bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Unequal Opportunity For Skills Acquisition During The Great Recession In Europe
Authors: Ayllón Sara , Nollenberger Natalia
Published: May 2020

This paper is the first to investigate the extent to which the high levels of joblessness resulting from the Great Recession across Europe have translated into higher school attendance among youth. Using repeated cross‐sectional and longitudinal data from the EU‐SILC for 28 countries, we establish a robust counter‐cyclical relationship between rising unemployment rates and school enrolment. The same is true of transitions back to education. Our analysis by subgroups reveals a worrying trend, with youths from the most disadvantaged backgrounds (measured by low household income) less likely to enrol in tertiary studies when unemployment rises.
Simple Rules to Guide Expert Classifications
Authors: Jung Jongbin , Concannon Connor , Shroff Ravi , Goel Sharad , Goldstein Daniel G.
Published: May 2020

Judges, doctors and managers are among those decision makers who must often choose a course of action under limited time, with limited knowledge and without the aid of a computer. Because data-driven methods typically outperform unaided judgements, resource-constrained practitioners can benefit from simple, statistically derived rules that can be applied mentally. In this work, we formalize long-standing observations about the efficacy of improper linear models to construct accurate yet easily applied rules. To test the performance of this approach, we conduct a large-scale evaluation in 22 domains and focus in detail on one: judicial decisions to release or detain defendants while they await trial. In these domains, we find that simple rules rival the accuracy of complex prediction models that base decisions on considerably more information. Further, comparing with unaided judicial decisions, we find that simple rules substantially outperform the human experts. To conclude, we present an analytical framework that sheds light on why simple rules perform as well as they do.
Lexical Variation in Degree wh‐questions in Spanish and the Internal Structure of wh‐phrases1
Authors: Eguren Luis
Published: May 2020

This paper provides a formal account of the pattern of lexical variation found in adjectival degree wh‐questions in current Spanish. It is proposed that Spanish degree wh‐forms heading an interrogative clause (cuán ‘how much’, qué tan ‘what so’, cómo de ‘how of’, and cuánto de ‘how much of’) share an internal structure including (at least) two components, a wh‐operator and a (degree) variable, which are both phonetically realized in the Old and American Spanish degree wh‐expression qué tan. This analysis is extended to the American Spanish nominal wh‐form qué tanto(s) ‘what so much/many’ and to the general Spanish manner wh‐expression qué tal ‘what such’. It is further argued that all interrogative wh‐forms in Spanish comprise a wh‐quantifier and an overt or covert variable ranging over different types of entities (individuals, amounts, manners, degrees, etc.), also tentatively suggesting that this could apply across languages.
Reviewer Acknowledgements
Authors: Johnson Patricia
Published: May 2020

Studies in Media and Communication (SMC) would like to acknowledge the following reviewers for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Many authors, regardless of whether SMC publishes their work, appreciate the helpful feedback provided by the reviewers. Their comments and suggestions were of great help to the authors in improving the quality of their papers. Each of the reviewers listed below returned at least one review for this issue.Reviewers for Volume 8, Number 1Andreas Veglis, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GreeceAntonio García Gómez, University of Alcalá de Henares, SpainAslı Sezgin, Osmaniye Korkut Ata University, TurkeyBegoña Montero-Fleta, Universitat Poltècnica de València, SpainCamelia Cmeciu, Danubius University of Galati, RomaniaCarmen Pérez-Sabater, Universitat Politècnica de València, SpainDaniel Nkrumah, Pentecost University College, GhanaDorina Ticu, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University, RomaniaGholamreza Azarbouyehdinaki, Shiraz Art University, AustraliaImed Ben Labidi, Doha Institute for Graduate Studies, USAJavier Serrano Puche, University of Navarra, SpainJenny-Ann Danell, Umea University, SwedenKunle Olufemi Aramide, The Polytechnic Ibadan, NigeriaMaría José Serrano, Universidad de La Laguna, SpainNina Gunnarsson, Jönköping university, SwedenPhilemon Bantimaroudis, University of Cyprus, CyprusShiza Nisar, Lahore School of Economics, PakistanWilliam Thomas Howe, University of Oklahoma, USAYi Luo, Montclair State University, USAYoung Joon Lim, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, USA Patricia JohnsonEditorial AssistantOn behalf of,The Editorial Board of Studies in Media and CommunicationRedfame Publishing9450 SW Gemini Dr. #99416Beaverton, OR 97008, USAURL: http://smc.redfame.com
Reflexos da operação lava jato no âmbito dos trabalhos desenvolvidos pela auditoria externa no Brasil
Authors: Rocha de Souza André Luis , De Faria Juliano Almeida
Published: May 2020

A pesquisa objetivou analisar que reflexos a Operação Lava Jato –OLJ– pode gerar sobre os trabalhos desenvolvidos pela auditoria externa e suas normas no Brasil e quais os termos associados à OLJ mais presentes nos relatórios contábeis e pareceres de auditoria da Petrobras. Realizou-se uma pesquisa de natureza bibliográfica e documental, com uma abordagem qualitativa, teórico-empírica e descritiva. Os dados, referentes ao período de 2012 a 2017, foram analisados com apoio do software Nvivo® e extraídos dos seguintes relatórios da Petrobras: Demonstrações Financeiras Padronizadas –DFPs–, Formulários de Referência e Pareceres de Auditoria. Observou-se que os principais reflexos da OLJ sobre os trabalhos da auditoria externa e sobre as Normas Brasileiras de Contabilidade Técnicas de Auditoria Independente são da necessidade de mudanças tanto de natureza técnica e procedimental quanto de natureza legal e normativa. Por fim, a pesquisa evidenciou que o termo com a maior concentração nas DFPs foi o termo Cartel.
The Association of Trail Features With Self-Report Trail Use by Neighborhood Residents
Authors: Johansen Christopher , Reynolds Kim D. , Wolch Jennifer , Byrne Jason , Chou Chih-Ping , Boyle Sarah , Spruijt-Metz Donna , Lienemann Brianna A. , Weaver Susan , Jerrett Michael
Published: May 2020

