bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mode Stability for the Teukolsky Equation on Extremal and Subextremal Kerr Spacetimes
Authors: Teixeira da Costa Rita 
Published: July 2020

AbstractWe prove that there are no exponentially growing modes nor modes on the real axis for the Teukolsky equation on Kerr black hole spacetimes, both in the extremal and subextremal case. We also give a quantitative refinement of mode stability. As an immediate application, we show that the transmission and reflection coefficients of the scattering problem are bounded, independently of the specific angular momentum of the black hole, in any compact set of real frequencies excluding zero frequency and the superradiant threshold. While in the subextremal setting these results were known previously, the extremal case is more involved and has remained an open problem. Ours are the first results outside axisymmetry and could serve as a preliminary step towards understanding boundedness, scattering and decay properties of general solutions to the Teukolsky equation on extremal Kerr black holes.
On Some Non-existence Results in a Semilinear Theory of the Dipolar Thermoelastic Bodies
Authors: Marin Marin , Rădulescu Vicenţiu D. 
Published: July 2020

AbstractWe consider a thermoelastic theory in which the equations that govern the evolution are linear with respect to the thermal displacement and nonlinear with regards to gradients of displacements and temperature. Our results refer to the non-existence of solutions for some mixed problems, considered in this context. We also address the instability of solutions of the considered problems. We will treat separately the case where the mechanical effects are neglected, taking into account only the thermal effect. In this case our problem has a nonlinear structure.
Clinical validation of the novel HDAC6 radiotracer [18F]EKZ-001 in the human brain
Authors: Koole Michel , Van Weehaeghe Donatienne , Serdons Kim , Herbots Marissa , Cawthorne Christopher , Celen Sofie , Schroeder Frederick A. , Hooker Jacob M. , Bormans Guy , de Hoon Jan , Kranz Janice E. , Van Laere Koen , Gilbert Tonya M. 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Purpose
Histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) is a cytoplasmic enzyme that modulates intracellular transport and protein quality control. Inhibition of HDAC6 deacetylase activity has shown beneficial effects in disease models, including Alzheimer’s disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. This first-in-human positron emission tomography (PET) study evaluated the brain binding of [18F]EKZ-001 ([18F]Bavarostat), a radiotracer selective for HDAC6, in healthy adult subjects.

Methods
Biodistribution and radiation dosimetry studies were performed in four healthy subjects (2M/2F, 23.5 ± 2.4 years) using sequential whole-body PET/CT. The most appropriate kinetic model to quantify brain uptake was determined in 12 healthy subjects (6M/6F, 57.6 ± 3.7 years) from 120-min dynamic PET/MR scans using a radiometabolite-corrected arterial plasma input function. Four subjects underwent retest scans (2M/2F, 57.3 ± 5.6 years) with a 1-day interscan interval to determine test-retest variability (TRV). Regional volume of distribution (VT) was calculated using one-tissue and two-tissue compartment models (1-2TCM) and Logan graphical analysis (LGA), with time-stability assessed. VT differences between males and females were evaluated using volume of interest and whole-brain voxel-wise approaches.

Results
The effective dose was 39.1 ± 7.0 μSv/MBq. Based on the Akaike information criterion, 2TCM was the preferred model compared to 1TCM. Regional LGA VT were in agreement with 2TCM VT, however demonstrated a lower absolute TRV of 7.7 ± 4.9%. Regional VT values were relatively homogeneous with highest values in the hippocampus and entorhinal cortex. Reduction of acquisition time was achieved with a 0 to 60-min scan followed by a 90 to 120-min scan. Males demonstrated significantly higher VT than females in the majority of cortical and subcortical brain regions. No relevant radiotracer related adverse events were reported.

