bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The cos 2ϕ azimuthal asymmetry in ρ0 meson production in ultraperipheral heavy ion collisions
Authors: Xing Hongxi , Zhang Cheng , Zhou Jian , Zhou Ya-Jin
Published: October 2020

Abstract

We present a detailed study of vector meson photoproduction in ultraperipheral heavy ion collisions (UPCs). Using the dipole model, we develop a framework for the joint impact parameter and transverse momentum dependent cross sections. We compute the unpolarized cross section and cos 2ϕ azimuthal angular correlation for ρ0 photoproduction with ϕ defined as the angle between the ρ0’s transverse momentum and its decay product pion meson’s transverse momentum. Our result on unpolarized coherent differential cross section gives excellent description to the STAR experimental data. A first compari- son between theoretical calculation and experimental measurement on the cos 2ϕ azimuthal asymmetry, which results from the linearly polarized photons, is performed and reasonable agreement is reached. We find out the characteristic diffractive patterns at both RHIC and LHC energies and predict the impact parameter dependent cos 2ϕ azimuthal asymmetries for ρ0 photoproduction by considering UPCs and peripheral collisions. The future experimental measurements at RHIC and LHC relevant to our calculations will provide a tool to rigorously investigate the coherent and incoherent production of vector meson in UPCs, as well as to probe the nuclear structure in heavy ion collisions.
Does the round sphere maximize the free energy of (2+1)-dimensional QFTs?
Authors: Fischetti Sebastian , Wallis Lucas , Wiseman Toby
Published: October 2020

Abstract

We examine the renormalized free energy of the free Dirac fermion and the free scalar on a (2+1)-dimensional geometry ℝ × Σ, with Σ having spherical topology and prescribed area. Using heat kernel methods, we perturbatively compute this energy when Σ is a small deformation of the round sphere, finding that at any temperature the round sphere is a local maximum. At low temperature the free energy difference is due to the Casimir effect. We then numerically compute this free energy for a class of large axisymmetric deformations, providing evidence that the round sphere globally maximizes it, and we show that the free energy difference relative to the round sphere is unbounded below as the geometry on Σ becomes singular. Both our perturbative and numerical results in fact stem from the stronger finding that the difference between the heat kernels of the round sphere and a deformed sphere always appears to have definite sign. We investigate the relevance of our results to physical systems like monolayer graphene consisting of a membrane supporting relativistic QFT degrees of freedom.
Anti-Müllerian hormone levels and risk of type 2 diabetes in women
Authors: Verdiesen Renée M. G. , Onland-Moret N. Charlotte , van Gils Carla H. , Stellato Rebecca K. , Spijkerman Annemieke M. W. , Picavet H. Susan J. , Broekmans Frank J. M. , Verschuren W. M. Monique , van der Schouw Yvonne T.
Published: October 2020

Aims/hypothesis

Given its role in ovarian follicle development, circulating anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is considered to be a marker of reproductive ageing. Although accelerated reproductive ageing has been associated with a higher risk of type 2 diabetes, research on the relationship between AMH and type 2 diabetes risk is scarce. Therefore, we aimed to investigate whether age-specific AMH levels and age-related AMH trajectories are associated with type 2 diabetes risk in women.

Methods

We measured AMH in repeated plasma samples from 3293 female participants (12,460 samples in total), aged 20–59 years at recruitment, from the Doetinchem Cohort Study, a longitudinal study with follow-up visits every 5 years. We calculated age-specific AMH tertiles at baseline to account for the strong AMH–age correlation. Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for confounders were used to assess the association between baseline age-specific AMH tertiles and incident type 2 diabetes. We applied linear mixed models to compare age-related AMH trajectories for women who developed type 2 diabetes with trajectories for women who did not develop diabetes.

Results

During a median follow-up of 20 years, 163 women developed type 2 diabetes. Lower baseline age-specific AMH levels were associated with a higher type 2 diabetes risk (HRT2vsT3 1.24 [95% CI 0.81, 1.92]; HRT1vsT3 1.62 [95% CI 1.06, 2.48]; ptrend = 0.02). These findings seem to be supported by predicted AMH trajectories, which suggested that plasma AMH levels were lower at younger ages in women who developed type 2 diabetes compared with women who did not. The trajectories also suggested that AMH levels declined at a slower rate in women who developed type 2 diabetes, although differences in trajectories were not statistically significant.

Conclusions/interpretation

We observed that lower age-specific AMH levels were associated with a higher risk of type 2 diabetes in women. Longitudinal analyses did not show clear evidence of differing AMH trajectories between women who developed type 2 diabetes compared with women who did not, possibly because these analyses were underpowered. Further research is needed to investigate whether AMH is part of the biological mechanism explaining the association between reproductive ageing and type 2 diabetes.
Super Quantum Airy Structures
Authors: Bouchard Vincent , Ciosmak Paweł , Hadasz Leszek , Osuga Kento , Ruba Błażej , Sułkowski Piotr
Published: October 2020

