bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From Chitin to CHILs: First Glucosamine based Ionic Liquids
Authors: Komabayashi Mirai , Nokami Toshiki , Jopp Stefan
Published: October 2020

In this article the authors investigated a new synthetic strategy to convert glucosamine, a natural resource produced from chitin, into several trimethylammonium glucosamine salts. The thermal properties of the new carbohydrate based ionic liquids (CHILs) have been measured to further investigate the structure‐property relationships. The authors furthermore applied their new glucosamine based ionic liquids in a model asymmetric Diels‐Alder reaction.
Regional Brain Growth Trajectories in Fetuses with Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Rollins Caitlin K. , Ortinau Cynthia M. , Stopp Christian , Friedman Kevin G. , Tworetzky Wayne , Gagoski Borjan , Velasco‐Annis Clemente , Afacan Onur , Vasung Lana , Beaute Jeanette I. , Rofeberg Valerie , Estroff Judy A. , Grant P. Ellen , Soul Janet S. , Yang Edward , Wypij David , Gholipour Ali , Warfield Simon K. , Newburger Jane W.
Published: October 2020

Objective

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is associated with abnormal brain development in utero. We applied innovative fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques to determine whether reduced fetal cerebral substrate delivery impacts the brain globally, or in a region‐specific pattern. Our novel design included two control groups, one with and the other without a family history of CHD, to explore the contribution of shared genes and/or fetal environment to brain development.

Methods

From 2014 to 2018, we enrolled 179 pregnant women into 4 groups: “HLHS/TGA” fetuses with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) or transposition of the great arteries (TGA), diagnoses with lowest fetal cerebral substrate delivery; “CHD‐other,” with other CHD diagnoses; “CHD‐related,” healthy with a CHD family history; and “optimal control,” healthy without a family history. Two MRIs were obtained between 18 and 40 weeks gestation. Random effect regression models assessed group differences in brain volumes and relationships to hemodynamic variables.

Results

HLHS/TGA (n = 24), CHD‐other (50), and CHD‐related (34) groups each had generally smaller brain volumes than the optimal controls (71). Compared with CHD‐related, the HLHS/TGA group had smaller subplate (−13.3% [standard error = 4.3%], p < 0.01) and intermediate (−13.7% [4.3%], p < 0.01) zones, with a similar trend in ventricular zone (−7.1% [1.9%], p = 0.07). These volumetric reductions were associated with lower cerebral substrate delivery.

Interpretation

Fetuses with CHD, especially those with lowest cerebral substrate delivery, show a region‐specific pattern of small brain volumes and impaired brain growth before 32 weeks gestation. The brains of fetuses with CHD were more similar to those of CHD‐related than optimal controls, suggesting genetic or environmental factors also contribute. ANN NEUROL 2021;89:143–157
Modifikation der Regioselektivität einer P450‐Monooxygenase ermöglicht die Synthese von Ursodeoxycholsäure durch die 7β‐Hydroxylierung von Lithocholsäure
Authors: Grobe Sascha , Badenhorst Christoffel P. S. , Bayer Thomas , Hamnevik Emil , Wu Shuke , Grathwol Christoph W. , Link Andreas , Koban Sven , Brundiek Henrike , Großjohann Beatrice , Bornscheuer Uwe T.
Published: October 2020

Wir haben die P450‐Monooxygenase CYP107D1 (OleP) aus Streptomyces antibioticus für die stereo‐ und regioselektive 7β‐Hydroxylierung von Lithocholsäure (LCS) zur Herstellung von Ursodeoxycholsäure (UDCS) durch “Protein‐Engineering” angepasst. OleP wurde zuvor für die Hydroxylierung von Testosteron an der 7β‐Position beschrieben, hydroxyliert jedoch LCS ausschließlich an der 6β‐Position, wodurch Murideoxycholsäure (MDCS) gebildet wird. Struktur‐ und 3DM‐Analysen, sowie molekulare Modellierungen wurden verwendet, um die Aminosäurereste F84, S240 und V291 als spezifitätsbestimmend zu identifizieren. Durch einen Alaninscan wurde S240A als UDCS‐produzierende Variante identifiziert. Basierend auf den identifizierten Positionen wurde eine synthetische “small but smart” Bibliothek durch die Verwendung eines farbbasierten Assays auf UDCS Produktion getestet. Hier konnte eine beinahe perfekte regio‐ und stereoselektive Dreifachvariante (F84Q/S240A/V291G) identifiziert werden, die UDCS in einer 10‐fach höheren Menge produziert als die S240A Variante. Der hergestellte Biokatalysator eröffnet neue Möglichkeiten zur umweltfreundlichen Synthese von UDCS aus dem Abfallprodukt LCS.
A Diarylacetonitrile as a Molecular Probe for the Detection of Polymeric Mechanoradicals in the Bulk State through a Radical Chain‐Transfer Mechanism
Authors: Yamamoto Takumi , Kato Sota , Aoki Daisuke , Otsuka Hideyuki
Published: October 2020

