bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of venous stenting for venous thromboembolism
Authors: Breen Karen
Published: December 2020

Endovenous stenting has emerged as the method of choice to treat iliofemoral venous outflow obstruction. It is used in patients with established postthrombotic syndrome (PTS) after previous deep vein thrombosis (DVT) to reduce symptoms of chronic pain and swelling and to aid ulcer healing in severe cases. Venous stenting is used to alleviate symptoms of obstruction in patients presenting with acute DVT, with the aim of preventing development of PTS. There is a low risk of morbidity and mortality associated with the use of endovenous stenting, and although significant advances have been made, particularly improvements in stent design for use in the venous circulation, data are lacking on beneficial long-term outcomes. Unmet research needs include optimal patient selection, anticoagulant choice and duration, best practice for postoperative surveillance, and use of validated assessment tools to measure outcomes. In this article, I address the potential benefits, as well as the challenges, of endovenous stenting.
Rituximab and eculizumab when treating nonmalignant hematologic disorders: infection risk, immunization recommendations, and antimicrobial prophylaxis needs
Authors: Engel Elissa R. , Walter Jolan E.
Published: December 2020

Rituximab and eculizumab, monoclonal antibodies that deplete most B cells and activate the terminal complement, respectively, are used to treat nonmalignant hematologic disorders (NMHDs), sometimes with unfavorable effects on the immune system. Hypogammaglobulinemia and neutropenia have been reported with variable prevalence in patients treated with rituximab. Neutropenia is mild and transient, and serious infectious complications are uncommon, so treatment is not indicated. Hypogammaglobulinemia is of greater concern. There is a lack of agreement on a standardized definition, and pre- and posttreatment immunoglobulin (Ig) levels are not routinely obtained. The association among low Ig levels, infectious risk, and mortality and morbidity in this population is unclear. There are also no formal guidelines on indication, risk factors, and threshold level of IgG to prompt Ig replacement therapy (IgRT). Among patients with NMHD, preexisting or persistent hypogammaglobulinemia (PH) after treatment with rituximab has been linked to underlying primary immunodeficiency disorders; therefore, a high index of suspicion should be maintained, and immunologic and genetic evaluation should be considered. Overall, important strategies in managing patients who are receiving rituximab include routine monitoring of pre- and posttreatment IgG levels, immune reconstitution (eg, B-cell subsets), assessment of vaccination status and optimization before treatment, and individualized consideration for IgRT. Accordingly, we discuss immunizations. Eculizumab, most commonly used in the treatment of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria and atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome, poses increased risk of meningococcal infections. To decrease the risk of infection, a meningococcal vaccination series is recommended before initiating therapy, and prophylactic antibiotics are preferred during the course of treatment.
How to evaluate for immunodeficiency in patients with autoimmune cytopenias: laboratory evaluation for the diagnosis of inborn errors of immunity associated with immune dysregulation
Authors: Abraham Roshini S.
Published: December 2020

The identification of genetic disorders associated with dysregulated immunity has upended the notion that germline pathogenic variants in immune genes universally result in susceptibility to infection. Immune dysregulation (autoimmunity, autoinflammation, lymphoproliferation, and malignancy) and immunodeficiency (susceptibility to infection) represent 2 sides of the same coin and are not mutually exclusive. Also, although autoimmunity implies dysregulation within the adaptive immune system and autoinflammation indicates disordered innate immunity, these lines may be blurred, depending on the genetic defect and diversity in clinical and immunological phenotypes. Patients with immune dysregulatory disorders may present to a variety of clinical specialties, depending on the dominant clinical features. Therefore, awareness of these disorders, which may manifest at any age, is essential to avoid a protracted diagnostic evaluation and associated complications. Availability of and access to expanded immunological testing has altered the diagnostic landscape for immunological diseases. Nonetheless, there are constraints in using these resources due to a lack of awareness, challenges in systematic and logical evaluation, interpretation of results, and using results to justify additional advanced testing, when needed. The ability to molecularly characterize immune defects and develop “bespoke” therapy and management mandates a new paradigm for diagnostic evaluation of these patients. The immunological tests run the gamut from triage to confirmation and can be used for both diagnosis and refinement of treatment or management strategies. However, the complexity of testing and interpretation of results often necessitates dialogue between laboratory immunologists and specialty physicians to ensure timely and appropriate use of testing and delivery of care.
Which patients are at high risk of recurrent venous thromboembolism (deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism)?
Authors: Áinle Fionnuala Ní , Kevane Barry
Published: December 2020

Recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE, or deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism) is associated with mortality and long-term morbidity. The circumstances in which an index VTE event occurred are crucial when personalized VTE recurrence risk is assessed. Patients who experience a VTE event in the setting of a transient major risk factor (such as surgery associated with general anesthesia for >30 minutes) are predicted to have a low VTE recurrence risk following discontinuation of anticoagulation, and limited-duration anticoagulation is generally recommended. In contrast, those patients whose VTE event occurred in the absence of risk factors or who have persistent risk factors have a higher VTE recurrence risk. Here, we review the literature surrounding VTE recurrence risk in a range of clinical conditions. We describe gender-specific risks, including VTE recurrence risk following hormone- and pregnancy-associated VTE events. Finally, we discuss how the competing impacts of VTE recurrence and bleeding have shaped international guideline recommendations.
Next-generation cell therapies: the emerging role of CAR-NK cells
Authors: Basar Rafet , Daher May , Rezvani Katayoun
Published: December 2020