Conclusion
[18F]EKZ-001 is safe and appropriate for quantifying HDAC6 expression in the human brain with Logan graphical analysis as the preferred quantitative approach. Males showed higher HDAC6 expression across the brain compared to females.
Why are patients dissatisfied following a total knee replacement? A systematic review
Authors: Nakano Naoki , Shoman Haitham , Olavarria Fernando , Matsumoto Tomoyuki , Kuroda Ryosuke , Khanduja Vikas 
Published: July 2020

AbstractBackgroundAlthough total knee replacement (TKR) is an effective intervention for end-stage arthritis of the knee, a significant number of patients remain dissatisfied following this procedure. Our aim was to identify and assess the factors affecting patient satisfaction following a TKR.Materials and methodsIn accordance with the PRISMA guidelines, two reviewers searched the online databases for literature describing factors affecting patient satisfaction following a TKR. The research question and eligibility criteria were established a priori. Any clinical outcome study that described factors relating to overall satisfaction after primary TKR was included. Quality assessment for the included studies was performed by two accredited orthopaedic surgeons experienced in clinical research.ResultsThe systematic review identified 181 relevant articles in total. A history of mental health problems was the most frequently reported factor affecting patient satisfaction (13 reportings). When the results of the quality assessment were taken into consideration, a negative history of mental health problems, use of a mobile-bearing insert, patellar resurfacing, severe pre-operative radiological degenerative change, negative history of low back pain, no/less post-operative pain, good post-operative physical function and pre-operative expectations being met were considered to be important factors leading to better patient satisfaction following a TKR.ConclusionSurgeons performing a TKR should take these factors into consideration prior to deciding whether a patient is suitable for a TKR. Secondarily, a detailed explanation of these factors should form part of the process of informed consent to achieve better patient satisfaction following TKR. There is a great need for a unified approach to assessing satisfaction following a TKR and also the time at which satisfaction is assessed.
Learning curves, potential and speed in training of laparoscopic skills: a randomised comparative study in a box trainer
Authors: Kunert Wolfgang , Storz Pirmin , Dietz Nicolaus , Axt Steffen , Falch Claudius , Kirschniak Andreas , Wilhelm Peter 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background
The effectiveness of practical surgical training is characterised by an inherent learning curve. Decisive are individual initial starting capabilities, learning speed, ideal learning plateaus, and resulting learning potentials. The quantification of learning curves requires reproducible tasks with varied levels of difficulty. The hypothesis of this study is that the use of three-dimensional (3D) vision is more advantageous than two-dimensional vision (2D) for the learning curve in laparoscopic training.

Methods
Forty laparoscopy novices were recruited and randomised to a 2D Group and a 3D Group. A laparoscopy box trainer with two standardised tasks was used for training of surgical tasks. Task 1 was a positioning task, while Task 2 called for laparoscopic knotting as a more complex process. Each task was repeated at least ten times. Performance time and the number of predefined errors were recorded. 2D performance after 3D training was assessed in an additional final 2D cycle undertaken by the 3D Group.

Results
The calculated learning plateaus of both performance times and errors were lower for 3D. Independent of the vision mode the learning curves were smoother (exponential decay) and efficiency was learned faster than precision. The learning potentials varied widely depending on the corresponding initial values and learning plateaus. The final 2D performance time of the 3D-trained group was not significantly better than that of the 2D Group. The final 2D error numbers were similar for all groups.

Conclusions
Stereoscopic vision can speed up laparoscopic training. The 3D learning curves resulted in better precision and efficiency. The 3D-trained group did not show inferior performance in the final 2D cycle. Consequently, we encourage the training of surgical competences like suturing and knotting under 3D vision, even if it is not available in clinical routine.
Over a decade of single-center experience with thoracoscopic sympathicolysis for primary palmar hyperhidrosis: a case series
Authors: Mol Adam , Muensterer Oliver J. 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background
Primary palmar hyperhidrosis is a severely debilitating condition that can affect patients of any age. We report our experience with thoracoscopic sympathicolysis in a large cohort of children less than 14 years of age.

Methods
All children who underwent thoracoscopic sympathicolysis from April 2005 through January 2017 were evaluated retrospectively. The procedure entailed bilateral bipolar fulguration of the second and third thoracic ganglia with transverse disruption of collateral nerve fibers along the third and fourth rib. Demographic information, as well as postoperative outcome, complications, and satisfaction were analyzed.

