bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Rooftop Photovoltaics on Building Cooling Demand and Sensible Heat Flux Into the Environment for an Installation on a White Roof
Authors: Brown Kyle E. , Baniassadi Amir , Pham Julie V. , Sailor David J. , Phelan Patrick E.
Published: February 2020

Photovoltaic (PV) panels are commonly used for on-site generation of electricity in urban environments, specifically on rooftops. However, their implementation on rooftops poses potential (positive and negative) impacts on the heating and cooling energy demand of buildings, and on the surrounding urban climate. The adverse consequences can be compounded if PV is installed on top of an otherwise highly reflective (“white”) rooftop. This study investigates these impacts on a test building in Tempe, AZ, by directly measuring the temperature of all involved surfaces. These measurements are supplemented by whole-building energy simulations to model the energy implications for archetypical residential and retail buildings. This includes calculations of the ratio of the energy demand penalty to electricity generation as well as the net sensible heat flux to the ambient environment. Results indicate that the summertime cooling energy penalty due to blockage of outgoing longwave radiation can be 4.9—11.2% of the PV electricity generation. The addition of PV to the white roof resulted in a small decrease in the computed sensible heat flux at night, but a daytime increase in sensible flux by more than a factor of 10 (from less than 25 W/m2 for the white roof alone, to more than 250 W/m2 when PV is added to the roof). This study highlights the potential unintended consequences of rooftop PV under certain conditions and provides a broader perspective for building designers and urban planners.
Efficient Distortion Prediction of Additively Manufactured Parts Using Bayesian Model Transfer Between Material Systems
Authors: Francis Jack , Sabbaghi Arman , Ravi Shankar M. , Ghasri-Khouzani Morteza , Bian Linkan
Published: February 2020

Distortion in laser-based additive manufacturing (LBAM) is a critical issue that adversely affects the geometric integrity of additively manufactured parts and generally exhibits a complicated dependence on the underlying material. The differences in properties between distinct materials prevent the immediate application of a distortion model learned for one material to another, which introduces the challenge in LBAM of learning a distortion model for a new material system given past experiments. Current methods for investigating the distortion of different material systems typically involve finite element analysis or a large number of experiments in an empirical study. However, these methods do not learn from previous experiments and can incur significant costs in terms of computation, time, or resources. We propose a Bayesian model transfer methodology that is both physics-based and data-driven to leverage past experiments on previously studied material systems for more efficient distortion modeling of new systems. This method transfers distortion models across distinct materials based on the statistical effect equivalence framework by formulating the differences between two materials as a lurking variable. Our method reduces the experimentation and effort needed for specifying distortion models for new material systems. We validate our methodology in a case study of distortion model transfer from Ti–6Al–4V disks to 316L stainless steel disks. This case study is the first instance of model transfer between material systems and illustrates the ability of the Bayesian model transfer methodology to address the issue of comprehensive distortion modeling across varying material systems in LBAM.
Noise-induced enhancement of envelope following responses in normal-hearing adults
Authors: Billings Curtis J. , Gordon Samuel Y. , McMillan Garnett P. , Gallun Frederick J. , Molis Michelle R. , Konrad-Martin Dawn
Published: February 2020

Measures of signal-in-noise neural encoding may improve understanding of the hearing-in-noise difficulties experienced by many individuals in everyday life. Usually noise results in weaker envelope following responses (EFRs); however, some studies demonstrate EFR enhancements. This experiment tested whether noise-induced enhancements in EFRs are demonstrated with simple 500- and 1000-Hz pure tones amplitude modulated at 110 Hz. Most of the 12 young normal-hearing participants demonstrated enhanced encoding of the 110-Hz fundamental in a noise background compared to quiet; in contrast, responses at the harmonics were decreased in noise relative to quiet conditions. Possible mechanisms of such an enhancement are discussed.
Improving speaker diarization for naturalistic child-adult conversational interactions using contextual information
Authors: Kumar Manoj , Kim So Hyun , Lord Catherine , Narayanan Shrikanth
Published: February 2020

While deep learning has driven recent improvements in audio speaker diarization, it often faces performance issues in challenging interaction scenarios and varied acoustic settings such as between a child and adult (caregiver/examiner). In this work, the role of contextual factors that affect diarization performance in such interactions is analyzed. Factors that affect each type of diarization error are identified. Furthermore, a DNN is trained on diarization outputs in conjunction with the factors to improve diarization performance. The results demonstrate the usefulness of incorporating context in improving diarization performance of child-adult interactions in clinical settings.
Objectively measured near work, outdoor exposure and myopia in children
Authors: Wen Longbo , Cao Yingpin , Cheng Qian , Li Xiaoning , Pan Lun , Li Lei , Zhu HaoGang , Lan Weizhong , Yang Zhikuan
Published: February 2020

Aim

To reassess the association between near work, outdoor exposure and myopia in children through an objective approach.

Methods

Eighty-six children (10.13±0.48 years) were asked to wear Clouclip, a newly developed wearable device that is able to measure working distance and eye-level illuminance, for a complete week to obtain information on near work and outdoor exposure. The mean daily Clouclip wearing time was 11.72±1.14 hour. The spherical equivalent refraction was determined by cycloplegic autorefraction.

