bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Unyvero Hospital-Acquired pneumonia panel for diagnosis of secondary bacterial pneumonia in COVID-19 patients
Authors: Tellapragada Chaitanya , Giske Christian G. 
Published: March 2021

AbstractThe study was undertaken to evaluate the performance of Unyvero Hospitalized Pneumonia (HPN) panel application, a multiplex PCR-based method for the detection of bacterial pathogens from lower respiratory tract (LRT) samples, obtained from COVID-19 patients with suspected secondary hospital-acquired pneumonia. Residual LRT samples obtained from critically ill COVID-19 patients with predetermined microbiological culture results were tested using the Unyvero HPN Application. Performance evaluation of the HPN Application was carried out using the standard-of-care (SoC) microbiological culture findings as the reference method. Eighty-three LRT samples were used in the evaluation. The HPN Application had a full concordance with SoC findings in 59/83 (71%) samples. The new method detected additional bacterial species in 21 (25%) and failed at detecting a bacterial species present in lower respiratory culture in 3 (3.6%) samples. Overall the sensitivity, specificity, positive, and negative predictive values of the HPN Application were 95.1% (95%CI 96.5–98.3%), 98.3% (95% CI 97.5–98.9%), 71.6% (95% CI 61.0–80.3%), and 99.8% (95% CI 99.3–99.9%), respectively. In conclusion, the HPN Application demonstrated higher diagnostic yield in comparison with the culture and generated results within 5 h.
An active-set algorithm for norm constrained quadratic problems
Authors: Rontsis Nikitas , Goulart Paul J. , Nakatsukasa Yuji 
Published: March 2021

AbstractWe present an algorithm for the minimization of a nonconvex quadratic function subject to linear inequality constraints and a two-sided bound on the 2-norm of its solution. The algorithm minimizes the objective using an active-set method by solving a series of trust-region subproblems (TRS). Underpinning the efficiency of this approach is that the global solution of the TRS has been widely studied in the literature, resulting in remarkably efficient algorithms and software. We extend these results by proving that nonglobal minimizers of the TRS, or a certificate of their absence, can also be calculated efficiently by computing the two rightmost eigenpairs of an eigenproblem. We demonstrate the usefulness and scalability of the algorithm in a series of experiments that often outperform state-of-the-art approaches; these include calculation of high-quality search directions arising in Sequential Quadratic Programming on problems of the collection, and Sparse Principal Component Analysis on a large text corpus problem (70 million nonzeros) that can help organize documents in a user interpretable way.
Observations from the 26th November 2019 Albania earthquake: the earthquake engineering field investigation team (EEFIT) mission
Authors: Freddi Fabio , Novelli Viviana , Gentile Roberto , Veliu Enes , Andreev Stoyan , Andonov Anton , Greco Federica , Zhuleku Emiljano 
Published: March 2021

AbstractOn the 26th of November 2019, an earthquake of moment magnitude 6.4 struck the northwest region of Albania as the result of thrust faulting near the convergent boundary of the Africa and Eurasia plates causing widespread damage to buildings in the city of Durrës and the surrounding areas. Based on the official data from the national authorities, the earthquake caused 51 casualties and 985 million-euro losses, corresponding to 7.5% of the 2018 gross domestic product. This paper summarises field observations made by the Earthquake Engineering Field Investigation Team (EEFIT) after the event. The paper presents an overview of the seismological aspects of the earthquake together with a brief overview of the damage, official loss statistics and the estimated macro- and socio-economic consequences of the event. In addition, it provides a summary of the observed damage to both recent and historical buildings as well as the description of several case studies to illustrate the characteristic damage patterns observed in the main structural typologies of the Albanian building stock. These observations try to identify possible links between the observed damage patterns and the deficiencies in construction practice and use of inappropriate retrofit techniques for historical assets. As many severe damages were observed on modern buildings, this also allows the identification of some gaps and possible areas of development of the current seismic design code. In the end, the lessons learned from the field survey are resumed.
Foliar endophytes in trees varying greatly in age
Authors: Yu Zhongdong , Ding Hongru , Shen Kuocheng , Bu Fangfang , Newcombe George , Liu Huixiang 
Published: March 2021

