bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perfusion measured by laser speckle contrast imaging as a predictor for expansion of psoriasis lesions
Authors: Schaap Mirjam J. , Chizari Ata , Knop Tom , Groenewoud Hans M. M. , van Erp Piet E. J. , de Jong Elke M. G. J. , Steenbergen Wiendelt , Seyger Marieke M. B.
Published: October 2021

Background

Skin microvasculature changes are crucial in psoriasis development and correlate with perfusion. The noninvasive Handheld Perfusion Imager (HAPI) examines microvascular skin perfusion in large body areas using laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI).

Objectives

To (i) assess whether increased perilesional perfusion and perfusion inhomogeneity are predictors for expansion of psoriasis lesions and (ii) assess feasibility of the HAPI system in a mounted modality.

Methods

In this interventional pilot study in adults with unstable plaque psoriasis, HAPI measurements and color photographs were performed for lesions present on one body region at week 0, 2, 4, 6 and 8. The presence of increased perilesional perfusion and perfusion inhomogeneity was determined. Clinical outcome was categorized as increased, stable or decreased lesion surface between visits. Patient feedback was collected on a 10‐point scale.

Results

In total, 110 lesions with a median follow‐up of 6 (IQR 6.0) weeks were assessed in 6 patients with unstable plaque psoriasis. Perfusion data was matched to 281 clinical outcomes after two weeks. A mixed multinomial logistic regression model revealed a predictive value of perilesional increased perfusion (OR 9.90; p < 0.001) and perfusion inhomogeneity (OR 2.39; p = 0.027) on lesion expansion after two weeks compared to lesion stability. HAPI measurements were considered fast, patient‐friendly and important by patients.

Conclusion

Visualization of increased perilesional perfusion and perfusion inhomogeneity by noninvasive whole field LSCI holds potential for prediction of psoriatic lesion expansion. Furthermore, the HAPI is a feasible and patient‐friendly tool.
Antibody incidence and red blood cell transfusions in patients on daratumumab
Authors: Tauscher Craig , Moldenhauer Sheila , Bryant Sandra , DiGuardo Margaret , Jacob Eapen K.
Published: October 2021

Background

Daratumumab (Dara), an anti‐CD38 monoclonal antibody for hematologic malignancies, interferes with routine blood bank testing, specifically affecting the antibody screen and identification panels. In 2016, the AABB recommended performing a baseline phenotype or genotype before a patient (Pt) begins taking anti‐CD38 to avoid this interference and potential problems with transfusion. The objective of this study was to assess red blood cell (RBC) utilization and subsequent incidence of alloimmunization to the transfused RBCs in patients receiving Dara.

Methods and Materials

We monitored 244 patients taking Dara to determine their red blood cell transfusions and incidence of clinically significant antibody formation before and following administration of Dara. Poisson generalized estimating equations with log link were used comparing the post‐Dara incidence and prevalence to those prior, with significance defined as p < .05.

Results

From September 1, 2015 to December 22, 2018, 244 patients on Dara were identified, of which 145 patients (59.4%) received a red blood cell transfusion. Antibody screens were performed on 97 of the 145 patients at least 2 weeks following RBC transfusion. Four of the total transfused patients (2.8% total, 4.1% patients with follow‐up antibody screen testing) formed new clinically significant alloantibodies, which was not significantly different from Asare's hematologic incidence (p = .98/p = .49).

Conclusions

This study showed our patients on Dara did not form alloantibodies following RBC transfusion at a higher incidence than similar patient populations.
Distribution of trace impurities in microvolumes and analysis of concentration using laser sputtered neutral mass spectrometry
Authors: Akutsu Haruko , Saito Reiko , Asakawa Jun , Kiyokawa Kei , Morita Masato , Sakamoto Tetsuo , Fujii Masaaki
Published: October 2021

The performance of semiconductor devices has been improved by the miniaturization and the adoption of various materials. Together with this improvement, it has become difficult to measure the amount of injected impurities to control the electrical conductivity under the three-dimensional microstructure. As the volume decreases, the lower limit of the concentration that can be defined increases. In a 10-nm cubic region of silicon, there are approximately 64 000 atoms. One atom is approximately 16 ppm, and concentrations below that level cannot be defined. The limitation on the measurement accuracy of the PN junction position becomes unclear. Generally, the electrical characteristics of a semiconductor device are determined by the position of the PN junction and the concentrations in the P and N regions. In this paper, we elucidate the interface state of a minute PN junction. Based on the above, we will examine the lowest extent to which the concentration of impurities can be measured in a microvolume, with the current physical analysis technology, assuming ideal measurement conditions without any disturbance. Finally, we measure the sensitivity improvement of mass spectrometry using postionization technology with a femtosecond pulse infrared laser and demonstrate that it is possible to improve the performance of the impurity measurement.
Modeling the effect of stochastic heating and surface chemistry in a pure CF4 inductively coupled plasma
Authors: Levko Dmitry , Shukla Chandrasekhar , Raja Laxminarayan L.
Published: October 2021