Results

The myopic children were found to be exposed to light intensities >3000 lux (0.68±0.50 hour vs 1.02±0.53 hour, p=0.012) and >5000 lux (0.42±0.35 hour vs 0.63±0.31 hour, p=0.004) for shorter durations on average each day than the non-myopic children. Additionally, the myopic children spent more time on average each day on activities at a distance of <20 cm than non-myopic children (1.89±0.61 hour vs 1.52±0.77 hour, p=0.019). In the multivariate logistic analysis, the time spent with a higher light intensity (>3000 lux (OR=0.27, 95% CI: 0.10 to 0.72, p=0.009); >5000 lux (OR=0.11, 95% CI: 0.02 to 0.56, p=0.008)) and a working distance of <20 cm (in a circumstance of >3000 lux (OR=1.17, 95% CI: 1.09 to 1.86, p=0.038) or in that of >5000 lux (OR=1.12, 95% CI: 1.03 to 1.77, p=0.046)) were the independent protective factors and risk factors, respectively.

Conclusion

The current study provides novel evidence, based on objective data, to support the association between the intensity of near work, light intensity and myopia. However, the causality and the dose-effect relationship need to be investigated further.
Quality improvement programme reduces errors in oral medication preparation and administration through feeding tubes
Authors: Pereira Rosana Aparecida , de Souza Fabiana Bolela , Rigobello Mayara Carvalho Godinho , Pereira José Rafael , da Costa Laís Rosa Moreno , Gimenes Fernanda Raphael Escobar
Published: February 2020

Background

Patients with nasogastric/nasoenteric tube (NGT/NET) are at increased risk of adverse outcomes due to errors occurring during oral medication preparation and administration.

Aim

To implement a quality improvement programme to reduce the proportion of errors in oral medication preparation and administration through NGT/NET in adult patients.

Methods

An observational study was carried out, comparing outcome measures before and after implementation of the integrated quality programme to improve oral medication preparation and administration through NGT/NET. A collaborative approach based on Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycle was used and feedback was given during multidisciplinary meetings.

Interventions

Good practice guidance for oral medication preparation and administration through NGT/NET was developed and implemented at the hospital sites; nurses were given formal training to use the good practice guidance; a printed list of oral medications that should never be crushed was provided to all members of the multidisciplinary team, and a printed table containing therapeutic alternatives for drugs that should never be crushed was provided to prescribers at the prescribing room.

Results

Improvement was observed in the following measures: crushing enteric-coated tablets and mixing drugs during medication preparation (from 54.9% in phase I to 26.2% in phase II; p 0.0010) and triturating pharmaceutical form of modified action or dragee (from 32.8 in phase I to 19.7 in phase II; p 0.0010). Worsening was observed though in the following measures: crush compressed to a fine and homogeneous powder (from 7.4%% in phase I to 95% phase II; p 0.0010) and feeding tube obstruction (from 41.8% in phase I to 52.5% phase II; p 0.0950).

Conclusion

Our results highlight how a collaborative quality improvement approach based on PDSA cycles can meet the challenge of reducing the proportion of errors in oral medication preparation and administration through NGT/NET in adult patients. Some changes may lead to unintended consequences though. Thus, continuous monitoring for these consequences will help caregivers to prevent poor patient outcomes.
Association between occupational solvent exposure and cognitive performance in the French CONSTANCES study
Authors: Letellier Noémie , Choron Guillaume , Artaud Fanny , Descatha Alexis , Goldberg Marcel , Zins Marie , Elbaz Alexis , Berr C
Published: February 2020

Objective

The objective of this study was to evaluate the association between occupational exposure to solvents and cognitive performance in middle-aged and early-ageing participants, taking into account the working environment.

Methods

In the French Cohorte des consultants des Centres d'examens de santé (CONSTANCES) cohort, 41 854 participants aged 45–69 years completed a self-reported, lifetime occupational exposure questionnaire. Exposure to solvents (gasoline for hand washing, trichloroethylene, white spirit, cellulosic thinner) was first considered as a binary variable (exposed/not exposed). We computed number of solvent types to which participants were exposed, solvent exposure time and delay since last exposure. Cognitive performance was assessed and analysed in reference to norms of neuropsychological battery previously established in CONSTANCES according to age, sex and education. Multiple linear and modified Poisson regression were used to estimate the associations between solvent exposure and cognitive performance adjusting for individual and environmental characteristics, and working conditions (night shift, repetitive and noisy work).

Results

Men had a greater risk of global cognitive impairment when they were exposed to gasoline (relative risk (RR)=1.12, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.22), white spirit (RR=1.14, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.25) or cellulosic thinner (RR=1.17, 95% CI 1.06 to 1.31) at the workplace, even after adjusting for confounders. Women exposed to white spirit or exposed for more than 20 years had poorer global cognitive performance.

Conclusion

These findings strengthen our understanding of the detrimental effect of solvent exposure on cognitive health not only in men but also in women for the first time, in a large general population middle-aged and early-ageing sample from France, taking into account working conditions.
Effects of humeral intraosseous epinephrine in a pediatric hypovolemic cardiac arrest porcine model
Authors: Neill Michael James , Burgert James M , Blouin Dawn , Tigges Benjamin , Rodden Kari , Roberts Rachel , Anderson Phillip , Hallquist Travis , Navarro John , O'Sullivan Joseph , Johnson Don
Published: February 2020

Background

Aims of the study were to determine the effects of humerus intraosseous (HIO) versus intravenous (IV) administration of epinephrine in a hypovolemic, pediatric pig model. We compared concentration maximum (Cmax), time to maximum concentration (Tmax), mean concentration (MC) over time and return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC).