Since the beginning of polymer science, understanding the influence of mechanical stress on polymer chains has been a fundamental and important research topic. The detection of mechanoradicals generated by homolytic cleavage of the polymer chains in solution has been studied in many cases. However, the detection of mechanoradicals in the bulk is still limited owing to their high reactivity. Herein, we propose an innovative strategy to detect mechanoradicals visually and quantitatively using a chain‐transfer agent that generates relatively stable fluorescent radicals as a molecular probe. Mechanoradicals generated by ball milling of polystyrene samples were successfully detected by using a diarylacetonitrile compound as a fluorescent molecular probe through this radical chain‐transfer mechanism. This probe enables the visualization and quantitative evaluation of mechanoradicals generated by polymer‐chain scission.
Adaptive Evolution in Producing Microtiter Cultivations Generates Genetically Stable Escherichia coli Production Hosts for Continuous Bioprocessing
Authors: Schuller Artur , Cserjan‐Puschmann Monika , Köppl Christoph , Grabherr Reingard , Wagenknecht Martin , Schiavinato Matteo , Dohm Juliane C. , Himmelbauer Heinz , Striedner Gerald
Published: October 2020

The production of recombinant proteins usually reduces cell fitness and the growth rate of producing cells. The growth disadvantage favors faster‐growing non‐producer mutants. Therefore, continuous bioprocessing is hardly feasible in Escherichia coli due to the high escape rate. The stability of E. coli expression systems under long‐term production conditions and how metabolic load triggered by recombinant gene expression influences the characteristics of mutations are investigated. Iterated fed‐batch‐like microbioreactor cultivations are conducted under production conditions. The easy‐to‐produce green fluorescent protein (GFP) and a challenging antigen‐binding fragment (Fab) are used as model proteins, and BL21(DE3) and BL21Q strains as expression hosts. In comparative whole‐genome sequencing analyses, mutations that allowed cells to grow unhindered despite recombinant protein production are identified. A T7 RNA polymerase expression system is only conditionally suitable for long‐term cultivation under production conditions. Mutations leading to non‐producers occur in either the T7 RNA polymerase gene or the T7 promoter. The host RNA polymerase‐based BL21Q expression system remains stable in the production of GFP in long‐term cultivations. For the production of Fab, mutations in lacI of the BL21Q derivatives have positive effects on long‐term stability. The results indicate that adaptive evolution carried out with genome‐integrated E. coli expression systems in microtiter cultivations under industrial‐relevant production conditions is an efficient strain development tool for production hosts.
Ethnic disparities in demographic, clinicopathologic and biological behaviours and prognosis of gastric cancer in northwest China
Authors: Cao Juan , Chen Jing , Zhang Qinghua , Wu Jing , Wang Wenfan , Zhang Xiaoxu , Zhao Dan , Zhang Qian , Yang Wenjun , Chen Zhiqiang
Published: October 2020

This retrospective study aimed to investigate ethnic disparities in demographic, clinicopathologic, and biological behaviours of gastric cancer (GC) in a high GC incidence area of China. There were 5022 GC patients, including 3987 Han (79.4%) and 987 Hui (14.4%) patients from Northwest China. All patient data were retrieved from 2009 to 2017. Median survival was estimated using the Kaplan‐Meier method and compared using the log‐rank test. A Cox proportional hazards model was used to assess the impact of covariates. Similarly, low 5‐year OS rates were observed in both the Hui and Han groups (23.8% and 24.2% respectively). Hui patients with stage T1 or N0 or with tumours <5 cm had 2.144‐fold, 1.426‐fold and 1.305‐fold increased risks of poor prognosis compared with Han patients with these characteristics respectively (all p < 0.05). Further, Hui patients had 1.265‐fold, 1.364‐fold and 1.401‐fold increased risks of poor prognosis compared with Han patients among those with high expression of Ki67, EGFR and VEGF respectively (all p < 0.05). There are ethnic disparities in the prognosis of GC patients in Northwest China. Understanding the effects of ethnicity on GC will guide reasonable evaluations of prognosis and future interventions to equalise access to high‐quality care for GC patients of different ethnicities in China.
The effects of competency‐based education delivery methods on competency level: A quantitative study
Authors: Foster Melissa R. Bowman , Jones Christopher M.
Published: October 2020

Background

Competency‐based education (CBE) is a quickly evolving, new concept to higher education. Within the CBE context, new delivery methods for course materials create an atmosphere that is highly supportive of learning and allows flexibility for learners who may have already acquired certain knowledge and desire to move on to unknown curriculum. Although many programs, faculty, and students can and do benefit from this new concept, data must also be present to support the validity of this new method as CBE continues to grow in popularity.

Aims

The research presented tested 3 hypotheses:

H10: No change was found in the overall competency level of students on the pre‐and post‐assessment

H1a: A decrease was found in the overall competency level of students on the pre‐and post‐assessments

H1b: An increase was found in the overall competency level of students on the pre‐and post‐assessments

Method

Pre‐ and postself‐assessments were given to a group of graduate students currently enrolled in a CBE program.

Discussion

The results did support one of the hypotheses showing a change in the overall competency level of students on the pre‐ and postself‐assessment. The results support successfulness of the CBE methods.

Conclusions

It is recommended more research be completed to include different degrees, curriculum, and CBE methods. This data can be combined to form a big data set to conduct more valid studies.
TAVR versus SAVR in patients with severe aortic stenosis and concomitant end stage liver disease: When less is more
Authors: Tarantini Giuseppe , Nai Fovino Luca
Published: October 2020

Key Points

End stage liver disease (ESLD) is associated with increased risk of bleeding, nosocomial infections and organ failure after open heart surgery.

