bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Front Cover: Differentiating smokers and nonsmokers based on Raman spectroscopy of oral fluid and advanced statistics for forensic applications (J. Biophotonics 3/2020)
Authors: Al‐Hetlani Entesar , Halámková Lenka , Amin Mohamed O. , Lednev Igor K.
Published: March 2020

Raman spectroscopy was employed as a nondestructive technique for the analysis of dry traces of oral fluid to differentiate between smoker and nonsmoker donors with the aid of advanced statistical tools. A genetic algorithm (GA) was used to determine eight spectral regions that contribute the most to the differentiation of smokers and nonsmokers. Thereafter, a classification model was developed based on the artificial neural network (ANN) that showed 100% accuracy after external validation. (Image ©: Dr. Aliaksandra Sikirzhytskaya).

Further details can be found in the article by Entesar Al‐Hetlani, Lenka Halamkova, Mohamed O. Amin, and Igor K. Lednev (e201960123).

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Editorial for “Tissue Characterization by Mapping and Strain Cardiac MRI to Evaluate Myocardial Inflammation in Fulminant Myocarditis”
Authors: Ibrahim El‐Sayed H.
Published: March 2020

Level of Evidence

5

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;52:939–940.
A simple method for rapid calibration of faraday and ion‐counting detectors on movable multicollector mass spectrometers
Authors: Davis Donald W.
Published: March 2020

Methods are presented for rapid determination of relative efficiencies of Faraday cups in a multicollector array with movable cups and of Daly or electron multiplier detector dead time and gain values. The Faraday calibration approach is based on measuring the same isotopic ratio in two sequences with different collector configurations having one collector in common. Changes in thermal fractionation during the two measurement sequences are monitored using the same two collectors. Since the relative efficiencies are determined by measuring the same ratio in different cups corrected for time‐dependent changes in fractionation, it is unnecessary to use a standard of known composition and calculations are simple, not requiring the solution of multiple equations. Determination of dead time and gain values for a Daly detector are shown based on multidynamic measurements of masses 207, 206, and 208 from Pb standard SRM982 in two sequences consisting of L1‐Daly‐H1 and Daly‐H1‐H2. This provides two equations that can be solved for Daly dead time and gain. This method uses static measurements and is therefore insensitive to signal instability. It also does not require use of a standard of known isotopic composition. The potential of using known cup efficiencies to help determine absolute isotopic abundances is discussed.
Growth properties for generalized Riesz potentials of functions satisfying Orlicz conditions
Authors: Mizuta Yoshihiro , Ohno Takao , Shimomura Tetsu , Yamauchi Yusuke
Published: March 2020

Riesz decomposition theorem says that superharmonic functions on the punctured unit ball are represented as the sum of generalized (Newtonian) potentials and harmonic functions. In this paper we study growth properties near the origin of spherical means for generalized Riesz potentials of functions satisfying Orlicz conditions in the punctured unit ball.
Optimal classification, exact solutions, and wave interactions of Euler system with large friction
Authors: Sahoo Sueet Millon , Raja Sekhar T. , Raja Sekhar G. P.
Published: March 2020

We derive exact solutions of one‐dimensional Euler system that accounts for gravity together with large friction. Certain optimal classes of subalgebra using Lie symmetry analysis are obtained for this system. We apply the reduction procedure to reduce the Euler system to a system of ordinary differential equations in terms of new similarity variable for each class of subalgebras leading to invariant solutions. The evolution of characteristic shock and its interaction with the weak discontinuity by using one of the invariant solutions is studied. Further, the properties of reflected and transmitted waves and jump in acceleration influenced by the incident wave have been characterized.
Fractional p‐Laplacian problem with indefinite weight in RN: Eigenvalues and existence
Authors: Cui Na , Sun Hong‐Rui
Published: March 2020

In this paper, we first study the fractional
‐Laplacian eigenvalue problem with indefinite weight

and prove that the problem exists a sequence of eigenvalues that converges to infinity and that the first eigenvalue is simple. Based on these results, we then consider the existence of infinitely many solutions for a class of indefinite weight problem with concave and convex nonlinearities.
Coupling modeling and bandpass filter design using electric and magnetic couplings on CMOS 65 nm technology
Authors: Mou Jin‐Chao , Wu Di‐Si , Li Yuan Chun
Published: March 2020

This letter presents the electric and magnetic couplings modeling on CMOS 65 nm technology. It is based on the simplified equivalent substrate model. The field distribution is studied to analyze qualitatively the electric and magnetic couplings. Based on CMOS 65 nm technology, the coupling coefficients with and without passivation are calculated quantitatively for comparisons and then the coupling characteristics are summarized. In order to demonstrate the coupling model, a bandpass filter using electric and magnetic couplings is designed. The measured bandwidth is 23 GHz centered at 63.5 GHz and the insertion loss is 3.8 dB. Good agreement between the simulated and measured results validates the coupling modeling.
Meshless hybrid implicit‐explicit radial point interpolation method in scattering of dielectric particles by light beam with orbital angular momentum
Authors: Yu Zhong , Wang Yijing , Xie Yongbin
Published: March 2020