The physics and chemistry of inductively coupled plasma generated in pure tetrafluoromethane are analyzed using a self-consistent two-dimensional plasma fluid model coupled with Maxwell's equations. The model also takes into account the stochastic electron heating typical for low-pressure inductive discharges. We show that this effect is important for the explanation of experimentally measured plasma parameters. We also analyze the influence of several model parameters on the plasma. These parameters include the mechanism of surface reactions, the sticking coefficient of fluorine atoms at the walls, the uncertainty in the electron impact dissociation reactions, and the background gas pressure.
ConvNets for counting: Object detection of transient phenomena in steelpan drums
Authors: Hawley Scott H. , Morrison Andrew C.
Published: October 2021

We train an object detector built from convolutional neural networks to count interference fringes in elliptical antinode regions in frames of high-speed video recordings of transient oscillations in Caribbean steelpan drums, illuminated by electronic speckle pattern interferometry (ESPI). The annotations provided by our model aim to contribute to the understanding of time-dependent behavior in such drums by tracking the development of sympathetic vibration modes. The system is trained on a dataset of crowdsourced human-annotated images obtained from the Zooniverse Steelpan Vibrations Project. Due to the small number of human-annotated images and the ambiguity of the annotation task, we also evaluate the model on a large corpus of synthetic images whereby the properties have been matched to the real images by style transfer using a Generative Adversarial Network. Applying the model to thousands of unlabeled video frames, we measure oscillations consistent with audio recordings of these drum strikes. One unanticipated result is that sympathetic oscillations of higher-octave notes significantly precede the rise in sound intensity of the corresponding second harmonic tones; the mechanism responsible for this remains unidentified. This paper primarily concerns the development of the predictive model; further exploration of the steelpan images and deeper physical insights await its further application.
In situ characterization of laser-generated melt pools using synchronized ultrasound and high-speed X-ray imaging
Authors: Gillespie Jared , Yeoh Wei Yi , Zhao Cang , Parab Niranjan D. , Sun Tao , Rollett Anthony D. , Lan Bo , Kube Christopher M.
Published: October 2021

Metal additive manufacturing is a fabrication method that forms a part by fusing layers of powder to one another. An energy source, such as a laser, is commonly used to heat the metal powder sufficiently to cause a molten pool to form, which is known as the melt pool. The melt pool can exist in the conduction or the keyhole mode where the material begins to rapidly evaporate. The interaction between the laser and the material is physically complex and difficult to predict or measure. In this article, high-speed X-ray imaging was combined with immersion ultrasound to obtain synchronized measurements of stationary laser-generated melt pools. Furthermore, two-dimensional and three-dimensional finite-element simulations were conducted to help explain the ultrasonic response in the experiments. In particular, the time-of-flight and amplitude in pulse-echo configuration were observed to have a linear relationship to the depth of the melt pool. These results are promising for the use of ultrasound to characterize the melt pool behavior and for finite-element simulations to aid in interpretation.
Acoustic differences between Chilean and Salvadoran Spanish /s/
Authors: Bolyanatz Mariška , Brogan Franny D.
Published: October 2021

This paper examines seven acoustic properties of /s/ in Chilean Spanish (CS) and Salvadoran Spanish (ES). Acoustic measurements from 36 speakers, balanced for gender and dialect, reveal several cross-dialectal differences: CS /s/ was significantly longer than ES /s/ in coda position and had a higher spectral center of gravity. Two findings were mitigated by gender: women in both dialects were more likely to voice /s/, but the magnitude of the difference in voicing between male and female speakers was greater in CS. There were no differences in relative intensity in CS, while in ES, /s/ used by males has significantly lower relative intensity than /s/ used by females. No dialect differences were found for variance, kurtosis, or skewness. While both CS and ES are frequently collocated under the umbrella of “/s/ weakening dialects,” our results show that tokens of non-deleted /s/ are acoustically distinct. These findings suggest that shorter duration and lower spectral energy in ES could be the result of a looser or backer constriction of /s/ and may have implications for work examining cross-dialectal differences in /s/ lenition at the phonetics/phonology interface.
Effects of Circuit Resistance Training on Body Composition, Strength, and Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Middle-Aged and Older Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ramos-Campo Domingo Jesús , Andreu-Caravaca Luis , Carrasco-Poyatos María , Benito Pedro J. , Rubio-Arias Jacobo Ángel
Published: October 2021

A systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the effects of circuit resistance training (CRT) on cardiorespiratory fitness, strength, and body composition in middle-aged and older women. Sixteen studies were included in the meta-analysis. The CRT interventions led to a significant decrease in weight, body mass index, and fat mass along with an increase in muscle mass. Significant differences were found in the fat mass and a trend to develop muscle mass when compared with the control group. CRT led to a significant increase in VO2max, walking endurance, and time to exhaustion; likewise, significant differences were observed when compared with the control group. CRT had a moderate and large favorable effect on arm, trunk, and lower limb strength. Furthermore, the increases in strength observed in the CRT were significantly greater than the changes observed in the control group. In middle-aged and older women, CRT improved cardiorespiratory fitness and strength and optimized body composition.
Physical Activity in Women With Hypothyroidism on Thyroid Hormone Therapy: Associated Factors and Perceived Barriers and Benefits
Authors: Lankhaar Jeannette A.C. , Kemler Ellen , Stubbe Janine H. , Backx Frank J.G.
Published: October 2021

