bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of Simpson grading in meningiomas after integration of the updated WHO classification and adjuvant radiotherapy
Authors: Behling Felix , Fodi Christina , Hoffmann Elgin , Renovanz Mirjam , Skardelly Marco , Tabatabai Ghazaleh , Schittenhelm Jens , Honegger Jürgen , Tatagiba Marcos
Published: October 2020

Since the introduction of the Simpson grading for the extent of resection in meningiomas in 1957, its usefulness in modern neurosurgery has been challenged. Especially, the updated WHO classification regarding brain invasion and the efficacy of radiation therapy has not been taken into account when evaluating the prognostic role of the Simpson grading in this era. We analyzed the clinical and histopathological data of 1571 meningiomas that were surgically resected in the authors’ institution between July 2003 and March 2017. Operative reports were reviewed regarding the extent of resection according to Simpson grading. Meningioma subtype according to the updated WHO classification of 2016 and clinical characteristics and time to tumor progression were analyzed. The mean follow-up was 38.4 months (range 1.2 to 195.6). A higher rate of tumor recurrence was observed for male gender, younger age, recurrent tumors, non-spinal tumor localization, higher WHO, and Simpson grades in the univariate analysis. In the multivariate analysis older age, recurrent tumors and higher WHO grades remained negative prognostic factors. Among the different Simpson grades, the relative risk for recurrence was highest for grade IV compared to all other grades (each p < 0.0001), while there was no difference between Simpson grades I and II. Adjuvant radiotherapy showed lower rates of tumor recurrence. Subtotal microsurgical resection remains an independent prognostic factor with a higher rate of tumor recurrence. The prognostic benefit of radical treatment of the dural attachment is questionable and needs to be considered when weighing the intraoperative risks of radicality.
A phase 3 multicenter open-label maintenance study to investigate the long-term safety of sodium zirconium cyclosilicate in Japanese subjects with hyperkalemia
Authors: Kashihara Naoki , Yamasaki Yoshimitsu , Osonoi Takeshi , Harada Hiromasa , Shibagaki Yugo , Zhao June , Kim Hyosung , Yajima Toshitaka , Sarai Nobuaki
Published: October 2020

Background

Hyperkalemia is associated with many chronic diseases and renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitor therapy. Sodium zirconium cyclosilicate (SZC), an oral, highly selective cation-exchanger, is approved for the treatment of hyperkalemia.

Methods

This phase 3, multicenter, open-label, single-arm, flexible-dose study assessed the safety and efficacy of SZC in Japanese patients with hyperkalemia during a correction phase of up to 3 days and long-term (1 year) maintenance phase (NCT03172702).

Results

Overall, 150 patients received treatment during both study phases; the study population was generally representative of hyperkalemic Japanese patients in clinical practice. Most patients (78.7%) had three doses of SZC during the correction phase. All but one patient received SZC for ≤ 48 h before transitioning to the maintenance phase. In the maintenance phase, mean (standard deviation; SD) exposure to the study drug was 319.4 (98.1) days and mean (SD) dose was 7.38 (2.85) g/day. Adverse events (AEs) were reported in 131 patients (87.3%); most were mild. The most common treatment-related AEs as evaluated by investigators were constipation (6.7%), peripheral edema (4.0%), and hypertension (2.7%). In the correction phase, 78.7% of patients were normokalemic at 24 h and 98.7% within 48 h; ≥ 65.5% maintained normokalemia throughout the maintenance phase.

Conclusion

After a year of exposure, SZC treatment was well tolerated by Japanese patients and potassium levels were well controlled.
The Temporal Fine Structure of Background Noise Determines the Benefit of Bimodal Hearing for Recognizing Speech
Authors: Stronks H. C. , Briaire J. J. , Frijns J. H. M.
Published: October 2020

Cochlear implant (CI) users have more difficulty understanding speech in temporally modulated noise than in steady-state (SS) noise. This is thought to be caused by the limited low-frequency information that CIs provide, as well as by the envelope coding in CIs that discards the temporal fine structure (TFS). Contralateral amplification with a hearing aid, referred to as bimodal hearing, can potentially provide CI users with TFS cues to complement the envelope cues provided by the CI signal. In this study, we investigated whether the use of a CI alone provides access to only envelope cues and whether acoustic amplification can provide additional access to TFS cues. To this end, we evaluated speech recognition in bimodal listeners, using SS noise and two amplitude-modulated noise types, namely babble noise and amplitude-modulated steady-state (AMSS) noise. We hypothesized that speech recognition in noise depends on the envelope of the noise, but not on its TFS when listening with a CI. Secondly, we hypothesized that the amount of benefit gained by the addition of a contralateral hearing aid depends on both the envelope and TFS of the noise. The two amplitude-modulated noise types decreased speech recognition more effectively than SS noise. Against expectations, however, we found that babble noise decreased speech recognition more effectively than AMSS noise in the CI-only condition. Therefore, we rejected our hypothesis that TFS is not available to CI users. In line with expectations, we found that the bimodal benefit was highest in babble noise. However, there was no significant difference between the bimodal benefit obtained in SS and AMSS noise. Our results suggest that a CI alone can provide TFS cues and that bimodal benefits in noise depend on TFS, but not on the envelope of the noise.
Real Convergence Across the Euro Area
Authors: Coutinho Leonor , Turrini Alessandro
Published: October 2020