We introduce super quantum Airy structures, which provide a supersymmetric generalization of quantum Airy structures. We prove that to a given super quantum Airy structure one can assign a unique set of free energies, which satisfy a supersymmetric generalization of the topological recursion. We reveal and discuss various properties of these supersymmetric structures, in particular their gauge transformations, classical limit, peculiar role of fermionic variables, and graphical representation of recursion relations. Furthermore, we present various examples of super quantum Airy structures, both finite-dimensional—which include well known superalgebras and super Frobenius algebras, and whose classification scheme we also discuss—as well as infinite-dimensional, that arise in the realm of vertex operator super algebras.
Non-informative vision improves spatial tactile discrimination on the shoulder but does not influence detection sensitivity
Authors: Leo Fabrizio , Nataletti Sara , Brayda Luca
Published: October 2020

Vision of the body has been reported to improve tactile acuity even when vision is not informative about the actual tactile stimulation. However, it is currently unclear whether this effect is limited to body parts such as hand, forearm or foot that can be normally viewed, or it also generalizes to body locations, such as the shoulder, that are rarely before our own eyes. In this study, subjects consecutively performed a detection threshold task and a numerosity judgment task of tactile stimuli on the shoulder. Meanwhile, they watched either a real-time video showing their shoulder or simply a fixation cross as control condition. We show that non-informative vision improves tactile numerosity judgment which might involve tactile acuity, but not tactile sensitivity. Furthermore, the improvement in tactile accuracy modulated by vision seems to be due to an enhanced ability in discriminating the number of adjacent active electrodes. These results are consistent with the view that bimodal visuotactile neurons sharp tactile receptive fields in an early somatosensory map, probably via top-down modulation of lateral inhibition.
Advanced rehabilitation technology in orthopaedics—a narrative review
Authors: Kuroda Yuichi , Young Matthew , Shoman Haitham , Punnoose Anuj , Norrish Alan R. , Khanduja Vikas
Published: October 2020

Introduction

As the demand for rehabilitation in orthopaedics increases, so too has the development in advanced rehabilitation technology. However, to date, there are no review papers outlining the broad scope of advanced rehabilitation technology used within the orthopaedic population. The aim of this study is to identify, describe and summarise the evidence for efficacy for all advanced rehabilitation technologies applicable to orthopaedic practice.

Methods

The relevant literature describing the use of advanced rehabilitation technology in orthopaedics was identified from appropriate electronic databases (PubMed and EMBASE) and a narrative review undertaken.

Results

Advanced rehabilitation technologies were classified into two groups: hospital-based and home-based rehabilitation. In the hospital-based technology group, we describe the use of continuous passive motion and robotic devices (after spinal cord injury) and their effect on improving clinical outcomes. We also report on the use of electromagnetic sensor technology for measuring kinematics of upper and lower limbs during rehabilitation. In the home-based technology group, we describe the use of inertial sensors, smartphones, software applications and commercial game hardware that are relatively inexpensive, user-friendly and widely available. We outline the evidence for videoconferencing for promoting knowledge and motivation for rehabilitation as well as the emerging role of virtual reality.

Conclusions

The use of advanced rehabilitation technology in orthopaedics is promising and evidence for its efficacy is generally supportive.
Incidence, risk factors, and prognostic indicators of symptomatic air embolism after percutaneous transthoracic lung biopsy: a systematic review and pooled analysis
Authors: Lee Jong Hyuk , Yoon Soon Ho , Hong Hyunsook , Rho Ji Young , Goo Jin Mo
Published: October 2020

Objectives

To determine the incidence, risk factors, and prognostic indicators of symptomatic air embolism after percutaneous transthoracic lung biopsy (PTLB) by conducting a systematic review and pooled analysis.

Methods

We searched the EMBASE and OVID-MEDLINE databases to identify studies that dealt with air embolism after PTLB and had extractable outcomes. The incidence of air embolism was pooled using a random effects model, and the causes of heterogeneity were investigated. To analyze risk factors for symptomatic embolism and unfavorable outcomes, multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed.

Results

The pooled incidence of symptomatic air embolism after PTLB was 0.08% (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.048–0.128%;I2 = 45%). In the subgroup analysis and meta-regression, guidance modality and study size were found to explain the heterogeneity. Of the patients with symptomatic air embolism, 32.7% had unfavorable outcomes. The presence of an underlying disease (odds ratio [OR], 5.939; 95% CI, 1.029–34.279;p = 0.046), the use of a ≥ 19-gauge needle (OR, 10.046; 95% CI, 1.103–91.469;p = 0.041), and coronary or intracranial air embolism (OR, 19.871; 95% CI, 2.725–14.925;p = 0.003) were independent risk factors for symptomatic embolism. Unfavorable outcomes were independently associated with the use of aspiration biopsy rather than core biopsy (OR, 3.302; 95% CI, 1.149–9.492;p = 0.027) and location of the air embolism in the coronary arteries or intracranial spaces (OR = 5.173; 95% CI = 1.309–20.447;p = 0.019).

Conclusion

The pooled incidence of symptomatic air embolism after PTLB was 0.08%, and one-third of cases had sequelae or died. Identifying whether coronary or intracranial emboli exist is crucial in suspected cases of air embolism after PTLB.

Key Points

•The pooled incidence of symptomatic air embolism after percutaneous transthoracic lung biopsy was 0.08%, and one-third of patients with symptomatic air embolism had sequelae or died.

•The risk factors for symptomatic air embolism were the presence of an underlying disease, the use of a ≥ 19-gauge needle, and coronary or intracranial air embolism.

