bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SwapMyMood: User-Centered Design and Development of a Mobile App to Support Executive Function
Authors: Wallace Tracey D. , Morris John T.
Published: September 2020

This paper describes the research and development of the SwapMyMood smartphone application designed to support use of evidence-based executive function strategies by people with traumatic brain injury. Executive dysfunction is a common sequela of traumatic brain injury (TBI) resulting in diminished cognitive-behavioral functioning. Problem-solving and emotion regulation are cognitive-behavioral functions that are often disrupted by changes in the executive control system. SwapMyMood is an electronic version of the Executive Plus/STEP program, a set of clinical techniques taught to people living with brain injury to help them 1) identify and implement solutions to problems encountered in daily life and 2) to utilize the emotion cycle to understand and regulate emotional responses to these problems. The Executive Plus/STEP program has until now relied on paper-based instruction and use. Input from target users – people with brain injury and clinical professionals who teach this program to their patients – has contributed to key refinements of features and functioning of the mobile app. Data gathered from target user participation in the user-centered design process are presented. Future directions for ongoing development of technologies to support executive function strategies are also discussed.
The convolutional double copy: a case study with a point
Authors: Luna Andrés , Nagy Silvia , White Chris D.
Published: September 2020

The double copy relates scattering amplitudes in gauge and gravity theories. It has also been extended to classical solutions, and a number of approaches have been developed for doing so. One of these involves expressing fields in a variety of (super-)gravity theories in terms of convolutions of gauge fields, including also BRST ghost degrees of freedom that map neatly to their corresponding counterparts in gravity. In this paper, we spell out how to use the convolutional double copy to map gauge and gravity solutions in the manifest Lorenz and de Donder gauges respectively. We then apply this to a particular example, namely the point charge in pure gauge theory. As well as clarifying how to use the convolutional approach, our results provide an alternative point of view on a recent discussion concerning whether point charges map to the Schwarzschild solution, or the more general two-parameter JNW solution, which includes a dilaton field. We confirm the latter.
GV-spectroscopy for F-theory on genus-one fibrations
Authors: Oehlmann Paul-Konstantin , Schimannek Thorsten
Published: September 2020

Abstract

We present a novel technique to obtain base independent expressions for the matter loci of fibrations of complete intersection Calabi-Yau onefolds in toric ambient spaces. These can be used to systematically construct elliptically and genus one fibered Calabi-Yau d-folds that lead to desired gauge groups and spectra in F-theory. The technique, which we refer to as GV-spectroscopy, is based on the calculation of fiber Gopakumar-Vafa invariants using the Batyrev-Borisov construction of mirror pairs and application of the so-called Frobenius method to the data of a parametrized auxiliary polytope. In particular for fibers that generically lead to multiple sections, only multi-sections or that are complete intersections in higher codimension, our technique is vastly more efficient than classical approaches. As an application we study two Higgs chains of six-dimensional supergravities that are engineered by fibrations of codimension two complete intersection fibers. Both chains end on a vacuum with G = ℤ4 that is engineered by fibrations of bi-quadrics in ℙ3. We use the detailed knowledge of the structure of the reducible fibers that we obtain from GV-spectroscopy to comment on the corresponding Tate-Shafarevich group. We also show that for all fibers the six-dimensional supergravity anomalies including the discrete anomalies generically cancel.
A free Lie algebra approach to curvature corrections to flat space-time
Authors: Gomis Joaquim , Kleinschmidt Axel , Roest Diederik , Salgado-Rebolledo Patricio
Published: September 2020