T cells engineered with chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) have revolutionized the field of cell therapy and changed the paradigm of treatment for many patients with relapsed or refractory B-cell malignancies. Despite this progress, there are limitations to CAR-T cell therapy in both the autologous and allogeneic settings, including practical, logistical, and toxicity issues. Given these concerns, there is a rapidly growing interest in natural killer cells as alternative vehicles for CAR engineering, given their unique biological features and their established safety profile in the allogeneic setting. Other immune effector cells, such as invariant natural killer T cells, γδ T cells, and macrophages, are attracting interest as well and eventually may be added to the repertoire of engineered cell therapies against cancer. The pace of these developments will undoubtedly benefit from multiple innovative technologies, such as the CRISPR-Cas gene editing system, which offers great potential to enhance the natural ability of immune effector cells to eliminate refractory cancers.
Harnessing lymphoma epigenetics to improve therapies (article not eligible for CME credit)
Authors: Yang Haopeng , Green Michael R.
Published: December 2020

Affinity maturation and terminal differentiation of B cells via the germinal center reaction is a complex multistep process controlled by transcription factors that induce or suppress large dynamic transcriptional programs. This occurs via the recruitment of coactivator or corepressor complexes that epigenetically regulate gene expression by post-translationally modifying histones and/or remodeling chromatin structure. B-cell–intrinsic developmental programs both regulate and respond to interactions with other cells in the germinal center that provide survival and differentiation signals, such as T-follicular helper cells and follicular dendritic cells. Epigenetic and transcriptional programs that naturally occur during B-cell development are hijacked in B-cell lymphoma by genetic alterations that directly or indirectly change the function of transcription factors and/or chromatin-modifying genes. These in turn skew differentiation toward the tumor cell of origin and alter interactions between lymphoma B cells and other cells within the microenvironment. Understanding the mechanisms by which genetic alterations perturb epigenetic and transcriptional programs regulating B-cell development and immune interactions may identify opportunities to target these programs using epigenetic-modifying agents. Here, we discuss recently published studies centered on follicular lymphoma and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma within the context of prior knowledge, and we highlight how these insights have informed potential avenues for rational therapeutic interventions.
Psychometric properties of the simplified Chinese version of the observer OPTION5 scale
Authors: Chen Zhaojuan , Bai Xuefei , Jin Guanghui , Tao Xin , Huang Guowei , Zhao Yali
Published: December 2020

Background

OPTION5 is a scale used to evaluate shared decision making (SDM) in health care from an observer’s perspective; however, to date, there is no simplified Chinese version of this scale.

Objectives

This study aims to produce a simplified Chinese version of the OPTION5 scale and to test its psychometric properties.

Methods

One rater observed and audio-recorded consultations between general practitioners (GPs) and chronically ill patients in a Beijing community health service center (CHSC) from May to June 2019. Meanwhile, demographic data of the patients and GPs were collected via information forms. Two raters assessed inter- and intra-rater reliability by calculating the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and weighted Cohen’s Kappa values. Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach’s α value. Concurrent was calculated by Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient.

Results

A total of 209 consultations were recorded and evaluated. As concerns inter-rater reliability, the ICC of the OPTION5 was 0.859 on the total score level, with Cohen’s weighted k ranging from 0.376 (item 5) to 0.649 (item 2) on the single item level. With regard to intra-rater reliability, the ICC was 0.945 on the total score level, with Cohen’s weighted k ranging from 0.469 (item 5) to 0.883 (item1) on the single item level. Cronbach’s α value of all 5 items amounted to 0.746. Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient between OPTION5 and OPTION12 for Chinese versions was 0.660.

Conclusions

The simplified Chinese version of the OPTION5 scale, developed using stringent translation procedures, demonstrated satisfactory psychometric characteristics. Specifically, inter- and intra-rater reliabilities were excellent, while criterion validity was moderate. The simplified Chinese version of the OPTION5 scale can be implemented in clinical settings to evaluate SDM of treatment during consultations between GPs and chronically ill patients.
What might it cost to increase soil organic carbon using no-till on U.S. cropland?
Authors: Sperow Mark
Published: December 2020

Background

Existing research provides estimates of the biophysical potential for increasing soil organic carbon (SOC) stock, however additional research is needed to enhance our understanding of the economic potential for agricultural soils to offset or help reduce CO2 emissions. This study derives the marginal cost to increase SOC sequestration by combining SOC sequestration potential estimates developed using the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) factors with an existing payment scheme that was designed to increase no-till (NT) adoption on U.S. cropland. The marginal costs of increasing SOC is a function of the amount of SOC that could be increased through NT and the expected cost to landowners of changing management to use NT.

Results

The variability in SOC sequestration rates due to different land-use, management histories, climate, and soils, combined with the 48 unique payment rates to adopt NT, yield over 5,000 unique marginal cost values for increasing SOC sequestration. Nearly 95 percent of the biophysical potential SOC sequestration increase on U.S. cropland (2802 Tg CO2 from 140.1 Tg CO2 year−1 for 20 years) could be captured for less than $100 Mg−1 CO2. An estimated 64 to 93 percent of the biophysical potential could be captured for less than the low and high estimated costs to capture CO2 for geologic storage of $36.36 to $86.06 Mg−1 CO2, respectively.

