bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of contact Cauchy–Riemann maps III: Energy, bubbling and Fredholm theory
Authors: Oh Yong-Geun
Published: November 2022

In [Y.-G. Oh and R. Wang, Analysis of contact Cauchy-Riemann maps I: A priori [Formula: see text] estimates and asymptotic convergence, Osaka J. Math. 55(4) (2018) 647–679; Y.-G. Oh and R. Wang, Analysis of contact Cauchy-Riemann maps II: Canonical neighborhoods and exponential convergence for the Morse-Bott case, Nagoya Math. J. 231 (2018) 128–223], the authors studied the nonlinear elliptic system [Formula: see text] without involving symplectization for each given contact triad [Formula: see text], and established the a priori [Formula: see text] elliptic estimates and proved the asymptotic (subsequence) convergence of the map [Formula: see text] for any solution, called a contact instanton, on [Formula: see text] under the hypothesis [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. The asymptotic limit of a contact instanton is a ‘spiraling’ instanton along a ‘rotating’ Reeb orbit near each puncture on a punctured Riemann surface [Formula: see text]. Each limiting Reeb orbit carries a ‘charge’ arising from the integral of [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we further develop analysis of contact instantons, especially the [Formula: see text] estimate for [Formula: see text] (or the [Formula: see text]-estimate), which is essential for the study of compactification of the moduli space and the relevant Fredholm theory for contact instantons. In particular, we define a Hofer-type off-shell energy [Formula: see text] for any pair [Formula: see text] with a smooth map [Formula: see text] satisfying [Formula: see text], and develop the bubbling-off analysis and prove an [Formula: see text]-regularity result. We also develop the relevant Fredholm theory and carry out index calculations (for the case of vanishing charge).
Ultra-fast charge-discharge and high-energy storage performance realized in K0.5Na0.5NbO3-Bi(Mn0.5Ni0.5)O3 ceramics
Authors: Nie Xinru , He Yan , Shi Qiangqiang , Liang Yuqian , Wei Lingling , Liang Pengfei , Chao Xiaolian , Hu Guoxin , Yang Zupei
Published: November 2022

Lead-free relaxor ceramics (1 − [Formula: see text])K[Formula: see text]Na[Formula: see text]NbO3 − [Formula: see text]Bi(Mn[Formula: see text]Ni[Formula: see text])O3 ((1 − [Formula: see text] )KNN- [Formula: see text]BMN) with considerable charge–discharge characteristics and energy storage properties were prepared by a solid state method. Remarkable, a BMN doping level of 0.04, 0.96KNN–0.04BMN ceramic obtained good energy storage performance with acceptable energy storage density [Formula: see text][Formula: see text] of 1.826 J/cm3 and energy storage efficiency [Formula: see text] of 77.4%, as well as good frequency stability (1–500 Hz) and fatigue resistance (1–5000 cycles). Meanwhile, a satisfactory charge–discharge performance with power density [Formula: see text][Formula: see text] [Formula: see text] 98.90 MW/cm3, discharge time [Formula: see text][Formula: see text] < 70 ns and temperature stability (30–180∘C) was obtained in 0.96KNN–0.04BMN ceramic. The small grain size ([Formula: see text]150 nm) and the high polarizability of Bi[Formula: see text] are directly related to its good energy storage capacity. This work proposes a feasible approach for lead-free KNN-based ceramics to achieve high-energy storage and ultra-fast charge–discharge performance as well as candidate materials for the application of advanced high-temperature pulse capacitors.
First Lunar Occultation Results with the TIRCAM2 Near-Infrared Imager at the Devasthal 3.6-m Telescope
Authors: Sharma Saurabh , Richichi Andrea , Ojha Devendra K. , Kumar Brajesh , Naik Milind , Rawat Jeewan , Bora Darshan S. , Belwal Kuldeep , Dhami Prakash , Bisht Mohit
Published: November 2022

TIRCAM2 is the facility near-infrared Imager at the Devasthal 3.6-m telescope in northern India, equipped with an Aladdin III InSb array detector. We have pioneered the use of TIRCAM2 for very fast photometry, with the aim of recording Lunar Occultations (LO). This mode is now operational and publicly offered. In this paper, we describe the relevant instrumental details, provide references to the LO method and the underlying data analysis procedures, and list the LO events recorded so far. Among the results, we highlight a few which have led to the measurement of one small-separation binary star and of two stellar angular diameters. We conclude with a brief outlook on further possible instrumental developments and an estimate of the scientific return. In particular, we find that the LO technique can detect sources down to [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]mag with [Formula: see text] on the Devasthal Optical Telescope telescope. Angular diameters larger than [Formula: see text] milliarcsecond (mas) could be measured with SNR above 10, or [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]mag. These numbers are only an indication and will depend strongly on observing conditions such as lunar phase and rate of lunar limb motion. Based on statistics alone, there are several thousands LO events observable in principle with the given telescope and instrument every year.
Data Mining for Estimating the Impact of Physical Activity Levels on the Health-Related Well-Being
Authors: Saâdaoui Foued , Rabbouch Hana , Dutheil Fréderic , Bertrand Pierre R. , Boudet Gil , Rouffiac Karine , Chamoux Alain
Published: November 2022

