bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The electronic structure of the actinide oxides and their singly and doubly charged cations: A ligand field approach
Authors: Kaledin Leonid A. , Kaledin Alexey L. , Heaven Michael C. 
Published: December 2020

AbstractLigand field theory (LFT) calculations of energy levels were performed for the neutral actinide monooxides (AnO) and their singly and doubly ionized cations (AnO+ and AnO2+) by treating the molecular electronic states as Anm+ free‐ion energy levels (where An ∈ Th through Lr and m = 1, 2, 3, or 4) perturbed by the electric field of O2−or O−. LFT parameters obtained from fits to the energy levels of ThO, ThO+, UO, and UO+ were used to compute molecular energy levels for the lowest energy (maximum Sc, maximum Lc) 5f‐core states of An4+, An3+, An2+, and An+ for the majority of the An4+O2−, An3+O−, An3+O2−, An2+O−, An2+O2−, and An+O− electronic configurations. Simple linear relationships enabled predictions of the dissociation energies for AnO, AnO+ and AnO2+ (where An ∈ Bk through Lr) and ionization energies for AnO and AnO+ (where An ∈ Bk through Lr), mainly based on recent accurate experimental data for the ionization energies of An atoms (where An ∈ Fm, Md, No, and Lr) and correlations with the energetics of the atoms and ions.
Topological indices computing on random chain structures
Authors: Li Siman , Shi Li , Gao Wei 
Published: December 2020

AbstractTopological indices are a vital tool in QSAR/QSPR study, and Randić index and Zagreb index are mostly historical and well‐known indices which have been widely used to predict the properties of compounds. In recent years, to meet the demands from various engineering applications, some variants of Randić index and Zagreb index are defined and investigated. In this work, we determine the redefined Zagreb indices, forgotten index, reduced reciprocal Randić index and reduced second Zagreb index for random polyphenyl chain and random spiro chain which are produced by zeroth‐order Markov process and frequently appears in the field of materials and pharmacology. Furthermore, the average values and special settings in p1 or p2 to be zero are discussed.
Chemopreventive effect of dieckol against 7,12‐dimethylbenz(a)anthracene induced skin carcinogenesis model by modulatory influence on biochemical and antioxidant biomarkers
Authors: Xiao Wenming , Liu Hongyan , Lei Ying , Gao Huawei , Alahmadi Tahani Awad , Peng Haitao , Chen Wei 
Published: December 2020

ABSTRACTSkin cancer is the commonly found type, which contributes to 40% of whole cancer incidences worldwide. Dieckol is an active compound occurs in the marine algae with many biological benefits. In this exploration, we intended to investigate the therapeutic potency of dieckol against the 7,12‐dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA)‐triggered skin carcinogenesis in mice. The skin cancer was stimulated to the animals via injecting the 25 μg of DMBA in 100 μL of acetone in shaved dorsal portion along with the 30 mg/kg of dieckol supplementation for 25 week. The antioxidant enzymes and phase‐I and –II detoxifying enzymes in the test animals were inspected via standard protocols. Pro‐inflammatory markers (IL‐6, IL‐1β, and TNF‐α) level was examined via ELISA kits and the expression of inflammatory molecular markers like p‐NF‐ƙB, IƙBα and p‐IƙBα were studied through western blotting. The expression status of pro‐ and anti‐apoptotic proteins (p53, Bax, Bcl‐2, caspase‐3, caspase‐9, COX‐2, TGF‐β1) was investigated via real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). Our results revealed that the 30 mg/kg of dieckol supplementation noticeably regained the body and liver weight and also diminished the tumor incidence in the DMBA‐incited animals. Dieckol treatment exhibited an enhanced antioxidants (SOD, CAT, GPx, and GSH) and reduced phase‐I enzymes Cyt‐p450 and Cyt‐b5 in the DMBA‐induced animals. Dieckol also diminished the pro‐inflammatory modulators like IL‐6, IL‐1β and TNF‐α. Western blotting result evidenced that the dieckol was inhibited the IƙB/NF‐ƙB signaling pathway. RT‐PCR study proved the enhanced expression of pro‐apoptotic protein (p53, Bax, caspase‐3 and ‐9) in the dieckol treated animals. Histological study also confirmed the therapeutic benefits of Dieckol. Altogether with these findings, it was clear that the dieckol has appreciably allayed the DMBA activated skin tumorigenesis in the mice and it could be a promising agent to treat the human skin cancer in future.
Simultaneous Strain and Temperature Measurement Based on Chaotic Brillouin Optical Correlation-Domain Analysis in Large-Effective-Area Fibers
Authors: Zhang Xiaocheng , Liu Shuangshuang , Zhang Jianzhong , Qiao Lijun , Wang Tao , Gao Shaohua , Zhang Mingjiang 
Published: December 2020