This paper studies the relationship between real convergence in the euro area and macroeconomic imbalances. It compares the main features of convergence within the euro area with other EU and non-EU country groups, looking at both ‘sigma’ and ‘beta’ convergence in output and total factor productivity. Expected convergence paths for euro area countries are estimated using growth regressions run on a large panel of advanced and emerging market economies and compared to actual growth. The findings support the view that EU and euro area countries display similar convergence patterns to those of other country groups, while the group of countries that adopted the euro first exhibit relatively weak convergence since before the financial crisis. Such differences could be partly linked to relatively low dispersion in per capita incomes across this country group, although lack of convergence is also largely due to persisting differences in total factor productivity performance. The findings also suggest that macroeconomic imbalances accumulated in the pre-crisis period such as high private and government debt and strong growth in the non-tradable sector have been associated with lower convergence, particularly for euro area countries.
The Impact of Structural Funds on Regional Growth: A Panel Data Spatial Analysis
Authors: Antunes Micaela , Viegas Miguel , Varum Celeste , Pinho Carlos
Published: October 2020

The European Union is one of the most prosperous areas of the world. However, huge disparities remain among its member states and regions. Given the persistence of those large regional inequalities, it is pertinent to analyse the efficiency of structural funds. In light of the neoclassical theory, these funds should contribute to improving the economic efficiency among the poorest regions, promoting regional convergence. However, the new economic geography states that structural funds may also facilitate the geographic concentration of economic activities, thus perpetuating regional imbalances. This article measures the impact of structural funds on regional convergence using a spatial econometric approach applied to an extended sample of European regions across a long time interval. Based on data for 96 EU regions during the period 1995–2009, a Durbin model with panel data is estimated in order to capture the effects of spatial dependence in both the lagged dependent variable and the independent variables. The results confirm the existence of conditional convergence and the importance of neighbourhood and spillover effects but do not detect the existence of positive impacts from structural funds.
Von der Grundrente zum Lebenserwartungsfaktor
Authors: Raffelhüschen Bernd , Seuffert Stefan
Published: October 2020

In Zeiten der gesellschaftlichen Alterung befindet sich die Rentenpolitik im Zwiespalt zwischen politisch opportunen Leistungsausweitungen und fiskalischer Nachhaltigkeit. Die langfristigen fiskalischen Auswirkungen von leistungsausweitenden Maßnahmen und eine generationengerechte Ausgestaltung der Rentenversicherung lassen sich anhand der Methodik der Generationenbilanzierung quantifizieren. Die langfristigen Kosten der „Rente mit 63“ und des Grundrentenkompromisses entsprechen einer Nachhaltigkeitslücke von zusammen knapp 10 % des Bruttoinlandprodukts. Es zeigt sich, dass der Grundrentenkompromiss die wichtigsten Fundamentalprinzipien der Sozialpolitik bricht. Im Sinne der intergenerativen Gleichbehandlung wäre der dynamische Lebenserwartungsfaktor zur automatischen Anpassung des Renteneintrittsalters an die Entwicklung der Lebenserwartung sinnvoll.
Exploring the Use of Oral Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Among Women from Durban, South Africa as Part of the HIV Prevention Package in a Clinical Trial
Authors: Beesham Ivana , Heffron Renee , Evans Shannon , Baeten Jared M. , Smit Jenni , Beksinska Mags , Mansoor Leila E.
Published: October 2020

HIV endpoint-driven clinical trials in Africa enroll women who are at heightened risk of acquiring HIV. In 2017, the South African Medical Research Council recommended the provision of oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in HIV prevention trials, at which time the Evidence for Contraceptive Options and HIV Outcomes trial was ongoing and began to provide PrEP on-site at some trial sites. We interviewed 132 women who initiated PrEP on-site at the Durban, South Africa trial site to explore PrEP use, and conducted phone-based interviews 4–6 months post-trial exit to explore post-trial PrEP access. PrEP uptake was high (42.6%). Among women initiating PrEP on-site, 87.9% felt at risk of acquiring HIV. Most women (> 90%) heard of PrEP for the first time from study staff and three-quarters who initiated PrEP on-site continued at trial-exit. PrEP use declined post-trial exit with more than 50% of women discontinuing PrEP, and barriers relating to access emerged.
Implementing a patient decision aid, a process evaluation of a large-scale pre- and post-implementation trial
Authors: Raphael Daniela D. B. , Russell N. S. , van Werkhoven E. , Immink J. M. , Westhoff D. P. G. , Stenfert Kroese M. C. , Stam M. R. , van Maurik L. M. , van Gestel C. M. J. , van der Weijden T. , Boersma L. J.
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Patient decision aids (PtDAs) have been reported to have a positive influence on patients making a health care decision in trials. Nevertheless, post-trial implementation is poor. The aim of this study is to explore patient, clinician, and organizational success factors for implementing a PtDA designed for breast cancer patients, facing a decision on their radiation treatment.

Methods

We performed a process evaluation within a multi-center pre- and post-implementation trial. The PtDA was incorporated as much as possible in the logistics of 13 participating centers. Tracking data were collected on PtDA use. Process characteristics were recorded by both clinicians and patients. A logistic regression method was applied to investigate which process characteristics were significantly related to the probability that patients logged in to the PtDA.