Conclusions

Decreasing tillage intensity through adoption of no-till agriculture offers a cost-effective way to offset a portion of increasing global CO2 emissions. This research demonstrates that increasing SOC stocks through NT adoption can offset CO2 emissions at a lower cost than some other options for preventing CO2 from entering the atmosphere.
Identification and validation of endogenous control miRNAs in plasma samples for normalization of qPCR data for Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Dakterzada F. , Targa A. , Benítez I. D. , Romero-ElKhayat L. , de Gonzalo-Calvo D. , Torres G. , Moncusí-Moix A. , Huerto R. , Sánchez-de-la-Torre M. , Barbé F. , Piñol-Ripoll G.
Published: December 2020

Background

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are noncoding RNAs that are highly relevant as disease biomarkers. Several studies that explored the role of miRNAs in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) demonstrated their usefulness in clinical identification. Nevertheless, miRNAs that may act as endogenous controls (ECs) have not yet been established. The identification of ECs would contribute to the standardization of these biomarkers in AD. The objective of the study was to identify miRNAs that can be used as ECs in AD.

Methods

We evaluated 145 patients divided into two different cohorts. One was a discovery cohort of 19 women diagnosed with mild to moderate AD (Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score ≥ 20) and with confirmed pathologic levels of Aβ42 in CSF. The stability assessment cohort consisted of 126 individuals: 24 subjects without AD or any kind of dementia and negative for all core CSF biomarkers of AD, 25 subjects with MCI and negative for CSF biomarkers (MCI −), 22 subjects with MCI and positive for CSF biomarkers (MCI +), and 55 subjects with AD and positive for CSF biomarkers. In the discovery cohort, a profile of 384 miRNAs was determined in the plasma by TaqMan low-density array. The best EC candidates were identified by mean-centering and concordance correlation restricted normalization methods. The stability of the EC candidates was assessed using the GeNorm, BestKeeper, and NormFinder algorithms.

Results

Nine miRNAs (hsa-miR-324-5p, hsa-miR-22-5p, hsa-miR-103a-2-5p, hsa-miR-362-5p, hsa-miR-425-3p, hsa-miR-423-5p, hsa-let-7i-3p, hsa-miR-532-5p, and hsa-miR-1301-3p) were identified as EC candidates in the discovery cohort. The validation results indicated that hsa-miR-103a-2-5p was the best EC, followed by hsa-miR-22-5p, hsa-miR-1301-3p, and hsa-miR-425-3p, which had similar stability values in all three algorithms.

Conclusions

We identified a profile of four miRNAs as potential plasma ECs to be used for normalization of miRNA expression data in studies of subjects with cognitive impairment.
Removal of TPH, UCM, PAHs, and Alk-PAHs in oil-contaminated soil by thermal desorption
Authors: Choi Byeongwook , Lee Sungjong , Jho Eun Hea
Published: December 2020

Oil-contaminated soils from a former landfill and gas station site in Korea were treated by thermal desorption. The removal efficiencies of the different oil components such as total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH), polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), unresolved complex mixtures (UCM), and alkylated PAHs (Alk-PAHs) by thermal desorption were determined. The effects of temperatures (200, 400, and 600 °C) and treatment times (15, 30, 45, and 60 min) on the thermal desorption efficiency were studied. The treatment efficiency increased with increasing temperature from 200 to 400 °C and with increasing treatment time. Almost complete removals of TPH, UCM, PAHs, and Alk-PAHs were observed after 15 min at 400 °C. The treatment temperatures of 400 and 600 °C did not show a significant difference (p-value > 0.05). Overall, this study shows that the different components of oil in the oil-contaminated soils can be treated effectively in a relatively short time by thermal desorption, and such high removal efficiency in a relatively short time for the oil-contaminated soils can be of advantage for the treatment of highly contaminated or weathered soils where biological treatment efficiency is low.
In-Vitro antioxidant, anti-lipid peroxidative activities and In-Silico study of Terminalia chebula bioactive compounds
Authors: Sabir Syed Mubashar , Abbas Syed Rizwan , Shahida Shabnam , Khan Muhammad Faraz
Published: December 2020

Objective

To evaluate the antioxidant activities and to identify the bioactive compounds in hot water extracts ofTerminalia chebulafruit.

Methods

The antioxidant activities were determined by DPPH assay, lipid peroxidation assay, iron chelation and total antioxidant assay. The phenolic composition was determined by HPLC-DAD. Human Rab8b Protein was used for the validation of compounds as anti-inflammation. String analysis for protein synergism was used.

Results

The analysis ofTerminalia chebulaRetzius (Combretaceae) phenolics showed anti-inflammatory effect. The specific phenolic compositions were determined by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and resulted in the identification of rutin, catechin, caffeic acid, gallicacid, ellagic acid, epicatechin, and quercetin as antioxidant compounds. Human Rab8b protein is selected for protein docking and all compounds except rutin showed good results. ADMET properties were checked by using AdmetSar and all seven compounds showed validation for AMET properties. The synergisms of compounds were analyzed by STRING analysis and our ligands shows strong binding with human Rab8b proteins. The aqueous extract was capable of inhibiting the lipid peroxidation in egg yolk phospholipid homogenate. The extract scavenged the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH) (IC50,71.5 ± 2.1 μg/ml). The extract displayed the high metal chelation activities and reducing abilities on the phosphomolybdenum assay.