The main objective of this paper is to employ some multifactorial data mining techniques for studying the direct and indirect effects of the physical activity intensity on persons’ health-related well-being. The availability of such a data-driven modeling and simulation interface enables analysts and decision makers to boost their decision by better understanding the types and levels of relationships between the main factors promoting the well-being of individuals. The data mining investigation is conducted at the CHU Gabriel Montpied (Clermont-Ferrand, France) on a population of employees, composed of medical and nonmedical staff. An observation-like study is conducted with the main aim of assessing direct and indirect effects of the physical activity intensity on the population’s health. This is especially performed by examining the significance of associations between physical activity indices and a set of their medical records. One of the main models resulting from data mining in this paper links cardiovascular risks to a set of exogenous variables including work and sport activity indices. The empirical results are consistent with many recent findings emphasizing the role of increasing high and intermediate levels of physical activity among health public-sector employees to effectively fight some diabetic and cardiovascular diseases.
Comparison of limit shapes for Bernoulli first-passage percolation
Authors: Kubota Naoki , Takei Masato
Published: November 2022

We consider Bernoulli first-passage percolation on the  [Formula: see text]-dimensional hypercubic lattice with  [Formula: see text]. The passage time of edge  [Formula: see text] is 0 with probability  [Formula: see text] and 1 with probability  [Formula: see text], independently of each other. Let  [Formula: see text] be the critical probability for percolation of edges with passage time 0. When  [Formula: see text], there exists a nonrandom, nonempty compact convex set  [Formula: see text] such that the set of vertices to which the first-passage time from the origin is within  [Formula: see text] is well approximated by  [Formula: see text] for all large  [Formula: see text], with probability one. The aim of this paper is to prove that for  [Formula: see text], the Hausdorff distance between  [Formula: see text] and  [Formula: see text] grows linearly in  [Formula: see text]. Moreover, we mention that the approach taken in the paper provides a lower bound for the expected size of the intersection of geodesics, that gives a nontrivial consequence for the critical case.
Sputtered (Fe,Mn)3O4 Spinel Oxide Thin Films for Micro-Supercapacitor
Authors: Jolayemi Bukola , Buvat Gaetan , Brousse Thierry , Roussel Pascal , Lethien Christophe
Published: November 2022

The scaling up of wireless operating microelectronics for upcoming Internet of Things (IoT) applications demands high-performance micro-supercapacitors (MSCs) with corresponding high-energy and power capabilities. Indeed, this necessitates the quest for MSC’s electrode materials capable of delivering high energy density at high charge/discharge rates. Many multicationic oxides, such as spinel manganese-iron compounds, demonstrate good pseudocapacitive properties as positive electrodes in conventional supercapacitors. However, fulfilling the required fabrication techniques is a challenge for their applications in MSCs. Hence, this study, for the first time, demonstrates the successful deposition of spinel Mn-Fe thin films on a functional platinum-based current collector. The deposition is achieved in a reactive oxygen environment via reactive DC magnetron sputtering techniques and subsequently annealed ex situ at 600 °C in a nitrogen environment. The electrochemical signature in neutral 1 M Na2SO4 aqueous electrolyte is comparable to those reported for spinel type Mn-Fe bulk counterparts. The areal capacitance at 10 mV.s−1 is 15.5 mF.cm−2 for 1 μm thick film, exhibiting excellent coulombic efficiency (close to 100%) and long-term cycle stability after 10,000 cycles. Thus, the synthesis of the multicationic pseudocapacitive oxides via compatible microelectronic deposition methods has set a prospective path to achieve very high-performance MSCs for future IoT applications.
Polymer-Supported Aqueous Electrolytes for Lithium Ion Batteries: I. Application of a Thermoconductometric Method to a LiTFSI + H2O + PDA Electrolyte System
Authors: Ding Michael S. , Cresce Arthur V. , Eidson Nico , Xu Kang
Published: November 2022

A thermoconductometric method, with a uniquely designed sample cell and an in situ polymerization procedure, was applied to a polymer-supported aqueous electrolyte of wPDA + (1−w)LiTFSI21mH2O, where w is in mass fraction, PDA stands for a monomer of poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate of Mn 575, and LiTFSI21mH2O denotes a 21 m aqueous solution of lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide. The thermoconductometry curves of temperature differential, Δθ, and conductivity, κ, were collected for these samples in the w range of (0, 0.5) and θ range of (−70, 60) °C. The Δθ curves yielded a partial phase diagram revealing a high degree of compatibility between PDA and LiTFSI21mH2O, and the κ curves formed for the unpolymerized and polymerized electrolytes a pair of data sets which were fitted to yield a pair of κ(w, θ) functions for the definition of a conductivity loss function upon polymerization. This function showed that a significant portion of the conductivity was retained upon polymerization in a large part of the (w, θ) space, where a safe and robust electrolyte with a decent conductivity could be formulated. Molecular and thermodynamic considerations were applied to correlate and discuss the results of the Δθ and κ measurements.
Effect of the Indium Compositions in Tri-Gate InxGa1−xAs HEMTs for High-Frequency Low Noise Application
Authors: Wang Chun , Kuo Che-Ning , Lin Yueh-Chin , Hsu Heng-Tung , Tsao Yi-Fan , Lee Ching-Ting , Chang Edward Yi
Published: November 2022

