bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Empathy matters: 10 leadership strategies for times of uncertainty
Authors: Imad Mays
Published: May 2020

“She is a friend of my mind. She gather me, man. The pieces I am, she gather them and give them back to me in all the right order.”

— Toni Morrison
Implement success strategies for supervising staff members working remotely
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: May 2020

As more staff members find themselves working from home, supervisors need to adjust their strategies for keeping staff connected, motivated, and productive.
Keep your mission student‐centered, even in the face of crisis
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: May 2020

Jay Gatrell, Ph.D., Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Eastern Illinois University, understands what it means to really live out the mission of his institution in everything he does. Gatrell spent 14 years of his academic career at Indiana State University, an opportunity that afforded him the chance to work in many different roles of academic leadership, including Associate Dean, Interim Chair, Acting Chair, and Dean of the Graduate School and Chief Research Officer.
The interactive effects of parental self‐efficacy and child eating styles in relation to naturalistically‐assessed craving, overeating, and loss of control eating
Authors: Smith Kathryn E. , Haedt‐Matt Alissa , Dougherty Elizabeth N. , Ivins‐Lukse Melissa , Goldschmidt Andrea B.
Published: May 2020

Objective

Parental factors have been linked to weight‐related outcomes in children, though less is known regarding the role of parental self‐efficacy (PSE) for promoting healthy dietary behaviors (HDBs). This study examined associations between PSE for promoting HDBs and child reports of craving, overeating, and loss of control eating in daily life. The interactive effects of PSE and child eating style (emotional eating, external eating, and restraint) were also explored.

Method

Thirty‐eight youth (ages 8–14; 55.3% female) with overweight/obesity and their parents completed the Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire for Children (DEBQ‐C) and Parental Self‐Efficacy for Healthy Dietary and Physical Activity Behaviors Scale, respectively. Youth completed ecological momentary assessment (EMA) to report craving, overeating, and loss of control eating.

Results

Generalized estimating equations indicated no consistent main effects of PSE on EMA outcomes, but PSE interacted with DEBQ‐C child eating styles to predict each EMA outcome. Among children of parents with lower PSE, (a) higher emotional eating was associated with greater overeating and loss of control eating; (b) higher external eating was associated with greater craving; and (c) higher restraint was associated with greater loss of control eating and craving. Conversely, these associations were attenuated among children of parents with higher PSE.

Discussion

Together findings suggest the interplay of child characteristics and PSE regarding children's eating behaviors warrants future investigation in the context of eating and weight disorders. In particular, further research is needed to examine the directionality of effects and mechanisms underlying these associations.
Joint seasonality in geographic and ecological spaces, illustrated with a partially migratory bird
Authors: Basille Mathieu , Watling James , Romañach Stephanie , Borkhataria Rena
Published: May 2020

As most species live in seasonal environments, considering varying conditions is essential to understand species dynamics in both geographic and ecological spaces. Both resident and migratory species need to contend with seasonality and balance settling in favorable areas with tracking favorable environmental conditions during the year. We present an exploratory framework to jointly investigate a species' niche in geographic and ecological spaces, applied to wood storks (Mycteria americana), which are partially migratory wading birds, in the southeastern United States. We concurrently described monthly geographic distributions and climatic niches based on temperature and precipitation. Geographic distributions of wood storks were more similar throughout the year than were climatic niches, suggesting that birds stay within specific areas seasonally, rather than tracking areas of similar climate. However, wood storks expressed consistent selection of warm areas during the winter, and wet areas during the summer, indicating that the selection of seasonal ranges may be directly related to environmental conditions across the entire range. Our flexible framework, which simultaneously considered geographic and ecological spaces, suggested that tracking climate alone did not explain seasonal distributions of wood storks in breeding and non‐breeding areas.
Habitat network topology influences the importance of ecological traps in metapopulations
Authors: Edge Christopher B. , Fortin Marie‐Josée
Published: May 2020

The majority of species exist in metapopulations, where populations are linked to one another through dispersal. Disturbances (natural or anthropogenic) are known to affect population vital rates which can reverberate to the metapopulations through dispersal, which is determined by the topology of the habitat network (i.e., the number of patches and their spatial layout). Within a habitat network, disturbed patches become sinks or ecological traps depending on whether individuals avoid or are attracted to the disturbed patch. Ecological traps occur when individuals preferentially disperse to patches that result in low fitness which can have severe consequences for metapopulations. However, the effects of ecological traps should be considered relative to a number of factors, such as the number of disturbed patches, the fitness cost of the disturbance, and dispersal. Further, the relative importance of each factor can vary among different habitat network topologies according to the position and role of the disturbed patches for maintaining the functional connectivity of the entire metapopulation. Using a spatially explicit stochastic stage‐based metapopulation model based on amphibian life history, we investigate how the number of disturbed patches, fitness cost of the disturbance, dispersal rate, and attractiveness of disturbed habitat patches affect the persistence of metapopulations in different habitat network topologies (random, tree, and full). Overall, dispersal, the number of disturbed patches, and the fitness penalty of the disturbance were the most important factors affecting mean metapopulation growth rate, the probability of extinction, and time to extinction. Ecological traps had the largest effect in the tree network topology where the number of links between patches was limited. For all network topologies studied, larger negative effects were observed when disturbed patches were centrally located in the network. Reducing the number and spatial correlation of disturbances is known to be a reliable conservation strategy, we add the importance of considering the location of disturbances within habitat networks and network topology.
Leucocyte count predicts cardiovascular risk in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: insights from TOPCAT Americas
Authors: Bajaj Navkaranbir S. , Kalra Rajat , Gupta Kartik , Aryal Sudeep , Rajapreyar Indranee , Lloyd Steven G. , McConathy Jonathan , Shah Sanjiv J. , Prabhu Sumanth D.
Published: May 2020

Aims

Prior evidence has implicated leucocyte expansion in several cardiovascular disorders, including heart failure (HF) with reduced ejection fraction (rEF). However, the prognostic importance of leucocyte count in HF with preserved EF (HFpEF) remains largely unexplored.