•Sequelae and death in patients with symptomatic air embolism were associated with the use of aspiration biopsy and coronary or intracranial locations of the air embolism.
Flexible endoscopy is enough diagnostic prior to loop ileostomy reversal
Authors: Lindner S. , von Rudno K. , Gawlitza J. , Hardt J. , Sandra-Petrescu F. , Seyfried S. , Kienle P. , Reissfelder C. , Bogner A. , Herrle F.
Published: October 2020

Purpose

This study investigates whether contrast enema (CE) and flexible endoscopy (FE) should be performed routinely after low anterior resection (LAR) before ileostomy reversal. Additionally, the impact of previous anastomotic leakage (AL) on diagnostic test accuracy (DTA) was assessed.

Methods

This is a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected tertiary care data of two centers. Consecutive rectal cancer patients undergoing LAR with loop ileostomy formation were included. Before ileostomy reversal, all patients were assessed by CE and FE. DTA of FE and CE for asymptomatic AL in patients who had previously suffered from clinically relevant AL (group 1) compared with those without apparent AL after LAR (group 0) were assessed separately.

Results

Two hundred ninety-three patients were included in the analysis, 86 in group 1 and 207 in group 0. Overall sensitivity for detection of asymptomatic AL was 76% (FE) and 60% (CE). Specificity was 100% for both tests. DTA of FE was equal or superior to CE in all subgroups. Prevalence of asymptomatic AL at the time of testing was 1.4% in group 0 and 25.6% in group 1.

Conclusion

Flexible endoscopy is the more accurate diagnostic test for the detection of asymptomatic anastomotic leaks prior to ileostomy reversal. Contrast enema showed no gain of information. In the group without complications after the initial rectal resection, 104 must be tested to find one leak prior to reversal. In those patients, routine diagnostic testing additional to digital rectal examination may be questioned.
An overview of viral infections of the nervous system in the immunosuppressed
Authors: Kennedy Peter G. E.
Published: October 2020

Several viruses have the capacity to cause serious infections of the nervous system in patients who are immunosuppressed. Individuals may be immunosuppressed because of primary inherited immunodeficiency, secondary immunodeficiency due to particular diseases such as malignancy, administration of immunosuppressant drugs or organ or bone marrow transplantation. The viruses capable of such opportunistic infection of the nervous system include herpes simplex virus (HSV), Varicella-Zoster virus (VZV), Cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein –Barr virus (EBV), Human Herpes virus type 6 (HHV-6), JC virus (JCV), enterovirus, measles virus and Covid-19. In most cases it seems likely that immunological defence mechanisms in the immunosuppressed are deficient which creates a suitable environment for certain viruses to become opportunistic in the nervous and other systems. Further research is required both to understand these opportunistic mechanisms in more detail and also to determine how many virus infections are modified by specific inborn errors of immunological responses.
Short-term choroidal vascular changes after aflibercept therapy for neovascular age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Pellegrini Marco , Bernabei Federico , Mercanti Andrea , Sebastiani Stefano , Peiretti Enrico , Iovino Claudio , Casini Giamberto , Loiudice Pasquale , Scorcia Vincenzo , Giannaccare Giuseppe
Published: October 2020

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to evaluate choroidal vascular changes in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) treated with aflibercept injection over a 3-month period.

Methods

Enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography scans of 60 eyes with treatment-naïve nAMD and 60 unaffected fellow eyes were retrospectively analyzed. Data was collected at baseline and after 3 monthly intravitreal injections of aflibercept. The ImageJ software was used to binarize OCT scans and measure total choroid area (TCA), luminal area (LA), and stromal area (SA). Choroidal vascularity index (CVI) was defined as the ratio of LA to TCA.

Results

After treatment, subfoveal choroidal thickness (CT) in nAMD eyes significantly decreased from 210. 6 ± 61.6 to 194.6 ± 58.7 μm (P < 0.001), TCA from 1.620 ± 0.502 to 1.500 ± 0.451 mm2 (P < 0.001), LA from 1.075 ± 0.335 to 0.985 ± 0.307 mm2 (P < 0.001), SA from 0.545 ± 0.176 to 0.516 ± 0.153 mm2 (P = 0.005), and CVI from 66.36 ± 2.89 to 65.46 ± 2.87% (P = 0.009). The decrease of CVI after treatment was significantly correlated with baseline CVI (Rs = 0.466, P < 0.001), but not with the change in BCVA and presence of dry macula after treatment (always P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Choroidal thickness and vascularity significantly decreased after treatment with aflibercept in nAMD eyes. Besides the pharmacologic effect on the neovascular lesion, aflibercept may induce vascular changes also on the underlying choroid.
Suspected autochthonous Thelazia callipaeda infection in a dog in northern Germany
Authors: Lebedewa Sophia L. , Tkocz Kevin , Clausen Peter-Henning , Nijhof Ard M.
Published: October 2020