Abstract

We investigate a systematic approach to include curvature corrections to the isometry algebra of flat space-time order-by-order in the curvature scale. The Poincaré algebra is extended to a free Lie algebra, with generalised boosts and translations that no longer commute. The additional generators satisfy a level-ordering and encode the curvature corrections at that order. This eventually results in an infinite-dimensional algebra that we refer to as Poincaré∞, and we show that it contains among others an (A)dS quotient. We discuss a non-linear realisation of this infinite-dimensional algebra, and construct a particle action based on it. The latter yields a geodesic equation that includes (A)dS curvature corrections at every order.
R0 resection following chemo (radio)therapy improves survival of primary inoperable pancreatic cancer patients. Interim results of the German randomized CONKO-007± trial
Authors: Fietkau R. , Grützmann R. , Wittel U. A. , Croner R. S. , Jacobasch L. , Neumann U. P. , Reinacher-Schick A. , Imhoff D. , Boeck S. , Keilholz L. , Oettle H. , Hohenberger W. M. , Golcher H. , Bechstein W. O. , Uhl W. , Pirkl A. , Adler W. , Semrau S. , Rutzner S. , Ghadimi M. , Lubgan D.
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Chemotherapy with or without radiotherapy is the standard in patients with initially nonmetastatic unresectable pancreatic cancer. Additional surgery is in discussion. The CONKO-007 multicenter randomized trial examines the value of radiotherapy. Our interim analysis showed a significant effect of surgery, which may be relevant to clinical practice.

Methods

One hundred eighty patients received induction chemotherapy (gemcitabine or FOLFIRINOX). Patients without tumor progression were randomized to either chemotherapy alone or to concurrent chemoradiotherapy. At the end of therapy, a panel of five independent pancreatic surgeons judged the resectability of the tumor.

Results

Following induction chemotherapy, 126/180 patients (70.0%) were randomized to further treatment. Following study treatment, 36/126 patients (28.5%) underwent surgery; (R0: 25/126 [19.8%]; R1/R2/Rx [n = 11/126; 6.1%]). Disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were significantly better for patients with R0 resected tumors (median DFS and OS: 16.6 months and 26.5 months, respectively) than for nonoperated patients (median DFS and OS: 11.9 months and 16.5 months, respectively; p = 0.003). In the 25 patients with R0 resected tumors before treatment, only 6/113 (5.3%) of the recommendations of the panel surgeons recommended R0 resectability, compared with 17/48 (35.4%) after treatment (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Tumor resectability of pancreatic cancer staged as unresectable at primary diagnosis should be reassessed after neoadjuvant treatment. The patient should undergo surgery if a resectability is reached, as this significantly improves their prognosis.
Von der Rekonstruktion zur Funktion
Authors: Beleites T. , Zahnert T. , Polk M.-L. , Kluge A. , Neudert M. , Kemper M.
Published: September 2020

Hintergrund

In der Mittelohrchirurgie bedarf es ausgezeichneter feinmotorischer Fertigkeiten. Aufgrund des hohen Komplikationspotenzials im Mittelohr ist die Ausbildung dieser Fertigkeiten am Modell anzustreben.

Fragestellung

Wie gut ist die Ausbildungsmöglichkeit an geeigneten Modellen? Können die am Modell erlernten Fertigkeiten in die intraoperative Situation übertragen werden? Beeinflusst das Modell und die Ausbildung daran die zukünftige Ohrchirurgie?

Material und Methode

Vorliegende Publikationen und eigene Erfahrungen am Dresdener Tympanoplastikmodell (DTM) wurden analysiert und diskutiert.

Ergebnisse

Obwohl die Mittelohrchirurgie hohe Anforderungen an den Ausführenden stellt und am Sinnesorgan Ohr schwerwiegende Komplikationen drohen, gibt es bisher nur wenige Trainingsmöglichkeiten dafür. Das DTM ist ein validiertes Übungsmodell, das diese Lücke schließen kann. Durch eine Real-Time-Feedback-Variante des Modells kann auch das Verständnis für Rekonstruktionsqualität und intraoperative akustische Noxen verbessert werden. Die Übertragung des Real-Time-Feedback-Gedankens in die reale Mittelohrchirurgie kann die Rekonstruktionsqualität zukünftig verbessern.

