bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of neointimal coverage between ultrathin biodegradable polymer‐coated sirolimus‐eluting stents and durable polymer‐coated everolimus‐eluting stents: 6 months optical coherence tomography follow‐up from the TAXCO study
Authors: Abhyankar Atul , Abizaid Alexandre , Chamié Daniel , Rathod Mihir
Published: April 2020

Aim

The TAXCO study was designed to compare the degree of neointimal coverage and the prevalence of malapposition at 6 months subsequent to implantation of ultrathin biodegradable polymer‐coated sirolimus‐eluting stents (SES) and durable polymer‐coated everolimus‐eluting stents (EES) of thin strut thickness using optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Methods

The TAXCO study included a total of 42 patients who gave consent and underwent OCT examination between August 2017 and September 2017. Of 42, five patients' OCT examinations were of insufficient quality for quantitative analysis. Thus, the OCT analysis group consisted of 37 patients. Among them, 16 patients were treated with Xience (Abbott Vascular) and 21 with Tetriflex (Sahajanand Medical Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Surat, India), 6 (±1) months earlier at our institution. The OCT was performed using a C7 Dragonfly™ imaging catheter (St. Jude Medical Inc.). All OCT images were analyzed at an independent core laboratory (Cardiovascular Research Center, São Paulo, Brazil) by analysts who were blinded to patient and procedural information.

Results

A total of 763 crosssections (6,882 struts) were analyzed in Xience group, and 1,127 crosssections (9,968 struts) in Tetriflex group. At 6 months, on per‐lesion basis, no significant differences were observed between Xience group and Tetriflex group in mean percentage of uncovered struts (1.87 ± 3.86 vs. 2.42 ± 3.46, p = .137) and malapposed struts (0.05 ± 0.2 vs. 0.21 ± 0.69, p = .302). Strut‐level neointimal thickness also did not differ between Xience group and Tetriflex group (0.18 ± 0.12 vs. 0.14 ± 0.08 mm, p = .286).

Conclusion

This OCT study found no significant difference in strut coverage and neointimal thickness at 6 months after implantation of biodegradable polymer‐coated Tetriflex, when compared with durable polymer‐coated Xience.
Rapid, Heterogeneous Biocatalytic Hydrogenation and Deuteration in a Continuous Flow Reactor
Authors: Thompson Lisa A. , Rowbotham Jack S. , Nicholson Jake H. , Ramirez Miguel A. , Zor Ceren , Reeve Holly A. , Grobert Nicole , Vincent Kylie A.
Published: April 2020

The high selectivity of biocatalysis offers a valuable method for greener, more efficient production of enantiopure molecules. Operating immobilised enzymes in flow reactors can improve the productivity and handling of biocatalysts, and using H2 gas to drive redox enzymes bridges the gap to more traditional metal‐catalysed hydrogenation chemistry. Herein, we describe examples of H2‐driven heterogeneous biocatalysis in flow employing enzymes immobilised on a carbon nanotube column, achieving near‐quantitative conversion in <5 min residence time. Cofactor recycling is carried out in‐situ using H2 gas as a clean reductant, in a completely atom‐efficient process. The flow system is demonstrated for cofactor conversion, reductive amination and ketone reduction, and then extended to biocatalytic deuteration for the selective production of isotopically labelled chemicals.
Comparison of weed control technologies for protoporphyrinogen oxidase‐resistant Palmer amaranth
Authors: Houston Michael M. , Barber L. Tom , Norsworthy Jason K. , Roberts Trent L.
Published: April 2020

Confirmation of protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO)‐resistant Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri S.Watson) in 2015 limited weed control options for soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] producers. With already prevalent 5‐enolpyruvyl‐shikimate‐3‐phosphate synthase‐, acetolactate synthase‐, beta‐tubulin‐, and very‐long‐chain fatty acid‐resistant Palmer amaranth, there are few remaining effective pre‐emergence and postemergence herbicides labeled in soybean. The recent commercialization of soybean varieties resistant to dicamba and 2,4‐D give producers effective options to control multiresistant Palmer amaranth. To evaluate new and existing technologies and postemergence herbicide options, two experiments were conducted in 2017. These experiments were conducted in Marion and Crawfordsville, AR, two locations with confirmed PPO‐, 5‐enolpyruvyl‐shikimate‐3‐phosphate synthase‐, acetolactate synthase‐, beta‐tubulin‐, and very‐long‐chain fatty acid‐resistant Palmer amaranth. Each technology was tested over three pre‐emergence programs with distinct levels of control (74, 88, and 95%). At 28 d after pre‐emergence, the first postemergence applications were made when Palmer amaranth was approximately 4 in in height. Fourteen days later, visible weed control ratings showed that glufosinate‐, 2,4‐D‐, and dicamba‐resistant programs resulted in at least 95% control of Palmer amaranth across all pre‐emergence treatments, better than the 83% control provided by the glyphosate‐resistant soybean program. Visible control ratings taken 14 d after the second postemergence treatment showed separation between the glufosinate‐ (97%), 2,4‐D‐ (97%), and the dicamba‐resistant (96%) programs from the glyphosate‐resistant program (59%). The results indicate that effective pre‐emergence programs followed by postemergence programs containing glufosinate, 2,4‐D, or dicamba will provide extended control of PPO‐resistant Palmer amaranth but this may not be feasible in a glyphosate‐resistant soybean system.
Racial differences in HPV type 16 prevalence in women with ASCUS of the uterine cervix
Authors: Risley Carolann , Clarke Megan A. , Geisinger Kim R. , Stewart Mary W. , Zhang Lei , Hoover Kim W. , Hiser Laree M. , Owens Kenyata , DeMarco Maria , Schiffman Mark , Wentzensen Nicolas
Published: April 2020

Background

Understanding racial influences on human papillomavirus (HPV) distribution in women with atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS) cytology via partial genotyping in a statewide population can inform HPV‐based prevention efforts.

