bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐dose, short‐term corticosteroids for ARDS caused by COVID‐19: a case series
Authors: So Clara , Ro Shosei , Murakami Manabu , Imai Ryosuke , Jinta Torahiko
Published: June 2020

We report a case series of seven mechanically ventilated patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) caused by coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) who received early treatment with high‐dose, short‐term systemic corticosteroids to prevent cytokine overproduction. Of the seven patients, four were male and median age was 69 years. They were intubated within seven days after admission when their respiratory status rapidly worsened. At that time, we administered 1000 or 500 mg/day for three days of methylprednisolone intravenously, followed by 1 mg/kg and tapered off. The median duration for the total administration of corticosteroids was 13 days. This high‐dose, short‐term corticosteroid therapy enabled extubation of the patients within seven days. Many questions on the clinical management of COVID‐19 remain unanswered, and data on corticosteroid therapy as a choice of treatment are mixed. We present the clinical course of our cases, review the previous evidence, and discuss management.
A Short and Efficient Enantioselective Synthesis of (+)‐(2S,3S,5S)‐epi‐Muscarine
Authors: Gehlawat Anju , Prakash Ranjana , Kumar Pandey Satyendra
Published: June 2020

A short, efficient and novel enantioselective general approach for the synthesis of muscarine alkaloid and its application to the asymmetric synthesis of epi‐muscarine from readily available (R)‐PMB glycidyl ether as starting material is described. Key transformations include Sharpless asymmetric dihydroxylation (AD), regioselective epoxide ring opening and intramolecular SN2 cyclization.
Post‐Treatment of Mesoporous Scaffolds for Enhanced Photovoltage of Triple‐Mesoscopic Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Sheng Yusong , Ji Wenxian , Chu Yanmeng , Ming Yue , Mei Anyi , Hu Yue , Rong Yaoguang , Han Hongwei
Published: June 2020

Triple‐mesoscopic perovskite solar cells (PSCs) based on TiO2/ZrO2/carbon architecture have attracted much attention due to their excellent long‐term stability and screen‐printing technique‐based fabrication process. However, the relatively low open‐circuit voltage (VOC) limits the further improvement of power conversion efficiency (PCE) for triple‐mesoscopic PSCs. Herein, 2‐phenyl‐5‐benzimidazole sulfonate‐Na to post‐treat the triple‐mesoscopic structured scaffold is introduced. The conduction band of the mesoporous TiO2 layer (electron transport layer [ETL]) is significantly shifted up from −4.22 to −4.11 eV, which favors the electron transfer from the perovskite absorber to the ETL. At the same time, the recombination at the interface of ETL/perovskite is effectively suppressed. Correspondingly, the VOC and fill factor (FF) of the devices are enhanced without sacrificing the photocurrent density (JSC). With optimal post‐treatment conditions, the champion device delivers a VOC of 1.02 V and an FF of 0.70 with JSC of 23.06 mA cm−2, showing an overall PCE of 16.51%. After 1000 h continuous operation at the maximum power point under AM1.5G 1 sun illumination, the devices can maintain 91.7% of the initial efficiency. This simple procedure and significant photovoltage enhancement render this method promising for fabricating efficient PSCs based on mesoporous charge transport layers.
Effect of Secondary Aerosol Cooling on the Characteristics of Carbides in M42 High‐Speed Steel Produced by the Electroslag Remelting Withdrawal Process
Authors: Li Wanming , Jiao Shichao , Tong Wenjie , Zang Ximin , Wang Gang , Jiang Zhouhua , Li Huabing
Published: June 2020

The characteristics of carbides, such as type, size, and distribution, are important factors that affect the quality of high‐speed steel. To improve the characteristics of carbides produced by the electroslag remelting (ESR) process, an innovative process of electroslag remelting withdrawal with secondary aerosol cooling (ESRW–SAC) is proposed. The structure of the molten bath is obtained using tungsten powder detection, and the characteristics of carbides are statistically quantified by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and the Image‐Pro Plus quantitative analysis software. The 3D carbide morphologies and carbides types are determined by an electrolysis device and SEM–energy‐dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The results show that, compared with the traditional process, without SAC, the structure of the molten metal bath becomes shallower and flatter with the ESRW–SAC process. Under the influence of SAC, the network spacing and lamellar thickness of carbides considerably decrease, the phase area of carbides increases, and the distribution of carbides becomes more uniform. After the ESRW–SAC process, M2C and M6C carbides are still dominant; however, the morphology of M2C carbides changes from a lamellar to a curved short‐rod form.
Highly efficient chloramphenicol degradation by UV and UV/H2O2 processes based on LED light source
Authors: Wu Mengyi , Tang Yulin , Liu Qianhong , Tan Zhenjiao , Wang Mu , Xu Bin , Xia Shengji , Mao Shun , Gao Naiyun
Published: May 2020

In this study, UV‐LED was employed as a novel light source to investigate the degradation of a representative antibiotic compound, chloramphenicol (CAP), in the absence or presence of H2O2. The UV‐LED irradiation showed a higher capability for degradation of CAP than conventional UV‐Hg vapor lamps. Effects of the initial CAP concentration, UV wavelength, and light intensity on the degradation of CAP by UV‐LED were evaluated. Introduction of H2O2 evidently enhanced the degradation efficiency of CAP due to the production of reactive hydroxyl radicals. Results showed that the UV‐LED/H2O2 removed CAP by up to 95% within 60 min at pH 5.0, which was twice as that achieved by the UV‐LED alone. The degradation products were identified to propose plausible degradation pathways. Moreover, the formation potentials of typical carbonaceous disinfection by‐products (C‐DBPs) and nitrogenous disinfection by‐products (N‐DBPs) were assessed for the CAP polluted water treated by the UV‐LED alone and UV‐LED/H2O2 processes. Results indicate unintended formation of certain DBPs, thereby highlighting the importance of health risk assessments before practical application. This study opens a new avenue for developing environment‐friendly and high‐performance UV‐LED photocatalytic reactors for abatement of CAP pollution in water.

