bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Red visual stimulation in theGanzfeldleads to a relative overestimation of duration compared to green
Authors: Kübel Sebastian L. , Fiedler Henrike , Wittmann Marc
Published: October 2020

A Ganzfeld is a homogenized visual and auditory perceptual field which can induce altered states of consciousness (ASC; Metzger, 1929; Schmidt & Prein, 2019). Using a balanced intrasubject design, we compared participants' experience during two differently colored (red, green) 25‐min Ganzfeld sessions with brown noise as acoustic stimulation. Participants were exposed to the colored visual field through commercially available goggles and to brown noise over headphones. We selected 67 participants with some prior meditation experience to increase the probability that they would engage meaningfully with this specifically restricted stimulus situation. We tested the functional components of the standard cognitive model of time perception (Zakay & Block, 1997) in a path analysis for direct (red vs. green light) and indirect effects (arousal, attention) on subjective duration and perceived passage of time. Subjective arousal and valence states were measured using the Self‐Assessment Manikin (SAM). The amount of attention directed to time and the perceived passage of time were rated with standard visual analog scales (VAS). Participants also estimated the duration of each Ganzfeld exposure. The session with the red visual field lasted significantly longer than did the green session (μred= 23.1 min; μgreen= 19.8 min). After the green session, participants rated their arousal level to have significantly decreased; after the red session, individuals on average felt emotionally less positive. Multiple path analyses revealed that the effect of color on estimated duration is completely mediated through higher arousal levels during the red Ganzfeld session. In turn, the higher arousal level generates a longer subjective estimate of duration. For induction of relaxation in studies probing altered states of consciousness employing the Ganzfeld technique, we recommend using the green light.
Applications of noninvasive prenatal testing in vanishing twin syndrome pregnancies after treatment of assisted reproductive technology in a single center
Authors: Zou Yang , Cui Linlin , Xue Mengyang , Yan Junhao , Huang Miao , Gao Ming , Gao Xuan , Gao Yuan , Chen Zi‐Jiang
Published: October 2020

Objective

The objective of the study is to assess the clinical application of noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) for VTS pregnancies after the treatment of assisted reproductive technology (ART).

Method

This was a retrospective study on VTS pregnancies through ART treatment. Participants underwent NIPT at 11 to 13 weeks gestation by sequencing. Resampling was recommended for both positive and testing failure cases. For NIPT positive results, participants were advised to have invasive testing. Clinical outcomes were obtained by telephone interview.

Results

In total of 579 cases, testing failure rates after first sampling and resampling were 7.6% and 1.4%, respectively. Twelve positive results were reported by NIPT. But only one true positive was confirmed, giving a PPV of 8%. A total of 576 cases completed the follow‐up (including 533 NIPT negative, 12 positive, and 31 testing failure) and three cases lost follow‐up. Among the 536 cases with NIPT negative results, 504 (94.0%) resulted in live‐birth and 29 (5.4%) resulted in miscarriage or stillbirths. No false‐negative result was reported.

Conclusion

NIPT has the potential to be used in prenatal screening for VTS pregnancies. For the pregnant women who obtained positive and testing failure results, resampling after 15 weeks of gestation is recommended.
Patterns of anticonvulsant use and adverse drug events in older adults
Authors: Moura Lidia M. V. R. , Smith Jason R. , Yan Zhiyu , Blacker Deborah , Schwamm Lee H. , Newhouse Joseph P. , Hernandez‐Diaz Sonia , Hsu John
Published: October 2020

Purpose

To examine indications for, duration of use, and rate of adverse drug events (ADE) attributable to anticonvulsant initiation, as adjudicated by expert review of electronic health records (EHR) of older adults.

Methods

We identified a cohort of community dwelling Medicare beneficiaries with linked EHR (aged 65+, continuously enrolled with a large health system/until death between 2012 and 2014, n = 20 945) and drew a stratified EHR review sample (n = 1534). An expert reviewed all records to adjudicate anticonvulsant use, years of use, indication for use, and evidence of ADEs attributable to anticonvulsant initiation. After excluding patients with insufficient EHR data (n = 37; 2%), we reconstructed the cohort using inverse probability weights to resemble the original cohort of eligible beneficiaries (n = 20 380). Among incident users of a single anticonvulsant, we estimated the rate of ADEs and described the type and severity of ADEs.

Results

Overall, 12% (n = 2469) of eligible beneficiaries used at least one anticonvulsant in the 2012 to 2014 period (4% [n = 757] incident users, 8% [n = 1712] prevalent users). Incident users were most frequently prescribed gabapentin (n = 461/757, 61%), benzodiazepines (n = 122/757, 16%), and levetiracetam (n = 74/757, 10%); the most common indication was pain relief (n = 214; 28%) followed by epilepsy (n = 53; 7%). Among incident users, the overall ADE rate was 10/100 person‐years (95% CI 4‐20/100 person‐years), of which 29% (n = 28/97) were life threatening (eg, somnolence). Most ADEs among incident monotherapy users were nervous system related (68%, n = 66/97).