Background: Urban trails are a useful resource to promote physical activity. This study identified features of urban trails that correlated with trail use. Methods: Multiuse urban trails were selected in Chicago, Dallas, and Los Angeles. An audit of each trail was completed using the Systematic Pedestrian and Cyclist Environmental Scan for Trails instrument, identifying built environmental features. A self-report of trail use was obtained from trailside residents (N = 331) living within 1 mile of each trail. Univariate and multivariate Poisson regressions controlled for trail time from home and motivation for physical activity. Results: Positive associations with the past month’s hours on the trail were observed for the presence of distance signs, vegetation height, vegetation maintenance, and trail crowding, and a negative association was observed for the presence of crossings on the trail. Positive associations with dichotomous trail use were observed for the presence of distance signs, vegetation height, and vegetation maintenance, and a negative association was observed for the presence of crossings on the trail. Conclusions: These correlates should be confirmed in other studies and, if supported, should be considered in the promotion and design of urban trails.
Electrogenetic cellular insulin release for real-time glycemic control in type 1 diabetic mice
Authors: Krawczyk Krzysztof , Xue Shuai , Buchmann Peter , Charpin-El-Hamri Ghislaine , Saxena Pratik , Hussherr Marie-Didiée , Shao Jiawei , Ye Haifeng , Xie Mingqi , Fussenegger Martin
Published: May 2020

Electronic control of designer cells

There is increasing interest in using designer cells to produce or deliver therapeutics. Achieving direct communication between such cells and electronic devices would allow precise control of therapies. Krawczyk
et al.
describe a bioelectronic interface that uses wireless-powered electrical stimulation of cells to promote the release of insulin (see the Perspective by Brier and Dordick). The authors engineered human β cells to respond to membrane depolarization by rapidly releasing insulin from intracellular storage vesicles. A bioelectronic device that incorporates the cells can be wirelessly triggered by an external field generator. When subcutaneously implanted in type 1 diabetic mice, the device could be triggered to restore normal blood glucose levels.

Science
, this issue p.
993
; see also p.
936
Strengthening of the Kuroshio current by intensifying tropical cyclones
Authors: Zhang Yu , Zhang Zhengguang , Chen Dake , Qiu Bo , Wang Wei
Published: May 2020

Changing forces in midstream

The intensity and frequency of the strongest cyclones east of Taiwan have increased over the past several decades as the climate has warmed. Zhang
et al.
found that one result of this trend has been the strengthening of Kuroshio current transport off the coast of Japan. The Kuroshio, like its Atlantic counterpart the Gulf Stream, is a surface current that moves huge volumes of warm water from low latitudes to high ones. As strong Pacific cyclones have become stronger, they have increased the amount of energy contained in cyclonic mesoscale ocean eddies and decreased that of anticyclonic ones. This in turn has increased the transfer of energy to the Kuroshio as eddies move into the current, providing a feedback between climate warming and ocean heat transport.

Science
, this issue p.
988
The human tumor microbiome is composed of tumor type–specific intracellular bacteria
Authors: Nejman Deborah , Livyatan Ilana , Fuks Garold , Gavert Nancy , Zwang Yaara , Geller Leore T. , Rotter-Maskowitz Aviva , Weiser Roi , Mallel Giuseppe , Gigi Elinor , Meltser Arnon , Douglas Gavin M. , Kamer Iris , Gopalakrishnan Vancheswaran , Dadosh Tali , Levin-Zaidman Smadar , Avnet Sofia , Atlan Tehila , Cooper Zachary A. , Arora Reetakshi , Cogdill Alexandria P. , Khan Md Abdul Wadud , Ologun Gabriel , Bussi Yuval , Weinberger Adina , Lotan-Pompan Maya , Golani Ofra , Perry Gili , Rokah Merav , Bahar-Shany Keren , Rozeman Elisa A. , Blank Christian U. , Ronai Anat , Shaoul Ron , Amit Amnon , Dorfman Tatiana , Kremer Ran , Cohen Zvi R. , Harnof Sagi , Siegal Tali , Yehuda-Shnaidman Einav , Gal-Yam Einav Nili , Shapira Hagit , Baldini Nicola , Langille Morgan G. I. , Ben-Nun Alon , Kaufman Bella , Nissan Aviram , Golan Talia , Dadiani Maya , Levanon Keren , Bar Jair , Yust-Katz Shlomit , Barshack Iris , Peeper Daniel S. , Raz Dan J. , Segal Eran , Wargo Jennifer A. , Sandbank Judith , Shental Noam , Straussman Ravid
Published: May 2020

Profiling tumor bacteria

Bacteria are well-known residents in human tumors, but whether their presence is advantageous to the tumors or to the bacteria themselves has been unclear. As an initial step toward addressing this question, Nejman
et al.
produced an exhaustive catalog of the bacteria present in more than 1500 human tumors representing seven different tumor types (see the Perspective by Atreya and Turnbaugh). They found that the bacteria within tumors were localized within both cancer cells and immune cells and that the bacterial composition varied according to tumor type. Certain biologically plausible associations were identified. For example, breast cancer subtypes characterized by increased oxidative stress were enriched in bacteria that produce mycothiol, which can detoxify reactive oxygen species.