Methods

Pediatric pig were randomly assigned to each group (HIO (n=7); IV (n=7); cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)+defibrillation (defib) (n=7) and CPR-only group (n=5)). The pig were anesthetized; 35% of the blood volume was exsanguinated. pigs were in arrest for 2 min, and then CPR was performed for 2 min. Epinephrine 0.01 mg/kg was administered 4 min postarrest by either route. Samples were collected over 5 min. After sample collection, epinephrine was administered every 4 min or until ROSC. The Cmax and MC were analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography. Defibrillation began at 3 min postarrest and administered every 2 min or until ROSC or endpoint at 20 min after initiation of CPR.

Results

Analysis indicated that the Cmax was significantly higher in the IV versus HIO group (p=0.001). Tmax was shorter in the IV group but was not significantly different (p=0.789). The MC was significantly greater in the IV versus HIO groups at 90 and 120 s (p<0.05). The IV versus HIO had a significantly higher MC (p=0.001). χ2indicated the IV group (5 out of 7) had significantly higher rate of ROSC than the HIO group (1 out of 7) (p=0.031). One subject in the CPR+defib and no subjects in the CPR-only groups achieved ROSC.

Discussion

Based on the results of our study, the IV route is more effective than the HIO route.
Stop the Bleed: gap analysis and geographical evaluation of incident locations
Authors: Tsui Michelle , Carroll Shannon L. , Dye Daniel W. , Smedley W. Andrew , Gilbert Aidan D. , Griffin Russell L. , McGwin Gerald , Stephens Shannon W. , Kerby Jeffrey D. , Jansen Jan O.
Published: February 2020

Background

Trauma is a major public health issue. In 2015, the White House launched the “Stop the Bleed” (STB) campaign, which aims to equip would-be bystanders with the ability and equipment to assist in bleeding emergencies. This study sought to estimate the number of patients who might benefit from STB intervention, in an everyday setting, and their spatial injury profile.

Methods

This is a retrospective analysis of trauma registry and medical examiners’ data, collected between 2013 and 2017. The majority of patients were male. The median age was 32 years. Incidents were geocoded by ZIP code, and mapped using Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS).

Results

We identified 139 patients from medical examiner records and UAB’s trauma registry who might have benefitted from STB intervention. The number of incidents per year ranged from 22 to 35, averaging 2.3 incidents per month. There was no evidence of geographical clustering, although the small number of incidents precluded a formal geostatistical analysis.

Conclusion

The number of patients who might benefit from STB interventions on a daily basis is small, and incident locations are difficult to predict. Educating the public in how to stop bleeding is appealing, but providing easy and widespread access to STB kits may be difficult. Although there are parallels to the provision of cardiopulmonary resuscitation and defibrillation for cardiac arrest, there are also differences, which should not be overlooked.
Hadron–Hadron interactions from $$N_\mathrm{{f}}=2+1+1$$ lattice QCD: the $$\rho \,$$-resonance
Authors: Werner M. , Ueding M. , Helmes C. , Jost C. , Knippschild B. , Kostrzewa B. , Liu C. , Liu L. , Metsch B. , Petschlies M. , Urbach C.
Published: February 2020

We present a lattice QCD investigation of the $$\rho $$ρ-meson with $$N_\mathrm{{f}}=2+1+1$$Nf=2+1+1 dynamical quark flavours for the first time. The calculation is performed based on gauge configuration ensembles produced by the ETM Collaboration with three lattice spacing values and pion masses ranging from 230 to 500 MeV. Applying the Lüscher method phase-shift curves are determined for all ensembles separately. Assuming a Breit–Wigner form, the $$\rho $$ρ-meson mass and width are determined by a fit to these phase-shift curves. Mass and width combined are then extrapolated to the chiral limit, while lattice artefacts are not detectable within our statistical uncertainties. For the $$\rho $$ρ-meson mass extrapolated to the physical point we find good agreement with experiment. The corresponding decay width differs by about two standard deviations from the experimental value.
Two-real-scalar-singlet extension of the SM: LHC phenomenology and benchmark scenarios
Authors: Robens Tania , Stefaniak Tim , Wittbrodt Jonas
Published: February 2020

We investigate the LHC phenomenology of a model where the Standard Model (SM) scalar sector is extended by two real scalar singlets. A$${{\mathbb {Z}}_2} \otimes {{\mathbb {Z}}_2} '$$Z2⊗Z2′discrete symmetry is imposed to reduce the number of scalar potential parameters, which is spontaneously broken by the vacuum expectation values of the singlet fields. As a result, all three neutral scalar fields mix, leading to three neutral CP-even scalar bosons, out of which one is identified with the observed Higgs boson at 125 GeV. We explore all relevant collider signatures of the three scalars in this model. Besides the single production of a scalar boson decaying directly to SM particle final states, we extensively discuss the possibility of resonant multi-scalar production. The latter includes decays of the produced scalar boson to two identical scalars (“symmetric decays”), as well as to two different scalars (“asymmetric decays”). Furthermore, we discuss the possibility of successive decays to the lightest scalar states (“cascade decays”), which lead to experimentally spectacular three- and four-Higgs final states. We provide six benchmark scenarios for detailed experimental studies of these Higgs-to-Higgs decay signatures.
Improved BBN constraints on the variation of the gravitational constant
Authors: Alvey James , Sabti Nashwan , Escudero Miguel , Fairbairn Malcolm
Published: February 2020