In this paper, we investigated the tri-gate InxGa1−xAs high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) with different indium compositions for low noise applications. The tri-gate configuration in this work exhibits better device performances of the transconductance (gm), the current gain cutoff frequency (fT), the maximum oscillation frequency (fmax), and the minimum noise figure compared with the conventional planar structure due to the improved gate controllability. The indium contents of 20%, 40%, and 100% tri-gate devices were also fabricated for comparison. The resistances and leakage current were measured to investigate the effect between the indium compositions and the noise figure. Experimental results exhibited that the tri-gate In0.4Ga0.6As mHEMT with neither the highest transconductance nor the lowest gate leakage current exhibited the lowest minimum noise figure (NFmin) of 2 dB when operating at 50 GHz. The study reveals that device architecture and indium composition are important factors in the determination of noise performance.
Identifying Hypocalcemia in Dairy Cattle by Combining 3D Printing and Paper Diagnostics
Authors: Mamaril Art Matthew , Glasco Dalton L. , Leal Yepes Francisco A. , Bell Jeffrey G.
Published: November 2022

This paper describes the design, fabrication, and validation of a paper-based diagnostic device for the rapid diagnosis of hypocalcemia in dairy cattle at the point-of-care (POC). The device incorporates a 3D printed calcium ion-selective membrane (ISM) as the sensing element for free—unbound—calcium in real bovine whole blood samples. With a linear response range of 100 mM to 97.7 μM, the sensor covers the clinically relevant concentrations of Ca2+ associated with both healthy cattle as well as those suffering from hypocalcemia. The components of the Ca2+ ion-selective electrodes were successfully translated to a paper-based device to provide a sensing platform that is simple to use, disposable, and low-cost, and is therefore well-situated for applications at the POC. The paper-based calcium sensor showed a Nernstian response between 10 mM and 100 μM and required only 12 μl of sample to perform a measurement, which can be accomplished in less than two minutes without the need for time-consuming separation steps. The performance of the paper-based Ca2+ sensor was validated using the commercially available epoc® Blood Analysis System, which provided results within 5% of the data obtained with 3D printed Ca2+-ISM integrated paper-based device.
USING A CLASSICAL POROUS MEDIA TWO PHASE FLOW MODEL TO STUDY ELECTROLYTE WETTING OF LITHIUM-ION SINGLE LAYER POUCH CELLS
Authors: Dees Dennis
Published: November 2022

The method of standard contact porosimetry was utilized to establish electrode and separator pore size distribution and electrolyte wetting parameters for a single layer lithium-ion pouch cell. A classical two phase flow model was developed to examine the complete cell electrolyte wetting process. The modeling indicates that reaching greater than 90% saturation of the porosity by the end of the formation protocol is easily accomplished. Completely filling all porosity is shown to be more of a challenge. Because the electrolyte tends to build up at the edges of the cell first, the process slows dramatically at high saturation levels. Further, this situation can result in possibly trapping a small amount of gas in the pores. Simulations with an electrochemical model applied to the edge of the pouch cell indicates there is a correlation between the nonuniform wetting of the pores and observed lithium plating patterns.
A Novel Prognostic Chemokine-Related lncRNAs Signature Associated with Immune Landscape in Colon Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Dai Xinglong , Zeng Menghua , Huang Zhen , Zhang Jun , Wei Zhengqiang , Wang Ziwei
Published: November 2022

Chemokines have been reported to be involved in tumorigenesis and progression and can also modulate the tumor microenvironment. However, it is still unclear whether chemokine-related long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) can affect the prognosis of colon adenocarcinoma (COAD). We summarized chemokine-related genes and downloaded RNA-seq and clinical data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. A total of 52 prognostic chemokine-related lncRNAs were screened by univariate Cox regression analysis; patients were grouped according to cluster analysis results. Lasso regression analysis was applied to determine chemokine-related lncRNAs to construct a risk model for further research. This study first investigated the differences between the prognosis and immune status of two chemokine-related lncRNAs clusters by consensus clustering. Then, using various algorithms, we obtained ten chemokine-related lncRNAs to construct a new prognostic chemokine-related lncRNAs risk model. The risk model’s predictive efficiency, validity, and accuracy were further validated and determined in the test and training cohorts. Furthermore, this risk model played a vital role in predicting immune cell infiltration, immune checkpoint gene expression, tumor mutational burden (TMB), immunotherapy score, and drug sensitivity in COAD patients. These findings elucidated the critical role of novel prognostic chemokine-related lncRNAs in prognosis, immune landscape, and drug therapy, thereby providing valuable insights for prognosis assessment and personalized treatment strategies for COAD patients.
Novel Antibody Exerts Antitumor Effect through Downregulation of CD147 and Activation of Multiple Stress Signals
Authors: Fukuchi Keisuke , Nanai Kayoko , Yuita Hiroshi , Maru Chikako , Tsukada Jun , Ishigami Masato , Nagai Yoko , Nakano Yoko , Yoshimura Chigusa , Yoneda Kozo , Amano Masato , Nakamura Kensuke , Oda Yoko , Nishigohri Haruyuki , Yamamoto Shoji , Ohnishi-Totoki Yusuke , Inaki Koichiro , Komori Hironobu , Nakano Rika , Kanari Yoshiyuki , Nishida Atsuko , Matsui Yumi , Funo Satoko , Takahashi Sayako , Ohtsuka Toshiaki , Agatsuma Toshinori
Published: November 2022