Background: The purpose of this study was to analyze factors associated with physical activity (PA) and to identify perceived barriers and benefits of PA among patients with hypothyroidism on thyroid hormone therapy. Methods: This survey-based cross-sectional study was conducted among members of the Dutch thyroid patient organization. Self-reported data on respondents’ PA levels and demographic, clinical, and physical health variables were collected. Moreover, perceived barriers and benefits to PA were identified. Respondents were categorized as physically active when meeting the recommended Dutch PA guidelines and physically inactive otherwise. To compare physically active and inactive respondents, potential confounders were entered into univariate analyses. Factors showing significant correlations (P < .20) were added to a multivariate model to determine the associated factors of PA. Results: About 1724 female respondents (mean age 53.0 [11.6] y) were included; 16.1% reported meeting the PA recommendations. Multivariate analysis showed that factors associated with PA included levothyroxine/liothyronine therapy, comorbidities, self-perceived physical fitness, and diminished physical endurance. Overall, physically related barriers to PA were rated highest. Conclusions: The vast majority of treated hypothyroid respondents are physically inactive and experience long-term exercise intolerance. Considering the health implications of physical inactivity, promotion of regular PA is of key importance in this population.
Predictors of Teachers’ Attitudes Toward Teaching Students With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in General Physical Education
Authors: Li Chunxiao , Haegele Justin A. , Au Ho Lun , Kam Kevin Wai Keung
Published: October 2021

Purpose: This research was undertaken to examine predictors of physical education (PE) teachers’ attitudes toward teaching students with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in general PE. Method: In-service PE teachers (n = 151) in Hong Kong completed a multi-section survey measuring demographic variables, attitudes, self-esteem, and intrapersonal and interpersonal mindfulness. Survey data were mainly analyzed through multiple regression analyses. Results: The results showed that special education-related coursework and self-esteem were positive predictors of attitudes. However, they were no longer a significant predictor after mindfulness was entered into the regression model while both types of mindfulness positively predicted attitudes. Discussion/Conclusion: Self-esteem as well as intrapersonal and interpersonal mindfulness play an important role in predicting PE teachers’ attitudes toward teaching students with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Related training components may be included in the professional development programs for improving PE teachers’ attitudes.
Transmission and Passage of Experimental "Kuru" to Chimpanzees
Authors: Gajdusek D. Carleton , Gibbs Clarence J. , Alpers Michael
Published: October 2021

Kuru, a familial degenerative disease of the nervous system occurring in a restricted area of the Highlands of New Guinea, has apparently been transmitted to chimpanzees, but not to any other of the many experimental hosts tried. Transmission of the kuru syndrome from chimpanzee to chimpanzee has now been effected, with a shortening of the incubation period to 1 year from the 1½ to 2½ years found on intracerebral passage of human brain tissue to chimpanzee. Other chimpanzees have been inoculated to determine the size and heat stability of the agent, its presence outside the nervous system, and its pathogenicity by other routes of inoculation.
Ventral Medial Hypothalamus: Involvement in Hypoglycemic Convulsions
Authors: Kellar Kenneth J. , Langley Albert E. , Marks Bernard H. , O'Neill John J.
Published: October 2021

After the ventral medial hypothalamus of mice was lesioned with gold thioglucose, the dose of insulin required to produce convulsions in 50 percent of the animals was doubled compared to that in nonlesionad controls. No dose of insulin, up to 50 milliunits per gram, produced convulsions in more than 60 percent of the lesioned mice, even though blood glucose levels fell to approximately 24 milligram percent.
Interspecific Competition: A New Approach to the Classical Theory
Authors: Vandermeer John H.
Published: October 2021

The biological consequences of the classical theory of competition are shown to be at least partly a function of a very special way of interpreting particular constants in simple equations. It is shown how altered consequences may be obtained by different, but equally plausible, interpretations of those constants.
Malignant Transformation in vitro by Carcinogenic Hydrocarbons
Authors: Heidelberger Charles , Iype P. T.
Published: October 2021

Pieces of ventral prostate from adult C3H mice were cultivated in organ culture for 3 weeks. One group served as a control; another was treated for 1 week with methylcholanthrene or 9,10-dimethyl-1,2-benzanthracene and for 2 additional weeks in normal medium. The pieces were pooled and dispersed with pronase into individual cells that were plated as cell cultures. The control cultures invariably died. The treated cells formed permanent lines that, on subcutaneous injection of from 1 to 2 × 10
6
cells into adult, unconditioned, male C3H mice, produced progressively growing, transplantable tumors. The tumors were mostly sarcomas, but included two anaplastic carcinomas. Malignant transformation in vitro has thus been achieved with carcinogenic hydrocarbons in this system.
Insulin-stimulated release of lipoprotein lipase by metabolism of its phosphatidylinositol anchor
Authors: Chan BL , Lisanti MP , Rodriguez-Boulan E , Saltiel AR
Published: October 2021