Conclusion

Many older adult community dwelling traditional Medicare beneficiaries had clinically significant ADEs likely attributable to the initiation of anticonvulsant therapy, which was begun for a range of indications.
Effect of side chain phenyl group on the self‐assembled morphology of dipeptide hydrazides
Authors: Ohtomi Taku , Higashi Sayuri L. , Mori Daisuke , Shibata Aya , Kitamura Yoshiaki , Ikeda Masato
Published: October 2020

We report self‐assembled nanostructures of dipeptides hydrazides, in which alanine and/or phenylalanine are employed as components to investigate the effect of the side chain phenyl group on the morphology of self‐assembled nanostructures. We demonstrated that the dimensions of the self‐assembled nanostructures can vary from 1D (fiber and tubular) to 2D (sheet) solely by adjusting the position of the side chain phenyl group in the simple molecular scaffold of the dipeptide hydrazides. This study highlights the significance and potential of systematic investigations for fine‐tuning the morphology of aqueous self‐assembled structures of the dipeptide hydrazides with the aim of exploring functional soft nanomaterials.
An Updated Review of the Epidemiology of Swimming Injuries
Authors: Trinidad Alfonso , González‐Garcia Higinio , López‐Valenciano Alejandro
Published: October 2020

Objective

To carry out a systematic review to update the scientific evidence on the incidence and prevalence of injuries in the swimming discipline, as well as the location, type, and mechanism of the injuries, and to assess whether studies are meeting methodological recommendations for data collection and injury surveillance.

Type

Analytical‐Systematic review.

Literature Survey

The databases of PubMed and Sportdiscus were used to search for studies that describe the epidemiology of injuries in adult swimmers between 2010 and March 2020.

Methodology

Of the 864 articles identified, 14 studies were finally included in this review. The methodological quality of the studies was analyzed with the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) scale and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed.

Synthesis

The results showed a high prevalence of shoulder, knee, and lower back injuries among swimmers due to overuse. These injuries were mainly short‐term tendon muscles; there were reported data differences between genders.

Conclusions

Despite the publication of an injury surveillance single and multisport events document and a consensus on data collection and injury surveillance in swimming, there are huge methodological limitations that do not allow firm conclusions. As such, more epidemiological studies following guidelines for data collection and injury surveillance are needed to establish differences by gender, age group, and swimming stroke.
An attempt to simulate structure and realistic images of scratches on rough polymeric surfaces
Authors: Gao Weimin , Wang Lijing , Coffey Jolanta K. , Wu Hongren , Daver Fugen
Published: October 2020

Numerical simulation of scratching has been shown to exhibit many advantages in material development and surface design and can provide detailed information associated with the scratch structure. However, the visual appearance of simulated scratches in real‐world scenarios has seldom been studied. This study simulates the structure and visual appearance of scratches on rough polymer surfaces by combining the finite element method (FEM) with computer imaging (CI) techniques. FEM modeling of scratching incorporates a wide range of microgeometries in rough surfaces to ensure that the resulting scratch surfaces contain all features, regardless of whether they are visible to the human eye. Computer graphics produce realistic images of numeric scratch surfaces in real‐world lighting conditions. This method demonstrates the advantages of easily simulating scratches on rough surfaces and assessing both abrasion strength and visual scratch resistance. Scratch tests on commercial polymer surfaces at different scratch forces demonstrate that the method can satisfactorily predict the structures and scales of scratches. The simulated images correlate closely with camera‐acquired photographs in terms of the visual appearance of scratch surfaces, effect of lighting conditions, and dependence of the visual width of scratches on the scratching force, material, pigment, and additive in the material.
Growth of Cobalt and Silver Nanoparticles in Soda‐Lime Glasses
Authors: Faraj Rim , Goutaland François , Ollier Nadège
Published: October 2020

Spatially controlled growth of oxidize cobalt and silver nanoparticles (NPs) is successfully performed in commercial soda‐lime glass slides using successively field‐assisted solid‐state ion exchange and continuous wave ultraviolet laser exposure. Using different characterizations techniques, it is demonstrated that either CoO or Co3O4 NPs are formed, depending on the laser power. The optical properties of the silver NPs are characteristic of metallic silver, which does not suffer from oxidation. The experimental process opens a new way to combine the magnetic properties of Co3O4 NPs and the optical properties of Ag NPs.
Mechanism and kinetics of the reaction CH3 + CH3CHO: Ab initio semiclassical transition state theory study
Authors: Zokaie Meymanat , Hashemi S. Rasoul , Saheb Vahid
Published: October 2020

The potential energy profile of the reaction between methyl radicals with acetaldehyde is theoretically investigated at different levels of theory prior to calculating the bimolecular rate constants of this reaction by semiclassical transition state theory (SCTST) and one‐dimensional master equation (1DME) modeling. The stationary points on the potential energy surface of the reaction CH3 + CH3CHO are characterized at the levels MP2/6‐311 + g(2d,2p) and CCD/6‐311 + g(2d,2p). To obtain more satisfying energies, single‐point calculations are performed at CCSD(T)/augh‐cc‐pVTZ+2df. It is shown that the title reaction proceeds via either hydrogen abstraction channels or the addition of methyl radical to acetaldehyde, forming an isopropoxy radical. Then, SCTST and 1DME modeling are used to compare the rate constants of distinct reaction channels. The aldehyde hydrogen atom abstraction by methyl radical producing CH4 + CH3CO is dominant both thermodynamically and kinetically. The calculated SCTST rate constants can be expressed as a function of temperature with cm3molecule−1s−1 (200‐3000 K). Hydrogen/deuterium (H/D) isotopic effects on the kinetics are computed for some specific abstraction channels, showing that tunneling indeed plays a vital role in the hydrogen abstraction process. Pressure dependencies of the addition reaction are followed using master equation calculations, illustrating that the stabilization of the isopropoxy radical is dominant at higher pressures and lower temperatures. In contrast, as pressure decreases and temperature increases, the energized radical prefers decomposing to new bimolecular sets.
Anticoagulation outcomes in hospitalized Covid‐19 patients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of case‐control and cohort studies
Authors: Kamel Ahmed M. , Sobhy Mona , Magdy Nada , Sabry Nirmeen , Farid Samar
Published: October 2020