AbstractChaotic Brillouin optical correlation domain analysis (BOCDA) has been proposed and experimentally demonstrated with the advantage of high spatial resolution. However, it faces the same issue of the temperature and strain cross-sensitivity. In this paper, the simultaneous measurement of temperature and strain can be preliminarily achieved by analyzing the two Brillouin frequencies of the chaotic laser in a large-effective-area fiber (LEAF). A temperature resolution of 1 °C and a strain resolution of 20 µε can be obtained with a spatial resolution of 3.9 cm. The actual temperature and strain measurement errors are 0.37 °C and 10 µε, respectively, which are within the maximum measurement errors.
Normativity in Plato’s Philebus
Authors: Fisher Jeffrey J. 
Published: December 2020

AbstractThis paper extracts and articulates the account of normativity in Plato’s Philebus. Central to this account is the concept of measure, which plays both an ontological and a normative role. With regard to the former, measure is what makes particular things to be the specific kind of thing they are; with regard to the latter, measure supplies the appropriate standard for determining whether or not those things are good or bad instances of their kind. As a result of measure playing these two roles, normative evaluation is grounded in the ontological structure of the thing being evaluated.
Management of SARS-CoV-2 Transmission in Emergency Dental Settings: Current Knowledge and Personal Experience
Authors: Negucioiu Marius , Bucur Alexandru , Lucaciu Ondine , Soanca Andrada , Roman Alexandra 
Published: December 2020

AbstractThe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has seen a violent and fast spread worldwide. The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has a predominantly respiratory transmission through droplets and aerosol with serious implications for dental settings. This article is based on recent research, guidelines issued by relevant authorities, as well as on the authors’ experience acquired through their involvement in setting up an emergency dental care hub in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, during the COVID-19 lockdown. The present article aims to provide a brief description of COVID-19 implications in dental office and to recommend preventive protocols for dental practitioners to ensure a safe and healthful workplace. The recommendations for infection control presented in this article address the specific risks of exposure to SARS-CoV-2. The article provides a special customized guideline covering patient triage and entrance into the dental practice, personnel protection, dental treatment, and after-treatment management. The implementation of strict preventive measures has been found to be efficient in the prevention of SARS-CoV-2 contamination because no infections have been reported among our staff or patients. COVID-19 is a major emergency worldwide marked by a rapid evolution and warranting a need for further assessment of the implications of COVID-19 outbreak in dental practice.
Municipality-Level Predictors of COVID-19 Mortality in Mexico: A Cautionary Tale
Authors: Contreras-Manzano Alejandra , Guerrero-López Carlos M. , Aguerrebere Mercedes , Sedas Ana Cristina , Lamadrid-Figueroa Héctor 
Published: December 2020

