 1.5 g/day oral amoxicillin therapy without probenecid for the treatment of syphilis
Authors: Ikeuchi Kazuhiko , Fukushima Kazuaki , Tanaka Masaru , Yajima Keishiro , Imamura Akifumi
Published: March 2021

Objectives

Intramuscular benzathine penicillin G is not available in certain countries. In a previous report, 3 g/day amoxicillin with probenecid was shown to be effective in treating syphilis in patients with HIV; however, 7.3% of patients changed their therapy owing to adverse events. The objective of this study was to assess the clinical efficacy and tolerability of 1.5 g/day amoxicillin without probenecid for the treatment of syphilis.

Methods

The routine clinical records of patients diagnosed with syphilis and treated with 1.5 g/day amoxicillin at a tertiary care hospital between 2006 and 2018 were retrospectively analysed. Syphilis was diagnosed if serum rapid plasma reagin (RPR) titres were ≥8 RU and the Treponema pallidum latex-agglutination test was positive. Serological cure was defined as a ≥fourfold decrease in the RPR titre within 12 months in symptomatic early syphilis and within 24 months in latent syphilis.

Results

Overall, 138 patients (112 with HIV) were analysed. The percentages of primary, secondary, early latent, late latent and latent syphilis of unknown duration were 8.0%, 50.0%, 25.4%, 5.8% and 10.9%, respectively. The median treatment duration was 4.5 weeks (IQR 4–8 weeks), which was not related to the stage of syphilis. Two patients (1.5%) changed treatment due to skin rash. The rate of serological cure was 94.9% (131/138; 95% CI 89.8% to 97.9%) overall; 93.8% (105/112; 95% CI 87.5% to 97.5%) in patients with HIV and 100% (26/26; 95% CI 86.8% to 100%) in patients without HIV. Treatment duration was not related to the treatment efficacy.

Conclusion

The regimen of 1.5 g/day amoxicillin without probenecid is highly effective with a low switch rate in patients with and without HIV.
Evidence of HIV pre-exposure or post-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP/PEP) among blood donors: a pilot study, England June 2018 to July 2019
Authors: Harvala Heli , Reynolds Claire , Ijaz Samreen , Maddox Vicki , Penchala Sujan Dilly , Amara Alieu , Else Laura , Brailsford Susan , Khoo Saye
Published: March 2021

Objective

Due to increased use of pre-exposure prohylaxis (PrEP) and its potential to affect HIV screening of blood donors, we undertook antiretroviral residual testing among HIV-negative male donors in England.

Methods

Residual plasma samples were obtainnd from 46 male donors confirmed positive for syphilis and 96 donors who were repeat reactive for HIV antibodies in screening but confirmed as HIV-negative by reference testing. These were tested for concentrations of tenofovir and emtricitabine by high-performance liquid chromatograhpy coupled with mass spectrometry.

Results

We found evidence of pre-exposure or post-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP/PEP) use in three male blood donors confirmed positive for syphilis (3 out of 46 screened, 6.5%). Two were estimated to have taken PrEP/PEP within a day of donating, and the third within 2 days. Two were new donors, whereas one had donated previously but acquired syphilis infection after his last donation.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that a small proportion of blood donors have not been disclosing PrEP/PEP use and therefore donating in non-compliance to donor eligibility criteria.
Impact of aspiration catheter size on first-pass effect in the combined use of contact aspiration and stent retriever technique
Authors: Pérez-García Carlos , Maegerlein Christian , Rosati Santiago , Rüther Charlotte , Gómez-Escalonilla Carlos , Zimmer Claus , Arrazola Juan , Berndt Maria Teresa , Moreu Manuel
Published: March 2021

Background and purpose

The first-pass effect (FPE), defined as a first-pass Expanded Treatment in Cerebral Ischaemia (eTICI) 2c/3 reperfusion, has emerged as a key metric of efficacy in mechanical thrombectomy (MT) for acute ischaemic stroke. The proximal balloon occlusion together with direct thrombus aspiration during stent retriever thrombectomy (PROTECT)-PLUS technique consists in the use of a balloon guide catheter and a combined MT approach involving contact aspiration and a stent retriever. The aim of this study is to assess the effectiveness and safety of the PROTECT-PLUS technique using distal aspiration catheters (DACs) with different inner diameters by comparing the large-bore DAC Catalyst 7 versus the use of medium-bore DACs.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database of patients treated with PROTECT-PLUS using Catalyst 7, Catalyst 6 or Catalyst 5 with an occlusion of either the terminal carotid artery or the M1 or M2 segments of the middle cerebral artery from 2018 to 2020 in two comprehensive stroke centres. Baseline characteristics and procedural, safety and clinical outcomes were compared between groups. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed in order to find independent predictors of FPE.