This letter proposes a meshless hybrid implicit‐explicit radial point interpolation method (HIE‐RPIM) to simulate the scattering of the Laguerre‐Gaussian beam with orbital angular momentum (OAM) by dielectric particles. The results are verified by comparison with the finite‐difference time domain (FDTD) and the radial point interpolation method (RPIM) which shows that the HIE‐RPIM agrees well with the FDTD, and the HIE‐RPIM is about 4.9 times faster than the FDTD method and about 4.2 times faster than the RPIM. Moreover, the scattering angle of forward scattering intensity maximum is about 10° to 35° when the OAM modes are L = 1 and 2 and moves back by 5° to 15° from L = 1 to 2. The HIE‐RPIM has potential to research the scattering properties of OAM beam.
Outcome Measures in Critical Care Nutrition Interventional Trials: A Systematic Review
Authors: Chapple Lee‐anne S. , Summers Matthew J. , Weinel Luke M. , Deane Adam M.
Published: March 2020

Historically, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in critical care have used mortality as the primary outcome, yet most show no effect on this outcome. Therefore, there has been a shift in the literature to focus on alternative outcomes. This review aimed to describe primary outcomes selected in RCTs of nutrition interventions in critical illness. Systematic search of the literature identified RCTs of nutrition interventions in critically ill adults published between January 2007 and December 2018. Primary outcomes were documented and categorized as mortality, morbidity, health service/cost‐effectiveness, or nutrition outcome. The direction of effect of the intervention on the primary outcome (positive, neutral, or negative) was extracted. Of 1163 citations identified and assessed for eligibility, 125 articles were included. However, 52 articles (42%) did not provide a sample‐size calculation, leaving 73 articles (58%) for data extraction. The primary outcomes reported were morbidity (n = 24, 32.9%); health service/cost‐effectiveness (n = 21, 28.8%); nutrition outcomes (n = 16, 21.9%); mortality (n = 11, 15.1%); and other (n = 1, 1.4%). No RCTs with mortality as the primary outcome reported a difference between intervention and control. Trials that included other primary outcomes frequently reported a difference (n = 27 of 62; 43.5%). Morbidity was the most frequently reported outcome category in RCTs that evaluated a nutrition intervention in critically ill adults, with mortality least frequent. Power calculations were only reported in 58% of included studies. Trials were more likely to show a significant result when an outcome other than mortality was the primary outcome.
Characterization of Continuous‐Wave Laser Heating Ignition of Ammonium Dinitramide‐Based Ionic Liquids with Carbon Fibers
Authors: Itouyama Noboru , Matsunaga Hiroki , Habu Hiroto
Published: March 2020

Ammonium dinitramide–based energetic ionic liquid propellants (ADN‐EILPs) exhibit the advantages of high energy density, low toxicity, and handling safety, and are therefore promising monopropellants. Herein, we characterized the ignition of ADN‐EILPs induced by CW laser heating in the presence of carbon fibers, clarifying the effect of laser power and suggesting that ignition reproducibility is influenced by the difference of ADN‐EILP osmotic state in carbon fibers or carbon fiber configuration. The observed ignition behavior allowed one to conclude that (i) high‐power CW laser heating causes the formation of bubbles on the surface, which disturbs further heating; and (ii) an Arrhenius‐type relationship exists between ignition delay and heating rate, suggesting that the strategy of foreshortening ADN‐EILP ignition delay by increasing CW laser power has certain limits.
Mechanisms of negative membrane curvature sensing and generation by ESCRT III subunit Snf7
Authors: Nepal Binod , Sepehri Aliasghar , Lazaridis Themis
Published: March 2020

Certain proteins have the propensity to bind to negatively curved membranes and generate negative membrane curvature. The mechanism of action of these proteins is much less studied and understood than those that sense and generate positive curvature. In this work, we use implicit membrane modeling to explore the mechanism of an important negative curvature sensing and generating protein: the main ESCRT III subunit Snf7. We find that Snf7 monomers alone can sense negative curvature and that curvature sensitivity increases for dimers and trimers. We have observed spontaneous bending of Snf7 oligomers into circular structures with preferred radius of ~20 nm. The preferred curvature of Snf7 filaments is further confirmed by the simulations of preformed spirals on a cylindrical membrane surface. Snf7 filaments cannot bind with the same interface to flat and curved membranes. We find that even when a filament has the preferred radius, it is always less stable on the flat membrane surface than on the interior cylindrical membrane surface. This provides an additional energy for membrane bending which has not been considered in the spiral spring model. Furthermore, the rings on the cylindrical spirals are bridged together by helix 4 and hence are extra stabilized compared to the spirals on the flat membrane surface.
Nonfragile H∞ filtering for discrete multirate time‐delayed systems over sensor networks characterized by Gilbert‐Elliott models
Authors: Shen Yuxuan , Wang Zidong , Shen Bo , Alsaadi Fuad E.
Published: March 2020

