bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Weighted linear programming discriminant analysis for high‐dimensional binary classification
Authors: Wu Yufei , Yu Guan
Published: July 2020

Linear discriminant analysis (LDA) is widely used for various binary classification problems. In contrast to the LDA that estimates the precision matrix Ω and the mean difference vector δ in the classification rule separately, the linear programming discriminant (LPD) rule estimates the product Ωδ directly through a constrained ℓ1 minimization. The LPD rule has very good classification performance on many high‐dimensional binary classification problems. However, to estimate β* = Ωδ, the LPD rule uses equal weights for all the elements of β* in the constrained ℓ1 minimization. It may not deliver the optimal estimate of β*, and therefore the estimated discriminant direction can be suboptimal. In order to obtain better estimates of β* and the discriminant direction, we can heavily penalize βj in the constrained ℓ1 minimization if we suspect the jth feature is useless for the classification while moderately penalize βj if we suspect the jth feature is useful. In this paper, based on the LPD rule and some popular feature screening methods, we propose a new weighted linear programming discriminant (WLPD) rule for the high‐dimensional binary classification problem. The screening statistics used in the marginal two‐sample t‐test screening, Kolmogorov–Smirnov filter, and the maximum marginal likelihood screening will be used to construct appropriate weights for different elements of β* flexibly. Besides the linear programming algorithm, we develop a new alternating direction method of multipliers algorithm to solve the high‐dimensional constrained ℓ1 minimization problem efficiently. Our numerical studies show that our proposed WLPD rule can outperform LPD and serve as an effective binary classification tool.
Epithelial cadherin regulates transition between the naïve and primed pluripotent states in mouse embryonic stem cells
Authors: Sharaireh Aseel M. , Fitzpatrick Lorna M. , Ward Chris M. , McKay Tristan R. , Unwin Richard D.
Published: July 2020

Inhibition of E-cad in mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) leads to a switch from LIF-BMP to Activin/Nodal-dependent pluripotency, consistent with transition from a naïve to primed pluripotent phenotype. We have used both genetic ablation and steric inhibition of E-cad function in mESCs to assess alterations to phenotype using quantitative mass spectrometry analysis, network models, and functional assays. Proteomic analyses revealed that one third of detected proteins were altered in E-cad null mESCs (Ecad−/− mESCs) compared to wild type (624 proteins were downregulated and 705 were proteins upregulated). Network pathway analysis and subsequent cellular flux assays confirmed a metabolic shift from oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) to aerobic glycolysis, specifically through mitochondrial complex III downregulation and hypoxia inducible factor 1a target upregulation. Central to this was the transcriptional coactivator EP300. E-cad is a well-known tumor suppressor, its downregulation during cancer initiation and metastasis can be linked to the metabolic switch known as Warburg effect. This study highlights a phenomena found in both primed pluripotent state and cancer stemness and links it to loss of E-cad. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD012679.
Mesoscopic numerical simulation of fracture process and failure mechanism of cement mortar
Authors: Peng Yijiang , Chen Ying , Wang Qing , Ying Liping
Published: July 2020

Cement mortar is an important part of building material and a typical cement matrix composite material. In current work, the mechanical properties and failure mechanism of cement mortar under static compression are studied by using the Base Force Element Method (BFEM). The static compression damage program of cement mortar is compiled grounded on the BFEM of the potential energy principle. An elastic polyline damage constitutive model is put forward to express the meso‐damage and evolution process of cement mortar. A 2D random circular aggregate model of cement mortar was established. The numerical simulation of the uniaxial static compression is carried out, the stress–strain curve, damage process, and damage model are obtained. The strength of the interfacial transition zone and the failure process of hardened cement mortar were discussed. A mesoscopic equivalent model is proposed to analyze the mechanical properties of cement mortar by considering the effect of initial porosity.
“English as a tool for empowering women’s educational success”: A case study of a young rural Turkmen woman
Authors: Orazova Gulshirin , Cohen James
Published: July 2020

English has gained in popularity as the world’s lingua franca, inviting individuals and countries to join the international community. Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, the use of English has dramatically increased in Turkmenistan, in Central Asia (CA). Russian was required for securing jobs, professional development, and economic well‐being in CA countries during the time of the Soviet Union, but it has been replaced with English. Using liberal feminist theory (Groenhout, 2002; Tong, 2009) and Norton’s (1995) investment theory, this case study examined the experience of one woman learning English as a foreign language in rural Turkmenistan and its role in her professional trajectory and identity development as an empowered Turkmen woman. The authors show how Ayna, the case study participant, invested in learning English as a child but was originally prohibited from postsecondary education by the family’s matriarch because Ayna is female. Later, with help from her parents and an English tutor, Ayna used her advanced English skills to access postsecondary employment and education, where she was introduced to Western philosophical and sociological texts. Through these experiences Ayna transformed her identity as an empowered woman by increasing her awareness of gender inequality, shifted her perspectives on rural village life, and took on, as she said, “an English‐speaking mindset.”
Ultrasound diagnosis of endometrial cancer by subjective pattern recognition in women with postmenopausal bleeding: prospective inter‐rater agreement and reliability study
Authors: Wong M. , Thanatsis N. , Amin T. , Bean E. , Madhvani K. , Jurkovic D.
Published: July 2020

Objectives

To assess the inter‐rater agreement and reliability of using subjective pattern recognition for diagnosing endometrial cancer (EC) on ultrasound in women with postmenopausal bleeding (PMB).