Lipoprotein lipase (LPL) plays a critical role in the metabolism of plasma lipoproteins. In 3T3-L1 adipocytes, insulin elicits the rapid release of LPL through mechanisms that are independent of energy metabolism and protein synthesis. Some of the metabolic actions of insulin may be mediated by the activation of a specific phospholipase that hydrolyzes a glycosyl phosphatidylinositol (PI) molecule. The insulin-sensitive glycosyl-PI is structurally similar to the glycolipid membrane anchor of a number of proteins. LPL appears to be anchored to the 3T3-L1 cell surface by glycosyl-PI, and its rapid release by insulin may be due to activation of a glycosyl-PI-specific phospholipase C.
Cytokines alter production of HIV-1 from primary mononuclear phagocytes
Authors: Koyanagi Y , O'Brien WA , Zhao JQ , Golde DW , Gasson JC , Chen IS
Published: October 2021

Some strains of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) can infect primary monocytes and monocyte-derived macrophages in vitro. In this report, the effect of cytokines on the production of one of these strains that shows a tropism for mononuclear phagocytes, designated HIV-1JR-FL, was studied. Primary peripheral blood mononuclear phagocytes infected with HIV-1JR-FL were treated with the hematopoietic factors: granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), interleukin-3 (IL-3), macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF), and gamma-interferon (gamma-IFN). The M-CSF, GM-CSF, IL-3, and gamma-IFN were able to alter HIV-1 production under different conditions.
Evidence for enhanced fluvial channel mobility and fine sediment export due to precipitation seasonality during the Paleocene-Eocene thermal maximum
Authors: Barefoot Eric A. , Nittrouer Jeffrey A. , Foreman Brady Z. , Hajek Elizabeth A. , Dickens Gerald R. , Baisden Tramond , Toms Leah
Published: October 2021

The Paleocene-Eocene thermal maximum (PETM) was the most extreme example of an abrupt global warming event in the Cenozoic, and it is widely discussed as a past analog for contemporary climate change. Anomalous accumulation of terrigenous mud in marginal shelf environments and concentration of sand in terrestrial deposits during the PETM have both been inferred to represent an increase in fluvial sediment flux. A corresponding increase in water discharge or river slope would have been required to transport this additional sediment. However, in many locations, evidence for changes in fluvial slope is weak, and geochemical proxies and climate models indicate that while runoff variability may have increased, mean annual precipitation was unaffected or potentially decreased. Here, we explored whether changes in river morphodynamics under variable-discharge conditions could have contributed to increased fluvial sand concentration during the PETM. Using field observations, we reconstructed channel paleohydraulics, mobility, and avulsion behavior for the Wasatch Formation (Piceance Basin, Colorado, USA). Our data provide no evidence for changes in fluvial slope during the PETM, and thus no evidence for enhanced sediment discharge. However, our data do show evidence of increased fluvial bar reworking and advection of sediment to floodplains during channel avulsion, consistent with experimental studies of alluvial systems subjected to variable discharge. High discharge variability increases channel mobility and floodplain reworking, which retains coarse sediment while remobilizing and exporting fine sediment through the alluvial system. This mechanism can explain anomalous fine sediment accumulation on continental shelves without invoking sustained increases in fluvial sediment and water discharge.
Spatio-temporal evolution of the Christiana-Santorini-Kolumbo volcanic field, Aegean Sea
Authors: Preine J. , Karstens J. , Hübscher C. , Nomikou P. , Schmid F. , Crutchley G.J. , Druitt T.H. , Papanikolaou D.
Published: October 2021

The Christiana-Santorini-Kolumbo volcanic field (CSKVF) in the Aegean Sea is one of the most active volcano-tectonic lineaments in Europe. Santorini has been an iconic site in volcanology and archaeology since the 19th century, and the onshore volcanic products of Santorini are one of the best-studied volcanic sequences worldwide. However, little is known about the chronology of volcanic activity of the adjacent submarine Kolumbo volcano, and even less is known about the Christiana volcanic island. In this study, we exploit a dense array of high-resolution marine seismic reflection profiles to link the marine stratigraphy to onshore volcanic sequences and present the first consistent chronological framework for the CSKVF, enabling a detailed reconstruction of the evolution of the volcanic rift system in time and space. We identify four main phases of volcanic activity, which initiated in the Pliocene with the formation of the Christiana volcano (phase 1). The formation of the current southwest-northeast–trending rift system (phase 2) was associated with the evolution of two distinct volcanic centers, the newly discovered Poseidon center and the early Kolumbo volcano. Phase 3 saw a period of widespread volcanic activity throughout the entire rift. The ongoing phase 4 is confined to the Santorini caldera and Kolumbo volcano. Our study highlights the fundamental tectonic control on magma emplacement and shows that the CSKVF evolved from a volcanic field with local centers that matured only recently to form the vast Santorini edifice.
South Tarim tied to north India on the periphery of Rodinia and Gondwana and implications for the evolution of two supercontinents
Authors: Wang Peng , Zhao Guochun , Cawood Peter A. , Han Yigui , Yu Shan , Liu Qian , Yao Jinlong , Zhang Donghai
Published: October 2021