Methods

Women aged 21 to 65 years with any cytology result and partial HPV genotyping for ASCUS triage between January 1, 2014, and December 31, 2017, were included. All women attended a Mississippi State Department of Health clinic. Age, race, cytopathologic, and HPV data were extracted from the electronic health record and analyzed. Cytologic specimens were processed with ThinPrep and HPV testing with the Cobas 4800 assay. HPV genotypes were evaluated in hierarchical categories. Chi‐square tests and multinomial logistic regression models evaluated associations between race and type prevalence.

Results

There were 43,106 women who underwent cervical cancer screening with cytology and ASCUS triage. Of these, 34,363 (80.2%) had normal cytology, 4672 (10.9%) had ASCUS, 2683 (6.3%) had a low‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion, and 633 (1.5%) had a high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion. Blacks represented 69.3% of the sample and had a higher proportion of HPV‐positive ASCUS (6.5%) in comparison with whites (5.6%). Blacks had significantly decreased odds of HPV‐16 (odds ratio [OR], 0.66; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.6‐0.9; P = .002) and significantly increased odds for 12 other types (OR, 1.37; 95% CI, 1.2‐1.5; P < .0001) in comparison with whites.

Conclusions

In a diverse population, significant differences in HPV genotypes are shown by race. Importantly, blacks with ASCUS are less likely to be positive for HPV‐16 in comparison with whites. Ongoing work is evaluating the individual genotype prevalence and genotype‐specific risk of precancer by race.
Hypocalcaemic cardiomyopathy: a description of two cases and a literature review
Authors: Válek Martin , Roblová Lenka , Raška Ivan , Schaffelhoferová Dita , Paleček Tomáš
Published: April 2020

Hypocalcaemic cardiomyopathy is a rare form of dilated cardiomyopathy. The authors here present two cases in which symptomatic dilated cardiomyopathy was the result of severe hypocalcaemia. First, we report about a 26‐year‐old woman with primary hypoparathyroidism and then about a 74‐year‐old man with secondary hypoparathyroidism following a thyroidectomy. In both cases, the left ventricular systolic function improved after calcium supplementation. In the first case, a lack of compliance led to a repeated decrease of both serum calcium level and left ventricular systolic function. The authors also present a comprehensive summary of all cases of hypocalcaemic dilated cardiomyopathy that have been described in literature to date. The mean age of the affected patients was 48.3 years, of which 62% were female patients. The most common causes of hypocalcaemic cardiomyopathy are primary hypoparathyroidism (50%) and post‐thyroidectomy hypoparathyroidism (26%). In the post‐thyroidectomy subgroup, the median time for the development of hypocalcaemic cardiomyopathy is 10 years (range: 1.5 months to 36 years). Hypocalcaemic cardiomyopathy leads to heart failure with reduced ejection fraction in 87% of patients. Generally, the most common complications of hypoparathyroidism and/or hypocalcaemia are cerebral calcifications, cognitive deficit, and cataracts. Once calcium supplementation is administered, the disease has a good prognosis and, in most individuals, a significant improvement (21%) or even normalization (74%) of the left ventricular systolic function occurs.
A multidimensional index for range queries over Cayley‐based DHT
Authors: Li Lan , Bao Zhiyan , Xie Nan
Published: April 2020

This paper studies indexing multidimensional data based on the Borel Cayley graph. In order to provide the scalable query method, a special distributed hash table based on Borel Cayley graph is applied to key‐value–based data‐storing system. By taking advantage of the two different representations for the same one Borel Cayley graph, we present an efficient way for distributed multidimensional queries. Compared with other ring‐like indexing method, experimental results demonstrate that Borel Cayley–based index method reduces the routing table length and improves the index maintenance efficiency.
Emerging soft tissue tumors with kinase fusions: An overview of the recent literature with an emphasis on diagnostic criteria
Authors: Antonescu Cristina R.
Published: April 2020

A recent breakthrough in the classification of soft tissue tumors (STT) has been a significant expansion in the number of neoplasms associated with NTRK and other kinase related fusions. This is important not only for diagnostic purposes, but also because it opens new avenues for targeted therapy. Indeed, recent clincal trials have shown significant benefit across multiple tumor‐types, prompting approval of NTRK inhibitors for clinical use in the setting of advanced/metastatic NTRK‐rearranged neoplasms. Despite these therapeutic oportunities, diagnostic challenges have transpired in recognizing these emerging new histologic subtypes of kinase fusions positive‐STT prospectively. This, in part, is attributable to their wide morphologic spectrum, variable risk of malignancy, and non‐specific immunoprofile. As such, recommendations for pathologic criteria and immunohistochemical testing are needed to improve classification and streamline the small subset of potential candidates for further molecular validation. This overview summarizes the key histologic features of various STT associated with NTRK and other kinase fusions, which appear to share a similar morphologic spectrum. Immunohistochemically, many of these tumors, regardless of the kinase fusion type, notably show co‐expression of S100 and CD34; issues related to the utility of pan‐NTRK and NTRK1 immunostaining are therefore summarized. Finally, I discuss the role of confirmatory molecular testing and how, in some instances, this may also be of prognostic value. This review is intended as a critical summary of the current literature to emphasize pathologic criteria for improving recognition of this emerging and complex group of kinase fusion associated STT.
Reply to discussion of the current status of orogenesis in the Central Indian Tectonic Zone: A view from its southern margin
Authors: Bhowmik Santanu K.
Published: April 2020