A 12-year old Elo dog was presented with recurring symptoms of conjunctivitis in November 2019. A single whitish nematode was found upon inspection of the eye and identified as a Thelazia callipaeda male. The morphological identification of the eye worm was supported by analysis of a partial cytochrome c oxidase I (cox1) gene sequence. The dog lived in Lower Saxony, northwestern Germany, and had not visited regions known to be endemic for T. callipaeda. This suggests that a local transmission cycle of this zoonotic nematode may exist in Germany.
Measurement of outflow resistance imposed by magnetic sphincter augmentation: defining normal values and clinical implication
Authors: Ayazi Shahin , Grubic Andrew D. , Zheng Ping , Zaidi Ali H. , Schwameis Katrin , Alleyne Adam C. , Myers Brittney M. , Omstead Ashten N. , Jobe Blair A.
Published: October 2020

Introduction

No manometric criteria have been defined to select patients for magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA). The first step to establish such criteria is to measure the outflow resistance at esophagogastric junction (EGJ) imposed by MSA. This resistance needs to be overcome by the esophageal contraction in order for the esophagus to empty and to avoid postoperative dysphagia. This study was designed to measure the outflow resistance caused by MSA in patients free of postoperative dysphagia.

Methods

Records of the patients who underwent MSA in our institution were reviewed. A group of MSA patients with excellent functional outcome, who were free of clinically significant postoperative dysphagia, were selected. These patients then underwent high-resolution impedance manometry (HRIM) at a target date of 1 year after surgery. The outflow resistance was measured by the esophageal intrabolus pressure (iBP) recorded 2 cm proximal to the lower esophageal sphincter (LES).

Results

The study population consisted of 43 patients. HRIM was performed at mean of 20.4 (10.4) months after surgery. The mean (SD) amplitude of the iBP was 13.5 (4.3) before surgery and increased to 19.1 (5.6) after MSA (p < 0.0001). Patients with a smaller size LINX device (≤ 14 beads) had a similar iBP when compared to those with a larger device (> 15 beads) [19.7 (4.5) vs. 18.4 (5.9), p = 0.35]. There was a significant correlation between the iBP and % incomplete bolus clearance [Spearman R: 0.44 (95% CI 0.15–0.66), p = 0.0032]. The 95th percentile value for iBP after MSA was 30.4 mmHg.

Conclusion

The EGJ outflow resistance measured by iBP is increased after MSA. The upper limit of normal for iBP is 30 mmHg in this cohort of patients who were free of dysphagia after MSA. This degree of resistance needs to be overcome by distal esophageal contraction and will likely be requisite to prevent persistent postoperative dysphagia.
Artificial intelligence facilitates decision-making in the treatment of lumbar disc herniations
Authors: Wirries André , Geiger Florian , Hammad Ahmed , Oberkircher Ludwig , Blümcke Ingmar , Jabari Samir
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Apart from patients with severe neurological deficits, it is not clear whether surgical or conservative treatment of lumbar disc herniations is superior for the individual patient. We investigated whether deep learning techniques can predict the outcome of patients with lumbar disc herniation after 6 months of treatment.

Methods

The data of 60 patients were used to train and test a deep learning algorithm with the aim to achieve an accurate prediction of the ODI 6 months after surgery or the start of conservative therapy. We developed an algorithm that predicts the ODI of 6 randomly selected test patients in tenfold cross-validation.

Results

A 100% accurate prediction of an ODI range could be achieved by dividing the ODI scale into 12% sections. A maximum absolute difference of only 3.4% between individually predicted and actual ODI after 6 months of a given therapy was achieved with our most powerful model. The application of artificial intelligence as shown in this work also allowed to compare the actual patient values after 6 months with the prediction for the alternative therapy, showing deviations up to 18.8%.

Conclusion

Deep learning in the supervised form applied here can identify patients at an early stage who would benefit from conservative therapy, and on the contrary avoid painful and unnecessary delays for patients who would profit from surgical therapy. In addition, this approach can be used in many other areas of medicine as an effective tool for decision-making when choosing between opposing treatment options, despite small patient groups.
Sensitivity of Canopy Phenology to Local Urban Environmental Characteristics in a Tropical City
Authors: Kabano Peter , Harris Angela , Lindley Sarah
Published: October 2020

Canopy phenology is sensitive to variability in local environmental settings. In temperate climates, urban phenological processes and their determinants are relatively well understood. Equivalent understanding of processes in tropical urban settings is, however, less resolved. In this paper, we explore the influence of local urban environmental characteristics (that is, degree of urbanization, land cover and urban climate) on canopy phenology of two deciduous tree species (Jacaranda mimosifolia, n = 48, and Tabebuia rosea, n = 24) in a tropical city (Kampala, Uganda). Our study design involved ground monitoring and field sampling in 2017, with a focus on the dry season. We found that both species experienced significantly higher rates of canopy cover decline in heavily built-up neighborhoods (p < 0.05 for both species). Moreover, Jacaranda was more sensitive to differences in the degree of urbanization than Tabebuia, both in terms of total percentage tree canopy cover (p < 0.01) and net leaf loss (p < 0.05). Total percentage tree canopy cover for Jacaranda declined with increasing proportion of impervious cover (that is, roads and paved cover) and was positively related to relative humidity (p < 0.01), a variable correlated with soil moisture. Net leaf loss in Jacaranda increased with the decreasing proportion of pervious land cover and as nighttime air temperature increased (p < 0.01). In contrast, land cover and urban climate had no significant influence on either measure of phenological traits for Tabebuia. These results provide new evidence of the effect of urbanization on canopy phenology of different tree species in the tropics. Such knowledge offers new insights into the spatial and temporal differences in the physiological functional traits of trees and also serves as a proxy for possible species responses under future climate change.
CACNA1B gene variants in adult-onset isolated focal dystonia
Authors: Cocoș Relu , Raicu Florina , Băjenaru Ovidiu Lucian , Olaru Iulia , Dumitrescu Laura , Popescu Bogdan Ovidiu
Published: October 2020

Background

Isolated focal dystonia (IFD) is a heterogeneous group of potentially invalidating movement disorders. The etiopathogenesis is complex, both genetic and environmental factors playing a role, but remains elusive. The CACNA1B gene codes for the N-type neuronal voltage-gated calcium channels CaV2.2, which may play a role in the development of some IFD.