Constraining the positions of, and interrelationships between, Earth's major continental blocks has played a major role in validating the concept of the supercontinent cycle. Minor continental fragments can provide additional key constraints on modes of supercontinent assembly and dispersal. The Tarim craton has been placed both at the core of Rodinia or on its periphery, and differentiating between the two scenarios has widespread implications for the breakup of Rodinia and subsequent assembly of Gondwana. In the South Tarim terrane, detrital zircon grains from Neoproterozoic–Silurian strata display two dominant populations at 950–750 and 550–450 Ma. Similarly, two main peaks at 1000–800 and 600–490 Ma characterize Neoproterozoic–Ordovician strata in northern India. Moreover, the two dominant peaks of South Tarim and north India lag two global peaks at 1200–1000 and 650–500 Ma, which reflect Rodinia and Gondwana assembly, arguing against a position within the heart of the two supercontinents. Ages and Hf isotopes of Tarim's detrital zircons argue for a position on the margin of both supercontinents adjacent to north India with periodic dispersal through opening and closing of small ocean basins (e.g., the Proto-Tethys). Alternating tectonic transitions between advancing and retreating subduction in North Tarim coincide with periodic drift of South Tarim from north India in Rodinia and Gondwana, emphasizing the importance of retreating subduction in supercontinent dispersal. Moreover, the Rodinia-related orogenic belts spatially overlap the Gondwana-related orogenic belts in the two blocks, indicating no significant relative rotation of India and Tarim during the evolution from Rodinia to Gondwana.
The role of phyllosilicate partial melting in segregating tungsten and tin deposits in W-Sn metallogenic provinces
Authors: Zhao Panlao , Chu Xu , Williams-Jones Anthony E. , Mao Jingwen , Yuan Shunda
Published: October 2021

Most tungsten (W) and tin (Sn) deposits are associated with highly evolved granites derived from the anatexis of metasedimentary rocks. They are commonly separated in both space and time, and in the rare cases where the W and Sn mineralization are part of a single deposit, the two metals are temporally separate. The factors controlling this behavior, however, are not well understood. Our compilation of whole-rock geochemical data for W- and Sn-related granites in major W-Sn metallogenic belts shows that the Sn-related granites are generally the products of higher-temperature partial melting (~800 °C) than the W-related granites (~750 °C). Thermodynamic modeling of partial melting and metal partitioning shows that W is incorporated into the magma formed during low-temperature muscovite-dehydration melting, whereas most of the Sn is released into the magma at a higher temperature during biotite-dehydration melting; the Sn of the magma may be increased significantly if melt is extracted prior to biotite melting. At the same degree of partial melting, the concentrations of the two metals in the partial melt are controlled by their concentration in the protolith. Thus, the nature of the protolith and the melting temperature and subsequent evolution of the magma all influence the metallogenic potential of a magma and, in combination, helped control the spatial and temporal segregation of W and Sn deposits in all major W-Sn metallogenic belts.
Lateral variation in slab window viscosity inferred from global navigation satellite system (GNSS)–observed uplift due to recent mass loss at Patagonia ice fields
Authors: Russo Raymond M. , Luo Haipeng , Wang Kelin , Ambrosius Boudewijn , Mocanu Victor , He Jiangheng , James Thomas , Bevis Michael , Fernandes Rui
Published: October 2021

The geographic coincidence of the Chile Ridge slab window and the Patagonia ice fields offers a unique opportunity for assessing the effects of slab window rheology on glacial isostatic adjustment (GIA). Mass loss of these ice fields since the Little Ice Age causes rapid but variable crustal uplift, 12–24 mm/yr around the North Patagonia ice field, increasing to a maximum of 41 mm/yr around the South Patagonia ice field, as determined from newly collected or processed geodetic data. We used these observational constraints in a three-dimensional Maxwell viscoelastic finite element model of GIA response above both the subducting slab and slab window in which the upper-mantle viscosity was parameterized to be uniform with depth. We found that the viscosity of the northern part of the slab window, ~2 × 1018 Pa·s, is lower than that of the southern part by approximately an order of magnitude. We propose that this along-strike viscosity contrast is due to late Cenozoic ridge subduction beneath the northern part of the slab window, which increases asthenospheric temperature and reduces viscosity.
Multifaceted antibiotic stewardship intervention using a participatory-action-research approach to improve antibiotic prescribing for urinary tract infections in frail elderly (ImpresU): study protocol for a European qualitative study followed by a pragmatic cluster randomised controlled trial
Authors: Hartman Esther A R , Groen Wim G , Heltveit-Olsen Silje Rebekka , Lindbaek Morten , Hoye Sigurd , Sundvall Pär-Daniel , Gunnarsson Ronny , Skoglund Ingmarie , Snaebjörnsson Arnljots Egill , Godycki-Cwirko Maciej , Kowalczyk Anna , Platteel Tamara N , Zuithoff Nicolaas P A , Monnier Annelie A , Verheij Theo J M , Hertogh Cees M P M , van de Pol Alma C
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Almost 60% of antibiotics in frail elderly are prescribed for alleged urinary tract infections (UTIs). A substantial part of this comprises prescriptions in case of non-specific symptoms or asymptomatic bacteriuria, for which the latest guidelines promote restrictiveness with antibiotics. We aim to reduce inappropriate antibiotic use for UTIs through an antibiotic stewardship intervention (ASI) that encourages to prescribe according to these guidelines. To develop an effective ASI, we first need a better understanding of the complex decision-making process concerning suspected UTIs in frail elderly. Moreover, the implementation approach requires tailoring to the heterogeneous elderly care setting.