Bhowmik suggested two stages of orogenesis at the southern margin of the Central Indian Tectonic Zone (CITZ): (a) an accretionary orogenesis type at ca. 1.6–1.5 Ga that formed a proto‐Greater Indian Landmass (GIL) through the assembly of arc, back‐arc and continental margins, (b) a Himalayan‐style continental collision event between 1.06 and 0.93 Ga that finally stitched the North and South India blocks to produce the final configuration of the GIL and (c) an intervening phase of extension between 1.5 and 1.06 Ga that led to the opening up of the Sausar Basin and deposition of the Sausar Group of rocks.
Comments on: “The current status of orogenesis in the Central Indian Tectonic Zone: A view from its southern margin” by Bhowmik, S. K. (2019). Geological Journal 54, 2912–2934
Authors: Mohanty Sarada P.
Published: April 2020

A three‐stage evolution model proposed for the Central Indian Tectonic Zone (CITZ) by Bhowmik is an incomplete model for the zone and has flaws regarding (a) the status of the Tirodi Gneiss vis‐à‐vis the Sausar Group, (b) the time of granulite metamorphism with respect to the deposition of the Sausar Group, and (c) the style of orogeny, direction of subduction, and position of suture. The author needs to clarify some of the regional structural and stratigraphic relations to support the conclusions drawn in the paper.
Spatiotemporal variability of sunshine duration and influential climatic factors in mainland China during 1959–2017
Authors: Xiong Jinghua , Wang Zhaoli , Lai Chengguang , Liao Yaoxing , Wu Xushu
Published: April 2020

Sunshine duration (SD) is a key index with which to quantitatively measure the intensity and duration of solar radiation. The exploration of spatiotemporal characteristics and potential influential factors for SD could help us better understand solar radiation variability. In this study, we first explore the spatiotemporal variability of SD across mainland China during 1959–2017, then identify the predominant influential climatic factors and detect their relative influence of temporal dynamic on SD, and finally discuss the relative influential rates of climatic factors and detect the dominating climatic factor on a spatial scale. The results show that: Firstly, the annual and seasonal SD gradually decreased from the northwest to southeast across mainland China; a significant decreasing trend (p < .05) was detected for annual SD at a rate of −2.7 h⋅a–1, a turning point significantly occurred in 1986 (p < .05) in the year SD series, and oscillation periods of 2.4–3.8 years existed in mainland China and most sub‐regions. Secondly, the significant (p < .05) decrease of wind speed (Win), increase of precipitation (Pre), and increase of vapour pressure (Vp) were responsible for the decreasing trend of SD with relative influential rates of 39.9, 30.6, and 29.5%, respectively. Thirdly, temporally, the relative influential rate of each climatic variable changed over time; spatially, Win dominated most areas of mainland China (55.9%) during 1959–2017, followed by Pre (24.9%) and Vp (19.2%).
The influence of anastomotic leakage for rectal cancer oncologic outcome: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Yang Jianguo , Chen Qingwei , Jindou Li , Cheng Yong
Published: April 2020

Background and Objective

Anastomotic leakage is a serious complication after arterial resection of rectal cancer. It has been found that anastomotic leakage is related to the oncological outcome. The purpose of the study is to evaluate the long‐term outcome of the rectal tumor after anastomotic leakage.

Methods

The effect of anastomotic leakage on the oncological outcome of rectal cancer was studied by electronic literature retrieval. Using the DerSimonian Laird random effect model to calculate the odds ratio and 95% confidence interval. Research heterogeneity was evaluated by Q statistics and I2, and bias was evaluated by funnel plot and Begg's test.

Results

A total of 35 studies and 44 698 patients were included in the study. The studies have shown that anastomotic leakage is associated with local recurrence (OR = 1.93; 95% CI, 1.57‐2.38; P < .0001), overall survival (OR = 1.64; 95% CI, 1.37‐1.95; P < .00001), disease‐free survival (OR = 2.07; 95% CI, 1.50‐2.87; P < .00001) and cancer‐specific survival (OR = 1.32; 95% CI, 1.02‐1.70; P = .012), while it was not related to distant recurrence (OR = 1.25; 95% CI, 0.95‐1.65; P = .12).