CD147 is an immunoglobulin-like receptor that is highly expressed in various cancers and involved in the growth, metastasis, and activation of inflammatory pathways via interactions with various functional molecules, such as integrins, CD44, and monocarboxylate transporters. Through screening of CD147-targeting antibodies with antitumor efficacy, we discovered a novel rat monoclonal antibody #147D. This humanized IgG4-formatted antibody, h4#147D, showed potent antitumor efficacy in xenograft mouse models harboring the human PDAC cell line MIA PaCa-2, HCC cell line Hep G2, and CML cell line KU812, which featured low sensitivity to the corresponding standard-of-care drugs (gemcitabine, sorafenib, and imatinib, respectively). An analysis of tumor cells derived from MIA PaCa-2 xenograft mice treated with h4#147D revealed that cell surface expression of CD147 and its binding partners, including CD44 and integrin α3β1/α6β1, was significantly reduced by h4#147D. Inhibition of focal adhesion kinase (FAK), activation of multiple stress responsible signal proteins such as c-JunN-terminal kinase (JNK) and mitogen-activated protein kinase p38 (p38MAPK), and expression of SMAD4, as well as activation of caspase-3 were obviously observed in the tumor cells, suggesting that h4#147D induced tumor shrinkage by inducing multiple stress responsible signals. These results suggest that the anti-CD147 antibody h4#147D offers promise as a new antibody drug candidate.
Incorporating Traffic Flow Model into A Deep Learning Method for Traffic State Estimation: A Hybrid Stepwise Modeling Framework
Authors: Pan Yuyan Annie , Guo Jifu , Chen Yanyan , Li Siyang , Li Wenhao
Published: November 2022

Traffic state estimation (TSE), which reconstructs the traffic variables (e.g., speed, flow) on road segments using partially observed data, plays an essential role in intelligent transportation systems. Generally, traffic estimation problems can be divided into two categories: model-driven approaches and data-driven approaches. The model-driven method is commonly used to solve TSE efficiently and calibrate the parameters of these models. The data-driven method requires a large amount of historical observed traffic data in order to improve performance accurately. In order to combine the advantages of model-driven and data-driven methods, this paper proposed a hybrid framework incorporating the traffic flow model into deep learning (TFMDL) modeling that contains both model-driven and data-driven components. This paper focuses on highway TSE with observed data from loop detectors. We build a hybrid cost function to adjust the weights of model-driven and data-driven proportions. We then evaluate the proposed framework using the open-access performance measurement system (PMS) dataset on a corridor of US I-405 in Los Angeles, California. The experimental results show the advantages of the proposed TFMDL approach in performing better than several benchmark models in terms of estimation accuracy and data efficiency.
An UPLC-Q-TOF/MS-Based Analysis of the Differential Composition of Dendrobium officinale in Different Regions
Authors: He Qianqian , Lu Anjing , Qin Lin , Zhang Qianru , Lu Yanliu , Yang Zhou , Tan Daopeng , He Yuqi
Published: November 2022

Dendrobium officinale (D. officinale) is a valuable traditional Chinese herbal medicine with high commercial value. In Chinese Pharmacopoeia (Ch.P., 2020 edition), the quality of D. officinale is mainly evaluated by its polysaccharide content. However, varying growth and production conditions, such as cultivation environment, origin, harvesting process, or processing methods, resulting in highly variable yields, quality, and composition. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the content of secondary metabolites in D. officinale from different origins is consistent with the polysaccharide content. The results showed that the polysaccharide content and pass rate were ranked as GX > AH > GZ > YN. Based on the nontargeted metabolomics approach, we searched for differential components in 22 different regions of D. officinale, including amides, bibenzyls, disaccharide, flavonoids, organic nitrogenous compounds, and phenolic glycosides. The overall expression was opposite to the polysaccharide, and the most expressed was YN, followed by GZ, AH, and GX. These results indicated that the current quality standard for evaluating the quality of D. officinale by polysaccharide content alone is imperfect, and small molecule compounds need to be included as quality markers.
Nomogram for Predicting Postoperative Portal Venous Systemic Thrombosis in Patients with Cirrhosis Undergoing Splenectomy and Esophagogastric Devascularization
Authors: Chen Miao , Han Jian-Bo , Zhang Jia-Kang , Shu Qing-Hua , Zhang Yu-Feng , Yi Yong-Xiang
Published: November 2022

Objectives. The aim of the study is to develop a nomogram for predicting postoperative portal venous systemic thrombosis (PVST) in patients with cirrhosis undergoing splenectomy and esophagogastric devascularization. Methods. In total, 195 eligible patients were included. Demographic characteristics were collected, and the results of perioperative routine laboratory investigations and ultrasound examinations were also recorded. Blood cell morphological traits, including the red cell volume distribution width (RDW), mean platelet volume, and platelet distribution width, were identified. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were implemented for risk factor filtration, and an integrated nomogram was generated and then validated using the bootstrap method. Results. A color Doppler abdominal ultrasound examination on a postoperative day (POD) 7 (38.97%) revealed that 76 patients had PVST. The results of the multivariate logistic regression suggested that a higher RDW on POD3 (RDW3) (odds ratio (OR): 1.188, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.073–1.326), wider portal vein diameter (OR: 1.387, 95% CI: 1.203–1.642), history of variceal hemorrhage (OR: 3.407, 95% CI: 1.670–7.220), and longer spleen length (OR: 1.015, 95% CI: 1.001–1.029) were independent risk parameters for postoperative PVST. Moreover, the nomogram integrating these four parameters exhibited considerable capability in PVST forecasting. The nomogram’s receiver operating characteristic curve reached 0.83 and achieved a sensitivity and specificity of 0.711 and 0.848, respectively, at its cutoff. The nomogram’s calibration curve demonstrated that it was well calibrated. Conclusion. The nomogram exhibited excellent performance in PVST prediction and might assist surgeons in identifying vulnerable patients and administering timely prophylaxis.
Experimental Determination of the Effect of Time of Exposure to Heat on Erosion Development in Different Soil Types
Authors: Arinze Emmanuel Emeka , Ekwueme Benjamin Nnamdi , Obimba-Wogu Jesuborn , Okeke Ifedirichukwu Samuel
Published: November 2022