Methods and results

The Americas cohort of the treatment of preserved cardiac function heart failure with an aldosterone antagonist (TOPCAT‐Americas) was used to evaluate the association between total leucocyte count and clinical outcomes in HFpEF. The primary outcome was a composite of aborted cardiac arrest, cardiovascular mortality, or hospitalization for HF. Secondary outcomes were hospitalization for HF, aborted cardiac arrest, stroke, non‐fatal myocardial infarction (MI), cardiovascular mortality, non‐cardiovascular mortality, and all‐cause mortality. Survival models were used to identify the risk of the primary and secondary outcomes in those with leucocyte count above the median (7100 cells/μL), as compared to those with leucocyte count below the median, during the follow‐up period. A total of 1746 (out of 1767; 99%) patients from TOPCAT‐Americas were available for the analyses with a median follow up of 2.4 (25th to 75th percentile 1.4–3.9) years. Patients with leucocyte count >7100 cells/μL were 36% more likely to experience the primary endpoint compared to those with ≤7100 cells/μL (hazard ratio: 1.36, 95% confidence interval: 1.14–1.61). This association remained significant after extensive adjustment for potential confounders (hazard ratio: 1.27, 95% confidence interval: 1.06–1.52). We also observed a greater incidence of HF hospitalization and non‐fatal MI in patients with higher leucocyte count. These associations remained robust on sensitivity analyses, suggesting a low probability of confounding. Exploratory analyses suggested that both higher leucocyte count (integrating the combined influence of both myeloid and lymphoid immune cells) and augmented platelet count (as a surrogate for myeloid immune cell expansion) in the same model were associated with the primary outcome (both P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Leucocyte count >7100 cells/μL was independently associated with adverse clinical outcomes in HFpEF patients from TOPCAT‐Americas. These results were primarily driven by the HF hospitalization outcome but were also accompanied by an excess of non‐fatal MI. Further research is needed to define the mechanisms underlying our findings and their prognostic implications.
Modifications of medical treatment and outcome after percutaneous correction of secondary mitral regurgitation
Authors: Stolfo Davide , Castrichini Matteo , Biagini Elena , Compagnone Miriam , De Luca Antonio , Caiffa Thomas , Berardini Alessandra , Vitrella Giancarlo , Korcova Renata , Perkan Andrea , Foroni Marco , Merlo Marco , Barbati Giulia , Saia Francesco , Rapezzi Claudio , Sinagra Gianfranco
Published: May 2020

Aims

The optimization of guideline‐directed medical therapy (GDMT) in reduced ejection fraction heart failure (HFrEF) is associated with improved survival and can reduce the severity of secondary mitral regurgitation (SMR). Highest tolerated doses should be achieved before percutaneous mitral valve repair (pMVR) and drugs titration further pursued after procedure. The degree of GDMT titration in patients with HFrEF and SMR treated with pMVR remains unexplored. We sought to evaluate the adherence to GDMT in HFrEF in patients undergoing pMVR and to explore the association between changes in GDMT post‐pMVR and prognosis.

Methods and results

We included all the patients with HFrEF and SMR ≥ 3 + treated with pMVR between 2012 and 2019 and with available follow‐up. GDMT, comprehensive of dosages, was systematically recorded. The study endpoint was a composite of death and heart transplantation. Among 133 patients successfully treated, 121 were included (67 ± 12 years old, 77% male patients). Treatment rates of angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers/angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitor (ACEIs/ARBs/ARNI), beta‐blockers, and mineralcorticoid receptor antagonist at baseline and follow‐up were 73% and 79%, 85% and 84%, 70% and 70%, respectively. At baseline, 33% and 32% of patients were using >50% of the target dose of ACEI/ARB/ARNI and beta‐blockers. At follow‐up (median time 4 months), 33% of patients unchanged, 34% uptitrated, and 33% of patients downtitrated GDMT. Downtitration of GDMT was independently associated with higher risk of death/heart transplantation (hazard ratio: 2.542, 95%confidence interval: 1.377–4.694, P = 0.003).