Big Bang Nucleosynthesis (BBN) is very sensitive to the cosmological expansion rate. If the gravitational constant G took a different value during the nucleosynthesis epoch than today, the primordial abundances of light elements would be affected. In this work, we improve the bounds on this variation using recent determinations of the primordial element abundances, updated nuclear and weak reaction rates and observations of the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB). When combining the measured abundances and the baryon density from CMB observations by Planck, we find $$G_\mathrm {BBN}/G_0 = 0.99^{+0.06}_{-0.05}$$GBBN/G0=0.99-0.05+0.06 at $$2\sigma $$2σ confidence level. If the variation of G is linear in time, we find $$\dot{G}/G_0 = 0.7^{+3.8}_{-4.3}\times 10^{-12} \, \mathrm {year}^{-1}$$G˙/G0=0.7-4.3+3.8×10-12year-1, again at $$2\sigma $$2σ. These bounds are significantly stronger than those from previous primordial nucleosynthesis studies, and are comparable and complementary to CMB, stellar, solar system, lunar laser ranging, pulsar timing and gravitational wave constraints.
Efficiency enhancement of silicon solar cell using effective interface face method in antireflective coating layers
Authors: Fathima M. Ismail , Wilson K. S. Joseph
Published: February 2020

Carrier generation is one of the important processes in solar cell operations. The generation rate depends on the number of photons absorbed by solar cell. This absorption of photons is affected by the reflection losses. The light trapping technique is used to minimize the reflection loss. In this work, a theoretical design of Effective Interface Antireflective Coating (EI-ARC) in solar cell is proposed which is based on the theory of Fabry–Perot interference filters. This design is composed of a space index layer with two subsystems of multilayer, which allows multiple reflections within it. It is shown that the combination of this two systems yields high transmission values over a narrow spectral range. This EI-ARC model increases the Internal Quantum Efficiency (IQE) and carrier generation rate of solar cell. These parameters are significant to raise the efficiency of the solar cell.
Mechanical Impedance Control of Cooperative Robot During Object Manipulation Based on External Force Estimation Using Recurrent Neural Network
Authors: Hanafusa Misaki , Ishikawa Jun
Published: February 2020

This paper proposes a compliant motion control for human-cooperative robots to absorb collision force when persons accidentally touch the robots even while the robot is manipulating an object. In the proposed method, an external force estimator, which can distinguish the net external force from the object manipulation force, is realized using an inverse dynamics model acquired by a recurrent neural network (RNN). By implementing a mechanical impedance control to the estimated external force, the robot can quickly and precisely carry the object keeping the mechanical impedance control functioned and can generate a compliant motion to the net external force only when the person touches it during manipulation. Since the proposed method estimates the external force from the generalized force based on the learned inverse dynamics, it is not necessary to install any sensors on the manipulated object to measure the external force. This allows the robot to detect the collision even when the person touches anywhere on the manipulated object. The RNN inverse dynamics model is evaluated by the leave-one-out cross-validation and it was found that it works well for unknown trajectories excluded from the learning process. Although the details were omitted due to the limitation of the page length, similar to the simulations, the RNN inverse dynamics model was evaluated using unknown trajectories in the six degree-of-freedom experiments, and it has been verified that it functions properly even for the unknown trajectories. Finally, the validity of the proposed method has been confirmed by experiments in which a person touches a robot while it is manipulating an object with six degrees of freedom.
Collaborative е-Rulemaking, Democratic Bots, and the Future of Digital Democracy
Authors: Perez Oren
Published: February 2020

This article focuses on “deliberative e-rulemaking”: digital consultation processes that seek to facilitate public deliberation over policy or regulatory proposals [1, 2]. The main challenge of е-rulemaking platforms is to support an “intelligent” deliberative process that enables decision makers to identify a wide range of options, weigh the relevant considerations, and develop epistemically responsible solutions. This article discusses and critiques two approaches to this challenge: The Cornell RegulationRoom project and model of computationally assisted regulatory participation by Livermore et al. It then proceeds to explore two alternative approaches to e-rulemaking: One is based on the implementation of collaborative, wiki-styled tools. This article discusses the findings of an experiment, which was conducted at Bar-Ilan University and explored various aspects of a wiki-based collaborative е-rulemaking system. The second approach follows a more futuristic approach, focusing on the potential development of autonomous, artificial democratic agents. This article critically discusses this alternative, also in view of the recent debate regarding the idea of “augmented democracy.”
Digital Sclerosis? Wind of Change for Government and the Employees
Authors: Andersen Kim Normann , Lee Jungwoo , Henriksen Helle Zinner
Published: February 2020