Tropical forests are increasingly exposed to devastating bushfires, leading to increased erosion. This work involves the study of the effect of exposure to heat on erosion development. Four different soil samples from the study area were used for the study. In this study, the postfire impacts of a laboratory fire representing a bushfire and a subsequent rainfall simulation experiment representing postfire rainfall were compared to evaluate the short-term impact of fire on heated bare soil. Laboratory observations show that bushfire or wildfire affects the erodibility of different types of soil. When the soil under consideration contains a meaningful amount of clay, initial exposure to heat tends to cement the soil sample, because clay minerals harden on exposure to bush burning. However, it is generally observed that at 6 hours of exposure to burning, the cementation is adversely affected, leading to increased soil loss.
Risk of Severe Illness and Risk Factors of Outcomes of COVID-19 in Hospitalized Patients with Chronic Liver Disease in a Major U. S. Hospital Network
Authors: Krishnan Arunkumar , Prichett Laura , Liu Yisi , Ting Peng-sheng , Alqahtani Saleh A. , Kim Amy K. , Ma Michelle , Hamilton James P. , Woreta Tinsay A. , Chen Po-Hung
Published: November 2022

Background and Aim. Underlying comorbidities are an emerging risk factor for more severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, its impact on patients with chronic liver disease (CLD) remains unclear. In addition, there is a paucity of data about whether patients with CLD have an increased risk of requiring intensive care, vasopressor support, or mechanical ventilation (MV). This study aimed to evaluate the impact of pre-existing LD on the clinical outcome of hospitalized patients with COVID-19. Methods. We studied 2731 patients with known CLD who were hospitalized at the Johns Hopkins Health System with COVID-19 between March 1, 2020, and December 15, 2021. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality, and secondary outcomes were MV and vasopressors. Multivariable Cox regression models were performed to explore factors associated with the outcomes. Results. Overall, 80.1% had severe COVID-19, all-cause mortality was 8.9%, 12.8% required MV, and 11.2% received vasopressor support. Older patients with underlying comorbidities were more likely to have severe COVID-19. There was association between elevated aminotransferases and total bilirubin with more severe COVID-19. Hepatic decompensation was independently associated with all-cause mortality (HR 2.94; 95% CI 1.23–7.06). Alcohol-related liver disease (ALD, HR 2.79, 95% CI, 1.00–8.02) was independently associated with increased risk for MV, and independent factors related to vasopressor support were chronic pulmonary disease and underlying malignancy. Conclusions. COVID-19 infection in patients with CLD is associated with poor outcomes. SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with hepatic decompensation was associated with an increased risk of in-hospital mortality hazard, and ALD among patients with COVID-19 was associated with an increased hazard for MV.
Subcutaneous Panniculitis-like T-Cell Lymphoma with a Transformation to Lupus Erythematosus Panniculitis: A Case Report
Authors: Tawanwongsri Weeratian , Thongsroy Jirapan
Published: November 2022

Subcutaneous panniculitis-like T-cell lymphoma (SPTCL) is a rare primary cutaneous lymphoma characterized by infiltration of the subcutaneous tissue by neoplastic cytotoxic T cells mimicking panniculitis. There is a strong association between SPTCL and lupus erythematosus panniculitis (LEP). However, patients who were diagnosed with LEP with a preceding diagnosis of SPTCL have been scarcely reported. We herein reported a 21-year-old Thai woman presenting to a dermatology clinic for evaluation of a 1-month history of a painful mass on the right buttock and bilateral upper eyelid swelling. A subcutaneous mass which was 5 by 2 cm in diameter, tender, firm, and fixed with a smooth surface was palpated over the upper outer quadrant of her right gluteal area. After a diagnosis of SPTCL had been made based on the histological and immunohistochemical studies, treatment with oral dexamethasone and ciclosporin A was initially started. Because of intolerance to adverse reactions of dexamethasone, only ciclosporin A was given. Improvement was not achieved at 6-month follow-up. She then underwent the re-incisional biopsy at the same gluteal area and the histological features were consistent with LEP. After hydroxychloroquine was given, the lesion resolved within 3 months, and no recurrence was detected during the following 6-month follow-up. We emphasize that long-term follow-up of patients with SPTCL is required. Additionally, in case of poor response to the given treatment, a repeat skin biopsy should be considered in order to determine the proper management.
Rhabdomyolysis after COVID-19 Comirnaty Vaccination: A Case Report
Authors: Ruijters Veerle J. , van der Meulen Marjon F.G. , van Es Michael A. , Smit Tessa , Hoogendijk Jessica E.
Published: November 2022