Methods

This was a prospective cross‐sectional study conducted at a gynecological rapid‐access clinic, between October 2016 and December 2017, in which consecutive women with PMB and endometrial thickness of ≥ 4.5 mm on transvaginal ultrasound examination were included. Women on hormone replacement therapy or tamoxifen and those with a history of primary gynecological malignancy were excluded. Two raters independently performed ultrasound examinations, blinded to each other's findings, and classified women as having uniformly thickened endometrium, benign endometrial polyp or EC, using subjective pattern recognition. Inter‐rater reliability of ultrasound diagnosis was assessed using Cohen's kappa (κ) statistic. All women subsequently underwent either outpatient endometrial biopsy, hysteroscopy or hysterectomy.

Results

Forty women were included in the study, with a median age of 61 (interquartile range (IQR), 57–69) years and a median endometrial thickness of 11.0 (IQR, 6.2–20.3) mm. Final histological analysis confirmed 16 (40%) women with EC, 16 (40%) with benign endometrial polyp, four (10%) with atrophic endometrium, three (8%) with proliferative endometrium and one (3%) with endometrial hyperplasia. Inter‐rater agreement for the ultrasound diagnoses of uniformly thickened endometrium, benign endometrial polyp and EC was 14/16 (87.5%), 22/30 (73.3%) and 28/34 (82.4%), respectively; inter‐rater reliability was good (κ = 0.69; 95% CI, 0.49–0.88). When the ultrasound diagnoses were grouped as either cancer or no cancer, inter‐rater agreement was 85% and inter‐rater reliability was good (κ = 0.78; 95% CI, 0.61–0.95). Rater A correctly identified 14/16 cases of EC and Rater B identified 15/16. EC was misdiagnosed as benign polyps on ultrasound in two women by Rater A and in one woman by Rater B. The overall accuracies of Rater A and Rater B in differentiating between benign endometrial pathologies and malignancy were 90% and 90%, respectively.

Conclusions

Our results show good inter‐rater reliability of subjective pattern recognition in diagnosing uniformly thickened endometrium, benign endometrial polyp and EC on ultrasound in women with PMB. Our findings should facilitate wider use of subjective pattern recognition in routine clinical practice. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
The influences of plasticizer B2 mass fraction on the performances of CAB/B2 polymer composite materials: Combining experiments and simulations
Authors: Li Jing , Jin Shaohua , Chao Hui , Wang Na , Zhang Guangyuan , Lu Baoping , Chen Kun
Published: July 2020

Cellulose acetate butyrate (CAB)/B2 (50 wt% bis(2,2‐dinitropropyl)‐acetal and 50 wt% bis(2,2‐dinitropropyl)‐formal) polymer composite material is a commonly used binder system to prepare polymer bonded explosives (PBXs). However, few literature report the influence of plasticizer B2 mass fraction on the performance of CAB/B2 polymer composite binder systems. In this study, experiment measurements and computer simulations are utilized to explore the influences of B2 mass fraction on the glass transition temperature, mechanical property, and thermal decomposition of CAB/B2 polymer composite materials. The results show that, with an increase in B2 content, the glass transition temperature and fragility of CAB/B2 are decreased, and the plasticity and ductility of CAB/B2 are enhanced. Moreover, the thermal decomposition mechanism, decomposition products, and decomposition path of CAB/B2 are unchanged with the increase in B2 content. Besides, the researchers also demonstrate that the addition of B2 is positive to the formability of CAB/B2 systems and is negative to the thermal stability of CAB/B2 systems, whereas the content of B2 has little influences on the thermal stability of CAB/B2 systems. The results obtained from this work can provide some guidance for the designs of high‐energy density PBXs.
Fluid-gravity correspondence in the scalar-tensor theory of gravity: (in)equivalence of Einstein and Jordan frames
Authors: Bhattacharya Krishnakanta , Majhi Bibhas Ranjan , Singleton Douglas
Published: July 2020

Abstract

The duality of gravitational dynamics (projected on a null hypersurface) and of fluid dynamics is investigated for the scalar tensor (ST) theory of gravity. The description of ST gravity, in both Einstein and Jordan frames, is analyzed from fluid-gravity viewpoint. In the Einstein frame the dynamical equation for the metric leads to the Damour-Navier- Stokes (DNS) equation with an external forcing term, coming from the scalar field in ST gravity. In the Jordan frame the situation is more subtle. We observe that finding the DNS equation in this frame can lead to two pictures. In one picture, the usual DNS equation is modified by a Coriolis-like force term, which originates completely from the presence of a non-minimally coupled scalar field (ϕ) on the gravity side. Moreover, the identified fluid variables are no longer conformally equivalent with those in the Einstein frame. However, this picture is consistent with the saturation of Kovtun-Son-Starinets (KSS) bound. In the other picture, we find the standard DNS equation (i.e. without the Coriolis-like force), with the fluid variables conformally equivalent with those in Einstein frame. But, the second picture, may not agree with the KSS bound for some values of ϕ. We conclude by rewriting the Raychaudhuri equation and the tidal force equation in terms of the relevant parameters to demonstrate how the expansion scalar and the shear-tensor evolve in the spacetime. Although, the area law of entropy is broken in ST gravity, we show that the rewritten form of Raychaudhuri’s equation correctly results in the generalized second law of black hole thermodynamics.
Cutting model parameters from frame sawing of natural and impregnated Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.)
Authors: Sinn Gerhard , Chuchała Daniel , Orlowski Kazimierz A. , Taube Piotr
Published: July 2020

