bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recurrent metastatic primary inflammatory myofibroblast tumour of the gallbladder following pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Anteby Roi , Sullivan Brianne J , Mani Malary , Golas Benjamin
Published: February 2020

Inflammatory myofibroblast tumour (IMT) is an uncommon soft tissue tumour with an unpredictable clinical course: mostly benign, occasionally locally aggressive and rarely capable of metastasis. Diagnosed mainly in the mesentery, omentum, retroperitoneum, pelvis and lungs, IMT is extremely rare as a primary gallbladder tumour. Despite improved radiographical capabilities, differentiating the tumour from other more common causes of gallbladder neoplasms necessitates histopathological and immunohistochemistry tests. Once diagnosed, malignant potential should be taken into consideration, striving for an en bloc R0 resection and postoperative long-term follow-up with routine ancillary imaging. The authors present the case of a recurrent primary IMT of the gallbladder, after two surgical treatments, including a pancreaticoduodenectomy. Now 3 years after initial diagnoses the patient is asymptomatic, but has developed local and distant metastases and is being treated with systemic corticosteroid.
Central compact osteoma of mandibular condyle
Authors: Nilesh Kumar , Vande Aaditee , Reddy Sridhar
Published: February 2020

Osteomas are bone tumours arising from the cortical or medullary bones of craniofacial skeleton. Involvement of frontal bone and paranasal sinuses is more frequent than jaw bones. Jaw osteomas are slow growing benign lesions, which are usually asymptomatic or present as painless swelling. Those involving mandibular condyle are relatively rare and result in significant functional and aesthetic disturbances. This paper reports a case of solitary central compact osteoma of mandibular condyle in an adult Indian female patient. A comprehensive review of previously published reports is also presented.
Activity and functional readiness, not age, are the critical factors for second anterior cruciate ligament injury — the Delaware-Oslo ACL cohort study
Authors: Grindem Hege , Engebretsen Lars , Axe Michael , Snyder-Mackler Lynn , Risberg May Arna
Published: February 2020

Objective

To elucidate the relationships between age, return to level I sport (RTS) within the first postoperative year, passing RTS criteria and second anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.

Methods

In a prospective cohort study, 213 athletes were followed for 2 years after ACL reconstruction to record second ACL injuries. Independent variables were age, passing RTS criteria and level I RTS within the first postoperative year (vs later or no RTS). We defined passing RTS criteria as ≥90 on the Knee Outcome Survey — Activities of Daily Living Scale, global rating scale of function and quadriceps strength/hop test symmetry.

Results

The follow-up rate was >87% for all outcomes. In multivariable analysis, level I RTS within the first postoperative year and passing RTS criteria were highly associated with second ACL injury (level I RTS HR: 6.0 (95% CI: 1.6 to 22.6), pass RTS criteria HR: 0.08 (95% CI: 0.01 to 0.6)), while age was not (age HR: 0.96 (95% CI: 0.89 to 1.04)). Athletes <25 years had higher level I RTS rates in the first postoperative year (60.4%) than older athletes (28.0%). Of those who returned to level I sport in the first postoperative year, 38.1% of younger and 59.1% of older athletes passed RTS criteria.

Conclusion

High rates of second ACL injury in young athletes may be driven by a mismatch between RTS rates and functional readiness to RTS. Passing RTS criteria was independently associated with a lower second ACL rate. Allowing more time prior to RTS, and improving rehabilitation and RTS support, may reduce second ACL injury rates in young athletes with ACL reconstruction.
Hospital-wide ELectronic medical record evaluated computerised decision support system to improve outcomes of Patients with staphylococcal bloodstream infection (HELP): study protocol for a multicentre stepped-wedge cluster randomised trial
Authors: Hagel Stefan , Gantner Julia , Spreckelsen Cord , Fischer Claudia , Ammon Danny , Saleh Kutaiba , Phan-Vogtmann Lo An , Heidel Andrew , Müller Susanne , Helhorn Alexander , Kruse Henner , Thomas Eric , Rißner Florian , Haferkamp Silke , Vorwerk Jens , Deffge Saskia , Juzek-Küpper Marc Fabian , Lippmann Norman , Lübbert Christoph , Trawinski Henning , Wendt Sebastian , Wendt Thomas , Dürschmid Andreas , Konik Margarethe , Moritz Stefan , Tiller Daniel , Röhrig Rainer , Schulte-Coerne Jonas , Fortmann Jonas , Jonas Stephan , Witzke Oliver , Rath Peter-Michael , Pletz Mathias W , Scherag André
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Staphylococci are the most commonly identified pathogens in bloodstream infections. Identification of Staphylococcus aureus in blood culture (SAB) requires a prompt and adequate clinical management. The detection of coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS), however, corresponds to contamination in about 75% of the cases. Nevertheless, antibiotic therapy is often initiated, which contributes to the risk of drug-related side effects. We developed a computerised clinical decision support system (HELP-CDSS) that assists physicians with an appropriate management of patients with Staphylococcus bacteraemia. The CDSS is evaluated using data of the Data Integration Centers (DIC) established at each clinic. DICs transform heterogeneous primary clinical data into an interoperable format, and the HELP-CDSS displays information according to current best evidence in bacteraemia treatment. The overall aim of the HELP-CDSS is a safe but more efficient allocation of infectious diseases specialists and an improved adherence to established guidelines in the treatment of SAB.

