bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Keratokonusdetektion und Ableitung des Ausprägungsgrades aus den Parametern des Corvis®ST
Authors: Langenbucher Achim , Häfner Larissa , Eppig Timo , Seitz Berthold , Szentmáry Nóra , Flockerzi Elias
Published: September 2020

Hintergrund und Zielsetzung

In den vergangenen Jahren wurden zunehmend Systeme der künstlichen Intelligenz in der Medizin etabliert, die Pathologien oder Erkrankungen erkennen oder von komplementären Erkrankungen abgrenzen. Bisher liefert das Corvis®ST (Corneal Visualization Scheimpflug Technology, Oculus, Wetzlar, Deutschland) einen Index-CBI, der quasi binär Keratokonus klassifiziert, aber kein Staging zulässt. Ziel der Studie ist es, anhand von Messgrößen des Corvis®ST ein Vorhersagemodell zu entwerfen, das den Topographic Keratoconus Classification Index (TKC) der Pentacam high resolution (HR, Oculus) nachbildet.

Patienten und Methoden

Es wurden 60 Messungen an Normalprobanden (TKC 0) und 379 Augen mit Keratokonus (TKC 1 bis 4) in die Studie mit einbezogen. Nach der Messung mit der Pentacam HR (Zielgröße TKC) wurde eine Untersuchung mit dem Corvis®ST durchgeführt, aus der 6 Messparameter extrahiert wurden, die in den Corvis Biomechanical Index CBI eingehen (ARTh, SP-A1, DA-Ratio 1 mm, DA-Ratio 2 mm, A1 velocity, max. Deformation Amplitude). Neben dem TKC als Zielgröße wurde der binarisierte TKC (1: TKC 1 bis 4, 0: TKC 0) modelliert. Als Gütemaß wurde die Genauigkeit des Modells als Anteil der korrekten Klassifizierungen herangezogen. Fehlklassifizierungen wurden in der Modellierung so bestraft, dass die Abweichung des modellierten TKC-Wertes vom gemessenen Wert bewertet wurde.

Ergebnisse

Es wurden 24 verschiedene Modelle des überwachten maschinellen Lernens aus 6 Familien getestet. Für die Modellierung des TKC in Stufen von 0–4 zeigte das Modell, basierend auf einer Support Vector Machine (SVM) mit linearem Kernel, die beste Performance mit einem Anteil an richtigen Klassifizierungen von 65,1 %. Für den binarisierten Wert des TKC zeigte ein Decision Tree mit grober Auflösung die beste Performance mit einem Anteil an richtigen Klassifizierungen von 95,2 %, direkt gefolgt von der SVM mit linearem oder quadratischem Kernel und dem Nearest Neighborhood Classifier mit kubischem Kernel (jeweils 94,5 %).

Schlussfolgerungen

In der Arbeit soll das Prinzip des überwachten Maschinenlernens in der Anwendung auf die modellierte Klassifizierung von Messbefunden gezeigt werden. So wurden Messdaten des Corvis®ST dazu verwendet, die Einteilung in den Schweregrad eines Keratokonus mittels Pentacam (TKC) mit einer ganzen Reihe von Algorithmen des maschinellen Lernens nachzubilden.
Model order reduction of thermo-mechanical models with parametric convective boundary conditions: focus on machine tools
Authors: Hernández-Becerro Pablo , Spescha Daniel , Wegener Konrad
Published: September 2020

Thermo-mechanical finite element (FE) models predict the thermal behavior of machine tools and the associated mechanical deviations. However, one disadvantage is their high computational expense, linked to the evaluation of the large systems of differential equations. Therefore, projection-based model order reduction (MOR) methods are required in order to create efficient surrogate models. This paper presents a parametric MOR method for weakly coupled thermo-mechanical FE models of machine tools and other similar mechatronic systems. This work proposes a reduction method, Krylov Modal Subspace (KMS), and a theoretical bound of the reduction error. The developed method addresses the parametric dependency of the convective boundary conditions using the concept of system bilinearization. The reduced-order model reproduces the thermal response of the original FE model in the frequency range of interest for any value of the parameters describing the convective boundary conditions. Additionally, this paper investigates the coupling between the reduced-order thermal system and the mechanical response. A numerical example shows that the reduced-order model captures the response of the original system in the frequency range of interest.
Towards a general class of parametric probability weighting functions
Authors: Dombi József , Jónás Tamás
Published: September 2020

In this study, we present a novel methodology that can be used to generate parametric probability weighting functions, which play an important role in behavioral economics, by making use of the Dombi modifier operator of continuous-valued logic. Namely, we will show that the modifier operator satisfies the requirements for a probability weighting function. Next, we will demonstrate that the application of the modifier operator can be treated as a general approach to create parametric probability weighting functions including the most important ones such as the Prelec and the Ostaszewski, Green and Myerson (Lattimore, Baker and Witte) probability weighting function families. Also, we will show that the asymptotic probability weighting function induced by the inverse of the so-called epsilon function is none other than the Prelec probability weighting function. Furthermore, we will prove that, by using the modifier operator, other probability weighting functions can be generated from the dual generator functions and from transformed generator functions. Finally, we will show how the modifier operator can be used to generate strictly convex (or concave) probability weighting functions and introduce a method for fitting a generated probability weighting function to empirical data.
Representation of stress and strain in granular materials using functions of direction
Authors: Dean E. T. R.
Published: September 2020