Conclusions

The results showed that anastomotic leakage after anterior resection increased the risk of local recurrence, decreased the overall survival, cancer‐specific survival and disease‐free survival.
Photonic Entanglement Based on Nonlinear Metamaterials
Authors: Ming Yang , Zhang Wang , Tang Jie , Liu Yuan , Xia Zilong , Liu Yushen , Lu Yan‐qing
Published: April 2020

Metamaterials consisting of deep subwavelength artificial “atoms” have been utilized to demonstrate a series of novel phenomena such as negative refraction and epsilon‐near‐zero. In recent times, metamaterials have been developed as an up‐and‐coming platform for quantum optics. Here the generation and modulation of photonic entanglement are investigated based on the parametric down conversion processes in metamaterials with considerable optical nonlinearity. Through flexible nanostructure design, the nonlinear photonic interaction in the metamaterial system can be effectively tailored. The distributions of optical parameters of the system are inhomogeneous, based on which the spatial properties of the generated photonic state can be steered as desired. The theoretical framework to describe this system is established based on the nonlinear Huygens–Fresnel principle, and a differential approach is utilized to deal with the intrinsic loss of the system. The generation of orbital angular momentum entangled states is actually considered as an illustration. This platform could be valuable for the practical applications of quantum information processing.
An evaluation of the application of the new public management principles in the South African municipalities
Authors: Munzhedzi Pandelani Harry
Published: April 2020

New public management (NPM) was introduced in the western world with a sole purpose of reforming the public sector and its approaches in managing affairs of the state. These reforms were later adopted in some parts of the African continent including in the sub‐Saharan Africa trying to emulate the successes of the developed economies of the world. South Africa as one of the countries in Africa also sought to shift from its apartheid bureaucratic, inefficient and rule driven management of public affairs. To this end, the democratic South Africa aligned its constitutional provisions with the principles of NPM which include but are not limited to participatory planning, decentralisation, performance management, effectiveness and efficiency. These principles were introduced precisely to better manage the state and its resources including at the local sphere of government. Local government in South Africa is underpinned by its own sets of policy frameworks. This conceptual paper seeks to evaluate the application of NPM principles in the South African municipalities. The said evaluation was undertaken through a review of existing literature. The paper concludes that the application of the said principles in the South African municipalities is confronted by some challenges including lack of political will, corruption as well as lack of skills and capacities. Necessary recommendations have been developed to enhance the performance of municipalities so as to achieve the otherwise good intended provisions of the NPM.
Re‐Crystallization of HNS‐IV by Optimization of Solvent/Anti‐Solvent Method through Taguchi Analysis Design
Authors: Reza Pouretedal Hamid , Damiri Sajjad , Moslemi Javad
Published: April 2020

The explosive HNS‐IV has been proven to be insensitive to shock, percussion, heat, and friction among polymorphs of HNS. According to the US military standard MIL‐E‐82903, the surface area of HNS‐IV must be 5.0 to 25.0 m2/g. Thus, the micronization of its particles in re‐crystallization process is a key step. The solvent/anti‐solvent method is used for re‐crystallization of HNS‐IV particles because user‐friendly, inexpensive and efficient. A successful re‐crystallization depends on the proper choice of solvent. Among studied solvents, N,N‐dimethylformamide (DMF) is selected based on its solubility for HNS that is obtained 7.23 g per 100 mL at 100 °C. Taguchi experiment design method is used to optimize the solvent/anti‐solvent re‐crystallization process. The three parameters of volume ratio of anti‐solvent to solvent, temperature of solvent and temperature of anti‐solvent are optimized. The bulk density (B.D) of re‐crystallized of HNS‐IV particles is used as a signal for optimization with the concept of “the larger‐the‐better”. The optimized parameters are volume ratio 20 to 1 for anti‐solvent to solvent and temperatures of 100 and 5 °C, respectively, for solvent and anti‐solvent. BET (Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller) method shows the specific surface area 12.7 m2/g for re‐crystallized particles. Also, SEM images indicate a thin platelet with size 5–10 μm for micronized HNS‐IV product.
Polyamorphism of GeO2 Glass at High Pressure
Authors: Hong Xinguo , Newville Matt
Published: April 2020

Polyamorphism of network‐forming SiO2 and GeO2 glasses at high pressures is a puzzling topic in condensed matter physics and has long‐standing interest because of their important geophysical and geochemical implications. Molecular dynamics simulations suggest that there are multiple amorphous–amorphous transitions at high pressure with parallel high‐pressure crystalline counterparts. However, it is very challenging to experimentally distinguish the pressure‐induced subtle change in the amorphous state at high pressure. Recently, a high‐pressure X‐ray absorption fine structure (HP‐XAFS) method is developed using a diamond anvil cell (DAC) to measure the local structure of polyamorphs in GeO2 glass at high pressure. The results indicate that GeO2 glass shows multiple polyamorphs at high pressure with a local structure, in general, similar to their high‐pressure crystalline states in the first coordination shell but with increasing differences in the distant coordination shells. Three pressure‐induced polyamorphs in GeO2 glass are recognized unambiguously at high pressure, i.e., α‐quartz‐like, rutile‐like, and pyrite‐like amorphous structures. The obtained knowledge of these polyamorphs is helpful for understanding the mechanisms of network compression behavior and physical properties of SiO2 and GeO2 glasses and melts under extreme conditions.
Effects of Rolling Temperature on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of a High‐Mn Austenitic Steel for Cryogenic Applications
Authors: Chen Yong , Zhang Xiaoming , Cai Zhihui , Ding Hua , Pan Mingming , Wei Wei , Liu Yuwei
Published: April 2020