Background: Coagulopathy and thromboembolic events are common in Covid‐19 patients and are poor prognostic factors. Controversy exists regarding the potential of anticoagulation (AC) to reduce mortality and incidence of thromboembolic events in Covid‐19 patients. The current systematic review and meta‐analysis investigated the association between anticoagulants and mortality in adult hospitalized COVID‐19 patients using the available published non‐randomized studies. Methods: Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, the Cochrane Library and Clinical Trials.gov were searched for relevant studies. A meta‐analysis of adjusted and unadjusted estimates was performed. The relative risk was used as a measure of effect. The random‐effects model was used to pool estimates using the generic inverse variance method. Results: Sixteen studies were included in the quantitative data synthesis. Results showed a statistically significant association between AC and mortality (RR = 0.56, 95% CI 0.36; 0.92, p = 0.02). Both therapeutic (Relative risk [RR] = 0.4, 95% CI 0.27; 0.57) and prophylactic AC (RR = 0.54, 95% CI 0.41; 0.71) were associated with lower risk of mortality. Pre‐admission AC was not associated with mortality (RR = 0.84, 95% CI 0.49; 1.43, p > 0.05) while prophylactic AC was associated with higher risk of mortality compared to therapeutic AC (RR = 1.58, 95% CI 1.34; 1.87, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Findings support the association of AC with mortality in Covid‐19 patients. The results, synthesized from mostly low‐quality studies, show that prophylactic and therapeutic AC might reduce mortality in Covid‐19 patients. Findings suggest that therapeutic doses might be associated with better survival compared to prophylactic doses.
Experimental and numerical investigation of impact behavior of reinforced concrete slab with different support conditions
Authors: Yılmaz Tolga , Kıraç Nevzat , Anıl Özgür , Erdem Recep Tuğrul , Hoşkal Volkan
Published: October 2020

Reinforced concrete (RC) slabs may be subjected to impulsive dynamic loads such as blast and impact during their service period. Many studies related to the impact behavior of RC slabs have been presented. However, comprehensive studies where the effect of the support conditions on the impact behavior of RC slabs has been investigated are still limited. Thus, this study has focused on the effects of the support types and the support layouts on the dynamic responses and the failure modes of RC slabs subjected to impact loads. In the first part of the study, 9 two‐way RC slabs with various support layouts composed of fixed and hinged supports were tested under impact load via the drop‐weight test setup. Two different input impact energies were transmitted to RC slabs during impact loading. The time histories of the accelerations and displacements occurred in RC slabs, and the impact loads acting on RC slabs were recorded. The crack patterns due to the impact load were observed. The dynamic responses obtained by experiments have been interpreted in detail. In the second part, a detailed finite element procedure in which explicit dynamic analysis is performed has been introduced for verification of the experimental results. Good agreement between the experimental and the numerical results has been demonstrated. It has been concluded that proposed finite element procedures can be used for evaluation of the dynamic responses and failure modes of RC slabs under low‐velocity impact load.
Advances in Doped ZnO Nanostructures for Gas Sensor
Authors: Wang Chao‐Nan , Li Yu‐Liang , Gong Fei‐Long , Zhang Yong‐Hui , Fang Shao‐Ming , Zhang Hao‐Li
Published: October 2020

Gas sensors based on metal oxides semiconductor (MOS) have attracted extensive attention from both academic and industry. ZnO, as a typical MOS, exhibits potential applications in toxic gas detection, owning to its wide band gap, n‐type transport characteristic and excellent electrical performance. Meanwhile, doping is an effective way to improve the sensing performance of ZnO materials. In this review, the effects of different types of doping on morphology, crystal structure, band gap and depletion layer of ZnO materials are comprehensively discussed. Theoretical analysis on the strategies for enhancing the sensing properties of ZnO is also provided. This review puts forward the reasonable insight for designing efficient n‐type ZnO‐based semiconductor oxide sensing materials.
Sequential haematological and serum biochemical changes in Black Bengal goats infected with a local isolate of peste des petits ruminants virus from Bangladesh
Authors: Begum Shahana , Nooruzzaman Mohammed , Hasnat Azmary , Islam Mohammad Rafiqul , Chowdhury Emdadul Haque
Published: October 2020

Background

Knowledge of sequential changes in haematobiochemical parameters of infected animals helps in the formulation of appropriate supportive therapy.

Objective

We investigated the sequential haematological and biochemical changes in peste des petits ruminants (PPR)‐infected Black Bengal goats.

Methods

Goats were either infected with PPR virus (PPRV; n = 8) or sham infected with sterile phosphate‐buffered saline (n = 4) via the intranasal route. Blood and sera were collected from both groups at different days post‐infection (dpi) and analysed. Goats were sacrificed at different dpi and the amount of PPRV RNA in different tissues was quantified by real‐time RT‐PCR.