Methods and analysis

The study is conducted at five German university hospitals and is designed as a stepped-wedge cluster randomised trial. Over the duration of 18 months, 135 wards will change from a control period to the intervention period in a randomised stepwise sequence. The coprimary outcomes are hospital mortality for all patients to establish safety, the 90-day disease reoccurrence-free survival for patients with SAB and the cumulative vancomycin use for patients with CoNS bacteraemia. We will use a closed, hierarchical testing procedure and generalised linear mixed modelling to test for non-inferiority of the CDSS regarding hospital mortality and 90-day disease reoccurrence-free survival and for superiority of the HELP-CDSS regarding cumulative vancomycin use.

Ethics and dissemination

The study is approved by the ethics committee of Jena University Hospital and will start at each centre after local approval. Results will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and presented at scientific conferences.

Trial registration number

DRKS00014320.
Total laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy versus open pancreaticoduodenectomy (TJDBPS01): study protocol for a multicentre, randomised controlled clinical trial
Authors: Zhang Hang , Feng Yechen , Zhao Junfang , Chen Rufu , Chen Xuemin , Yin Xinmin , Cheng Wei , Li Dewei , Li Jingdong , Huang Xiaobing , Li Jing , Liu Jianhua , Liu Jun , Liu Yahui , Tan Zhijian , Zhao Wenxing , Huang Heguang , Li Deyu , Yu Yahong , Wang Min , Qin Renyi
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) is one of the most complex abdominal operations to perform, and it is usually conducted for tumours of the periampullary region and chronic pancreatitis. Minimally invasive surgery has been progressively being developed for pancreatic surgery, first with the advent of hybrid-laparoscopy and recently with total laparoscopic surgery. Issues including the safety and efficacy of total laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy (TLPD) and open pancreaticoduodenectomy (OPD) are currently being debated. Studies comparing these two surgical techniques are emerging, and large randomised controlled trials (RCTs) are lacking but are clearly required.

Methods and analysis

TJDBPS01 is a multicentre, prospective, randomised controlled, parallel-group, superiority trial in 14 centres with pancreatic surgery experts who have performed ≥104 TLPDs and OPDs. A total of 656 patients who will undergo PD are randomly allocated to the TLPD group or OPD group in a 1:1 ratio. The trial hypothesis is that TLPD has superior or equivalent safety and advantages in postoperative recovery compared with OPD. The primary outcome is the postoperative length of stay.

Ethics and dissemination

The Instituitional Review Board Approval of Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology has approved this trial and will be routinely monitoring the trial at frequent intervals, as will an independent third-party organisation. Any results from this trial (publications, conference presentations) will be published in peer-reviewed journals and conference proceedings.

Trial registration number

NCT03138213
Perspectives on simulation-based training from paediatric healthcare providers in Nigeria: a national survey
Authors: Umoren Rachel , Ezeaka Veronica Chinyere , Fajolu Ireti B , Ezenwa Beatrice N , Akintan Patricia , Chukwu Emeka , Spiekerman Chuck
Published: February 2020

Objectives

The objective of this study was to explore the access to, and perceived utility of, various simulation modalities by in-service healthcare providers in a resource-scarce setting.

Setting

Paediatric training workshops at a national paediatric conference in Nigeria.

Participants

All 200 healthcare workers who attended the workshop sessions were eligible to participate. A total of 161 surveys were completed (response rate 81%).

Primary and secondary outcome measures

A paper-based 25-item cross-sectional survey on simulation-based training (SBT) was administered to a convenience sample of healthcare workers from secondary and tertiary healthcare facilities.

Results

Respondents were mostly 31–40 years of age (79, 49%) and women (127, 79%). Consultant physicians (26, 16%) and nurses (56, 35%) were in both general (98, 61%) and subspecialty (56, 35%) practice. Most had 5–10 years of experience (62, 37%) in a tertiary care setting (72, 43%). Exposure to SBT varied by profession with physicians more likely to be exposed to manikin-based (29, 30% physicians vs 12, 19% nurses, p<0.001) or online training (7, 7% physician vs 3, 5% nurses, p<0.05). Despite perceived barriers to SBT, respondents thought that SBT should be expanded for continuing education (84, 88% physician vs 39, 63% nurses, p<0.001), teaching (73, 76% physicians vs 16, 26% nurses, p<0.001) and research (65, 68% physicians vs 14, 23% nurses, p<0.001). If facilities were available, nearly all respondents (92, 98% physicians; 52, 96% nurses) would recommend the use of online simulation for their centre.

Conclusions

The access of healthcare workers to SBT is limited in resource-scarce settings. While acknowledging the challenges, respondents identified many areas in which SBT may be useful, including skills acquisition, skills practice and communication training. Healthcare workers were open to the use of online SBT and expressed the need to expand SBT beyond the current scope for health professional training in Nigeria.
Non-interventional study evaluating exposure to inhaled, low-dose methoxyflurane experienced by hospital emergency department personnel in France
Authors: Frangos John , Belbachir Anissa , Dautheville Sandrine , Jung Christiane , Herklotz Key , Amon Freya , Dickerson Sara , Chomier Berangere
Published: February 2020

Objectives

Low-dose methoxyflurane is a non-opioid, inhaled analgesic administered via the Penthrox inhaler and was recently licensed in Europe for emergency relief of moderate-to-severe trauma-associated pain in conscious adults. This non-interventional study investigated occupational exposure to methoxyflurane in the hospital emergency department (ED) personnel during routine clinical practice.