In this article, the nonfragile H∞ filtering problem is investigated for a class of discrete multirate time‐delayed systems over sensor networks. The probabilistic packet dropout occurs during the information transmissions among the sensor nodes in the sensor network characterized by the Gilbert‐Elliott model. In order to take the multirate sampling into account, the state updating period of the system and the sampling period of the sensors are allowed to be different. The variation of the filter gain is considered to reflect the physical errors with the filter implementation. The aim of this article is to design a set of nonfragile filters such that, in the presence of multirate sampling, time‐delays, and packet dropouts, the filtering error dynamics is exponentially mean‐square stable and also satisfies the H∞ performance requirement. By using the Lyapunov‐Krasovskii functional approach, a sufficient condition is derived, which ensures the exponential mean‐square stability and the H∞ performance requirement of the filtering error dynamics. Then, the filter gains are characterized in terms of the solution to a set of matrix inequalities. Finally, a simulation example is provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed filtering scheme.
Output feedback tracking control for lower‐triangular nonlinear time‐delay systems with asymmetric input saturation
Authors: Liu Qingrong , Li Hanfeng , Zhang Xianfu
Published: March 2020

In this paper, the problem of output feedback tracking control is investigated for lower‐triangular nonlinear time‐delay systems in the presence of asymmetric input saturation. A novel design program based on a dynamic high gain design approach is proposed to construct an output feedback tracking controller. The innovation here is that the problem of constructing tracking controller can be transformed into the problem of constructing two dynamic equations, with one being utilized to deal with the nonlinear terms and the other one being applied to analyze the influence of asymmetric input saturation. It is proved by an appropriate Lyapunov‐Krasovskii functional that the proposed tracking controller subject to saturation can ensure that all the signals of the closed‐loop system are globally bounded and the tracking error is prescribed sufficiently small when time is long enough. A practical example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Genome-edited adult stem cells: Next-generation advanced therapy medicinal products
Authors: Benabdellah Karim , Sánchez-Hernández Sabina , Aguilar-González Araceli , Maldonado-Pérez Noelia , Gutierrez-Guerrero Alejandra , Cortijo-Gutierrez Marina , Ramos-Hernández Iris , Tristán-Manzano María , Galindo-Moreno Pablo , Herrera Concha , Martin Francisco
Published: March 2020

Over recent decades, gene therapy, which has enabled the treatment of several incurable diseases, has undergone a veritable revolution. Cell therapy has also seen major advances in the treatment of various diseases, particularly through the use of adult stem cells (ASCs). The combination of gene and cell therapy (GCT) has opened up new opportunities to improve advanced therapy medicinal products for the treatment of several diseases. Despite the considerable potential of GCT, the use of retroviral vectors has major limitations with regard to oncogene transactivation and the lack of physiological expression. Recently, gene therapists have focused on genome editing (GE) technologies as an alternative strategy. In this review, we discuss the potential benefits of using GE technologies to improve GCT approaches based on ASCs. We will begin with a brief summary of different GE platforms and techniques and will then focus on key therapeutic approaches that have been successfully used to treat diseases in animal models. Finally, we discuss whether ASC GE could become a real alternative to retroviral vectors in a GCT setting.

Significance statement Recent advances in adult stem cells and genome editing techniques have enabled scientists to envisage the generation of efficient and safe advanced therapy medicinal products for the treatment of untreatable diseases. Hematopoietic progenitor stem cells are now clearly regarded as the cell type of reference. Promising results have been achieved in controlling AIDS and hemoglobinopathies, resulting in several clinical trials. Promising results have also been obtained in the treatment of monogenic diseases, including X-SCID, SCID-ADA, X-CGD, and Fanconi anemia, indicating that further clinical trials will be approved in the near future.
Controlled Individual Skyrmion Nucleation at Artificial Defects Formed by Ion Irradiation
Authors: Fallon Kayla , Hughes Sean , Zeissler Katharina , Legrand William , Ajejas Fernando , Maccariello Davide , McFadzean Samuel , Smith William , McGrouther Damien , Collin Sophie , Reyren Nicolas , Cros Vincent , Marrows Christopher H. , McVitie Stephen
Published: March 2020

Magnetic skyrmions are particle‐like deformations in a magnetic texture. They have great potential as information carriers in spintronic devices because of their interesting topological properties and favorable motion under spin currents. A new method of nucleating skyrmions at nanoscale defect sites, created in a controlled manner with focused ion beam irradiation, in polycrystalline magnetic multilayer samples with an interfacial Dzyaloshinskii–Moriya interaction, is reported. This new method has three notable advantages: 1) localization of nucleation; 2) stability over a larger range of external field strengths, including stability at zero field; and 3) existence of skyrmions in material systems where, prior to defect fabrication, skyrmions were not previously obtained by field cycling. Additionally, it is observed that the size of defect nucleated skyrmions is uninfluenced by the defect itself—provided that the artificial defects are controlled to be smaller than the inherent skyrmion size. All of these characteristics are expected to be useful toward the goal of realizing a skyrmion‐based spintronic device. This phenomenon is studied with a range of transmission electron microscopy techniques to probe quantitatively the magnetic behavior at the defects with applied field and correlate this with the structural impact of the defects.
Expression profiles of the MXD3 gene and association of sequence variants with growth traits in Xianan and Qinchuan cattle
Authors: Hao Dan , Thomsen Bo , Bai Jiangsong , Peng Shujun , Lan Xianyong , Huang Yongzhen , Wang Xiao , Chen Hong
Published: March 2020