The effects of rolling temperature on the microstructure and mechanical properties of a high‐Mn austenitic steel is investigated. It is observed that the grain size decreases with the decrease in rolling temperature, resulting in an increase in yield strength (YS) and an increase in ultimate tensile strength (UTS). Mechanical twinning is found to be less active in fine‐grained specimen, leading to the decrease in uniform and total elongations and impact toughness. The existence of dislocations and nanoscale mechanical twins in the initial microstructure contributes to the high YS, and the active mechanical twinning during deformation maintains excellent ductility and impact toughness. The thick twins (generally thicker than 300 nm and formed during hot rolling) play a supplementary role in increasing the instantaneous strain hardening during the late stage of tensile deformation.
University Hospital Financial Status Does Not Influence Subjective Perception of General Surgery Residents on Training Adequacy
Authors: Cassão Bruna Dell'Acqua , Herbella Fernando A. M. , dos Santos Marcelo Cincotto E. , Saad Sarhan S. , Patti Marco G.
Published: April 2020

Background

Surgical residency training is a complex and costly task. Hospital economic health is dependent on different variables, but it is especially linked to the country macroeconomics that may be extremely fluctuating, especially in underdeveloped countries. This study analyzed the correlation between a single‐center university hospital financial status and subjective perception of general surgery residents on program support and adequacy.

Methods

We surveyed former residents that started general surgery residency program in a tertiary university hospital between 1999 and 2017. Individuals answered a questionnaire about the perception of the influence of the hospital´s financial status on training. Hospital´s financial status was estimated yearly by the current liquidity ratio (CLR) that measures whether or not a company has enough resources to meet its short‐term obligations.

Results

Two hundred and fifty‐seven (96%) were still in surgical practice; 242 (93%) were satisfied with their residency training; 210 (78%) believed training was affected by financial status; 183 (68%) believed they were prepared for independent practice; 180 (67%) practiced in an academic environment; 146 (54%) felt the need to complete specialty training beyond residency; and 56 (21%) believed hospital financial status was adequate. The rate of positive or negative answers did not correlate with the current liquidity ratio, except for the need to complete specialty training that was indirectly related to CLR.

Conclusions

University hospital financial status did not influence subjective perception of general surgery residents on training, program support and adequacy.
Routine diagnostics for neural antibodies, clinical correlates, treatment and functional outcome
Authors: Bien Christian G. , Bien Corinna I. , Dogan Onugoren Müjgan , De Simoni Desiree , Eigler Verena , Haensch Carl-Albrecht , Holtkamp Martin , Ismail Fatme S. , Kurthen Martin , Melzer Nico , Mayer Kristina , von Podewils Felix , Rauschka Helmut , Rossetti Andrea O. , Schäbitz Wolf-Rüdiger , Simova Olga , Witt Karsten , Höftberger Romana , May Theodor W.
Published: April 2020

Objective

To determine frequencies, interlaboratory reproducibility, clinical ratings, and prognostic implications of neural antibodies in a routine laboratory setting in patients with suspected neuropsychiatric autoimmune conditions.

Methods

Earliest available samples from 10,919 patients were tested for a broad panel of neural antibodies. Sera that reacted with leucine-rich glioma-inactivated protein 1 (LGI1), contactin-associated protein-2 (CASPR2), or the voltage-gated potassium channel (VGKC) complex were retested for LGI1 and CASPR2 antibodies by another laboratory. Physicians in charge of patients with positive antibody results retrospectively reported on clinical, treatment, and outcome parameters.

Results

Positive results were obtained for 576 patients (5.3%). Median disease duration was 6 months (interquartile range 0.6–46 months). In most patients, antibodies were detected both in CSF and serum. However, in 16 (28%) patients with N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antibodies, this diagnosis could be made only in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The two laboratories agreed largely on LGI1 and CASPR2 antibody diagnoses (κ = 0.95). The clinicians (413 responses, 71.7%) rated two-thirds of the antibody-positive patients as autoimmune. Antibodies against the α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor (AMPAR), NMDAR (CSF or high serum titer), γ-aminobutyric acid-B receptor (GABABR), and LGI1 had ≥ 90% positive ratings, whereas antibodies against the glycine receptor, VGKC complex, or otherwise unspecified neuropil had ≤ 40% positive ratings. Of the patients with surface antibodies, 64% improved after ≥ 3 months, mostly with ≥ 1 immunotherapy intervention.

Conclusions

This novel approach starting from routine diagnostics in a dedicated laboratory provides reliable and useful results with therapeutic implications. Counseling should consider clinical presentation, demographic features, and antibody titers of the individual patient.
Nitrous oxide emissions in proportion to nitrification in moist temperate forests
Authors: Fan Shaoyan , Yoh Muneoki
Published: April 2020

Chronic elevated nitrogen deposition has increased nitrogen availability in many forest ecosystems globally, and this phenomenon has been suggested to increase soil nitrification. Although it is believed that increased nitrogen availability would also increase nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions from forest ecosystems, its impact on N2O flux is poorly known. In this study, 3-years monitoring of N2O emissions was performed in a forested watershed receiving elevated nitrogen deposition and located in the suburbs of Tokyo, Japan. In addition, a comparative field survey was carried out in nine temperate forest sites with varying nitrogen availabilities. In the intensively studied forest site showing typical nitrogen saturation, the average annual N2O emissions from the whole watershed were estimated to be 0.88 kg N ha−1 year−1, comparable to the highest observed levels for temperate forests except for some very high emission sites in Europe. Although no correlation was found for humid spots with WFPS > 60%, a clear positive correlation was noted between N2O flux and net nitrification rate in situ for plots with water-filled pore space (WFPS) < 60%. The N2O flux varied across nine forest sites almost in proportional to the stream water NO3− concentration in the watershed that ranged from 0.14 to 1.64 mg N/L. We conclude that N2O emissions are related to nitrification in moist temperate forest, which may be associated with the magnitude of nitrogen saturation.
Positive toxicology and reactive serology in tissue donors: a retrospective study over a 3-year period
Authors: Heck Ellen , Gruslin Kristel , Corder Valerie , Petroll W. Matthew , Urban Jill
Published: April 2020