In this study, transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) was found to have a lower in‐hospital mortality and shorter length of hospital stay as compared with surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) in ESLD patients.

Broader utilization of transfemoral minimalist TAVR approach might further decrease procedural complications and ameliorate the outcome of this subset of patients at higher surgical risk.
Remove the obstacle and get into the flow!
Authors: Aranzulla Tiziana Claudia , Musumeci Giuseppe
Published: October 2020

Key Points

Patients with classical and paradoxical low‐flow (PLF) aortic stenosis (AS) experience similar improvements in 30‐day quality of life (QoL) following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) as compared to those with normal flow AS.

Particular care should be taken in post‐TAVR management of patients with PLF AS due to a higher rate of rehospitalization for heart failure.

Promoting larger studies with follow‐up strategies that take into account the initial echocardiographic AS phenotype may help in further improving post‐TAVR QoL and outcomes.
Design Platform for Sustainable Catalysis with Radicals: Electrochemical Activation of Cp2TiCl2 for Catalysis Unveiled
Authors: Hilche Tobias , Reinsberg Philip H. , Klare Sven , Liedtke Theresa , Schäfer Luise , Gansäuer Andreas
Published: October 2020

The combination of synthesis, rotating ring‐disk electrode (RRDE) and cyclic voltammetry (CV) measurements, and computational investigations with the aid of DFT methods shows how a thiourea, a squaramide, and a bissulfonamide as additives affect the EqCr equilibrium of Cp2TiCl2. We have, for the first time, provided quantitative data for the EqCr equilibrium and have determined the stoichiometry of adduct formation of [Cp2Ti(III)Cl2]−, [Cp2Ti(III)Cl] and [Cp2Ti(IV)Cl2] and the additives. By studying the structures of the complexes formed by DFT methods, we have established the Gibbs energies and enthalpies of complex formation as well as the adduct structures. The results not only demonstrate the correctness of our use of the EqCr equilibrium as predictor for sustainable catalysis. They are also a design platform for the development of novel additives in particular for enantioselective catalysis.
Insurance status and high‐volume surgical cancer: Access to high‐quality cancer care
Authors: Diaz Adrian , Pawlik Timothy M.
Published: October 2020

Health care providers and policymakers have long been concerned with increasing access to high‐quality health care for all patients. Strategies are needed that disseminate best practices and optimize the delivery of high‐quality cancer care that patients can access anywhere—no matter who is paying.
Progressive disaster evacuation in cloud datacenter network
Authors: Li Xiaole , Luo Yingji , Zhang Wenyin , Fu Deqian , Wang Hua , Zhai Linbo
Published: October 2020

In cloud datacenter network, deadline‐aware disaster evacuation transfers the endangered data out of disaster zone using limited residual network resources. Previous work has not jointly considered the selection of safe datacenter and reasonable allocation of bandwidth proportion in time‐varying postdisaster network environment. Therefore, they cannot make full use of network transmission capability. Based on our earlier work, we propose a new time‐varying disaster evacuation strategy with flexible traffic scheduling. We aim to maximize disaster evacuation capability in the disaster spread scenario. We construct a new disaster‐aware time‐expanded network model to divide time slots according to progressive disaster spread, and optimize the utilization of evacuation capability in the current disaster stage. In each time slot, we carry out two‐step optimization including safe datacenter selection and proportional bandwidth allocation. Especially, we select store‐and‐forward node to ensure the safety of evacuated data in the next time slot, and use marked evacuation routing search based on transmission requirement to improve the utilization of evacuation capability. Through extensive simulations we demonstrate that our strategy achieves better performance with higher evacuation transmission efficiency in the disaster spread scenario.
Random forests as a tool to understand the snow depth distribution and its evolution in mountain areas
Authors: Revuelto Jesús , Billecocq Paul , Tuzet François , Cluzet Bertrand , Lamare Maxim , Larue Fanny , Dumont Marie
Published: October 2020

The small scale distribution of the snowpack in mountain areas is highly heterogeneous, and is mainly controlled by the interactions between the atmosphere and local topography. However, the influence of different terrain features in controlling variations in the snow distribution depends on the characteristics of the study area. As this leads to uncertainties in high spatial resolution snowpack simulations, a deeper understanding of the role of terrain features on the small scale distribution of snow depth is required. This study applied random forest algorithms to investigate the temporal evolution of snow depth in complex alpine terrain using as predictors various topographical variables and in situ snow depth observations at a single location. The high spatial resolution (1 m x 1 m) snow depth distribution database used in training and evaluating the random forests was derived from terrestrial laser scanner (TLS) devices at three study sites, in the French Alps (2 sites) and the Spanish Pyrenees (1 site). The results show the major importance of two topographic variables, the topographic position index and the maximum upwind slope parameter. For these variables the search distances and directions depended on the characteristics of each site and the TLS acquisition date, but are consistent across sites and are tightly related to main wind directions. The weight of the different topographic variables on explaining snow distribution evolves while major snow accumulation events still take place and minor changes are observed after reaching the annual snow accumulation peak. Random forests have demonstrated good performance when predicting snow distribution for the sites included in the training set with R2values ranging from 0.82 to 0.94 and mean absolute errors always below 0.4 m. Oppositely, this algorithm failed when used to predict snow distribution for sites not included in the training set, with mean absolute errors above 0.8 m.
The Process of Art‐making and Creative Expertise: An Analysis of Artists' Process Modification
Authors: Yokochi Sawako , Okada Takeshi
Published: October 2020