Rhabdomyolysis is an acute disruption in skeletal muscle integrity, leading to the rapid release of 4 muscle contents into the bloodstream, such as creatine kinase (CK). It can have various causes, including infections. Throughout the pandemic, multiple cases of rhabdomyolysis following COVID-19 infections have been reported. However, rhabdomyolysis subsequent to COVID-19 vaccinations appears to be relatively rare. Here, we report such a case after a second COVID-19 Comirnaty (BioNTech/Pfizer) vaccination. Our patient developed rhabdomyolysis 1 day after the second Comirnaty vaccination with high creatine kinase (CK) levels, generalized weakness, and kidney failure. CK levels and muscle weakness resolved after treatment with intravenous fluids, but unfortunately, he remained hemodialysis dependent after discharge. To our knowledge, this is one of the first case reports describing a patient with rhabdomyolysis after a Comirnaty vaccination. However, as millions of people have received the Comirnaty vaccine, it is unclear whether the rhabdomyolysis in our patient is a rare side effect or an unrelated, coincidental event. Large observational studies are needed to elucidate the causality between the Comirnaty vaccination and rhabdomyolysis. Awareness is warranted in patients with myalgia and muscle weakness shortly after COVID-19 vaccination, in order to initiate treatment early and prevent life-threatening complications.
STAS beim NSCLC: Risikomarker für Rezidiv und Prognose?
Authors: Schumann Christian
Published: November 2022

Background: Percutaneous needle biopsy (PNB) and bronchoscopic biopsy (BB) are widely used in the preoperative diagnosis of pulmonary nodules, but whether PNB or BB may cause tumor spread through air spaces (STAS) has not been reported. Methods: 433 postoperative patients with pathological stage I non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) from January 2015 to December 2018 at our hospital were enrolled and divided into PNB group (n = 40), BB group (n = 48) and non-biopsy group (n = 345). The PNB and BB groups were matched using propensity score matched (PSM) separately from the non-biopsy group, after which the effects of PNB and BB on STAS, recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) were assessed. Results: After PSM for 9 confounding factors (gender, age, smoking history, tumor site, scope of surgery, pathology type, stage, maximum tumor diameter and postoperative treatment), 38 cases in the PNB group were successfully matched with 38 cases in the non-biopsy group and 28 cases in the BB group were successfully matched with 28 cases in the non-biopsy group. After PSM, there was no significant difference in the incidence of STAS between the PNB and non-biopsy groups (42.1% vs. 34.2%, P > 0.05) and between the BB and non-biopsy groups (42.9% vs. 46.4%, P > 0.05). The results after PSM showed no significant effect of both PNB and BB on RFS and OS after radical surgery (P > 0.05). Conclusion: Preoperative biopsy in patients with stage I NSCLC has not been shown to increase the occurrence of STAS, nor postoperative recurrence and death.
"History of the Siege of Lisbon" - a different (hi)story
Authors: Ivandic Nathalie , Barata Eduarda Gil Lopes
Published: November 2022

Using José Saramago's (1922-2010) novel "The history of the siege of Lisbon" (1989) as a model and example, this article attempts to demonstrate the function of multiperspective narrative structures in metahistoriographical novels, making reference to Vera and Ansgar Nünning. It discusses the problem of supposed objectivity in history studies and the invisibility of marginalised groups, who should no longer be exclusively the focus of the description, but finally also the describers. It also takes a brief digression on Hayden White's argument on the relationship between literature and historiography. By analysing the structure of perspective and by looking at the means of irony in the novel, the article aims to show how far it critically addresses these problems. It concludes that it is necessary to replace the collective singular of history (according to Reinhart Koselleck) with a more pluralistic understanding of history(-ies).
Attenuated Relationships Between Indexes of Volume Overload and Atrial Natriuretic Peptide in Uncontrolled, Sustained Volume-Dependent Primary Hypertension
Authors: Yusuf Suraj M. , Norton Gavin R. , Peterson Vernice R. , Malan Nico , Gomes Monica , Mthembu Nonhlanhla , Libhaber Carlos D. , Tade Grace , Bello Hamza , Bamaiyi Adamu J. , Mmopi Keneilwe N. , Peters Ferande , Sareli Pinhas , Dessein Patrick H. , Woodiwiss Angela J.
Published: November 2022

Background:

Whether systolic blood pressure (SBP) control in sustained volume-dependent primary hypertension is associated with blunted ANP (atrial natriuretic peptide) relationships with indexes of volume load is unknown.

Methods:

Systemic hemodynamics (central pressure, echocardiographic aortic velocity and diameter measurements in the outflow tract), circulating ANP concentrations (ELISA assays) and glomerular and tubular function (24-hour urine collections [n=519]) were determined in a community of African ancestry (n=772).

Results:

As compared with those with a controlled SBP, those with an uncontrolled SBP (n=198) showed lower ANP concentrations (
P
<0.005) despite higher stroke volume and cardiac output (
P
<0.0001) and renal differences consistent with enhanced fluid retention. In those with a controlled SBP, fractional Na
+
excretion (FeNa
+
;
P
<0.0005) and creatinine clearance (glomerular filtration rate;
P
<0.005) were inversely associated with ANP concentrations independent of confounders. Moreover, in those with a controlled SBP, stroke volume and cardiac output (
P
<0.0001) were independently and positively associated with ANP concentrations. In addition, in those with a controlled SBP, ANP concentrations were independently and inversely associated with systemic vascular resistance (SVR;
P
<0.0001) and aortic characteristic impedance (Zc;
P
<0.005). By contrast, in those with uncontrolled SBP, no relationships between either stroke volume (
P
>0.25), cardiac output (
P
>0.29), FeNa
+
(
P
>0.77), or glomerular filtration rate (
P
>0.47) and ANP concentrations were noted. Furthermore, in those with an uncontrolled SBP, no relationships between ANP concentrations and SVR or Zc were observed (
P
>0.34).