In this paper, absolute and density normalized cutting model parameters of natural and impregnated Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) are shown and a method for the calculation of their corresponding material properties in the principal material directions of wood is presented. The parameters were determined from measurements of cutting power on a sash gang saw, and are in detail the fracture toughness and the shear yield strength of wood. The cutting model used for fitting the data and calculating the parameters is based on a minimum energy criterion originally developed to describe an orthogonal single tooth cutting process where the chip of an isotropic material is built by shear. The effects of impregnation on wood are clearly visible in cutting power and model parameters, where for large chips less power is required compared to natural wood. Impregnated pine wood shows a reduced value of shear yield strength compared to natural pine whilst the correlated fracture toughness increased. The observed behavior might be explained by a lower moisture content of the impregnated pine compared to natural wood. Orthotropic fracture toughness and shear yield strength constants of natural and impregnated Scots pine might be used to predict cutting power for other cutting geometries and processes like circular sawing.
Gut microbiota and undigested food constituents modify toxin composition and suppress the genotoxicity of a naturally occurring mixture of Alternaria toxins in vitro
Authors: Crudo Francesco , Aichinger Georg , Mihajlovic Jovana , Dellafiora Luca , Varga Elisabeth , Puntscher Hannes , Warth Benedikt , Dall’Asta Chiara , Berry David , Marko Doris
Published: July 2020

Molds of the genus Alternaria produce several mycotoxins, some of which may pose a threat for health due to their genotoxicity. Due to the lack of adequate toxicological and occurrence data, they are currently not regulated. Interactions between mycotoxins, gut microbiota and food constituents might occur after food ingestion, modifying the bioavailability and, therefore, overall toxicity of mycotoxins. The present work aimed to investigate the impact of in vitro short-term fecal incubation on the in vitro DNA-damaging effects exerted by 5 µg/mL of an Alternaria alternata extract, containing, among others, 15 nM alternariol, 12 nM alternariol monomethyl ether, 241 nM altertoxin II and 301 nM stemphyltoxin III, all of which are known as genotoxic. The involvement of microorganisms, undigested food constituents and soluble substances of human fecal samples in modifying the composition and the genotoxicity of the extract was investigated through the application of LC–MS/MS analysis and comet assays in HT-29 cells. Results showed that the potential of the mycotoxins to induce DNA strand breaks was almost completely quenched, even before anaerobic incubation, by contact with the different fractions of the fecal samples, while the potency to induce formamidopyrimidine DNA glycosylase (FPG)-sensitive sites was only slightly reduced. These effects were in line with a reduction of mycotoxin concentrations found in samples analyzed by LC–MS/MS. Although a direct correlation between the metabolic activity of the gut microbiota and modifications in mycotoxin contents was not clearly observed, adsorptive phenomena to bacterial cells and to undigested food constituents might explain the observed modifications.
Arithmetic of p-adic curves and sections of geometrically abelian fundamental groups
Authors: Saïdi Mohamed
Published: July 2020

LetXbe a proper, smooth, and geometrically connected curve of genus$$g(X)\ge 1$$g(X)≥1over ap-adic local field. We prove that there exists an effectively computable open affine subscheme$$U\subset X$$U⊂Xwith the property that$${\text {period}}(X)=1$$period(X)=1, and$${\text {index}}(X)$$index(X)equals 1 or 2 (resp.$${\text {period}}(X)={\text {index}}(X)=1$$period(X)=index(X)=1, assuming$${\text {period}}(X)={\text {index}}(X)$$period(X)=index(X)), if (resp. if and only if) the exact sequence of the geometrically abelian fundamental group ofUsplits. We compute the torsor of splittings of the exact sequence of the geometrically abelian absolute Galois group associated toX, and give a new characterisation of sections of arithmetic fundamental groups of curves overp-adic local fields which are orthogonal to$${\text {Pic}}^0$$Pic0(resp.$${\text {Pic}}^{\wedge }$$Pic∧). As a consequence we observe that thenon-geometric(geometrically pro-p) section constructed by Hoshi [3] is orthogonal to$${\text {Pic}}^0$$Pic0.
Theory of mind in users of anabolic androgenic steroids
Authors: Vaskinn Anja , Hauger Lisa E. , Bjørnebekk Astrid
Published: July 2020

Rationale

Anabolic androgenic steroids are used to improve physical performance or increase lean muscle mass. About one-third of users develop a dependency syndrome, which is characterized by elevated rates of psychopathology, cognitive impairments, and aggressive and antisocial behaviors. The mechanisms behind these intra- and interpersonal problems are not known.