Setting and participants

The study was conducted in two hospital ED triage rooms in France over a 2-week and 3-week period, respectively. Low-dose methoxyflurane analgesia was self-administered by patients via the inhaler under the supervision of nursing staff, per routine clinical practice. An organic vapour personal badge sampler was attached to the uniform of the nurses working in the treatment rooms throughout an 8-hour shift (total of 140 shifts during the study period). Seven-day ambient air monitoring of each treatment room was also performed. Methoxyflurane levels adsorbed in each badge sampler were measured by a central laboratory. The primary objective was to evaluate methoxyflurane exposure experience by the hospital ED nurses during an 8-hour shift.

Results

In 138 badge samplers, the median (range) concentration of methoxyflurane present following 8-hour nursing shifts was 0.017 (0.008, 0.736) ppm. This level was almost 900-fold lower than the previously reported 8-hour-derived maximal exposure level of 15 ppm; methoxyflurane exposure approaching this threshold was not documented in any badges. There was no correlation between the number of applications of low-dose methoxyflurane administered during a shift (range 0–5) and the vapour exposure measured on the personal badge samplers.

Conclusions

This study indicates that nurses working in hospital EDs experience very low levels of occupational exposure to methoxyflurane vapour during routine clinical practice. These real-world data can provide reassurance to healthcare providers supervising patients receiving low-dose methoxyflurane analgesia via a Penthrox inhaler; further studies may inform exposure in other hospital ED settings.
Evolution of methodology and reporting of emergency medicine quantitative research over a 20-year period
Authors: Smith Jesse , Date Patrick , Spencer William , de Tonnerre Erik , Taylor David McDonald
Published: February 2020

Objective

We aimed to determine trends over time in article origin, and article and methodology characteristics.

Method

We examined original research articles published every fifth year over a 20-year period (1997–2017) in six emergency medicine (EM) journals (Ann Emerg Med, Acad Emerg Med, Eur J Emerg Med, Emerg Med J, Am J Emerg Med, Emerg Med Australas). Explicit data extraction of 21 article characteristics was undertaken. These included regional contributions, specific article items and research methodology.

Results

2152 articles were included. Over the study period, the proportional contributions from the USA and the UK steadily fell while those from Australasia, Europe and ‘other’ countries increased (p<0.001). All specific article items increased (p<0.01). Institutional Review Board/Ethics Committee approval and conflicts of interest were almost universal by 2017. There were substantial increases in the reporting of keywords and authorship contributions. The median (IQR) number of authors increased from 4 (2) in 1997 to 6 (3) in 2017 (p<0.001) and the proportion of female first authors increased from 24.3% to 34.2% (p<0.01). Multicentre and international collaborations, consecutive sampling, sample size calculations, inferential biostatistics and the reporting of CIs and p values all increased (p<0.001). There were decreases in the use of convenience sampling and blinding (p<0.001). The median (IQR) study sample size increased from 148 (470) to 349 (2225) (p<0.001).

Conclusion

Trends over time are apparent within the EM research literature. The dominance in contributions from the US and UK is being challenged. There is more reporting of research accountability and greater rigour in both research methodology and results presentation.
Australian consensus statements for the regulation, production and use of faecal microbiota transplantation in clinical practice
Authors: Haifer Craig , Kelly Colleen R , Paramsothy Sudarshan , Andresen David , Papanicolas Lito E , McKew Genevieve L , Borody Thomas J , Kamm Michael , Costello Samuel P , Andrews Jane M , Begun Jakob , Chan Hiu Tat , Connor Susan , Ghaly Simon , Johnson Paul DR , Lemberg Daniel A , Paramsothy Ramesh , Redmond Andrew , Sheorey Harsha , van der Poorten David , Leong Rupert W
Published: February 2020

Objective

Faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has proved to be an extremely effective treatment for recurrentClostridioides difficileinfection, and there is interest in its potential application in other gastrointestinal and systemic diseases. However, the recent death and episode of septicaemia following FMT highlights the need for further appraisal and guidelines on donor evaluation, production standards, treatment facilities and acceptable clinical indications.

Design

For these consensus statements, a 24-member multidisciplinary working group voted online and then convened in-person, using a modified Delphi approach to formulate and refine a series of recommendations based on best evidence and expert opinion. Invitations to participate were directed to Australian experts, with an international delegate assisting the development. The following issues regarding the use of FMT in clinical practice were addressed: donor selection and screening, clinical indications, requirements of FMT centres and future directions. Evidence was rated using the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) system.

Results

Consensus was reached on 27 statements to provide guidance on best practice in FMT. These include: (1) minimum standards for donor screening with recommended clinical selection criteria, blood and stool testing; (2) accepted routes of administration; (3) clinical indications; (4) minimum standards for FMT production and requirements for treatment facilities acknowledging distinction between single-site centres (eg, hospital-based) and stool banks; and (5) recommendations on future research and product development.

Conclusions

These FMT consensus statements provide comprehensive recommendations around the production and use of FMT in clinical practice with relevance to clinicians, researchers and policy makers.
Single-center experience of using high definition (Hi-Def) imaging during neurointervention treatment of intracranial aneurysms using flow diverters
Authors: Setlur Nagesh Swetadri Vasan , Vakharia Kunal , Waqas Muhammad , Munich Stephan A , Bednarek Daniel R , Davies Jason M , Snyder Kenneth V , Mokin Maxim , Rudin Stephen , Levy Elad I , Siddiqui Adnan H
Published: February 2020

Background

A new dual resolution imaging x-ray detector system (Canon Medical Systems Corporation, Tochigi, Japan) has a standard resolution 194 µm pixel conventional flat-panel detector (FPD) mode and a high-resolution 76 µm high-definition (Hi-Def) mode in a single unit. The Hi-Def mode enhances the visualization of the intravascular devices.