Conclusions

It is concluded that extracts ofT. chebulahave good antioxidant and anti-inflammation activities and are rich in phenolics.
Antiglycative and anti-inflammatory effects of lipophilized tyrosol derivatives
Authors: Hu Xiaoqian , Wang Mingfu , Shahidi Fereidoon
Published: December 2020

To expand the application of tyrosol, a series of lipophilized tyrosol derivatives were synthesized via esterification of tyrosol with fatty acids of different chain lengths. The antiglycative activity of tyrosol esters so prepared was subsequently examined in the bovine serum albumin/glucose system. A quasi-parabolic shape was observed when the activity was plotted against alkyl chain length. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory effects of these derivatives were evaluated against methylglyoxal-induced inflammation in RAW264.7 cells. The same trend on anti-inflammatory activity was found as in the antiglycation study. The results showed that tyrosol esters with C12:0 and C14:0 were two most efficient ones among all the tested derivatives. Thus, some lipophilized tyrosol derivatives were stronger antiglycative and anti-inflammatory agents compared to the parent compound, tyrosol.

Graphical abstract
Association of Maternal-Neonatal Steroids With Early Pregnancy Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals and Pregnancy Outcomes
Authors: Banker Margaret , Puttabyatappa Muraly , O’Day Patrick , Goodrich Jaclyn M , Kelley Angela S , Domino Steven E , Smith Yolanda R , Dolinoy Dana C , Song Peter X K , Auchus Richard J , Padmanabhan Vasantha
Published: December 2020

Context

Steroids play an important role in fetal development and parturition. Gestational exposures to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) affect steroidal milieu and pregnancy outcomes, raising the possibility of steroids serving as biomarkers. Most studies have not addressed the impact of EDC mixtures, which are reflective of real life scenarios.

Objective

Assess the association of maternal and neonatal steroids with pregnancy outcomes and early pregnancy EDC levels.

Design

Prospective analysis of mother-infant dyads.

Setting

University hospital.

Participants

121 mother-infant dyads.

Main Outcome Measures

The associations of maternal and neonatal steroidal hormones from 121 dyads with pregnancy outcomes, the associations of first trimester EDCs individually and as mixtures with maternal and neonatal steroids in a subset of 56 dyads and the influence of body mass index (BMI), age, and offspring sex in modulating the EDC associations with steroids were determined.

Results

Steroid-specific positive or negative associations with pregnancy measures were evident; many maternal first trimester EDCs were negatively associated with estrogens and positively with androgen/estrogen ratios; EDC-steroid associations were influenced by maternal age, pre-pregnancy BMI, and fetal sex; and EDCs individually and as mixtures showed direct and inverse fetal sex-dependent associations with maternal and neonatal steroids.

Conclusions

This proof-of-concept study indicates association of steroids with pregnancy outcomes depending on maternal age, prepregnancy BMI, and fetal sex, with the effects of EDCs differing when considered individually or as mixtures. These findings suggest that steroidal hormonal measures have potential to serve as biomarkers of impact of EDC exposures and pregnancy outcome.
Russian Initiative Developments (Initiative. Enterprise. Relish)
Authors: Galkina I. A. , Grishan I. A.
Published: December 2020

Электронный сборник «Российские инициативные разработки» - разработан в инициативном порядке по материалам Объединенного фонда электронных ресурсов «Наука и образование». Сборник содержит полнотекстовые рекламно-технические описания электронных ресурсов, зарегистрированных в Объединенном фонде электронных ресурсов «Наука и образование» авторами-индивидуалами и авторскими коллективами. Каждый информационный блок сопровождается УДК, ГРНТИ, ББК; содержит программно-технические характеристики, адреса электронной почты авторов. Предваряет сборник аналитика его материалов, что позволяет судить о направленности интеллектуальной деятельности авторов – физических лиц. Сборник адресован научно-педагогическому сообществу страны.
Building entrepreneurial researcher capacity to increase positive changes in practice
Authors: Briscoe Patricia , Persad Robin
Published: December 2020

Background:

Over the past decade, research-based and evidence-informed decision-making have played increasingly important roles in influencing educational policy and impacting practices in education. The dissemination, implementation and sustainability of research-to-practice are thus fruitful topics for discussion. Even though, as Oliver and Cairney (2019) report, there is no shortage of literature on the topic, many academics struggle with where to start. This entrepreneurial concept is based on the current literature and the author’s experiences working with an Ontario Ministry of Education in Canada initiative designed to promote a systems approach to building research-practitioner partnerships so as to mobilise findings into practice.

Aims and objectives:

This practice paper is meant to offer such a starting place. It introduces the concept of the `entrepreneurial researcher’ and provides concrete strategies by which contemporary researchers can develop entrepreneurial skills to plan, promote and mobilise their research and findings. In doing so, the researchers may arrive at a better understanding of self-actualization opportunities and move beyond the institutional barriers (i.e. academic institutions), that underlie and incentivise much of scholarly publication, to broaden their research focus and dissemination (Best and Holmes 2010).