Science
, this issue p.
973
; see also p.
938
Delicate seafloor landforms reveal past Antarctic grounding-line retreat of kilometers per year
Authors: Dowdeswell J. A. , Batchelor C. L. , Montelli A. , Ottesen D. , Christie F. D. W. , Dowdeswell E. K. , Evans J.
Published: May 2020

A rapid retreat

Are the rates at which we observe ice shelves shrinking today representative of how fast they shrank in the past? Dowdeswell
et al.
report observations of the Antarctic seafloor that reveal the presence of submarine grounding-zone wedges on the Larsen continental shelf (see the Perspective by Jakobsson). The authors interpret these ridges as being caused by the tidal rise and fall of the ice shelf at the grounding line, which squeezes the underlying sediments when it rests on the seafloor. From this, they calculated that ice shelf retreat at this location about 14,000 years ago was at times as much as 100 times as fast as the average over the past 10,000 years.

Science
, this issue p.
1020
; see also p.
939
Comment on “High-surface-area corundum by mechanochemically induced phase transformation of boehmite”
Authors: Li Jiangong , Pu Sanxu , Cao Wenbin , Li Lu , Guo Ruiyun
Published: May 2020

Amrute
et al
. (Reports, 25 October 2019, p. 485) claimed that no methods were able to produce high-purity α-Al
2
O
3
with surface areas greater than 100 m
2
g
–1
, even though much higher surface areas up to 253 m
2
g
–1
have been reported. Moreover, the materials they obtained could be porous aggregates and may not be 13-nm nanoparticles, as claimed.
Response to Comment on “High-surface-area corundum by mechanochemically induced phase transformation of boehmite”
Authors: Amrute Amol P. , Łodziana Zbigniew , Schreyer Hannah , Weidenthaler Claudia , Schüth Ferdi
Published: May 2020

Li
et al
. commented that our report claims that methods reported thus far cannot enable the production of high-purity corundum with surface areas greater than 100 m
2
g
–1
, and that our obtained material could be porous aggregates rather than nanoparticles. We disagree with both of these suggestions.
A phage-encoded anti-CRISPR enables complete evasion of type VI-A CRISPR-Cas immunity
Authors: Meeske Alexander J. , Jia Ning , Cassel Alice K. , Kozlova Albina , Liao Jingqiu , Wiedmann Martin , Patel Dinshaw J. , Marraffini Luciano A.
Published: May 2020

An infallible inhibitor of Cas13

CRISPR-Cas13 protects bacterial populations from viral infections by indiscriminately destroying the RNA of the cell and its invader, simultaneously arresting the growth of infected hosts and the spread of the virus. This response is mediated by the Cas13 nuclease, which unleashes massive RNA degradation after recognition of viral transcripts that are complementary to its guide RNA. Meeske
et al.
discovered AcrVIA1, a viral-encoded inhibitor that binds to Cas13 to occlude the RNA guide and prevent the activation of the nuclease (see the Perspective by Barrangou and Sontheimer). As opposed to inhibitors of DNA-cleaving CRISPR-Cas systems, which require multiple infections to neutralize all Cas nucleases of the host, production of AcrVIA1 by a single virus is sufficient to overcome the CRISPR-Cas13 response.

Science
, this issue p.
54
; see also p.
31
In Vitro
Activity of the Ultrabroad-Spectrum-Beta-Lactamase Inhibitor QPX7728 against Carbapenem-Resistant
Enterobacterales
with Varying Intrinsic and Acquired Resistance Mechanisms
Authors: Nelson Kirk , Rubio-Aparicio Debora , Sun Dongxu , Dudley Michael , Lomovskaya Olga
Published: May 2020

QPX7728 is an investigational ultrabroad-spectrum-beta-lactamase inhibitor (BLI) with potent inhibition of key serine and metallo-beta-lactamases. QPX7728 enhances the potency of many beta-lactams, including carbapenems, in isogenic strains of Gram-negative bacteria producing various beta-lactamases. The potency of meropenem alone and in combination with QPX7728 (tested at fixed concentrations of 1 to 16 μg/ml) was tested against 598 clinical isolates of carbapenem-resistant
Enterobacterales
(CRE).
NHR-49 Transcription Factor Regulates Immunometabolic Response and Survival of Caenorhabditis elegans during Enterococcus faecalis Infection
Authors: Dasgupta Madhumanti , Shashikanth Meghana , Gupta Anjali , Sandhu Anjali , De Atreyee , Javed Salil , Singh Varsha
Published: May 2020

Immune response to pathogens is energetically expensive to the host; however, the cellular source of energy to fuel immune response remains unknown. In this study, we show that
Caenorhabditis elegans
exposed to pathogenic Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria or yeast rapidly utilizes lipid droplets, the major energy reserve. The nematode’s response to the pathogenic bacterium
Enterococcus faecalis
entails metabolic rewiring for the upregulation of several genes involved in lipid utilization and downregulation of lipid synthesis genes.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of mouse models of diabetes-associated ulcers
Authors: Huynh Pacific , Phie James , Krishna Smriti Murali , Golledge Jonathan
Published: May 2020