Methods and analysis

First, we conduct a qualitative study to explore factors contributing to antibiotic prescribing for UTIs in frail elderly, using semi-structured interviews with general practitioners, nursing staff, patients and informal caregivers. Next, we perform a pragmatic cluster randomised controlled trial in elderly care organisations. A multifaceted ASI is implemented in the intervention group; the control group receives care as usual. The ASI is centred around a decision tool that promotes restrictive antibiotic use, supported by a toolbox with educational materials. For the implementation, we use a modified participatory-action-research approach, guided by the results of the qualitative study. The primary outcome is the number of antibiotic prescriptions for suspected UTIs. We aim to recruit 34 clusters with in total 680 frail elderly residents ≥70 years. Data collection takes place during a 5-month baseline period and a 7-month follow-up period. Finally, we perform a process evaluation. The study has been delayed for 6 months due to COVID-19 and is expected to end in July 2021.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approvals and/or waivers were obtained from the ethical committees in Poland, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden. The results will be disseminated through publication in peer-reviewed journals and conference presentations.

Trial registration number

NCT03970356.
Potential effect of antiseptic mouthwash on the incidence ofNeisseria gonorrhoeaeamong men who have sex with men: a mathematical modelling study
Authors: Xu Xianglong , Chow Eric P F , Shen Mingwang , Zou Zhuoru , Wang Chongjian , Ong Jason J , Fairley Christopher K , Zhang Lei
Published: October 2021

Objectives

The incidence ofNeisseria gonorrhoeaeand its antimicrobial resistance is increasing in many countries. Antibacterial mouthwash may reduce gonorrhoea transmission without using antibiotics. We modelled the effect that antiseptic mouthwash may have on the incidence of gonorrhoea.

Design

We developed a mathematical model of the transmission of gonorrhoea between each anatomical site (oropharynx, urethra and anorectum) in men who have sex with men (MSM). We constructed four scenarios: (1) mouthwash had no effect; (2) mouthwash increased the susceptibility of the oropharynx; (3) mouthwash reduced the transmissibility from the oropharynx; (4) the combined effect of mouthwash from scenarios 2 and 3.

Setting

We used data at three anatomical sites from 4873 MSM attending Melbourne Sexual Health Centre in 2018 and 2019 to calibrate our models and data from the USA, Netherlands and Thailand for sensitivity analyses.

Participants

Published available data on MSM with multisite infections of gonorrhoea.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Incidence of gonorrhoea.

Results

The overall incidence of gonorrhoea was 44 (95% CI 37 to 50)/100 person-years (PY) in scenario 1. Under scenario 2 (20%–80% mouthwash coverage), the total incidence increased (47–60/100 PY) and at all three anatomical sites by between 7.4% (5.9%–60.8%) and 136.6% (108.1%–177.5%). Under scenario 3, with the same coverage, the total incidence decreased (20–39/100 PY) and at all anatomical sites by between 11.6% (10.2%–13.5%) and 99.8% (99.2%–100%). Under scenario 4, changes in the incidence depended on the efficacy of mouthwash on the susceptibility or transmissibility. The effect on the total incidence varied (22–55/100 PY), and at all anatomical sites, there were increases of nearly 130% and large declines of almost 100%.

Conclusions

The effect of mouthwash on gonorrhoea incidence is largely predictable depending on whether it increases susceptibility to or reduces the transmissibility of gonorrhoea.
Space use in free-ranging canids: are gonadal hormones required for territory maintenance?
Authors: Gese Eric M. , Terletzky Patricia A.
Published: October 2021

Fertility control among carnivores has been used to reduce depredations on livestock and wild neonates, population control, modify behavior, inhibit genetic introgression, and reduce human–wildlife conflicts. Although there is considerable knowledge on techniques to sterilize carnivores, there is little information concerning how the absence of gonadal hormones influences behavior, space use, and survival of wild canids. We examined territorial fidelity, home-range size and overlap, and survival of 179 surgically sterilized free-ranging canids (124 coyotes (Canis latrans Say, 1823), 55 coyote – red wolf (Canis rufus Audubon and Bachman, 1851) hybrids) with gonadal hormones present (tubal-ligated females (n = 70), vasectomized males (n = 73)) versus absent (spayed females (n = 22), neutered males (n = 14)). The absence of gonadal hormones did not influence annual home-range size and home-range overlap, territory fidelity, and annual survival rates. Additionally, no differences were detected across sexes and hormonal treatments in annual home-range size, percent home-range overlap, annual home-range residency rates, and annual survival rates. Methods of fertility control that do not keep gonadal organs intact may prove useful for management without concern for changes in behavior, mainly territoriality, space use, and survival.
Greenberger–Horne–Zeilinger states: Their identifications and robust violations
Authors: Fan Xing-Yan , Zhou Jie , Meng Hui-Xian , Wu Chunfeng , Pati Arun Kumar , Chen Jing-Ling
Published: October 2021