Conclusions

Guideline‐directed medical therapy is frequently underdosed in HFrEF patients with SMR undergoing pMVR. Downtitration of medications after procedure is associated with poor prognosis.
Exemplifying complexity of immune suppression by a “canonical” speech: A glimpse into TNFRSF‐activated signaling pathways in Treg cells
Authors: Ayroldi Emira , Grohmann Ursula
Published: May 2020

Regulatory T (Treg) cells are crucial mediators of immune tolerance suppressing self‐reactive T cells and preventing autoimmune diseases. Besides activation of the T cell receptor (TCR), empowerment of Treg cell functions requires co‐accessory signals, such as those released by the TNF receptor superfamily (TNFRSF) that, however, can also promote immunostimulatory responses when engaged by effector T cells. In this issue of European Journal of Immunology, Lubrano di Ricco et al. [Eur. J. Immunol. 2020. 50: 972–985] have taken a closer look at the important question of the functional meaning of TNFRSF‐activated signaling pathways in Treg cells. They have demonstrated that costimulation by TNFR2, 4‐1BB, GITR, DR3, but not OX40 in mouse Foxp3+ Treg cells activates the same and unique signaling pathway, i.e., canonical NF‐κB, which in turn leads to Foxp3 gene upregulation, cell expansion in vitro and in vivo, and suppressive activity in an experimental model of colitis. Moreover, induction of markers of T helper 2 (Th2) and Th17 as well as of genes encoding proteins involved in noncanonical NF‐κΒ was also observed. We here discussed how these findings further highlight the emerging concept of Treg cell plasticity in immune tolerance.
Head and neck paragangliomas: 30‐year experience
Authors: Valero Cristina , Ganly Ian , Shah Jatin P.
Published: May 2020

Background

We aimed to review our experience and the changing trends in the management of head and neck paragangliomas (HNPG) over the last three decades.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 103 patients with HNPG treated at our center (1986‐2017). We included patients treated with surgery, radiotherapy, and patients maintained under active surveillance.

Results

Of the surgically treated patients (n = 79), 20% (12/59) of the carotid body tumors (CBT) had a cranial nerve deficit as sequela compared to 95% (19/20) of the non‐CBT. Radiotherapy controlled growth in all tumors treated with this modality (n = 10). Of the initially observed patients, 70% (14/20) remained stable and did not require additional treatment. Stratifying by decades, there was a progressive increase in patients initially attempted to be observed and a decrease in upfront surgery. No deaths attributable to the HNPG were encountered.

Conclusions

Surgery is an effective treatment for CBT. Nonsurgical treatment should be considered for non‐CBT.
Large eddy simulation of flow over square cylinder arrays in an octagonal configuration at subcritical Reynolds numbers
Authors: Kumar Rajesh , Singh Nirmal Kant
Published: May 2020

In this study, fluid flow over an array of eight, 0.029 m × 0.029 m, square cross‐section cylinders in an octagonal configuration is studied numerically. The mean force coefficients (drag and lift) and the vortex formation characteristics of the array are calculated numerically by utilizing a three‐dimensional large eddy simulation mathematical model for turbulence. The numerical simulation is performed with commercial software ANSYS Fluent 19R1. To investigate the parametric influences, three spacings between the cylinders (0.07, 0.14, and 0.2 m), two array attack angles (0° and 15°), and two Reynolds numbers (4060 and 45 800) are considered. The results comprise flow patterns and force coefficients' variations with Reynolds numbers. The lift force of the downstream cylinder reaches its maximum at α = 15°, and the drag force of the upstream cylinders finds its peak at α = 0°. It is observed through velocity and viscosity contour plots that vortex formation length near the cylinder increases at higher Reynolds number. Velocity vector plots are also presented to show fluid flow behavior near the cylinder. Furthermore, the predicted mean forces on the cylinders are slightly different for different Reynolds numbers, spacings, and angles of attack.
Fuel Cells and Biofuel Cells: From Past to Perspectives
Authors: Katz Evgeny , Bollella Paolo
Published: May 2020

This review aims at summarizing the history and state‐of‐the‐art in the areas of fuel and biofuel cells. The paper is addressed to a broad audience including experts and particularly to newcomers and students. Some parts of the review, particularly about fuel cells of different kinds, are rather general and mostly addressed to students, however, sections related to biofuel cells are more specialized and will be interesting for researchers working in this novel and challenging area. Many aspects discussed in the article represent personal opinions of the authors. The article is aimed at providing interesting and easy for reading material representing more concepts than specific experimental data. If the readers get excited about the topic, the authors’ goals will be satisfied.
Recent developments of metallic nanoparticles and their catalytic activity in organic reactions
Authors: Amirmahani Najmeh , Mahmoodi Nosrat O. , Bahramnejad Mahboubeh , Seyedi Neda
Published: May 2020

During the last two decades, with the development of nanotechnology, various nanomaterials have been designed and generated. Among them, hybrid organic–inorganic nanoparticles as a particular immobilizing carrier of the catalyst active sites have shown an important contribution in the current research studies. This is due to the large area and loads of active sites. This prominent review is focused on the novel various exa about the immobilization of nanoparticles with organic compounds as versatile and efficient catalysts in organic syntheses.
Prevalence and characteristics of surgical site hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates
Authors: Zhao Qiang , Guo Ling , Wang Li‐Feng , Zhao Qian , Shen Ding‐Xia
Published: May 2020

Background

We aim to determine the prevalence of hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae (hvKp), which causes surgical site infections (SSIs), and describe the microbiological and molecular characteristics of hvKp isolates.

Methods

Non‐duplicate K. pneumoniae strains were isolated from wound drainage specimens of postoperative patients at the Chinese PLA General Hospital between September 2008 and July 2017. Antimicrobial susceptibility, string test, pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), and genome sequencing analyses were performed.