Schlussfolgerungen

Das Training an geeigneten Modellen ist speziell beim Erlernen der Mittelohrchirurgie anzustreben. Mit dem Real-Time-Feedback kann beim Lernen und Operieren eine weitere Sinneswahrnehmung in die eigene und fremde Qualitätskontrolle der Tympanoplastik sehr wirksam einbezogen werden.
Initiation of antidepressant use among refugee and Swedish-born youth after diagnosis of a common mental disorder: findings from the REMAIN study
Authors: Taipale Heidi , Niederkrotenthaler Thomas , Helgesson Magnus , Sijbrandij Marit , Berg Lisa , Tanskanen Antti , Mittendorfer-Rutz Ellenor
Published: September 2020

Purpose

The objective of this study was to compare the initiation and type of antidepressant use between refugees and matched Swedish-born youth after a diagnosis of a common mental disorder (CMD) and assess sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with the initiation.

Methods

The study cohort included youth aged 16–25 years, with an incident diagnosis of CMD based on specialized health care registers in Sweden 2006–2016, without prior antidepressant use during 1 year. One Swedish-born person was matched for each identified refugee youth (N = 3936 in both groups). Initiation of antidepressant use and factors associated with the initiation, were investigated with logistic regression yielding Odds ratios, OR, and 95% Confidence Intervals, CI.

Results

Refugees were less likely to initiate antidepressant use compared with Swedish-born (40.5% vs. 59.6%, adjusted OR 0.43, 95% CI 0.39–0.48). Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) were less frequently initiated for refugees than Swedish-born (71.2% vs. 81.3% of initiations, p < 0.0001). Sertraline was the most commonly initiated antidepressant both for refugees (34.3%) and Swedish-born individuals (40.3%). Among refugees, factors associated with increased odds of antidepressant initiation were previous use of anxiolytics or hypnotics, previous sickness absence of < 90 days, cancer and older age (OR range 1.07–2.72), and less than 5 years duration of residency in Sweden was associated with decreased odds (OR 0.76, 95% CI 0.63–0.92).

Conclusion

Young refugees with a CMD seem to initiate antidepressants in general and those most effective considerably less often than their Swedish-born counterparts.
Infektionsscreening in der Geburtshilfe
Authors: Stahel Michèle
Published: September 2020

Nach welchen Infekten in der Schwangerschaft systematisch gesucht werden soll, hängt davon ab, ob die Voraussetzungen für ein Screening erfüllt sind. Dies ist der Fall etwa bei Röteln und Windpocken. Ideal wäre präkonzeptionelle Überprüfung des Impfstatus, ansonsten muss er in der Frühschwangerschaft überprüft werden, um die Mutter postpartal impfen zu können. Syphilis ist zwar selten, stellt aber ein ernsthaftes Problem dar bei einer Frühform in der Schwangerschaft und es gibt eine wirksame Therapie. Das HIV(humanes Immundefizienzvirus)-Screening in der Schwangerschaft hat sich flächendeckend etabliert. Die Kolonisation mit B‑Streptokokken ist bei subpartaler Übertragung hauptverantwortlich für die neonatale Sepsis, daher ist ein Screening sinnvoll. Andere Infektionen erfüllen die Kriterien für eine systematische Suche nicht, so etwa die Toxoplasmose oder eine Primärinfektion mit dem Cytomegalievirus in der Schwangerschaft.
Multiple-endpoint in vitro carcinogenicity test in human cell line TK6 distinguishes carcinogens from non-carcinogens and highlights mechanisms of action
Authors: Chapman Katherine E. , Wilde Eleanor C. , Chapman Fiona M. , Verma Jatin R. , Shah Ume-Kulsoom , Stannard Leanne M. , Seager Anna L. , Tonkin James A. , Brown M. Rowan , Doherty Ann T. , Johnson George E. , Doak Shareen H. , Jenkins Gareth J. S.
Published: September 2020