This paper proposes a new way of describing effective stress in granular materials, in which stress is represented by a continuous function of direction in physical space. The proposal provides a rigorous approach to the task of upscaling from particle mechanics to continuum mechanics, but is simplified compared to a full discrete element analysis. It leads to an alternative framework of stress–strain constitutive modelling of granular materials that in particular considers directional dependency. The continuous function also contains more information that the corresponding tensor, and thereby provides space for storing information about history and memory. A work-conjugate set of geometric rates representing strain-rates is calculated, and the fundamental principles of local action, determinism, frame indifference, and rigid transformation indifference are shown to apply. A new principle of freedom from tensor constraint is proposed. Existing thermo-mechanics of granular media is extended to apply for the proposed functions, and a new method is described by which strain-rate equations can be used in large-deformations modelling. The new features are illustrated and explored using simple linear elastic models, producing new results for Poisson’s ratio and elastic modulus. Ways of using the new framework to model elastoplasticity including critical states are also discussed.
Prediction of antimicrobial resistance in clinical Campylobacter jejuni isolates from whole-genome sequencing data
Authors: Dahl Louise Gade , Joensen Katrine Grimstrup , Østerlund Mark Thomas , Kiil Kristoffer , Nielsen Eva Møller
Published: September 2020

Campylobacter jejuni is recognised as the leading cause of bacterial gastroenteritis in industrialised countries. Although the majority of Campylobacter infections are self-limiting, antimicrobial treatment is necessary in severe cases. Therefore, the development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Campylobacter is a growing public health challenge and surveillance of AMR is important for bacterial disease control. The aim of this study was to predict antimicrobial resistance in C. jejuni from whole-genome sequencing data. A total of 516 clinical C. jejuni isolates collected between 2014 and 2017 were subjected to WGS. Resistance phenotypes were determined by standard broth dilution, categorising isolates as either susceptible or resistant based on epidemiological cutoffs for six antimicrobials: ciprofloxacin, nalidixic acid, erythromycin, gentamicin, streptomycin, and tetracycline. Resistance genotypes were identified using an in-house database containing reference genes with known point mutations and the presence of resistance genes was determined using the ResFinder database and four bioinformatical methods (modified KMA, ABRicate, ARIBA, and ResFinder Batch Upload). We identified seven resistance genes including tet(O), tet(O/32/O), ant(6)-Ia, aph(2″)-If, blaOXA, aph(3′)-III, and cat as well as mutations in three genes: gyrA, 23S rRNA, and rpsL. There was a high correlation between phenotypic resistance and the presence of known resistance genes and/or point mutations. A correlation above 98% was seen for all antimicrobials except streptomycin with a correlation of 92%. In conclusion, we found that WGS can predict antimicrobial resistance with a high degree of accuracy and have the potential to be a powerful tool for AMR surveillance.
External validity of docetaxel triplet trials in advanced gastric cancer: are there patients who still benefit?
Authors: Jimenez-Fonseca Paula , Carmona-Bayonas Alberto , Martínez de Castro Eva , Custodio Ana , Pericay Pijaume Carles , Hernandez Raquel , Aguado Gema , Castro Unanua Natalia , Cano Juana María , López Flora , Garrido Marcelo , Fernández Montes Ana , Visa Laura , Sánchez Cánovas Manuel , Limón María Luisa , Martínez Lago Nieves , Pimentel Paola , Hurtado Alicia , Azkárate Aitor , Longo Federico , Diez Marc , Arias-Martinez Aranzazu , Sauri Tamara , Martín Carnicero Alfonso , Mangas Monserrat , Martín Richard Marta , Granja Mónica , Ramchandani Avinash , Hernández Pérez Carolina , Cerdá Paula , Gil-Negrete Aitziber , Calvo Mariona , Vidal Tocino Rosario , Gallego Javier
Published: September 2020

Background

The purpose of our study was to develop an online calculator to estimate the effect of docetaxel triplets (DPF) in first line of advanced gastric cancer (AGC), and to assess the external validity of docetaxel trials in individual patients.

Methods

The study includes patients with HER2(-) AGC treated with platin and fluoropyrimidine (PF) or with DPF in first line. Treatment effect and interactions were assessed using Bayesian accelerated failure time models.

Result

The series comprises 1376 patients; 238 treated with DPF and 1138 with PF between 2008 and 2019. DPF was associated with increased progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) with time ratio (TR) 1.27 (95% credible interval [CrI], 1.15–1.40), and TR 1.19 (95% CrI, 1.09–1.27), respectively. Serious adverse events were more common with DPF, particularly hematological effects (32% vs 22%). Younger participants received greater DPF dose density without achieving greater disease control, while severe toxicity was likewise higher. DPF yielded superior OS in Lauren intestinal (TR 1.27, 95% CrI, 1.08–1.11) vs diffuse subtype (TR 1.17, 95% CrI, 1.09–1.24) and the probability of increasing OS > 15% was 90% vs 67% in each subtype, respectively. The effect dwindles over time, which can be attributed to pathological changes and clinical practice changes.