Results

189 patients received the PtDA of whom140 (77%) used the PtDA. If patients received the link via the surgery department they were more likely to use the PtDA (OR 9.77 (1.28–74.51)), compared to patients that received the link via the radiation oncology department. If the report of the multidisciplinary team stated that radiation treatment “had to be discussed with the patient”, patients were more likely to use the PtDA (OR 2.29 (1.12–4.71)). Educational level was not related to the probability of PtDA use.

Conclusions

We accomplished a high level of PtDA use. Patients were more likely to use the PtDA if they received the link via the surgery department and if “to be discussed with the patient” was written in the multidisciplinary team report.
Effects of Levosimendan on cardiac function, size and strain in heart failure patients
Authors: Beitzke D. , Gremmel F. , Senn D. , Laggner R. , Kammerlander A. , Wielandner A. , Nolz R. , Hülsmann M. , Loewe C.
Published: October 2020

Levosimendan improves cardiac function in heart failure populations; however, its exact mechanism is not well defined. We analysed the short-term impact of levosimendan in heart failure patients with ischemic and non-ischemic cardiomyopathy (CMP) using multiparametric cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). We identified 33 patients with ischemic or non-ischemic CMP who received two consecutive CMR scans prior to and within one week after levosimendan administration. Changes in LV ejection fraction (LVEF) and LV volumes, as well as changes in strain rates, were measured prior to and within one week after levosimendan infusion. LV scarring, based on late gadolinium enhancement (LGE), was correlated to changes in LV size and strain rates. Both LV endiastolic (EDV) and endsystolic volumes (ESV) significantly decreased (EDV: p=0,001; ESV: p=0,002) after levosimendan administration, with no significant impact on LVEF (p=0.41), cardiac output (p=0.61), and strain rates. Subgroup analyses of ischemic or non-ischemic CMP showed no significant differences between the groups in terms of short-term LV reverse remodeling. The presence and extent of scarring in LGE did not correlate with changes in LV size and strain rates. CMR is able to monitor cardiac effects of levosimendan infusion. Short-term follow-up of a single levosimendan infusion using CMR shows a significant decrease in LV size, but no impact on LVEF or strain measurements. There was no difference between patients with ischemic or non-ischemic CMP. Quantification of LV scarring in CMR is not able to predict changes in LV size and strain rates in response to levosimendan.
New method for determining the degree of fibrillation of regenerated cellulose fibres
Authors: Ma Yibo , Rissanen Marja , You Xiang , Moriam Kaniz , Hummel Michael , Sixta Herbert
Published: October 2020

In this study, we propose a convenient method for testing the fibrillation tendency of man-made cellulosic fibres (MMCFs) and investigate the possibility to apply a commercial crosslinker for Tencel fibres on the ionic liquid-based regenerated cellulosic fibre (Ioncell fibre). The fibrillation tendency of various MMCFs including viscose, Modal, Tencel and Ioncell fibres were examined through wet abrasion by using ball bearing and blending methods. The fibrillation tests using a laboratory blender was found to be a superior method over the ball bearing method in terms of time and energy saving. The fibrillation tendency of the fibres highly depended on their cellulose molecular orientation and the treatment intensity (time, temperature and alkalinity) in the blender. This fibrillation method was also applied to discover the effect of the crosslinking on the fibrillation tendency of the fibres. The Ioncell fibre proved to be suitable for crosslinking treatment to reduce fibrillation using 1,3,5-triacryloyl-hexahydro-1,3,5-triazine (TAHT)—a commercial Tencel crosslinker.
When Power Plants Leave Town: Environmental Quality and the Housing Market in China
Authors: Deng Guoying , Hernandez Manuel A. , Xu Shu
Published: October 2020

Air pollution is a major environmental issue in China. This paper exploits the relocation of two major power plants in a large Chinese city as a quasi-natural experiment to examine the effect of changes in the quality of the environment on the housing market. We use an extensive transaction dataset of new apartment units in the affected and neighboring areas. We find that the plants’ closure is associated with a 12–14% increase in prices and 13–31% rise in the volume of transactions in neighborhoods within five kilometers of the plants. We further observe a higher change in prices among more expensive houses. The estimated monthly aggregate effect of the closures on the local housing market is over 50 million US dollars during the first 2 years after the relocations.
Responsible innovation in synthetic biology in response to COVID-19: the role of data positionality
Authors: Bruynseels Koen
Published: October 2020

Synthetic biology, as an engineering approach to biological systems, has the potential to disruptively innovate the development of vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics. Data accessibility and differences in data-usage capabilities are important factors in shaping this innovation landscape. In this paper, the data that underpin synthetic biology responses to the COVID-19 pandemic are analyzed as positional information goods—goods whose value depends on exclusivity. The positionality of biological data impacts the ability to guide innovations toward societally preferred goals. From both an ethical and economic point of view, positionality can lead to suboptimal as well as beneficial situations. When aiming for responsible innovation (i.e. embedding societal deliberation in the innovation process), it is important to consider hurdles and facilitators in data access and use. Central governance and knowledge commons provide routes to mitigate the negative effects of data positionality.
Identification and management of Lynch syndrome in the Middle East and North African countries: outcome of a survey in 12 countries
Authors: Sina Mohammad , Ghorbanoghli Zeinab , Abedrabbo Amal , Al-Mulla Fahd , Sghaier Rihab Ben , Buisine Marie-Pierre , Cortas George , Goshayeshi Ladan , Hadjisavvas Andreas , Hammoudeh Wail , Hamoudi Waseem , Jabari Carol , Loizidou Maria A. , Majidzadeh-A Keivan , Marafie Makia J. , Muslumov Gurbankhan , Rifai Laila , Seir Rania Abu , Talaat Suzan M. , Tunca Berrin , Ziada-Bouchaar Hadia , Velthuizen Mary E. , Sharara Ala I. , Ahadova Aysel , Georgiou Demetra , Vasen Hans F. A. ,   on behalf of the Middle East Network on Hereditary Colorectal Cancer (HCCN-ME)
Published: October 2020