Results

Fifty‐one K. pneumoniae strains were isolated from wound drainage specimens collected from postoperative patients. Twenty‐six hvKp strains, including 17 (17/37, 46.0%) and 9 (9/14, 64.3%) hvKp strains, were isolated from 37 and 14 patients with SSIs and community‐acquired infections (CAIs), respectively. Notably, 4 extended‐spectrum beta‐lactamase (ESBL)‐producing hvKp strains (4/26, 15.4%) and 2 carbapenem‐resistant hvKp strains (2/26, 7.7%) were found. Thirteen K1 serotype (13/26, 50.0%) and 7 K2 serotype (7/26, 26.9%) strains were identified. Phylogenetic analysis results showed that 13 K1 serotype isolates exhibited a high degree of clonality, while 7 K2 serotype strains were genetically unrelated. MLST analysis indicated that there was a strong correlation between ST23 and the K1 serotype. ST65, ST86, and ST375 were prevalent in K2 serotype strains. Almost all hvKp strains (24/26, 92.3%) harbored large virulence plasmids with a high degree of homology to pNTUH‐K2044 and sizes ranging from 140 to 220 kbp.

Conclusions

HvKp strains were prevalent in SSIs. Effective surveillance and control measures should be implemented to prevent the dissemination of such organisms, including the ESBL‐producing and carbapenem‐resistant hvKp strains.
Analysis of the autoimmune regulator (AIRE) gene variant rs2075876 (G/A) association with breast cancer susceptibility
Authors: Fawzy Manal S. , Toraih Eman A.
Published: May 2020

Background

Recently, unexpected autoimmune regulator (AIRE) implication in the scenario of several cancers, including breast cancer (BC), has emerged. This study aims to explore for the first time the possible association between AIRE gene rs2075876 G>A variant and BC risk in a sample of the Middle East population.

Method

In this case‐control study, we genotyped AIRE rs2075876 G>A variant in 200 unrelated patients with BC and 340 cancer‐free controls using a real‐time allelic discrimination polymerase chain reaction. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were applied to estimate the strength of association under several genetic models. In silico analysis of AIRE was also executed.

Results

The minor allele (A) frequency of the specified variant accounted for 0.28 in the controls. G/G homozygote was significantly more frequent among patients (94%) compared to controls (66%) (P < .001). After adjusting confounding variables, individuals with A allele conferred protection against developing BC under allelic model (OR = 0.33, 95% CI = 0.20‐0.55), recessive model (OR = 0.25, 95% CI = 0.10‐0.60), dominant model (OR = 0.12, 95% CI = 0.05‐0.29), and homozygote comparison (OR = 0.20, 95% CI = 0.08‐0.50). In silico analysis revealed AIRE enrichment in several cancer‐related pathways. Kaplan‐Meier plotter for the cancer databases showed association of AIRE expression with prognosis in triple‐negative BC (HR = 2.44, 95% CI = 1.44‐4.15, log‐rank P‐value < .001).

Conclusion

The AIRE rs2075876 G>A variant showed association with BC risk in the study population. Further large‐scale replication studies in different ethnicity are warranted to confirm the findings.
Effects of Atypical Antipsychotics on Neuroactive Vitamins in Patients With Schizophrenia
Authors: Yuan Tengfei , Wang Shaoting , Le Juan , Li Yan
Published: May 2020

In schizophrenia, neuroactive vitamins A/D/E play vital neuroprotective roles in its pathophysiological processes. During medical treatment, atypical antipsychotics, including aripiprazole, amisulpride, olanzapine, and paliperidone, were widely used at present. However, their impact on vitamin metabolism in vivo remained unclear. In this study, we conducted a case‐control research to investigate the impacts of antipsychotics on vitamin metabolism. Schizophrenic patients (n = 163), who were divided into 5 groups (aripiprazole group, amisulpride group, olanzapine group, paliperidone group, nonmedication group) according to their different medication patterns, and healthy controls (n = 75) were involved. The concentrations of vitamin A/D/E and antipsychotics were measured using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry methods. Compared with healthy controls, significantly lower vitamin D and E concentrations were found in the nonmedication group after covariance analysis adjusting for age, sex, albumin, bilirubin, triglyceride, and cholesterol. We found that aripiprazole could affect vitamin D concentrations in vivo, and a positive correlation between aripiprazole concentrations and vitamin D concentrations (r = 0.319, P = 0.025) was observed in aripiprazole group. Such result revealed the very first observation for the influence of atypical antipsychotics medication toward vitamin status in vivo. Our study showed that low concentrations of vitamin D and E in vivo could be associated with schizophrenia, suggesting that hypovitaminosis may lead to a vulnerability to schizophrenia. More importantly, aripiprazole may potentially benefit the patients through improving their vitamin D status in vivo.
Synthesis of diverse novel compounds with anticipated antitumor activities starting with biphenyl chalcone
Authors: Ismail Mahmoud F. , El‐sayed Amira A.
Published: May 2020

The chalcone as (E)‐1‐([1,1′‐biphenyl]‐4‐yl)‐3‐(3,4‐dimethoxyphenyl)prop‐2‐en‐1‐one (3) was reacted with various active methylene compounds via Michael addition reaction under different conditions. In one hand, chalcone 3 reacted with isatin and glycine in one pot reaction via 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition reaction. On the other hand, chalcone 3 was also reacted with different N‐nucleophiles via direct addition on the carbonyl group to award cyclic and/or acyclic products. Meanwhile, the reaction of chalcone 3 with S‐benzylthiuronium chloride afforded the thio‐Michael addition product. Chalcone 3 and 10 novel synthesized compounds were screened against two cell lines (HepG2 and MCF‐7). Among of them, thiosemicarbazone 16, oxime 14 and pyrimidine‐2(1H)‐thione 19 derivatives revealed an excellent activity against both cell lines (IC50 values = 6.79‐12.91 μM), whereas thiosemicarbazone 16 (6.79 ± 0.5 and 7.58 ± 0.6 μM) showed the highest activity.
Can custom 3D printed implants successfully reconstruct massive acetabular defects? A 3D‐CT assessment
Authors: Durand‐Hill Matthieu , Henckel Johann , Di Laura Anna , Hart Alister J.
Published: May 2020