Practitioner points

UV‐LED bore higher capability to degrade CAP than low‐pressure Hg lamp.

The optimal performance to degrade CAP can be achieved at the UV wavelength of 280 nm.

The degradation efficiency under UV‐LED/H2O2 process was double of that under UV‐LED process.

TCM, DCAN, and TCNM formation were higher under the existence of UV‐LED radiation.

The addition of H2O2 had greater influence on the formation of DCAcAm than the introduction of UV‐LED.
Migräne im Kindes- und Jugendalter – Ausblick auf innovative Behandlungsansätze im Rahmen multimodaler Therapiekonzepte
Authors: Bonfert Michaela Veronika , Börner Corinna , Gerstl Lucia , Hannibal Iris , Mathonia Nina , Huß Kristina , Rahmsdorf Birte , Kainz Christina , Klose Birgit , Koenig Helene , Urban Giada , Schandelmaier Paul , Renner Tabea , Albers Lucia , Krieg Sandro Manuel , Sollmann Nico , Heinen Florian , Landgraf Mirjam Natascha
Published: June 2020

Die Migräne ist auch im Kindes- und Jugendalter ein häufiges, aber in klinischer Versorgung und Wissenschaft oft unterrepräsentiertes Krankheitsbild. Gerade im Kindes- und Jugendalter bestehen relevante Einschränkungen der Lebensqualität durch das (häufige) Schmerzerfahren. Bedingt durch die entwicklungsspezifisch hohe Vulnerabilität des adoleszenten Gehirns besteht ein hohes Chronifizierungs- und Persistenzrisiko bis ins Erwachsenenalter hinein. In diesem Beitrag werden die Bestandteile eines patientenzentrierten, multimodalen Therapiekonzepts dargestellt. Darüber hinaus werden die aktuellsten Erkenntnisse zu den pathophysiologischen Grundlagen der Migräneerkrankung beleuchtet, nach denen Migräne durch einen sich phasenweise verändernden Funktionszustand des Gehirns entsteht (Stichwort: „migraine is a brain state“). Auch periphere Komponenten wie Muskelschmerzen, -verspannungen und -triggerpunkte spielen eine wichtige Rolle. Vor diesem Hintergrund werden nichtpharmakologische innovative Therapieansätze vorgestellt, die auf dem Prinzip der Neuromodulation beruhen, mit Fokus auf der repetitiven peripheren Magnetstimulation.
Bildgebende Diagnostik patellofemoraler Störungen
Authors:   AGA Komitee Knie-Patellofemoral, Kappel P. , Liebensteiner M.
Published: May 2020

Hintergrund

Patellofemorale Störungen sind häufig. Zur diagnostischen Abklärung gehört neben einer spezifischen Anamnese und detaillierten körperlichen Untersuchung auch die bildgebende Diagnostik. Das Ziel dieses Artikels ist es, die verschiedenen bildgebenden Techniken darzustellen, die zur Diagnostik patellofemoraler Störungen angewandt werden.

Material und Methoden

Es erfolgte eine Suche der in der Literatur beschriebenen bildgebenden Techniken sowie der darin ersichtlichen Befunde bei patellofemoralen Störungen.

Ergebnisse

Die Bildgebung des Patellofemoralgelenks muss sowohl eine Beurteilung von Traumafolgen bzw. einer Degeneration des Gelenks als auch eine Analyse der für die patellofemorale Instabilität relevanten anatomischen Risikofaktoren ermöglichen. Die Basisdiagnostik hierfür stellt das Röntgen in 3 Ebenen dar. Eine Ganzbeinstandaufnahme ermöglicht die Detektion von Achsfehlstellungen. Der Goldstandard zur Bestimmung von Torsionsfehlern und dem TT-TG–Abstand (Distanz zwischen der Tuberositas tibiae und der Trochleagrube) ist die Computertomographie (CT). Die Magnetresonanztomographie (MRT) ermöglicht eine dreidimensionale Darstellung der Weichteilstrukturen wie dem medialen patellofemoralen Ligament (MPFL) sowie eine Beurteilung der Trochleamorphologie. Die SPECT-CT („single photon emission computed tomography“) zur Darstellung des Knochenstoffwechsels bleibt speziellen Fragestellungen vorbehalten.