Results

We identified 238 consecutive patients treated with PROTECT-PLUS as front-line approach using Catalyst 7 (n=86), Catalyst 6 (n=78) and Catalyst 5 (n=76). The rate of FPE was higher with Catalyst 7 (54%) than Catalyst 6 (33%, p=0.009) and Catalyst 5 (32%, p=0.005), in addition to higher final eTICI 2c/3 reperfusion rates, shorter procedural times, lower need of rescue therapy and fewer procedure-related complications. After multivariable analysis the sole independent factor associated to FPE was the use of Catalyst 7 (OR 2.34; 95% CI 1.19 to 4.58; p=0.014).

Conclusion

Further development of combined MT by incorporating larger-bore aspiration catheters is associated with higher reperfusion rates, shorter procedure times, and lower need of rescue therapy while reducing the complication rates.
Impact of COVID-19 lockdown on smoking consumption in a large representative sample of Italian adults
Authors: Carreras Giulia , Lugo Alessandra , Stival Chiara , Amerio Andrea , Odone Anna , Pacifici Roberta , Gallus Silvano , Gorini Giuseppe
Published: March 2021

Objectives

Italy is one of the first countries that imposed a nationwide stay-at-home order during the COVID-19 outbreak, inevitably resulting in changes in lifestyles and addictive behaviours. The aim of this work is to investigate the impact of lockdown restrictions on smoking habits using data collected within the Lost in Italy project.

Methods

A web-based cross-sectional study was conducted on a representative sample of 6003 Italian adults aged 18–74 years. Study subjects were recruited from 27 April to 3 May 2020 and were asked to report changes in smoking habits before the lockdown and at the time of interview.

Results

During the lockdown, 5.5% of the overall sample quit or reduced smoking, but 9.0% of the sample started, relapsed smoking or increased their smoking intensity. In total, the lockdown increased cigarette consumption by 9.1%. An improvement in smoking habits was associated with younger age, occasional smoking and unemployment, whereas a worsening was mainly associated with mental distress. In particular, an increase in cigarette consumption during lockdown was more frequently reported among those with worsening quality of life (OR: 2.05; 95% CI: 1.49 to 2.80), reduction in sleep quantity (OR: 2.29; 95% CI: 1.71 to 3.07) and increased anxiety (OR: 1.83; 95% CI: 1.38 to 2.43) and depressive symptoms (OR: 2.04; 95% CI: 1.54 to 2.71).

Conclusions

COVID-19 lockdown had a huge impact on smoking consumption of the Italian general population. The main concern is for smokers who increase their cigarette consumption due to an increased mental distress. Providing greater resources for cessation services capable of reducing mental health symptoms in smokers is urgently needed.
Price and Product Quality Decisions for a Two-Echelon Supply Chain in the Blockchain Era
Authors: Sun Zhongmiao , Xu Qi , Shi Baoli
Published: March 2021