Background

Lynch syndrome (LS), the most common inherited form of colorectal cancer (CRC), is responsible for 3% of all cases of CRC. LS is caused by a mismatch repair gene defect and is characterized by a high risk for CRC, endometrial cancer and several other cancers. Identification of LS is of utmost importance because colonoscopic surveillance substantially improves a patient’s prognosis. Recently, a network of physicians in Middle Eastern and North African (ME/NA) countries was established to improve the identification and management of LS families. The aim of the present survey was to evaluate current healthcare for families with LS in this region.

Methods

A questionnaire was developed that addressed the following issues: availability of clinical management guidelines for LS; attention paid to family history of cancer; availability of genetic services for identification and diagnosis of LS; and assessment of knowledge of LS surveillance. Members of the network and authors of recent papers on LS from ME/NA and neighbouring countries were invited to participate in the survey and complete the online questionnaire.

Results

A total of 55 individuals were invited and 19 respondents from twelve countries including Algeria, Azerbaijan, Cyprus, Egypt, Iran, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Morocco, Palestine, Tunisia, and Turkey completed the questionnaire. The results showed that family history of CRC is considered in less than half of the surveyed countries. Guidelines for the management of LS are available in three out of twelve countries. The identification and selection of families for genetic testing were based on clinical criteria (Amsterdam criteria II or Revised Bethesda criteria) in most countries, and only one country performed universal screening. In most of the surveyed countries genetic services were available in few hospitals or only in a research setting. However, surveillance of LS families was offered in the majority of countries and most frequently consisted of regular colonoscopy.

Conclusion

The identification and management of LS in ME/NA countries are suboptimal and as a result most LS families in the region remain undetected. Future efforts should focus on increasing awareness of LS amongst both the general population and doctors, and on the improvement of the infrastructure in these countries.
Effects of photoperiod and light spectra on growth and pigment composition of the green macroalga Codium tomentosum
Authors: Marques Rúben , Cruz Sónia , Calado Ricardo , Lillebø Ana , Abreu Helena , Pereira Rui , Pitarma Bárbara , da Silva Jorge Marques , Cartaxana Paulo
Published: October 2020

Codium tomentosum is a marine green macroalga with multiple value-added applications that is being successfully used as an extractive species in sustainable integrated multi-trophic aquaculture systems. Nonetheless, growth conditions of this species at an early development phase still require optimization. The present study addresses, under controlled laboratory conditions, the effects of photoperiod (long vs. short-day) and light spectra (white, blue, and red light) on growth and pigment composition of C. tomentosum. Relative growth rate was approximately 2× higher under long-day photoperiod (average of 39.2 and 20.1% week−1 for long and short-day, respectively). Concentrations per dry weight of major pigments such as chlorophyll a (Chla) and siphonoxanthin (Siph) were significantly higher under long-day photoperiod. Relative growth rates were higher under red light, intermediate under white light, and lower under blue light. These last results were rather surprising, as Siph-Chla/Chlb light harvesting complexes of Codium have increased absorption in the blue-green region of the light spectra. Changes in carbon allocation patterns caused by the spectral composition of light and overgrowth of green microalgae in blue light cultures could explain the differences recorded for relative growth rate. Long-day photoperiod and light sources with preferential emission at the red region of the light spectra were identified as optimal for growth of C. tomentosum at early development stages. These lighting conditions can reduce the time required to reach the necessary biomass before transfer to grow-out systems. Overall, these findings can shorten production time, increase macroalgal productivity, and enhance aquaculture revenues.
CPS Based Liquid Metal Divertor Target for EU-DEMO
Authors: Roccella S. , Dose G. , de Luca R. , Iafrati M. , Mancini A. , Mazzitelli G.
Published: October 2020

Power exhaust is a key mission in the roadmap to the realization of a future fusion reactor. Among the different solutions, the use of liquid metals as plasma facing materials are of interest due to their potential increased lifetime. Several liquid metal limiters have been successfully tested in the Frascati Tokamak Upgrade over the last 10 years. Liquid materials such as lithium and tin have been investigated using capillary porous systems (CPSs), and their impact on plasma performance has been explored. From such experience, a liquid metal divertor (LMD) concept design, CPS-based, is here proposed. Tin has been preferred as plasma facing material. The proposed LMD would operate, in low evaporative regime, with matching heat exhausting capabilities to those of the baseline ITER-like divertor. Continuous refilling of the CPS is guaranteed with a reservoir at the back of the unit, where the metal is kept liquid through a gas heating circuit. The study has been carried out using ANSYS and the thermal results will be shown. All the design choices are compatible with the current materials and the constraints adopted for the DEMO W divertor. Using such configuration, thermal loads up to 20 MW/m2 are exhausted while keeping the surface temperature below 1250 °C. The design foresees values of pressure, temperature and flow rate of the water coolant in the same range expected for the W DEMO divertor, thus facilitating the integration of such solution in the current cassette design. Technological and practical aspects are addressed, i.e. tin corrosion and CPS wettability. Possible solutions to prevent tin corrosion, and its compatibility with structural materials, will be outlined.
MSC-AS1 knockdown inhibits cell growth and temozolomide resistance by regulating miR-373-3p/CPEB4 axis in glioma through PI3K/Akt pathway
Authors: Li Chong , Feng Shiyu , Chen Ling
Published: October 2020