Diskussion

Die bildgebende Diagnostik patellofemoraler Störungen ist multimodal. Entsprechend der Fragestellung reicht die Diagnostik von der alleinigen Basisdiagnostik bis hin zu innovativen Untersuchungstechniken wie der SPECT-CT.
CSG: A new stochastic gradient method for the efficient solution of structural optimization problems with infinitely many states
Authors: Pflug Lukas , Bernhardt Niklas , Grieshammer Max , Stingl Michael
Published: May 2020

This paper presents a novel method for the solution of a particular class of structural optimzation problems: the continuous stochastic gradient method (CSG). In the simplest case, we assume that the objective function is given as an integral of a desired property over a continuous parameter set. The application of a quadrature rule for the approximation of the integral can give rise to artificial and undesired local minima. However, the CSG method does not rely on an approximation of the integral, instead utilizing gradient approximations from previous iterations in an optimal way. Although the CSG method does not require more than the solution of one state problem (of infinitely many) per optimization iteration, it is possible to prove in a mathematically rigorous way that the function value as well as the full gradient of the objective can be approximated with arbitrary precision in the course of the optimization process. Moreover, numerical experiments for a linear elastic problem with infinitely many load cases are described. For the chosen example, the CSG method proves to be clearly superior compared to the classic stochastic gradient (SG) and the stochastic average gradient (SAG) method.
Initial Operating Room Experience with Digital Variance Angiography in Carbon Dioxide-Assisted Lower Limb Interventions: A Pilot Study
Authors: Gyánó Marcell , Csobay-Novák Csaba , Berczeli Márton , Góg István , Kiss János P. , Szigeti Krisztián , Osváth Szabolcs , Nemes Balázs
Published: May 2020

Purpose

In retrospective clinical studies digital variance angiography (DVA) provided higher contrast-to-noise ratio and better image quality than digital subtraction angiography (DSA). Our aim was to verify the clinical usefulness and benefits of DVA in carbon dioxide (CO2)-assisted lower limb interventions.

Materials and Methods

A workstation running the DVA software was integrated into a Siemens Artis Zee with Pure angiography system, and this new image processing technology was used in four patients (3 male, 1 female, age: 76.2 ± 4.2 years) with peripheral artery disease (PAD, Rutherford 2–3) and impaired renal function (average eGFR 25.5 ± 11.2 ml/min/1.73 m2). The DSA and DVA images of 46 CO2-assisted runs were visually evaluated by five experts in single-image evaluation using a 5-grade Likert scale and in paired comparisons.

Results

DVA images received significantly higher score (3.84 ± 0.10) than DSA images (3.31 ± 0.10, p < 0.001). Raters preferred DVA images in terms of diagnostic value and usefulness for therapeutic decisions in 85.2% and 83.9% of all comparisons, respectively. These benefits were achieved at lower frame rates (1–3 FPS) than usually recommended for CO2 angiography (4–6 FPS). No adverse events were recorded during or after the procedures.

Conclusions

Our initial experience shows that DVA might facilitate the correct diagnostic and therapeutic decisions, and potentially help to reduce radiation exposure in lower limb CO2 angiography. Although the dose management capabilities of DVA have to be validated in further clinical studies, this technology might be a useful new tool in the operating room and contributes to the safety and efficacy of CO2-enhanced endovascular interventions.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Fabrication of optical nanofibre-based cavities using focussed ion-beam milling: a review
Authors: Romagnoli Priscila , Maeda Maki , Ward Jonathan M. , Truong Viet Giang , Nic Chormaic Síle
Published: May 2020

Nanofibre-based optical cavities are particularly useful for quantum optics applications, such as the development of integrated single-photon sources, and for studying fundamental light–matter interactions in cavity quantum electrodynamics (cQED). Although several techniques have been used to produce such cavities, focussed ion beam (FIB) milling is becoming popular; it can be used for the fabrication of complex structures directly in the nanofibre. However, it is challenging to mill insulating materials with highly curved geometries and large aspect ratios, such as silica nanofibres, due to charge accumulation in the material. In this article, we highlight the main features of nanofibres and briefly review cQED with nanofibre-based optical cavities. An overview of the milling process is given with a summary of different FIB milled devices and their applications. Finally, we present our technique to produce nanofibre cavities by FIB milling. To overcome the aforementioned challenges, we present a specially designed base plate with an indium tin oxide (ITO)-coated Si substrate and outline our procedure, which improves stability during milling and increases repeatability.
Capacity changes in German certified chest pain units during COVID-19 outbreak response
Authors: Settelmeier Stephan , Rassaf Tienush , Giannitsis Evangelos , Münzel Thomas , Breuckmann Frank
Published: May 2020

Background

We sought to determine structure and changes in organisation and bed capacities of certified German chest pain units (CPU) in response to the emergency plan set-up as a response to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.

Methods and results

The study was conducted in the form of a standardised telephone interview survey in certified German CPUs. Analyses comprised the overall setting of the CPU, bed capacities, possibilities for ventilation, possible changes in organisation and resources, chest pain patient admittance, overall availability of CPUs and bail-out strategies. The response rate was 91%. Nationwide, CPU bed capacities decreased by 3% in the early phase of COVID-19 pandemic response, exhibiting differences within and between the federal states. Pre-pandemic and pandemic bed capacities stayed below 1 CPU bed per 50,000 inhabitants. 97% of CPUs were affected by internal reorganisation pandemic plans at variable extent. While we observed a decrease of CPU beds within an emergency room (ER) set-up and on intermediate care units (ICU), beds in units being separated from ER and ICU were even increased in numbers.