Current in vitro genotoxicity tests can produce misleading positive results, indicating an inability to effectively predict a compound’s subsequent carcinogenic potential in vivo. Such oversensitivity can incur unnecessary in vivo tests to further investigate positive in vitro results, supporting the need to improve in vitro tests to better inform risk assessment. It is increasingly acknowledged that more informative in vitro tests using multiple endpoints may support the correct identification of carcinogenic potential. The present study, therefore, employed a holistic, multiple-endpoint approach using low doses of selected carcinogens and non-carcinogens (0.001–770 µM) to assess whether these chemicals caused perturbations in molecular and cellular endpoints relating to the Hallmarks of Cancer. Endpoints included micronucleus induction, alterations in gene expression, cell cycle dynamics, cell morphology and bioenergetics in the human lymphoblastoid cell line TK6. Carcinogens ochratoxin A and oestradiol produced greater Integrated Signature of Carcinogenicity scores for the combined endpoints than the “misleading” in vitro positive compounds, quercetin, 2,4-dichlorophenol and quinacrine dihydrochloride and toxic non-carcinogens, caffeine, cycloheximide and phenformin HCl. This study provides compelling evidence that carcinogens can successfully be distinguished from non-carcinogens using a holistic in vitro test system. Avoidance of misleading in vitro outcomes could lead to the reduction and replacement of animals in carcinogenicity testing.
Serotonin syndrome by drug interactions with linezolid: clues from pharmacovigilance-pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic analysis
Authors: Gatti Milo , Raschi Emanuel , De Ponti Fabrizio
Published: September 2020

Purpose

To characterize the post-marketing reporting of serotonin syndrome (SS) due to drug-drug interactions (DDIs) with linezolid and investigate the relationship with pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) properties of serotonergic agents.

Methods

We queried the worldwide FDA Adverse Event Reporting System to extract SS records due to DDIs where linezolid was reported as suspect. For each serotonergic agent concomitantly reported, proportion of SS reports and mean number of DDIs were calculated and three different “SS reporting zones” were created. Relevant PK (peak concentration, area under plasma concentration curve, volume of distribution (VD), and lipophilicity) and PD (values of binding affinity (Ki) and IC50 for serotonin reuptake transporter (SERT) and 5-HT2A) parameters were extracted for each serotonergic agent, and relevant PK/PD indexes were calculated to assess correlation with mean number of DDIs (PV index).

Results

Six hundred sixty-nine reports of SS mentioning linezolid were found, being linezolid-citalopram (N = 69; 10.3%) the most frequently DDI reported. Citalopram and methadone showed respectively the highest proportion of SS reports (0.28%) and the lowest mean number of DDIs (1.41). Citalopram, escitalopram, and methadone emerged as red (i.e., alert)-zone medications: they exhibited high lipophilicity and large VD (proxies of excellent central nervous system penetration) coupled with high potency. Among PK/PD indexes, a significant correlation with PV index was found for VD/Ki SERT ratio (p = 0.05).

Discussion

Our integrated approach suggests that linezolid is more likely to cause SS when co-administered with citalopram, escitalopram, and methadone, as inferred from their pharmacological properties. Proper management of SS should be tailored on a case-by-case basis.
Surface analysis of ureteral stent before and after implantation in the bodies of child patients
Authors: Arkusz Katarzyna , Pasik Kamila , Halinski Andrzej , Halinski Adam
Published: September 2020