Objective

To examine theory of mind (ToM), i.e., the ability to infer the mental state of others, in users of anabolic androgenic steroids. Reduced ToM may be one factor underlying the interpersonal problems that have been reported with prolonged use of anabolic androgenic steroids.

Methods

The Movie for the Assessment of Social Cognition (MASC) was used to assess ToM. Study participants were male/female weightlifters who used anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS, n = 34/9), who were dependent on anabolic androgenic steroids (AASdep, n = 44/7), and a non-using weightlifting comparison group (WLC, n = 69/16).

Results

Analyses of variance showed that the AASdep group performed significantly worse than the WLC group, for all MASC measures (total ToM, cognitive ToM, affective ToM, overmentalizing/undermentalizing errors). Sex and sex x group interaction effects were non-significant.

Conclusions

Male and female weightlifters who were dependent on anabolic androgenic steroids had impaired ToM. Their reduced social cognition may be one contributing factor to the elevated rates of antisocial behavior reported in this population.
Routine metabolism of Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba) in South Georgia waters: absence of metabolic compensation at its range edge
Authors: Tarling Geraint A.
Published: July 2020

Routine respiration rates in the South Georgia stock of Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba) were measured to compare with previously published measurements on stocks from colder locations further south. Within the natural temperature range of this species (− 1.8° to 5.5 °C), respiration rate data from both the present and previous studies were adequately fitted by a single Arrhenius regression (Q10 of 2.8), although South Georgia krill showed an upward deviation from this regression between 0° and 2 °C (the lower temperature range at South Georgia). Metabolic compensation (i.e. the comparative lowering of respiration rate) at the high temperatures experienced at South Georgia was not apparent, although the higher than predicted metabolic rates at low temperatures suggests acclimation of South Georgia krill to a warm water lifestyle. Weight-specific respiration rate was significantly higher in sub-adults and adults compared to juveniles, highlighting the metabolic burden of reproduction. South Georgia krill showed no further increase in respiration rate when exposed to acute temperatures (5.5–12.2 °C), indicating that they were already at the limit of aerobic capacity by 5.5 °C. Overall, this study shows that even small degrees of additional warming to South Georgia waters are likely to make conditions there metabolically unsustainable for Antarctic krill.
The Smallpox Epidemics in America in the 1700s and the Role of the Surgeons: Lessons to be Learned During the Global Outbreak of COVID‐19
Authors: Hasselgren Per‐Olof
Published: July 2020

Today's COVID‐19 pandemic offers many similarities with previous pandemics hitting our country. In particular, the smallpox epidemics during the 1700s threatened the lives of multitudes and created panic and fear in the society, similar to the situation caused by the coronavirus. Remedies that were instituted, especially inoculations, were met with opposition and even violence when first introduced. The newspapers were filled with headlines reflecting the disputes. There was a “six feet rule” during the smallpox epidemics, although it had a different meaning than today. Politicians and other leaders of the society were engaged in the war against the infection. Boston became involved in the fight against the smallpox by Dr. Zabdiel Boylston's and Rev. Cotton Mather's introduction of inoculations. When George Washington realized the benefits of the procedure and ordered mass inoculations of the Continental Army, it became an important factor in winning not only the fight against smallpox but the Revolutionary War as well. Looking back at history, realizing that we have survived previous outbreaks of devastating diseases, can provide hope during the current pandemic.
Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMP‐2) and Tissue Inhibitors of Metalloproteinases (TIMP‐2) in Patients with Inguinal Hernias
Authors: Wang Dianchen , Han Yuqian , Xu Xiuli , Chen Jianmin , Chen Yake
Published: July 2020

Background

The development of inguinal hernia might be related with collagen metabolism, which was regulated by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). The aim of this study was to evaluate the mRNA and protein expression levels of MMP‐2 and TIMP‐2 in anterior rectus sheath fascia to investigate the function of them in inguinal hernia formation.

Methods

The study enrolled 48 primary inguinal hernia patients: 32 participants had indirect inguinal hernia and 16 patients suffered direct inguinal hernia. Specimens were taken from the anterior rectus sheath fascia. The amounts of MMP‐2 mRNA and TIMP‐2 mRNA were evaluated by real‐time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR), and immunohistochemistry was performed to assess the protein expression of them.

Results

The mRNA and protein expression levels of MMP‐2 in direct group were significantly higher than those of control group (P < 0.05) and indirect group (P < 0.05), while the expression levels of TIMP‐2 in direct group were significantly lower than those of control group (P < 0.05) and indirect group (P < 0.05). The ratio of MMP‐2 mRNA/TIMP‐2 mRNA in direct group was significantly higher than that of control group (P < 0.05) and indirect group (P < 0.05), and the ratio of indirect group was significantly higher than that of control group (P < 0.05). According to receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, MMP‐2/TIMP‐2 can diagnose direct hernia from controls with area under the curve (AUC) of 0.950 and indirect hernia with AUC of 0.730 effectively.