Assessment of donor suitability and criteria development for tissue donation evaluation which appropriately addresses the risk factors for disease transmission, especially high risk for Hepatitis B or C, HIV or other transmissible diseases as defined by the Food and Drug Administration, FDA, is a continuing concern for tissue banks. The relationship of drug use, especially IV drugs, has been determined to be associated with an increased possibility of reactive serology (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (USCDC) in Division of Viral Hepatitis, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention. Hepatitis C questions and answers for health professionals. https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/hcv/hcvfaq.htm; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (USCDC) in infectious diseases, opioids and injection drug use, 2018. https://www.cdc.gov/pwid/opioid-use.html; HIH National Institute on Drug Abuse in Health Consequences of Drug Misuse, 2017. https://www.drugabuse.gov/related-topics/health-consequences-drug-misuse). Therefore, prior drug use determined by medical social history screening frequently results in deferral of a potential donor even when the route of drug administration has not been determined to be intravenous. Because of the association of drug use in numerous cases, which come under Medical Examiner jurisdiction, a possible rule out of a number of otherwise suitable medical examiner cases could occur. This retrospective review of medical examiner cases, tissue bank referrals and tissue donors in a 3-year period examines the relationship, if any, between reactive serology and positive toxicology results. These results would appear to indicate assessment of donor medical social history screening is effective in reducing recovery of high-risk donors.
Psychometric properties of the FACT-G quality of life scale for family caregivers of cancer patients
Authors: Song Lixin , Tan Xianming , Bredle Jason , Bennett Antonia V. , Northouse Laurel
Published: April 2020

Purpose

This study aimed to examine psychometric properties of a caregiver version of the well-established Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General Scale (FACT-G) after conducting focus groups and obtaining expert input.

Methods

We made minor wording modifications to the Patient FACT-G to enable caregivers to report how the illness affected their overall quality of life (QOL) and well-being on four subscales (physical, social, emotional, functional). We tested the acceptability, precision, factor structure, reliability and validity of the Caregiver FACT-G among partners of prostate cancer patients (N = 263) and caregivers (spouses, siblings, adult children) of patients with advanced cancer (breast, lung, colorectal, prostate) (N = 484) using data from two Randomized Clinical Trials (RCTs).

Results

With a factor structure similar to the Patient FACT-G, Caregiver FACT-G was acceptable and precise in measuring caregiver QOL, with high inter-factor correlations and internal consistency reliability (Cronbach’s alphas 0.81–0.91). The Caregiver FACT-G had strong convergent validity demonstrated by significant positive correlations with caregiver self-efficacy (0.25–0.63), dyadic communication (0.18–0.51), and social support (0.18–0.54) in both samples. It also had strong discriminant validity evidenced by significant inverse correlations with negative appraisal of caregiving (− 0.37 to − 0.69), uncertainty (− 0.28 to − 0.53), hopelessness (− 0.25 to − 0.60), and avoidant coping (− 0.26 to − 0.58) in both samples. Caregivers’ baseline FACT-G scores were significantly associated with their physical (0.23) and mental well-being (0.54; 4-month follow-up) and their depression (− 0.69; 3-month follow-up), indicating strong predictive validity.

Conclusion

This is the first study evaluating the psychometric properties of the Caregiver FACT-G. More psychometric testing is warranted, especially among caregivers of diverse sociocultural backgrounds.
Methodology for the identification of alternative manufacturing changes for safety–critical components
Authors: Bergs Thomas , Hermann Lennard , Rey Jan , Barth Sebastian
Published: April 2020

A variety of factors are forcing companies to change their products and the components these products are composed of. Examples of current factors are changing customer requirements, product optimizations or ever-shorter product lifecycles. These component changes, particularly in safety–critical components in the medical and aerospace industry, pose great challenges and are limited in scope. The challenges and limitations arise from the high costs and the amount of time involved in component recertification as required by law, as well as revalidations of the manufacturing after a change has been implemented. Some component changes are even mandatory. In this case there are no options for reducing recertification efforts by choosing between different design changes. In contrast, there are alternative manufacturing options with which to implement the prescribed component changes that can reduce the amount of revalidation required on the manufacturing side. Due to the fact that changes to the manufacture of safety–critical components require validation, the existence of alternative manufacturing changes offers the potential to save time and money by selecting the best-suited alternative. In order to be able to select the best-suited alternative, all alternative manufacturing changes must be known, which poses a challenge for technology planners dealing with the complex manufacture of safety–critical components. Therefore, a methodology is introduced to support technology planners in identify alternative manufacturing changes with which to implement scope-restricted changes to safety–critical components. The methodology is validated by applying it to a case study from the medical industry.
Comparative analysis of microsatellite and SNP markers for parentage testing in the golden snub-nosed monkey (Rhinopithecus roxellana)
Authors: Ling Chen , Lixia Wu , Rong Hou , Fujun Shen , Wenping Zhang , Yao Tang , Yaohua Yuan , Bo Zhao , Liang Zhang
Published: April 2020