AbstractTemple trees, including the gymnosperm Platycladus orientalis and the angiosperm Styphnolobium japonicum, have been planted in China for thousands of years. Tree age thus varies widely from young to ancient trees. Foliar endophytes of P. orientalis and S. japonicum were surveyed in this exploratory study that was based on isolation into culture and sequencing of fungi from trees varying in age from 10 to 5000 years (P. orientalis) and from 10 to 1700 years (S. japonicum). Sequenced endophytes of P. orientalis and S. japonicum belonged to 24 and 16 fungal genera, respectively. Principal components analysis showed that 14 components were necessary to explain 90% of the variance in endophyte community structure in P. orientalis. In S. japonicum eight components were needed for 90%. It is against that backdrop of complex etiology in community structuring, that the relative frequencies (abundances) of 17 of the 24 endophytes from P. orientalis and 9 of the 16 from S. japonicum were significantly correlated with tree age. There were two major trends. Abundant fungal genera [Fusarium + Alternaria = 74.57% (P. orientalis) and 81.24% (S. japonicum)] tended to decline linearly with tree age. Most of the rare fungal genera, in contrast, increased in relative abundance linearly with tree age. Diversity (H′) and richness (Margalef) of endophyte communities in foliage thus increased as the trees aged. Relative abundances of pathogenic endophytes, or latent pathogens, (Pestalotiopsis funerea and Amyloporia subxantha in P. orientalis; Collectotrichum gloeosporioides and Botryosphaeria dothidea in S. japonicum) also increased linearly as the trees aged.Since leaf age does not vary with tree age in the deciduous S. japonicum, nor in the evergreen P. orientalis, ‘tree age’ currently lacks a mechanistic explanation for its apparent importance among common foliar endophytes.
Evidence of synergism among three genetic variants in a patient with LMNA-related lipodystrophy and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis leading to a remarkable nuclear phenotype
Authors: Volkening Kathryn , Farhan Sali M. K. , Kao Jessica , Leystra-Lantz Cheryl , Ang Lee Cyn , McIntyre Adam , Wang Jian , Hegele Robert A. , Strong Michael J. 
Published: March 2021

AbstractNeurodegenerative diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), can be clinically heterogeneous which may be explained by the co-inheritance of multiple genetic variants that modify the clinical course. In this study we examine variants in three genes in a family with one individual presenting with ALS and lipodystrophy. Sequencing revealed a p.Gly602Ser variant inLMNA, and two additional variants, one each inSETX(g.intron10-13delCTT) andFUS(p.Gly167_Gly168del). These latter genes have been linked to ALS. All family members were genotyped and each variant, and each combination of variants detected, were functionally evaluated in vitro regarding effects on cell survival, expression patterns and cellular phenotype. Muscle biopsy retrieved from the individual with ALS showed leakage of chromatin from the nucleus, a phenotype that was recapitulated in vitro with expression of all three variants simultaneously. Individually expressed variants gave cellular phenotypes there were unremarkable. Interestingly theFUSvariant appears to be protective against the effects of theSETXand theLMNAvariants on cell viability and may indicate loss of interaction of FUS with SETX and/or R-loops. We conclude that these findings support genetic modifications as an explanation of the clinical heterogeneity observed in human disease.
Is expressivism theologically acceptable?
Authors: Lambert St.John 
Published: March 2021

AbstractAs a matter of fact, few, if any, theists have been expressivists about morality. This is probably because expressivism is thought to have unacceptable theological implications. That is, it is thought to imply (1) that God’s goodness depends on our desire-like states, (2) that God’s goodness is not a real property, (3) that it is not true that God is good, and (4) that God’s moral thoughts have no explanation. I argue that expressivism has no such implications and conclude that expressivism is theologically acceptable.
Hilft viel viel? Der Einfluss von Studienstrukturen auf das Professionswissen angehender Physiklehrkräfte
Authors: Schiering Dustin , Sorge Stefan , Neumann Knut 
Published: March 2021