Key conclusions:

We suggest a revised research process that includes the importance and application of collaborative planning, networking, partnerships and knowledge mobilisation processes. Also, recognizing the goals of many research agendas to improve and impact practice, we provide a list of recommendations for researchers to support greater transfer of research into practice.
Model-informed deep learning for computational lithography with partially coherent illumination
Authors: Zheng Xianqiang , Ma Xu , Zhao Qile , Pan Yihua , Arce Gonzalo R.
Published: December 2020

Computational lithography is a key technique to optimize the imaging performance of optical lithography systems. However, the large amount of calculation involved in computational lithography significantly increases the computational complexity. This paper proposes a model-informed deep learning (MIDL) approach to improve its computational efficiency and to enhance the image fidelity of lithography system with partially coherent illumination (PCI). Different from conventional deep learning approaches, the network structure of MIDL is derived from an approximate compact imaging model of PCI lithography system. MIDL has a dual-channel structure, which overcomes the vanishing gradient problem and improves its prediction capacity. In addition, an unsupervised training method is developed based on an accurate lithography imaging model to avoid the computational cost of labelling process. It is shown that the MIDL provides significant gains in terms of computational efficiency and imaging performance of PCI lithography system.
Journey from a Humanitarian NGO to a Social Enterprise in Malta
Authors: Breikss Harald
Published: December 2020

This paper, via field observations and interviews, explores the implications of running a small scale non-governmental organisation in Malta whose intention it is to establish a social business despite the absence of social business-friendly laws in the national legal system.
Primary Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma of the Rectosigmoid Colon in a Patient With Ulcerative Colitis Who Never Received Immunosuppression
Authors: Mulat Baruh Bruck , Boroda Konstantin , Guddati Harish , Kiyici Nejat
Published: December 2020

Primary rectal lymphoma is extremely rare, accounting for approximately 0.05% of all primary rectal neoplasms. We present a patient with long-standing ulcerative colitis, who was never treated with immunomodulators or biologic agents, diagnosed with primary diffuse large B-cell lymphoma of the rectosigmoid colon, and achieved remission after chemotherapy. As per current data, incidence of primary colorectal lymphoma has been associated with medications used for inflammatory bowel disease treatment, such as thiopurine, methotrexate, or tumor necrosis factor-α antagonist, and not with the inflammation itself. Given the rarity of this phenomenon, more data should be gathered before determining that no such association exists.
Validación de un diccionario de LIWC para identificar emociones intergrupales
Authors:   Universidad Católica de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia, Garzón-Velandia Diana Camila , Barreto Idaly ,   Universidad Católica de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia, Medina-Arboleda Iván Felipe ,   Universidad Católica de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
Published: December 2020

Desde la tradición de analizar constructos psicológicos a partir del lenguaje, esta investigación de tipo instrumental tiene el objetivo de validar un diccionario de emociones intergrupales, cuyo proceso se fundamentó en el diseño, conformación y validación de listados de palabras asociadas a 38 emociones intergrupales, útiles para identificar emociones en corpus lingüísticos, analizados mediante el software Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count (LIWC), cuya función principal es identificar categorías lingüísticas y psicológicas en textos escritos. Nueve jueces, divididos en tres grupos, calificaron las palabras de acuerdo con los parámetros de pertinencia y relevancia de cada palabra, en relación con cada emoción. Enseguida, las puntuaciones se complementaron con una metodología de bloques aleatorios incompletos, a fin de estimar la calificación de las palabras restantes. Se encontró consistencia aceptable entre jueces, así como ajuste de sus puntuaciones en el modelo de Rasch, lo que permitió aceptar los resultados. A partir de las calificaciones, se depuró el 9 % de las palabras raíz, asociadas a 38 emociones (18 negativas, 17 positivas y 3 neutrales), complementadas con sus respectivas desinencias.
Multiplicity and concentration behaviour of solutions for a fractional Choquard equation with critical growth
Authors: Yang Zhipeng , Zhao Fukun
Published: December 2020

In this paper, we study the singularly perturbed fractional Choquard equation

ε2s(−Δ)su+V(x)u=εμ−3(∫R3|u(y)|2μ,s∗+F(u(y))|x−y|μdy)(|u|2μ,s∗−2u+12μ,s∗f(u))inR3,$$\begin{equation*}\varepsilon^{2s}(-{\it\Delta})^su+V(x)u=\varepsilon^{\mu-3}(\int\limits_{\mathbb{R}^3}\frac{|u(y)|^{2^*_{\mu,s}}+F(u(y))}{|x-y|^\mu}dy)(|u|^{2^*_{\mu,s}-2}u+\frac{1}{2^*_{\mu,s}}f(u)) \, \text{in}\, \mathbb{R}^3, \end{equation*}$$

whereε> 0 is a small parameter, (−△)sdenotes the fractional Laplacian of orders ∈(0, 1), 0 <μ< 3,2μ,s⋆=6−μ3−2s$2_{\mu ,s}^{\star }=\frac{6-\mu }{3-2s}$is the critical exponent in the sense of Hardy-Littlewood-Sobolev inequality and fractional Laplace operator.Fis the primitive offwhich is a continuous subcritical term. Under a local condition imposed on the potentialV, we investigate the relation between the number of positive solutions and the topology of the set where the potential attains its minimum values. In the proofs we apply variational methods, penalization techniques and Ljusternik-Schnirelmann theory.
Global solvability in a three-dimensional Keller-Segel-Stokes system involving arbitrary superlinear logistic degradation
Authors: Wang Yulan , Winkler Michael , Xiang Zhaoyin
Published: December 2020

The Keller-Segel-Stokes system

(*)

n
t

+
u
⋅
∇
n

=

Δ
n
−
∇
⋅
(
n
∇
c
)
+
ρ
n
−
μ

n
α

,

c
t

+
u
⋅
∇
c

=

Δ
c
−
c
+
n
,

u
t

=

Δ
u
+
∇
P
−
n
∇
Λ
,

∇
⋅
u
=
0
,

$$\begin{eqnarray*} \left\{ \begin{array}{lcll} n_t + u\cdot\nabla n &=& \it\Delta n - \nabla \cdot (n\nabla c) + \rho n - \mu n^\alpha, \\[1mm] c_t + u\cdot\nabla c &=& \it\Delta c-c+n, \\[1mm] u_t &=& \it\Delta u + \nabla P - n\nabla \it\Lambda, \qquad \nabla\cdot u =0, \end{array} \right. \end{eqnarray*}$$

is considered in a bounded domain Ω ⊂ ℝ3 with smooth boundary, with parameters ρ ≥ 0, μ > 0 and α > 1, and with a given gravitational potential Λ ∈ W
2,∞(Ω).