We report on the accuracy, measured with three‐dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT) postoperatively, in positioning custom 3D printed titanium components in patients with large acetabular defects. Twenty patients (13 females and 7 males) received custom‐made acetabular implants between 2016 and 2018; the mean age was 66 years (SD = 11.6) and their mean body mass index was 28 (SD = 6.1). The median time to follow up was 25.5 months, range: 12 to 40 months. We describe a comparison method that uses the 3D models of CT‐generated preoperative plans and the postoperative CT scans to quantify the discrepancy between planned and achieved component positions. Our primary outcome measures were the 3D‐CT‐measured difference between planned and achieved a component position in six degrees of freedom: center of rotation (CoR), component rotation, inclination (INC), and version (VER) of the cup. Our secondary outcome measures were: Oxford hip score, walking status, and complication rate. All components (100%) were positioned within 10 mm of planned CoR (in the three planes). Eighteen (95%) components were not rotated by more than 10° compared to the plan. Eleven (58%) components were positioned within 5° of planned cup angle (INC and VER). To date one complication has occurred, a periprosthetic fracture. This is the largest study in which postoperative 3D‐CT measurements and clinical outcomes of custom‐made acetabular components have been assessed. Accurate pre‐op planning and the adoption of custom 3D printed implants show promising results in complex hip revision surgery.
Anti‐C1GALT1 Autoantibody Is a Novel Prognostic Biomarker for Patients With Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Lin Mei‐Chun , Huang Min‐Chuan , Lou Pei‐Jen
Published: May 2020

Objectives

The objective of this study is to determine the value of the anti‐ glycoprotein‐N‐acetylgalactosamine 3‐beta‐galactosyltransferase 1 (C1GALT1) autoantibody as a biomarker for distant metastasis and good response to immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

Methods

In this retrospective study with a median follow‐up of 55.7 months, 186 HNSCC patients were enrolled between July 2013 and August 2014. Data were analyzed between April 2018 and November 2019. Titers of autoantibody against the C1GALT1 peptide were measured by ELISA. Student t test, Kaplan–Meier analysis, and univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard models were used to evaluate the association of anti‐C1GALT1 autoantibody titer with clinicopathologic factors, survival, and response to immunotherapy.

Results

Our results showed that high levels of the anti‐C1GALT1 autoantibody is an independent marker for distant metastasis and poor disease‐specific survivals in HNSCC patients. In 19 recurrent or metastatic (R/M) HNSCC patients who have received nivolumab or pembrolizumab, higher autoantibody titers are associated with a better treatment response.

Conclusion

We propose that the anti‐C1GALT1 autoantibody can serve as a novel biomarker for distant metastasis in HNSCC patients. It is also useful in individualized medicine for R/M HNSCC patients who are considering immunotherapy.

Level of Evidence

IV Laryngoscope, 131:E196–E202, 2021
Correlation between physical measurements and observer evaluations of image quality in digital chest radiography
Authors: Yalcin Asena , Olgar Turan , Sancak Tanzer , Atac Gokce Kaan , Akyar Serdar
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The aim of this paper was to investigate the relationship between the physical and subjective (observer) image quality metrics in digital chest radiography.

Methods

Five digital radiography systems, four with indirect flat panel detector and one with storage phosphor‐based computed radiography system, were used in the study. The physical image quality assessments were carried out using effective detective quantum efficiency (eDQE) metric and subjective performance of the digital radiography systems was evaluated in terms of inverse image quality figure (IQFinv) derived from the contrast‐detail (CD) diagrams using CDRAD 2.0 phantom and CDRAD phantom analyzer software. All measurements were performed for different tube voltages (70, 81, 90, 102, 110, and 125 kVp) and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) phantom thicknesses. An anthropomorphic chest phantom and visual grading analysis (VGA) technique based on European image quality criteria for chest radiography were used for clinical image quality evaluation.

Results

The Spearman correlation coefficients were calculated for the investigation of the correlation between physical image quality and clinical image quality. The results showed strong positive correlation between the physical and clinical image quality findings. The minimum correlation coefficient was 0.91 (p < 0.011) for IQFinv vs VGA scores and 0.92 (p < 0.009) for IeDQE vs VGA scores.

Conclusions

Our results confirm that clinical image quality can be predicted with both physical assessments and contrast‐detail detectability studies.
Nurses as educators in the comprehensive heart failure care programme—Are we ready for it?
Authors: Krówczyńska Dorota , Jankowska‐Polańska Beata
Published: May 2020

Aim

To assess education frequency and nurses' comfort when educating patients hospitalized in different hospital units to prepare them for self‐care.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey. The study included nurses working in units where HF patients were hospitalized.