Conclusions

Elevated level of MMP‐2 and decreased level of TIMP‐2 may play a role in direct inguinal hernia development. The ratio of MMP‐2/TIMP‐2 may be useful in identification of direct hernia.
Global change of surgical and oncological clinical practice in urology during early COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Dotzauer Robert , Böhm Katharina , Brandt Maximilian Peter , Sparwasser Peter , Haack Maximilian , Frees Sebastian. Karl , Kamal Mohamed Mostafa , Mager René , Jäger Wolfgang , Höfner Thomas , Tsaur Igor , Haferkamp Axel , Borgmann Hendrik
Published: July 2020

Objectives

While the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic captures healthcare resources worldwide, data on the impact of prioritization strategies in urology during pandemic are absent. We aimed to quantitatively assess the global change in surgical and oncological clinical practice in the early COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

In this cross-sectional observational study, we designed a 12-item online survey on the global effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on clinical practice in urology. Demographic survey data, change of clinical practice, current performance of procedures, and current commencement of treatment for 5 conditions in medical urological oncology were evaluated.

Results

235 urologists from 44 countries responded. Out of them, 93% indicated a change of clinical practice due to COVID-19. In a 4-tiered surgery down-escalation scheme, 44% reported to make first cancellations, 23% secondary cancellations, 20% last cancellations and 13% emergency cases only. Oncological surgeries had low cancellation rates (%): transurethral resection of bladder tumor (27%), radical cystectomy (21–24%), nephroureterectomy (21%), radical nephrectomy (18%), and radical orchiectomy (8%). (Neo)adjuvant/palliative treatment is currently not started by more than half of the urologists. COVID-19 high-risk-countries had higher total cancellation rates for non-oncological procedures (78% vs. 68%, p = 0.01) and were performing oncological treatment for metastatic diseases at a lower rate (35% vs. 48%, p = 0.02).

Conclusion

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected clinical practice of 93% of urologists worldwide. The impact of implementing surgical prioritization protocols with moderate cancellation rates for oncological surgeries and delay or reduction in (neo)adjuvant/palliative treatment will have to be evaluated after the pandemic.
Cooperative foraging during larval stage affects fitness in Drosophila
Authors: Dombrovski Mark , Kuhar Rives , Mitchell Alexandra , Shelton Hunter , Condron Barry
Published: July 2020

Cooperative behavior can confer advantages to animals. This is especially true for cooperative foraging which provides fitness benefits through more efficient acquisition and consumption of food. While examples of group foraging have been widely described, the principles governing formation of such aggregations and rules that determine group membership remain poorly understood. Here, we take advantage of an experimental model system featuring cooperative foraging behavior in Drosophila. Under crowded conditions, fly larvae form coordinated digging groups (clusters), where individuals are linked together by sensory cues and group membership requires prior experience. However, fitness benefits of Drosophila larval clustering remain unknown. We demonstrate that animals raised in crowded conditions on food partially processed by other larvae experience a developmental delay presumably due to the decreased nutritional value of the substrate. Intriguingly, same conditions promote the formation of cooperative foraging clusters which further extends larval stage compared to non-clustering animals. Remarkably, this developmental retardation also results in a relative increase in wing size, serving an indicator of adult fitness. Thus, we find that the clustering-induced developmental delay is accompanied by fitness benefits. Therefore, cooperative foraging, while delaying development, may have evolved to give Drosophila larvae benefits when presented with competition for limited food resources.
Off-the-shelf barrier for emergency intubation in the cardiac catheterization laboratory during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic
Authors: Scheller Bruno , Vukadinovic Davor , Ewen Sebastian , Mahfoud Felix
Published: July 2020

With the spread of SARS-CoV-2, it is expected that cases of acute coronary syndrome in the setting of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) develop. As expensive and sophisticated protection devices are not widely available, we have been working on a simple, off-the-shelf protection device for endotracheal intubation of potentially infected patients. For this purpose, we used a large transparent plastic bag (such as the sterile protective cover of the lead glass shield) for protection from airborne infections. The cover is moved over the patient's head from cranial to caudal, covering the catheter table including the torso with no need for patient mobilization. The intubation is done conventionally under direct visual control.
Insights into the choice between intravenous infusion and subcutaneous injection: physician and patient characteristics driving treatment in SLE
Authors: Bell Christopher F. , Lau Matthew , Lee Melody , Poulos Christine
Published: July 2020

Introduction/objectives

Multiple modes of administration are available for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) treatments. This study examined patient and physician characteristics associated with the choice of weekly subcutaneous (SC) injection or monthly intravenous (IV) infusion for an unspecified SLE treatment.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional, US web-based survey using a direct elicitation, stated-preference methodology (HO-16-16706). Two hundred patients and 200 physicians were asked to choose between IV or SC administration in a hypothetical scenario. Pairwise and multivariate analyses estimated the odds ratio (OR) for the likelihood of choosing SC over IV for respondent characteristics.