It is shown that in this general setting, when posed under no-flux boundary conditions for n and c and homogeneous Dirichlet boundary conditions for u, and for any suitably regular initial data, an associated initial value problem possesses at least one globally defined solution in an appropriate generalized sense. Since it is well-known that in the absence of absorption, already the corresponding fluid-free subsystem with u ≡ 0 and μ = 0 admits some solutions blowing up in finite time, this particularly indicates that any power-type superlinear degradation of the form in (*) goes along with some significant regularizing effect.
Experiences and practices of English as a lingua franca communication in the international university: An integrative view of student voices
Authors: Lee Seongyong , Kim Arum
Published: December 2020

Students’ experiences and practices regarding English as a lingua franca (ELF) have been central to the discussion in research on intercultural communication in academia as it provides the basis for English language policy and practices in the international university. To date, however, few previous studies have explored diverse factors for perceptions of ELF communication with a single framework. To fill this gap, this study provides the integrative research model for perceptions and behaviours regarding ELF communication in the international university context, using Theory of Planned Behaviour. It further explores the effect of those factors on actual intentions to engage in ELF communication. Data were collected from 232 questionnaires and seven interviews on the offshore campus of a Hong Kong university in mainland China. Findings showed that factors such as acceptance, social expectations, the sense of control over linguistic knowledge for intercultural communication, and self-esteem had significant effects on intentions. The study concluded that ELF speakers’ decision-making process to engage in ELF communication is not simply based on individual behaviour, but on social performance in academic communities of practice. This study suggests academic and educational implications for incorporating the ELF perspective into English language policy and practices in the international university.
The Cultural Biography of a Pilgrimage Token: From Hagiographical to Archaeological Evidence
Authors: Boero Dina
Published: December 2020

Across the eastern Mediterranean, the personnel of late antique pilgrimage sites distributed terracotta tokens stamped with depictions of saints, scenes from the life of Christ, and related imagery. Using primarily hagiographical sources, scholars associate tokens with healing practices, the veneration of icons, and the worship of relics. Certainly, hagiographies offer valuable representations of ritual processes, but they also make claims on the proper distribution, meaning, and use of tokens amidst a diversity of intercessory activities. How, in practice, was a token produced and distributed? How did pilgrims use tokens at and away from pilgrimage complexes beyond the assertions made by hagiographers? This article answers these questions by tracing the “cultural biography” of a token. It analyzes the archaeological contexts of tokens in order to clarify select statuses that a token might occupy during its lifetime, including commodity, gift, domestic object, funerary object, relic, rubbish, and art object. This approach lays the foundation for examining hagiographical claims regarding the use of tokens as one among many assertions in the contested process of harnessing the power of saints. It illustrates the capacity of devotees to exhibit diverse practices as well as the efforts of personnel at pilgrimage sites to shape those practices.
Séquences onomastiques divines à Ostie-Portus
Authors: Van Haeperen Françoise
Published: December 2020

The corpus of dedications from the ports of Rome, Ostia, and Portus, is examined through the lens of divine onomastic sequences, as defined by the Mapping Ancient Polytheisms (MAP) team. About forty onomastic attributes have been identified, nearly half of which appear more than once. The agents of these dedications are then investigated, before assessing the extent to which chronological and spatial dimensions have had an impact on the divine onomastic sequences attested at Ostia and Portus. Some reflections are also proposed on: the onomastic attributesaugustus,sanctus,andNumen, frequent in the ports of Rome; divine onomastic sequences linked to groups or individuals; “functional” and “altero-divine” onomastic sequences. Finally, the variety of onomastic sequences that can be applied to the same deity is considered. This research thus testifies to the interest and operability of the tools forged by the MAP team, also in the Latin-speaking world.
Spectral Properties of Fermi Blazars and their Unification Schemes
Authors: Iyida Evaristus U. , Odo Finbarr C. , Chukwude Augustine E. , Ubachukwu Augustine A.
Published: December 2020