The present study investigates how emerging/young and established/expert artists create artwork, paying special attention to modifications in the art‐making process. Here, “process modification” is the means by which artists generate new artistic concepts by modifying elements of their previous artwork. To examine whether emerging artists use such modifications in the same manner as experts, we interviewed 28 contemporary artists (including 14 experts). The results reveal that most of the emerging artists modified their work unsystematically. Emerging artists drastically changed the subject/motif, method, and concept for their new artwork. Experts, in contrast, used Concept modification to generate new art ideas based on their creative vision and to produce more artwork series than before finding a creative vision. These results are discussed in relation to the development of creative expertise.
Supercritical fluid chromatography hyphenated to mass spectrometry for metabolomics applications
Authors: Gordillo Ruth
Published: October 2020

While supercritical fluid chromatography was developed over 50 years ago, it is only over the past 15 to 20 years that it has become routinely utilized. Along with the commercialization of a new generation of instruments, during the last 20 years supercritical fluid chromatography has improved performance, reliability, and robustness. Supercritical fluid chromatography is fully compatible with mass spectrometric techniques. This review compiles the application of supercritical fluid chromatography separations coupled to mass spectrometry instrumentation for the exploration, profiling, and quantitation of metabolites during the last two decades. The selection of metabolites chosen for this article have direct applications in preclinical models of disease and clinical applications as potential biomarkers of disease including lipids, steroid hormones, bile acids, polar metabolites, peptides, and proteins.
The Novel Use of Point‐of‐Care Ultrasound to Predict Resting Energy Expenditure in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Mukhtar Ahmed , Abdelghany Mohamed , Hasanin Ahmed , Hamimy Walid , Abougabal Ayman , Nasser Haytham , Elsayed Allam , Ayman Eslam
Published: October 2020

Objectives

Accurate estimation of a critically ill patient's caloric requirements is essential for a proper nutritional plan. This study aimed to evaluate the use of point‐of‐care ultrasound (US) to predict the resting energy expenditure (REE) in critically ill patients.

Methods

In 69 critically ill patients, we measured the REE using indirect calorimetry (REE_IC), muscle layer thicknesses (MLTs), and cardiac output (CO). Muscle thickness was measured at the biceps and the quadriceps muscles. Patients were randomly split into a model development group (n = 46) and a cross‐validation group (n = 23). In the model development group, a multiple regression analysis was applied to generate REE using US (REE_US) values. In the cross‐validation group, REE was calculated by the REE_US and the resting energy expenditure using the Harris‐Benedict equation (REE_HB), and both were compared to the REE_IC.

Results

In the model development group, the REE_US was predicted by the following formula: predicted REE_US (kcal/d) = 206 + 173.5 × CO (L/min) + 137 × MLT (cm) – 230 × (women = 1; men = 0) (R2 = 0.8; P < .0001). In the cross‐validated group, the REE_IC and REE_US values were comparable (mean difference, −66 [−3.3%] kcal/d; P = .14). However, the difference between the mean REE_IC and the mean REE_HB was 455.8 (26%) kcal/d (P < .001). According to a Bland–Altman analysis, the REE_US agreed well with the REE_IC, whereas the REE_HB did not.

Conclusions

Resting energy expenditure could be estimated from US measurements of MLTs and CO. Our point‐of‐care US model explains 80% of the change in the REE in critically ill patients.
Real‐Time, Intraoperative, Ultrasound‐Assisted Transoral Robotic Surgery for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Chang Chan‐Chi , Wu Jiunn‐Liang , Hsiao Jenn‐Ren , Lin Cheng‐Yu
Published: October 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

To investigate the lingual artery (LA) position in the tongue base through intraoperative ultrasound (IOU) imaging during transoral robotic surgery (TORS) and evaluate bleeding complications with or without the assistance of IOU.

Study Design

Cohort study with historical control.

Methods

Patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) who underwent TORS for tongue base resection were recruited since 2016. During surgery, ultrasound imaging was employed to identify anatomic parameters of the LA in the tongue base, including distance to the midline and arterial depth and diameter.

Results

Ninety‐three OSA patients (82 men, 88.2%) were analyzed. Mean age was 42.2 ± 10.0 years and body mass index was 29.2 ± 4.5 kg/m2. Average apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) was 58.1 ± 21.4 events/hour. Overall, 70 patients who underwent TORS with IOU had a shorter operation time (191.7 ± 3.8 vs. 220.1 ± 6.6 minutes), lower total blood loss (11.3 ± 10.8 vs. 19.6 ± 26.7 mL), and higher tongue base reduction volume (7.1 ± 2.5 vs. 3.9 ± 1.6 mL) than 23 patients who underwent TORS without IOU. Significant predictors of arterial depth included higher AHI level during the rapid eye movement sleep (P = .038), larger tonsil size (P = .034), and more elevated Friedman tongue position (P = .012). Postoperative complications associated with LA injury were not found in patients subjected to IOU.