Microsatellite markers are popular for assigning parentage, but single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have only been applied in this area recently. To evaluate these two markers which have been previously studied in golden snub-nosed monkeys, we genotyped 12 individuals using 37 microsatellite loci and 37 SNP markers. The data showed that 32 of 37 microsatellite loci were polymorphic, and most microsatellite loci were high informative (mean PIC = 0.599). Meanwhile, 24 of 37 SNP markers were polymorphic and most were low informative (mean PIC = 0.244). For microsatellites, the combined exclusion probability with one-parent-unknown/known (CE-1P/CE-2P) nearly reached 1, while for the SNP markers, CE-2P only reached 0.9582. Under the condition of one parent known/unknown, the CE-2P and CE-1P could meet the international human parental standard (0.9973) by using five or nine microsatellite loci respectively. For SNP markers, we doubled the loci (n = 48) and simulated parentage testing, and the data showed that the CE-2P was 0.998 while the CE-1P was still low. This result indicated that the SNP loci which we used here had low polymorphism and that more loci need to be developed in the future. In addition, we corrected one case of failed identification by excluding siblings and reducing the range of candidate paternities.
On the Development of AI in Germany
Authors: Bibel Wolfgang
Published: April 2020

The article gives a brief account of the historical evolution of Artificial Intelligence in Germany, covering key steps from antiquity to the present state of the discipline. Its focus is on AI as a science and on organisational aspects rather than on technological ones or on specific AI subjects.
Genome-wide characterization of simple sequence repeats in Palmae genomes
Authors: Manee Manee M. , Al-Shomrani Badr M. , Al-Fageeh Mohamed B.
Published: April 2020

Background

Microsatellites or simple sequence repeats (SSRs) have become the most significant DNA marker technology used in genetic research. The availability of complete draft genomes for a number of Palmae species has made it possible to perform genome-wide analysis of SSRs in these species. Palm trees are tropical and subtropical plants with agricultural and economic importance due to the nutritional value of their fruit cultivars.

Objective

This is the first comprehensive study examining and comparing microsatellites in completely-sequenced draft genomes of Palmae species.

Methods

We identified and compared perfect SSRs with 1–6 bp nucleotide motifs to characterize microsatellites in Palmae species using v0.2.5. We analyzed their relative abundance, relative density, and GC content in five palm species: Phoenix dactylifera, Cocos nucifera, Calamus simplicifolius, Elaeis oleifera, and Elaeis guineensis.

Results

A total of 118241, 328189, 450753, 176608, and 70694 SSRs were identified, respectively. The six repeat types were not evenly distributed across the five genomes. Mono- and dinucleotide SSRs were the most abundant, and GC content was highest in tri- and hexanucleotide SSRs.

Conclusion

We envisage that this analysis would further substantiate more in-depth computational, biochemical, and molecular studies on the roles SSRs may play in the genome organization of the palm species. The current study contributes a detailed characterization of simple sequence repeats in palm genomes.
The organic formation of a wellness committee: A unique, student-led approach to implementing a wellness program in medical school
Authors: Brunner Michael R. , Peters Daniel , Portera Mary Virginia , Fazili Irtiqa , McBride Mary , Dennis Mallie , Herr Michael J.
Published: April 2020

Background Medical school wellness programs are rapidly becoming a prevalent feature of medical education. The wellness component of medical education is addressed by a multitude of different approaches, but is often led by administrative faculty rather than students.

Approach The first-year medical student authors collectively established a medical school wellness committee that is entirely student-driven. The goal of the wellness committee was to organize and promote student ideas centered on six aspects of wellness.

Evaluation The formation, initial successes, and hurdles to the inception and continuation of the committee are described in a repeatable way.

Reflection This perspective provides insight into a student-led innovation that was formally accepted by faculty and administration to serve as part of the university’s overall wellness initiatives.
Limited Early Warnings and Public Attention to Coronavirus Disease 2019 in China, January–February, 2020: A Longitudinal Cohort of Randomly Sampled Weibo Users
Authors: Zhu Yuner , Fu King-Wa , Grépin Karen A. , Liang Hai , Fung Isaac Chun-Hai
Published: April 2020

Objective:

Awareness and attentiveness have implications for the acceptance and adoption of disease prevention and control measures. Social media posts provide a record of the public’s attention to an outbreak. To measure the attention of Chinese netizens to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), a pre-established nationally representative cohort of Weibo users was searched for COVID-19-related key words in their posts.

Methods:

COVID-19-related posts (N = 1101) were retrieved from a longitudinal cohort of 52 268 randomly sampled Weibo accounts (December 31, 2019–February 12, 2020).

Results:

Attention to COVID-19 was limited prior to China openly acknowledging human-to-human transmission on January 20. Following this date, attention quickly increased and has remained high over time. Particularly high levels of social media traffic appeared around when Wuhan was first placed in quarantine (January 23–24, 8–9% of the overall posts), when a scandal associated with the Red Cross Society of China occurred (February 1, 8%), and, following the death of Dr Li Wenliang (February 6–7, 11%), one of the whistleblowers who was reprimanded by the Chinese police in early January for discussing this outbreak online.