Results

The PPRV‐infected goats showed mild depression and scanty nasal secretions starting at 4 dpi which became severe with high fever (106°F), dyspnoea, stomatitis, profuse orinasal discharge and diarrhoea at 9–13 dpi. PPRV RNA was detected in different tissues of infected goats. Severe lymphocytic leukopenia (at 18 dpi) was observed in infected goats. Total protein and albumin decreased in infected goats starting at 10 dpi. An elevated level of enzymes (alkaline phosphatase, creatine kinase, aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase) and metabolites (blood urea nitrogen and urea B) were found in infected goats starting at 7–10 dpi, suggesting damages in the liver and kidneys. PPR‐infected goats showed elevated sodium and chloride ions starting at 7 dpi. The majority of infected goats were seroconverted by 14 dpi.

Conclusions

Anti‐diarrheal agents, aqua solutions and other medicine to support liver and kidney functions could be considered as supportive therapy against PPRV infection.
Tumoren der Mundhöhle
Authors: Rotzinger R. , Bachtiary B. , Pica A. , Weber D. C. , Ahlhelm F.
Published: October 2020

Klinisches/methodisches Problem

Mundhöhlenmalignome stellen weltweit die häufigsten Tumoren im Bereich der Hals-Nasen-Ohrenheilkunde bzw. Otorhinolaryngologie dar. Es handelt sich um eine heterogene Gruppe an Tumoren, deren Kenntnis erforderlich ist, um den unterschiedlichen Anforderungen an Diagnostik und Therapie gerecht zu werden.

Radiologische Standardverfahren

Computertomographie (CT), Magnetresonanztomographie (MRT), Sonographie, nuklearmedizinische Verfahren (NUK).

Leistungsfähigkeit

Die o. g. Diagnostika werden komplementär eingesetzt.

Bewertung

Eine frühzeitigere Diagnose des Tumors verbessert das Staging und somit die Therapie und Prognose des Patienten.

Schlussfolgerung

Dem Radiologen kommt bei der interdisziplinären Behandlung von Malignomen der Mundhöhle eine bedeutende Rolle zu. Trotz großer Fortschritte in der Radiotherapie, Onkologie und Immuntherapie spielt die Chirurgie weiterhin eine wichtige Rolle in der Behandlung maligner Erkrankungen der Mundhöhle.
Study of polyphenols, antioxidant capacity and minerals for the valorisation of ancient apple cultivars from Northeast Italy
Authors: Preti Raffaella , Tarola Anna Maria
Published: October 2020

Nutritional properties and quality of apple fruits can be related to presence of secondary metabolite contents such as phytochemicals and mineral elements. In this paper, eight polyphenols, four major minerals (Na, K, Mg, Ca), total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity were determined in fourteen ancient apple cultivars grown in Friuli Venezia Giulia (Northeast Italy) to highlight their nutraceutical properties. Both apple peel and pulp were examined separately and results were compared to those of six widespread commercial cultivars using principal component analysis. Ancient apples had much higher content in healthful compounds with respect to commercial varieties, particularly in the peel. Ancient cultivars showed a superior antioxidant capacity in peel (3- to 9- fold) and in pulp (2- to 5-fold) compared to commercial cultivars, with a good correlation with total phenolic content (R = 0.83 in peel and 0.69 in pulp). The polyphenols that mostly characterized the ancient apples pulp were catechins and flavonols. Regarding macro elements, K and Mg content were higher in ancient cultivars, while Na and Ca showed no significant differences. In the perspective of a sustainable economic and social development of local agricultural realities, these results contribute to the valorisation of ancient local apple cultivars as invaluable reservoir of genetic biodiversity to be promoted as functional food or exploited in breeding novel apple hybrids with high nutraceutical properties and better resistance to parasites.
Role of computed tomography texture analysis using dual-energy-based bone marrow imaging for multiple myeloma characterization: comparison with histology and established serologic parameters
Authors: Reinert Christian Philipp , Krieg Eva , Esser Michael , Nikolaou Konstantin , Bösmüller Hans , Horger Marius
Published: October 2020

Objective

To identify textural features on dual-energy CT (DECT)–based bone marrow images in myeloma which correlate with serum markers of myeloma activity and the degree of medullary involvement.

Methods

A total of 110 patients (63.0 ± 11.0 years, 51 female) who underwent unenhanced whole-body DECT between September 2015 and February 2019 were retrospectively included, which was approved by our institutional ethics committee with a waiver of the informed consent requirement. All patients had current hematologic laboratory tests. Using DECT post-processing, non-calcium bone marrow images were reconstructed. The vertebral bodies T10–L5 were segmented for quantification of textural features, which were compared with serologic parameters and myeloma stages by the Mann-Whitney U test. In a subgroup of 56/110 patients with current bone marrow biopsies, textural features were correlated with the degree of bone marrow infiltration.

Results

First-order features were higher in patients with advanced stage of myeloma (p < .02), whereas the 2nd-order “gray-level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM) cluster prominence” was lower (p < .04). In patients with elevated serum-free light chains (SFLC) or kappa/lambda SFLC ratio above 1.56, the “entropy” and 2nd-order GLCM features were lower (p < .03). The degree of bone marrow infiltration correlated with 1st-order features (e.g., “uniformity”; rP = 0.49; p < .0001), whereas “entropy” and 2nd-order GLCM features were negatively correlated (e.g., “difference entropy”; rP = − 0.54; p < .0001).