Conclusions

With the assistance of IOU, surgeons can confidently determine LA position. The use of IOU can maximize efficiency and minimize catastrophic bleeding complications when OSA patients undergo TORS for tongue base resection.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:E1383–E1390, 2021
Evaluation of overall and disease‐free survival in patients with free flaps for oral cancer resection
Authors: Makiguchi Takaya , Yamaguchi Takahiro , Nakamura Hideharu , Yamatsu Yukie , Hirai Yuki , Shoda Koki , Kurozumi Sasagu , Ibaragi Soichiro , Harimoto Norifumi , Motegi Sei‐ichiro , Shirabe Ken , Yokoo Satoshi
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Sarcopenia is characterized by depletion of skeletal muscle mass (SMM) and can cause increased postoperative complication in free flap procedure. One of the most important considerations while deciding the indication of the procedure is patients' survival. This study aimed to verify the relationship between low SMM and survival in patients who undergo oral cancer resection using free flap.

Methods

SMM was evaluated using the skeletal muscle index (SMI cm2/m2), which was defined using cross‐sectional areas of skeletal muscles on computed tomography at the level of the third lumbar vertebrae normalized for height. Overall, 111 patients who underwent primary oral cancer resection and free flaps were included. Multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to evaluate the prognostic factors for survival.

Results

A total of 25 patients (22.5%) were diagnosed with low SMM. The mean SMI was 42.2 cm2/m2. Multivariable analyses showed that increased age (hazard ratio [HR]; 4.98, p = .004), infiltrative growth pattern INF‐c (HR; 3.83, p = .037), and low SMM (HR; 2.59, p = .034) were significant negative prognostic factors for overall survival. Increased age (HR; 3.18, p = .005), extra‐nodal extension (HR; 3.30, p = .001), and low SMM (HR; 2.42, p = .017) were significant negative prognostic factors for disease‐free survival.

Conclusions

Low SMM is a significant negative prognostic factor for overall and disease‐free survival in oral cancer patients undergoing free flap. Future prospective studies are warranted to identify effective preoperative exercise and nutrition programs to improve low skeletal muscle and survival rate in patients undergoing free flap procedures.
A novel planar wide‐angle scanning phased array under operation of TM10 and TM20 modes
Authors: Guan Lian‐Xu , Cheng You‐Feng , Feng Ju , Liao Cheng
Published: October 2020

A low‐profile planar phased array based on the hybrid‐mode patch technique is presented to achieve the goal of increasing the scanning angle. The array element antenna simultaneously operates at TM10 and TM20 modes of two rectangle patches. By adjusting the length of a slot etched on one patch, the far field of the two modes can be combined by a certain proportion, and thus the complementary beams realize wide‐beam radiation. Besides, in order to improve the array active reflection performance in a wide‐scan range, the slot technique is adopted to achieve the element miniaturization, and a grounded isolator is introduced to reduce the mutual coupling between the array elements. The proposed phased array shows a measured main‐beam coverage from −68° to +66° with its gain fluctuation and sidelobe levels lower than 1.5 and − 10 dB, respectively.
Intermediate band solar cells: Present and future
Authors: Ramiro Iñigo , Martí Antonio
Published: October 2020

In the quest for high‐efficiency photovoltaics (PV), the intermediate band solar cell (IBSC) was proposed in 1997 as an alternative to tandem solar cells. The IBSC offers 63% efficiency under maximum solar concentration using a single semiconductor material. This high‐efficiency limit attracted the attention of the PV community, yielding to numerous intermediate band (IB) studies and IBSC prototypes employing a plethora of candidate IB materials. As a consequence, the principles of operation of the IBSC have been demonstrated, and the particularities and difficulties inherent to each different technological implementation of the IBSC have been reasonably identified and understood. From a theoretical and experimental point of view, the IBSC research has reached a mature stage. Yet we feel that, driven by the large number of explored materials and technologies so far, there is some confusion about what route the IBSC research should take to transition from the proof of concept to high efficiency. In this work, we give our view on which the next steps should be. For this, first, we briefly review the theoretical framework of the IBSC, the achieved experimental milestones, and the different technological approaches used, with special emphasis on those recently proposed.
How students conceptualize grade‐based acceleration in inclusive settings
Authors: Dare Lynn , Nowicki Elizabeth A. , Murray Lori L.
Published: October 2020

Despite extensive research supporting educational acceleration for students with high academic ability, some psychologists, counselors, and educators express concerns about accelerative interventions. Such concerns often hinge on uncertainty about social acceptance, even in inclusive education settings. Research on acceleration has consistently shown benefits for students with high ability; however, there is a lack of research about grade‐based acceleration in inclusive schools. This study engaged two groups of students in group concept mapping processes to examine how they conceptualized beliefs about grade‐based acceleration in inclusive schools. First, 26 students in inclusive classes generated beliefs about grade‐based acceleration. Then they, and a group of 14 students with high ability, structured the data by sorting and rating a synthesized list of the generated beliefs. We analyzed the sorted data using multidimensional scaling and hierarchical cluster analysis. The resultant cluster maps revealed some differences and some similarities in the ways that the two groups of students conceptualized beliefs about educational acceleration. Practical implications are discussed.
Study on Shock‐Induced Chemical Energy Release Behavior of Al/W/PTFE Reactive Material with Mechanical‐Thermal‐Chemical Coupling SPH Approach
Authors: Ren Kerong , Chen Jin , Qing Hua , Chen Rong , Chen Peng , Lin Yuliang , Guo Baoyue
Published: October 2020