Conclusion

Our study confirms the effect of DPF is highly dependent on several clinical–pathological variables, with discreet and gradually declining benefit over platinum doublets in later years, at the expense of increased toxicity. These results may help to underpin the idea that external validity of AGC trials should be revised regularly.
Assessment of global wave models on regular and unstructured grids using the Unresolved Obstacles Source Term
Authors: Mentaschi Lorenzo , Vousdoukas Michalis , Montblanc Tomas Fernandez , Kakoulaki Georgia , Voukouvalas Evangelos , Besio Giovanni , Salamon Peter
Published: September 2020

The Unresolved Obstacles Source Term (UOST) is a general methodology for parameterizing the dissipative effects of subscale islands, cliffs, and other unresolved features in ocean wave models. Since it separates the dissipation from the energy advection scheme, it can be applied to any numerical scheme or any type of mesh. UOST is now part of the official release of WAVEWATCH III, and the freely available package alphaBetaLab automates the estimation of the parameters needed for the obstructed cells. In this contribution, an assessment of global regular and unstructured (triangular) wave models employing UOST is presented. The results in regular meshes show an improvement in model skill, both in terms of spectrum and of integrated parameters, thanks to the UOST modulation of the dissipation with wave direction, and to considering the cell geometry. The improvement is clear in wide areas characterized by the presence of islands, like the whole central-western Pacific Basin. In unstructured meshes, the use of UOST removes the need of high resolution in proximity of all small features, leading to (a) a simplification in the development process of large scale and global meshes, and (b) a significant decrease of the computational demand of accurate large-scale models.
Assessing poverty persistence in households with children
Authors: Fabrizi Enrico , Mussida Chiara
Published: September 2020

The analysis of poverty persistence received considerable attention in recent years. In this paper we explore the role of the adopted poverty measure in the analysis of its persistence. Specifically, we consider three measures: the risk of poverty, the severe material deprivation and subjective poverty, motivated by the understanding of poverty as a complex phenomenon and for which no single measure can effectively capture its several dimensions. The empirical analysis is based on the 2013-2016 longitudinal sample of the EU-SILC survey. We focus on Italian households with dependent children. We apply a correlated random effects probit models with endogenous initial conditions to assess genuine state dependence after controlling for structural household characteristics and variables related to participation in the labour market. A strong state dependence emerges, regardless of the considered poverty measure thus providing evidence of poverty and social exclusion persistence. We also find evidence of relevance of initial conditions for all measures in focus. Nonetheless, structural household characteristics and household level economic variables play roles that are often different in the three parallel models; these differences are consistent with the aims and nature of the alternative measures.
Development of loop-mediated isothermal amplification assay for rapid detection of genetically different wheat dwarf virus isolates
Authors: Trzmiel Katarzyna , Hasiów-Jaroszewska Beata
Published: September 2020

Wheat dwarf virus (WDV) is considered as one of the most common viruses on cereal crops. Recently, severe outbreaks of WDV have been observed especially on winter wheat in southwestern part of Poland. Moreover, the presence of genetically different WDV-barley-specific and WDV-wheat-specific forms (WDV-B and WDV-W, respectively) was confirmed. In this study, a loop-mediated isothermal amplification assay (LAMP) was developed for the first time for efficient and rapid detection of WDV-B and WDV-W in infected plants. The reaction was performed using a set of three primer pairs: WDVF3/WDVB3, WDVFIB/WDVBIP and WDVLoopF/WDVLoopB specific for coat protein coding sequence. The amplified products were analyzed by direct staining of DNA, gel electrophoresis and real-time monitoring of the amplification curves. The sensitivity of optimized reaction was tenfold higher in comparison with conventional PCR. LAMP assay developed here is a useful and practical method for the rapid detection of different WDV isolates and can be implemented by phytosanitary services.
Melanoma brain metastases have lower T-cell content and microvessel density compared to matched extracranial metastases
Authors: Weiss Sarah A. , Zito Christopher , Tran Thuy , Heishima Kazuki , Neumeister Veronique , McGuire John , Adeniran Adebowale , Kluger Harriet , Jilaveanu Lucia B.
Published: September 2020

Background

Although melanoma brain metastases (MBM) tend to respond to systemic therapy concordantly with extracranial metastases, little is known about differences in immune cell and vascular content between the brain and other metastatic sites. Here we studied infiltrating immune cell subsets and microvessel density (MVD) in paired intracerebral and extracerebral melanoma metastases.

Methods

Paired intracerebral and extracerebral tumor tissue was obtained from 37 patients with metastatic melanoma who underwent craniotomy between 1997 and 2014. A tissue microarray was constructed to quantify subsets of tumor-infiltrating T-cell, B-cell, and macrophage content, PD-L1 expression, and MVD using quantitative immunofluorescence.

Results

MBM had lower CD3+ (p = 0.01) and CD4+ (p = 0.003) T-cell content, lower MVD (p = 0.006), and a trend for lower CD8+ (p = 0.17) T-cell content compared to matched extracerebral metastases. There were no significant differences in CD20+ B-cell or CD68+ macrophage content, or tumor or stroma PD-L1 expression. Low MVD (p = 0.008) and high CD68+ macrophage density (p = 0.04) in intracerebral metastases were associated with improved 1-year survival from time of first MBM diagnosis.