Contrasting the political ambitions on the next generation of government, the uptake of technology can lead to digital sclerosis characterized by stiffening of the governmental processes, failure to respond to changes in demand, and lowering innovation feedback from workers. In this conceptual article, we outline three early warnings of digital sclerosis: decreased bargaining and discretion power of governmental workers, enhanced agility and ability at shifting and extended proximities, and panopticonization. To respond proactively and take preventive care initiatives, policy makers and systems developers need to be sensitized about the digital sclerosis, prepare the technology, and design intelligent augmentations in a flexible and agile approach.
Mathematical Model of Cam Profile Based on Heald Frame Motion Characteristics
Authors: Yin Honghuan , Yu Hongbin , Peng Junqiang , Shao Hongyu
Published: February 2020

In this paper, the transmission process of the heald frame driven by the dobby is analyzed. The equivalent motion model of the dobby modulator, the eccentric mechanism, and the motion transmission unit are constructed. Then, based on the given movement characteristics of the heald frame, the mathematical model is built to achieve the cam pitch curve and the cam profile of the modulator. The numerical solution method for this is developed. The preparation of a mathematical model for the new concept of the solving cam profile based on the motion characteristics of heald frames is explained in this study. By setting a 11th polynomial motion law of the heald frame, due to the inconsistency between the outward and return motion laws of the crank-rocker mechanism, an asymmetrical cam profile is obtained under the premise of ensuring that the heald frame’s ascending and descending motions are consistent. Through the kinematics simulation analysis, the correctness of the reverse process is verified.
A Potential Linking between Vitamin D and Adipose Metabolic Disorders
Authors: Miao Zhiguo , Wang Shan , Wang Yimin , Guo Liping , Zhang Jinzhou , Liu Yang , Yang Qiyuan
Published: February 2020

Vitamin D has been discovered centuries ago, and current studies have focused on the biological effects of vitamin D on adipogenesis. Besides its role in calcium homeostasis and energy metabolism, vitamin D is also involved in the regulation of development and process of metabolic disorders. Adipose tissue is a major storage depot of vitamin D. This review summarized studies on the relationship between vitamin D and adipogenesis and furthermore focuses on adipose metabolic disorders. We reviewed the biological roles and functionalities of vitamin D, the correlation between vitamin D and adipose tissue, the effect of vitamin D on adipogenesis, and adipose metabolic diseases. Vitamin D is associated with adipogenesis, and vitamin D supplements can reduce the burden caused by metabolic diseases. The review provides new insights and basis for medical therapy on adipose metabolic diseases.
Evaluation of a Tangential Map-Based Nomogram for Intrastromal Corneal Ring Segments’ Implantation in Keratoconus: One Year Results
Authors: Zaky Adel Galal , KhalafAllah Mahmoud Tawfik , Sarhan Abdelrahman Elsebaey , Elsawy Moataz Faiz
Published: February 2020

Purpose. To evaluate a new tangential map-based nomogram versus the axial map-based nomogram for ICRS in keratoconus. Methods. A prospective case series study including 64 eyes of 64 patients who underwent ICRS implantation. Cone location was determined for each eye with two maps: the axial and the tangential. Appropriate ring selection was determined using two surgical nomograms: axial map-based and tangential map-based. Visual, refractive, and topographic outcomes were assessed before, as well as at 3, 6, and 12 months after ICRS implantation. Results. The cone location, and consequently the ring selection, was significantly different in the two nomograms with a “centralization tendency” in the tangential map. In the axial group, UDVA and CDVA improved from 0.12 ± 0.04 and 0.24 ± 0.08 to 0.28 ± 0.08 and 0.4 ± 0.1, respectively. Similarly, MRSE substantially decreased from −6.7 ± 3.3 to −1.2 ± 1.1D at 12 months after the procedure. In the tangential group, UDVA and CDVA improved from 0.09 ± 0.06 and 0.2 ± 0.1 to 0.5 ± 0.2 and 0.7 ± 0.2, respectively. MRSE substantially decreased from −4.9 ± 1D to −1.00 ± 1.6D at 12 months after the procedure. The UDVA gain was significantly higher in the tangential group: 0.35 compared to 0.15 at 12 months, P=0.01∗. Similarly, the gain in the CDVA was 0.4 and 0.15 in the tangential and axial groups, respectively, at 12 months, P=0.003∗. At 12 months, the tangential map showed superiority in UDVA, CDVA, and MRSE in the peripheral cone location, but not the central and paracentral ones. Conclusion. The tangential map-based nomogram attained better visual and refractive outcomes at 1 year. In addition, the cone location was significantly different between both maps with a centralization tendency in the tangential one.
Synthesis of Guerbet Amine-Oxide for Enhanced Oil Recovery
Authors: Shi Changxin , Li Zhiping , Zhang Hong , Chen Yajuan , Zhang Minglong , He Meng
Published: February 2020