Reactive materials (RMs) are usually prepared from metal/non‐metal mixed powders through hot processing. RMs are widely used in warheads since they are inert under common conditions but release massive amounts of energy in chemical reactions induced by impact loading. However, the shock‐induced chemical energy release during impact has a complicated mechanism and needs to be further explored. This work investigated the shock‐induced chemical energy release behavior of the Al/W/PTFE RM. The experimental results show that the energy release efficiency of RM in direct ballistic tests increases with increasing impact velocity (v), and the extent of chemical reaction (y) can reach ∼0.8 at v=1250 m s−1. Meanwhile, we propose a new numerical simulation approach based on the LS‐DYNA software, combining the user‐defined equation of state considering the chemical reactions and the smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) method. This approach can describe the ultra‐fast chemical reaction and crushing behavior of Al/W/PTFE RM during the impact process, taking into account the mechanical‐thermal‐chemical coupling effect. The relative errors of y between the numerical simulations and the experiments are below 25 %. Moreover, the simulation results also provide many details about the ultra‐fast chemical reactions. As v increases, the values of y and the maximum chemical reaction rate (dy/dtmax) also increase from 0.134 and 0.017 μs−1 at v=700 m s−1 to 0.882 and 0.181 μs−1 at v=1300 m s−1, respectively.
Molecular and structural analysis of central transport channel in complex with Nup93 of nuclear pore complex
Authors: Sonawane Parshuram J. , S. Dewangan Pravin , Madheshiya Pankaj Kumar , Chopra Kriti , Kumar Mohit , Niranjan Sangeeta , Ansari Mohammed Yousuf , Singh Jyotsana , Bawaria Shrankhla , Banerjee Manidipa , Chauhan Radha
Published: October 2020

The central transport channel (CTC) of nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) is made up of three nucleoporins Nup62, Nup58 and Nup54. In which manner and capacity, these nucleoporins form the CTC, is not yet clear. We explored the CTC Nups from various species and observed that distinct biochemical characteristics of CTC Nups are evolutionarily conserved. Moreover, comparative biochemical analysis of CTC complexes showed various stoichiometric combinations of Nup62, Nup54 and Nup58 coexisting together. We observed the conserved amino‐terminal domain of mammalian Nup93 is crucial for the anchorage of CTC and its localization to NPCs. We could reconstitute and purify mammalian CTC·Nup93 quaternary complex by co‐expressing full length or N‐terminal domain of Nup93 along with CTC complex. Further, we characterized CTC·Nup93 complex using small angle X‐ray scattering and electron microscopy that revealed a “V” shape of CTC·Nup93 complex. Overall, this study demonstrated for the first time evolutionarily conserved plasticity and stoichiometric diversity in CTC Nups.
The influence of hydro‐climatic and anthropogenic effects on the long‐term variation of commercial fisheries in a large floodplain river
Authors: Rabuffetti Ana P. , Espínola Luis A. , Abrial Elie , Amsler Mario L. , Eurich Maria F. , Blettler Martín C. M.
Published: October 2020

This study deals with the effects of climate fluctuations and anthropogenic impacts on fisheries of Paraná River over the last 100 years. It is the first attempt to appraise the influence of hydro‐climatic and anthropogenic variables on the population changes of the most important inland fisheries of Argentina. Datasets covering more than eight decades (1935–2016) of a number of frequent and abundant commercial species inhabiting the main channel as well as the large floodplain of Paraná River were used. Our results suggest that fish catches and structure changed over time. Long and short‐term changes and reductions were closely related to fluctuations of 18 hydro‐climatic variables. Positive effects on the ichthyofauna were recorded during humid periods (1930–1940 and 1970–2000), when the frequency of large spring–summer floods increased. An increase in anthropic impacts (accounted for with nine variables) were recorded during the last two decades. We highlight the usefulness of the approach to support the management of the resources, ensuring sustainability of commercial fish assemblages and the long‐term conservation of biodiversity in big rivers.
Analyzing left‐truncated and right‐censored infectious disease cohort data with interval‐censored infection onset
Authors: Pak Daewoo , Liu Jun , Ning Jing , Gómez Guadalupe , Shen Yu
Published: October 2020

In an infectious disease cohort study, individuals who have been infected with a pathogen are often recruited for follow up. The period between infection and the onset of symptomatic disease, referred to as the incubation period, is of interest because of its importance on disease surveillance and control. However, the incubation period is often difficult to ascertain due to the uncertainty associated with asymptomatic infection onset time. An additional complication is that the observed infected subjects are likely to have longer incubation periods due to the prevalent sampling. In this article, we demonstrate how to estimate the distribution of the incubation period with the uncertain infection onset, subject to left‐truncation and right‐censoring. We employ a family of sufficiently general parametric models, the generalized odds‐rate class of regression models, for the underlying incubation period and its correlation with covariates. In simulation studies, we assess the finite sample performance of the model fitting and hazard function estimation. The proposed method is illustrated on data from the HIV/AIDS study on injection drug users admitted to a detoxification program in Badalona, Spain.
Applying Constructionist Approaches to Teaching English Argument Structure Constructions to EFL Learners
Authors: Kim Hyunwoo , Rah Yangon
Published: October 2020