Conclusions

Certified German CPUs are able to maintain adequate coverage for chest pain patients in COVID-19 pandemic despite structural changes. However, at this time, it appears important to add operating procedures during pandemic outbreaks to the certification criteria of forthcoming guidelines either at the individual CPU level or more centrally steered by the German Cardiac Society or the European Society of Cardiology.
Anomalous visual experience is linked to perceptual uncertainty and visual imagery vividness
Authors: Salge Johannes H. , Pollmann Stefan , Reeder Reshanne R.
Published: May 2020

An imbalance between top-down and bottom-up processing on perception (specifically, over-reliance on top-down processing) can lead to anomalous perception, such as illusions. One factor that may be involved in anomalous perception is visual mental imagery, which is the experience of “seeing” with the mind’s eye. There are vast individual differences in self-reported imagery vividness, and more vivid imagery is linked to a more sensory-like experience. We, therefore, hypothesized that susceptibility to anomalous perception is linked to individual imagery vividness. To investigate this, we adopted a paradigm that is known to elicit the perception of faces in pure visual noise (pareidolia). In four experiments, we explored how imagery vividness contributes to this experience under different response instructions and environments. We found strong evidence that people with more vivid imagery were more likely to see faces in the noise, although removing suggestive instructions weakened this relationship. Analyses from the first two experiments led us to explore confidence as another factor in pareidolia proneness. We, therefore, modulated environment noise and added a confidence rating in a novel design. We found strong evidence that pareidolia proneness is correlated with uncertainty about real percepts. Decreasing perceptual ambiguity abolished the relationship between pareidolia proneness and both imagery vividness and confidence. The results cannot be explained by incidental face-like patterns in the noise, individual variations in response bias, perceptual sensitivity, subjective perceptual thresholds, viewing distance, testing environments, motivation, gender, or prosopagnosia. This indicates a critical role of mental imagery vividness and perceptual uncertainty in anomalous perceptual experience.
Review 1: Lung transplant—from donor selection to graft preparation
Authors: Jin Zhaosheng , Hana Zac , Alam Azeem , Rajalingam Shamala , Abayalingam Mayavan , Wang Zhiping , Ma Daqing
Published: May 2020

For various end-stage lung diseases, lung transplantation remains one of the only viable treatment options. While the demand for lung transplantation has steadily risen over the last few decades, the availability of donor grafts is limited, which have resulted in progressively longer waiting lists. In the early years of lung transplantation, only the ‘ideal’ donor grafts are considered for transplantation. Due to the donor shortages, there is ongoing discussion about the safe use of ‘suboptimal’ grafts to expand the donor pool. In this review, we will discuss the considerations around donor selection, donor-recipient matching, graft preparation and graft optimisation.
Interpreting the results of early skin tests after perioperative anaphylaxis requires special attention: a case report and review of literature
Authors: Orihara Masaki , Takazawa Tomonori , Nagumo Kazuhiro , Sakamoto Shinya , Horiuchi Tatsuo , Saito Shigeru
Published: May 2020

Skin tests are the gold standard for detecting the culprit drug of anaphylaxis, and should ideally be performed after an interval of 4–6 weeks after the reaction to avoid false-negative results. However, when re-operation cannot be delayed and early allergy tests are necessary, special attention is required during subsequent anesthesia, because early skin tests tend to produce false-negative results. This report presents a case of rocuronium-induced anaphylaxis in which early skin tests showed negative results for all the drugs tested. The second anesthesia was safely performed by avoiding all the drugs used for the first anesthesia. Ultimately, skin tests and basophil activation tests (BATs) performed after re-operation demonstrated rocuronium as the drug responsible for anaphylaxis. We recommend performing BATs in addition to skin tests to improve the accuracy of diagnosis of anaphylaxis. In this report, we also discuss interpretation of the results of early skin tests and subsequent selection of drugs for anesthesia. After postponement of surgery due to anaphylaxis, we are often required to perform allergy tests at an early stage if re-operation cannot be delayed. In such cases, skin test results alone should not be used to guide subsequent anesthesia management to avoid recurrent anaphylaxis.
The Role of Mining Intensity and Pre-existing Fracture Attributes on Spatial, Temporal and Magnitude Characteristics of Microseismicity in Longwall Coal Mining
Authors: Cao Wenzhuo , Durucan Sevket , Cai Wu , Shi Ji-Quan , Korre Anna , Jamnikar Sergej , Rošer Janez , Lurka Adam , Siata Robert
Published: May 2020

Knowledge regarding microseismic characteristics associated with longwall coal mining is crucial in evaluating the potential for underground mining hazards. Although microseismicity is induced by mining activities, it still remains uncertain as to what extent mining activities influence the spatial, temporal, and magnitude characteristics of microseismicity. To establish a thorough understanding of the relationship between microseismic characteristics and mining activities, a 27-month long microseismic monitoring campaign was conducted around a highly stressed coal zone and eight producing longwall panels at Coal Mine Velenje in Slovenia. Each microseismic event was classified to be associated with the producing longwall panel that triggered it, and the microseismic response to multi-panel longwall top coal caving face advance was analysed. Monitoring data have shown that locations of microseismic events coincided with stress concentrated regions. It was established that both seismic count and energy-intensive regions associated with coal mining in different panels are spatially connected, but they do not fully overlap with mined-out or stress concentrated areas. In addition, microseismic event counts frequency was found to be well correlated with mining intensity, while seismic energy magnitude and spatial distribution are poorly correlated with the same. Therefore, microseismic characteristics could not be explained solely by the mining-induced stress transfer and mining intensity, but are believed to be dominated by pre-existing natural fractures throughout the coal seam. Analyses of these observations helped the development of a conceptual seismic-generation model, which provides new insights into the causes of microseismicity in coal mining.
Schizotypy and psychopathic tendencies interactively improve misattribution of affect in boys with conduct problems
Authors: Gillespie Steven M. , Kongerslev Mickey T. , Bo Sune , Abu-Akel Ahmad M.
Published: May 2020