Conclusions:

In a population where primary hypertension is strongly volume-dependent, those with an uncontrolled SBP have an attenuated relationship between ANP and both renal and hemodynamic indexes of volume overload and the vascular effects of ANP.
To Be or Not To Be?
Authors: Hardie Sophie , Titov Elena
Published: November 2022

This squib accounts for the inconsistencies in the occurrence of genitive of negation with the Russian verb byt’ ‘to be’ and other genitive verbs by distinguishing two independent lexical entries for byt’ with a specified location that have differing syntactic and semantic characteristics. One is predicative/argument-taking, while the other is the copula in a copular construction with a locational prepositional predicate. Sentential negation invariably assigns genitive of negation to the grammatical subject of the copular construction, whereas the subject of predicative byt’ is in the wrong syntactic configuration to receive genitive of negation and therefore receives nominative case via agreement with the finite Infl.
Associations between spectral properties, bacteriological characteristics, chlorophyll and zooplankton communities in two north Patagonian lakes
Authors: De los Rios-Escalante Patricio , Contreras Angel , Lara Gladys , Latsague Mirtha , Esse Carlos
Published: November 2022

The Chilean north Patagonian lakes are characterized by their marked oligotrophic or oligomesotrophic status and low abundance of zooplankton species; many of the lakes with oligomesotrophic status are associated with human intervention due to towns on their shores. The aim of the present study was to determine the relations between spectral properties (LANDSAT OLI), chlorophyll and plankton abundances in two north Patagonian lakes: Villarrica, which has two towns on its shores, and Lake Caburgua, which has native forest on its shores. The results revealed that Lake Villarrica has high reflectance in the near infrared, red and green bands, high concentrations of chlorophyll a, the absence of mixotrophic protozoa, and a high abundance of bacterial and plankton, mainly phytoplankton (Chlophyceae and diatoms) and zooplankton. Lake Caburgua, on the other hand, has low reflectance in the same bands, and low chlorophyll concentrations, low bacterial and zooplankton abundances, with the exception of high mixotrophic ciliates and small phytoplankton, and Volvox colonies. The obtained results agree with limnological observations on both lakes, and observations agrees with similar observations of the spectral properties of glacial north Patagonian lakes and of the zooplankton community, and in this scenario, the use of remote-sensing techniques would be a good tool to predict the plankton community in Patagonian lakes.
Contributions to the knowledge of the Cicadellini sharpshooters (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) associated with citrus orchards in Argentina
Authors: DEFEA BÁRBARA , VIRLA EDUARDO G. , LOGARZO GUILLERMO A. , CAVICHIOLI RODNEY R. , TAPIA SILVIA , AGUIRRE MÁXIMO R. , KAY FERNANDO MC , MARTIN SANTIAGO , PARADELL SUSANA L.
Published: November 2022

Xylella fastidiosa Wells et al. is a xylem-borne bacterium that causes some of the most important plant diseases to woody plants such as citrus, olives, almonds and other cultures. This pathogen is mainly transmitted by sharpshooters, among which the tribe Cicadellini (Cicadellinae) includes the largest number of proven vectors. The correct identification of the vectors, along with biological and phenological information, are necessary to identify the key vectors involved in the spread of the bacterium and, consequently, establish control strategies and evaluate risks at a local or regional scale. However, lack of information on the Cicadellini from Argentina has delayed the implementation of control measures. Based on surveys conducted in the main citrus producing areas along with bibliographic data, this contribution provides the first list of Cicadellini species from Argentina that are potential vectors of X. fastidiosa; an identification key to these sharpshooters is provided. Twelve species were recorded from northeastern citrus groves, while from northwestern orchards, with previous information totally absent, 10 species were recorded. Eight species are shared by all producing regions, and five of them are proven vectors of X. fastidiosa (Bucephalogonia xanthophis (Berg), Dilobopterus costalimai Young, Macugonalia cavifrons (Stål), M. leucomelas (Walker), Sonesimia grossa (Signoret)). This contribution provides 22 new insect-plant relationships, information on their natural enemies, the geographic distribution of all species is broadened and the female genitalia of three proven vectors are described for the first time.
Out-of-school health education for adolescents: Exploring the impact of a hospital visit
Authors: Bayırlı Hakan , Coşkun Keskin Sevgi , Keskin Yusuf
Published: November 2022

Objectives:

Adolescence is a critical phase of life, involving both risks and opportunities. Preventive health services in this phase contribute to the development of adolescents’ models for adulthood. The current study aimed to illuminate adolescents’ experiences regarding health education through a patient visit in a hospital, which provides a more informal learning environment than classroom instruction.

Design:

Qualitative one group experimental design.

Setting:

Participants were 16 high school students of a medium-level socio-economic status in Turkey, some of whom smoked cigarettes.

Method:

We visited patients in the pulmonology inpatient unit with the students. Data were collected through interviews, video recordings and field notes. Data were analyses using content analysis in which coding schemes are developed directly from the textual data to focus in on students’ health beliefs.

Results:

Findings revealed that the students who interacted face-to-face with patients and listened to their reflections on their illness and life experienced changes in their health beliefs. The visit provided moral support for the patients as well.