Mouse models are frequently used to study diabetes-associated ulcers, however, whether these models accurately simulate impaired wound healing has not been thoroughly investigated. This systematic review aimed to determine whether wound healing is impaired in mouse models of diabetes and assess the quality of the past research. A systematic literature search was performed of publicly available databases to identify original articles examining wound healing in mouse models of diabetes. A meta-analysis was performed to examine the effect of diabetes on wound healing rate using random effect models. A meta-regression was performed to examine the effect of diabetes duration on wound healing impairment. The quality of the included studies was also assessed using two newly developed tools. 77 studies using eight different models of diabetes within 678 non-diabetic and 720 diabetic mice were included. Meta-analysis showed that wound healing was impaired in all eight models. Meta-regression suggested that longer duration of diabetes prior to wound induction was correlated with greater degree of wound healing impairment. Pairwise comparisons suggested that non-obese diabetic mice exhibited more severe wound healing impairment compared withdb/dbmice, streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice or high-fat fed mice at an intermediate stage of wound healing (p<0.01). Quality assessment suggested that the prior research frequently lacked incorporation of key clinically relevant characteristics. This systematic review suggested that impaired wound healing can be simulated in many different mouse models of diabetes but these require further refinement to become more clinically relevant.
Role of fructosamine-3-kinase in protecting against the onset of microvascular and macrovascular complications in patients with T2DM
Authors: Sartore Giovanni , Ragazzi Eugenio , Burlina Silvia , Paleari Renata , Chilelli Nino Cristiano , Mosca Andrea , Avemaria Francesca , Lapolla Annunziata
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Microangiopathic and macroangiopathic complications are the main cause of morbidity and mortality in the diabetic population. Numerous publications have highlighted the role of glycation in the onset of complications of diabetes. In this context, the detection of fructosamine-3-kinase (FN3K)—an enzyme capable of counteracting the effect of hyperglycemia by intervening in protein glycation—has attracted great interest. Several studies have linkedFN3Kgenetic variability to its enzymatic activity and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels. Here, we investigated the role ofFN3Kpolymorphisms in the development of microvascular and macrovascular complications of diabetes.

Research design and methods

The anthropometric and biochemical parameters, and any medical history of microangiopathic and macroangiopathic complications, were documented in a sample of 80 subjects with type 2 diabetes. All subjects were screened forFN3Kgene and analyzed for the combination of three polymorphisms known to be associated with its enzymatic activity (rs3859206 and rs2256339 in the promoter region and rs1056534 in exon 6).

Results

The combination of allelic variants ofFN3Kpolymorphisms resulted in 13 distinct genotypic variants within the cohort. Comparison between genotypes showed no significant differences in terms of demographic, anthropometric and biochemical parameters, risk markers and long-term complications, except for a higher age and vitamin E levels associated with the genotype presenting GG at position −385, TT at position −232, and CC at c.900 A. Evaluating the microangiopathic and macroangiopathic complications as a whole, we found that they appeared significantly less present in this genotype compared with all other genotypes (p=0.0306).

Conclusions

The group of patients carrying the favorable allele for the three polymorphisms of theFN3Kgene revealed less severe microangiopathy and macroangiopathy, suggesting a protective role of this genotype against the onset of the complications of diabetes.
Retinal arteriolar oxygen saturation predicts the need for intravitreal aflibercept in patients with diabetic macular oedema
Authors: Blindbæk Søren Leer , Peto Tunde , Grauslund Jakob
Published: May 2020

Objective

Given the increasing burden of repetitive intravitreal injections in diabetic macular oedema (DMO) treatment, non-invasive markers of treatment outcome are needed. Hence, we aimed to examine retinal oximetry parameters as markers of need for intravitreal aflibercept in patients with DMO.

Methods

This study was based on data from a 12-month clinical trial including 35 eyes of 25 patients with centre involving DMO. Retinal oximetry, visual acuity (VA) and central retinal thickness (CRT) were performed at baseline (BL). Patients then received 3 monthly injections of aflibercept followed by focal/grid laser photocoagulation. From month 4 (M4) through 12 (M12), patients were followed monthly and additional injections were given pro re nata if criteria of retreatment were met. We evaluated the difference in need for intravitreal aflibercept in groups of eyes with the highest and lowest retinal arteriolar and venular oxygen saturations, respectively.

Results

From BL-M12, overall VA letter score improved by 8.7 (7.2–10.2). Likewise CRT reduced by 100.7 (68.2–133.3) µm and the mean number of injections was 4.3 (3.8–4.8). Overall retinal arteriolar and venular oxygen saturations were 95.7 (93.0–98.4)% and 62.7 (59.4–65.9)% at BL. Eyes with the highest retinal arteriolar oxygen saturations had significantly more injections between BL and M12 compared with eyes with the lowest retinal arteriolar oxygen saturations (5.0 (4.2–5.8) vs 3.6 (3.1–4.0), p=0.002).

Conclusion

Higher retinal arteriolar oxygen saturation independently predicted the need for more intravitreal aflibercept during the first year of DMO treatment and may serve as a valuable adjunctive to established procedures for retinal imaging in terms of individualised treatment plans.

Trial registration number

NCT02554747
Number of reflux episodes on pH-impedance monitoring associates with improved
symptom outcome and treatment satisfaction in gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
patients with regurgitation
Authors: Rogers Benjamin D , Valdovinos Luis R , Crowell Michael D , Bell Reginald , Vela Marcelo F , Gyawali C Prakash
Published: May 2020

Objective

Number of reflux episodes, an adjunctive metric on pH-impedance monitoring, is
incompletely studied. We aimed to determine if number of reflux episodes associates
with therapeutic outcome in regurgitation predominant gastro-oesophageal reflux
disease (GERD).