The aim of this work was to determine which part of a double-J ureteral stent (DJ stents) showed the highest tendency to crystal, calculi, and biofilm deposition after ureterorenoscopic-lithotripsy procedure (URS-L) to treat calcium oxalate stones. Additionally, the mechanical strength and the stiffness of DJ stents were evaluated before and after exposure to urine. Obtained results indicated that the proximal (renal pelvis) and distal (urinary bladder) part is the most susceptible for post-URS-L fragments and urea salt deposition. Both, the outer and inner surfaces of the DJ ureteral stents were completely covered even after 7 days of implantation. Encrustation of DJ stents during a 31-day period results in reducing the Young’s modulus by 27–30%, which confirms the loss of DJ stent elasticity and increased probability of cracks or interruption. Performed analysis pointed to the need to use an antibacterial coating in the above-mentioned part of the ureteral stent to prolong its usage time and to prevent urinary tract infection.
Self‐Efficacy, Happiness and Psychological Well‐Being After Sleeve Gastrectomy
Authors: Sobhani Zahra , Amini Masood , Hosseini Seyed Vahid , Khazraei Samaneh , Khazraei Hajar
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is an effective treatment for patients with severe obesity and it leads to significant weight loss and promotes the quality of life. The aim of this study was evaluating the relationship between self‐efficacy, happiness and psychological well‐being after sleeve gastrectomy.

Methods

One hundred patients that underwent SG were participated in this study. They were asked to fill questionnaires 12 months after surgery. To assess self‐efficacy, Sherer and et al. scale, for happiness, oxford happiness scale and for psychological well‐being, Ryff scale were used. Regression analysis was used on psychological well‐being and happiness for evaluating the prediction of self‐efficacy.

Results

The results showed that 44% of happiness and 4% of psychological well‐being were determined by self‐efficacy after surgery.

Conclusion

Based on these findings, self‐efficacy is a significant predictor of psychological well‐being and happiness.
Clinical pre-test probability for obstructive coronary artery disease: insights from the European DISCHARGE pilot study
Authors: Feger Sarah , Ibes Paolo , Napp Adriane E. , Lembcke Alexander , Laule Michael , Dreger Henryk , Bokelmann Björn , Davis Gershan K. , Roditi Giles , Diez Ignacio , Schröder Stephen , Plank Fabian , Maurovich-Horvat Pal , Vidakovic Radosav , Veselka Josef , Ilnicka-Suckiel Malgorzata , Erglis Andrejs , Benedek Teodora , Rodriguez-Palomares José , Saba Luca , Kofoed Klaus F. , Gutberlet Matthias , Ađić Filip , Pietilä Mikko , Faria Rita , Vaitiekiene Audrone , Dodd Jonathan D. , Donnelly Patrick , Francone Marco , Kepka Cezary , Ruzsics Balazs , Müller-Nordhorn Jacqueline , Schlattmann Peter , Dewey Marc
Published: September 2020

Objectives

To test the accuracy of clinical pre-test probability (PTP) for prediction of obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) in a pan-European setting.

Methods

Patients with suspected CAD and stable chest pain who were clinically referred for invasive coronary angiography (ICA) or computed tomography (CT) were included by clinical sites participating in the pilot study of the European multi-centre DISCHARGE trial. PTP of CAD was determined using the Diamond-Forrester (D+F) prediction model initially introduced in 1979 and the updated D+F model from 2011. Obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) was defined by one at least 50% diameter coronary stenosis by both CT and ICA.

Results

In total, 1440 patients (654 female, 786 male) were included at 25 clinical sites from May 2014 until July 2017. Of these patients, 725 underwent CT, while 715 underwent ICA. Both prediction models overestimated the prevalence of obstructive CAD (31.7%, 456 of 1440 patients, PTP: initial D+F 58.9% (28.1–90.6%), updated D+F 47.3% (34.2–59.9%), both p < 0.001), but overestimation of disease prevalence was higher for the initial D+F (p < 0.001). The discriminative ability was higher for the updated D+F 2011 (AUC of 0.73 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.70–0.76 versus AUC of 0.70 CI 0.67–0.73 for the initial D+F; p < 0.001; odds ratio (or) 1.55 CI 1.29–1.86, net reclassification index 0.11 CI 0.05–0.16, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Clinical PTP calculation using the initial and updated D+F prediction models relevantly overestimates the actual prevalence of obstructive CAD in patients with stable chest pain clinically referred for ICA and CT suggesting that further refinements to improve clinical decision-making are needed.