Conclusions

CT textural features applied on non-calcium bone marrow images correlate well with myeloma-related serologic parameters and histology showing a more uniform tissue structure and higher attenuation with increasing medullary infiltration and could therefore be used as additional imaging biomarkers for non-invasive assessment of medullary involvement.

Key Points

• Texture analysis applied on dual-energy reconstructed non-calcium bone marrow images provides information about marrow structure and attenuation.

• Myeloma-related serologic parameters and the degree of myeloma cell infiltration correlate with 1st- and 2nd-order features which could be useful as additional imaging biomarkers for non-invasive assessment of medullary involvement.
Robotische Assistenz bei den Aktivitäten des täglichen Lebens am Beispiel der Nahrungsaufnahme
Authors: Klein Barbara , Baumeister Annalies
Published: October 2020

Die Ausübung der Aktivitäten des täglichen Lebens (ADL, auch Basisaktivitäten) ist bei Funktionseinschränkungen und -verlusten, die mit dem Altern, mit Krankheiten oder Behinderung einhergehen, eingeschränkt bzw. nicht mehr möglich. Dafür gibt es heute schon eine Reihe von Hilfsmitteln und sogar robotische Produkte. Ziel dieses Beitrages ist es, exemplarisch für die Basisaktivität Nahrungsaufnahme einen Überblick über die vorhandenen Produkte für Menschen mit einer Tetraplegie aufgrund eines Unfalls oder neurologischer Erkrankungen wie multipler Sklerose oder amyotrophischer Lateralsklerose zu geben. Die Verbreitung dieser Systeme ist heute noch sehr überschaubar. Dazu werden hemmende und fördernde Faktoren für deren Verbreitung und Nutzung aufgezeigt.
Recent progress in maintenance treatment of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder
Authors: Holmøy Trygve , Høglund Rune Alexander , Illes Zsolt , Myhr Kjell-Morten , Torkildsen Øivind
Published: October 2020

Background

Treatment of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) has so far been based on retrospective case series. The results of six randomized clinical trials including five different monoclonal antibodies targeting four molecules and three distinct pathophysiological pathways have recently been published.

Methods

Literature search on clinical trials and case studies in NMOSD up to July 10. 2020.

Results

We review mechanism of action, efficacy and side effects, and consequences for reproductive health from traditional immunosuppressants and monoclonal antibodies including rituximab, inebilizumab, eculizumab, tocilizumab and satralizumab.

Conclusion

In NMOSD patients with antibodies against aquaporin 4, monoclonal antibodies that deplete B cells (rituximab and inebilizumab) or interfere with interleukin 6 signaling (tocilizumab and satralizumab) or complement activation (eculizumab) have superior efficacy compared to placebo. Tocilizumab and rituximab were also superior to azathioprine in head-to-head studies. Rituximab, tocilizumab and to some extent eculizumab have well-known safety profiles for other inflammatory diseases, and rituximab and azathioprine may be safe during pregnancy.
Seizures associated with antibodies against cell surface antigens are acute symptomatic and not indicative of epilepsy: insights from long-term data
Authors: Rada Anna , Birnbacher Robert , Gobbi Claudio , Kurthen Martin , Ludolph Albert , Naumann Markus , Neirich Ulrike , von Oertzen Tim J. , Ransmayr Gerhard , Riepe Matthias , Schimmel Mareike , Schwartz Oliver , Surges Rainer , Bien Christian G.
Published: October 2020

Background

Clinicians have questioned whether any disorder involving seizures and neural antibodies should be called “(auto)immune epilepsy.” The concept of “acute symptomatic seizures” may be more applicable in cases with antibodies against neural cell surface antigens. We aimed at determining the probability of achieving seizure-freedom, the use of anti-seizure medication (ASM), and immunotherapy in patients with either constellation. As a potential pathophysiological correlate, we analyzed antibody titer courses.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of 39 patients with seizures and neural antibodies, follow-up ≥ 3 years.

Results

Patients had surface antibodies against the N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR, n = 6), leucine-rich glioma inactivated protein 1 (LGI1, n = 11), contactin-associated protein-2 (CASPR2, n = 8), or antibodies against the intracellular antigens glutamic acid decarboxylase 65 kDa (GAD65, n = 13) or Ma2 (n = 1). Patients with surface antibodies reached first seizure-freedom (88% vs. 7%, P < 0.001) and terminal seizure-freedom (80% vs. 7%, P < 0.001) more frequently. The time to first and terminal seizure-freedom and the time to freedom from ASM were shorter in the surface antibody group (Kaplan–Meier curves: P < 0.0001 for first seizure-freedom; P < 0.0001 for terminal seizure-freedom; P = 0.0042 for terminal ASM-freedom). Maximum ASM defined daily doses were higher in the groups with intracellular antibodies. Seizure-freedom was achieved after additional immunotherapy, not always accompanied by increased ASM doses. Titers of surface antibodies but not intracellular antibodies decreased over time.