Design

We performed post hoc analysis of postintervention pH-impedance data from adult
patients with moderate/severe regurgitation despite QD proton pump inhibitor (PPI),
randomised to either two times a day PPI or magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) in
2:1 allocation. After 6 and 12 months, symptom response was defined by improvement in
Foregut Symptom Questionnaire (FSQ) regurgitation score to none or minimal, ≥50%
reduction in GERD health-related quality of life (HRQL) score and satisfaction with
therapy. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine predictors
of symptom improvement.

Results

Of 152 randomised patients, 123 (age 46.9±1.2 year, 43% female) had complete
data. Symptom and satisfaction scores significantly improved after MSA compared with
two times a day PPI. Both acid exposure time (13.4%±0.7% to 1.3±0.2%, p<0.001) and
reflux episodes (86±4 to 48±4, p<0.001) declined with therapy. Reduction to <40
reflux episodes was significantly more frequent in those with symptom response by FSQ
regurgitation score, GERD HRQL score and satisfaction with therapy (p≤0.03 for each);
<35 episodes performed better on receiver operating characteristic analysis. On
multivariate analysis, improvement in regurgitation score remained independently
predictive of satisfaction with therapy (p<0.001 for each). In patients crossing
over to MSA, >80 episodes pretreatment predicted improvement.

Conclusions

Reduction of reflux episodes on pH-impedance to physiological levels associates
with improved outcomes, while pathological levels predict improvement with MSA in
regurgitation predominant GERD.

Trail registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02505945.
Performance of gastrointestinal pathologists within a national digital review panel for Barrett’s oesophagus in the Netherlands: results of 80 prospective biopsy reviews
Authors: Klaver Esther , van der Wel Myrtle , Duits Lucas , Pouw Roos , Seldenrijk Kees , Offerhaus Johan , Visser Mike , ten Kate Fiebo , Biermann Katharina , Brosens Lodewijk , Doukas Michael , Huysentruyt Clément , Karrenbeld Arend , Kats-Ugurlu Gursah , van der Laan Jaap , van Lijnschoten Ineke , Moll Freek , Ooms Ariadne , Tijssen Jan , Meijer Sybren , Bergman Jacques
Published: May 2020

Aims

The histopathological diagnosis of low-grade dysplasia (LGD) in Barrett’s oesophagus (BO) is associated with poor interobserver agreement and guidelines dictate expert review. To facilitate nationwide expert review in the Netherlands, a web-based digital review panel has been set up, which currently consists of eight ‘core’ pathologists. The aim of this study was to evaluate if other pathologists from the Dutch BO expert centres qualify for the expert panel by assessing their performance in 80 consecutive LGD reviews submitted to the panel.

Methods

Pathologists independently assessed digital slides in two phases. Both phases consisted of 40 cases, with a group discussion after phase I. For all cases, a previous consensus diagnosis made by five core pathologists was available, which was used as reference. The following criteria were used: (1) percentage of ‘indefinite for dysplasia’ diagnoses, (2) percentage agreement with consensus diagnosis and (3) proportion of cases with a consensus diagnosis of dysplasia underdiagnosed as non-dysplastic. Benchmarks were based on scores of the core pathologists.

Results

After phase I, 1/7 pathologists met the benchmark score for all quality criteria, yet three pathologists only marginally failed the agreement with consensus diagnosis (score 68.3%, benchmark 69%). After a group discussion and phase II, 5/6 remaining aspirant panel members qualified with all scores within the benchmark range.

Conclusions

The Dutch BO review panel now consists of 14 pathologists, who—after structured assessments and group discussions—can be considered homogeneous in their review of biopsies with LGD.
Expression of cathepsins B, D and K in thymic epithelial tumours
Authors: Yamaguchi Naoko , Tomaru Utano , Kiuchi Takayuki , Ishizu Akihiro , Deguchi Takahiro , Otsuka Noriyuki , Tanaka Satoshi , Marukawa Katsuji , Matsuno Yoshihiro , Kitagawa Masanobu , Kasahara Masanori
Published: May 2020

Aim

Cathepsins are proteases that regulate a wide range of physiological processes, including protein turnover, cell signalling and antigen presentation. Recent studies have shown that cathepsins are highly upregulated in many types of tumours. Of the 15 cathepsins in humans, cathepsins V and S are abundantly expressed in the thymus, and we previously showed that the immunostaining of these cathepsins could serve as diagnostic markers for thymic epithelial tumours. However, little is known about the expression of other cathepsins in thymic epithelial tumours. To determine the diagnostic implications of cathepsins, we performed immunohistochemical analysis of cathepsin B (CTB), cathepsin D (CTD) and cathepsin K (CTK), all of which have been reported to correlate with the progression of squamous cell carcinoma.

Methods

The association between cathepsin expression and clinicopathological features was evaluated in 122 cases of thymoma and thymic carcinoma.

Results

CTB and CTD were frequently expressed in type A and type AB thymomas. In contrast, CTB and CTD were significantly less common in type B thymomas than in type A or AB thymomas. In type AB thymomas, the expression of CTB correlated with histological features, and was found predominantly in the type A component. Notably, CTK was expressed most commonly in thymic carcinomas, and patients who died of the disease showed increased expression of CTK.