ZusammenfassungUniversitäre Lerngelegenheiten sind zentral für den Erwerb des Fachwissens (FW) und fachdidaktischen Wissens (FDW) angehender Lehrkräfte. Die Unterschiede in Umfang und Inhalt der Lerngelegenheiten zwischen den Hochschulen sind jedoch groß. Am Beispiel des Physik-Lehramtsstudiums werden in dieser Studie verschiedene Studienstrukturen und ihr Einfluss auf das FW und FDW angehender Lehrkräfte analysiert. Hierzu wurden Curricula von 20 deutschen Hochschulen für das Lehramt verglichen und Inhalt sowie Umfang ihrer fach- und fachdidaktischen Anteile in den ersten sechs Semestern identifiziert. Mit Blick auf die fachliche Ausbildung angehender Lehrkräfte zeigte sich, dass sie den Umfang der fachdidaktischen Ausbildung um etwa das Fünffache übersteigt. Zudem konnten vier Cluster identifiziert werden, die als prototypische Curricula mit geringem bzw. umfangreichen Fach- und Fachdidaktikanteil interpretiert werden können. Cluster mit umfangreichen Fachanteilen wirken sich dabei signifikant besser auf das FW aus. Zudem ist der Zusammenhang von FW und FDW abhängig von der Studienstruktur, so hängt das FDW von Probanden aus Studiengängen mit geringen Fachdidaktikanteilen stärker vom FW ab.
Advances in Deep Learning Methods for Visual Tracking: Literature Review and Fundamentals
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Qin , Jiang Run-Hua , Fan Chen-Xiang , Tong Tian-Yu , Wang Tao , Huang Peng-Cheng 
Published: March 2021

AbstractRecently, deep learning has achieved great success in visual tracking tasks, particularly in single-object tracking. This paper provides a comprehensive review of state-of-the-art single-object tracking algorithms based on deep learning. First, we introduce basic knowledge of deep visual tracking, including fundamental concepts, existing algorithms, and previous reviews. Second, we briefly review existing deep learning methods by categorizing them into data-invariant and data-adaptive methods based on whether they can dynamically change their model parameters or architectures. Then, we conclude with the general components of deep trackers. In this way, we systematically analyze the novelties of several recently proposed deep trackers. Thereafter, popular datasets such as Object Tracking Benchmark (OTB) and Visual Object Tracking (VOT) are discussed, along with the performances of several deep trackers. Finally, based on observations and experimental results, we discuss three different characteristics of deep trackers, i.e., the relationships between their general components, exploration of more effective tracking frameworks, and interpretability of their motion estimation components.
Point-cloud segmentation of individual trees in complex natural forest scenes based on a trunk-growth method
Authors: Liu Qianwei , Ma Weifeng , Zhang Jianpeng , Liu Yicheng , Xu Dongfan , Wang Jinliang 
Published: March 2021

AbstractForest resource management and ecological assessment have been recently supported by emerging technologies. Terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) is one that can be quickly and accurately used to obtain three-dimensional forest information, and create good representations of forest vertical structure. TLS data can be exploited for highly significant tasks, particularly the segmentation and information extraction for individual trees. However, the existing single-tree segmentation methods suffer from low segmentation accuracy and poor robustness, and hence do not lead to satisfactory results for natural forests in complex environments. In this paper, we propose a trunk-growth (TG) method for single-tree point-cloud segmentation, and apply this method to the natural forest scenes of Shangri-La City in Northwest Yunnan, China. First, the point normal vector and its Z-axis component are used as trunk-growth constraints. Then, the points surrounding the trunk are searched to account for regrowth. Finally, the nearest distributed branch and leaf points are used to complete the individual tree segmentation. The results show that the TG method can effectively segment individual trees with an averageF-score of 0.96. The proposed method applies to many types of trees with various growth shapes, and can effectively identify shrubs and herbs in complex scenes of natural forests. The promising outcomes of the TG method demonstrate the key advantages of combining plant morphology theory and LiDAR technology for advancing and optimizing forestry systems.
Assessment of Urinary Lead (Pb) and Essential Trace Elements in Autism Spectrum Disorder: a Case-Control Study Among Preschool Children in Malaysia
Authors: Abd Wahil Mohd Shahrol , Ja’afar Mohd Hasni , Md Isa Zaleha 
Published: March 2021