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been widely reported to regulate the development and chemoresistance of a variety of tumors. Temozolomide (TMZ) is a first-line chemotherapy for treatment of glioma. However, the effect and the regulatory mechanism of lncRNA MSC-AS1 (MSC-AS1) in TMZ-resistant glioma remain unrevealed. Levels of MSC-AS1, microRNA-373-3p (miR-373-3p), and cytoplasmic polyadenylation element binding protein 4 (CPEB4) were determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). All protein expression was detected by western blot. Cell viability and the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of TMZ was assessed by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Cell cloning ability and apoptosis were examined by colony formation and flow cytometry assays, respectively. Dual-luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays were performed to verify the correlation between miR-373-3p and MSC-AS1 or CPEB4. The xenograft models were established to determine the effect of MSC-AS1 in vivo. MSC-AS1 was up-regulated in TMZ-resistant glioma tissues and cells, and glioma patients with high MSC-AS1 expression tend to have lower overall survival rate. MSC-AS1 suppression reduced the IC50 value of TMZ and proliferation, promoted apoptosis and TMZ sensitivity, and affected PI3K/Akt pathway in TMZ-resistant glioma cells. MSC-AS1 acted as miR-373-3p sponge, and miR-373-3p directly targeted CPEB4. Silencing miR-373-3p reversed the promoting effect of MSC-AS1 or CPEB4 knockdown on TMZ sensitivity. Furthermore, MSC-AS1 knockdown inhibited TMZ-resistant glioma growth in vivo by regulating miR-373-3p/CPEB4 axis through PI3K/Akt pathway. Collectively, MSC-AS1 knockdown suppressed cell growth and the chemoresistance of glioma cells to TMZ by regulating miR-373-3p/CPEB4 axis in vitro and in vivo through activating PI3K/Akt pathway.
Iterative arrays with finite inter-cell communication
Authors: Kutrib Martin , Malcher Andreas
Published: October 2020

Iterative arrays whose internal inter-cell communication is quantitatively restricted are investigated. The quantity of communication is measured by counting the number of uses of the links between cells. In particular, iterative arrays are studied where the maximum number of communications per cell occurring in accepting computations is drastically bounded by a constant number. Additionally, the iterative arrays have to work in realtime. We study the computational capacity of such devices. For example, a result is that a strict and dense hierarchy with respect to the constant number of communications exists. Due to their very restricted communication, the question arises whether the usually studied decidability problems such as, for example, emptiness, finiteness, inclusion, or equivalence become decidable for such devices. However, it can be shown that all such decidability questions remain undecidable even if only four communications per cell are allowed. Finally, the undecidability results are shown to hold as well for one-way and two-way cellular automata having at most four communications per cell.
Numerical and experimental analysis of the bi-stable state for frictional continuous system
Authors: Tonazzi D. , Passafiume M. , Papangelo A. , Hoffmann N. , Massi F.
Published: October 2020

Unstable friction-induced vibrations are considered an annoying problem in several fields of engineering. Although several theoretical analyses have suggested that friction-excited dynamical systems may experience sub-critical bifurcations, and show multiple coexisting stable solutions, these phenomena need to be proved experimentally and on continuous systems. The present work aims to partially fill this gap. The dynamical response of a continuous system subjected to frictional excitation is investigated. The frictional system is constituted of a 3D printed oscillator, obtained by additive manufacturing that slides against a disc rotating at a prescribed velocity. Both a finite element model and an experimental setup has been developed. It is shown both numerically and experimentally that in a certain range of the imposed sliding velocity the oscillator has two stable states, i.e. steady sliding and stick–slip oscillations. Furthermore, it is possible to jump from one state to the other by introducing an external perturbation. A parametric analysis is also presented, with respect to the main parameters influencing the nonlinear dynamic response, to determine the interval of sliding velocity where the oscillator presents the two stable solutions, i.e. steady sliding and stick–slip limit cycle.
On the optimization of n-sub-step composite time integration methods
Authors: Zhang Huimin , Zhang Runsen , Xing Yufeng , Masarati Pierangelo
Published: October 2020

A family of n-sub-step composite time integration methods, which employs the trapezoidal rule in the first $$n-1$$

n
-
1

sub-steps and a general formula in the last one, is discussed in this paper. A universal approach to optimize the parameters is provided for any cases of $$n\ge 2$$

n
≥
2

, and two optimal sub-families of the method are given for different purposes. From linear analysis, the first sub-family can achieve nth-order accuracy and unconditional stability with controllable algorithmic dissipation, so it is recommended for high-accuracy purposes. The second sub-family has second-order accuracy, unconditional stability with controllable algorithmic dissipation, and it is designed for heuristic energy-conserving purposes, by preserving as much low-frequency content as possible. Finally, some illustrative examples are solved to check the performance in linear and nonlinear systems.
Quality of life of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients under brace treatment: a brief communication of literature review
Authors: Wang Huan , Tetteroo Daniel , Arts J. J. Chris , Markopoulos Panos , Ito Keita
Published: October 2020

Purpose

To identify the life domains that are most frequently reported to be affected in scoliosis patients undergoing brace treatment.