Conclusions

The expression of CTB and CTD correlated with the histological subtype of thymoma. In addition, the expression of CTK appears to be useful for the diagnosis of thymic carcinomas and as a prognostic marker.
Randomized phase II study of stereotactic body radiotherapy and interleukin-2 versus interleukin-2 in patients with metastatic melanoma
Authors: Curti Brendan , Crittenden Marka , Seung Steven K , Fountain Christopher B , Payne Roxanne , Chang ShuChing , Fleser Jessica , Phillips Kimberly , Malkasian Ian , Dobrunick Lyn B , Urba Walter J
Published: May 2020

Background

A pilot study of stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) followed by high-dose interleukin-2 (IL-2) showed a higher than anticipated objective response rate (ORR) among patients with metastatic melanoma (MM). We performed a prospective randomized study to determine if the ORR of SBRT + IL-2 was greater than IL-2 monotherapy in patients with advanced melanoma.

Methods

Patients with MM who had adequate physiological reserve for IL-2 and at least one site suitable for SBRT were eligible. There was a 1:1 randomization to SBRT + IL-2 or IL-2 monotherapy. Patients received one or two doses of SBRT (20 Gy per fraction) with the last dose administered 3 days before starting the first cycle of IL-2. IL-2 (600,000 IU per kg via intravenous bolus infusion) was given every 8 hours for a maximum of 14 doses with a second cycle after a 2-week rest. Responding patients received up to six IL-2 cycles. Patients assigned to IL-2 monotherapy who exhibited progression of melanoma after cycle 2 were allowed to crossover and receive SBRT and additional IL-2. Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors 1.1 criteria were applied to non-irradiated lesions for response assessment.

Results

44 patients were included in the analysis. The ORR in the SBRT + IL-2 group was 54%: 21% complete response (CR), 33% partial response (PR), 21% stable disease (SD) and 25% progressive disease (PD). The ORR in patients receiving IL-2 monotherapy was 35%: 15% CR, 20% PR, 25% SD and 40% PD. Seven patients assigned to IL-2 subsequently received SBRT + IL-2. One CR and two PRs were observed in the crossover group. There was no difference in progression-free or overall survival (OS). At 5 years the OS was 26% in the SBRT + IL-2 group and 25% in the IL-2 monotherapy group. The disease control rate (DCR) was higher in the SBRT + IL-2 group (75% vs 60%, p=0.34).

Conclusions

SBRT + IL-2 induced more objective responses with a higher DCR compared to IL-2 monotherapy in MM. IL-2 monotherapy resulted in a significantly higher ORR than anticipated. Some patients in the crossover group also achieved objective responses.

Trial registration number

NCT01416831.
Compensation and hazard pay for key workers during an epidemic: an argument from analogy
Authors: McConnell Doug , Wilkinson Dominic
Published: May 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has created unusually challenging and dangerous workplace conditions for key workers. This has prompted calls for key workers to receive a variety of special benefits over and above their normal pay. Here, we consider whether two such benefits are justified: a no-fault compensation scheme for harm caused by an epidemic and hazard pay for the risks and burdens of working during an epidemic. Both forms of benefit are often made available to members of the armed forces for the harms, risks and burdens that come with military service. We argue from analogy that these benefits also ought to be provided to key workers during an epidemic because, like the military, key workers face unavoidable harms, risks and burdens in providing essential public good. The amount of compensation should be proportional to the harm suffered and the amount of hazard pay should be proportional to the risk and burden endured. Therefore, key workers should receive the same amount of compensation and hazard pay as the military where the harms, risks and burdens are equivalent. In the UK, a form of no-fault compensation has recently been made available to the surviving families of key workers who suffer fatal COVID-19 infections. According to our argument, however, it is insufficient because it offers less to key workers than is made available to the families of armed services personnel killed on duty.
Differences between women and men in the relationship between psychosocial stressors at work and work absence due to mental health problem
Authors: Gilbert-Ouimet Mahée , Trudel Xavier , Aubé Karine , Ndjaboue Ruth , Duchaine Caroline , Blanchette Caty , Mâsse Benoît , Vézina Michel , Milot Alain , Brisson Chantal
Published: May 2020

Objectives

Women have a higher incidence of mental health problems compared with men. Psychosocial stressors at work are associated with mental health problems. However, few prospective studies have examined the association between these stressors and objectively measured outcomes of mental health. Moreover, evidence regarding potential differences between women and men in this association is scarce and inconsistent. This study investigates whether psychosocial stressors at work are associated with the 7.5-year incidence of medically certified work absence due to a mental health problem, separately for women and men.

Methods

Data from a prospective cohort of white-collar workers in Canada (n=7138; 47.3% women) were used. We performed Cox regression models to examine the prospective association between self-reported psychosocial stressors at work (job strain model) at baseline and the 7.5-year HR of medically certified work absence of ≥5 days due to a mental health problem.

Results

During follow-up, 11.9% of participants had a certified work absence, with a twofold higher incidence among women. Women (HR 1.40, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.93) and men (HR 1.41, 95% CI 0.97 to 2.05) exposed to high strain (high demands and low control) had a higher incidence of work absence compared with those unexposed. Among women only, those exposed to an active job situation (high demands and high control) also had a higher risk (HR 1.82, 95% CI 1.29 to 2.56).