Psychopathic tendencies are associated with difficulties in affective theory of mind (ToM), that is, in recognizing others affective mental states. In clinical and non-clinical adult samples, it has been shown that where psychopathic tendencies co-occur with schizophrenia spectrum disorders, the impairing effects of psychopathic tendencies on ToM are attenuated. These effects are yet to be examined in adolescents. We examined if the impairing effect of psychopathic tendencies on affective ToM was attenuated with increasing severity of schizotypal personality disorder (PD) in a sample of 80 incarcerated adolescent boys. We showed that the impairing effect of psychopathic tendencies on the recognition of neutral mental states, but not positive or negative mental states, was evident when the relative severity of schizotypal PD was low. However, with higher scores on both measures, we observed better performance in judging neutral mental states. The preservation of affective ToM in adolescents who show elevations in psychopathic tendencies and schizotypal PD may enable them to manipulate and extort their victims for personal gain. Our results emphasize the need to consider comorbidity in clinical case formulation when working with adolescents with conduct problems and psychopathic tendencies. More broadly, our results also suggest that the pattern of social cognitive abilities associated with co-occurring psychopathology does not always conform to an often-theorized double-dose of deficit hypothesis.
Connection of CVs and impedance spectra of reversible redox systems, as used for the validation of a dynamic electrochemical impedance spectrum measurement system
Authors: Pajkossy Tamás , Mészáros Gábor
Published: May 2020

With the purpose of fast characterization of electrode reactions, a dynamic electrochemical impedance spectrum (dEIS) measurement system has been assembled which permits the continuous collection of audio-frequency impedance spectra while performing cyclic voltammetry measurements with the usual scan rates of up to 200 mV/s. The performance of this system was tested by analyzing the CV curves and impedance spectra taken simultaneously in ferro-/ferricyanide containing aqueous solutions yielding an experimental demonstration of the connection of the semi-integrated reversible voltammograms and the Warburg coefficients.
Understanding Growth and Malnutrition in Baka Pygmy Children
Authors: Funk Stephan M. , Palomo Guerra Belén , Bueno Zamora Amalia , Ickowitz Amy , Poni Nicias Afoumpam , Abdou Mohamadou Aminou , Sibama Yaya Hadam , Penda René , Ros Brull Guillermo , Abossolo Martin , Martín Eva Ávila , Okale Robert , Ze Blaise Ango , Moreno Carrión Ananda , García Sebastián Cristina , Ruiz de Loizaga García Cristina , López-Romero Salazar Francisco , Amazia Hissein , Álvarez Reyes Idoia , Sánchez Expósito Rafaela , Fa Julia E.
Published: May 2020

We determined stunting, wasting, and obesity frequencies in a total 1092 2-to-12 year old Baka Pygmy children from anthropometric and health data gathered in 34 villages in the Djoum-Mintom region in southeastern Cameroon in four health campaigns in 2010 and 2017–9. We compare these to the WHO Child Growth Standards, Amazonian Tsiname growth references for inter-population comparisons and the study population itself. Population-specific growth charts were constructed using GAMLSS modelling. Our results show that Baka children have one of the highest global rates of stunting relative to the WHO child growth standard with 57.8% for 2-to-12 year olds and 64% and 73% for 2-to-4 year old girls and boys, respectively. Frequencies of wasting, overweight, and low BMI were low at 3.4%, 4.6% and 4.3%, respectively, for 2-to-12 year olds. Underweight was at 25.5%, in the upper range for sub-Saharan Africa. Edemas indicated rare severe malnutrition (0.3%). Uncertainties in age estimation had dramatic effects on the reliability of estimated individual z-scores but distributions of z-scores were robust at a population level. In the context of the recent evidence for genetic adaptation of the Pygmies’ small stature to the tropical forest environment we argue that WHO child standards for weight and BMI are applicable. However, standards for height are clearly not adequate for Pygmy people. To achieve UN Sustainable Development Goals, we recommend that Pygmy specific growth standards are developed for the various, genetically differing Pygmy tribes.
Risk interdependency, social norms, and wildfire mitigation: a choice experiment
Authors: Dickinson Katherine L. , Brenkert-Smith Hannah , Madonia Greg , Flores Nicholas E.
Published: June 2020

Wildfire presents a growing threat across the American West. We conducted an online choice experiment in Western Colorado to assess how social interactions affect wildfire mitigation decisions through two distinct pathways: risk interdependency (neighbors’ conditions affect perceived wildfire risk) and social norms (neighbors’ actions affect perceptions of appropriate mitigation choices). In contrast to key observational studies, we find that participants are less likely to choose to mitigate when they have more neighbors with sparse vegetation. This effect operates through the risk interdependency pathway: sparse vegetation on neighboring properties lowers participants’ wildfire risk perceptions and appears to be viewed as a substitute for one’s own mitigation actions. In this context, where neighbors are nameless and faceless, social norms do not counteract this negative effect. To reconcile this experimental result with observational studies, we discuss how both risk interdependency and social norms are influenced by geographical and social contexts and highlight how these insights can inform future research and policy action.
Enhanced Follicular Delivery of Finasteride to Human Scalp Skin Using Heat and Chemical Penetration Enhancers
Authors: Farah H.A. , Brown M.B. , McAuley W.J.
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The aim of this work was to evaluate whether improved topical delivery of finasteride, focussed to the hair follicles of human scalp skin could be achieved with application of short durations of heat and use of specific chemical penetration enhancers.