Methods

We analyzed samples from the GENDYS cohort for mutations in CACNA1B gene, using targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS).

Results

The GENDYS cohort consists of 120 people with adult-onset IFD (cervical dystonia 47.5%, blepharospasm 47.2%, others 8.3%). Of these, 35% had subsequent topographical extension. Average age at onset was 42 and average disease durations 8 years. Targeted NGS revealed a novel frameshift mutation c.2291AGG > A, in exon 19, and a previously reported variant, c.6834T > G, in exon 47.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that disease-causing mutations in CACNA1B gene may be involved in the development of some adult-onset IFD. To our knowledge, this is the first study that identified a disease-causing CACNA1B gene mutation in association with adult-onset IFD.
Why Dutch officials take bribes: a toxic mix of factors
Authors: Gorsira Madelijne , Huisman Wim , Denkers Adriaan , Steg Linda
Published: October 2020

The aim of this study was to gain an in-depth understanding of the factors that underlie public officials’ engagement in corruption. Given the significant public interest, we gained permission from the Dutch Ministry of Justice to analyze multiple confidential criminal files of cases in which Dutch public officials took bribes from private companies. Extending previous research, we analyzed three types of factors, individual factors, organizational factors, and factors related to the relationships between corrupt officials and their bribers. Moreover, for the first time, we considered the interplay between these three types of factors. The results suggest that public officials’ engagement in bribery is rooted in a combination of individual, organizational and relationship variables that influence and reinforce each other, creating a toxic mix. This implies that the battle against bribery can be fought on multiple fronts, whereby changing one critical factor may cause the mix to lose its toxicity.
Technology teacher’s perceptions of model functions in technology education
Authors: Citrohn Björn , Svensson Maria
Published: October 2020

In this study we investigate how 11 Swedish technology teachers perceive model functions in technology education. The main reason for investigating model functions in technology is an identified lack of knowledge about, and research studies into, a conscious use of models when teaching technology, even though models are part of technology education in many countries. In order to answer the research question of how technology teachers perceive model functions in technology education, we have used directed content analysis where Nia and de Vries (J Technol Des Educ 27:627–653, 2017) model functions constituted a framework. The teachers connect model functions to two teaching contexts: Design process and Explain and facilitate understanding of technological solutions. Model functions are understood as parts of the design process which relate to technology/engineering knowledge, a prescriptive way of understanding models. Models are also used to explain and clarify specific technological situations or functions when teaching technology closely related to a scientific, descriptive way of using models. Five of Nia and de Vries model functions are identified in this empirical study. This strengthens the importance of addressing model functions in technological education.
An evaluation of selected chemical, biochemical, and biological parameters of soil enriched with vermicompost
Authors: Przemieniecki Sebastian Wojciech , Zapałowska Anita , Skwiercz Andrzej , Damszel Marta , Telesiński Arkadiusz , Sierota Zbigniew , Gorczyca Anna
Published: October 2020

The aim of this study was to assess the changes in chemical and microbial properties and enzymatic activity of soil enriched with vermicompost derived from household waste. The vermicompost was tested in the rhizosphere of Larix decidua seedlings cultivated in 10-L pots in: (i) nursery soil (as the control), (ii) soil with 10% v/v vermicompost, and (iii) with 20% v/v vermicompost. The impact of vermicompost was assessed in terms of soil C/N ratio; bacterial, fungal, and nematode counts; and enzymatic activity. It was found that vermicompost increased the C/N ratio from 21 to 32, as well as the content of nitrate from 78 to 134 mg kg−1, of ammonium from 14 to 139 mg kg−1, of phosphorus from 92 to 521 mg kg−1, and of potassium from 142 to 1912 mg kg−1, compared with the control soil. The abundance of beneficial bacteria was increased (from 8.61 × 107 to 37.9 × 107), along with decreases in microbiological ratios of fungi and bacteria (e.g. fungi/Bacillus from 0.18818 to 0.00425). A significant 2- to 4-fold increase was observed compared with the control in the number of beneficial nematodes belonging to bacterivorous, fungivorous, and predatory groups with no change in the abundance of plant-parasitic nematodes. Addition of vermicompost brought about a change in soil enzyme activity. Vermicompost reduced the activity of alkaline phosphatase only. Both doses of vermicompost led to an increase in the activity of acid phosphatase, inorganic pyrophosphatase, dehydrogenases, β-glucosidase, and urease. Only the higher dose had an effect on increasing the activity of o-diphenol oxidase and proteases. No significant change was observed for nitrate reductase. Also, the presence of antibiotics produced by bacteria was detected depending on the dose of vermicompost, e.g. iturin (ituC) and bacillomycin (bmyB) were found in soil with a dose of 20% v/v vermicompost. Overall, vermicompost produced from household waste can be an excellent organic fertilizer for larch forest nurseries.
Do Animals Feel Pain in a Morally Relevant Sense?
Authors: Miller Calum
Published: October 2020