AbstractObjective:Local characteristics of populations have been associated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outcomes. We analyze the municipality-level factors associated with a high COVID-19 mortality rate (MR) of in Mexico.Methods:We retrieved information from cumulative confirmed symptomatic cases and deaths from COVID-19 as of June 20, 2020, and data from most recent census and surveys of Mexico. A negative binomial regression model was adjusted, the dependent variable was the number of COVID-19 deaths, and the independent variables were the quintiles of the distribution of sociodemographic and health characteristics among the 2457 municipalities of Mexico.Results:Factors associated with high MRs from COVID-19, relative to quintile 1, were diabetes and obesity prevalence, diabetes mortality rate, indigenous population, economically active population, density of economic units that operate essential activities, and population density. Among factors inversely associated with lower MRs from COVID-19 were high hypertension prevalence and houses without sewage drainage. We identified 1351 municipalities without confirmed COVID-19 deaths, of which, 202 had high and 82 very high expected COVID-19 mortality (mean = 8 and 13.8 deaths per 100,000, respectively).Conclusion:This study identified municipalities of Mexico that could lead to a high mortality scenario later in the epidemic and warns against premature easing of mobility restrictions and to reinforce strategies of prevention and control of outbreaks in communities vulnerable to COVID-19.
Effects of Student Life on the Prevention of SARS-CoV-2 Spread at University
Authors: Sial Moska , Purohit Manavi , Bone Matan 
Published: December 2020

AbstractThe 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been a pandemic in need of controlling. The disease has taken its toll on universities; as a consequence, universities must prepare their campuses in such a way that will reduce the spread of SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 and ensure the safety of their students. This is why it is necessary to critically assess the risks involved in reopening university campuses. This letter to the editor highlights the importance of the social side of student life on campus and how it might affect the precautions put in place to reduce SARS-CoV-2 transmission. Furthermore, this letter is proposing potential courses of action for universities to take during the pandemic for the forthcoming academic year. The ability of universities to contain the spread of the virus is limited, as they lack control over social interactions outside of campus. We discuss the multifaceted approach needed to educate students about off-campus transmission to prevent SARS-CoV-2 transmission.
Vertical Displacement Caused by Hydrological Influence in the Amazon Basin
Authors: Ferreira Lavoisiane , Marotta Giuliano S. , Madden Elizabeth H. , Horbe Adriana M. C. , Santos Roberto V. , Costa José M. N. 
Published: December 2020