Methods

Franz cell experiments with human scalp skin were performed with a range of chemical penetration enhancers at 32°C and 45°C to simulate normal and heated conditions. Selected chemical penetration enhancers were taken forward for finite dose Franz cell studies which examined the effect of heat produced by a prototype external heating system that supplied either 20 or 30 min of additional heat over both a 24 h and a 1 h time period.

Results

Short durations of externally applied heat significantly increased finasteride penetration into human scalp skin after 24 h. Analysis of drug distribution in the skin after 1 h and 24 h indicated that both heat and chemical penetration enhancer selection influenced drug delivery to the hair follicles.

Conclusion

The use of short durations of heat in combination with specific chemical penetration enhancers was able to increase the delivery of finasteride to human scalp skin and provide focussed drug delivery to the hair follicles.
Informetrics and the study of science–society communications: a bibliometric scoping review
Authors: Soós Sándor , Kiss Anna
Published: May 2020

Informetrics with its frameworks and methods has long been playing a prominent role in the study of science–society communications. The aim of the present work is an exploratory study of this domain of research, via a scoping review based on enhanced bibliometric methods. The leading research questions concern the cognitive structure of the subject, its position in the broader context of science communication studies and social studies of science, and the role and contributions of informetrics in advancing the field. To overcome the difficulties stemming from the complex definition of the subject, we use an indirect, link-based search strategy for database construction. Our methodological framework consists of a combination of bibliographic coupling (identifying main research streams), various representations of semantic networks (analyzing the cognitive organization of individual research streams), and the systematic synthesis of the results we call quasi content analysis. Beyond uncovering the role and context of informetrics in the study of science–society communications, our results contribute to the conceptual clarifications on such timely issues as the meaning of altmetrics or the notion of social impact in recent informetrics paradigms.
The association between treatment with heparin and survival in patients with Covid-19
Authors: Ayerbe Luis , Risco Carlos , Ayis Salma
Published: May 2020

This study investigates the association between the treatment with heparin and mortality in patients admitted with Covid-19. Routinely recorded, clinical data, up to the 24th of April 2020, from the 2075 patients with Covid-19, admitted in 17 hospitals in Spain between the 1st of March and the 20th of April 2020 were used. The following variables were extracted for this study: age, gender, temperature, and saturation of oxygen on admission, treatment with heparin, hydroxychloroquine, azithromycin, steroids, tocilizumab, a combination of lopinavir with ritonavir, and oseltamivir, together with data on mortality. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to investigate the associations. At the time of collecting the data, 301 patients had died, 1447 had been discharged home from the hospitals, 201 were still admitted, and 126 had been transferred to hospitals not included in the study. Median follow up time was 8 (IQR 5–12) days. Heparin had been used in 1734 patients. Heparin was associated with lower mortality when the model was adjusted for age and gender, with OR (95% CI) 0.55 (0.37–0.82) p = 0.003. This association remained significant when saturation of oxygen < 90%, and temperature > 37 °C were added to de model with OR 0.54 (0.36–0.82) p = 0.003, and also when all the other drugs were included as covariates OR 0.42 (0.26–0.66) p < 0.001. The association between heparin and lower mortality observed in this study can be acknowledged by clinicians in hospitals and in the community. Randomized controlled trials to assess the causal effects of heparin in different therapeutic regimes are required.
Biosynthesis of medicinally important plant metabolites by unusual type III polyketide synthases
Authors: Abe Ikuro
Published: June 2020

Recent research progress on the “second generation” type III polyketide synthases is summarized. This class of enzymes catalyzes unusual condensation chemistries of CoA thioesters to generate various core structures of medicinally important plant secondary metabolites, including the R1–C–R2 scaffold of alkyl quinolones, curcuminoids, as well as the 8-azabicyclo[3.2.1]octane ring of tropane alkaloids. The discovery of this fascinating enzyme superfamily provides excellent opportunities for the manipulation of the enzyme reactions to expand the supply of natural and unnatural molecules for future drug development.
In silico validation of electrocardiographic imaging to reconstruct the endocardial and epicardial repolarization pattern using the equivalent dipole layer source model
Authors: van der Waal Jeanne , Meijborg Veronique , Schuler Steffen , Coronel Ruben , Oostendorp Thom
Published: May 2020