Max dimerization protein 3 (MXD3) belongs to the MYC superfamily of basic helix‐loop‐helix leucine zipper transcription factors, and MXD3‐MAX heterodimers can bind to promoters of target genes to modulate their expression. The aim of this study was to determine the MXD3 mRNA expression levels in various cattle tissues comprising heart, liver, spleen, lung, kidney, Longissimus dorsi muscle and subcutaneous fat in Chinese Qinchuan and Xianan cattle breeds. The RT‐qPCR data showed that the MXD3 gene was variably expressed between all tissues and at levels that were significantly different between two breeds (p < .05). We used the polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) method to investigate the possible association between single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) within the MXD3 gene and five different growth traits in cattle. We found two intronic SNPs (g.2694 C>T and g.3801 T>C) and one SNP in 3′untranslated region (3′UTR) (g.6263 G>A) of MXD3 gene. Association analysis revealed strong associations between pairwise and triple SNP combinations and the growth traits. Based on these results, we suggest that MXD3 polymorphisms could be useful as molecular markers in the Chinese beef cattle breeding program.
Twisted $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 1 SCFTs and their AdS3 duals
Authors: Couzens Christopher , het Lam Huibert , Mayer Kilian
Published: March 2020

Abstract

We study compactifications of an infinite family of four-dimensional $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 SCFTs on a Riemann surface in the presence of arbitrary background fluxes for global symmetries. The four-dimensional parent theories have holographic Sasaki-Einstein duals in type IIB string theory. We compute central charges and R-charges of baryonic operators in the resulting two-dimensional $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= (0, 2) theories in three distinct ways: from the field theory side utilizing c-extremization, its recently discovered geometric dual formulation, and holographically using new AdS3 duals of two-dimensional field theories.
IR dynamics from UV divergences: UV/IR mixing, NCFT, and the hierarchy problem
Authors: Craig Nathaniel , Koren Seth
Published: March 2020

Abstract

The persistence of the hierarchy problem points to a violation of effective field theory expectations. A compelling possibility is that this results from a physical breakdown of EFT, which may arise from correlations between ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) physics. To this end, we study noncommutative field theory (NCFT) as a toy model of UV/IR mixing which generates an emergent infrared scale from ultraviolet dynamics. We explore the range of such theories where ultraviolet divergences are transmogrified into infrared scales, focusing particularly on the properties of Yukawa theory, where we identify a new infrared pole accessible in the s-channel of the Lorentzian theory. We further investigate the interplay between UV-finiteness and UV/IR mixing by studying properties of the softly-broken noncommutative Wess-Zumino model as soft terms are varied relative to the cutoff. While the Lorentz violation inherent to noncommutative theories may limit their direct application to the hierarchy problem, these toy models provide general lessons to guide the realization of UV/IR mixing in more realistic theories.
Post-metamorphic carry-over effects of altered thyroid hormone level and developmental temperature: physiological plasticity and body condition at two life stages in Rana temporaria
Authors: Ruthsatz Katharina , Dausmann Kathrin H. , Reinhardt Steffen , Robinson Tom , Sabatino Nikita M. , Peck Myron A. , Glos Julian
Published: March 2020

Environmental stress induced by natural and anthropogenic processes including climate change may threaten the productivity of species and persistence of populations. Ectotherms can potentially cope with stressful conditions such as extremes in temperature by exhibiting physiological plasticity. Amphibian larvae experiencing stressful environments display altered thyroid hormone (TH) status with potential implications for physiological traits and acclimation capacity. We investigated how developmental temperature (Tdev) and altered TH levels (simulating proximate effects of environmental stress) influence the standard metabolic rate (SMR), body condition (BC), and thermal tolerance in metamorphic and post-metamorphic anuran larvae of the common frog (Rana temporaria) reared at five constant temperatures (14–28 °C). At metamorphosis, larvae that developed at higher temperatures had higher maximum thermal limits but narrower ranges in thermal tolerance. Mean CTmaxwas 37.63 °C ± 0.14 (low TH), 36.49 °C ± 0.31 (control), and 36.43 °C ± 0.68 (high TH) in larvae acclimated to different temperatures. Larvae were able to acclimate to higherTdevby adjusting their thermal tolerance, but not their SMR, and this effect was not impaired by altered TH levels. BC was reduced by 80% (metamorphic) and by 85% (post-metamorphic) at highestTdev. The effect of stressful larval conditions (i.e., different developmental temperatures and, to some extent, altered TH levels) on SMR and particularly on BC at the onset of metamorphosis was carried over to froglets at the end of metamorphic climax. This has far reaching consequences, since body condition at metamorphosis is known to determine metamorphic success and, thus, is indirectly linked to individual fitness in later life stages.
Does the use of health technology assessment have an impact on the utilisation of health care resources? Evidence from two European countries
Authors: Corbacho B. , Drummond M. , Santos R. , Jones E. , Borràs J. M. , Mestre-Ferrandiz J. , Espín J. , Henry N. , Prat A.
Published: March 2020

Objectives

A centralised approach to health technology assessment (HTA) may facilitate optimal use of HTA resources. A regional approach may increase the chances of local implementation of recommendations. This study aimed to compare assessment procedures in England (centralised HTA approach) with Spain (regional HTA approach) discussing key challenges and opportunities from both approaches.