AbstractHydrologic loading studies are related to variables such as soil moisture, precipitation, and groundwater. These parameters are associated with water mass movements, which may affect the positioning of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) stations and the gravitational field in a seasonal mode. This study addresses the relationship between displacement and deformation variations observed in the Amazon Basin and local geological and climatic features. It also aims to understand mechanisms that may influence the water distribution and mass movement during the hydrological cycle. We have correlated the vertical displacement with soil moisture at different depths in the Amazon Basin. Our approach takes into consideration topography, soil type, water storage, hydrologic deformation model used, sediment thickness, and geology. We show that amplitude variation of soil moisture and water storage parameters depends on the region's geological nature, that is, whether it is dominated by sedimentary or igneous/metamorphic rocks. In areas dominated by sedimentary rocks, soil moisture increases with depth, while in regions dominated by igneous and metamorphic rocks, soil moisture decreases with depth. We conclude that geology and topography influence the vertical displacement associated with the hydrologic loading. We further show an East‐West gradient in the Amazon Basin, in which the largest amplitudes of vertical displacement occur in the sedimentary basins to the East. A few stations in the sedimentary basins have less vertical displacement than expected. We argue that these areas may be associated with thinner and more compact sedimentary rock, or even with intrusive igneous rocks.
Sex differences in immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 in patients with COVID-19
Authors: Zhao Guolian , Xu Yazhou , Li Jing , Cui Xiaoli , Tan Xiaowen , Zhang Hongyue , Dang Liyun 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Millions of people infected by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) have been diagnosed with coronavirus infectious disease 2019 (COVID-19). The prevalence and severity of COVID-19 differ between sexes. To explain these differences, we analyzed clinical features and laboratory values in male and female COVID-19 patients. The present study included a cohort of 111 people, i.e. 36 COVID-19 patients, 54 sex- and age-matched common viral community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) patients, and 21 healthy controls. Monocyte counts, lymphocyte subset counts, and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels in the peripheral blood were analyzed. Higher Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) scores, monocyte counts, and CRP and ALT levels were found in male COVID-19 patients. Decreased lymphocyte subset counts and proportions were observed in COVID-19 patients, except for the CD3+ and CD8+ T cell proportions. The lower CD4+ T cell proportions and higher CD8+ T cell proportions were observed in male and severe COVID-19 patients and the differences were independent of estrogen level. The CD4+ T cell proportion was negatively associated with the CD8+ T cell proportion in male COVID-19 patients; this correlation was non-significant in females. Our work demonstrates differences between sexes in circulating monocyte counts and CD4+ T cell and CD8+ T cell proportions in COVID-19 patients, independent of estrogen levels, are associated with the clinical manifestations in COVID-19 patients with high specificity.
Simulation-Based Ultrasound Training in Obstetrics and Gynecology: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Taksøe-Vester Caroline , Dyre Liv , Schroll Jeppe , Tabor Ann , Tolsgaard Martin 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Objective The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to examine the effects of simulation-based ultrasound training (SIM-UT) in obstetrics and gynecology compared to non-SIM-UT on trainee learning, clinical performance, patient-relevant outcomes, and cost of training.
Methods A systematic search was performed in June 2019 in PubMed, Embase, and Scopus using search terms for the topic and the intervention as well as certain MESH terms. Inclusion criteria were defined in accordance with the PICO question. Studies published in any language involving SIM-UT in obstetrics and gynecology compared to non-SIM-UT or no training were included. The outcomes included effects on health care provider learning and clinical performance, patient-relevant outcomes, and cost of training. Two authors evaluated the study quality with the MERSQI instrument and the Oxford Quality Scoring System. A meta-analysis was planned for the included randomized controlled trials.
Results 15 studies were included, and 11 studies were eligible for meta-analysis. SIM-UT was significantly superior to clinical training only and theoretical teaching with standard mean differences (SMD) of 0.84 (0.08–1.61) and 1.20 (0.37–2.04), respectively. However, SIM-UT was not superior to live model training; SMD of 0.65 (–3.25–4.55). Of all studies included in the meta-analysis, 91 % favored SIM-UT over clinical training alone, theoretical teaching, or in some cases live model training.
Conclusion In the field of obstetrics and gynecology, SIM-UT in addition to clinical training markedly improves trainee learning, clinical performance, as well as patient-perceived quality of care.
Backfitting tests in generalized structured models
Authors: Mammen E , Sperlich S 
Published: December 2020

Summary
We introduce bootstrap tests for semiparametric generalized structured models. These can be used for testing different kinds of model specifications like separability, functional forms and homogeneity of effects, or for performing variable selection in a large class of semiparametric models. The test statistics are based on the comparison of non- and semiparametric alternatives in which both the null hypothesis and the alternative are non- or semiparametric. All estimators are obtained by smooth backfitting. Simulation studies show excellent performance of the test procedures.
Stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation: comparison of recent international guidelines
Authors: Chao Tze-Fan , Nedeljkovic Milan A , Lip Gregory Y H , Potpara Tatjana S 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Stroke prevention is one of the cornerstones of management in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). As part of the ABC (Atrial fibrillation Better Care) pathway (A: Avoid stroke/Anticoagulation; B: Better symptom control; C: Cardiovascular risk and comorbidity optimisation), stroke risk assessment and appropriate thromboprophylaxis is emphasised. Various guidelines have addressed stroke prevention. In this review, we compared the 2017 APHRS, 2018 ACCP, 2019 ACC/AHA/HRS, and 2020 ESC AF guidelines regarding the stroke/bleeding risk assessment and recommendations about the use of OAC. We also aimed to highlight some unique points for each of those guidelines. All four guidelines recommend the use of the CHA2DS2-VASc score for stroke risk assessment, and OAC (preferably NOACs in all NOAC-eligible patients) is recommended for AF patients with a CHA2DS2-VASc score ≥2 (males) or ≥3 (females). Guidelines also emphasize the importance of stroke risk reassessments at periodic intervals (e.g. 4–6 months) to inform treatment decisions (e.g. initiation of OAC in patients no longer at low risk of stroke) and address potentially modifiable bleeding risk factors.
Effect of Pluronic-F68 fog solution on performance and morbidity of newly received heifer calves
Authors: Sowers Consuelo A , Gouvêa Vinicius N , Barnes Michael L , Duff Glenn C 
Published: December 2020