The [Formula: see text]-qubit Greenberger–Horne–Zeilinger (GHZ) states are the maximally entangled states of [Formula: see text] qubits, which have had many important applications in quantum information processing, such as quantum key distribution and quantum secret sharing. Thus how to distinguish the GHZ states from other quantum states becomes a significant problem. In this work, by presenting a family of the generalized Clauser–Horne–Shimony–Holt (CHSH) inequality, we show that the [Formula: see text]-qubit GHZ states can be indeed identified by the maximal violations of the generalized CHSH inequality under some specific measurement settings. The generalized CHSH inequality is simple and contains only four correlation functions for any [Formula: see text]-qubit system, thus has the merit of facilitating experimental verification. Furthermore, we present a quantum phenomenon of robust violations of the generalized CHSH inequality in which the maximal violation of Bell’s inequality can be robust under some specific noises adding to the [Formula: see text]-qubit GHZ states.
Effects of exchange and weak Dzyaloshinsky–Moriya anisotropies on thermodynamic characteristics of spin-gapped magnets
Authors: Rakhimov Abdulla , Khudoyberdiev Asliddin , Tanatar B.
Published: October 2021

We study the modification of low-temperature properties of quantum magnets such as magnetization, heat capacity, energy spectrum and densities of condensed and noncondensed quasiparticles (triplons) due to anisotropies in the framework of mean-field- based approach. We show that in contrast to exchange anisotropy (EA) interaction, Dzyaloshinsky–Moriya (DM) interaction modifies the physics dramatically. Particularly, it changes the sign of the anomalous density in the whole range of temperatures. Its critical behavior is slightly modified also by the EA. We have found that the shift of the critical temperature of phase transition (or crossover caused by DM interaction) is positive and significant. Using the experimental data on the magnetization of the compound TlCuCl3, we have found optimal values for the strengths of EA and DM interactions. The spectrum of the energy of low lying excitations has also been investigated and found to develop a linear dispersion similar to Goldstone mode with a negligibly small anisotropy gap.
Design and Device Mismatch Analysis of CSS–UWB Pulse Generator
Authors: Benali Saif , Barraj Imen , Trabelsi Hatem
Published: October 2021

This paper presents the design of a Chirp Spread Spectrum (CSS), ultra-wideband (UWB), pulse generator (PG) and device mismatch impact on its performance. The proposed CSS-PG is built using a differential ring oscillator (RO) controlled by a ramp generator, allowing varying linearly the pulse frequency with time over the CSS pulse duration. Device mismatches and random variations during integrated circuit manufacturing are the most critical imperfections in high precision differential UWB voltage controlled RO circuit. These mismatches lead to behavioral variations of the PG. The proposed CSS-UWB-PG is designed and analyzed using CMOS 0.18[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m technology. The CSS-PG presents an output swing of 266[Formula: see text]mV Vpp for 20[Formula: see text]nsec and consumes 1.72[Formula: see text]mW for a PRF of 10[Formula: see text]MHz. The simulated PSD covers the UWB low band from 3[Formula: see text]GHz to 5[Formula: see text]GHz and complies with the FCC regulations. For [Formula: see text] mismatch, the simulation results show a maximum relative accuracy on oscillation frequency and phase noise of 3.43% and 6.9%, respectively. Monte Carlo and process simulation are performed to study the impact of the random parameter variation on this CSS-PG. Theses simulations show the robustness of the proposed design as the PG PSD is still inside the FCC-UWB mask and its bandwidth is greater than 500[Formula: see text]MHz.
Cosmic cloaking of rich extra dimensions
Authors: Alaee Aghil , Khuri Marcus , Kunduri Hari
Published: October 2021

We present arguments that show why it is difficult to see rich extra dimensions in the universe. Conditions are found where significant size and variation of the extra dimensions in a Kaluza–Klein compactification lead to a black hole in the lower-dimensional theory. The idea is based on the hoop conjecture concerning black hole existence, as well as on the observation that dimensional reduction on macroscopically large, twisted, or highly dynamical extra dimensions contributes positively to the energy density in the lower-dimensional theory and can induce gravitational collapse. A threshold for the size is postulated on the order of [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m, whereby extra dimensions of length above this level must lie inside black holes, thus cloaking them from the view of outside observers. The threshold depends on the size of the universe, leading to speculation that in the early stages of evolution truly macroscopic and large extra dimensions would have been visible.
The Varchenko matrix for topoplane arrangements
Authors: Randriamaro Hery
Published: October 2021

A topoplane is a mild deformation of a linear hyperplane contained in a given smooth manifold that is homeomorphic to a Euclidean space. We consider solidly transsective topoplane arrangements. These collections generalize pseudohyperplane arrangements. Even though the topoplane arrangements locally look like hyperplane arrangements, the global coning procedure is absent here. The main aim of the paper is to introduce the Varchenko matrix in this context and show that the determinant has a similar factorization as in the case of hyperplane arrangements. We achieve this by suitably generalizing the strategy of Aguiar and Mahajan. We also study a system of linear equations introduced by them and describe its solution space in the context of topoplane arrangements.
Wong–Zakai approximations and limiting dynamics of stochastic Ginzburg–Landau equations
Authors: Shu Ji , Ma Dandan , Huang Xin , Zhang Jian
Published: October 2021