Objective

We report the clinical experience and physician evaluation of this new detector system with Hi-Def mode for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms using a Pipeline embolization device (PED).

Methods

During intervention at our institute, under large field of view (FOV) regular resolution FPD mode imaging, the catheter systems and devices were first guided to the proximity of the treatment area. Final placement and deployment of the PED was performed under Hi-Def mode guidance. A post-procedure 9-question physician survey was conducted to qualitatively assess the impact of Hi-Def mode visualization on physicians’ intraoperative decision-making. One-sample t-test was performed on the responses from the survey. Dose values reported by the x-ray unit were also recorded.

Results

Twenty-five cases were included in our study. The survey results indicated that, for each of the nine questions, the physicians in all cases indicated that the Hi-Def mode improved visualization compared with the FPD mode. For the 25 cases, the mean cumulative entrance air kerma was 2.35 Gy, the mean dose area product (DAP) was 173.71 Gy.cm2, and the mean x-ray exposure time was 39.30 min.

Conclusions

The Hi-Def mode improves visualization of flow diverters and may help in achieving more accurate placement and deployment of devices.
Gamow–Teller strength distributions of $${^{116} \text {Sb}}$$ and $${^{122} \text {Sb}}$$ using the $${(^{3} \text {He}, t)}$$ charge-exchange reaction
Authors: Douma C. A. , Agodi C. , Akimune H. , Alanssari M. , Cappuzzello F. , Carbone D. , Cavallaro M. , Colò G. , Diel F. , Ejiri H. , Frekers D. , Fujita H. , Fujita Y. , Fujiwara M. , Gey G. , Harakeh M. N. , Hatanaka K. , Hattori F. , Heguri K. , Holl M. , Inoue A. , Kalantar-Nayestanaki N. , Niu Y. F. , Puppe P. , Ries P. C. , Tamii A. , Werner V. , Zegers R. G. T. , Zuber K.
Published: February 2020

The Gamow–Teller strength distributions of$${^{116} \text {Sb}}$$116Sband$${^{122} \text {Sb}}$$122Sbwere measured with the$${^{116,122} \text {Sn} (^{3} \text {He},t) ^{116,122} \text {Sb}}$$116,122Sn(3He,t)116,122Sbcharge-exchange reactions at$${140 \ \text {MeV/u}}$$140MeV/u. The measurements were carried out at the Research Center for Nuclear Physics (RCNP) at Osaka University in Osaka, Japan using the Grand Raiden spectrometer. The data were analysed by Multipole-Decomposition Analysis (MDA). The Gamow–Teller strengths summed up to$${28 \ \text {MeV}}$$28MeVare$${(38 \pm 7) \%}$$(38±7)%and$${(48 \pm 6) \%}$$(48±6)%of the Ikeda sum rule for$${^{116} \text {Sb}}$$116Sband$${^{122} \text {Sb}}$$122Sb, respectively, if the quasi-free scattering (QFS) contribution is not subtracted. These percentages are$${(29 \pm 7) \%}$$(29±7)%and$${(35 \pm 5) \%}$$(35±5)%, respectively, if the QFS contribution is maximally subtracted. These results were compared to those from previous measurements of the same isotopes, to recent measurements of$${^{150} \text {Pm}}$$150Pm, and to a Quasi-particle Random-Phase Approximation (QRPA) calculation with Quasi-Particle Vibration Coupling (QPVC). The data suggest that the true QFS contribution is small for$${^{116} \text {Sb}}$$116Sb, but are inconclusive about whether the QFS contribution is small or significant for$${^{122} \text {Sb}}$$122Sb. Therefore, these data may provide an interesting test for the general quenching phenomenon of the Gamow–Teller Resonance (GTR). However, more research to reveal the nature of the QFS contribution is still needed on both the experimental and the theoretical side.
Holographic p-wave superconductor with $$C^2F^2$$ correction
Authors: Lu Jun-Wang , Wu Ya-Bo , Dong Bao-Ping , Zhang Yu
Published: February 2020

Via numerical and analytical method, we construct the holographic p-wave conductor/superconductor model with $$C^2F^2$$C2F2 correction (where $$C^2F^2=C_{\mu \nu }^{\alpha \beta }C_{ \alpha \beta }^{\mu \nu }F_{\rho \sigma }F^{\rho \sigma }$$C2F2=CμναβCαβμνFρσFρσ, and $$C_{\mu \nu }^{\alpha \beta }$$Cμναβ and $$F_{\rho \sigma }$$Fρσ denotes the Weyl tensor and gauge field strength, respectively.)in the four-dimensional Schwarzschild-AdS black hole, and mainly study the effects of $$C^2F^2$$C2F2 correction parameter denoted by $$\gamma $$γ on the properties of superconductors. The results show that for all values of the $$C^2F^2$$C2F2 parameter, there always exists a critical temperature below which the vector hair appears. Meanwhile, the critical temperature increases with the improving $$C^2F^2$$C2F2 parameter $$\gamma $$γ, which suggests that the improving $$C^2F^2$$C2F2 parameter enhances the superconductor phase transition. Furthermore, at the critical temperature, the real part of conductivity reproduces respectively a Drude-like peak and an obviously pronounced peak for some value of nonvanishing $$C^2F^2$$C2F2 parameter. At the low temperature, a clear energy gap can be observed at the intermediate frequency and the ratio of the energy gap to the critical temperature decreases with the increasing $$C^2F^2$$C2F2 parameter, which is consistent with the effect of the $$C^2F^2$$C2F2 parameter on the critical temperature. In addition, the analytical results agree well with the numerical results, which means that the analytical Sturm–Liouville method is still reliable in the grand canonical ensemble.
$$f(\mathcal {R},\varphi ,\chi )$$ cosmology with Noether symmetry
Authors: Shamir M. Farasat
Published: February 2020