Abstract:
Morbidity and mortality from bovine respiratory disease (BRD) of newly received feedlot cattle continue to be problems for the feedlot industry. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of utilizing a novel breathing treatment containing a nonionic surfactant (Pluronic-F68) on performance and morbidity of high-risk calves during a 45-d receiving period. Angus/Angus-cross heifer calves (n = 240) were acquired in Delhi, LA, and transported (14 h) to the research facility. Heifers were allowed 21-h rest with access to water and RAMP prior to processing. Heifers were sorted into 16 pens by processing order and randomized by pen into one of two treatments: novel breathing treatment containing 6.25% Pluronic-F68 solution, 28.13% glycerin, and 65.62% water (FOG; n = 8 pens per treat and 15 heifers per pen) and control (CON; n = 8 pens per treat and 15 heifers per pen). Control heifers were held in an enclosed stock trailer for 10 min and followed by FOG heifers, during which time treatment was administered. The person responsible for identifying signs of morbidity was blinded to treatment assignments. Data were analyzed as a completely randomized design using MIXED (continuous) or GLIMIX (binomial) models of SAS 9.4. Average daily gain was similar between treatments (P = 0.91). No differences were found in dry matter intake (P = 0.14) nor in gain efficiency (P = 0.58). There were no differences (P = 0.74) in final body weights. Morbidity was similar at first, second, and third antimicrobial administration regardless of treatment (P ≥ 0.34). The number of antimicrobial treatments required or the management of BRD was similar between treatments (P = 0.72). There was no difference (P = 0.44) in mortality between FOG and CON groups. The Pluronic-F68 solution did not improve performance or reduce morbidity of newly received heifer calves; however, further research with a different concentration and/or duration of fogging may be warranted.
Evaluation of Organ Dysfunction Scores for Allocation of Scarce Resources in Critically Ill Children and Adults During a Healthcare Crisis*
Authors: Sanchez-Pinto L. Nelson , Parker William F. , Mayampurath Anoop , Derrington Sabrina , Michelson Kelly N. 
Published: December 2020

Objectives:
When healthcare systems are overwhelmed, accurate assessments of patients’ predicted mortality risks are needed to ensure effective allocation of scarce resources. Organ dysfunction scores can serve this essential role, but their evaluation in this context has been limited so far. In this study, we sought to assess the performance of three organ dysfunction scores in both critically ill adults and children at clinically relevant mortality thresholds and timeframes for resource allocation and compare it with two published prioritization schemas.

Design:
Retrospective observational cohort study.

SETTING:
Three large academic medical centers in the United States.

PATIENTS:
Critically ill adults and children.

Interventions:
None.

Measurements and Main Results:
We calculated the daily Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score in adults and the Pediatric Logistic Organ Dysfunction 2 score and the Pediatric Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score in children. There were 49,290 (11.6% mortality) and 19,983 children (2.5% mortality) included in the analysis. Both the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment and Pediatric Sequential Organ Failure Assessment scores had adequate discrimination across relevant timeframes and adequate distribution across relevant mortality thresholds. Additionally, we found that the only published state prioritization schema that includes pediatric and adult patients had poor alignment of mortality risks, giving adults a systematic advantage over children.

Conclusions:
In the largest analysis of organ dysfunction scores in a general population of critically ill adults and children to date, we found that both the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment and Pediatric Sequential Organ Failure Assessment scores had adequate performance across relevant mortality thresholds and timeframes for resource allocation. Published prioritization schemas that include both pediatric and adult patients may put children at a disadvantage. Furthermore, the distribution of patient and mortality risk in the published schemas may not adequately stratify patients for some high-stakes allocation decisions. This information may be useful to bioethicists, healthcare leaders, and policy makers who are developing resource allocation policies for critically ill patients.