Guerbet amine-oxide was synthesized by using Guerbet acid, N,N′-diethyl-1,3-propanediamine and hydrogen peroxide. Its structure was confirmed by FT-IR spectra and mass spectra. The critical micelle concentration (CMC) and the interfacial tension between the crude oil and water were measured. The results showed that the CMC of the Guerbet amine-oxide is 2.14 × 10−5 mol/L and the interfacial tension could be lowered to ultralow levels. The core flood test showed that the surfactant and polymer binary system could increase oil recovery by 24.7% above the water flood.
Prognostic Factors Analysis and Nomogram Construction of Dual Primary Lung Cancer: A Population Study
Authors: Song Cong-kuan , Guo Zi-xin , Shen Xiao-yan , Wang Yu-jin , Wang Qing-wen , Yu Dong-hu , Chen Chen , Liu Xiao-ping , Huang Jing-yu , Li Sheng , Hu Weidong
Published: February 2020

As a special type of lung cancer, multiple primary lung cancer (MPLC) has unique biological characteristics, and its research remains limited. The aim of our research was to identify prognostic factors and construct a prognostic nomogram of dual primary lung cancer (DPLC). A population cohort study of patients with DPLC was conducted using the extracted data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Relevant survival variables were identified using the Cox proportional hazard model. Prognostic nomogram was performed and its predictive performance was validated via the modeling and validating cohort data. Additionally, propensity score matching (PSM) was also applied to evaluate whether surgery affected the OS of this study population. 5411 eligible DPLC patients were included in this study cohort, with 41.0% of 3‐year OS rate and 27.7% of 5‐year OS rate. Age, sex, race, grade, stage, lymph node (LN) metastasis, histological type, primary site, and surgery were considered to be prognostic factors of OS. The C‐indexes of the established nomogram were 0.70 (95% CI (0.69, 0.71)) in the modeling group and 0.70 (95% CI (0.68, 0.72)) in the validation group, which showed an ideal model discrimination ability. AUC and calibration plots of 3‐ and 5‐year OS also proved the good performance of the established nomogram. After 1 : 1 PSM, surgery can potentially reduce the risk of OS (HR = 0.63, 95% CI: 0.56–0.72) of DPLC. The prognostic nomogram with reliable performance was developed to predict 3‐ and 5‐year OS rates, which could assist clinicians to make more reasonable survival prediction for DPLC patients. For patients without absolute surgical contraindications, surgery should be actively considered.
Demographic Variations of MERS‐CoV Infection among Suspected and Confirmed Cases: An Epidemiological Analysis of Laboratory‐Based Data from Riyadh Regional Laboratory
Authors: Altamimi Asmaa , Abu-Saris Raghib , El-Metwally Ashraf , Alaifan Taghreed , Alamri Aref
Published: February 2020

Introduction. Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus was first recognized in September 2012 in Saudi Arabia. The clinical presentations of MERS and non‐MERS SARI are often similar. Therefore, the identification of suspected cases that may have higher chances of being diagnosed as cases of MERS‐CoV is essential. However, the real challenge is to flag these patients through some demographic markers. The nature of these markers has not previously been investigated in Saudi Arabia, and hence, this study aims to identify them. Methods. It was a surveillance system‐based study, for which data from a total of 23,646 suspected patients in Riyadh and Al Qassim regions were analyzed from January 2017 until December 2017 to estimate the prevalence of MERS‐CoV among suspected cases and to determine potential demographic risk factors related to the confirmation of the diagnosis. Results. Of 23,646 suspected cases, 119 (0.5%) were confirmed by laboratory results. These confirmed cases (67.2% of which were males) had a mean age of 43.23 years (SD ± 22.8). Around 42.2% of the confirmed cases were aged between 41 and 60 years and about 47% of confirmed cases had their suspected specimen tested in the summer. The study identified three significant and independent predictors for confirmation of the disease: an age between 41 and 60 years, male gender, and summer season admission. Conclusion. The study provides evidence that the MERS‐CoV epidemic in the subject regions has specific characteristics that might help future plans for the prevention and management of such a contagious disease. Future studies should aim to confirm such findings in other regions of Saudi Arabia as well and explore potential preventable risk factors.
Effectiveness of Yoga as the Public Health Intervention Module in the Management of Diabetes and Diabetes Associated Dementia in South East Asia: A Narrative Review
Authors: Bali Parul , Kaur Navneet , Tiwari Abha , Bammidi Sridhar , Podder Vivek , Devi Chandra , Kumar Saurabh , Sivapuram Madhava Sai , Ghani Abdul , Modgil Shweta , Malik Neeru , Anand Akshay
Published: February 2020