This paper is devoted to explore modified $$f(\mathcal {R})$$f(R) theories of gravity using Noether symmetry approach. For this purpose, Friedmann–Robertson–Walker spacetime is chosen to investigate the cosmic evolution. The study is mainly divided into two parts: Firstly Noether symmetries of metric $$f(\mathcal {R})$$f(R) gravity are revisited and some new class of solutions with the help of conserved quantities are reported. It is shown that different scenarios of cosmic evolution can be discussed using Noether symmetries and one of the case indicates the chances for the existence of Big Rip singularity. Secondly, $$f(\mathcal {R})$$f(R) theory coupled with scalar field has been discussed in detail. The Noether equations of modified gravity are reported with three subcases for flat Friedmann–Robertson–Walker universe. It is concluded that conserved quantities are quite helpful to find some important exact solutions in the cosmological contexts. Moreover, the scalar field involved in the modified gravity plays a vital role in the cosmic evolution and an accelerated expansion phase can be observed for some suitable choices of $$f(\mathcal {R},\varphi ,\chi )$$f(R,φ,χ) gravity models.
THE DETERMINANTS OF FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT IN R&D: DIFFERENT INDUCEMENT EFFECTS OF PRIVATE AND PUBLIC R&D IN DEVELOPED AND DEVELOPING HOST COUNTRIES
Authors: PARK JUN-KI , LEE DONG JOON , LEE KEUN
Published: February 2020

In this paper, we identify the different determinants of the location of research and development (R&D) on foreign direct investment (FDI) in both developed and developing countries. In the case of host developed countries, we find that private R&D investment is positively associated with attracting R&D on FDI. In contrast, in the case of host developing countries, we find that private R&D investment is not significantly associated with attracting R&D FDI, but public R&D induces it. These findings imply that the objective of R&D FDI in developed economies is to advance multinational corporations’ (MNCs) technology further by targeting the local technology market. In contrast, the R&D FDI of MNCs in developing countries is attracted toward localities where the R&D infrastructure is better developed due to public R&D investment. MNCs in developing countries do not direct considerable attention to the R&D activities of the local private sector because their goal is to modify their own technology or products for the local product or export markets in the host countries. Therefore, although one obvious policy implication is the importance of conducting local R&D to attract foreign R&D, the more important factors are to stimulate private R&D further in the case of developed countries and to initiate public R&D first in the case of developing countries.
Algorithms for generalized numerical semigroups
Authors: Cisto Carmelo , Delgado Manuel , García-Sánchez Pedro A.
Published: February 2020

We provide algorithms for performing computations in generalized numerical semigroups, that is, submonoids of [Formula: see text] with finite complement in [Formula: see text]. These semigroups are affine semigroups, which in particular implies that they are finitely generated. For a given finite set of elements in [Formula: see text] we show how to deduce if the monoid spanned by this set is a generalized numerical semigroup and, if so, we calculate its set of gaps. Also, given a finite set of elements in [Formula: see text] we can determine if it is the set of gaps of a generalized numerical semigroup and, if so, compute the minimal generators of this monoid. We provide a new algorithm to compute the set of all generalized numerical semigroups with a prescribed genus (the cardinality of their sets of gaps). Its implementation allowed us to compute (for various dimensions) the number of numerical semigroups of higher genus than has previously been computed.
The Unruh effect without space–time
Authors: Arzano Michele
Published: February 2020

We show how the characteristic thermal effects found for a quantum field in space–time geometries admitting a causal horizon can be found in a simple quantum system living on the real line. The analysis we present is essentially group theoretic in nature: a thermal state emerges naturally when comparing representations of the group of affine transformations of the real line. The freedom in the choice of different notions of translation generators is the key to the one-dimensional Unruh effect we describe.
Local Variational Feature-Based Similarity Models for Recommending Top-
N
New Items
Authors: Chen Yifan , Wang Yang , Zhao Xiang , Yin Hongzhi , Markov Ilya , Rijke MAARTEN De
Published: February 2020

The top-
N
recommendation problem has been studied extensively. Item-based collaborative filtering recommendation algorithms show promising results for the problem. They predict a user’s preferences by estimating similarities between a target and user-rated items. Top-
N
recommendation remains a challenging task in scenarios where there is a lack of preference history for new items. Feature-based Similarity Models (FSMs) address this particular problem by extending item-based collaborative filtering by estimating similarity functions of item features. The quality of the estimated similarity function determines the accuracy of the recommendation. However, existing FSMs only estimate
global
similarity functions; i.e., they estimate using preference information across all users. Moreover, the estimated similarity functions are
linear
; hence, they may fail to capture the complex structure underlying item features.