This paper deals with the Wong–Zakai approximations and random attractors for stochastic Ginzburg–Landau equations with a white noise. We first prove the existence of a pullback random attractor for the approximate equation under much weaker conditions than the original stochastic equation. In addition, when the stochastic Ginzburg–Landau equation is driven by an additive white noise, we establish the convergence of solutions of Wong–Zakai approximations and the upper semicontinuity of random attractors of the approximate random system as the size of approximation tends to zero.
On rings whose quasi-injective modules are injective or semisimple
Authors: Saraç Bülent
Published: October 2021

Two obvious classes of quasi-injective modules are those of semisimples and injectives. In this paper, we study rings with no quasi-injective modules other than semisimples and injectives. We prove that such rings fall into three classes of rings, namely, (i) QI-rings, (ii) rings with no middle class, or (iii) rings that decompose into a direct product of a semisimple Artinian ring and a strongly prime ring. Thus, we restrict our attention to only strongly prime rings and consider hereditary Noetherian prime rings to shed some light on this mysterious case. In particular, we prove that among these rings, QIS-rings which are not of type (i) or (ii) above are precisely those hereditary Noetherian prime rings which are idealizer rings from non-simple QI-overrings.
Sufficient conditions for a pseudosymmetric spacetime to be a perfect fluid spacetime
Authors: Zhao Peibiao , De Uday Chand , Ünal Bülent , De Krishnendu
Published: October 2021

The aim of this paper is to obtain the condition under which a pseudosymmetric spacetime to be a perfect fluid spacetime. It is proven that a pseudosymmetric generalized Robertson–Walker spacetime is a perfect fluid spacetime. Moreover, we establish that a conformally flat pseudosymmetric spacetime is a generalized Robertson–Walker spacetime. Next, it is shown that a pseudosymmetric dust fluid with constant scalar curvature satisfying Einstein’s field equations without cosmological constant is vacuum. Finally, we construct a nontrivial example of pseudosymmetric spacetime.
Generalized evolutes of planar curves
Authors: Wang Yongqiao , Chang Yuan , Liu Haiming
Published: October 2021

The evolutes of regular curves in the Euclidean plane are given by the caustics of regular curves. In this paper, we define the generalized evolutes of planar curves which are spatial curves, and the projection of generalized evolutes along a fixed direction are the evolutes. We also prove that the generalized evolutes are the locus of centers of slant circles of the curvature of planar curves. Moreover, we define the generalized parallels of planar curves and show that the singular points of generalized parallels sweep out the generalized evolute. In general, we cannot define the generalized evolutes at the singular points of planar curves, but we can define the generalized evolutes of fronts by using moving frames along fronts and curvatures of the Legendre immersion. Then we study the behaviors of generalized evolutes at the singular points of fronts. Finally, we give some examples to show the generalized evolutes.
On the classification of Landsberg spherically symmetric Finsler metrics
Authors: Elgendi S. G.
Published: October 2021

In this paper, as an application of the inverse problem of calculus of variations, we investigate two compatibility conditions on the spherically symmetric Finsler metrics. By making use of these conditions, we focus our attention on the Landsberg spherically symmetric Finsler metrics. We classify all spherically symmetric manifolds of Landsberg or Berwald types. For the higher dimensions [Formula: see text], we prove that all Landsberg spherically symmetric manifolds are either Riemannian or their geodesic sprays have a specific formula; all regular Landsberg spherically symmetric metrics are Riemannian; all (regular or non-regular) Berwald spherically symmetric metrics are Riemannian. Moreover, we establish new unicorns, i.e. new explicit examples of non-regular non-Berwaldian Landsberg metrics are obtained. For the two-dimensional case, we characterize all Berwald or Landsberg spherically symmetric surfaces.
Canonical equivalence, quantization and inflation for higher-order theory of gravity
Authors: Debnath Subhra
Published: October 2021

Canonical formulation of higher-order theory of gravity has been attempted over decades. Different routes lead to different phase-space structures of the Hamiltonian. Although, these Hamiltonians are canonically equivalent at the classical level, their quantum counterparts may not be same, due to nonlinearity. Earlier, it has been proved that ‘Dirac constraint analysis’ (after taking care of divergent terms) and ‘Modified Horowitz’ Formalism’ lead to identical phase-space structure of the Hamiltonian for the gravitational action with scalar curvature squared terms. For the sake of completeness, this paper expatiates the extension of the same work for a general fourth-order gravitational action. Canonical quantization and semiclassical approximation are performed to explore that such a quantum theory transits successfully to a classical de-Sitter Universe. Inflation is also studied. Inflationary parameters show excellent agreement with the recently released Planck’s data.
A method for choosing the regularization parameter of determining the right-hand side from integral observation
Authors: Oanh Nguyen Thi Ngoc
Published: October 2021

In this paper, the inverse problem of reconstructing the right-hand side from integral observation is studied by using variational method to minimizing objective functional combining with Tikhonov regularization. The L-curve method is suggested for choosing the regularization parameter.