The thesis that animals feel a morally relevant kind of pain is an incredibly popular one, but explaining the evidence for this belief is surprisingly challenging. Michael Murray has defended neo-Cartesianism, the view that animals may lack the ability to feel pain in a morally relevant sense. In this paper, I present the reasons for doubting that animals feel morally relevant pain. I then respond to critics of Murray’s position, arguing that the evidence proposed more recently is still largely unpersuasive. I end by considering the implications for moral discourse and praxis.
Antidepressant prescriptions and associated factors in men with prostate cancer and their female partners
Authors: Hartung Tim J. , Moustsen Ida Rask , Larsen Signe Benzon , Wreford Andersen Elisabeth A. , Suppli Nis P. , Johansen Christoffer , Tjønneland Anne , Friberg Anne S. , Kjær Susanne K. , Brasso Klaus , Kessing Lars V. , Mehnert Anja , Dalton Susanne Oksbjerg
Published: October 2020

Purpose

To estimate the risk of first-time antidepressant prescriptions as a proxy for depression or anxiety and associated risk factors in patients with prostate cancer and their female partners.

Methods

We followed all men (n = 25,126) and their female cohabiting partners (n = 8785) without a history of cancer or antidepressants from the Danish Diet, Cancer and Health cohort from 1997 to 2014 or 2010, respectively. We estimated the cumulative incidence of first-time antidepressant prescriptions in men with prostate cancer compared with cancer-free men and their respective female partners, using the Danish National Prescription Registry. Sociodemographic, lifestyle-related, and clinical risk factors were assessed using Cox regression models.

Results

A total of 1828 men were diagnosed with prostate cancer of whom 15% received antidepressants. The unadjusted hazard ratio of antidepressant prescription was 2.18 (95%CI, 1.92, 2.48) for men with prostate cancer and 1.27 (95%CI, 0.87, 1.85) for their partners, compared with cancer-free men and their partners, respectively. After adjusting for sociodemographic, lifestyle-related, and comorbidity factors, this risk was 2-fold to 4-fold increased among patients, but not significantly increased among partners. Significant risk factors among patients were curative and palliative treatment (vs. active surveillance and watchful waiting), nonlocalized disease, and short education.

Conclusions

Men with prostate cancer have a higher risk of receiving antidepressant medication than cancer-free men. Clinical characteristics can help clinicians in identifying patients at a high risk of depression or anxiety.

Implications for Cancer Survivors

Men with prostate cancer who experience symptoms of depression or anxiety should seek professional help early on. Patient education could aid in raising awareness and reducing the stigma associated with mental disorders.
Psychosis in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Ballard Clive , Kales Helen C. , Lyketsos Constantine , Aarsland Dag , Creese Byron , Mills Roger , Williams Hilde , Sweet Robert A.
Published: October 2020

Purpose of Review

To review the incidence, treatment and genetics of psychosis in people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

Recent Findings

Psychosis in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has an incidence of ~ 10% per year. There is limited evidence regarding psychological interventions. Pharmacological management has focused on atypical antipsychotics, balancing modest benefits with evidence of long-term harms. The 5HT2A inverse agonist pimavanserin appears to confer benefit in PD psychosis with initial evidence of benefit in AD. Cholinesterase inhibitors give modest benefits in DLB psychosis. The utility of muscarinic agonists, lithium, glutamatergic and noradrenergic modulators needs further study.

Recent work has confirmed the importance of psychosis in MCI as well as AD. The lack of evidence regarding psychological therapies is an urgent knowledge gap, but there is encouraging evidence for emerging pharmacological treatments. Genetics will provide an opportunity for precision medicine and new treatment targets.
Clinical laboratory validation of the MCL35 assay for molecular risk stratification of mantle cell lymphoma
Authors: Ramsower Colleen A. , Maguire Alanna , Robetorye Ryan S. , Feldman Andrew L. , Syrbu Sergei I. , Rosenthal Allison C. , Rimsza Lisa M.
Published: October 2020

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a clinically heterogeneous B cell malignancy for which a variety of prognostic factors have been proposed. Previously, a digital gene expression profiling “proliferation signature” capable of risk stratifying MCL was identified and subsequently developed into a multi-analyte prognostic assay, known as the “MCL35” assay. In this study, we sought to explore the performance characteristics of the MCL35 assay in a clinical laboratory and compare results with the Ki67 proliferation marker. The results describe the clinical validation of the MCL35 assay for molecular risk stratification of MCL including accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, use in acid-decalcified bone marrow core biopsies, fixatives, lower limit of RNA input, quality metrics, and other laboratory parameters. The resulting data indicate that this is a robust technique with outstanding reproducibility. Overall, the data support the concept of molecular signatures, as assessed with digital gene expression profiling, for improved standardization and reproducibility for proliferation assessment in MCL.
Comparison of emergency cholecystectomy and delayed cholecystectomy after percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage in patients with acute cholecystitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Huang Shao-Zhuo , Chen Hao-Qi , Liao Wei-Xin , Zhou Wen-Ying , Chen Jie-Huan , Li Wen-Chao , Zhou Hui , Liu Bo , Hu Kun-Peng
Published: October 2020