We use the distributions of spectral indices (α
v
) of a large homogenous sample of Fermi-detected blazars to re-investigate the relationship between flat spectrum radio quasars (FSRQs) and subclasses of BL Lac objects (BL Lacs). We compute the broadband synchrotron and Compton spectral indices from radio-to-X-ray and X-ray to y-ray bands, respectively. Analyses of our data show continuity in the distributions of the spectral indices from FSRQs to HSP through LSP and ISP subclasses of BL Lacs. We find from y-ray luminosity distribution that the jetted radio galaxies form the low-luminosity tail of the distribution, which is suggestive that the sequence can be extended to the young jetted galaxy populations. We observe a significant difference in the shape of Compton and synchrotron spectra: significant anti-correlation (r ∼−0.80) exists between the broadband Compton and synchrotron spectral indices. Furthermore, the broadband spectral indices vary significantly with redshift (z) at low redshift (z < 0.3) and remain fairly constant at high (z ≥ 0.3) redshift. The trend of the variations suggests a form of evolutionary connection between subclasses of blazars. Thus, while selection effect may be significant at low redshift, evolutionary sequence can also be important. Our results are not only consistent with a unified scheme for blazars and their young jetted galaxy counterparts but also suggest that the broadband spectral sequence of blazars is not a secondary effect of redshift dependence.
Relationship of FTO gene variations with NAFLD risk in Chinese men
Authors: Chen Xuefen , Gao Yong , Yang Xiaobo , Zhang Haiying , Mo Zengnan , Tan Aihua
Published: December 2020

Background

Fat mass and obesity-associated (FTO) gene is an obesity susceptibility gene and its relationship with the nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the relationships of FTO gene variations with NAFLD risk in a Chinese male population.

Methods

A 1:2 matched case–control study was performed on 275 cases of NAFLD and 550 controls matched for age. Nine of the FTO gene single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were genotyped.

Results

Logistic regression analysis found that FTO rs1477196 was significantly associated with the susceptibility to NAFLD in recessive genetic models [unadjusted odds ratio (OR) = 2.52, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.22–5.19, P = 0.012] and the relativity weakened after further adjustment for body mass index (BMI), uric acid, metabolic syndrome, smoking, and drinking (adjusted OR = 2.18, 95% CI: 0.96–4.99, P = 0.06). In the obese group, the AA + AG genotypes of rs1121980 and rs9940128 were associated with a decreased risk of NAFLD, when compared with the GG genotype, respectively (rs1121980: adjusted OR = 0.62, 95% CI = 0.39–0.99, P = 0.044; rs9940128: adjusted OR = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.38–0.97, P = 0.038). Furthermore, rs1477196 was associated with the severity of NAFLD (OR = 2.95, 95% CI = 1.09–7.94, P = 0.034).

Conclusions

Our results demonstrated that the FTO gene was related to the presence and severity of NAFLD in a Chinese male population, and the relationships of the tested SNPs with NAFLD are most probably mediated by BMI.
Designing a diagnostic Total Testing Process as a base for supporting diagnostic stewardship
Authors: Cobbaert Christa , Albersen Arjan , Zwiers Irna , Schippers Pascal , Gillis Judith
Published: December 2020

To more comprehensively support clinical management of patients in our hospital, we redesigned the diagnostic Total Testing Process (TTP) from request to report. To that end, clinical needs were identified and a vision on Total Laboratory Automation (TLA) of the TTP was developed. The Delft Systems Engineering Approach was used for mapping a desirable laboratory testing process. The desirable “To Be” diagnostic process was tendered and the translation of a functional design into a specific TLA-configuration – compliant with the vision and the predefined functional design – was accomplished using a competitive dialogue tender variant (based on art. 29 of the EU guideline 2014/24). Realization of this high-end TLA-solution enabled a high-quality testing process with numerous improvements such as clear and supportive digital request forms, specimen consolidation, track and trace and non-conformity registration at the specimen level, better blood management (∼40% less blood sampled), lean and in line processing with increased productivity (42% rise in test productivity per capita), and guaranteed total turn-around-times of medical tests (95% of TLA-rooted in line tests are reported <120 min). The approach taken for improving the brain-to-brain loop of medical testing, as fundament for better diagnostic stewardship, is explained.
Investigations of metallic elements and phenolics in Chinese medicinal plants
Authors: Konieczynski Pawel , Zarkov Aleksej , Viapiana Agnieszka , Kaszuba Mateusz , Bielski Lukasz , Wesolowski Marek
Published: December 2020

Traditional Chinese Medicines (TCM) can be contaminated with heavy metals, and therefore, the aim of this study is to analyze the Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Cd, Pb, Cr, and phenolic compounds contents in TCM plants used against civilization diseases. Metals were determined by flame atomic absorption spectroscopy (FAAS) for Fe, Mn, Zn, and Cu and inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) for Pb, Cd, and Cr. The total phenolic, flavonoid, and phenolic acid contents were determined by HPLC and UV/vis spectrometry. The contents of the studied elements were highest in Radix Rehmanniae, whereas lowest in Fructus Lycii and Fructus Crataegi. The studied metals were assayed in the decreasing order: Fe, Zn, Mn, Cu, Cr, Pb, and Cd. Radix Rehmanniae Glutinosae Preparata showed the lowest phenolic composition, while Fructus Lycii showed the richest content. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that the contents of ferulic acid, caffeic acid, rutin, and Cu, Cr, and Cd were among the most important factors responsible for the differentiation between the investigated medicinal plants. Cluster analysis (CA) showed that the TCM samples originating from the same botanical plant species were often found in the same cluster, which confirms the similar level of studied elements determined within the samples.
Enhancing tribo-mechanical properties and thermal stability of nylon 6 by hexagonal boron nitride fillers
Authors: Randhawa Kawaljit Singh , Patel Ashwin D.
Published: December 2020