The solution of the inverse problem of electrocardiology allows the reconstruction of the spatial distribution of the electrical activity of the heart from the body surface electrocardiogram (electrocardiographic imaging, ECGI). ECGI using the equivalent dipole layer (EDL) model has shown to be accurate for cardiac activation times. However, validation of this method to determine repolarization times is lacking. In the present study, we determined the accuracy of the EDL model in reconstructing cardiac repolarization times, and assessed the robustness of the method under less ideal conditions (addition of noise and errors in tissue conductivity). A monodomain model was used to determine the transmembrane potentials in three different excitation-repolarization patterns (sinus beat and ventricular ectopic beats) as the gold standard. These were used to calculate the body surface ECGs using a finite element model. The resulting body surface electrograms (ECGs) were used as input for the EDL-based inverse reconstruction of repolarization times. The reconstructed repolarization times correlated well (COR > 0.85) with the gold standard, with almost no decrease in correlation after adding errors in tissue conductivity of the model or noise to the body surface ECG. Therefore, ECGI using the EDL model allows adequate reconstruction of cardiac repolarization times.
Existence of optimal solutions to Lagrange problems for ordinary control systems involving fractional Laplace operators
Authors: Kamocki Rafał
Published: May 2020

In this paper, we study optimal control problems containing ordinary control systems, linear with respect to a control variable, described by fractional Dirichlet and Dirichlet–Neumann Laplace operators and a nonlinear integral performance index. The main result is a theorem on the existence of optimal solutions for such problems. In our approach we use a characterization of a weak lower semicontinuity of integral functionals.
When bibliometrics met mathematics education research: the case of instrumental orchestration
Authors: Drijvers Paul , Grauwin Sebastian , Trouche Luc
Published: May 2020

Thanks to digital technology, methods for finding and analysing research literature have become dramatically more powerful over the last decades. Also, new bibliometric techniques have been developed and applied to the results of such literature search queries. The application of these bibliometric tools to mathematics education research, however, is rare. In this paper, we explore the value of these techniques for mathematics education research through triangulating bibliometrics and expert findings. To do so, we address the case of instrumental orchestration, and want to know how this notion developed over time and was used in research practices. The results show that bibliometric clustering techniques provided a sense-making sketch of the ‘landscape’ of instrumental orchestration research. Triangulating the bibliometric findings with expert interpretations seemed an appropriate method to set up compact ‘identity cards’. In the case of instrumental orchestration, we identified five main clusters in research literature, characterized by the following labels: Managing teaching complexity, Designing living resources, Teaching with technology, Adult learners, and Interacting with computers. The paper ends with some reflections on the potential of bibliometrics in our field and on future research on instrumental orchestration.
The Logic of Aspect-Perception and Perceived Resemblance
Authors: Kemp Gary
Published: June 2020

Does the relation of seeing something as another really differ from seeing the one as resembling the other? Does seeing a cloud as a camel really differ from seeing a resemblance between the cloud and a camel? It is easy to think not, but I claim that the logic of the relation B sees x as resembling y differs markedly from that of B sees x as y and thus that we have two relations, not one. Aspect-perception is nontransitive, nonsymmetric, (presumably) irreflexive and categorical. Perceived or subjective resemblance is weakly or faintly transitive, symmetric, reflexive and graded.
Requirements for Proper Immunosuppressive Regimens to Limit Translational Failure of Cardiac Cell Therapy in Preclinical Large Animal Models
Authors: Demkes Evelyne J. , Rijken Simone , Szymanski Mariusz K. , Hoefer Imo E. , Sluijter Joost P. G. , de Jager Saskia C. A.
Published: May 2020

Various cell-based therapies are currently investigated in an attempt to tackle the high morbidity and mortality associated with heart failure. The need for these therapies to move towards the clinic is pressing. Therefore, preclinical large animal studies that use non-autologous cells are needed to evaluate their potential. However, non-autologous cells are highly immunogenic and trigger immune rejection responses resulting in potential loss of efficacy. To overcome this issue, adequate immunosuppressive regimens are of imminent importance but clear guidelines are currently lacking. In this review, we assess the immunological barriers regarding non-autologous cell transplantation and immune modulation with immunosuppressive drugs. In addition, we provide recommendations with respect to immunosuppressive regimens in preclinical cardiac cell-replacement studies.
Effort, Uncertainty, and the Sense of Agency
Authors: Lukitsch Oliver
Published: May 2020

Orthodox neurocognitive accounts of the bodily sense of agency suggest that the experience of agency arises when action-effects are anticipated accurately. In this paper, I argue that while successful anticipation is crucial for the sense of agency, the role of unsuccessful prediction has been neglected, and that inefficacy and uncertainty are no less central to the sense of agency. I will argue that this is reflected in the phenomenology of agency, which can be characterized both as the experience of (1) efficacy and (2) effort. Specifically, the “sense of efficacy” refers to the perceptual experience of an action unfolding as anticipated. The “sense of effort”, in contrast, arises when an action has an uncertain trajectory, feels difficult, and demands the exertion of control. In this case, actions do not unfold as anticipated and require continuing adaptation if they are to be efficacious. I propose that, taken individually, the experience of efficacy and effort are insufficient for the sense of agency and that these experiences can even disrupt the sense of agency when they occur in isolation from each other. I further argue that a fully-fledged sense of agency depends on the temporally extensive process of prediction error-cancelation. This way, a comparator account can accommodate both the role of accurate prediction and prediction error and thus efficacy and effort.
Why Do We Talk To Ourselves?
Authors: Deamer Felicity
Published: June 2020