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy and percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage (PTGBD) are common treatments for patients with acute cholecystitis. However, the safety and efficacy of emergency laparoscopic cholecystectomy (ELC) and delayed laparoscopic cholecystectomy (DLC) after PTGBD in patients with acute cholecystitis remain unclear. The PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases were searched through October 2019. The quality of the included nonrandomized studies was assessed using the Methodological Index for Nonrandomized Studies (MINORS). The meta-analysis was performed using STATA version 14.2. A random-effects model was used to calculate the outcomes. A total of fifteen studies involving 1780 patients with acute cholecystitis were included in the meta-analysis. DLC after PTGBD was associated with a shorter operative time (SMD − 0.51; 95% CI − 0.89 to − 0.13;P = 0.008), a lower conversion rate (RR 0.43; 95% CI 0.26 to 0.69;P = 0.001), less intraoperative blood loss (SMD − 0.59; 95% CI − 0.96 to − 0.22;P = 0.002) and longer time of total hospital stay compared to ELC (SMD 0.91; 95% CI 0.57–1.24;P < 0.001). There was no difference in the postoperative complications (RR 0.68; 95% CI 0.48–0.97;P = 0.035), biliary leakage (RR 0.65; 95% CI 0.34–1.22;P = 0.175) or mortality (RR 1.04; 95% CI 0.39–2.80;P = 0.933). Compared to ELC, DLC after PTGBD had the advantages of a shorter operative time, a lower conversion rate and less intraoperative blood loss.
Important aspects in the assessment of bilingual children with suspected language impairment: The Vienna Model
Authors: Eisenwort Brigitte , Schmid Carolin , Tilis Maksim , Tsoy Dmitrij , Diendorfer-Radner Gabriela , Sedlaczek Anika , Klier Claudia
Published: October 2020

Background

Due to demographic changes over the last few decades, the number of multilingual children has grown rapidly. Many of them face problems in learning their second language. Similarities between linguistic manifestations of stages of second language acquisition and an impairment of language acquisition cause a diagnostic dilemma. The Vienna Model of language assessment in multilingual children will be presented.

Methods

A key feature of our procedure is the integration of medical students as native speakers in diagnosing acquisition of the first language. A case study of a boy with Russian as first language illustrates the procedure.

Results

The Vienna Model of language assessment in multilingual children offers the possibility to evaluate language competence in a differentiated manner with support of medical students as native speakers. Based on the bilingual assessment on different linguistic levels the diagnosis ICD-10 F80.0 is given. The subsequent short therapy showed an improvement regarding phonological competence.
Is Racial Discrimination Associated with Number of Missing Teeth Among American Adults?
Authors: Muralikrishnan Malini , Sabbah Wael
Published: October 2020

Objective

The objectives of this study are to assess the association of racial discrimination with tooth loss among American adults and whether this relationship, if existed, explains ethnic differences in tooth loss.

Methods

Data is from the Behavioural Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) 2014, a cross-sectional survey of a nationally representative sample of American adults. The survey included data on sociodemographic characteristics, behaviour, health insurance and number of missing teeth. The survey also included questions on whether a person was treated differently because of his/her race. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to assess the relationship between tooth loss and indicators of discrimination. We also examined the relation between ethnicity and indicators of discrimination.

Results

The analysis included 4858 participants aged 18 to 44 years. Tooth loss (> one tooth) was reported by 26% of participants. Among those reporting discrimination at healthcare facility, there was 141% increase in tooth loss compared to those not reporting discrimination. Discrimination at work and emotional impact of discrimination were both significantly associated with tooth loss in the partially adjusted models. Accounting for discrimination slightly attenuated ethnic differences in too loss. Black Americans had significantly higher odds for reporting all types of discrimination used here.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated a potential role for discrimination in tooth loss among American adults. Discrimination could also explain part of ethnic inequalities in oral health.
Detecting and prosecuting contract cheating with evidence – a “Doping Test” approach
Authors: Alin Pauli
Published: October 2020

Contract cheating – outsourcing student assignments for a fee – presents a growing threat to the integrity of higher education. As contract cheating is based on students purchasing assignments that are original (albeit not created by the student), traditional plagiarism detection tools remain insufficient to detect contract cheating. Part of the problem is that proving contract cheating is difficult. As a result, instructors may find it hard to prosecute students (i.e. put them through university academic dishonesty proceedings). To help address the problem, this conceptual paper builds upon extant scholarship on contract cheating and argues that a novel evidence-based approach is needed. Such an approach should allow instructors to detect and prosecute cases of contract cheating effectively and efficiently. The paper then presents an outline of such an approach and calls it the “Doping Test” approach as it mimics some aspects of doping testing in professional sport.
Virtue vs. virtue ethics
Authors: Halbig Christoph
Published: October 2020