Conclusions

Prevention efforts aimed at reducing psychosocial stressors at work could help lower the risk of work absence for both women and men. However, important differences between women and men need to be further studied in order to orient these efforts.
Advances in the management of diabetes: therapies for type 2 diabetes
Authors: Tsoutsouki Jovanna , Wunna Wunna , Chowdhury Aisha , Chowdhury Tahseen Ahmad
Published: May 2020

The incidence of type 2 diabetes is rapidly rising worldwide leading to an increasing burden of cardiovascular and microvascular complications. The aim of treatment of the condition is to improve quality of life and reduce such complications. To this end, improvement in glucose control remains an important consideration. In recent years, important therapeutic advances have occurred in the management of hyperglycaemia in people with type 2 diabetes. These include the use of dipeptidylpeptidase-4 inhibitors, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and sodium glucose transporter-2 inhibitors. The latter two classes appear to have some specific beneficial effects on cardiovascular and renal outcomes, independent of their antihyperglycaemic effects. This review aims to outline the current state of diagnosis and management of diabetes for the general physician, with a particular focus on new therapeutic agents for management of glucose in patients with type 2 diabetes.
E-HeaRT BPA: electronic health record telemetry BPA
Authors: Chin Kuo-Kai , Svec David , Leung Benjamin , Sharp Christopher , Shieh Lisa
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Continuous cardiac monitoring in non-critical care settings is expensive and overutilised. As such, it is an important target of hospital interventions to establish cost-effective, high-quality care. Since inappropriate telemetry use was persistently elevated at our institution, we devised an electronic best practice alert (BPA) and tested it in a randomised controlled fashion.

Methods

Between 4 March 2018 and 5 July 2018 at our 600-bed academic hospital, all non-critical care patients who had at least one telemetry order were randomised to the control or intervention group. The intervention group received daily BPAs if telemetry was active.

Results

275 and 283 patients were randomised to the intervention and control groups, respectively. The intervention group triggered 1042 alerts and trended toward fewer telemetry days (3.8 vs 5.0, p=0.017). The intervention group stopped telemetry 31.7% of the alerted patient-days compared with 23.3% for the control group (OR 1.53, 95% CI 1.24 to 1.88, p<0.001). There were no significant differences in length of stay, rapid responses, code blues, or mortality between the two groups.

Conclusions

Using a randomised controlled design, we show that BPAs significantly reduce telemetry without negatively affecting patient outcomes. They should have a role in promoting high-value telemetry use.
Identification of a novel ZmSBEIIb-interacting protein involved in apparent amylose synthesis
Authors: Chen Chao , Li Cong , Xie Wenjie , Zhang Jingting , Chen Wansi , Ye Zi , Liu Yudong , Long Kai
Published: May 2020

Inhibition of the maize starch branching enzyme IIb (ZmSBEIIb) significantly alters the amylose content and grain yield in maize. Only a few ZmSBEIIb-interacting proteins involved in the starch branching process have been identified, and the understanding of this mechanism is limited. We report here the successful isolation of an Anoctamin protein, ZmSIP, that binds directly to ZmSBEIIb. In our study, the detection of interaction between ZmSIP and different truncated ZmSBEIIb baits in yeast showed that the full-length ZmSBEIIb is essential for binding. The direct protein–protein interaction could also be found in co-transformed tobacco protoplasts. Moreover, knocking out the ZmSIP gene using the CRISPR/Cas9 system could effectively increase the apparent amylose content but maintain the maize kernel weight. Thus, our results suggest that ZmSIP may be involved in the ZmSBEIIb-mediated amylose synthesis pathway through its physical interaction with ZmSBEIIb.
Five-dimensional charged rotating minimally gauged supergravity black hole cannot be over-spun and/or over-charged in non-linear accretion
Authors: Shaymatov Sanjar , Dadhich Naresh , Ahmedov Bobomurat , Jamil Mubasher
Published: May 2020

Generally a black hole could be over-charged/spun, violating the weak cosmic censorship conjecture (WCCC) for linear order accretion while the same is always restored for non-linear accretion. The only exception, however, is that of a five-dimensional rotating black hole with single rotation, which cannot be overspun even at linear order. In this paper we investigate this question for a five-dimensional charged rotating minimally gauged supergravity black hole and show that it could not be overspun under non-linear accretion, thereby respecting WCCC. However, in the case of single rotation WCCC is also respected for linear accretion when the angular momentum of the accreting particle is greater than its charge irrespective of the relative dominance of the charge and rotation parameters of the black hole.
Leadership at an Entrepreneurial University: How Department Heads Manage Multiple Logics at a Scandinavian University
Authors: Tavella Elena , Bogers Marcel
Published: May 2020

Entrepreneurial universities are important drivers of technology, innovation, and economic development from which both universities and the society at large will benefit. University leaders may, however, need to manage conflicting demands posed by multiple logics in their everyday work. Drawing on interviews with university leaders at an elite Scandinavian university faculty, this paper explores how leaders balance competing logics in their everyday work so as to achieve the goals of entrepreneurial universities. The analysis of the interviews identifies mechanisms through which leaders enact different institutional logics through their practices, and how these mechanisms lead to the achievement of outcomes related to entrepreneurial activities. These findings contribute to the literature on individual-level challenges and means to align the teaching, research and entrepreneurial missions of entrepreneurial universities.
Study of non-commutative wormhole solutions in f(R,G) gravity
Authors: Farasat Shamir M. , Mustafa G. , Waseem Saad
Published: May 2020