Methods

A search within the PubMed database was conducted and a total of 60 publications were selected. We classified the studies based on the methods used to measure patients’ quality of life (QoL) and categorized the life domains reported to be affected.

Results

Self-image/body configuration was the most reported affected domain of patients’ QoL, identified in 32 papers, whilst mental health/stress was the second most reported affected domain. Mental health was identified in 11 papers, and 11 papers using the BSSQ questionnaire reported medium stress amongst their participants. Vitality was the third most reported affected domain, identified in 12 papers.

Conclusions

Our review indicates that scoliotic adolescents treated with bracing suffer in their quality of life most from psychological burdens. To improve these patients’ life quality, more attention should be focussed on supporting their mental health.
PET/CT Imaging of 89Zr-N-sucDf-Pembrolizumab in Healthy Cynomolgus Monkeys
Authors: Li Wenping , Wang Yuchuan , Rubins Daniel , Bennacef Idriss , Holahan Marie , Haley Hyking , Purcell Mona , Gantert Liza , Hseih SuChun , Judo Michael , Seghezzi Wolfgang , Zhang Shuli , van der Veen Elly L. , Lub-de Hooge Marjolijn N. , de Vries Elisabeth G.E. , Evelhoch Jeffrey L. , Klimas Michael , Hostetler Eric D.
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Programmed cell death-1 receptor (PD-1) and its ligand (PD-L1) are the targets for immunotherapy in many cancer types. Although PD-1 blockade has therapeutic effects, the efficacy differs between patients. Factors contributing to this variability are PD-L1 expression levels and immune cells present in tumors. However, it is not well understood how PD-1 expression in the tumor microenvironment impacts immunotherapy response. Thus, imaging of PD-1-expressing immune cells is of interest. This study aims to evaluate the biodistribution of Zirconium-89 (89Zr)-labeled pembrolizumab, a humanized IgG4 kappa monoclonal antibody targeting PD-1, in healthy cynomolgus monkeys as a translational model of tracking PD-1-positive immune cells.

Procedures

Pembrolizumab was conjugated with the tetrafluorophenol-N-succinyl desferal-Fe(III) ester (TFP-N-sucDf) and subsequently radiolabeled with 89Zr. Four cynomolgus monkeys with no previous exposure to humanized monoclonal antibodies received tracer only or tracer co-injected with pembrolizumab intravenously over 5 min. Thereafter, a static whole-body positron emission tomography (PET) scan was acquired with 10 min per bed position on days 0, 2, 5, and 7. Image-derived standardized uptake values (SUVmean) were quantified by region of interest (ROI) analysis.

Results

89Zr-N-sucDf-pembrolizumab was synthesized with high radiochemical purity (> 99 %) and acceptable molar activity (> 7 MBq/nmol). In animals dosed with tracer only, 89Zr-N-sucDf-pembrolizumab distribution in lymphoid tissues such as mesenteric lymph nodes, spleen, and tonsils increased over time. Except for the liver, low radiotracer distribution was observed in all non-lymphoid tissue including the lung, muscle, brain, heart, and kidney. When a large excess of pembrolizumab was co-administered with a radiotracer, accumulation in the lymph nodes, spleen, and tonsils was reduced, suggestive of target-mediated accumulation.

Conclusions

89Zr-N-sucDf-pembrolizumab shows preferential uptake in the lymphoid tissues including the lymph nodes, spleen, and tonsils. 89Zr-N-sucDf-pembrolizumab may be useful in tracking the distribution of a subset of immune cells in non-human primates and humans.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02760225
Is Free Speech in Danger on University Campus? Some Preliminary Evidence from a Most Likely Case
Authors: Revers Matthias , Traunmüller Richard
Published: October 2020

Although universities play a key role in questions of free speech and political viewpoint diversity, they are often associated with the opposite of a free exchange of ideas: a proliferation of restrictive campus speech codes, violent protests against controversial speakers and even the firing of inconvenient professors. For some observers these trends on university campuses are a clear indicator of the dire future for freedom of speech. Others view these incidents as scandalized singular events and regard campus intolerance as a mere myth. We take an empirical look at some of the claims in the debate and present original survey evidence from a most likely case: the leftist social science studentship at Goethe University Frankfurt. Our results show that taking offense is a common experience and that a sizable number of students are in favor of restricting speech on campus. We also find evidence for conformity pressures on campus and that both the desire to restrict speech and the reluctance to speak openly differ significantly across political ideology. Left-leaning students are less likely to tolerate controversial viewpoints and right-leaning students are more likely to self-censor on politically sensitive issues such as gender, immigration, or sexual and ethnic minorities. Although preliminary, these findings may have implications for the social sciences and academia more broadly.
Jung, feindselig, rechts!? Menschenfeindliche, rechtspopulistische und -extreme Orientierungen im intergenerativen Vergleich
Authors: Zick Andreas , Berghan Wilhelm , Mokros Nico
Published: October 2020