Conclusion

Seizures with surface antibodies should mostly be considered acute symptomatic and transient and not indicative of epilepsy. This has consequences for ASM prescription and social restrictions. Antibody titers correlate with clinical courses.
Cross-links in posterior pedicle screw-rod instrumentation of the spine: a systematic review on mechanical, biomechanical, numerical and clinical studies
Authors: Cornaz Frédéric , Widmer Jonas , Snedeker Jess Gerrit , Spirig José Miguel , Farshad Mazda
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Dorsal screw-rod instrumentations are used for a variety of spinal disorders. Cross-links (CL) can be added to such constructs, however, no clear recommendations exist. This study aims to provide an overview of the available evidence on the effectiveness of CL, potentially allowing to formulate recommendations on their use.

Methods

A systematic literature review was performed on PubMed and 37 original articles were included and grouped into mechanical, biomechanical, finite element and clinical studies. The change in range of motion (ROM) was analyzed in mechanical and biomechanical studies, ROM, stiffness and stress distribution were evaluated in finite element studies and clinical outcome parameters were analyzed in clinical studies.

Results

A relative consistent reduction in ROM in axial rotation with CL-augmentation was reported, while minor and less consistent effects were observed in flexion–extension and lateral bending. The use of CLs was clinical beneficial in C1/2 fusion, while the limited clinical studies on other anatomic regions show no significant benefit for CL-augmentation.

Conclusion

While CL provides some additional axial rotation stability in most situations, lateral bending and flexion–extension are less affected. Based on clinical data, CL-augmentation can only be recommended for C1/2 instrumentations, while for other cases, further clinical studies are needed to allow for evidence-based recommendations.
Cranioplasty following ventriculoperitoneal shunting: lessons learned
Authors: Hirschmann Dorian , Kranawetter Beate , Kirchschlager Constanze , Tomschik Matthias , Wais Jonathan , Winter Fabian , Millesi Matthias , Herta Johannes , Roessler Karl , Dorfer Christian
Published: October 2020

Objective

Cranioplasty (CP) is considered as a straightforward and technically unchallenging operation; however, complication rates are high reaching up to 56%. Presence of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) and timing of CP are reported risk factors for complications. Pressure gradients and scarring at the site of the cranial defect seem to be critical in this context. The authors present their experiences and lessons learned.

Methods

A consecutive series of all patients who underwent CP at the authors’ institution between 2002 and 2017 were included in this retrospective analysis. Complications were defined as all events that required reoperation. Logistic regression analysis and chi-squared test were conducted to evaluate the complication rates according to suspected risk factors.

Results

A total of 302 patients underwent cranioplasty between 2002 and 2017. The overall complication rate was 17.5%. Complications included epi-/subdural fluid collection (7.3%) including hemorrhage (4.6%) and hygroma (2.6%), bone graft resorption (5.3%), bone graft infection (2.0%), and hydrocephalus (5.7%). Overall, 57 patients (18.9%) had undergone shunt implantation prior to CP. The incidence of epi-/subdural fluid collection was 19.3% in patients with VPS and 4.5% in patients without VPS, OR 5.1 (95% CI 2.1–12.4). Incidence of hygroma was higher in patients who underwent early CP. Patients with temporary shunt ligation for CP did not suffer from complications.

Conclusion

CP in patients with a VPS remains a high-risk procedure. Any effort to understand the pressure dynamics and to reduce factors that may trigger the formation of a large epidural space must be undertaken.
Resident CD34-positive cells contribute to peri-endothelial cells and vascular morphogenesis in salivary gland after irradiation
Authors: I Takashi , Ueda Yuichiro , Wörsdörfer Philipp , Sumita Yoshinori , Asahina Izumi , Ergün Süleyman
Published: October 2020

Salivary gland (SG) hypofunction is a common post-radiotherapy complication. Besides the parenchymal damage after irradiation (IR), there are also effects on mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) which were shown to contribute to regeneration and repair of damaged tissues by differentiating into stromal cell types or releasing vesicles and soluble factors supporting the healing processes. However, there are no adequate reports about their roles during SG damage and regeneration so far. Using an irradiated SG mouse model, we performed certain immunostainings on tissue sections of submandibular glands at different time points after IR. Immunostaining for CD31 revealed that already one day after IR, vascular impairment was induced at the level of capillaries. In addition, the expression of CD44—a marker of acinar cells—diminished gradually after IR and, by 20 weeks, almost disappeared. In contrast, the number of CD34-positive cells significantly increased 4 weeks after IR and some of the CD34-positive cells were found to reside within the adventitia of arteries and veins. Laser confocal microscopic analyses revealed an accumulation of CD34-positive cells within the area of damaged capillaries where they were in close contact to the CD31-positive endothelial cells. At 4 weeks after IR, a fraction of the CD34-positive cells underwent differentiation into α-SMA-positive cells, which suggests that they may contribute to regeneration of smooth muscle cells and/or pericytes covering the small vessels from the outside. In conclusion, SG-resident CD34-positive cells represent a population of progenitors that could contribute to new vessel formation and/or remodeling of the pre-existing vessels after IR and thus, might be an important player during SG tissue healing.
Randomized controlled trials—a critical re-appraisal
Authors: Mielke Dorothee , Rohde Veit
Published: October 2020