Frequent problems of counterfeiting have spawned consumer demands to monitor the entire supply chain. The application of blockchain technology with anti-counterfeiting and traceability can improve the reliability and authenticity of product information and eliminate consumer doubts about product quality. Furthermore, based on the transparency of blockchain technology, brand suppliers can independently obtain the market demand information through information sharing. This paper introduces a consumer suspicion coefficient to illustrate the application of blockchain technology in the supply chain. Considering product authenticity verification and information sharing, we study the optimal pricing and product quality decisions in a two-level supply chain under the following three scenarios: (1) no blockchain technology, a traditional supply chain, and no information sharing (case TN); (2) no blockchain technology but a traditional supply chain with information sharing (case TS); and (3) a supply chain based on blockchain technology (case BT). We find that when the consumer suspicion coefficient increases, consumers will have limited faith in the authenticity of the product, which will affect the retailer’s optimal decision and profit. By comparing the equilibrium results of several cases, we also find that demand information sharing by the retailer may not achieve a win-win outcome in a decentralized channel in the absence of blockchain technology. Under demand information sharing based on blockchain technology, however, if the consumer suspicion coefficient exceeds a certain threshold, the brand supplier and retailer can achieve a win–win outcome. In addition, the extended models reveal that in a centralized supply chain, regardless of the state of market demand, blockchain technology can always improve product quality and retail price and optimize supply chain profit.
Nonlinear Vibration Analysis of a Hinged–Clamped Beam Moving with Pulsating Speed and Subjected to Internal Resonance
Authors: Sahoo Bamadev
Published: March 2021

This work focuses on the revelation of nonlinear characteristics of a hinged–clamped beam moving with pulsating speed. Cubic geometric nonlinearity, viscous damping due to intervening medium, and viscoelastic material damping are considered in the governing equation of motion. Parametric excitation is induced in the system due to pulsating speed amid 3:1 internal resonance between the first two modes. A perturbation technique-direct method of multiple scales is applied to solve the problem. Nonlinear features like various stability and bifurcation phenomena are extracted by applying a continuation algorithm. Trivial state stability plot and the impacts of viscous and material damping have been studied. The consequence of alterations of the amplitude of pulsating speed constituent, internal frequency detuning parameter, axial stiffness, and parametric detuning parameter on the vibration responses have been analyzed in detail. The analytic-numeric approach reveals rich and interesting nonlinear phenomena under united parametric and internal resonances in the study of the hinged–clamped beam that are not available in the existing literature.
RepeatsPlus — program for finding motifs and repeats in data sequences
Authors: Jelović Ana
Published: March 2021

Discovering motifs and repeats in data sequences is of great importance in biology and a large number of efficient tools for their finding have been developed. As the number of results found can be very large, our goal is to provide a tool that, on a mathematical basis, can precisely find all motifs and repeats, filter them according to input arguments and output the results in a convenient way. RepeatsPlus is a program that provides statistical filtering according to input sequence length and number of repeat occurrences, motif mask filtering and filtering related to ambiguous letters in input sequence and a large number of other options. RepeatPlus is implemented in Python and C[Formula: see text]. It is freely available for public use. The user manual and examples of usage are also available.
Molecular “Texas Longhorn”: An expanded Schiff base oligopyrrolic macrocycle
Authors: Guo Chenxing , Lynch Vincent M. , Sessler Jonathan L.
Published: March 2021

We report here the synthesis and structural characterization of a novel expanded Schiff base oligopyrrolic macrocycle TxLH ([Formula: see text] compound 2) along with its smaller congener hemi-TxLH ([Formula: see text] compound 1). The solid-state structure of TxLH is reminiscent of the shape of a Texas Longhorn[Formula: see text]. It thus defines a new architectural form for porphyrin analogues. The present study thus underscores the potential of using functionalized oligopyrroles as readily accessible molecular building blocks for the construction of structurally non-trivial molecules.
A New Type of Fuzzy Prime Subset in Ordered Semigroups
Authors: Mahboob Ahsan , Muhiuddin G.
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we first introduce and characterize [Formula: see text]-fuzzy prime subset of the ordered semigroups. Then the [Formula: see text]-lower part of the [Formula: see text]-fuzzy prime subset is defined and its associated properties are studied. Moreover, the intra-regularity of ordered semigroups characterizes in terms of [Formula: see text]-fuzzy prime ideals and their [Formula: see text]-lower parts.
A note on optimal degree-three spanners of the square lattice
Authors: Galant Damien , Pilatte Cédric
Published: March 2021