The present study investigated the effects of construction‐based instruction on Korean English as a foreign language (EFL) learners’ production of the English argument structure constructions. Within the theoretical framework of construction grammar (Goldberg, 1995), the authors presented college students with English constructions in a hierarchical network and provided contextually meaningful visual scenes in connection with the language input. Results from translation and guided writing tasks, which were implemented before, immediately after, and 4 weeks after the learning sessions, revealed that learners who received construction‐based instruction outperformed those who received form‐centered instruction in both immediate and delayed posttests. Further, among the construction‐based groups, only those learners who were presented with the target constructions in a network hierarchy maintained improved performance in the delayed posttest. The authors conclude by addressing the pedagogical implications for construction‐based teaching in the EFL context.
One-loop jet functions by geometric subtraction
Authors: Basdew-Sharma Avanish , Herzog Franz , van Velzen Solange Schrijnder , Waalewijn Wouter J.
Published: October 2020

Abstract

In factorization formulae for cross sections of scattering processes, final-state jets are described by jet functions, which are a crucial ingredient in the resummation of large logarithms. We present an approach to calculate generic one-loop jet functions, by using the geometric subtraction scheme. This method leads to local counterterms generated from a slicing procedure; and whose analytic integration is particularly simple. The poles are obtained analytically, up to an integration over the azimuthal angle for the observable- dependent soft counterterm. The poles depend only on the soft limit of the observable, characterized by a power law, and the finite term is written as a numerical integral. We illustrate our method by reproducing the known expressions for the jet function for angularities, the jet shape, and jets defined through a cone or kT algorithm. As a new result, we obtain the one-loop jet function for an angularity measurement in e+e− collisions, that accounts for the formally power-suppressed but potentially large effect of recoil. An implementation of our approach is made available as the GOJet Mathematica package accompanying this paper.
Electromagnetic quasitopological gravities
Authors: Cano Pablo A. , Murcia Ángel
Published: October 2020

Abstract

We identify a set of higher-derivative extensions of Einstein-Maxwell theory that allow for spherically symmetric charged solutions characterized by a single metric function f (r) = −gtt = 1/grr. These theories are a non-minimally coupled version of the recently constructed Generalized Quasitopological gravities and they satisfy a number of properties that we establish. We study magnetically-charged black hole solutions in these new theories and we find that for some of them the equations of motion can be fully integrated, enabling us to obtain analytic solutions. In those cases we show that, quite generally, the singularity at the core of the black hole is removed by the higher-derivative corrections and that the solution describes a globally regular geometry. In other cases, the equations are reduced to a second order equation for f (r). Nevertheless, for all the theories it is possible to study the thermodynamic properties of charged black holes analytically. We show that the first law of thermodynamics holds exactly and that the Euclidean and Noether-charge methods provide equivalent results. We then study extremal black holes, focusing on the corrections to the extremal charge-to-mass ratio at a non-perturbative level. We observe that in some theories there are no extremal black holes below certain mass. We also show the existence of theories for which extremal black holes do not represent the minimal mass state for a given charge. The implications of these findings for the evaporation process of black holes are discussed.
Establishing strongly-coupled 3D AdS quantum gravity with Ising dual using all-genus partition functions
Authors: Jian Chao-Ming , Ludwig Andreas W. W. , Luo Zhu-Xi , Sun Hao-Yu , Wang Zhenghan
Published: October 2020

Abstract

We study 3D pure Einstein quantum gravity with negative cosmological constant, in the regime where the AdS radius l is of the order of the Planck scale. Specifically, when the Brown-Henneaux central charge c = 3l/2GN (GN is the 3D Newton constant) equals c = 1/2, we establish duality between 3D gravity and 2D Ising conformal field theory by matching gravity and conformal field theory partition functions for AdS spacetimes with general asymptotic boundaries. This duality was suggested by a genus-one calculation of Castro et al. [Phys. Rev. D85 (2012) 024032]. Extension beyond genus-one requires new mathematical results based on 3D Topological Quantum Field Theory; these turn out to uniquely select the c = 1/2 theory among all those with c < 1, extending the previous results of Castro et al. Previous work suggests the reduction of the calculation of the gravity partition function to a problem of summation over the orbits of the mapping class group action on a “vacuum seed”. But whether or not the summation is well-defined for the general case was unknown before this work. Amongst all theories with Brown-Henneaux central charge c < 1, the sum is finite and unique only when c = 1/2, corresponding to a dual Ising conformal field theory on the asymptotic boundary.
Metaphyseal sleeves in arthroplasty of the knee
Authors: Lycke Christian , Zajonz Dirk , Brand Alexander , Prietzel Torsten , Heyde Christoph-E. , Roth Andreas , Ghanem Mohamed
Published: October 2020

Background

This study examined the clinical outcome following revision arthroplasty of the knee joint and severe arthrosis with metaphyseal bone defects and instability using metaphyseal sleeves. We analyzed the results based on established scores and recorded the complications occurring on revision arthroplasty.

Material and methods

Patients with revision arthroplasty of the knee and metaphyseal bone defects grade III according to the Anderson Orthopedic Research Institute (AORI) classification were included (16 patients, 9 females and 7 males). In all cases, surgery was performed using an endoprosthesis COMPLETE™ revision knee system with metaphyseal sleeves.