In this article, we propose to improve FSMs by estimating local similarity functions, where each function is estimated for a subset of like-minded users. To capture global preference patterns, we extend the global similarity function from linear to nonlinear, based on the effectiveness of variational autoencoders. We propose a Bayesian generative model, called the Local Variational Feature-based Similarity Model, to encapsulate local and global similarity functions. We present a variational Expectation Minimization algorithm for efficient approximate inference. Extensive experiments on a large number of real-world datasets demonstrate the effectiveness of our proposed model.
Jupiter's Interior as Revealed by Juno
Authors: Stevenson David J.
Published: February 2020

Jupiter is in the class of planets that we call gas giants, not because they consist of gas but because they were primarily made from hydrogen-helium gas, which upon gravitational compression becomes a metallic fluid. Juno, in orbit about Jupiter since 2016, has changed our view: The gravity data are much improved, and the simplest interpretation of the higher order even harmonics implies that the planet may have a diluted central concentration of heavy elements. Jupiter has strong winds extending to perhaps ∼3,000-km depth that are evident in the odd zonal harmonics of the gravity field. Jupiter's distinctive magnetic field displays some limited local structure, most notably the Great Blue Spot (a region of downward flux near the equator), and some evidence for secular variation, possibly arising from the winds. However, Juno is ongoing; it has not answered all questions and has posed new ones. ▪  Juno's mission reveals Jupiter's interior. ▪  A core exists but is diluted by hydrogen. ▪  The mission revealed wind depth and magnetic field.
Gaseous Pollutants and Particulate Matter (PM) in Ambient Air and the Number of New Cases of Type 1 Diabetes in Children and Adolescents in the Pomeranian Voivodeship, Poland
Authors: Michalska Małgorzata , Zorena Katarzyna , Wąż Piotr , Bartoszewicz Maria , Brandt-Varma Agnieszka , Ślęzak Daniel , Robakowska Marlena
Published: February 2020

The increase in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) incidence in children is worrying and not yet fully explored. It is suggested that probably air pollution exposure could contribute to the development of T1DM. The aim of the study was to investigate the relationship between the concentration of gaseous pollutants including, nitrogen dioxide (NO2), nitric oxides (NOx), sulphur dioxide (SO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and particulate matter (PM) in the air, and the number of new cases of T1DM in children. The number of new cases of T1DM was obtained from the Clinic of Paediatrics, Diabetology, and Endocrinology, Medical University of Gdańsk. The number of children of 0–18 years old in Pomeranian Voivodeship was acquired from the Statistical Yearbook. The concentrations of PM10 absorbance, NO2, NOx, SO2, and CO were measured at 41 measuring posts, between 1 January 2015 and 31 December 2016. It was detected that the average annual concentration of PM10 was higher than the value acceptable to the WHO. Furthermore, the average 24‐hour concentration of PM10 was 92 μg/m3 and was higher compared to the acceptable value of 50 μg/m3 (acc. to EU and WHO). Moreover, the number of new cases of T1DM showed a correlation with the annual average concentration of PM10 (β = 2.396, p < 0.001), SO2 (β = 2.294, p < 0.001), and CO (β = 2.452, p < 0.001). High exposure to gaseous pollutants and particulate matter in ambient air may be one of the factors contributing to the risk of developing T1DM in children. Therefore, it is important to take action to decrease air pollutant emissions in Poland. It is crucial to gradually but consistently eliminate the use of solid fuels, such as coal and wood in households, in favour of natural gas and electricity. The development of new technologies to improve air quality, such as “best available techniques” (BAT) or renewable energy sources (water, wind, and solar generation) is of critical importance as well.
A Case of Secondary Syphilis with the Extragenital Chancre on the Nipple
Authors: Wang Xiao Yan , Juliandri  , Liu Zi Jing , Zhang Jia Wen , Liu Yun Yi , Wang Da-Guang , Xu Yang
Published: February 2020

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease caused by Treponema pallidum. The signs and symptoms of syphilis vary depending on which of the four stages it presents. The primary stage of syphilis classically presents with a painless ulcer (chancre). We report a case of the extragenital chancre on the nipple which is examined from skin biopsy and immunohistochemistry. This case showed that it is important to identify the special site’s pruritus erythema by pathology and serological examination.
Intelligent Approach to Robust Design Optimization of a Rotor System due to Its Support Stiffness Uncertainty
Authors: Xu Bensheng , Zang Chaoping , Zhang Genbei
Published: February 2020

In this paper, an intelligent robust design approach combined with different techniques such as polynomial chaos expansion (PCE), radial basis function (RBF) neural network, and evolutionary algorithms is presented with a focus on the optimization of the dynamic response of a rotor system considering support stiffness uncertainty. In the proposed method, the PCE method instead of the traditional Monte Carlo uncertainty analysis is applied to analyze the uncertain propagation of system performance. The RBF network is introduced to establish the approximate models of the objective and constraint functions. Taking the low-pressure rotor of a gas turbine with support stiffness uncertainty as an example, the optimization model is established with the mean and variance of unbalanced response of the rotor system at different operating speeds as the objective function, and the maximum unbalance response is less than the upper limit as the constraint function. The polynomial chaos expansion is generated to facilitate a rapid analysis of robustness in the presence of support stiffness uncertainties that is defined in terms of tolerance with good accuracy. The optimal Hypercubus are used as experimental plans for building RBF approximation models of the objective and constraint functions. Finally, the robust solutions are obtained with the multiobject optimization algorithm NSGA-II. Monte Caro simulation analysis demonstrates that the qualified rate of maximum vibration responses of the low-pressure rotor system can be increased from 83.6% to over 99%. This approach to robust design optimization is shown to lead to designs that significantly decrease vibration responses of the rotor system and improved system performance with reduced sensitivity to support stiffness uncertainty.
Hyperchaotic Circuit Based on Memristor Feedback with Multistability and Symmetries
Authors: Wang Xiaoyuan , Min Xiaotao , Zhou Pengfei , Yu Dongsheng
Published: February 2020