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is widely spread in South Asian (ASEAN) and Indian sub-continent. The increasing healthcare costs of DM can be prevented in the developing world by improved public healthcare interventions. Modifiable risk factors of DM like sedentary lifestyle, obesity, and stressful conditions are associated with its progression; however, the epidemiological data collected by Public Institutions are limited. Summary: A review of published literature describing geographic distribution of DM and associated dementia in South Asian region, particularly India, was conducted with the purpose of assessing the feasibility and challenges associated with the Yoga-based risk reduction. PubMed and Google Scholar databases were searched for DM and dementia-related articles by using a combination of keywords: Diabetes, Diabetes related Dementia Southeast Asia, Pre-diabetes, Yoga, lifestyle modification, Dementia and Exercise. The epidemiological data generated from these diseases have not prompted to any major public health policies. Yoga can be a cost-effective intervention for the prevention of Type 2 DM (T2DM) and its associated cognitive decline when detected early. If nationwide intervention of Yoga is brought about by the state, its integration in health care will become more meaningful and acceptable. Key Message: Studies suggest that Yoga and change in lifestyle can modify the health risks associated with T2DM and associated dementia if it is mainstreamed with the public health initiative of Ayushman Bharat scheme.
Influence of Different Treatment Strategies on New‐Onset Atrial Fibrillation Among Patients With Primary Aldosteronism: A Nationwide Longitudinal Cohort‐Based Study
Authors: Pan Chien‐Ting , Liao Che‐Wei , Tsai Cheng‐Hsuan , Chen Zheng‐Wei , Chen Likwang , Hung Chi‐Sheng , Liu Yu‐Chen , Lin Po‐Chih , Chang Chin‐Chen , Chang Yi‐Yao , Wu Vin‐Cent , Lin Yen‐Hung , Wu Vin‐Cent , Lin Yen‐Hung , Wu Che‐Hsiung , Ho Yi‐Luwn , Chang Hung‐Wei , Lin Lian‐Yu , Hu Fu‐Chang , Liu Kao‐Lang , Wang Shuo‐Meng , Huang Kuo‐How , Chen Yung‐Ming , Kuo Chin‐Chi , Chang Chin‐Chen , Chueh Shih‐Chieh , Lu Ching‐Chu , Liao Shih‐Cheng , Yen Ruoh‐Fang , Wu Kwan‐Dun , Wang Chen‐Yu
Published: February 2020

Background

Primary aldosteronism (
PA
) is associated with higher atrial fibrillation prevalence and other cardiovascular complications. However, the effect of target treatment to prevent new‐onset atrial fibrillation (
NOAF
) remains unclear. This study investigated incidence of
NOAF
under different treatment strategies in patients with PA.

Methods and Results

We analyzed longitudinal data for patients with
PA
without atrial fibrillation history from 1997 to 2009 within the National Health Insurance Research Database in Taiwan. Patients with essential hypertension matched by propensity score were enrolled as controls. The primary outcome measurement was
NOAF
, and secondary outcome measurements were mortality, major cardiac and cardiac/cerebrovascular events, and a combined end point of
NOAF
and mortality. We identified 2202 patients with
PA
(534 adrenalectomy, 1668 mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist [MRA] therapy) and 8808 essential hypertension controls with mean follow‐up of 4.4 years. In primary outcome measurement, patients with
PA
who underwent adrenalectomy had a lower incidence of
NOAF
(adjusted hazard ratio; 0.28,
P
=0.011) than controls. In contrast, the patients with PA who received
MRA
therapy had comparable risk of
NOAF
(adjusted hazard ratio, 1.20;
P
=0.224). In secondary outcome measurement, patients with PA who underwent adrenalectomy had a lower rate of mortality and combined end point of
NOAF
and mortality than controls. Patients with PA who received
MRA
therapy had a higher risk of mortality, major cardiac and cardiac/cerebrovascular events, and combined
NOAF
with mortality than the essential hypertension controls.

Conclusions

Compared with patients with essential hypertension, patients with PA who underwent adrenalectomy had a lower incidence of
NOAF
. However, this finding was not observed in patients with PA who received
MRA
therapy with a lower dose. Differences between the 2 strategies may reduce with a higher dose of
MRA
therapy.
Espeletia restricta (Millerieae, Asteraceae), a new species from the páramos of northern Colombia

Authors: ALZATE FERNANDO , GIRALDO SEBASTIÁN
Published: February 2020

An intensive exploration of the páramos ecosystem on northwestern Colombia allowed the discovery of a new species of Espeletia (Millerieae: Asteraceae), E. restricta. Espeletia is an endemic taxon to the páramos of Colombia, Venezuela and Ecuador, generally found above 3000 m of elevation. Espeletia restricta has a very narrow distribution limited to the northern Central Cordillera of Los Andes. The new species is similar to Espeletia occidentalis, species occurring in the Central and Western Cordillera, from which it differs in  the size of its synflorescences relative to the rosette length (less than 1.5 times longer than the rosette vs. 2–3 times longer than the rosette) and indument colour (yellowish vs. greenish-white). The new species was assessed Critically Endangered (CR) due to the small size of its population and the restricted nature of its occurrence, which makes this taxon of great conservation concern.
Daily and Latent Lagged Effects of Rainfall on Pedestrian–Vehicle Collisions
Authors: Lobo António , Ferreira Sara , Iglesias Isabel , Couto António
Published: February 2020