Results
Over the 12 year study interval, a total of 102 children underwent thoracoscopic sympathicolysis for palmar hyperhidrosis. Complete follow-up was available for 98 patients (median age 12 [range 5–14] years; 38 boys [39%]). Median follow-up was 4 [range 2–12] years. Complete palmar dryness was achieved in 93 (95%) cases. One patient suffered postoperative unilateral ptosis, 6 reported gustatory sweating, and 65 experienced compensatory sweating. Average postoperative rating on a 1 (lowest) to 10 (highest) rating scale was 9, with 97 (99%) patients saying that they would undergo the procedure again.

Conclusion
Our technique of thoracoscopic sympathicolysis in children was associated with very high postoperative satisfaction, despite a high rate of compensatory sweating and occasional autonomic gustatory sweating. Other more severe complications in this age group were rare.
Characterization and dynamical stability of fully nonlinear strain solitary waves in a fluid-filled hyperelastic membrane tube
Authors: Il’íchev A. T. , Shargatov V. A. , Fu Y. B. 
Published: July 2020

AbstractWe first characterize strain solitary waves propagating in a fluid-filled membrane tube when the fluid is stationary prior to wave propagation and the tube is also subjected to a finite stretch. We consider the parameter regime where all traveling waves admitted by the linearized governing equations have nonzero speed. Solitary waves are viewed as waves of finite amplitude that bifurcate from the quiescent state of the system with the wave speed playing the role of the bifurcation parameter. Evolution of the bifurcation diagram with respect to the pre-stretch is clarified. We then study the stability of solitary waves for a representative case that is likely of most interest in applications, the case in which solitary waves exist with speed c lying in the interval $$[0, c_1)$$

[
0
,

c
1

)

where $$c_1$$

c
1

is the bifurcation value of c, and the wave amplitude is a decreasing function of speed. It is shown that there exists an intermediate value $$c_0$$

c
0

in the above interval such that solitary waves are spectrally stable if their speed is greater than $$c_0$$

c
0

and unstable otherwise.
Evaluation of two rapid molecular test systems to establish an algorithm for fast identification of bacterial pathogens from positive blood cultures
Authors: Oberhettinger Philipp , Zieger Jan , Autenrieth Ingo , Marschal Matthias , Peter Silke 
Published: July 2020

AbstractFast identification of pathogens directly from positive blood cultures is of highest importance to supply an adequate therapy of bloodstream infections (BSI). There are several platforms providing molecular-based identification, detection of antimicrobial resistance genes, or even a full antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST). Two of such test systems allowing rapid diagnostics were assessed in this study: The Biofire FilmArray® and the Genmark ePlex®, both fully automated test system with a minimum of hands-on time. Overall 137 BSI episodes were included in our study and compared to conventional culture–based reference methods. The FilmArray® is using one catridge including a panel for the most common bacterial and fungal BSI pathogens as well as selected resistance markers. The ePlex® offers three different cartridges for detection of Gram-positives, Gram-negatives, and fungi resulting in a broader panel including also rare pathogens, putative contaminants, and more genetic resistance markers. The FilmArray® and ePlex® were evaluated for all 137 BSI episodes with FilmArray® detecting 119 and ePlex® detecting 128 of these. For targets on the respective panel of the system, the FilmArray® generated a sensitivity of 98.9% with 100% specificity on Gram-positive isolates. The ePlex® system generated a sensitivity of 94.7% and a specificity of 90.7% on Gram-positive isolates. In each case, the two systems performed with 100% sensitivity and specificity for the detection of Gram-negative specimens covered by each panel. In summary, both evaluated test systems showed a satisfying overall performance for fast pathogen identification and are beneficial tools for accelerating blood culture diagnostics of sepsis patients.
Bacterial vaginosis-associated vaginal microbiota is an age-independent risk factor for Chlamydia trachomatis, Mycoplasma genitalium and Trichomonas vaginalis infections in low-risk women, St. Petersburg, Russia
Authors: Shipitsyna Elena , Khusnutdinova Tatiana , Budilovskaya Olga , Krysanova Anna , Shalepo Kira , Savicheva Alevtina , Unemo Magnus 
Published: July 2020