Conclusions

Although responses to immune-modulating drugs in the body and the brain tend to be concordant, differences were found in MVD and T-cell content between these sites. Studies of these markers should be incorporated into prospective therapeutic clinical trials to determine their prognostic and predictive value.
Surface Roughness Evolution to Identify Incubation Time for Hot Corrosion of Nickel-Base Superalloys: CMSX-4, CM247LC DS and IN6203DS at 550 °C
Authors: Chapman Neil , Gray Simon , Sumner Joy , Nicholls John
Published: September 2020

In the absence of protective scales, nickel-base superalloys have an extremely limited hot corrosion incubation period before increased rates of attack are experienced. This paper reports on the nickel-base superalloys: CMSX-4, CM247LC DS and IN6203DS subjected to 550 °C hot corrosion exposures of durations ranging from 0 to 800 h, during which none of the superalloys developed a fully protective scale. The aim of the research was to identify the incubation period of each superalloy and this was achieved by means of surface roughness evaluations. A metrology exercise was performed on the cross section of test specimens which produced Cartesian data points which were subsequently converted to Ra and Rz data. Statistical analysis of the results suggested the incubation period lasted approximately 400, 500 and 200 h, respectively, for each superalloy. It was concluded that refractory metal phases within the microstructure were associated with the relatively short IN6203DS incubation period. This paper demonstrates that monitoring the changes in surface roughness provides a plausible method to identify the transition from incubation to propagation when studying 550 °C hot corrosion attack.
The dynamical renaissance in neuroscience
Authors: Favela Luis H.
Published: September 2020

Although there is a substantial philosophical literature on dynamical systems theory in the cognitive sciences, the same is not the case for neuroscience. This paper attempts to motivate increased discussion via a set of overlapping issues. The first aim is primarily historical and is to demonstrate that dynamical systems theory is currently experiencing a renaissance in neuroscience. Although dynamical concepts and methods are becoming increasingly popular in contemporary neuroscience, the general approach should not be viewed as something entirely new to neuroscience. Instead, it is more appropriate to view the current developments as making central again approaches that facilitated some of neuroscience’s most significant early achievements, namely, the Hodgkin–Huxley and FitzHugh–Nagumo models. The second aim is primarily critical and defends a version of the “dynamical hypothesis” in neuroscience. Whereas the original version centered on defending a noncomputational and nonrepresentational account of cognition, the version I have in mind is broader and includes both cognition and the neural systems that realize it as well. In view of that, I discuss research on motor control as a paradigmatic example demonstrating that the concepts and methods of dynamical systems theory are increasingly and successfully being applied to neural systems in contemporary neuroscience. More significantly, such applications are motivating a stronger metaphysical claim, that is, understanding neural systems asbeing dynamical systems, which includes not requiring appeal to representations to explain or understand those phenomena. Taken together, the historical claim and the critical claim demonstrate that the dynamical hypothesis is undergoing a renaissance in contemporary neuroscience.
Beyond the Platonic Brain: facing the challenge of individual differences in function-structure mapping
Authors: Viola Marco
Published: September 2020

In their attempt to connect the workings of the human mind with their neural realizers, cognitive neuroscientists often bracket out individual differences to build a single, abstract model that purportedly represents (almost) every human being’s brain. In this paper I first examine the rationale behind this model, which I call ‘Platonic Brain Model’. Then I argue that it is to be surpassed in favor of multiple models allowing for patterned inter-individual differences. I introduce the debate on legitimate (and illegitimate) ways of mapping neural structures and cognitive functions, endorsing a view according to which function-structure mapping is context-sensitive. Building on the discussion of the ongoing debate on the function(s) of the so-called Fusiform “Face” Area, I show the necessity of indexing function-structure mappings to some populations of subjects, clustered on the basis of factors such as their expertise in a given domain.
Virtual Reality-Based Education for Patients Undergoing Radiation Therapy
Authors: Wang Liam J. , Casto Brian , Luh Join Y. , Wang Samuel J.
Published: September 2020

We built a virtual reality (VR) application that runs on a commercially available standalone VR headset that allows patients to view a virtual simulation of themselves receiving radiotherapy. The purpose of this study was to determine if this experience can improve patient understanding of radiotherapy and/or reduce patient anxiety. We created software that reads data from our clinical treatment planning system and renders the plan on a life-size “virtual linear accelerator.” The patient’s CT simulation data is converted into a 3D translucent virtual human shown lying on the treatment table while visible yellow radiation beams are delivered to the target volumes in the patient. We conducted a prospective study to determine if showing patients their radiotherapy plan in VR improves patient education and/or reduces anxiety about treatment. A total of 43 patients were enrolled. The most common plans were 3D breast tangents and intensity-modulated radiotherapy prostate plans. Patients were administered pre- and post-experience questionnaires. Thirty-two patients (74%) indicated that they “strongly agree” that the VR session gave them a better understanding of how radiotherapy will be used to treat their cancer. Of the 21 patients who expressed any anxiety about radiotherapy beforehand, 12 (57%) said that the VR session helped decrease their anxiety about undergoing radiotherapy. In our single-institution, single-arm prospective patient study, we found that the majority of patients reported that the personalized VR experience was educational and can reduce anxiety. VR technology has potential to be a powerful adjunctive educational tool for cancer patients about to undergo radiotherapy.
Das Bestellerprinzip auf Wohnungs- und Immobilienmärkten – ist gut gemeint auch gut?
Authors: Michaelis Jochen , Schwanebeck Benjamin
Published: September 2020