Walking safety has been a primary concern for researchers and authorities, who have developed numerous studies concerning the interaction between pedestrians and vehicles. Nevertheless, few studies have focused on the impacts of weather conditions on pedestrian–vehicle collisions. This research aims at improving knowledge on this subject by investigating the impact of daily precipitation and the lagged effects associated with past accumulated precipitation. Using the city of Porto, Portugal, as a case study, an incremental approach consisting of three models, one Poisson and two negative binomial, was developed to explore the relation between weather conditions and the occurrence of pedestrian–vehicle collisions. The first model accounts exclusively for meteorological variables, providing an insight into the trends of crash frequency under the effects of temperature and precipitation. Then, variables for road classification and land use were introduced in the second and third models, respectively, to account for the diversity of the urban environment. These variables act as proxies for the level of exposure associated with different types of urban space, allowing for a more in-depth understanding of the impacts caused by meteorological conditions. The modeling results show that the number of pedestrian–vehicle collisions tends to increase on rainy days, following the general trend observed in the literature for other types of crashes. Regarding the lagged effects, the results show that the number of pedestrian–vehicle collisions is likely to decrease after a wet week but increases after a wet month.
Outpatient intensive induction chemotherapy for acute myeloid leukemia and high-risk myelodysplastic syndrome
Authors: Mabrey Frances Linzee , Gardner Kelda M. , Shannon Dorcy Kathleen , Perdue Andrea , Smith Heather A. , Davis Alicyn M. , Hammer Cody , Rizzuto Donelle , Jones Sunny , Quach Kim , Scott Bart L. , Hendrie Paul C. , Percival Mary-Elizabeth M. , Walter Roland B. , Appelbaum Frederick R. , Estey Elihu H. , Becker Pamela S.
Published: February 2020

To improve patient quality of life and reduce health care costs, many conditions formerly thought to require inpatient care are now treated in the outpatient setting. Outpatient induction chemotherapy for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) may confer similar benefits. This possibility prompted a pilot study to explore the safety and feasibility of intensive outpatient initial or salvage induction chemotherapy administration for adults with AML and high-risk myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). Patients with no significant organ dysfunction and a treatment-related mortality (TRM) score corresponding to a day 28 mortality rate of <5% to 10% were eligible for study. Patients were treated as outpatients with daily evaluation by providers and only admitted to the hospital if mandated by complications. Twenty patients were consented, and 17 were treated. Eight patients received initial induction chemotherapy and 9 received salvage induction chemotherapy. Fourteen patients completed induction chemotherapy administration in the outpatient setting (82.4%; exact 95% confidence interval [CI], 55.8-95.3). Three patients were admitted during the course of chemotherapy administration, 2 for neutropenic fever and 1 for grade 3 mucositis. No patients died within 14 days of the initiation of induction chemotherapy (exact 95% CI, 0-22.9). Results of this pilot study suggest it is feasible to complete outpatient induction chemotherapy in select patients with AML and high-risk MDS. A team including nurses, social workers, medical providers, and pharmacists was key to the successful implementation of outpatient induction.
IκB kinase 2 is not essential for platelet activation
Authors: Salzmann Manuel , Bleichert Sonja , Moser Bernhard , Mussbacher Marion , Haase Mildred , Hoesel Bastian , Schrottmaier Waltraud C. , Kral-Pointner Julia B. , Itakura Makoto , Schmidt Katy , Assinger Alice , Schmid Johannes A.
Published: February 2020

Platelets are small anucleate cells that release a plethora of molecules to ensure functional hemostasis. It has been reported that IκB kinase 2 (IKK2), the central enzyme of the inflammatory NF-κB pathway, is involved in platelet activation, because megakaryocyte/platelet-specific deletion of exons 6 and 7 of IKK2 resulted in platelet degranulation defects and prolonged bleeding. We aimed to investigate the role of IKK2 in platelet physiology in more detail, using a platelet-specific IKK2 knockout via excision of exon 3, which makes up the active site of the enzyme. We verified the deletion on genomic and transcriptional levels in megakaryocytes and were not able to detect any residual IKK2 protein; however, platelets from these mice did not show any functional impairment in vivo or in vitro. Bleeding time and thrombus formation were not affected in platelet-specific IKK2-knockout mice. Moreover, platelet aggregation, glycoprotein GPIIb/IIIa activation, and degranulation were unaltered. These observations were confirmed by pharmacological inhibition of IKK2 with TPCA-1 and BMS-345541, which did not affect activation of murine or human platelets over a wide concentration range. Altogether, our results imply that IKK2 is not essential for platelet function.
Fulminant central nervous system varicella-zoster virus infection unexpectedly diagnosed by metagenomic next-generation sequencing in an HIV-infected patient: a case report
Authors: Fang Mingxia , Weng Xing , Chen Liyun , Chen Yaling , Chi Yun , Chen Wei , Hu Zhiliang
Published: February 2020

Background

Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infection can be diagnosed clinically once classical rash occurs but the diagnosis is challenging when typical rash is absent. We reported a case of fulminant central nervous system (CNS) VZV infection in a human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patient without typical VZV-related rash. CNS VZV infection was unexpected identified by metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS).

Case presentation

A 28-year-old HIV-infected patient presented with neurological symptoms for 3 days. The patient, who was not suspected of VZV infection at admission, quickly progressed to deep coma during the first 24 h of hospitalization. An unbiased mNGS was performed on DNA extract from 300 μL cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) with the BGISEQ-50 platform. The sequencing detection identified 97,248 (out of 38,561,967) sequence reads uniquely aligned to the VZV genome, and these reads covered a high percentage (99.91%) of the VZV. Presence of VZV DNA in CSF was further verified by VZV-specific polymerase chain reaction and Sanger sequencing. Altogether, those results confirmed CNS VZV infection.

Conclusions

This study suggests that mNGS may be a useful diagnostic tool for CNS VZV infection. As mNGS could identify all pathogens directly from CSF sample in a single run, it has the promise of strengthening our ability to diagnose CNS infections in HIV-infected patients.