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are considered to represent the gold standard of scientific studies and paved the way for evidence-based medicine (EBM). Besides the initial aim to improve the quality of patient care, EBM is used in the meanwhile for political and economic decision-making and legal issues as well. A review of the literature was performed, followed by a search using links and references of the detected articles. Additionally, homepages for German institutions of public health were screened. Substantial limitations of RCTs and EBM health care could be identified. Based on the selected literature, 80% of the medical treatments have low evidence. RCTs are expensive and are mainly performed by the industry nowadays. A publication bias for positive results exists. Some RCTs are of low external validity. Many studies have a low fragility index. Nonetheless, negative RCTs could be of benefit for the patients. The results of RCTs, gained in a distinct patient population, are partially generalized. RCTs should be analyzed critically before adopting the results to daily clinical routine. It is not really justified to use RCTs and EBM for political and economic decision-making and legal issues as seen today.
BMP6/TAZ-Hippo signaling modulates angiogenesis and endothelial cell response to VEGF
Authors: Pulkkinen H. H. , Kiema M. , Lappalainen J. P. , Toropainen A. , Beter M. , Tirronen A. , Holappa L. , Niskanen H. , Kaikkonen M. U. , Ylä-Herttuala S. , Laakkonen Johanna P.
Published: October 2020

The BMP/TGFβ-Smad, Notch and VEGF signaling guides formation of endothelial tip and stalk cells. However, the crosstalk of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) signaling has remained largely unknown. We demonstrate that BMP family members regulate VEGFR2 and Notch signaling, and act via TAZ-Hippo signaling pathway. BMPs were found to be regulated after VEGF gene transfer in C57/Bl6 mice and in a porcine myocardial ischemia model. BMPs 2/4/6 were identified as endothelium-specific targets of VEGF. BMP2 modulated VEGF-mediated endothelial sprouting via Delta like Canonical Notch Ligand 4 (DLL4). BMP6 modulated VEGF signaling by regulating VEGFR2 expression and acted via Hippo signaling effector TAZ, known to regulate cell survival/proliferation, and to be dysregulated in cancer. In a matrigel plug assay in nude mice BMP6 was further demonstrated to induce angiogenesis. BMP6 is the first member of BMP family found to directly regulate both Hippo signaling and neovessel formation. It may thus serve as a target in pro/anti-angiogenic therapies.
On the inverses of Kasami and Bracken–Leander exponents
Authors: Kölsch Lukas
Published: October 2020

We explicitly determine the binary representation of the inverse of all Kasami exponents $$K_r=2^{2r}-2^r+1$$

K
r

=

2

2
r

-

2
r

+
1

modulo $$2^n-1$$

2
n

-
1

for all possible values of n and r. This includes as an important special case the APN Kasami exponents with $$\gcd (r,n)=1$$

gcd
(
r
,
n
)
=
1

. As a corollary, we determine the algebraic degree of the inverses of the Kasami functions. In particular, we show that the inverse of an APN Kasami function on $${\mathbb {F}}_{2^n}$$

F

2
n

always has algebraic degree $$\frac{n+1}{2}$$

n
+
1

2

if $$n\equiv 0 \pmod 3$$

n
≡
0

(
mod

3
)

. For $$n\not \equiv 0 \pmod 3$$

n
≢
0

(
mod

3
)

we prove that the algebraic degree is bounded from below by $$\frac{n}{3}$$

n
3

. We consider Kasami exponents whose inverses are quadratic exponents or Kasami exponents. We also determine the binary representation of the inverse of the Bracken–Leander exponent $$BL_r=2^{2r}+2^r+1$$

B

L
r

=

2

2
r

+

2
r

+
1

modulo $$2^n-1$$

2
n

-
1

where $$n=4r$$

n
=
4
r

and r odd. We show that the algebraic degree of the inverse of the Bracken–Leander function is $$\frac{n+2}{2}$$

n
+
2

2

.
Livelihood diversification as key to long-term non-migration: evidence from coastal Bangladesh
Authors: Biswas Bangkim , Mallick Bishawjit
Published: October 2020

Understanding how livelihood diversification contributes to long-term non-migration decisions of people at risks is innovative and timely in the context of future climate change adaptation planning. This study particularly examines this question and explores how and to what extent livelihood diversification in the face of climate change can support long-term non-migration for people living in the southwest coastal region of Bangladesh. We employed a cluster random sampling method to select the respondents and interviewed a total of 183 households by using a structured questionnaire. Analysis indicates that the tendency of livelihood diversification based on shrimp-farming has been intensified in recent years as the land use pattern also changed due to the frequent occurrence of environmental hazards. The Poisson regression model states that belonging to a religious minority and shrimp farming determines the extent of livelihood diversification, i.e., if the person belongs to a minority religion and possesses a shrimp-farm they will have more diversified sources of income compared to others living in the society. Moreover, therefore, one in every three households in these studied communities’ practices seasonal migration as an alternative livelihood strategy so that their family can stay put. The outcome of this study motivates the government and non-government organizations to take policies and programs in a direction that may reduce the dependency on seasonal migration and introduce locally adoptable diversified employment opportunities.
Conformal Invariance of the Newtonian Weyl Tensor
Authors: Dewar Neil , Read James
Published: October 2020

It is well-known that the conformal structure of a relativistic spacetime is of profound physical and conceptual interest. In this note, we consider the analogous structure for Newtonian theories. We show that the Newtonian Weyl tensor is an invariant of this structure.
Threshold concepts and certainty: a critical analysis of ‘troublesomeness’
Authors: Stopford Richard
Published: October 2020

The threshold concept framework is a key contemporary theory in pedagogy. The core idea is that ‘threshold concepts’ are distinctively ‘troublesome’ for students and act as gatekeepers to their disciplines. No doubt the theory is compelling because there is surely something right about this. Student difficulty with conceptual material is familiar to all teaching practitioners. Furthermore, to avoid rote levels of understanding, mastery of discipline-specific conceptual material is key. However, TCF has struggled to articulate key dimensions of its theory: it is without a methodology for identifying threshold concepts. It has also faltered in explaining how student difficulty is a function of difficulties endemic to the concepts, rather than as a contingent phenomenon about individual students.