Methods

We compared technology assessments of anticancer medicines in the two jurisdictions from 2008 to 2015. To assess the implementation of HTA recommendations, we assessed trends in medicine usage using regression methods. We used IQVIA data, from 2011 to 2016, for a sample of 11 medicines. We used CatSalut data from Catalonia to assess the implementation of local recommendations.

Results

In England, 66 assessments were undertaken by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), using a standardised methodology. In Spain, there were 79 reports undertaken by a range of bodies using a shared process and coordinated through the GENESIS collaboration; the assessment methods used varied substantially. Overall, the recommendations in the two jurisdictions were similar. Regression analyses indicate that where there is a positive recommendation by HTA bodies, the usage of the medicine responds most strongly (p < 0.001) in Catalonia (4.892), followed by England (3.120) and Spain (1.693).

Conclusions

This study suggests that medicine utilisation does respond to the positive recommendations of HTA bodies. However, if HTA capacity is organised primarily regionally, considerable effort may be required in coordination, to ensure consistent and rigorous assessments and adequate implementation of HTA findings.
New developments in the management of achondroplasia
Authors: Högler Wolfgang , Ward Leanne M.
Published: March 2020

Achondroplasia is the most common form of disproportionate short stature. A dominantly inherited FGFR3 mutation permanently activates the fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3) and its downstream mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling pathway. This inhibits chondrocyte differentiation and puts a break on growth plate function, in addition to causing serious medical complications such as foramen magnum and spinal stenosis and upper airway narrowing. A great deal has been learned about complications and consequences of FGFR3 activation and management guidance is evolving aimed to reduce the increased mortality and morbidity in this condition, particularly deaths from spinal cord compression and sleep apnoea in infants and small children. To date, no drugs are licensed for treatment of achondroplasia. Here, we report on the various substances in the drug development pipeline which target elements in molecular disease mechanism such as FGF (fibroblast growth factor) ligands, FGFR3, MAPK signalling as well as the C‑type natriuretic peptide receptor NPR‑B (natriuretic peptide receptor B).
Self-help Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Carers of People with Multiple Sclerosis: A Feasibility Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Potter Kristy-Jane , Golijana-Moghaddam Nima , Evangelou Nikos , Mhizha-Murira Jacqueline R. , das Nair Roshan
Published: March 2020

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an established psychological therapy, but its effectiveness for carers of people with multiple sclerosis (MS) experiencing carer-related strain has not been established. This study assessed the acceptability and feasibility of conducting a randomised controlled trial comparing ACT self-help, telephone-supported ACT self-help, and usual care. We describe a mixed-method, parallel three-armed feasibility randomised controlled trial. Participants were carers (i.e. caregivers) of people with MS. The self-help group received an ACT self-help text (covered over 8 weeks), the enhanced self-help group additionally received weekly telephone support. All participants completed questionnaires at baseline, 3-month, and 6-month post-randomisation, assessing carer strain, health-related quality of life, and ACT-related processes. A sample of participants was also interviewed. Twenty-four carers were randomised. Participants found the study procedures to be acceptable, but highlighted difficulties with the self-help text and timing of the intervention. An exploratory, group-level analysis indicated effectiveness for the enhanced self-help group on carer strain (consistent across both follow-ups), with convergent qualitative reports to support this. A full trial of ACT-based, telephone-supported self-help is warranted, including both the self-help and enhanced self-help design, following significant adaptions to the self-help itself. An internal pilot would, therefore, be recommended to further assess the feasibility after changes are incorporated.

Trial registration: The trial was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03077971).
Pesticide contamination of the upper Elbe River and an adjacent floodplain area
Authors: Karlsson Anneli S. , Lesch Michael , Weihermüller Lutz , Thiele Björn , Disko Ulrich , Hofmann Diana , Vereecken Harry , Spielvogel Sandra
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Pesticide contamination of river waters is a global problem, and therefore, authorities regularly monitor the water quality status. Especially, flood events might transport large pesticide loads downstream and impact adjacent areas such as sensible floodplain environments by deposing particle bound pesticides or by contaminating the environments by dissolved substances directly. Unfortunately, only little attempts were made to quantify the pesticide pollution of such environments, as the monitoring of soil and sediment contamination is by far more time consuming and complicated compared to the analysis of water samples.

Materials and methods

In the study presented, we therefore used a holistic approach starting with the reconstruction of the inundation characteristics of a floodplain located in the upper part of the river Elbe, Germany, by using nearby gauging data, screened databases for pesticide concentrations and calculated pesticide loads, and finally, sampled the floodplain soils along an elevation (inundation) gradient.

Results

As expected, the reconstructed inundation characteristics showed that the low-lying areas of the backwater inflow of the floodplain were flooded more frequently compared to the areas at higher elevation, whereby even the highest elevations sampled were at least flooded during each decade. Furthermore, pesticide concentrations of the river waters and calculated pesticide loads revealed that 13 pesticides can be found regularly, whereby atrazine, terbuthylazine, metazachlor, metolachlor, isoproturon, and chlorotoluron are the main contaminants.