In this short note, we prove that the degree-three dilation of the square lattice [Formula: see text] is [Formula: see text]. This disproves a conjecture of Dumitrescu and Ghosh. We give a computer-assisted proof of a local-global property for the uncountable set of geometric graphs achieving the optimal dilation.
Pricing options on a mean-reverting asset by the analytical operator splitting method
Authors: Lo C. F. , He Y. W.
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we propose an operator splitting method to valuate options on the inhomogeneous geometric Brownian motion. By exploiting the approximate dynamical symmetry of the pricing equation, we derive a simple closed-form approximate price formula for a European call option which resembles closely the Black–Scholes price formula for a European vanilla call option. Numerical tests show that the proposed method is able to provide very accurate estimates and tight bounds of the exact option prices. The method is very efficient and robust as well.
XPS and ToF-SIMS Investigation of Native Oxides and Passive Films Formed on Nickel Alloys Containing Chromium and Molybdenum
Authors: Wang Zuocheng , Carrière Charly , Seyeux Antoine , Zanna Sandrine , Mercier Dimitri , Marcus Philippe
Published: March 2021

X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy and Time-of-Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry were combined to characterize the surface oxides (native oxides and passive films) formed on Ni-based alloys containing chromium and molybdenum. Two alloys were studied, Ni-20Cr and Ni-20Cr-10Mo (in wt.%). For Ni-20Cr, both native oxide and passive films formed in acidic medium present a duplex structure comprising a Ni and Cr outer hydroxide layer and a Cr inner oxide layer. The Ni-20Cr-10Mo alloy presents a similar bilayer structure, but with Mo oxide located at the outer layer/inner layer interface. Cr enrichment is observed after passivation for both alloys. The corrosion resistance in acidic solution containing chlorides is enhanced by Mo, and by electrochemical pre-passivation in Cl free solution.
Charge Compensation Mechanism and Structural Change of Li-Rich Layered Oxide Li1.23Mn0.46Fe0.15Ni0.15O2 Electrode during Charging and Discharging
Authors: Yuge Ryota , Kuroshima Sadanori , Tabuchi Mitsuharu , Doumae Kyosuke , Shibuya Hideka
Published: March 2021

We investigated changes in the valence and structure of positive electrodes composed of Li-rich layered manganese (Mn) oxides (Li1.23Mn0.46Fe0.15Ni0.15O2, LMFN) when they were charged and discharged. Hard X-ray photoemission spectroscopy (HAXPES) and 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy measurements indicated that charge compensation occurred through changes in the valences of the Mn, Fe, Ni, and oxide ions, from Mn4+, Fe3.2+, Ni3.4+, and O1.78− in the charged state to Mn3.6+, Fe3+, Ni2+, and O2− in the discharged state. Neutron diffraction (ND) measurements indicated the LMFN powder had a layered rock-salt structure. However, reconstruction of the transition metal and oxide ions in the lattice during charging indicated spinel phases made up 17% of the structure, the remaining 83% being layered rock-salt. The oxygen deficiency formed during charging recovered during discharging and the lost oxygen became implanted again in the lattice of the cathode. We believe that the elucidation of the charge compensation mechanism and structural changes during charging and discharging will be useful for designing materials with larger capacity and improved cycle performance.
Analysis of HfO2 Charge Trapping Layer Characteristics After UV Treatment
Authors: Kim Jaemin , Kim Jaeun , Cho Eun-Chel , Yi Junsin
Published: March 2021

The improvement in the charge storage characteristics in a non-volatile memory (NVM) device employing an ultraviolet (UV)-treated hafnium oxide (HfO2) layer as the charge-trapping layer is reported. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis was performed to characterize the Hf 4f and O 1s peaks. The defect densities corresponding to Hf and O after short-term UV treatment are 24.74% and 14.16%, respectively. The electrical characteristics, such as the interface trap density (Dit), dielectric constant, and flat band voltage (VFB), of single HfO2 thin films were determined via capacitance vs voltage (C–V) measurements of the fabricated metal–oxide–semiconductor (MOS) capacitors. Notably, this memory device has a maximum ΔVth of 4.10 V at 15 V, which corresponds to a 33.4% improvement in memory storage characteristics compared to those of an as-deposited HfO2 thin film-based memory. In addition, the charge retention after 10 years is 80.22%, which is superior to that of the as-deposited case. These results demonstrate the possibility of realizing high-efficiency TFT NVM devices using high-K materials, and are expected to enable further research on semiconductor devices using high-K materials as well as next-generation memory semiconductors using UV treatment.
Optimization of Remote Public Medical Emergency Management System with Low Delay Based on Internet of Things
Authors: Feng Yan , Pan Zhongyu
Published: March 2021