Results

Among patients, taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs increased the likelihood of choosing SC injection (OR 3.884), whilst having SLE-related skin problems, a fear of needles or self-injection, and never needing help around the house decreased the likelihood (OR 0.28, 0.13, 0.12, respectively; all p ≤ 0.05). Among physicians, > 95% recommended SC injection for patients who live or work far from an infusion center, prefer SC administration, and never or rarely miss medication doses. Physician characteristics including age and treatment practice also influenced choice.

Conclusions

Patient and physician characteristics influence choice of SC versus IV therapy for SLE. These findings might inform shared decision-making, which could lead to improved patient outcomes.

Key Points• Data regarding patient and physician preference for different modes of administration of SLE therapy are sparse.• This cross-sectional, US web-based study showed that patient and physician characteristics influence choice of SC versus IV therapy for SLE.• A degree of disconnect exists between how factors influence patients’ choice and how those characteristics influence physicians’ choice of SLE treatment mode of administration.• The findings from this study might inform shared decision-making, which could improve alignment between treatment choice and patient preferences, treatment satisfaction, adherence, and improved patient outcomes.
Mixed-integer optimal control under minimum dwell time constraints
Authors: Zeile Clemens , Robuschi Nicolò , Sager Sebastian
Published: July 2020

Tailored Mixed-Integer Optimal Control policies for real-world applications usually have to avoid very short successive changes of the active integer control.Minimum dwell time(MDT) constraints express this requirement and can be included into the combinatorial integral approximation decomposition, which solves mixed-integer optimal control problems (MIOCPs) to$$\epsilon $$ϵ-optimality by solving one continuous nonlinear program and one mixed-integer linear program (MILP). Within this work, we analyze the integrality gap of MIOCPs under MDT constraints by providing tight upper bounds on the MILP subproblem. We suggest different rounding schemes for constructing MDT feasible control solutions, e.g., we propose a modification of Sum Up Rounding. A numerical study supplements the theoretical results and compares objective values of integer feasible and relaxed solutions.
Block preconditioners for mixed-dimensional discretization of flow in fractured porous media
Authors: Budiša Ana , Hu Xiaozhe
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we are interested in an efficient numerical method for the mixed-dimensional approach to modeling single-phase flow in fractured porous media. The model introduces fractures and their intersections as lower-dimensional structures, and the mortar variable is used for flow coupling between the matrix and fractures. We consider a stable mixed finite element discretization of the problem, which results in a parameter-dependent linear system. For this, we develop block preconditioners based on the well-posedness of the discretization choice. The preconditioned iterative method demonstrates robustness with regard to discretization and physical parameters. The analytical results are verified on several examples of fracture network configurations, and notable results in reduction of number of iterations and computational time are obtained.
Freshwater phytoplankton diversity: models, drivers and implications for ecosystem properties
Authors: Borics Gábor , Abonyi András , Salmaso Nico , Ptacnik Robert
Published: July 2020

Our understanding on phytoplankton diversity has largely been progressing since the publication of Hutchinson on the paradox of the plankton. In this paper, we summarise some major steps in phytoplankton ecology in the context of mechanisms underlying phytoplankton diversity. Here, we provide a framework for phytoplankton community assembly and an overview of measures on taxonomic and functional diversity. We show how ecological theories on species competition together with modelling approaches and laboratory experiments helped understand species coexistence and maintenance of diversity in phytoplankton. The non-equilibrium nature of phytoplankton and the role of disturbances in shaping diversity are also discussed. Furthermore, we discuss the role of water body size, productivity of habitats and temperature on phytoplankton species richness, and how diversity may affect the functioning of lake ecosystems. At last, we give an insight into molecular tools that have emerged in the last decades and argue how it has broadened our perspective on microbial diversity. Besides historical backgrounds, some critical comments have also been made.
Profiling Metacognition in Binge Eating Disorder
Authors: Palmieri Sara , Gentile Nicola , Da Ros Annalisa , Spada Marcantonio M.
Published: July 2020

Research has shown that metacognition may play a role in problem eating. In this study we explored whether aspects of metacognition are relevant to the understanding of binge eating in patients with Binge Eating Disorder. We aimed to ascertain: (1) the presence of metacognitive beliefs about binge eating; (2) the goal of, and stop signal for, binge eating; and (3) the impact of binge eating on self-consciousness. Ten Binge Eating Disorder patients took part in the study and were assessed using the metacognitive profiling semi-structured interview. Results suggested that all patients endorsed both positive and negative metacognitive beliefs about binge eating. The goals of binge eating were stop thinking about personal concerns and improve emotional state. All patients reported that they did not know when these goals had been reached. The stop signals for binge eating included physical discomfort, beliefs about binge eating not being the best way to solve problems, and environmental stimuli. All patients also confirmed that a reduction in self-consciousness occurred during a binge eating episode. The results of this study confirm that metacognition may indeed be relevant to the understanding of Binge Eating Disorder.
Stress-Energy in Liouville Conformal Field Theory
Authors: Kupiainen Antti , Oikarinen Joona
Published: July 2020