Conclusion

Concluding, a spatial pattern in the contamination could be detected. High residues of simazine and ethofumesate were associated with areas of less and more frequent inundations, respectively. The transformation products of atrazine and terbuthylazine (2-hydroxy-atrazine and 2-hydroxy-terbuthylazine) were detected, whereby the quantity could be well explained by the inundation characteristics and pesticide loads of the river water.
Self-selection and socialisation effects of business and legal studies
Authors: Rosengart Tim , Hirsch Bernhard , Nitzl Christian
Published: March 2020

To explore the effect of business and legal studies on the resolution of trade-offs between efficiency considerations and fairness concerns, we distributed a survey with three decision cases to freshman and senior business and law students. Our results show that business students, in direct comparison with subjects who study law, make decisions more in accordance with economic theory. Studying business administration leads to decisions that are based more on efficiency criteria, while legal education appears to lead individuals making decisions that are more based on social criteria. Our findings reveal the impact of self-selection and socialization effects on decision making. For business ethics education, this result matters because moral decision making can be influenced during studies.
Thermoelectric Generators for Automotive Applications: Holistic Optimization and Validation by a Functional Prototype
Authors: Kober Martin , Knobelspies Timo , Rossello Aina , Heber Lars
Published: March 2020

Current research has led to a significant improvement at the system level of thermoelectric generators (TEG) for automotive applications. The previously low power density could be increased considerably up to 267 W/kg and 478 W/dm3. In addition, the cost–benefit ratio of the technology in the overall system of the vehicle was improved through intensive optimizations on system level. The results presented so far are based on measurement data of single thermoelectric modules (TEM) and simulation of the TEG system. In this paper the high simulative increases at the system level, achieved through a holistic optimization method, are validated by a functional prototype, completely equipped with TEM. Thereby, a functional prototype has been developed and built successfully and measured on a hot gas test bench. In the experiment all TEM show a stable power output and the highest gravimetric power density of automotive TEG systems known to the authors could be measured. Further tests will be performed with the functional prototype as described in the outlook. In addition to the successful tests, the simulation is validated with the detailed measurement data. After adapting the measurement method of the TEM for providing more accurate TEM measurement data as input for the simulation, a suitable match could be achieved between the TEG simulation and the experiment. In the measurement points performed so far, the accuracy of the simulated temperatures reaches more than 95%. The accuracy of the simulated output power is more than 97%.
Value-Based Healthcare and Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Implementation in a High-Volume Bariatric Center in Italy
Authors: Goretti Giulia , Marinari Giuseppe M. , Vanni Elena , Ferrari Chiara
Published: March 2020

Background

Bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment for patients affected by morbid obesity. The Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol increases clinical outcomes, but the most recent literature shows incomplete patients’ adherence. This study aims to demonstrate the feasibility of applying a Value-Based Healthcare (VBHC) strategy associated with ERAS to increase patients’ engagement and outcomes.

Method

A multiprofessional team redesigned the process considering ERAS recommendations and patients’ feedbacks. Outcomes that matter to patients were defined with structured patients’ interviews and collected in the electronic clinical record. Adherence to the pathway and the cost of the cycle of care were measured to demonstrate sustainability. A model was developed to grant its replicability.

Results

A total of 2.122 patients were included. The lowest adherence to the protocol for a single item was 82%. 74% of excess weight loss; 90% better comorbidities control; 77.5% had no pain after surgery; 61% no postoperative nausea and vomiting. Zero mortality; 1.8% overall morbidity; 0.4% readmission and reoperation rate within 30 days. The average length of stay is 2.1 days. Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) documented increased productivity and quality of life.

Conclusion

Building a caring relationship by a multidisciplinary team, adding patient wellness in a VBHC framework on top of ERAS as a patient-centered approach, increases patients’ engagement and adherence to the pathway of care, resulting in better health outcomes (clinical and PROMs). The Value-Based Model is sustainable and replicable; it represents the prototype for redesigning other pathways and may become a model for other organizations.
Fabrication of SS316L to Ni80Cr20 graded structures by 3D plasma metal deposition
Authors: Hoefer K. , Rodriguez J. , Haelsig A. , Abstoss K.-G. , Mayr P.
Published: March 2020