Results

The average score for comfort of education was 5.43 (between “slightly comfortable” and “very comfortable”). The most comfortable topics were “Daily weight monitoring” (5.81 ± 1.25), “Signs/symptoms of worsening condition” (5.77 ± 1.19) and “Fluid restriction” (5.76 ± 1.23). The respondents felt least comfortable when teaching about “Medications” (5.06 ± 1.35) and “Low‐sodium diet” (5.31 ± 1.42). The mean score obtained for education frequency was 5.21 (SD 2.51). The nurses most frequently educated their patients on such topics as “Daily weight monitoring” (5.82), “Signs/symptoms of worsening condition” (5.9) and “Fluid restriction” (5.92).

Conclusions

Polish nurses are not ready to perform comprehensive HF care tasks without preparation.
Radiological pseudoprogression post‐radiotherapy in a child with pineal germ cell tumour
Authors: Alves Inês , Bodi Istvan , Jarosz Jozef , Mandeville Henry , Zebian Bassel , Carceller Fernando
Published: May 2020

Little is known about pseudoprogression in brain tumours other than gliomas. A 9‐year‐old male child with a pineal teratoma/germinoma underwent surgical resection followed by adjuvant chemo‐radiotherapy. The magnetic resonance imaging scan 4 months post‐radiotherapy showed a contrast‐enhancing lesion within the surgical cavity suspicious of recurrence. These radiological findings subsequently resolved without any specific intervention. The child continues in remission 2 years post‐treatment. This case illustrates the occurrence of pseudoprogression post‐radiotherapy in intracranial GCT and highlights an unmet need for greater implementation of functional imaging techniques in paediatric neuro‐oncology to avoid undue discontinuation of effective treatments or inappropriate enrolment in clinical trials.
Essential work of fracture analysis for surface modified carbon fiber/polypropylene composites with different interfacial adhesion
Authors: Tian Huafeng , Yao Yuanyuan , Wang Chaoyang , Jv Rui , Ge Xiang , Xiang Aimin
Published: May 2020

The fracture behavior of polypropylene/carbon fiber composites with different interfacial adhesion was evaluated using the essential work of fracture method. All samples exhibited ductile fracture characteristics, while the specific essential fracture work, we, was obviously decreased by carbon fiber incorporation, indicating the impaired ductility and toughness for polypropylene. The cracks were easily formed and expanded at the fiber‐matrix interface under external force for polypropylene/original carbon fiber composites, since the weak interfacial adhesion between the fiber and matrix could not prevent the generation of new crack. Introduction of compatibilizer as well as surface modification of fibers effectively improved the interfacial adhesion between the fiber and matrix, so that the value of we increased and the elastic deformation of the composites became more prominent. Therefore, the improvement of interfacial adhesion between the fiber and matrix influenced both elastic and plastic deformation of the composites.
Wiggling Skyrmions Confined in a Linear Potential Well
Authors: Zhao Rongzhi , Hu Chenglong , Ji Lianze , Chen Wenchao , Zhang Xuefeng
Published: May 2020

The motion of skyrmions in confined geometry has promising potential for the next generation spintronics in information processing. However, the existence of the edge can affect the trajectory of motion by confining skyrmions to a potential well. Herein, a wiggling behavior of skyrmions in a magnetic nanodot with the average velocity of 6 m s−1 under zero magnetic field is presented, and the coupling of motion and breathing of skyrmions in the absence of spin‐transfer‐torque is found. Such a motion of skyrmions can physically originate from the magnetostatic interaction between the edge and the skyrmions and can also be manipulated by controlling the ratio of Ds/D0 (<0.3) under perpendicular static magnetic field, where Ds and D0 are skyrmions diameter and nanodots diameter, respectively.
An evaluation of tropical waves and wave forcing of the QBO in the QBOi models
Authors: Holt Laura A. , Lott François , Garcia Rolando R. , Kiladis George N. , Cheng Yuan‐Ming , Anstey James A. , Braesicke Peter , Bushell Andrew C. , Butchart Neal , Cagnazzo Chiara , Chen Chih‐Chieh , Chun Hye‐Yeong , Kawatani Yoshio , Kerzenmacher Tobias , Kim Young‐Ha , McLandress Charles , Naoe Hiroaki , Osprey Scott , Richter Jadwiga H. , Scaife Adam A. , Scinocca John , Serva Federico , Versick Stefan , Watanabe Shingo , Yoshida Kohei , Yukimoto Seiji
Published: May 2020

We analyze the stratospheric waves in models participating in phase 1 of the Stratosphere–troposphere Processes And their Role in Climate (SPARC) Quasi‐Biennial Oscillation initiative (QBOi). All models have robust Kelvin and mixed Rossby‐gravity wave modes in winds and temperatures at 50 hPa and represent them better than most of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5) models. There is still some spread among the models, especially concerning the mixed Rossby‐gravity waves. We attribute the variability in equatorial waves among the QBOi models in part to the varying horizontal and vertical resolutions, to systematic biases in zonal winds, and to the considerable variability in convectively coupled waves in the troposphere among the models: only roughly half of the QBOi models have realistic convectively coupled Kelvin waves and only a few models have convectively coupled mixed Rossby‐gravity waves. The models with stronger convectively coupled waves tend to produce larger zonal mean forcing due to resolved waves in the QBO region. Finally we evaluate the Eliassen–Palm (EP) flux and EP flux divergence of the resolved waves in the QBOi models. We find that there is a large spread in the forcing from resolved waves in the QBO region, and the resolved wave forcing has a robust correlation with model vertical resolution.
Characterizing Adiabaticity in Quantum Many‐Body Systems at Finite Temperature
Authors: Skelt Amy H. , D'Amico Irene
Published: May 2020