Mechanical and tribological properties of nylon 6 and nylon 6/h-BN composites were investigated in this paper. Tensile, hardness, and impact tests were carried out for mechanical properties, while wear tests on pin-on-disc were carried out for tribological properties identification. Abrasion resistance tests were carried out on the TABER apparatus to analyze the abrasive wear of materials. SEM, XRD, and TGA were used to characterize the materials and to understand the distinctive features of nylon 6 and nylon 6/h-BN composites. Experimental results show that the mechanical properties and tribological behavior of nylon 6 got enhanced by the h-BN fillers. Tensile strength and modulus of elasticity were enhanced by 15.2% and 64.5%, respectively, while hardness and impact strength were enhanced by 3.45% and 6%, respectively. COF and wear rate of composites decreased up to 4 wt% filler reinforcement due to smooth transfer film formation. Coefficient of friction (COF) and wear resistance were improved by 10–15% and 8–10%, respectively, at various testing conditions. h-BN reinforcement in the matrix resulted in more weight loss due to abrasion and it reduced the abrasion resistance of nylon 6 by 5.5 times. Thermal stability was slightly increased, and crystallinity was little affected by the h-BN fillers.
Microstructure of metatitanic acid and its transformation to rutile titanium dioxide
Authors: Wu Xiaoping , Liu Yong
Published: December 2020

The microstructure of metatitanic acid and its transformations to titanium dioxide during calcination have been investigated previously. However, the detailed microstructure of metatitanic acid has not been elucidated. Herein, we report the high-resolution scanning electron microscopy and X-ray powder diffraction determinations of the microstructure of metatitanic acid and its transformation to titanium dioxide during calcination. It is the first time that the detailed microstructure of metatitanic acid and its transformation to rutile titanium dioxide during calcination have been observed and elucidated. A mechanism of the transformation from metatitanic acid to crystalline titanium dioxide during calcination is described. The basic building blocks of metatitanic acid are the ultrafine crystals with an averaged diameter of a few nanometres, and these ultrafine crystals aggregate to form the porous primary particles. The primary particles further agglomerate to form the porous secondary particle. During the calcination, metatitanic acid undergoes size enlargement of ultrafine crystals, anatase–rutile transformation, merge of primary particles, and the crystal growth of titanium dioxide.
Vom „Abendland“ in „den Westen“? Die Liberalisierung der Bundesrepublik in der Nachkriegszeit in begriffsgeschichtlicher Sicht
Authors: Trautsch Jasper M.
Published: December 2020

In den ideengeschichtlichen Forschungen zur frühen Bundesrepublik wird gemeinhin angenommen, dass sich die vor allem in konservativen Kreisen weiterhin vorhandenen demokratie- und amerikafeindlichen Einstellungen nach 1945 wie zuvor am „Abendland“ festmachten und die Ablösung dieses Begriffes durch den des Westens in den 1960er Jahren die fortschreitende Liberalisierung Westdeutschlands widerspiegelte. In dieser begriffsgeschichtlichen Studie wird dagegen argumentiert, dass im Gebrauch der Christdemokraten das „Abendland“ in der Nachkriegszeit einen semantischen Wandel erfuhr, indem es zunehmend mit der demokratischen Staatsform assoziiert und als transatlantische Gemeinschaft umgedeutet wurde. Auf diese Weise wurde das „Abendland“ zu einem Synonym statt zu einem Konkurrenzbegriff des Westens. Die Bedeutung dieser semantischen Innovation besteht nicht nur darin, dass es historisch unzutreffend ist, vom Gebrauch des Abendlandbegriffs in der Nachkriegszeit auf eine antidemokratische und antiamerikanische Einstellung zu schließen, sondern auch darin, dass es gerade die Demokratisierung und Amerikanisierung des Abendlandbegriffs in den späten 1940ern und den 1950ern – und nicht die spätere Übernahme des Begriffs des Westens – war, die es den konservativen Gesellschaftsschichten in Westdeutschland ermöglichte, sich liberale Werte zu eigen zu machen. Denn in dem Moment, in dem sie sich als Teil einer demokratisch verfassten transatlantischen Gemeinschaft verstanden, mussten sie sich auch den ideologischen Einflüssen aus ihren westlichen Nachbarstaaten und vor allem aus den USA öffnen.
A kernel- and optimal transport- based test of independence between covariates and right-censored lifetimes
Authors: Rindt David , Sejdinovic Dino , Steinsaltz David
Published: December 2020

We propose a nonparametric test of independence, termed optHSIC, between a covariate and a right-censored lifetime. Because the presence of censoring creates a challenge in applying the standard permutation-based testing approaches, we use optimal transport to transform the censored dataset into an uncensored one, while preserving the relevant dependencies. We then apply a permutation test using the kernel-based dependence measure as a statistic to the transformed dataset. The type 1 error is proven to be correct in the case where censoring is independent of the covariate. Experiments indicate that optHSIC has power against a much wider class of alternatives than Cox proportional hazards regression and that it has the correct type 1 control even in the challenging cases where censoring strongly depends on the covariate.
On the holomorph of finite semisimple groups
Authors: Blyth Russell D. , Fumagalli Francesco
Published: December 2020

Given a finite nonabelian semisimple group G, we describe those groups that have the same holomorph as G, that is, those regular subgroups

N
≃
G

{N\simeq G}

of

S
⁢

(
G
)

{S(G)}

, the group of permutations on the set G, such that

N

S
⁢

(
G
)

⁢

(
N
)

=

N

S
⁢

(
G
)

⁢

(

ρ
⁢

(
G
)

)

{N_{S(G)}(N)=N_{S(G)}(\rho(G))}

, where ρ is the right regular representation of G.