Im Hinblick auf den Umgang mit Rechtsextremismus und anderen antidemokratischen Orientierungen ist zu beobachten, dass diese häufig als ‚Jugendproblem‘ wahrgenommen und verhandelt werden. Insbesondere, wenn rechtsextreme Straftaten von Heranwachsenden verübt werden. Große Teile pädagogischer Praxis der Demokratieförderung und Rechtsextremismusprävention richten sich an junge Menschen bzw. junge Erwachsene und auch die erziehungswissenschaftliche Forschung behandelt traditionell Rechtsextremismus in weiten Teilen im Rahmen der Jugendforschung. Selten wird die Frage gestellt, ob es tatsächlich eine empirisch nachweisbare Konzentration antidemokratischer Orientierungen in dieser Altersgruppe gibt. Dies zu wissen, wäre für Grundfragen nach den Bedingungen und Möglichkeiten politischer Sozialisation und Bildung relevant und ebenso wäre es fatal, wenn angesichts der Häufung bestimmter Phänomene in einer demografischen Gruppe ein Stereotyp in die Forschung einzieht. Der Beitrag hat daher ein recht einfaches Anliegen. Er stellt empirische Beobachtungen aus einer aktuellen bevölkerungsrepräsentativen Umfrage bereit und prüft statistisch, ob es zwischen menschenfeindlichen, rechtspopulistischen und rechtsextremen Einstellungen, die Orientierungen bilden, Unterscheide zwischen Altersgruppen gibt. Die Analyse zeigt, dass 18- bis 30-Jährige im Vergleich zu älteren Generationen zwar einzelnen rechtsextremen Einstellungsdimensionen auffallend zustimmen, nicht jedoch in der ganzen Breite menschenfeindlicher Einstellungen. In Bezug auf diese zeigen Ältere höhere Zustimmung. Die Auswertungen legen nahe, die Fokussierung auf jüngere Altersgruppen und ihre politische Sozialisation viel enger und genauer in den Kontext der empirisch beobachtbaren gesellschaftlichen Stimmungen zu setzen.
Improvements in Diabetic Neuropathy and Nephropathy After Bariatric Surgery: a Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Adam Safwaan , Azmi Shazli , Ho Jan H. , Liu Yifen , Ferdousi Maryam , Siahmansur Tarza , Kalteniece Alise , Marshall Andrew , Dhage Shaishav S. , Iqbal Zohaib , D’Souza Yvonne , Natha Salim , Kalra Philip A. , Donn Rachelle , Ammori Basil J. , Syed Akheel A. , Durrington Paul N. , Malik Rayaz A. , Soran Handrean
Published: October 2020

Purpose

There are limited data on the impact of bariatric surgery on microvascular complications of type 2 diabetes (T2D), particularly diabetic neuropathy. We assessed microvascular complications (especially neuropathy) in obese patients with T2D before and 12 months after bariatric surgery.

Materials and Methods

This was a prospective observational cohort study. Measurements of neuropathy symptom profile (NSP), neuropathy disability score (NDS), vibration (VPT), cold (CPT) and warm (WPT) perception thresholds, nerve conduction studies (NCS) and corneal confocal microscopy (CCM) to quantify corneal nerve fibre density (CNFD), branch density (CNBD) and fibre length (CNFL); urinary albumin/creatinine ratio (uACR), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFRcyst-creat) and retinal grading were taken.

Results

Twenty-six (62% female; median age 52 years) obese patients with T2D were recruited. Body mass index (BMI) (47.2 to 34.5 kg/m2; p < 0.001) decreased post-operatively. There were improvements in CNFD (27.1 to 29.2/mm2; p = 0.005), CNBD (63.4 to 77.8/mm2; p = 0.008), CNFL (20.0 to 20.2/mm2; p = 0.001), NSP (3 to 0/38; p < 0.001) and eGFRcyst-creat (128 to 120 ml/min; p = 0.015) post-bariatric surgery. Changes in (Δ) triglycerides were independently associated with ΔCNFL (β = − 0.53; p = 0.024) and Δsystolic blood pressure (β = 0.62;p = 0.017), and %excess BMI loss (β = − 0.004; p = 0.018) were associated with ΔeGFRcyst-creat. There was no significant change in NDS, VPT, CPT, WPT, NCS, uACR or retinopathy status. Glomerular hyperfiltration resolved in 42% of the 12 patients with this condition pre-operatively.

Conclusion

Bariatric surgery results in improvements in small nerve fibres and glomerular hyperfiltration in obese people with T2D, which were associated with weight loss, triglycerides and systolic blood pressure, but with no change in retinopathy or uACR at 12 months.
Assessing coastal carbon variability in two Delaware tidal marshes
Authors: St. Laurent Kari A. , Hribar Daniel J. , Carlson Annette J. , Crawford Calyn M. , Siok Drexel
Published: October 2020

Coastal wetlands provide numerous ecosystem services, including the ability to sequester and store carbon. Recent initiatives, such as the U.S. Climate Alliance’s National Working Lands Challenge, have sought to better understand and quantify this ‘blue carbon’ storage as a land management approach to maintain, or potentially offset, atmospheric carbon emissions. To build on this effort locally, loss on ignition and elemental analyses were used to assess sediment organic matter, dry bulk density, and carbon density variability within the root zone of a mesohaline and oligohaline tidal marsh in Delaware. Additionally, we assessed sediment carbon variability at depth greater than one meter and quantified the black carbon fraction in the mesohaline tidal marsh. Organic matter concentrations ranged between 11.85 ± 1.19% and 23.12 ± 6.15% and sediment carbon density ranged from 0.03 ± 0.01 g cm−3to 0.06 ± 0.02 g cm−3with both found to significantly differ between the mesohaline and oligohaline tidal marsh systems. Significant differences between dominant vegetation types were also found. We used these data to further estimate and valuate the carbon stock at the mesohaline tidal marsh to be 350 ± 310 metric tons of soil carbon accumulation per year with a social carbon value of $40,000 ± $35,000. This work improves our knowledge of Delaware-specific carbon stocks, and it may further facilitate broad estimates of carbon storage in under-sampled areas, and thereby enable better quantification of economic and natural benefits of tidal wetland systems by land managers.
Do cultural norms influence how teacher noticing is studied in different cultural contexts? A focus on expert norms of responding to students’ mathematical thinking
Authors: Dreher Anika , Lindmeier Anke , Feltes Paul , Wang Ting-Ying , Hsieh Feng-Jui
Published: October 2020