Conclusion:

Limited early warnings represent missed opportunities to engage citizens earlier in the outbreak. Governments should more proactively communicate early warnings to the public in a transparent manner.
Schulsozialarbeit: Berufliche Wege und Herausforderungen des Arbeitsalltags
Authors: Köbel Nils
Published: April 2020

Zusammenfassung. Der Artikel beschäftigt sich mit der Frage, wie sich Schulsozialarbeit innerhalb des Spannungsfeldes zwischen außerschulischer Jugendbildung und Schule entwickelt und welche Handlungsmethoden den gegenwärtigen Lebenswelten von Schüler_innen entsprechen. Hierzu wird ein Interview mit einem Schulsozialarbeiter vorgestellt, das im Zuge eines Forschungsprojektes zur Schulsozialarbeit durchgeführt wurde.
Praxisschock, Demotivation und Ausbildungsabbruch?
Authors: Twenhöfel Ralf , Machl Verena , Memmel Doris
Published: April 2020

Zusammenfassung. Die Intention des Pflegeberufegesetzes einer „generalistischen“ Vereinheitlichung der Pflegeausbildungen wird sich nicht umstandslos erfüllen. Zu verschieden sind die Rahmen- und Ausbildungsbedingungen an den Lernorten der praktischen Ausbildung, als dass die Unterschiede zwischen ihnen mit der Umsetzung des Gesetzes leichthin verschwänden. Am Beispiel eines durchgeführten Projektes werden Herausforderungen beschrieben, die eine „Generalistik“ zu bewältigen hat.
Lungen·krebs – Was nun?
Authors: Klein Stefanie , Geulen Julia , Penzkofer Andrea , Weg-Remers Susanne , Terfloth Karin
Published: April 2020

Zusammenfassung. Erfahrungsbericht über die Entwicklung einer Broschüre, entstanden in Kooperation zwischen dem Fachbereich Geistig- und Mehrfachbehindertenpädagogik am Institut für Sonderpädagogik der Pädagogischen Hochschule Heidelberg und dem Krebsinformationsdienst des Deutschen Krebsforschungszentrums.
A Review of US Army Unmanned Aerial Systems Accidents
Authors: Feltman Kathryn A. , Curry Ian P. , Kelley Amanda M.
Published: April 2020

Abstract. Unmanned aerial systems (UAS) are increasingly used in military operations. Successful operations, despite no human onboard, are heavily human-dependent. A review of Army UAS accidents was completed to evaluate the role of the human in these accidents so as to inform future research and operations. Reports of 288 accidents occurring between 2010 and 2015 were obtained. Report elements including aircraft type, accident findings, and personnel information were reviewed. About 76% of accidents were not due to human error, specifically based on contributions of air and ground crew in flight operations. No clear conclusions were identified to aid in determining the contribution of the human to the accident. Recommendations for more rigorous investigations, to include capturing objective data of personnel, are put forth.
Floating Patches of Soil Nutrients in Soil Help Explain Arctic Thawing
Authors: Shultz David
Published: April 2020

Nutrient-rich diapirs have a complex relationship with soil microbes and play an important role in carbon and nitrogen nutrient cycling, making them crucial for understanding feedbacks in the Arctic.
NPM1 upregulates the transcription of PD-L1 and suppresses T cell activity in triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Qin Ge , Wang Xin , Ye Shubiao , Li Yizhuo , Chen Miao , Wang Shusen , Qin Tao , Zhang Changlin , Li Yixin , Long Qian , Hu Huabin , Shi Dingbo , Li Jiaping , Zhang Kai , Zhai Qinglian , Tang Yanlai , Kang Tiebang , Lan Ping , Xie Fangyun , Lu Jianjun , Deng Wuguo
Published: April 2020

Programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1)/programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-L1) interaction plays a crucial role in tumor-associated immune escape. Here, we verify that triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has higher PD-L1 expression than other subtypes. We then discover that nucleophosmin (NPM1) binds to PD-L1 promoter specifically in TNBC cells and activates PD-L1 transcription, thus inhibiting T cell activity in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, we demonstrate that PARP1 suppresses PD-L1 transcription through its interaction with the nucleic acid binding domain of NPM1, which is required for the binding of NPM1 at PD-L1 promoter. Consistently, the PARP1 inhibitor olaparib elevates PD-L1 expression in TNBC and exerts a better effect with anti-PD-L1 therapy. Together, our research has revealed NPM1 as a transcription regulator of PD-L1 in TNBC, which could lead to potential therapeutic strategies to enhance the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy.
Functional brain network reconfiguration during learning in a dynamic environment
Authors: Kao Chang-Hao , Khambhati Ankit N. , Bassett Danielle S. , Nassar Matthew R. , McGuire Joseph T. , Gold Joshua I. , Kable Joseph W.
Published: April 2020

When learning about dynamic and uncertain environments, people should update their beliefs most strongly when new evidence is most informative, such as when the environment undergoes a surprising change or existing beliefs are highly uncertain. Here we show that modulations of surprise and uncertainty are encoded in a particular, temporally dynamic pattern of whole-brain functional connectivity, and this encoding is enhanced in individuals that adapt their learning dynamics more appropriately in response to these factors. The key feature of this whole-brain pattern of functional connectivity is stronger connectivity, or functional integration, between the fronto-parietal and other functional systems. Our results provide new insights regarding the association between dynamic adjustments in learning and dynamic, large-scale changes in functional connectivity across the brain.