AbstractLead (Pb) is a heavy metal which is abundant in the environment and known to cause neurotoxicity in children even at minute concentration. However, the trace elements calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe) are essential to children due to its protective effect on neurodevelopment. The primary objective of this study was to assess the role of Pb and trace elements in the development of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) among preschool children. A total of 81 ASD children and 74 typically developed (TD) children aged between 3 and 6 years participated in the study. Self-administered online questionnaires were completed by the parents. A first-morning urine sample was collected in a sterile polyethene urine container and assayed for Pb, Ca, Mg, Zn and Fe using an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Comparisons between groups revealed that the urinary Pb, Mg, Zn and Fe levels in ASD children were significantly lower than TD children. The odds of ASD reduced significantly by 5.0% and 23.0% with an increment of every 1.0 μg/dL urinary Zn and Fe, respectively. Post interaction analysis showed that the odds of ASD reduced significantly by 11.0% and 0.1% with an increment of every 1.0 μg/dL urinary Zn and Pb, respectively. A significantly lower urinary Pb level in ASD children than TD children may be due to their poor detoxifying mechanism. Also, the significantly lower urinary Zn and Fe levels in ASD children may augment the neurotoxic effect of Pb.
Specific Susceptibility to COVID-19 in Adults with Down Syndrome
Authors: Illouz Tomer , Biragyn Arya , Frenkel-Morgenstern Milana , Weissberg Orly , Gorohovski Alessandro , Merzon Eugene , Green Ilan , Iulita Florencia , Flores-Aguilar Lisi , Dierssen Mara , De Toma Ilario , Lifshitz Hefziba , Antonarakis Stylianos E. , Yu Eugene , Herault Yann , Potier Marie-Claude , Botté Alexandra , Roper Randall , Sredni Benjamin , Sarid Ronit , London Jacqueline , Mobley William , Strydom Andre , Okun Eitan 
Published: March 2021

AbstractThe current SARS-CoV-2 outbreak, which causes COVID-19, is particularly devastating for individuals with chronic medical conditions, in particular those with Down Syndrome (DS) who often exhibit a higher prevalence of respiratory tract infections, immune dysregulation and potential complications. The incidence of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is much higher in DS than in the general population, possibly increasing further the risk of COVID-19 infection and its complications. Here we provide a biological overview with regard to specific susceptibility of individuals with DS to SARS-CoV-2 infection as well as data from a recent survey on the prevalence of COVID-19 among them. We see an urgent need to protect people with DS, especially those with AD, from COVID-19 and future pandemics and focus on developing protective measures, which also include interventions by health systems worldwide for reducing the negative social effects of long-term isolation and increased periods of hospitalization.
Young Children’s Belonging in Finnish Educational Settings: an Intersectional Analysis
Authors: Puroila Anna-Maija , Juutinen Jaana , Viljamaa Elina , Sirkko Riikka , Kyrönlampi Taina , Takala Marjatta 
Published: March 2021