In this paper, we investigate some feasible regions for the existence of wormholes by introducing non-commutative geometry in terms of Gaussian and Lorentzian distributions in [Formula: see text] modified theory of gravity. We explore wormhole solutions by assuming a viable model [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is assumed to be a linear function of Ricci scalar and [Formula: see text] is chosen to be a power law model. For [Formula: see text] model under discussion, we select suitable form of redshift and shape functions, which is necessary for the existence of wormholes. We discuss mainly two types of solutions corresponding to different values of free parameters and obtain numerical results. The stability condition for numerical solutions is discussed via TOV equations and it is proved that gravitational and hydrostatic forces show opposite behavior to anisotropic force and hence cancel each other’s effect, which provides a stable wormhole configuration. By using graphical evolution, it has been found that null energy conditions (NEC) are violated for non-commutative Gaussian and Lorentzian distributions. However, some feasible regions have been found for the existence of wormhole solutions with Gaussian and Lorentzian distributions in the context of [Formula: see text] gravity.
ℱ(P) quantum mechanics
Authors: Shababi Homa , Addazi Andrea
Published: May 2020

We explore the possibility to extend the Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle to a nonlinear extension of the quantum algebra related to a functional operator of the momenta as [Formula: see text]. We show that such an extension of quantum mechanics is intimately connected to the non-commutative space-time algebra and the Lorentz symmetry deformations. We show that a large class of [Formula: see text] models can introduce superluminal modes in the quantized theories. We also show that the Hořava–Lifshitz theory is related to a large class of [Formula: see text] Quantum Mechanics.
Online Optimization with Predictions and Non-convex Losses
Authors: Lin Yiheng , Goel Gautam , Wierman Adam
Published: May 2020

We study online optimization in a setting where an online learner seeks to optimize a per-round hitting cost, which may be non-convex, while incurring a movement cost when changing actions between rounds. We ask:under what general conditions is it possible for an online learner to leverage predictions of future cost functions in order to achieve near-optimal costs? Prior work has provided near-optimal online algorithms for specific combinations of assumptions about hitting and switching costs, but no general results are known. In this work, we give two general sufficient conditions that specify a relationship between the hitting and movement costs which guarantees that a new algorithm, Synchronized Fixed Horizon Control (SFHC), achieves a 1+O(1/w) competitive ratio, where w is the number of predictions available to the learner. Our conditions do not require the cost functions to be convex, and we also derive competitive ratio results for non-convex hitting and movement costs. Our results provide the first constant, dimension-free competitive ratio for online non-convex optimization with movement costs. We also give an example of a natural problem, Convex Body Chasing (CBC), where the sufficient conditions are not satisfied and prove that no online algorithm can have a competitive ratio that converges to 1.
Dynamic Weighted Fairness with Minimal Disruptions
Authors: Im Sungjin , Moseley Benjamin , Munagala Kamesh , Pruhs Kirk
Published: May 2020

In this paper, we consider the following dynamic fair allocation problem: Given a sequence of job arrivals and departures, the goal is to maintain an approximately fair allocation of the resource against a target fair allocation policy, while minimizing the total number of \em disruptions, which is the number of times the allocation of any job is changed. We consider a rich class of fair allocation policies that significantly generalize those considered in previous work. We first consider the models where jobs only arrive, or jobs only depart. We present tight upper and lower bounds for the number of disruptions required to maintain a constant approximate fair allocation every time step. In particular, for the canonical case where jobs have weights and the resource allocation is proportional to the job's weight, we show that maintaining a constant approximate fair allocation requires Θ(łog^* n) disruptions per job, almost matching the bounds in prior work for the unit weight case. For the more general setting where the allocation policy only decreases the allocation to a job when new jobs arrive, we show that maintaining a constant approximate fair allocation requires Θ(łog n) disruptions per job. We then consider the model where jobs can both arrive and depart. We first show strong lower bounds on the number of disruptions required to maintain constant approximate fairness for arbitrary instances. In contrast we then show that there there is an algorithm that can maintain constant approximate fairness with $O(1)$ expected disruptions per job if the weights of the jobs are independent of the jobs arrival and departure order. We finally show how our results can be extended to the setting with multiple resources.
On the Complexity of Traffic Traces and Implications
Authors: Avin Chen , Ghobadi Manya , Griner Chen , Schmid Stefan
Published: May 2020

This paper presents a systematic approach to identify and quantify the types of structures featured by packet traces in communication networks. Our approach leverages an information-theoretic methodology, based on iterative randomization and compression of the packet trace, which allows us to systematically remove and measure dimensions of structure in the trace. In particular, we introduce the notion of \emphtrace complexity which approximates the entropy rate of a packet trace. Considering several real-world traces, we show that trace complexity can provide unique insights into the characteristics of various applications. Based on our approach, we also propose a traffic generator model able to produce a synthetic trace that matches the complexity levels of its corresponding real-world trace. Using a case study in the context of datacenters, we show that insights into the structure of packet traces can lead to improved demand-aware network designs: datacenter topologies that are optimized for specific traffic patterns.
Alterations in pancreatic islet cell function in response to small bowel resection
Authors: Courtney Cathleen M. , Shyr Zeenat A. , Yan Zihan , Onufer Emily Jean , Steinberger Allie E. , Tecos Maria E. , Barron Lauren K. , Guo Jun , Remedi Maria S. , Warner Brad W.
Published: May 2020

Metabolic changes occur following intestinal resection; however, the effects on pancreatic function are unknown. Prior studies have demonstrated that glucagon-like protein-1 (GLP-1) signaling is a crucial player in the improved insulin sensitivity after bariatric surgery. In this study, we explore the effect of massive small bowel resection on gut hormone physiology and provide novel insights into the enteropancreatic axis.