Mit der Implementierung des Bestellerprinzips – wer den Makler beauftragt, muss ihn auch bezahlen – hat der Gesetzgeber einen Wechsel der Zahllast für die Courtage vom Mieter zum Vermieter vorgenommen. Mit Hilfe eines sequentiellen Verhandlungsspiels wird hier diskutiert, inwieweit der Wechsel der Zahllast mit einer Veränderung der ökonomischen Traglast einhergeht. Es wird gezeigt, dass für plausible Parameterkonstellationen (i) die Makler verlieren in Form einer sinkenden Courtage, (ii) die Mieter gewinnen trotz Überwälzung der Courtage auf die Miete, und (iii) auch die Vermieter gewinnen trotz Übernahme der Zahllast der Courtage.
Using under-ice hyperspectral transmittance to determine land-fast sea-ice algal biomass in Saroma-ko Lagoon, Hokkaido, Japan
Authors: Wongpan Pat , Nomura Daiki , Toyota Takenobu , Tanikawa Tomonori , Meiners Klaus M. , Ishino Tomomi , Tamura Tetsuya P. , Tozawa Manami , Nosaka Yuichi , Hirawake Toru , Ooki Atsushi , Aoki Shigeru
Published: September 2020

Sea ice, which forms in polar and nonpolar areas, transmits light to ice-associated (sympagic) algal communities. To noninvasively study the distribution of sea-ice algae, empirical relations to estimate its biomass from under-ice hyperspectral irradiance have been developed in the Arctic and Antarctica but lack for nonpolar regions. This study examines relationships between normalised difference indices (NDI) calculated from hyperspectral transmittance and sympagic algal biomass in the nonpolar Saroma-ko Lagoon. We analysed physico-biogeochemical properties of snow and land-fast sea ice supporting 27 paired bio-optical measurements along three transects covering an area of over 250 m × 250 m in February 2019. Snow depth (0.08 ± 0.01 m) and ice-bottom brine volume fraction (0.21 ± 0.02) showed low (0.06) and high (0.58) correlations with sea-ice core bottom section chlorophylla(Chl.a), respectively. Spatial analyses unveiled the patch size of sea-ice Chl.ato be ~65 m, which is in the same range reported from previous studies. A selected NDI (669, 596 nm) explained 63% of algal biomass variability. This reflects the bio-optical properties and environmental conditions of the lagoon that favour the wavelength pair in the orange/red part of the spectrum and suggests the necessity of a specific bio-optical relationship for Saroma-ko Lagoon.
One- versus multi-component regular variation and extremes of Markov trees
Authors: Segers Johan
Published: September 2020

A Markov tree is a random vector indexed by the nodes of a tree whose distribution is determined by the distributions of pairs of neighbouring variables and a list of conditional independence relations. Upon an assumption on the tails of the Markov kernels associated to these pairs, the conditional distribution of the self-normalized random vector when the variable at the root of the tree tends to infinity converges weakly to a random vector of coupled random walks called a tail tree. If, in addition, the conditioning variable has a regularly varying tail, the Markov tree satisfies a form of one-component regular variation. Changing the location of the root, that is, changing the conditioning variable, yields a different tail tree. When the tails of the marginal distributions of the conditioning variables are balanced, these tail trees are connected by a formula that generalizes the time change formula for regularly varying stationary time series. The formula is most easily understood when the various one-component regular variation statements are tied up into a single multi-component statement. The theory of multi-component regular variation is worked out for general random vectors, not necessarily Markov trees, with an eye towards other models, graphical or otherwise.
Out-of-equilibrium random walks
Authors: Videla Leonardo A.
Published: September 2020

We study the long-term behaviour of a random walker embedded in a growing sequence of graphs. We define a (generally non-Markovian) real-valued stochastic process, called the knowledge process, that represents the ratio between the number of vertices already visited by the walker and the current size of the graph. We mainly focus on the case where the underlying graph sequence is the growing sequence of complete graphs.
Between Competition and Cooperation: Financial Incumbents and Challengers in German Pension Politics
Authors: Röper Nils
Published: September 2020

It has long been overlooked that factions of finance such as banks and insurers can have opposing policy interests. This paper is concerned with the preferences and strategies of private financial actors in the context of private prefunded pensions. To capture the “tug of war” among these actors, this paper identifies their different financial business models (insurance- and investment-orientation), political roles (financial incumbents and challengers), and levels at which infighting may occur (political and product-market level). For the German case, it shows that product-market competition among financial incumbents and challengers over retirement savings products only turned into competition politics during the 1990s, when shifting political winds provided an opening to insert path-shaping instruments in line with the program of finance capitalism. Financial actors’ preferences are not a derivative of economic or functional incentives, but socially embedded in that they are crucially shaped by interactions with their competitors and the political environment. The analysis disentangles the complex web of competition, cooperation, and ownership among factions of finance and discerns their genuine preferences from those strategically adjusted to context. This sheds doubt on functionalist explanations of (pension) financialization and enhances our understanding of how financial actors form and pursue their preferences.
‘It wasn't just the academic stuff, it was life stuff’: the significance of peers in strengthening the Indigenous health researcher workforce
Authors: Ryan Tess , Ewen Shaun , Platania-Phung Chris
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Health research remains a vital activity of Indigenous health workforces. This paper reports on the main findings of yarning interviews with 14 Indigenous researchers, that was central to a project analysing the role of research training infrastructures in strengthening the Indigenous health research workforce in Australia. The findings highlighted Indigenous researcher peers as core sources of inspiration, moral support and sustenance in academia and in life. Peer generative power arising from peer groups provide a unique enriching to the educational and research experience. Indigenous researcher peers have a strong shared aspiration to champion change to health research and higher education as a key pathway to widespread positive impacting on health and well-being. We suggest the (revived) development at a collective level of a strategic and planned approach to capitalising on the positive outcomes of peer generated leadership and support.
Garcinol promotes hepatic gluconeogenesis by inhibiting P300/CBP-associated factor in late-pregnant sows
Authors: Yao Weilei , Xia Jun , Wang Tongxin , Li Juan , Huang Lu , Huang Feiruo
Published: September 2020