Results

All patients had a significant reduction in pain level after revision surgery. The median HSS score in the cohort with primary arthroplasty was 84 and in the cohort with revision arthroplasty 73 and the KSS was 83 and 55, respectively. According to the HSS an excellent result was achieved by 50% of the patients in the primary arthroplasty group and 25% in the revision group. Only three patients were considered to have an insufficient result. Postoperative pain was significantly reduced in both groups. The median ROM was 112° flexion in the primary arthroplasty group and 95° in the revision group. An extension deficit was observed in three patients and four patients showed prolonged wound healing postoperatively (25%), which was treated conservatively and did not lead to septic changes.

Conclusion

The use of metaphyseal sleeves in patients with bone defects is a suitable instrument with no negative impact on the outcome both in primary and revision arthroplasty. Further studies with larger study groups and analysis of long-term results after use of such endoprosthetic components should be conducted.
Tempting goods, self-control fatigue, and time preference in consumer dynamics
Authors: Ikeda Shinsuke , Ojima Takeshi
Published: October 2020

We propose a dynamic model of consumer behavior under limited self-control, emphasizing the fatiguing nature of self-regulation. The temptation theory is extended in a two-good setting with tempting and non-tempting goods, where self-regulation in moderating tempting good consumption depreciates mental capital (willpower). The resulting non-homothetic feature of consumer preferences helps describe self-regulatory behavior in such an empirically relevant way that it depends on the nature of the tempting good (luxury or inferior) and on consumer wealth. First, richer consumers are more self-indulgent and impatient in consuming tempting luxuries, whereas less so in consuming tempting inferiors: impatience is marginally increasing in wealth for jewels whereas decreasing for junk foods. Second, self-control fatigue weakens implied patience for tempting good consumption. Third, upon a stressful shock, with the resulting increasing scarcity of willpower, self-indulgence and impatience for tempting good consumption increase over time. Fourth, naive consumers, unaware of the willpower constraint, display weaker self-control in the long run than sophisticated consumers in the same wealth class would do.
An Analysis of 30‐Day in‐Hospital Trauma Mortality in Four Urban University Hospitals Using the Australia India Trauma Registry
Authors: Bhandarkar Prashant , Patil Priti , Soni Kapil Dev , O'Reilly Gerard M. , Dharap Satish , Mathew Joseph , Sharma Naveen , Sarang Bhakti , Gadgil Anita , Roy Nobhojit ,   Australia‐India Trauma System Collaboration
Published: October 2020

Background

India has one‐sixth (16%) of the world's population but more than one‐fifth (21%) of the world's injury mortality. A trauma registry established by the Australia India Trauma Systems Collaboration (AITSC) Project was utilized to study 30‐day in‐hospital trauma mortality at high‐volume Indian hospitals.

Methods

The AITSC Project collected data prospectively between April 2016 and March 2018 at four Indian university hospitals in New Delhi, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad. Patients admitted with an injury mechanism of road or rail‐related injury, fall, assault, or burns were included. The associations between demographic, physiological on‐admission vitals, and process‐of‐care parameters with early (0–24 h), delayed (1–7 days), and late (8–30 days) in‐hospital trauma mortality were analyzed.

Results

Of 9354 patients in the AITSC registry, 8606 were subjected to analysis. The 30‐day mortality was 12.4% among all trauma victims. Early (24‐h) mortality was 1.9%, delayed (1–7 days) mortality was 7.3%, and late (8–30 days) mortality was 3.2%. Abnormal physiological parameters such as a low SBP, SpO2, and GCS and high HR and RR were observed among non‐survivors. Early initiation of trauma assessment and monitoring on arrival was an important process of care indicator for predicting 30‐day survival.

Conclusions

One in ten admitted trauma patients (12.4%) died in urban trauma centers in India. More than half of the trauma deaths were delayed, beyond 24 h but within one week following injury. On‐admission physiological vital signs remain a valid predictor of early 24‐h trauma mortality.
The social and health implications of digital work intensification. Associations between exposure to information and communication technologies, health and work ability in different socio-economic strata
Authors: Borle Prem , Boerner-Zobel Franziska , Voelter-Mahlknecht Susanne , Hasselhorn Hans Martin , Ebener Melanie
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Older employees are often thought to be vulnerable to negative effects of information and communication technology (ICT). Our study aims to examine associations between work-related ICT exposure (i.e. ICT use or digital work intensification), physical health, mental health and work ability (WA). We examine whether these associations are modified by socio-economic position (SEP).

Methods

We analysed cross-sectional data from 3180 participants (born in 1959 and 1965) in wave 3 of the representative German lidA cohort study. We performed hierarchical multiple regression to assess the distinct associations of ICT use and digital work intensification with mental and physical health and WA. We stratified analyses by SEP and controlled for age, sex, and digital affinity.

Results

92% of participants reported ICT use at work. Almost 20% reported high levels of digital work intensification, while a similar proportion did not experience digital work intensification. In bivariate analyses, ICT use by itself was not significantly associated with mental health or WA in the total sample or when stratified. Digital work intensification displayed negative associations with mental health and WA. In hierarchical multiple regressions, digital work intensification showed consistently negative associations with mental health and work ability of similar strength across SEP.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that ICT use, per se, does not negatively impact older workers. Digital work intensification may be associated with worse mental health and work ability. Research on health and social implications of work-related ICT should differentiate patterns of ICT exposure and assess modifications by SEP to better gauge the ambiguous effects of ICT.