The present article sets out to defend the thesis that among the more or less familiar enemies or challenges an adequate theory of virtue has to cope with is another, less obvious one – virtue ethics itself. The project of establishing virtue ethics as a third paradigm of normative ethics at eye level with consequentialism and deontological approaches to ethics threatens to distort not just our ethical thinking but the theory of virtue itself. A theory of virtue that is able to meet the demands of a full-blown virtue ethics necessarily has to face three fundamental dilemmas and thus seems to fail as an adequate theory of virtue. Andvice versa: An ontologically and normatively viable theory of virtue will be unsuited to provide a promising starting point for virtue ethics as the “third kid on the block” among the options of self-standing paradigms of normative ethics.
To Intervene or Not to Intervene? Democratic Constraints on Third-Party Support in Civil Wars
Authors: Sakstrup Casper , Tolstrup Jakob
Published: October 2020

Do democracies and autocracies differ when it comes to whether and how they provide third-party support to warring parties in civil wars? We argue that the political institutions of potential third-party states have important consequences for both questions. We emphasize how three particular institutional characteristics of democratic polities constrain decision-makers. This makes democracies less likely than autocracies to intervene in intra-state conflicts in general, and less likely to provide combat-intensive support specifically. An empirical analysis of incidents of third-party support to actors in civil wars in the period 1975–2009 corroborates the overall argument, although the results regarding support types are less clear. These results have important implications not only for our understanding of civil wars but also for how foreign policy decisions are made across different regime contexts.
A comparison of counselling self-efficacy among international and domestic counselling students
Authors: Haktanir Abdulkadir
Published: October 2020

This study examined counselling self-efficacy (CSE) between international counselling students and domestic counselling students. Data were collected from 179 participants. Analysis of the data suggested similar levels of CSE scores between domestic and international counselling students, and between school counselling students and other master’s-level counselling students. However, a significant difference was detected between master’s- and doctoral-level counselling students in terms of their CSE scores. Implications for counsellor educators, counselling supervisors and the counselling profession are provided.
Who Shot the Bullets? Exposure to Violence and Attitudes Toward Peace: Evidence from the 2016 Colombian Referendum
Authors: Kreiman Guillermo , Masullo Juan
Published: October 2020

Does exposure to violence affect attitudes toward peace? Civilians living in war zones see peace agreements as an opportunity to improve their security prospects. However, in multiparty conflicts, this does not automatically translate into support for peace. Support hinges on the interplay between which faction has victimized civilians in the past and which faction is sitting at the negotiation table. If civilians have been victimized by the group that is involved in the peace agreement, they will be likely to support peace. On the contrary, if they have been victimized by another faction, they will be likely to refrain from supporting peace if they believe that this can trigger retaliatory violence against them. This article explores this argument empirically in the context of the 2016 peace agreement between the Colombian government and the FARC; both quantitative and qualitative data yield support to the study’s theoretical expectations.
Third Rome or Potemkin village: Analyzing the Extent of Russia’s Power in Serbia, 2012–2019
Authors: Reid Ernest A
Published: October 2020

This past decade has seen the return of Russia into the public discourse. Moscow’s influence has been making a comeback across its old sphere of influence and in other parts of the world. In particular, there has been a lot of talk lately of Russian soft power spreading across the Balkan region, especially in Serbia. However, the concept of power can be rather ambiguous, and only a theoretically informed analysis based on empirical methods can lead to genuine conclusions. This article aims to apply an existing theoretical framework on power to the context of Russian influence in Serbia, in order to find out whether Moscow has any power over Belgrade and to gauge its extent.
Thrombocytopenia associated with transcatheter closure of giant patent ductus arteriosus
Authors: Liu Lei , Yue Peng , Zheng Xiaolan , Liao Hongyu , Li Jiawen , Hua Yimin , Li Yifei , Zhou Kaiyu
Published: October 2020

Introduction:

Thrombocytopenia occasionally occurs following the closure of some giant patent ductus arteriosus cases. Unfortunately, there is no associated research describing the associated risk factors for thrombocytopenia post-procedure.

Methods:

We reviewed all patients who received occluders with sizes ≥10/12 mm between January 2013 and June 2019. All the data and information on the characteristics of the patients and their follow-up were recorded. Univariate analysis, receiver operating characteristic curves, and linear regression were used to analyse the risk factors for thrombocytopenia and the predictors of hospitalisation stay.

Results:

Finally, 32 patients (17.5%) suffered from thrombocytopenia. Univariate analysis revealed the ratio between occluder disc size (mm) and body weight (kg) (1.71 ± 0.51 versus 1.35 ± 0.53) as an independent predictive factor for thrombocytopenia, and the area under the curve of the ratio of occluder size and body weight for predicting thrombocytopenia post-closure was 0.691 (95% confidence interval: 0.589–0.792, p = 0.001). The best cut-off value for the ratio of occluder size and weight was 1.5895, with a sensitivity and specificity of 68.8 and 66.9%, respectively. Each unit of the ratio of occluder size and body weight predicted an average hospitalisation stay of 2.856 days (95% confidence interval: 1.380–4.332). Treatment with medication did not reduce the hospitalisation stay or benefit platelet restoration.

Conclusion:

Once the ratio of occluder size and body weight is greater than 1.6, thrombocytopenia always exists. Every unit of the ratio of occluder size and body weight represents an additional 3 days of hospitalisation. Treatment does not reduce the duration of hospitalisation.