Disorder of hepatic glucose metabolism is the characteristic of late-pregnant sows. The purpose of our study was to look into the mechanism of garcinol on the improvement of hepatic gluconeogenic enzyme in late-pregnant sows. Thirty second- and third-parity sows (Duroc × Yorkshire × Landrace,n10/diet) were fed a basal diet (control) or that diet supplemented with 100 mg/kg (Low Gar) or 500 mg/kg (High Gar) garcinol from day 90 of gestation to the end of farrowing. The livers were processed to measure enzymatic activity. Hepatocytes from pregnant sows were transfected with P300/CBP-associating factor (PCAF) small interfering RNA (siRNA) or treated with garcinol. Dietary garcinol had no effect on average daily feed intake, body weight (BW), backfat and BW gain of late-pregnant sows. Garcinol promoted plasma glucose levels in pregnant sows and newborn piglets. Garcinol up-regulated hepatic gluconeogenic enzyme expression and decreased PCAF activity. Garcinol had no effect on the expression of PPAR-γco-activator 1α (PGC-1α) and Forkhead box O1 (FOXO1) but significantly increased their activity and decreased their acetylation in late-pregnant sows. Transfection of PCAF siRNA to hepatocytes of pregnant sows increased PGC-1αand FOXO1 activities. Furthermore, in hepatocytes of pregnant sows, garcinol treatment also up-regulated the activities of PGC-1αand FOXO1 and inhibited the acetylation of PGC-1αand FOXO1. Garcinol improves hepatic gluconeogenic enzyme expression in late-pregnant sows, and this may be due to the mechanism of down-regulating the acetylation of PGC-1αand FOXO1 induced by PCAF in isolated hepatocytes.
What's in a Name? Metaphors and Cybersecurity
Authors: Branch Jordan
Published: September 2020

For more than a decade, the United States military has conceptualized and discussed the Internet and related systems as “cyberspace,” understood as a “domain” of conflict like land, sea, air, and outer space. How and why did this concept become entrenched in US doctrine? What are its effects? Focusing on the emergence and consolidation of this terminology, I make three arguments about the role of language in cybersecurity policy. First, I propose a new, politically consequential category of metaphor:foundational metaphors,implied by using particular labels rather than stated outright. These metaphors support specific ways to understand complex issues, provide discursive resources to some arguments over others, and shape policy contestation and outcomes. Second, I present a detailed empirical study of US military strategy and doctrine that traces the emergence and consolidation of terminology built on the “cyberspace domain.” This concept supported implicit metaphorical correspondences between the Internet and physical space, yielding specific analogies and arguments for understanding the Internet and its effects. Third, I focus on the rhetorical effects of this terminology to reveal two important institutional consequences: this language has been essential to expanding the military's role in cybersecurity, and specific interests within the Department of Defense have used this framework to support the creation of US Cyber Command. These linguistic effects in the United States also have implications for how other states approach cybersecurity, for how international law is applied to cyber operations, and for how International Relations understands language and technological change.
Moonshine worms (Diopatra aciculata: Onuphidae, Annelida) in the Knysna Estuary, South Africa; taxonomy and distribution
Authors: van Rensburg H. , Matthee C. A. , Simon C. A.
Published: September 2020

Moonshine worms are a popular bait species used for fishing. The taxon was not detected during surveys of the macrobenthos conducted in Knysna in the 1940s and 1990s, and was first reported as a harvested bait species in the mid-2000s, suggesting that it appeared for the first time in the estuary in the last three decades. A previous molecular analysis identified the worms as Diopatra aciculata, a species first described from Australia. This study provides an updated detailed morphological description of D. aciculata in South Africa to facilitate future identifications and also investigates the species' distribution and population size in the Knysna Estuary. Specimens were examined by scanning electron, stereo- and compound microscopes. Diopatra aciculata has tubes that protrude from the sediment in sandy areas, often decorated with algae and shell fragments; a large body size, up to 600 mm long and 11.5 mm wide. It has 10–18 rings on ceratophores; 5–10 teeth on pectinate chaetae; uni- and bidentate pseudo-compound falcigers and dorsal cirri approximately as long as branchiae. Diopatra aciculata was detected up to 12 km from the mouth of the Knysna Estuary with densities measured at 18 sampled sites. Statistical analysis retrieved high and low density groups that were significantly different from one another (Kruskal-Wallis H(14, 800) = 376.55; P = 0.01), but distribution of high density sites was patchy. We estimate that the population comprises 20–24 million individuals. Given the size of individual worms and the population estimate, this species can be expected to have significant ecological impacts in the estuary.
Translating, Summarising and Hidden Attribution: R. H. Lightfoot's Problematic Use of German Scholarship
Authors: Massey Brandon
Published: September 2020