A novel hyperchaotic circuit is proposed by introducing a memristor feedback in a simple Lorenz-like chaotic system. Dynamic analysis shows that it has infinite equilibrium points and multistability. Additionally, the symmetrical coexistent attractors are investigated. Further, the hyperchaotic system is implemented by analogue circuits. Corresponding experimental results are completely consistent with the theoretical analysis.
The Value of Routine Intravenous Tranexamic Acid in Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Chin J. , Blackett J. , Kieser D. C. , Frampton C. , Hooper G.
Published: February 2020

Objective. To determine the effect on the need for transfusion when intravenous tranexamic acid (TXA) is administered intraoperatively in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA). Method. A prospective, double blinded, randomised control trial of 88 patients undergoing THA was randomly allocated to receive 1 g of intravenous TXA or normal saline on induction of anaesthesia. All patients received spinal anaesthesia. The primary outcome measure was transfusion rate, and the secondary outcomes were intraoperative blood loss, haemoglobin levels, length of hospital stay, functional scores, and thromboembolic complications. Results. 19.0% of patients given TXA required a blood transfusion, compared with 20.5% given placebo (p=0.87). Secondary outcomes included mean intraoperative blood loss, which was 536.5 ml in the TXA group and 469.8 ml in the placebo group (p=0.276). Day 1 haemoglobin levels were 108.9 g/l in the TXA group versus 104.3 g/l in the placebo group (p=0.114). Day 4 haemoglobin levels were 105.0 g/l and 99.8 g/l, respectively (p=0.130). The mean length of stay in those who received TXA was 4.3days, compared with 4.8days in those given placebo (p=0.20). The Oxford Hip Score showed a mean improvement over a 1-year period of 25.9 points in those who received TXA, compared with 26.7 points in those who received placebo (p=0.679). There were two treatment emergent adverse events: a pulmonary embolism (TXA) and a myocardial infarction (placebo). Conclusions. 1 g IV TXA administered on induction did not significantly reduce the need for blood transfusion, postoperative blood loss, functional scores, or the length of stay in patients undergoing THA. This trial is registered with ACTRN12610001065088.
Fractional-Order Predictive Functional Control of Industrial Processes with Partial Actuator Failures
Authors: Li Min-Ying , Lu Kang-Di , Dai Yu-Xing , Zeng Guo-Qiang
Published: February 2020

As the actuator faults in an industrial process cause damage or performance deterioration, the design issue of an optimal controller against these failures is of great importance. In this paper, a fractional-order predictive functional control method based on population extremal optimization is proposed to maintain the control performance against partial actuator failures. The proposed control strategy consists of two key ideas. The first one is the application of fractional-order calculus into the cost function of predictive functional control. Since the knowledge of analytical parameters including the prediction horizon, fractional-order parameter, and smoothing factor in fractional-order predictive functional control is not known, population extremal optimization is employed as the second key technique to search for these parameters. The effectiveness of the proposed controller is examined on two industrial processes, e.g., injection modeling batch process and process flow of coke furnace under constant faults, time-varying faults, and nonrepetitive unknown disturbance. The comprehensive simulation results demonstrate the performance of the proposed control method by comparing with a recently developed predictive functional control, genetic algorithm, and particle swarm optimization-based versions in terms of four performance indices.
Comparison of the Effects of TIPS versus BRTO on Bleeding Gastric Varices: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Zi Wen , Liu Jin Chao , Zhao Fang , Zhang Wen Guang , Duan Xu Hua , Chen Peng Fei , Yang Si Fu , Li Hong Wei , Chen Fu Wen , Shi Hong Sheng , Ren Jian Zhuang
Published: February 2020