We construct the stress-energy tensor correlation functions in probabilistic Liouville conformal field theory (LCFT) on the two-dimensional sphere $${\mathbb {S}}^2$$

S

2

by studying the variation of the LCFT correlation functions with respect to a smooth Riemannian metric on $${\mathbb {S}}^2$$

S

2

. In particular we derive conformal Ward identities for these correlation functions. This forms the basis for the construction of a representation of the Virasoro algebra on the canonical Hilbert space of the LCFT. In Kupiainen et al. (Commun Math Phys 371:1005–1069, 2019) the conformal Ward identities were derived for one and two stress-energy tensor insertions using a different definition of the stress-energy tensor and Gaussian integration by parts. By defining the stress-energy correlation functions as functional derivatives of the LCFT correlation functions and using the smoothness of the LCFT correlation functions proven in Oikarinen (Ann Henri Poincaré 20(7):2377–2406, 2019) allows us to control an arbitrary number of stress-energy tensor insertions needed for representation theory.
The perceived well-being and health costs of exiting self-employment
Authors: Nikolova Milena , Nikolaev Boris , Popova Olga
Published: July 2020

We explore how involuntary and voluntary exits from self-employment affect life and health satisfaction. To that end, we use rich longitudinal data from the German Socio-Economic Panel from 1985 to 2017 and a difference-in-differences estimator. We find that while transitioning from self-employment to salaried employment brings small improvements in health and life satisfaction, the negative psychological costs of business failure (i.e., switching from self-employment to unemployment) are substantial and exceed the costs of involuntarily losing a salaried job. Meanwhile, leaving self-employment has no consequences for self-reported physical health and behaviors such as smoking and drinking, implying that the costs of losing self-employment are mainly psychological. Moreover, former business owners fail to adapt to an involuntary self-employment exit even 2 or more years after this traumatic event. Our findings imply that policies encouraging entrepreneurship should also carefully consider the nonmonetary implications of business failure.
An adaptive system for autonomous driving
Authors: Zimmermann Martin , Wotawa Franz
Published: July 2020

Having systems that can adapt themselves in case of faults or changing environmental conditions is of growing interest for industry and especially for the automotive industry considering autonomous driving. In autonomous driving, it is vital to have a system that is able to cope with faults in order to enable the system to reach a safe state. In this paper, we present an adaptive control method that can be used for this purpose. The method selects alternative actions so that given goal states can be reached, providing the availability of a certain degree of redundancy. The action selection is based on weight models that are adapted over time, capturing the success rate of certain actions. Besides the method, we present a Java implementation and its validation based on two case studies motivated by the requirements of the autonomous driving domain. We show that the presented approach is applicable both in case of environmental changes but also in case of faults occurring during operation. In the latter case, the methods provide an adaptive behavior very much close to the optimal selection.
Diagnosis and treatment of isolated snoring—open questions and areas for future research
Authors: Hofauer B. , Braumann B. , Heiser C. , Herzog M. , Maurer J. T. , Plößl S. , Sommer J. U. , Steffen A. , Verse T. , Stuck B. A.
Published: July 2020

Study objectives

Snoring is a common phenomenon which is generated by vibration of soft tissue of the upper airway during sleep. Due to the high incidence of isolated snoring and the substantial burden for the patient and the bed partner, a thorough examination and appropriate therapy are required. Many recommendations for the treatment of isolated snoring are either not evidence-based or are derived from recommendations for the management of obstructive sleep apnea. Therefore, the aim of this study is the identification and description of open questions in the diagnosis and treatment of isolated snoring and the illustration of areas for further research.

Methods

In the context of the development of the new version of the German guideline “Diagnosis and treatment of isolated snoring in adults,” a multidisciplinary team of experts performed a systematic literature search on the relevant medical data and rated the current evidence regarding the key diagnostic and therapeutic measures for snoring.

Results

The systematic literature review identified 2293 articles. As a major inclusion criterion, only studies on primary snoring based on objective sleep medical assessment were selected. After screening and evaluation, 33 full-text articles remained for further analysis. Based on these articles, open questions and areas for future research were identified for this review.

Conclusion

Several major gaps in the literature on the diagnosis and treatment of isolated snoring were identified. For the majority of diagnostic and therapeutic measures for snoring, high-level scientific evidence is still lacking.
Evaluation of the Swat River, Northern Pakistan, water quality using multivariate statistical techniques and water quality index (WQI) model
Authors: Jehan Shah , Ullah Ihsan , Khan Sardar , Muhammad Said , Khattak Seema Anjum , Khan Tariq
Published: July 2020