Powder metallurgy and thermal spraying has been used traditionally to manufacture functionally graded materials (FGMs). However, only simple geometries can be made with these processes and the compositional gradients cannot be tailored. These disadvantages can be overcome by employing additive manufacturing (AM). 3D plasma metal deposition (3DPMD) is a new technique that combines the advantages of plasma powder and additive processes. This process allows the production of structures with mixtures of different materials and powder fraction targeting changes in local properties and microstructures. For example, up to four powders, which can be different in terms of chemistry and powder fraction, can be mixed within one layer to adapt the local properties of the structure. The feasibility of functionally graded structures of stainless steel 316L (SS316L) and Ni80-20 alloy was studied. Two configurations, transition between the steel and the Ni-based alloy, were tested. The first one is hard transition, SS316L on the bottom and Ni80-20 on the top. The second one, a smooth transition between both materials was created with 50% of steel and 50% of Ni-based alloy. Optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were used to characterize the microstructures. The manufactured part showed good appearance, without any external defects and acceptable geometric accuracy. The layer thickness was around z = 1 mm for both structures. Regarding the microstructural characterization, both materials displayed a dendritic structure. In the SS316L, the microstructure was composed by an austenitic matrix with δ-ferrite located in the grain boundaries. The microstructure of the Ni80-20 was characterized as an austenitic matrix, with some M7C3 and M23C6 precipitates. In addition, the Laves phase was also observed.
Which factors influence the oral health of nursing-home residents with cognitive and motor impairments?
Authors: Klotz Anna-Luisa , Zajac Melania , Ehret Judith , Kilian Samuel , Rammelsberg Peter , Zenthöfer Andreas
Published: March 2020

Background

There is limited information available about the oral and denture hygiene and oral health of nursing-home residents with cognitive and motor impairments.

Aims

The purpose of this study was to identify factors influencing the oral and denture hygiene and oral health of nursing-home residents with cognitive and motor impairments.

Methods

The study was performed in nine nursing-homes in Germany. Sociodemographic and general data were collected for all participants (n = 150). The Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) was used to identify the presence of dementia, and the Apraxia Screening Test (AST) was used to identify motor impairment. A comprehensive dental examination was also performed. This included the documentation of dental and denture status and the number of decayed, missing and filled teeth (DMFT). In addition, dental and denture hygiene were assessed using the Plaque Index (PI) and the Denture Hygiene Index (DHI). Univariate and multivariate regression models were used to analyse possible factors affecting the dependent target variables.

Results

In multivariate regression analysis, the factors that most strongly influenced greater PI were a lower number of medications taken (p = 0.018), poorer general health (p = 0.013) and the presence of dementia (p < 0.010). A more advanced age (p = 0.036) and longer nursing-home stay (p = 0.048) had a negative effect on the DHI. Furthermore, gender (p = 0.037, in favour of women), poorer general health (p = 0.003), presence of dementia (p = 0.003), and the absence of natural teeth (p = 0.028) influenced poorer oral health. The factors most strongly influenced greater number of missing teeth were a more advanced age (p = 0.021) and longer nursing-home stay (p = 0.015). In terms of fewer filled teeth, a shorter nursing-home stay (p = 0.002) was the factor most strongly influenced this.

Conclusions

Poorer general health and the presence of apraxia and cognitive impairment are the main determinants for poorer oral hygiene and oral health among nursing-home residents. A longer nursing-home stay also seems to be relevant for oral health and denture hygiene.
Zur Ökonomik des Falschparkens
Authors: Follert Florian , Emrich Eike
Published: March 2020

Derzeit versucht eine Initiative verschiedener Organisationen, im Rahmen einer Petition für eine Erhöhung der Strafen für Falschparken zu werben. Der vorliegende Beitrag nimmt dies zum Anlass, die Hintergründe des Vorhabens ökonomisch zu analysieren. Dafür bietet sich die Theorie unerwünschter Handlungen an. Neben der gegenwärtigen Diskussion um höhere Strafen, zeigt der Beitrag anhand der ökonomischen Theorie auf, welche Parameter von staatlicher Seite genutzt werden können, um die Entscheidung eines potentiellen Falschparkers in die gewünschte Richtung zu lenken. Dies sind insbesondere die Entdeckungswahrscheinlichkeit, die Strafart, die Strafhöhe sowie die Gewissenskosten des potentiellen Falschparkers. Auf modelltheoretischer Ebene werden einerseits das Verhalten des potentiellen Falschparkers und andererseits das Verhalten der Kommune diskutiert. Der Aufsatz liefert insofern einen Beitrag zur Stadtökonomik und zeigt verkehrspolitische Implikationen auf.
Die digitale Konstellation. Eine Positionsbestimmung
Authors: Berg Sebastian , Rakowski Niklas , Thiel Thorsten
Published: March 2020

Die Entwicklung der digitalen Gesellschaft ist in den Sozialwissenschaften zu einem zentralen Forschungsgegenstand aufgestiegen; in der Politikwissenschaft gilt allerdings, dass die Auseinandersetzung auf eher wenige Schwerpunkte – insbesondere Digitalisierung als vernetzte Kommunikation – beschränkt geblieben ist. Der Beitrag macht einen Vorschlag für eine andere Form der politikwissenschaftlichen Auseinandersetzung indem er – nach einer kritischen Rekonstruktion der Forschungsentwicklung in der Politikwissenschaft – breit rezipierte Diagnosen der digitalen Gesellschaft in Nachbardisziplinen wie der Soziologie und Rechtswissenschaft (Baecker, Nassehi, Reckwitz, Stalder und Vesting) rekonstruiert. Er arbeitet übergreifende Erkenntnisse im Digitalisierungsverständnis dieser Ansätze heraus, kritisiert jedoch deren Konzeptualisierung von Politik und Demokratie. Auf dieser Grundlage wird sodann ein Vorschlag unterbreitet, eine in der Politikwissenschaft anschlussfähigere Perspektive mittels des Konzepts der „digitalen Konstellation“ zu entwickeln. Dieses untersucht das Wechselspiel technischer und gesellschaftlicher Entwicklungen in Bezug auf den Zusammenhang zum Formwandel von Demokratie. Abschließend wird dies in einer exemplarischen Analyse von Veränderungen des Repräsentationskonzepts im digitalen Kontext veranschaulicht.
Decreased radiation exposure using pulsed fluoroscopy and a detachable pedicle marker and probe to place pedicle screws: a comparison to current fluoroscopy techniques and CT navigation
Authors: Marco Rex A. W. , Curry Michael C. , Mujezinovic Faruk , Linton Judith
Published: March 2020

Study design

Quality improvement evaluation with retrospective analysis.