Conclusion:

Results indicate that such hospital patient visits offer significant opportunities for health education.
Bottom-line mentality from a goal-shielding perspective: Does bottom-line mentality explain the link between rewards and pro-self unethical behavior?
Authors: Mawritz Mary B , Farro Andrea C , Kim Joongseo , Greenbaum Rebecca L , Wang Cynthia S , Bonner Julena M
Published: November 2022

We extend research on goal-contingent rewards and bottom-line mentality (BLM) by drawing on goal-shielding theory to examine BLM as a goal-shielding process that explains the link between goal-contingent rewards and pro-self, unethical behavior. We also examine future orientation as a first- and second-stage moderator and suggest that the detrimental effects of goal-contingent rewards and subsequent BLMs are weakened for employees who have high future orientations. We tested our hypotheses with two field studies and found general support for our predictions. Overall, our findings suggest rewards that are contingent on goal attainment prompt organizational members to solely focus on their bottom-line outcomes, which in turn drives their pro-self, unethical behaviors, but these indirect effects are less likely for those who are high on future orientation, because they approach their work with a longer-term perspective. The theoretical and practical implications of this research are discussed.
Performance optimization of the active noise control algorithm based on logarithmic function and its application in secondary channel online identification ANC system
Authors: Zhang Xiandong , Wang Zhengdao , Yang Hui , Zhu Zuchao , Wei Yikun
Published: November 2022

In this paper, several methods about the active noise control (ANC) system are studied. The common adaptive recognition system based on the variable step filter x least mean square (FxLMS) algorithm are elaborated. By introducing the momentum term into the variable step algorithm, the value range of the variable step is increased, so as to speed up the convergence of the algorithm and improve the effect of noise reduction. The weight of the control filter based on the improved logarithmic function variable step size least mean square (VSSLMS) algorithm is updated in the improved second channel online recognition algorithm. The initial smooth noise signal, the noise signal of increasing amplitude, and the abrupt noise signal are utilized to verify the convergence speed and the noise reduction effect of the modified ANC method. Numerical results show that the improved algorithm structure could improve the convergence speed and reduce the noises of the whole system at three different primary noises. The initial smooth noise signal, the noise signal of increasing amplitude, and the abrupt noise signal are utilized to verify the convergence speed and the noise reduction effect of the modified ANC method. Numerical results under three different primary noises show that the improved algorithm structure could improve the convergence speed and reduce the noise of the whole system.
Violence in relation to cognitive deficits and symptom severity in a sample of Egyptian patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Okasha Tarek Ahmed , Omar Abdel Nasser , Elserafy Doha , Serry Samar , Rabie Eman S
Published: November 2022

Background:

Patient with schizophrenia are significantly more likely to be violent than general population; and the consequences of this violence risk are often very serious for the patients, their caregivers, and the entire community.

Aim:

To assess the risk of violence in patients with schizophrenia and its correlation with severity of symptoms and cognitive functions.

Methods:

A cross-sectional comparative study conducted in Okasha institute of psychiatry including 50 patients with schizophrenia compared to 50 healthy control group regarding violence risk as assessed by Historical, Clinical, and Risk Management-20 (HCR-20), case group was assessed using Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV (SCID-I), Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), cognitive functions were assessed by Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS), Trail Making Test (TMT) Part A and B, the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST), and the Wechsler Memory Scale (WMS).

Results:

There was a statistically significant difference between case and control groups regarding risk of violence where 58% of the case group were found to have risk of violence compared to only 18% in the control group. There was a significant correlation between this risk of violence and period of untreated psychosis, no of episodes, and history of substance use; also was significantly correlated with PANSS and Wisconsin card sorting test subscales. Regarding logistic regression analysis for factors affecting violence risk; total PANSS score and history of substance use were significant independent factors that increase violence risk.

Conclusion:

Violence risk in patient with schizophrenia is a cardinal factor that may affect life of the patients, their family, and society; this risk can be affected by different factors including severity of symptoms, no of episodes, history of substance use, and cognitive function of the patients.
A probabilistic study into the influences of fiber angle orientations on energy absorption performance of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer composite tubes
Authors: Abbasi Milad , Khalkhali Abolfazl , Sackmann Johannes
Published: November 2022

The influence of fiber orientations on the crashworthiness of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composite tubes was investigated to fill in the knowledge gap regarding the effects of fiber angle on the energy-absorbing potential of these tubes. This study adopted the Hammersley sequence sampling (HSS) method to generate a quasi-random distribution of the design objectives. Then, LS-DYNA was utilized for numerical quasi-static crushing tests to measure the specific energy absorption (SEA) and the crushing force efficiency (CFE) of a quasi-static CFRP tube at different fiber angles. The Kriging method was implemented to generate a surrogate model. Finally, Pareto results were extracted deterministically and probabilistically using the NSGAII algorithm. Fiber orientation angles are naturally exposed to uncertainties in the manufacturing process; thus, the main contribution of the study is illustrating the effects of fiber angle orientations on the energy-absorbing characteristics of CFRP tubes while incorporating uncertainties into the optimization procedure. Interestingly, the optimum fiber angle orientations revealed the potential advantage of using non-conventional angle-ply layouts by improving the CFE by up to 4% compared with the initial design configuration. The results also demonstrated the capability and superior performance of the optimization procedure in finding the global optima, and the necessity of conducting a probabilistic examination in similar studies.