AbstractThe large majority of studies investigating associations between bacterial vaginosis (BV) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have been conducted among predominantly young women with high risk for STIs. Since a risky sexual behavior is a significant risk factor for both STIs and BV, this creates a bias toward an increased association between BV and STIs. This study evaluated associations between BV-associated vaginal microbiota and STIs (Chlamydia trachomatis, Mycoplasma genitalium, Trichomonas vaginalis, and Neisseria gonorrhoeae) in a population of women with low risk for STIs and investigated STI outcomes depending on the dominating Lactobacillus species. Repository cervicovaginal samples collected from reproductive-age women from January 2014 to February 2019 were characterized for vaginal microbiota types and the STIs using multiplex real-time PCR assays. In total, 95 STI-positive and 91 STI-negative samples were included. A significant, age-independent association between BV-associated vaginal microbiota and the presence of C. trachomatis, M. genitalium, and T. vaginalis infections was identified (age-adjusted odds ratios 2.92 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.24–7.03], 2.88 [95% CI 1.19–7.16], and 9.75 × 107 [95% CI 13.03-∞], respectively). Normal vaginal microbiota dominated by Lactobacillus crispatus, L. gasseri, or L. jensenii was a strong protective factor against C. trachomatis and/or M. genitalium infections, whereas L. iners-dominated microbiota was not significantly associated with C. trachomatis and/or M. genitalium positivity. The results of the present study confirm that STI prevention strategies should include interventions that also reduce the incidence of BV and promote a protective vaginal microbiota in both high- and low-risk women.
Trends in diagnostic methods and treatment of latent tuberculosis infection in a tertiary care center from 2000 to 2017
Authors: Uzorka Jonathan W. , Duinkerk Dinah L. , Kroft Lucia J. M. , Bakker Jaap A. , Ramai Rajen S. R. S. , Ottenhoff Tom H. M. , Arend Sandra M. 
Published: July 2020

AbstractScreening for latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is indicated before immunosuppressive therapies but is complicated by lack of a gold standard and limited by, e.g., immunosuppression. This study aimed to investigate a series of patients diagnosed with LTBI during screening before immunosuppressive therapy, describing how the use of diagnostic tests and treatment evolved over time. This retrospective cohort study included all individuals diagnosed with LTBI during screening before intended immunosuppressive therapy in a tertiary care hospital between January 2000 and December 2017. Evidence for LTBI, including history, tuberculin skin test (TST), QuantiFERON (QFT) result and suggestive lesions on chest radiography (CXR), and CT scan if available, was analyzed. The study included 295 individuals with LTBI, with median follow-up of 3.8 years (IQR 1.7–7.4 years). During screening, TST, QFT, and CXR were positive in 80.8%, 53.4%, and 22.7%, respectively. Chest CT revealed lesions associated with past tuberculosis infection in around 70%, significantly more frequent than CXR. In patients diagnosed with LTBI, we observed that the use of TST declined over time whereas the use of QFT increased, and that isoniazid was replaced with rifampicin as preferential treatment. Preventive treatment was started in 82.3%, of whom 88.6% completed treatment. During follow-up, no individuals developed active tuberculosis. The diagnosis of LTBI was based on history, TST, QFT, and/or CXR in nearly every possible combination, but mostly on TST and QFT. The most striking trends were the decreased use of TST, increased use of QFT, and the replacement of isoniazid with rifampicin for treatment.
Molecular epidemiology of carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales in Finland, 2012–2018
Authors: Räisänen Kati , Lyytikäinen Outi , Kauranen Jari , Tarkka Eveliina , Forsblom-Helander Benita , Grönroos Juha O. , Vuento Risto , Arifulla Dinah , Sarvikivi Emmi , Toura Saija , Jalava Jari 
Published: July 2020