Due to the limitation of economic geography condition, the existing health resources distribution is uneven, the emergence of remote medical disciplines perfectly solved this difficult problem, using computer and network communication network on audio video information transmissions, querying, display, storage, and backup and realizing the network of outpatient service, remote consultation, health advice, and other functions. Telemedicine enables the limited available medical resources to be shared and fully utilized and also enables many economically underdeveloped provinces to enjoy a higher level of medical sharing services. Public health emergency management system on the overall design of the low latency according to system function will be based on the Internet of things. The remote public health emergency management system is divided into three subsystems low latency modules, basic subsystems of platform, application platform, and specific application subsystems, and designs the structure of the various modules. The implementation process is given. In the realization of the system, this paper describes in detail how to realize the functions of the public medical low delay emergency management system, and, in the end, the realization process of the system is reasonably summarized. The application of Internet of things technology in regional emergency rescue can realize the identification and real-time positioning of material personnel, the collection and transmission of the wounded’s physiological information, real-time information transmission, and interaction based on mobile handheld devices, as well as the integration of emergency rescue resources, information integration, and command decision-making, so as to assist rescue operations and improve rescue efficiency.
Escherichia coli O157 : H7 from Food of Animal Origin in Arsi: Occurrence at Catering Establishments and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Profile
Authors: Asfaw Geresu Minda , Regassa Shimelis
Published: March 2021

Escherichia coli O157 : H7 (E. coli O157 : H7) has been found to be the major cause of food-borne diseases and a serious public health problem in the world, with an increasing concern for the emergence and spread of antimicrobial-resistant strains. Hitherto, little is known about the carriage of E. coli O157 : H7 and its antimicrobial susceptibility profile in the food of animal origin in Ethiopia. This study aimed to determine the occurrence and multidrug resistance profile of E. coli O157 : H7 from food of animal origin at different catering establishments in the selected study settings of Arsi Zone. One hundred ninety-two animal origin food items, namely, raw/minced meat (locally known as “Kitfo,” “Kurt,” and “Dulet”), raw milk, egg sandwich, and cream cake samples were collected and processed for microbiological detection of E. coli O157 : H7. Out of 192 samples, 2.1% (4/192) were positive for E. coli O157 : H7. Two E. coli O157 : H7 isolates were obtained from “Dulet” (6.3%) followed by “Kurt” (3.1%, 1/32) and raw milk (3.1%, 1/32), whereas no isolate was obtained from “Kitfo,” egg sandwich, and cream cake samples. Of the 4 E. coli O157 : H7 isolates subjected to 10 panels of antimicrobial discs, 3 (75%) were highly resistant to kanamycin, streptomycin, and nitrofurantoin. Besides, all the isolates displayed multidrug resistance phenotypes, 3 to 5 antimicrobial resistance, amid kanamycin, streptomycin, nitrofurantoin, tetracycline, and chloramphenicol. The occurrence of multidrug-resistant E. coli O157 : H7 isolates from foods of animal origin sampled from different catering establishments reveals that the general sanitary condition of the catering establishments, utensils used, and personnel hygienic practices did not comply with the recommended standards. Thus, this finding calls for urgent attention toward appropriate controls and good hygienic practices in different catering establishments dealing with consuming raw/undercooked foods of animal origin.
Health‐Related Quality of Life and Associated Factors among Myocardial Infarction Patients at Cardiac Center, Ethiopia
Authors: Endalew Helen Lamesgin , Liyew Bikis , Baye Zewdu , Ewunetu Tarekegn Gebrekidan
Published: March 2021