The form-critical method found an English-speaking champion in R. H. Lightfoot of Oxford University. Through multiple publications he promoted the ideas of Rudolf Bultmann, Martin Dibelius and Ernst Lohmeyer. However, a close comparison of their texts reveals that Lightfoot sometimes simply translated the words of Dibelius and Lohmeyer, at times without appropriate attribution, and presented their ideas as his own. Recently discovered letters in the Lightfoot archive at Oxford University provide a more complete picture of Lightfoot's travels and interaction with German NT scholars. These discoveries call for a reassessment of Lightfoot's place in the history of NT scholarship.
Dissimulatio artis? Paulus und die antike Rhetorik
Authors: Schmeller Thomas
Published: September 2020

Paul seems neither to know anything about rhetoric nor to appreciate it. On the one hand he calls himself an ‘amateur in speech’ (2 Cor 11.6). On the other hand he rejects rhetoric as part of the wisdom of the world (1 Cor 1–4). Such statements could, however, be a rhetorical strategy, which belongs todissimulatio artis(‘concealment of (rhetorical) art’). Thus, while Paul seems to dissociate himself from rhetoric, he might in some way declare himself for rhetoric. This article gives a survey of the realisation ofdissimulatioand of its functions in pagan literature of antiquity and deals with the question whether this rhetorical means is to be found in Paul's letters.
The use of eye-tracking in experimental approaches in second language acquisition research: the primary effects of Processing Instruction in the acquisition of the French imperfect
Authors: Laval Cécile , Lowe Harriet
Published: September 2020

Despite the ample database of research findings on the benefits of Processing Instruction (PI), research thus has primarily made use of offline measures to establish how L2 learners comprehend and process sentences. Using online methodology, such as eye-tracking, allows research to more directly measure implicit knowledge. The sensitivity of these measures requires meticulous design choices to ensure validity and replicability. This study provides an overview of the linguistic and physical design considerations necessary for creating eye-tracking materials in SLA research. The present study demonstrates the application of these design considerations in an eye-tracking study, comparing the changes in processing patterns between two types of instruction: PI and Traditional Instruction (TI) on low intermediate L2 adult learners’ acquisition of the French imperfect aspect. The results of the experimental study show beneficial gains made by L2 learners who received PI on the French imperfect tense, this was seen in both a significant increase in accuracy scores from pre-test to post-test and change in their cognitive processing as shown by eye-movement data. The present study emphasizes the need for future studies to consider methodological reflections and key design principles in eye-tracking research.
Etudier l’émergence de l’écrit chez des enfants sourds signeurs en maternelle : questions et enjeux méthodologiques
Authors: Beaujard Laurence , Garcia Brigitte
Published: September 2020

RESUME

Nous proposons une réflexion méthodologique sur les choix adéquats dans le cadre d’une étude sur les stratégies d’acquisition du français écrit (L2 pour les sourds) chez quatre enfants sourds profonds de 5 ans, locuteurs L1 de la langue des signes française, notre hypothèse étant que, du fait de leur surdité, ces enfants empruntent des voies différentes de celles des enfants entendants. Nous rendons compte des questionnements méthodologiques posés par l’élaboration des critères d’analyse du corpus d’écrits, questions liées au grand nombre de variables à prendre en compte, aux dimensions à la fois linguistiques, cognitives, sociolinguistiques et didactiques de l’étude et à la nécessité d’adapter le cadre théorique choisi, conçu pour des entendants et impliquant d’autres langues. Nous présentons au final les tout premiers résultats de l’analyse conduite sur des échantillons d’écrits.
Depressive Symptoms Differentially Predict Neurocognition in Latinx and Non-Hispanic White People Living with HIV
Authors: Morris Emily P. , Byrd Desiree , Summers Angela C. , Tureson Kayla , Guzman Vanessa , Crook Cara L. , Rivera Mindt Monica
Published: September 2020

Objectives:

Depression is common in people living with HIV (PLWH) and can contribute to neurocognitive dysfunction. Depressive symptoms in PLWH are often measured by assessing only cognitive/affective symptoms. Latinx adults, however, often express depressive symptoms in a somatic/functional manner, which is not typically captured in assessments of depression among PLWH. Given the disproportionate burden of HIV that Latinx adults face, examining whether variations in expressed depressive symptoms differentially predict neurocognitive outcomes between Latinx and non-Hispanic white PLWH is essential.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study included 140 PLWH (71% Latinx; 72% male; mean (M) age = 47.1 ± 8.5 years; M education = 12.6 ± 2.9 years) who completed a comprehensive neurocognitive battery, Wechsler Test of Adult Reading (WTAR), and Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II). Neurocognitive performance was measured using demographically adjusted T-scores. BDI-II domain scores were computed for the Fast-Screen (cognitive/affective items) score (BDI-FS) and non-FS score (BDI-NFS; somatic/functional items).