This study evaluates the characteristics of water along the Swat River, Northern Pakistan. For this purpose, water samples (n = 30) were collected and analyzed for physicochemical parameters including heavy metals (HM). The mean concentrations of physicochemical parameters and HM were within the drinking water guideline values set by the World Health Organization (WHO 2011) except 34%, 60%, and 56% of copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), and lead (Pb), respectively. Pollution sources were identified by various multivariate statistical techniques including correlation analysis (CA) and principal component analysis (PCA) indicating different origins both naturally and anthropogenically. Results of the water quality index (WQI) ranged from 13.58 to 209 with an average value of 77 suggesting poor water quality for drinking and domestic purposes. The poor water quality was mainly related to high sodium (alkalinity) and salinity hazards showing > 27% and 20% water samples have poor alkalinity and salinity hazards, respectively. Hazard quotient (HQ) and hazard index (HI) were used to determine the health risk of HM in the study area. For water-related health risk, HQingestion, HQdermal, and HI values were > 1, indicating noncarcinogenic health risk (NCR) posed by these HM to the exposed population.
The Problem of Indifference to Suffering in the Mahābhārata Tradition
Authors: Sharma Vishal
Published: July 2020

In theMahābhārata, Kṛṣṇa is regularly accused of ignoring harm that befalls its various characters. In fact, the Sanskrit verbupekṣ(“to overlook, disregard, or ignore”) is applied more consistently to Kṛṣṇa than any other figure in the epic. Through its use, both theMahābhārataand the tradition raise a question: how can Kṛṣṇa be indifferent to two genocides (the massacre of the Kurus and the Yādavas) and the mistreatment of Draupadī? Although previous studies on theodicies in the epic have focused on the issue of Kṛṣṇa’s omnipotence (or lack thereof) in theMahābhārata, this article argues that the question of omnipotence is irrelevant because Kṛṣṇa does not want to prevent the suffering of a large-scale war—his neglect isintentional. From this question of (intentional) neglect, the theological problem of indifference to suffering arises for these early readers of theMahābhārata: under what circumstances is it justified for Kṛṣṇa to neglect the suffering of others, despite being able to prevent it? In presenting this problem, this article also draws attention to the importance of commentaries on the epics and Purāṇas as a source of study for vexed ethical and theological questions such as this one.
Combining visual analytics and case-based reasoning for rupture risk assessment of intracranial aneurysms
Authors: Spitz Lena , Niemann Uli , Beuing Oliver , Neyazi Belal , Sandalcioglu I. Erol , Preim Bernhard , Saalfeld Sylvia
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Medical case-based reasoning solves problems by applying experience gained from the outcome of previous treatments of the same kind. Particularly for complex treatment decisions, for example, incidentally found intracranial aneurysms (IAs), it can support the medical expert. IAs bear the risk of rupture and may lead to subarachnoidal hemorrhages. Treatment needs to be considered carefully, since it may entail unnecessary complications for IAs with low rupture risk. With a rupture risk prediction based on previous cases, the treatment decision can be supported.

Methods

We present an interactive visual exploration tool for the case-based reasoning of IAs. In presence of a new aneurysm of interest, our application provides visual analytics techniques to identify the most similar cases with respect to morphology. The clinical expert can obtain the treatment, including the treatment outcome, for these cases and transfer it to the aneurysm of interest. Our application comprises a heatmap visualization, an adapted scatterplot matrix and fully or partially directed graphs with a circle- or force-directed layout to guide the interactive selection process. To fit the demands of clinical applications, we further integrated an interactive identification of outlier cases as well as an interactive attribute selection for the similarity calculation. A questionnaire evaluation with six trained physicians was used.

Result

Our application allows for case-based reasoning of IAs based on a reference data set. Three classifiers summarize the rupture state of the most similar cases. Medical experts positively evaluated the application.

Conclusion

Our case-based reasoning application combined with visual analytic techniques allows for representation of similar IAs to support the clinician. The graphical representation was rated very useful and provides visual information of the similarity of the k most similar cases.
Bounded Evaluation: Querying Big Data with Bounded Resources
Authors: Cao Yang , Fan Wen-Fei , Yuan Teng-Fei
Published: July 2020

This work aims to reduce queries on big data to computations on small data, and hence make querying big data possible under bounded resources. A query Q is boundedly evaluable when posed on any big dataset $${\cal D}$$
D
, there exists a fraction $${{\cal D}_Q}$$

D
Q

of $${\cal D}$$
D
such that $$Q({\cal D}) = Q({{\cal D}_Q})$$
Q
(
D
)
=
Q
(

D
Q

)
, and the cost of identifying $${{\cal D}_Q}$$

D
Q

is independent of the size of $${\cal D}$$
D
. It has been shown that with an auxiliary structure known as access schema, many queries in relational algebra (RA) are boundedly evaluable under the set semantics of RA. This paper extends the theory of bounded evaluation to RAaggr, i.e., RA extended with aggregation, under the bag semantics. (1) We extend access schema to bag access schema, to help us identify $${{\cal D}_Q}$$

D
Q

for RAaggr queries Q. (2) While it is undecidable to determine whether an RAaggr query is boundedly evaluable under a bag access schema, we identify special cases that are decidable and practical. (3) In addition, we develop an effective syntax for bounded RAaggr queries, i.e., a core subclass of boundedly evaluable RAaggr queries without sacrificing their expressive power. (4) Based on the effective syntax, we provide efficient algorithms to check the bounded evaluability of RAaggr queries and to generate query plans for bounded RAaggr queries. (5) As proof of concept, we extend PostgreSQL to support bounded evaluation. We experimentally verify that the extended system improves performance by orders of magnitude.