AbstractCarbapenemase-producingEnterobacterales(CPE) pose an increasing threat to patient safety and healthcare systems globally. We present molecular epidemiology of CPE in Finland during 2012–2018 with detailed characteristics of CPE strains causing clusters during the same time period. All Finnish clinical microbiology laboratories sendEnterobacteralesisolates with reduced susceptibility to carbapenems or isolates producing carbapenemase to the reference laboratory for further characterization by whole genome sequencing (WGS). In total, 231 CPE strains from 202 patients were identified during 2012–2018. Of the strains, 59% were found by screening and 32% from clinical specimens, the latter were most commonly urine. Travel and/or hospitalization history abroad was reported for 108/171 strains (63%). The most common species wereKlebsiella pneumoniae(45%),Escherichia coli(40%), andCitrobacter freundii(6%), and the most common carbapenemase genesblaNDM-like(35%),blaOXA-48-like(33%), andblaKPC-like(31%). During 2012–2018, the annual number of CPE strains increased from 9 to 70 and different sequence types from 7 to 33, andblaOXA-48-likegenes became the most prevalent. Of the clusters, 3/8 were linked to traveling or hospitalization abroad and 5/8 were caused byK. pneumoniaeclone clonal complex 258. Most of the clusters were caused byK. pneumoniaeproducing KPC. High variety among different sequence types indicates that majority of CPE cases detected in Finland are likely imported from foreign countries. Nearly one-third of the cases are not found by screening suggesting that there is hidden transmission occurring in the healthcare settings.
Emergence of linezolid-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis in the tertiary children’s hospital in Cracow, Poland
Authors: Kosecka-Strojek Maja , Sadowy Ewa , Gawryszewska Iwona , Klepacka Joanna , Tomasik Tomasz , Michalik Michal , Hryniewicz Waleria , Miedzobrodzki Jacek 
Published: July 2020

AbstractCoagulase-negative staphylococci, ubiquitous commensals of human skin, and mucous membranes represent important pathogens for immunocompromised patients and neonates. The increasing antibiotic resistance amongStaphylococcus epidermidisis an emerging problem worldwide. In particular, the linezolid-resistantS. epidermidis(LRSE) strains are observed in Europe since 2014. The aim of our study was to genetically characterize 11 LRSE isolates, recovered mostly from blood in the University Children’s Hospital in Krakow, Poland, between 2015 and 2017. For identification of the isolates at the species level, we used 16S rRNA sequencing and RFLP of thesaoCgene. Isolates were characterized phenotypically by determining their antimicrobial resistance patterns and using molecular methods such as PFGE, MLST, SCCmectyping, detection of theicaoperon, and analysis of antimicrobial resistance determinants. All isolates were multidrug-resistant, including resistance to methicillin, and exhibited so-called PhLOPSAphenotype. In PFGE, all isolates (excluding one from a catheter) represented identical patterns, were identified as ST2, and harbored theicaoperon, responsible for biofilm formation. Linezolid resistance was associated with acquisition of A157R mutation in the ribosomal protein L3 and the presence ofcfrgene. All isolates revealed new SCCmeccassette element composition. Recently, pediatric patients with serious staphylococcal infections are often treated with linezolid. The increasing linezolid resistance in bacterial strains becomes a real threat for patients, and monitoring such infections combined with surveillance and infection prevention programs is very important to decrease number of linezolid-resistant staphylococcal strains.
Human infections caused by Staphylococcus argenteus in Germany: genetic characterisation and clinical implications of novel species designation
Authors: Alhussein Farah , Fürstenberg Judith , Gaupp Rosmarie , Eisenbeis Janina , Last Katharina , Becker Sören L. , Papan Cihan 
Published: July 2020

AbstractWe report a series of Staphylococcus argenteus infections from Saarland, Germany. Travel histories were unremarkable for extra-European sojourns, indicating an autochthonous transmission mode. Multilocus sequence typing revealed that all isolates were members of the clonal complex CC2250. In only one case, guideline-adherent treatment with an isoxazolyl penicillin was prescribed. Our report illustrates the perils of novel species designations, which may lead to misconceptions and suboptimal treatment choices among clinicians.
Financial contagion through space-time point processes
Authors: Adelfio Giada , Agosto Arianna , Chiodi Marcello , Giudici Paolo 
Published: July 2020

AbstractWe propose to study the dynamics of financial contagion by means of a class of point process models employed in the modeling of seismic contagion. The proposal extends network models, recently introduced to model financial contagion, in a space-time point process perspective. The extension helps to improve the assessment of credit risk of an institution, taking into account contagion spillover effects.