AbstractThe study draws on a relational and intersectional approach to young children’s belonging in Finnish educational settings. Belonging is conceptualized as a multilevel, dynamic, and relationally constructed phenomenon. The aim of the study is to explore how children’s belonging is shaped in the intersections between macro-, meso-, and micro-levels of young children’s education in Finland. The data consist of educational policy documents and ethnographic material generated in educational programs for children aged birth to 8 years. A situational mapping framework is used to analyze and interpret the data across and within systems levels (macro-level; meso-level; and micro-level). The findings show that the landscape in which children’s belonging is shaped and the intersections across and within the levels are characterized by the tensions between similarities and differences, majority and minorities, continuity and change, authority and agency. Language used, practices enacted, and positional power emerge as the (re)sources through which children’s (un)belonging is actively produced.
Mitochondrial impairments in aetiopathology of multifactorial diseases: common origin but individual outcomes in context of 3P medicine
Authors: Koklesova Lenka , Samec Marek , Liskova Alena , Zhai Kevin , Büsselberg Dietrich , Giordano Frank A. , Kubatka Peter , Golunitschaja Olga 
Published: March 2021

AbstractMitochondrial injury plays a key role in the aetiopathology of multifactorial diseases exhibiting a “vicious circle” characteristic for pathomechanisms of the mitochondrial and multi-organ damage frequently developed in a reciprocal manner. Although the origin of the damage is common (uncontrolled ROS release, diminished energy production and extensive oxidative stress to life-important biomolecules such as mtDNA and chrDNA), individual outcomes differ significantly representing a spectrum of associated pathologies including but not restricted to neurodegeneration, cardiovascular diseases and cancers. Contextually, the role of predictive, preventive and personalised (PPPM/3P) medicine is to introduce predictive analytical approaches which allow for distinguishing between individual outcomes under circumstance of mitochondrial impairments followed by cost-effective targeted prevention and personalisation of medical services. Current article considers innovative concepts and analytical instruments to advance management of mitochondriopathies and associated pathologies.
Biofilm on the polymer composites - qualitative and quantitative microbiological analysis
Authors: Ginter-Kramarczyk Dobrochna , Kruszelnicka Izabela , Michałkiewicz Michał , Muszyński Przemysław , Zajchowski Stanisław , Tomaszewska Jolanta 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background
Modern technology, which has been getting more and more recognition in the world for the last several years, is the moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) technology. Currently, movable biofilters made of basic polymeric materials, polyethylene and polypropylene.

Methods
An innovative solution in the field, mainly because of the large active surface area for biological membrane can be wood polymer composites (WPC). In the research polypropylene (PP) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) was used as the matrix. Two types of commercial wood flour also, selected from conifers, were selected for the study: Lignocel C 120 with particle sizes in the range of 70 μm–150 μm and L9 with dimensions of 0.8–1.1 mm and wood chips, which are used on an industrial scale for the production of chipboards, were used as a filler. A quantitative and qualitative analysis of newly formed biofilms was performed.

Results
The study showed a direct effect of the filler and its particle size on the susceptibility to the formation of the biofilm of on the composites surface.

Conclusions
Polypropylene PPH 648 T and 40% wt. of L9 type wood flour was the most susceptible to biofilm formation. Pure polypropylene PPH 648 T was the least susceptible material.
A medical decision support system for predicting the severity level of COVID-19
Authors: Abbaspour Onari Mohsen , Yousefi Samuel , Rabieepour Masome , Alizadeh Azra , Jahangoshai Rezaee Mustafa 
Published: March 2021

AbstractThe main assay tool of COVID-19, as a pandemic, still has significant faults. To ameliorate the current situation, all facilities and tools in this realm should be implemented to encounter this epidemic. The current study has endeavored to propose a self-assessment decision support system (DSS) for distinguishing the severity of the COVID-19 between confirmed cases to optimize the patient care process. For this purpose, a DSS has been developed by the combination of the data-driven Bayesian network (BN) and the Fuzzy Cognitive Map (FCM). First, all of the data are utilized to extract the evidence-based paired (EBP) relationships between symptoms and symptoms’ impact probability. Then, the results are evaluated in both independent and combined scenarios. After categorizing data in the triple severity levels by self-organizing map, the EBP relationships between symptoms are extracted by BN, and their significance is achieved and ranked by FCM. The results show that the most common symptoms necessarily do not have the key role in distinguishing the severity of the COVID-19, and extracting the EBP relationships could have better insight into the severity of the disease.