Human beings talk to themselves; sometimes out-loud, other times in inner speech. In this paper, I present a resolution to the following dilemma that arises from self-talk. If self-talk exists then either, (i) we know what we are going to say and self-talk serves no communicative purpose, and must serve some other purpose, or (ii) we don’t know what we are going to say, and self-talk does serve a communicative purpose, namely, it is an instance of us communicating with ourselves. Adopting (i) was the strategy taken by Bart Geurts, who claims that the primary purpose of self-talk is to entrain commitments, and is not (primarily) communicative. While accepting that self-talk can usefully play this role, I criticise the view that entraining commitments is self-talk’s fundamental role. I argue that adopting the view that we are self-blind, at least to a significant degree, means that we can accept that self-talk does play a communicative role.
Correlations of obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASIS) grade, specific symptoms of anal incontinence, and measurements by endoanal and transperineal ultrasound
Authors: Ignell Claes , Örnö Ann-Kristin , Stuart Andrea
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The aim of the study was to investigate the association between the initial grade of obstetrical anal sphincter injury (OASIS), and Wexner score parameters, with ultrasonographic findings by endoanal ultrasound (EAUS, golden standard) and transperineal ultrasound (TPUS) 6 months post-partum.

Methods

Fifty-nine women after primary repair of OASIS were included at Helsingborg Hospital, Sweden, 2016–2017. Six months post-partum the women filled in a questionnaire regarding symptoms of anal incontinence by the Wexner score and were scanned with EAUS and TPUS (resting state and contracting state) for classification of the residual defect by a modified Starck score.

Results

Correlations were found between the OASIS grade and residual defects; length (rs = 0.41,P = 0.003), depth (rs = 0.38,P = 0.006) and angle (rs = 0.40,P = 0.004) of the external anal sphincter (EAS) measured with TPUS in resting state. Using EAUS, correlation between OASIS grade and EAS depth (rs = 0.35,P = 0.007) and angle (rs = 0.37,P = 0.004) were similar, but there was no correlation with length (rs = 0.20,P = 0.14). Between incontinence to gas and the angle of the residual defect in the IAS using TPUS in resting state, correlation was moderate (rs = 0.42,P = 0.003). Regarding incontinence to liquid stool, measurements by TPUS in resting state of EAS residual defect depth (rs = 0.46,P < 0.001) and angle (rs = 0.44,P = 0.001) also correlated moderately. Both corresponding correlations using EAUS were weaker.

Conclusion

Defects measured with EAUS and TPUS six months post-partum correlated to initial OASIS grade and symptoms of anal incontinence. Specific symptoms correlated with specific anatomical defects, and TPUS was not an inferior method to EAUS.
Study on the optical quality and strength of glass edges after the grinding and polishing process
Authors: Bukieda Paulina , Lohr Katharina , Meiberg Jens , Weller Bernhard
Published: June 2020

Glass edges result from cutting glass sheets and a further optional finishing. The mechanical interference into the brittle material glass causes flaws and cracks at the edge surface. Those defects have an influence on the strength of the whole glazing. Within the scope of a research project at the Institute of Building Construction from the Technische Universität Dresden, the grinding and polishing process is examined in terms of characteristic visible effects on the glass edge and the edge strength. Thereby a special focus of the research project is the impact of various polishing cup wheels for the chamfer surface of annealed glass. The article presents some basics about the processing steps of glass edges surfaces, introduces the considered grinding and polishing cup wheels and gives an overview of the performed experimental examinations. A microscopic analysis enables a characterisation of typical defects at the surfaces. Furthermore, four-point bending tests are performed to determine the bending tensile stresses at failure. The combination of both methods enables an analysis of the fracture-causing defect before destruction and a correlation between the optical surface quality and the bending tensile stresses. Additionally, the microscopy could be used to support the adjustment of a grinding machine and control reproducible edge qualities. The evaluation shows that a special development of polishing cup wheels for the chamfer can improve the surface quality and consequently increases the edge strength.
Perforated acute abdomen in a patient with COVID-19: an atypical manifestation of the disease
Authors: Corrêa Neto Isaac José Felippe , Viana Kaline Fortes , Silva Milena Braga Soares da , Silva Leandro Mariano da , Oliveira Gustavo de , Cecchini Angelo Rossi da Silva , Rolim Alexander Sá , Robles Laercio
Published: May 2020

Introduction The Coronavirus belongs to a family of RNA viruses that can cause respiratory infection, with the possibility of gastrointestinal manifestations in approximately 5—50% of the cases.

Objective To report a surgical case with a diagnosis of COVID-19 that developed acute perforated abdomen and pneumothorax.

Case report This was an 80-year-old female patient with respiratory symptoms, with dry cough and fever and diffuse abdominal pain with signs of peritonitis. She had leukocytosis, kidney dysfunction and an increase in D-dimer with positive PCR for COVID. Computed tomography of the chest and abdomen showed pneumothorax on the right and extensive pneumoperitoneum.

Conclusion The presentation of COVID-19 with severe pulmonary and abdominal complications requires specialized and emergency treatments, but it has high mortality rates.
Fairness in Allocations of Parental Responsibilities, and the Limits of Law
Authors: Rivlin Ram
Published: June 2020

We love our children. We really do. Yet we also find ourselves happy when they finally fall asleep, or when they go back to school at the end of their summer vacation. We wish we could spend more time with our children, we really do. Yet we also wish to pursue our own projects, both professionally and personally. This ambivalence hints at a basic characteristic of caring for one’s own child, which is known to every person who ever had a child: it involves both a burden and a benefit.1