Background and Aim. Upper gastrointestinal bleeding is a threat to patients with gastric varices (GVs). Previous studies have concluded that both transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) and balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration (BRTO) are effective treatments for patients with GV. We aimed to compare the efficiency and outcomes of these two procedures in GV patients through meta-analysis.Methods. The PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases were searched using the keywords: GV, bleeding, TIPS, and BRTO to identify relevant randomized controlled trials and cohort studies. The overall survival (OS) rate, imminent haemostasis rate, rebleeding rate, technical success rate, procedure complication rate (hepatic encephalopathy and aggravated ascites), and Child-Pugh score were evaluated. Randomized clinical trials and cohort studies comparing TIPS and BRTO for GV due to portal hypertension were included in our meta-analysis. Two independent reviewers performed data extraction and assessed the study quality. A meta-analysis was performed to calculate risk ratios (RRs), mean differences (MDs), and 95% CIs using random effects models.Results. A total of nine studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. There was a significant difference between TIPS and BRTO in the OS rate (RR, 0.81 (95% CI, 0.66 to 0.98);P=0.03) and rebleeding rate (RR, 2.61 (95% CI, 1.75 to 3.90);P<0.00001). TIPS had a higher incidence rate of hepatic encephalopathy (RR, 16.11 (95% CI, 7.13 to 36.37);P<0.00001). There was no significant difference between TIPS and BRTO in the immediate haemostasis rate (RR, 0.99 (95% CI, 0.89 to 1.10);P=0.84), technical success rate (RR, 1.06 (95% CI, 0.98 to 1.16);P=0.16), aggravated ascites rate (RR, 0.60 (95% CI, 0.33 to 1.09);P=0.10), or Child-Pugh change (MD, 0.22 (95% CI, −0.21 to 0.65);P=0.31).Conclusions. In this meta-analysis, BRTO brought more benefits to patients, with a higher OS rate and lower rebleeding rate. BRTO is a feasible method for GVB.
Obesity Enhances Antioxidant Capacity and Reduces Cytokine Levels of the Spleen in Mice to Resist Splenic Injury Challenged by Escherichia coli
Authors: Gu Xuchu , Ma Zhiyu , Fang Jing , Cai Dongjie , Zuo Zhicai , Liang Shuang , Cui Hengmin , Deng Junliang , Ma Xiaoping , Ren Zhihua , Geng Yi , Zhang Ming , Ye Gang , Xie Yue , Gou Liping , Hu Yanchun
Published: February 2020

Obese mice exhibited more lymphocytes in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and milder lung injury after Escherichia coli (E. coli) infection. However, it remained unclear whether the spleen contributed to the effect of obese mice with infection. The study was purposed to reveal the histopathological changes of the spleen caused by oxidative stress and inflammation in diet-induced obesity (DIO) mice challenged by Escherichia coli. After infection, the spleen tissues were obtained in normal and DIO mice at 0 h (uninfected), 12 h, 24 h, and 72 h postinfection. Results revealed that DIO mice have higher contents of resistin, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β in the spleen than normal mice and lower concentrations of GSH-Px, SOD, and CAT and higher MDA than normal mice. After an intranasal drip of E. coli, the activities of GSH-Px, SOD, and CAT in the DIO mice were elevated and the content of MDA declined. The activities of SOD and CAT in the normal mice declined, and the content of MDA was elevated. Moreover, the contents of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β in the spleen declined in DIO mice at 24 and 72 h, although the contents of leptin, resistin, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β were elevated at 12 h. The contents of resistin, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β were elevated in normal mice at 12 and 24 h. Those results indicated that obesity elevated splenic oxidation and inflammatory levels, but it enhanced antioxidant capacity and reduced cytokine levels of the spleen in mice to resist splenic injury after an intranasal drip of E. coli.
Endoscopic Repair of Gastrocolic and Colocutaneous Fistulas Complicating Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy Tube
Authors: Chime Chukwunonso , Baiomi Ahmed , Kumar Kishore , Patel Harish , Dev Anil , Makker Jasbir
Published: February 2020

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube feeding has become one of the options for supplemental feeding in a selected group of patients. It is a generally safe procedure usually undertaken by a gastroenterologist or a surgeon in most cases but with over 200,000 tubes being placed yearly, there is bound to be complications. Some of the encountered complications include bleeding, site infection, tube migration, and inadvertent creation of fistula. We present our index patient admitted from a long-term care facility for feculent vomiting and fecal material through the PEG tube. Imaging and colonoscopy confirmed the presence of both a gastrocolic and a colocutaneous fistula, both closed endoscopically with an over-the-scope and through-the-scope clips, respectively. Feeding through a nasogastric tube was resumed after 48 hours, and by the second week of admission, the patient was discharged back to the facility after placement of a new PEG tube.
Hydration Strategies for Preventing Contrast-Induced Acute Kidney Injury: A Systematic Review and Bayesian Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Cai Qiuping , Jing Ran , Zhang Wanfen , Tang Yushang , Li Xiaoping , Liu Tongqiang
Published: February 2020

Aims. Many previous studies have examined the effect of different hydration strategies on prevention of contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI), but the optimal strategy is unknown. We performed a network meta-analysis (NWM) of these previous studies to identify the optimal strategy. Methods and Results. Web of Science, PubMed, OVID Medline, and Cochrane Library were searched from their inception dates to September 30, 2018. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were selected based on strict inclusion criteria, and a Bayesian NWM was performed using WinBUGS V.1.4.3. We finally analyzed 60 eligible RCTs, which examined 21,293 patients and 2232 CI-AKI events. Compared to intravenous 0.9% sodium chloride (reference), intravenous sodium bicarbonate (OR [95% CI]: 0.74 [0.57, 0.93]), hemodynamic guided hydration (0.41 [0.18, 0.93]), and RenalGuard guided hydration (0.32 [0.14, 0.70]) significantly reduced the occurrence of CI-AKI. Oral hydration and intravenous 0.9% sodium chloride were each noninferior to no hydration in preventing CI-AKI. Intravenous 0.9% sodium chloride, sodium bicarbonate, and hemodynamic guided hydration were each noninferior to oral hydration in preventing CI-AKI. Based on surface under the cumulative ranking curve values, the RenalGuard system was best (0.974) and hemodynamic guided hydration was second best (0.849). Conclusion. There was substantial evidence to support the use of RenalGuard or hemodynamic guided hydration for preventing CI-AKI in high-risk patients, especially those with chronic kidney disease or cardiac dysfunction.