Results:

Linear regressions revealed that the BDI-NFS significantly predicted global neurocognitive function and processing speed in the Latinx group (p < .05), such that higher physical/functional symptoms predicted worse performance. In the non-Hispanic white group, the cognitive/affective symptoms significantly predicted processing speed (p = .02), with more symptoms predicting better performance. Interaction terms of ethnicity and each BDI sub-score indicated that Latinx participants with higher cognitive/affective symptoms performed worse on executive functioning.

Conclusions:

Depressive symptoms differentially predict neurocognitive performance in Latinx and non-Hispanic white PLWH. These differences should be considered when conducting research and intervention among the increasingly culturally and ethnically diverse population of PLWH.
General practitioners’ knowledge of leg ulcer treatment in primary healthcare: an interview study
Authors: Friman Anne , Wiegleb Edström Desiree , Ebbeskog Britt , Edelbring Samuel
Published: September 2020

Aim:

To describe general practitioners’ (GPs’) knowledge and the development of their knowledge regarding leg ulcer treatment when treating patients with leg ulceration at primary healthcare centers.

Background:

Earlier research regarding GPs’ knowledge of leg ulcer treatment in a primary healthcare context has focused primarily on the assessment of wounds and knowledge of wound care products. Less is known about GPs’ understandings of their own knowledge and knowledge development regarding leg ulceration in the everyday clinical context. This study, therefore, sets out to highlight these aspects from the GPs’ perspective.

Methods:

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 individual GPs working at both private and county council run healthcare centers. The data were analyzed inductively using a thematic analysis.

Results:

Four themes were identified. ‘Education and training’ describe the GPs’ views regarding their knowledge and knowledge development in relation to leg ulcer treatment. ‘Experience’ refers to GPs’ thoughts about the importance of clinical experience when treating leg ulcers. ‘Prioritization’ describes the issues GPs raised around managing the different knowledge areas in their clinical work. ‘Time constraints’ explore the relationship between GPs’ sense of time pressure and their opportunities to participate in professional development courses.

Conclusions:

The study shows that the GPs working in primary healthcare are aware of the need for ongoing competence development concerning leg ulceration. They describe their current knowledge of leg ulcer treatment as insufficient and point to the lack of relevant courses that are adapted for their level of knowledge and the limited opportunities for clinical training.
Factors influencing trends in opioid prescribing for older people: a scoping review
Authors: Mikelyte Rasa , Abrahamson Vanessa , Hill Emma , Wilson Patricia M.
Published: September 2020

Aim:

The review aimed to identify factors influencing opioid prescribing as regular pain-management medication for older people.

Background:

Chronic pain occurs in 45%–85% of older people, but appears to be under-recognised and under-treated. However, strong opiate prescribing is more prevalent in older people, increasing at the fastest rate in this age group.

Methods:

This review included all study types, published 1990–2017, which focused on opioid prescribing for pain management among older adults. Arksey and O’Malley’s framework was used to scope the literature. PubMed, EBSCO Host, the UK Drug Database, and Google Scholar were searched. Data extraction, carried out by two researchers, included factors explaining opioid prescribing patterns and prescribing trends.

Findings:

A total of 613 papers were identified and 53 were included in the final review consisting of 35 research papers, 10 opinion pieces and 8 grey literature sources. Factors associated with prescribing patterns were categorised according to whether they were patient-related, prescriber-driven, or system-driven. Patient factors included age, gender, race, and cognition; prescriber factors included attitudes towards opioids and judgements about ‘normal’ pain; and policy/system factors related to the changing policy landscape over the last three decades, particularly in the USA.

Conclusions:

A large number of context-dependent factors appeared to influence opioid prescribing for chronic pain management in older adults, but the findings were inconsistent. There is a gap in the literature relating to the UK healthcare system; the prescriber and the patient perspective; and within the context of multi-morbidity and treatment burden.
Sun-as-a-star observations of the 2017 August 21 solar eclipse
Authors: Dineva Ekaterina , Denker Carsten , Verma Meetu , Strassmeier Klaus G. , Ilyin Ilya , Milic Ivan
Published: September 2020

The Potsdam Echelle Polarimetric and Spectroscopic Instrument (PEPSI) is a state-of-the-art, thermally stabilized, fiber-fed, high-resolution spectrograph for the Large Binocular Telescope (LBT) at Mt. Graham, Arizona. During daytime the instrument is fed with sunlight from the 10-millimeter aperture, fully automated, binocular Solar Disk-Integrated (SDI) telescope. The observed Sun-as-a-star spectra contain a multitude of photospheric and chromospheric spectral lines in the wavelength ranges 4200–4800 Å and 5300–6300 Å. One of the advantages of PEPSI is that solar spectra are recorded in the exactly same manner as nighttime targets. Thus, solar and stellar spectra can be directly compared. PEPSI/SDI recorded 116 Sun-as-a-star spectra during the 2017 August 21 solar eclipse. The observed maximum obscuration was 61.6%. The spectra were taken with a spectral resolution of ≈ 250000 and an exposure time of 0.3 s. The high-spectral resolution facilitates detecting subtle changes in the spectra while the Moon passes the solar disk. Sun-as-a-star spectra are affected by changing contributions due to limb darkening and solar differential rotation, and to a lesser extend by supergranular velocity pattern and the presence of active regions on the solar surface. The goal of this study is to investigate the temporal evolution of the chromospheric Na D doublet during the eclipse and to compare observations with synthetic line profiles computed with the state-of-the-art Bifrost code.