As an important component of teaching expertise, teacher noticing is gaining growing attention in our intercultural mathematics education community. However, it is likely that in many cases the researchers’ perspectives on what characterizes high instructional quality in mathematics classrooms shape what they expect teachers to notice. In particular, it is an open question how potentially different norms of instructional quality influence how teacher noticing is operationalized in East Asian and Western cultures. Consequently, in a first step, this bicultural research project on teacher noticing in Taiwan and Germany focuses on exploring the researchers’ frames of reference for investigating teacher noticing. In this paper, we thus propose a concurrent process for developing vignettes and eliciting corresponding expert norms as a prerequisite to investigating teacher noticing in a way that is sensitive to different cultural contexts. In this process, the research teams in both countries developed in parallel, text vignettes in which, from their perspective, a breach of a norm regarding a specific aspect of instructional quality was integrated. In an online expert survey, these vignettes were then presented to German and Taiwanese researchers in mathematics education (19 from each country) to investigate whether these experts recognize the integrated breach of a norm. This approach allows researchers to identify potentially different norms of instructional quality in mathematics classrooms. In particular, by means of a specific representation of practice, it became visible how expert norms of responding to students’ mathematical thinking can be different from a Taiwanese compared to a German perspective.
Current Challenge: Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection of Superficial Non-ampullary Duodenal Epithelial Tumors
Authors: Akahoshi Kazuya , Kubokawa Masaru , Inamura Kazuki , Akahoshi Kazuaki , Shiratsuchi Yuki , Tamura Shinichi
Published: October 2020

Opinion statement

With the widespread use of esophagogastroduodenoscopy in recent years, the detection rate of superficial non-ampullary duodenal epithelial tumors (SNADETs) is increasing. Most SNADETs are early-stage adenocarcinoma or benign conditions, including adenoma. Therefore, endoscopic resection is desirable from the perspective of quality of life. However, endoscopic resection for SNADETs has not yet been established. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is the most promising method for the treatment of SNADETs, because ESD provides a high rate of en bloc resection and a low rate of recurrence regardless of the tumor size. However, the difficulty of the procedure and a high rate of severe adverse events including perforation and bleeding have become major problems. Various preventive countermeasures for adverse events, such as use of specific devices, endoscope stabilization methods, and endoscopic closure of the post-ESD ulcer using clips, are reported to reduce the risk of the adverse events of ESD for SNADETs. This article reviews and highlights the current state of ESD for SNADETs and new challenges towards safe and effective ESD.
Glandular Odontogenic Cyst with Metaplastic Cartilage: Report of an Unusual Case and Literature Review
Authors: Crane Hannah , Karbhari Bhavesh , Hughes David , Orr Robert , Brierley Daniel
Published: October 2020

Glandular odontogenic cysts are rare odontogenic cysts with a wide range of histopathological features. In this paper we describe the clinical and pathological features of an unusual case of a glandular odontogenic cyst with metaplastic cartilage. The previous literature of odontogenic cysts presenting with metaplastic cartilage is reviewed alongside a discussion of the differential diagnoses. To our knowledge this is the first reported case of a glandular odontogenic cyst with metaplastic cartilage.
Combination of Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification and AuNP-Oligoprobe Colourimetric Assay for Pork Authentication in Processed Meat Products
Authors: Thangsunan Pattanapong , Temisak Sasithon , Morris Phattaraporn , Rios-Solis Leonardo , Suree Nuttee
Published: October 2020

Pork adulteration is a major concern for Muslims and Jews whose diets are restricted by religious beliefs, as well as those who are allergic to pork meat and its derivatives. Accurate pork authentication is of great importance to assist this demographic group of people in making decision on their product purchase. The aim of this study was to develop a new analytical method for pork authentication in processed meat products based on a combination of loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) and AuNP-nanoprobe colourimetric assay. The LAMP conditions were first optimised to obtain the highest yield of amplified DNA products within the shortest time. Oligoprobe-functionalised AuNPs were then hybridised with LAMP-DNA amplicons and subsequently challenged with MgSO4at a high concentration to induce AuNP aggregation. In the presence of pork DNA, the colloidal AuNP-probe remained unchanged in its red colour, which indicates the dispersion of AuNPs. In contrast, in the absence of pork DNA, the colour was changed to colourless as a result from the aggregation of AuNPs. The LAMP-AuNP-nanoprobe assay offers a high sensitivity with a limit of detection as low as 100 pg of pork DNA. The assay is highly specific to pork content without cross-reactivity with the other meat species tested. The assay developed herein can become a simple, inexpensive, precise, and rapid analytical tool for small laboratories or the general public interested in halal food authentication.