The quantum adiabatic theorem is fundamental to time‐dependent quantum systems, but being able to characterize quantitatively an adiabatic evolution in many‐body systems can be a challenge. This work demonstrates that the use of appropriate state and particle‐density metrics is a viable method to quantitatively determine the degree of adiabaticity in the dynamic of a quantum many‐body system. The method applies also to systems at finite temperature, which is important for quantum technologies and quantum thermodynamics related protocols. The importance of accounting for memory effects is discussed via comparison to results obtained by extending the quantum adiabatic criterion to finite temperatures: it is shown that this may produce false readings being quasi‐Markovian by construction. As the proposed method makes it possible to characterize the degree of adiabatic evolution by tracking only the system local particle densities, it is potentially applicable to both theoretical calculations of very large many‐body systems and to experiments.
Ion Transport and Reordering in a 2D Trap Array
Authors: Wan Yong , Jördens Robert , Erickson Stephen D. , Wu Jenny J. , Bowler Ryan , Tan Ting Rei , Hou Pan‐Yu , Wineland David J. , Wilson Andrew C. , Leibfried Dietrich
Published: May 2020

Scaling quantum information processors is a challenging task, requiring manipulation of a large number of qubits with high fidelity and a high degree of connectivity. For trapped ions, this can be realized in a 2D array of interconnected traps in which ions are separated, transported, and recombined to carry out quantum operations on small subsets of ions. Here, functionality of a junction connecting orthogonal linear segments in a 2D trap array to reorder a two‐ion crystal is demonstrated. The secular motion of the ions experiences low energy gain and the internal qubit levels maintain coherence during the reordering process, therefore demonstrating a promising method for providing all‐to‐all connectivity in a large‐scale, 2D or 3D trapped‐ion quantum information processor.
Mass spectrometric analysis of 7‐oxygenated androst‐5‐ene structures. Influence in trimethylsilyl derivative formation
Authors: Martinez‐Brito Dayamin , de la Torre Xavier , Parr Maria Kristina , Botrè Francesco
Published: May 2020

Rationale

Several authors have described the generation of androsta‐3,5‐diene‐7‐one structures from androst‐5‐ene‐3,7‐dione or androst‐5‐ene‐3β‐ol‐7‐one under acidic conditions and/or at high temperatures. The goal of this study was to observe and to describe the results obtained after the chromatographic analysis of the trimethylsilyl derivatives of reference materials of 7‐oxo‐DHEA, 7α‐hydroxy‐DHEA, 7β‐hydroxy‐DHEA, and androsta‐3,5‐diene‐7,17‐dione known as arimistane.

Methods

The purity of the analyte reference materials was verified by liquid chromatography/quadrupole mass spectrometry. The trimethylsilyl derivatives obtained using several mixtures with MSTFA (N‐methyl‐N‐trimethylsilyl trifluoroacetamide) in comparison with solely MSTFA were analyzed by gas chromatography coupled to a time‐of‐flight detector equipped with a multimode inlet or to a simple quadrupole detector with a split/splitless inlet.

Results

The study showed that the formation of arimistane from 7‐oxo‐DHEA occurs using common derivatization reagents used for the analyses by gas chromatography (GC). In addition, the formation of the enolized TMS derivative of 7‐oxo‐DHEA was observed in considerable amount when it was reacted with MSTFA. The analysis of 7α‐hydroxy‐DHEA resulted in the detection of ~1% of arimistane. The formation of unexpected artifacts from derivatization is influenced by the reagent itself, the reaction temperature, the inlet used and its configuration.

Conclusions

The derivatization reagent, instrumental conditions (inlet), as well as the chemical structures of the analytes present in the matrix, can influence the results. So, before describing a new feature as a potential “new” metabolite, special caution must be taken since we could actually be dealing with an artifact.
ESC 2019 guidelines for the diagnosis and management of chronic coronary syndromes
Authors: Saraste Antti , Knuuti Juhani
Published: May 2020

The European Society of Cardiology (ESC) has recently published new guidelines on the diagnosis and management of chronic coronary syndromes (CCS). Due to variable symptoms, objective tests are often necessary to confirm the diagnosis, exclude alternative diagnoses, and assess the severity of underlying disease. This review provides a summary of the main diagnostic strategies listed in the guidelines for evaluation of patients suspected of having obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD). Based on data from contemporary cohorts of patients referred for diagnostic testing, the pre-test probabilities of obstructive CAD based on age, sex, and symptoms have been adjusted substantially downward compared with the previous guidelines. Further, a new concept of “clinical likelihood of CAD” was introduced accounting for the impact of various risk factors and modifiers on the pre-test probability. Noninvasive functional imaging for myocardial ischemia, coronary computed tomography angiography, or invasive coronary angiography combined with functional evaluation is recommended as the initial strategy to diagnose CAD in symptomatic patients, unless obstructive CAD can be excluded by clinical assessment alone. When available, imaging tests are recommended as noninvasive modalities instead of exercise electrocardiograms.
Haben radikalisierte Personen Zugang zu psychotherapeutischer Unterstützung?
Authors: Rau Thea , Heimgartner Anna , Fegert Jörg M. , Allroggen Marc
Published: May 2020

Hintergrund

Im Zusammenhang mit extremistischer Gewalt wird häufig die Rolle von Psychotherapeuten in der Prävention und Früherkennung von Radikalisierung diskutiert, insbesondere um ungünstige Entwicklungsverläufe bei jungen Menschen zu verhindern. Bislang fehlen Studien, die radikalisierte Personen nach ihren Kontakten mit Psychotherapeuten befragen. Fragestellung der Studie war daher, ob radikalisierte Personen Zugang zu psychotherapeutischer Unterstützung oder zu anderen Hilfesystemen haben, und ob es dafür in ihrem Leben Anknüpfungspunkte gegeben hat bzw. hätte.