Introduction. Myocardial infarction is the most frequent manifestation of coronary heart disease and one of the leading causes of death worldwide. The sudden and often profound physiological and psychological effect of the acute onset of myocardial infarction hurts the health‐related quality of life. Objective. To assess health‐related quality of life and associated factors among myocardial infarction patients at Cardiac Center, Ethiopia, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2020. Method. Institution‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted from April 10 to June 25, 2020, at the Cardiac Center‐Ethiopia, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The sample consisted of 421 myocardial infarction patients. Data were collected through an interviewer‐administered structured questionnaire by using the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire. Samples were selected using a consecutive sampling technique. The linear regression analysis model was fitted using SPSS 26 and STATA 14, and the unstandardized beta (𝛽) coefficient with a 95% confidence interval was used. A p value <0.05 was considered statistically significant for all analyses. Results. The mean score of the overall health‐related quality of life was found to be 49.29 ± 14.83, and the mean score for the physical domain was 47.96 ± 16.50; for the psychological domain, it was 50.91 ± 16.07, and for environmental and social relationship domains, it was 48.30 ± 16.54 and 52.02 ± 24.61, respectively. In the multiple regression analysis, increased age, living in a rural area, heart failure, and hypertension were inversely associated with overall health‐related quality of life, while secondary and higher education were associated with better overall health‐related quality of life. Conclusion. Patients with myocardial infarction at Cardiac Center, Ethiopia, had lower health‐related quality of life. Hence, the finding of this study suggests the implementation of a cardiac rehabilitation program and comprehensive service given by healthcare providers.
Transthoracic Assessment of Coronary Flow Velocity Reserve: A Practical Approach to Diagnostic Testing in Patients with Angina and No Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Bechsgaard Daria Frestad , Prescott Eva
Published: March 2021

More than half of the patients with symptoms suggestive of myocardial ischemia presenting at invasive angiography have no obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD). A large proportion of these patients have ischemia caused by coronary microvascular dysfunction, a condition associated with adverse cardiovascular prognosis. Measurement of coronary flow velocity reserve by transthoracic Doppler echocardiography is a feasible and reproducible method for the evaluation of coronary microvascular function. This review provides a practical overview of the method in a clinical setting of angina and noobstructive CAD, including technical details and prognostic significance.
Nonfragile Estimator Design for Fractional-Order Neural Networks under Event-Triggered Mechanism
Authors: Shao Xiaoguang , Lyu Ming , Zhang Jie
Published: March 2021

This paper is concerned with the nonfragile state estimation for a kind of delayed fractional-order neural network under the event-triggered mechanism (ETM). To reduce the bandwidth occupation of the communication network, the ETM is employed in the sensor-to-estimator channel. Moreover, in order to reflect the reality, the transmission delay is taken into account in the model establishment. Sufficient criteria are supplied to make sure that the augmented system is asymptotically stable by using the fractional-order Lyapunov indirect approach and the linear matrix inequality method. In the end, the theoretical result is shown by means of two numerical examples.
Clinical Outcomes of Dialysis Patients Treated with Drug-Eluting Stent for Left Main Distal Bifurcation Lesions
Authors: Watanabe Yusuke , Mitomo Satoru , Demir Ozan M. , Liu Kuan-Liang , Tung Ying-Chang , Chieffo Alaide , Montorfano Matteo , Chang Chi-Jen , Nakamura Sunao , Colombo Antonio
Published: March 2021

Aims: We assessed clinical outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for unprotected left main coronary artery (ULMCA) distal bifurcation lesions using drug-eluting stents (DES) in hemodialysis (HD) patients compared to non-HD patients. Methods and Results: We identified 1,858 consecutive patients who underwent PCI for ULMCA distal bifurcation lesions at 4 high-volume centers in Japan, Italy, and Taiwan between January 2005 and December 2015. Of them, 1,416 patients were treated with DES including 113 HD patients and 1,303 non-HD patients. The primary end point was target lesion failure (TLF) defined as a composite of cardiac death, target lesion revascularization (TLR), and myocardial infarction. HD patients were more likely to be younger and have diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, peripheral artery disease, lower ejection fraction, and higher EuroSCORE. TLF rate at 3 years was significantly higher in HD group than in non-HD group (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 2.43 [1.75–3.38], p < 0.001). Cardiac mortality and TLR rate were also significantly higher in HD group than in non-HD group (adjusted HR 3.85 [2.34–6.34], p < 0.001, and HR 2.10 [1.41–3.14], p < 0.001, respectively). Conclusions: HD was strongly associated with adverse cardiac events after PCI for ULMCA distal bifurcation lesions with DES.