I offer a novel way to think about identifying threshold concepts, and for theorising student difficulties which may arise from those concepts. I argue that there is an ‘existential’ kind of certainty which acts as a framework within which epistemic activities take place. Disciplines which theorise concepts in ways that clash with students’ existential certainties are candidates for threshold concepts and may generate ‘objective’ difficulties for students. As much as I think theorising existential certainty helps TCF overcome theoretical challenges, it would require revisions to the way that it is currently being theorised and applied. I also believe that even without attachments to TCF, ‘existential certainty’ is a real phenomenon, shaping the very possibilities of student experience, and which any pedagogical theory should be aware of.
Explicit Solution of the Generalised Langevin Equation
Authors: Di Terlizzi Ivan , Ritort Felix , Baiesi Marco
Published: October 2020

Generating an initial condition for a Langevin equation with memory is a non trivial issue. We introduce a generalisation of the Laplace transform as a useful tool for solving this problem, in which a limit procedure may send the extension of memory effects to arbitrary times in the past. This method allows us to compute average position, work, their variances and the entropy production rate of a particle dragged in a complex fluid by an harmonic potential, which could represent the effect of moving optical tweezers. For initial conditions in equilibrium we generalise the results by van Zon and Cohen, finding the variance of the work for generic protocols of the trap. In addition, we study a particle dragged for a long time captured in an optical trap with constant velocity in a steady state. Our formulas open the door to thermodynamic uncertainty relations in systems with memory.
The Role of Classmates’ Modeling and Reinforcement in Adolescents’ Perceived Classroom Peer Context
Authors: Mertens Esther C. A. , Deković Maja , Van Londen Monique , Reitz Ellen
Published: October 2020

Experiences with classmates can affect adolescents’ academic, emotional, and social development. The aim was to examine whether changes in classmates’ modeling and reinforcement, induced by an intervention, affected changes in adolescents’ perceived classroom peer context and whether these associations were moderated by dyadic mutuality. Questionnaires and observations were used in a sample of 7th Grade students (N = 152; Mage = 12.37; 53.8% boys). Generally, changes in classmates’ modeling and reinforcement were unrelated to adolescents’ perceived classroom peer context, except for classmates’ prosocial modeling. Increases in prosocial modeling were related to decreases in victimization, especially for dyads with high levels of mutuality. The results suggest that classmates’ prosocial modeling may be more important for the perceived classroom peer context than classmates’ deviant modeling.
Departures and returns: cultural identities, historical traumas and personal paths in Susan R. Suleiman’s Budapest Diary
Authors: Z. Varga Zoltán
Published: October 2020

This paper studiesBudapest Diary(1996), a cross-genre autobiographical work by Susan Suleiman, a renowned Hungarian-born scholar in comparative literature. Suleiman’s life writing offers particularly interesting reading possibilities; it allows us to study recent theoretical issues from historical traumas to multicultural and multi-linguistic identity constructions. My paper focuses on how Suleiman examines her past as a literary critic and expert on the modern novel, how her theoretical background as a comparatist formed and fashioned her autobiographical project. A close reading of herBudapest Diaryreveals not only the generic patterns, the narrative and poetical means borrowed from her literary formation but also theories that enable the author to analyze her past, the social, cultural and historical determinations manifested in her life story. My interpretation devotes special attention to the image of Eastern-Europe developed in Suleiman’s autobiographical work. I analyze the way the work of the author, who returned to her homeland as an adult, seeks not only to find the reasons for burying the past burdened with collective historical traumas, but also tries to discover the regional components of identity, of the cultural otherness of East-Central Europe. The paper aims to show how collective and personal stakes are intertwined in the difficult process of reacquiring her Hungarian past in the light of her relationship with her parents (especially with her mother), and that of the history of Jewish people in Eastern Europe during the 20thcentury.
Controlling transient gas flow in real-world pipeline intersection areas
Authors: Hennings Felix , Anderson Lovis , Hoppmann-Baum Kai , Turner Mark , Koch Thorsten
Published: October 2020

Compressor stations are the heart of every high-pressure gas transport network. Located at intersection areas of the network, they are contained in huge complex plants, where they are in combination with valves and regulators responsible for routing and pushing the gas through the network. Due to their complexity and lack of data compressor stations are usually dealt with in the scientific literature in a highly simplified and idealized manner. As part of an ongoing project with one of Germany’s largest transmission system operators to develop a decision support system for their dispatching center, we investigated how to automatize the control of compressor stations. Each station has to be in a particular configuration, leading in combination with the other nearby elements to a discrete set of up to 2000 possible feasible operation modes in the intersection area. Since the desired performance of the station changes over time, the configuration of the station has to adapt. Our goal is to minimize the necessary changes in the overall operation modes and related elements over time while fulfilling a preset performance envelope or demand scenario. This article describes the chosen model and the implemented mixed-integer programming based algorithms to tackle this challenge. By presenting extensive computational results on real-world data, we demonstrate the performance of our approach.