Material und Methode

Zur Beantwortung der Frage wurden mit 7 jungen Erwachsenen, die von Fachkräften als „radikalisiert“ eingeschätzt wurden, leitfadengestützte Interviews durchgeführt. Diese wurden im Anschluss inhaltsanalytisch ausgewertet.

Ergebnisse

Es zeigt sich, dass die Befragten bislang kaum bis gar keinen Kontakt mit Psychotherapeuten hatten. Gleichzeitig fanden sich bei den Probanden hohe Belastungen durch ungünstige und größtenteils traumatische Kindheitserlebnisse, bei denen eine therapeutische Intervention wahrscheinlich hilfreich gewesen wäre. Aufseiten der Probanden wird der eigene Hilfebedarf erkannt. Es besteht allerdings große Skepsis gegenüber therapeutischen Hilfen.

Schlussfolgerung

Es wird diskutiert, wie radikalisierte Personen einen besseren Zugang zu psychotherapeutischen Hilfen erhalten könnten, beispielsweise durch eine bessere Vernetzung und Zuweisungspraxis der verschiedenen Hilfesysteme. Zudem wird diskutiert, wie Betroffene mehr Vertrauen in das Hilfesystem gewinnen können. Die Ergebnisse dieser Pilotstudie basieren auf einer kleinen Stichprobe, weshalb weitere Arbeiten zum Thema sich trotz des erheblich limitierten Zugangs zu entsprechenden Probanden anschließen sollten.
A Geometric Heat-Flow Theory of Lagrangian Coherent Structures
Authors: Karrasch Daniel , Keller Johannes
Published: May 2020

We consider Lagrangian coherent structures (LCSs) as the boundaries of material subsets whose advective evolution is metastable under weak diffusion. For their detection, we first transform the Eulerian advection–diffusion equation to Lagrangian coordinates, in which it takes the form of a time-dependent diffusion or heat equation. By this coordinate transformation, the reversible effects of advection are separated from the irreversible joint effects of advection and diffusion. In this framework, LCSs express themselves as (boundaries of) metastable sets under the Lagrangian diffusion process. In the case of spatially homogeneous isotropic diffusion, averaging the time-dependent family of Lagrangian diffusion operators yields Froyland’s dynamic Laplacian. In the associated geometric heat equation, the distribution of heat is governed by the dynamically induced intrinsic geometry on the material manifold, to which we refer as thegeometry of mixing. We study and visualize this geometry in detail, and discuss connections between geometric features and LCSs viewed asdiffusion barriersin two numerical examples. Our approach facilitates the discovery of connections between some prominent methods for coherent structure detection: the dynamic isoperimetry methodology, the variational geometric approaches to elliptic LCSs, a class of graph Laplacian-based methods and the effective diffusivity framework used in physical oceanography.
Establishment and validation of a model to determine the progression risk of low grade intraepithelial neoplasia
Authors: Chen Yuqian , Dang Yini , Sang Huaiming , Wang Xiaoyong , Chen Meihong , Lu Daiwei , Zhang Guoxin
Published: May 2020

Objective

To establish and validate a model to determine the progression risk of gastric low-grade intraepithelial neoplasia (LGIN).

Methods

A total of 705 patients with gastric LGIN at the endoscopy center of Jiangsu Provincial People's Hospital during January 2010 and August 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. Basic clinical and pathological information were recorded. According to the time sequence of the initial examination, the first 605 patients were enrolled in the derivation group, and the remaining 100 patients were used in the validation group. SPSS 19 software was used as statistical analysis to determine independent risk factors for progression of LGIN of the stomach and to establish a risk model. The ROC was used to verify the application value of the predictive model.

Results

Univariate and multivariate analysis suggested that sex, multiple location, congestion, ulceration and form were independent risk factors for prolonged or advanced progression in patients with LGIN. Based on this, a predictive model is constructed: P = ex/(1 + ex) X = − 10.399 + 0.922 × Sex + 1.934 × Multiple Location + 1.382 × Congestion + 0.797 × Ulceration + 0.525 × Form. The higher of the P value means the higher risk of progression. The AUC of the derivation group and validation group were 0.784 and 0.766, respectively.

Conclusion

Sex, multi-site, hyperemia, ulcer and morphology are independent risk factors for the prolongation or progression of patients with gastric LGIN. These factors are objective and easy to obtain data. Based on this, a predictive model is constructed, which can be used in management of patients. The model can be used to identify high-risk groups in patients with LGIN that may progress to gastric cancer. Strengthening follow-up or endoscopic treatment to improve the detection rate of early cancer or reduce the incidence of gastric cancer can provide a reliable basis for the treatment of LGIN.