Objectives

To compare a technique to place pedicle screws (PS) using a novel detachable pedicle marker and probe (DPMP) and pulsed fluoroscopy (PF) vs. conventional technique utilizing PF with standard instruments (SI) and O-arm.

Summary of background data

Spinal fusion with pedicle screw instrumentation (PSI) is the mainstay in treatment of spinal deformities. Reports suggest that CT navigated (O-arm) PS placement is more accurate than fluoroscopy. However, these studies have not considered the increased radiation exposure associated with CT.

Methods

Thirty-six patients with spinal deformity had PSI using PF and DPMPs. Accuracy of PS placement and radiation data from 14 dosimeters placed on the patient and around the operating room was analyzed. Results were compared to published data.

Results

Mean fluoroscopic time was 13.4 s (range 6.0–32.4), and the mean cumulative dose was 3.1 mGy (range 0.2–16.4). Median estimated effective dose to the patient was 0.22 mSv (range 0.0–0.7). The effective dose of radiation was reduced by 80% (0.22 mSv vs. 1.11 mSv) compared to low-dose O-arm. The surgical team did not receive any detectable radiation. The seconds of PF used to assist and confirm placement of PSs was reduced to 1.2 s/level compared to previous reports of 4.49 s/level using SIs. DPMPs reduced fluoroscopy to 0.84 s/PS compared to 7.36 s/PS using SIs to assist and confirm PS placement. PSs were accurately placed in 561 of 576 (97.4%), which is comparable to O-arm and fluoroscopy with SIs.

Conclusions

PS placement using PF and DPMPs to assist and confirm PS placement lowers radiation exposure to the patient and surgical team without compromising accuracy compared to O-arm and fluoroscopy with SIs.

Level of evidence

Therapeutic, Level IV (Retrospective case series, historical control).
Innovative bio-composite bicycle swing bridge “Ritsumasyl” in the Netherlands shows why the industry should embrace bio-based composites
Authors: Mathijsen Django
Published: March 2020

Governments in Europe are pushing for sustainable, environmentally friendly and bio-based technologies, enforcing restrictive laws, and selecting “green” materials and techniques for infrastructural and construction projects. This could be good news for the reinforced plastics industry, since steel and concrete are frowned upon for their environmental impact. However, wood processing industries are already jumping into the gap, exploiting their “bio-based” image. The reinforced plastics industry, although arguably with clear, potential benefits, is lagging behind. In the Dutch province of Friesland, an innovative bio-composite bicycle swing bridge was opened to show the way. We talk to Daan van Rooijen and Rik Brouwer of NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences, who were involved in its development.
Outcomes of Endovascular Thrombectomy for Basilar Artery Occlusion
Authors: Pasarikovski Christopher R. , Khosravani Houman , da Costa Leodante , Heyn Chinthaka , Priola Stefano M. , Ku Jerry C. , Black Sandra E. , Gladstone David J. , Yang Victor X. D.
Published: March 2020

Background and Purpose:

Large prospective observational studies have cast doubt on the common assumption that endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) is superior to intravenous thrombolysis for patients with acute basilar artery occlusion (BAO). The purpose of this study was to retrospectively review our experience for patients with BAO undergoing EVT with modern endovascular devices.

Methods:

All consecutive patients undergoing EVT with either a second-generation stent retriever or direct aspiration thrombectomy for BAO at our regional stroke center from January 1, 2013 to March 1, 2019 were included. The primary outcome measure was functional outcome at 1 month using the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the association between patient characteristics and dichotomized mRS.

Results:

A total of 43 consecutive patients underwent EVT for BAO. The average age was 67 years with 61% male patients. Overall, 37% (16/43) of patients achieved good functional outcome. Successful reperfusion was achieved in 72% (31/43) of cases. The median (interquartile range) stroke onset to treatment time was 420 (270–639) minutes (7 hours) for all patients. The procedure-related complication rate was 9% (4/43). On multivariate analysis, posterior circulation Alberta stroke program early computed tomography score and Basilar Artery on Computed Tomography Angiography score were associated with improved functional outcome.

Conclusion:

EVT appears to be safe and feasible in patients with BAO. Our finding that time to treatment and successful reperfusion were not associated with improved outcome is likely due to including patients with established infarcts. Given the variability of collaterals in the posterior circulation, the paradigm of utilizing a tissue window may assist in patient selection for EVT. Magnetic resonance imaging may be a reasonable option to determine the extent of ischemia in certain situations.