Trial registration

https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02400229

Key Points

• Clinical pre-test probability calculation using the initial and updated D+F model overestimates the prevalence of obstructive CAD identified by ICA and CT.

• Overestimation of disease prevalence is higher for the initial D+F compared with the updated D+F.

• Diagnostic accuracy of PTP assessment varies strongly between different clinical sites throughout Europe.
Prognostic implications of pericardial and pleural effusion in patients with cardiac amyloidosis
Authors: Binder Christina , Duca Franz , Binder Thomas , Rettl René , Dachs Theresa Marie , Seirer Benjamin , Camuz Ligios Luciana , Dusik Fabian , Capelle Christophe , Qin Hong , Agis Hermine , Kain Renate , Hengstenberg Christian , Badr Eslam Roza , Bonderman Diana
Published: September 2020

Background

Pericardial and pleural effusion are common findings in patients with cardiac amyloidosis (CA). It is not known, whether effusions correlate with right ventricular (RV) function in these patients. Furthermore, data on the prognostic significance of pleural and pericardial effusion in CA is scarce.

Methods

Patients with transthyretin (ATTR) and light chain (AL) CA were included in a clinical registry. All patients underwent transthoracic echocardiography at baseline. The presence of pericardial and pleural effusion was determined in every patient. The clinical endpoint was defined as cardiac death or heart failure hospitalization.

Results

In total, 143 patients were analysed. Of these, 85 patients were diagnosed with ATTR and 58 patients with AL. Twenty-four patients presented with isolated pericardial effusion and 35 with isolated pleural effusion. In 19 patients, both pericardial and pleural effusion were found and in 65 patients no effusion was present at baseline. The presence of pleural effusion correlated well with poor RV function, measured by global RV free-wall strain (p = 0.007) in patients with AL, but not in ATTR. No such correlation could be found for pericardial effusion in either amyloidosis subtype. Patients with AL presenting with pleural effusion had worse outcomes compared to patients with pericardial effusion alone or no effusion at baseline. In the ATTR group, there was no difference in outcomes according to presence and type of effusion.

Conclusion

More than 50% of patients with CA presented with pleural and/or pericardial effusions. While pleural effusion was clearly associated with poor RV function in AL, we were not able to detect this association with pericardial effusion.
Enlarged vestibular aqueduct and Mondini Malformation: audiological, clinical, radiologic and genetic features
Authors: Forli F. , Lazzerini F. , Auletta G. , Bruschini L. , Berrettini S.
Published: September 2020

Purpose

When referring to enlarged vestibular aqueduct (EVA) we should differentiate between nonsyndromic enlarged vestibular aqueduct (NSEVA) and Pendred Syndrome (PDS), a disease continuum associated with pathogenic sequence variants of Pendrin’s Gene (SLC26A4) in about half of the cases. The study was aimed to analyse the clinical and audiological features of a monocentric cohort of Caucasian patients with NSEVA/PDS, their genetic assessment and morphological inner ear features.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the audiologic, genetic and anamnestic data of 66 patients with NSEVA/PDS followed by our audiology service.

Results

SLC26A4 mutations was significantly correlated with the presence of PDS rather than NSEVA (p < 0.019), with the expression of inner ear malformations (p < 0.001) and with different severity of hearing loss (p = 0.001). Furthermore, patients with PDS showed significantly worse pure tone audiometry (PTA) than patients with NSEVA (p = 0.001). Anatomically normal ears presented significantly better PTA than ears associated with Mondini Malformation or isolated EVA (p < 0.001), but no statistically significative differences have been observed in PTA between patients with Mondini Malformation and isolated EVA.

Conclusion

NSEVA/PDS must be investigated in all the congenital hearing loss, but also in progressive, late onset, stepwise forms. Even mixed or fluctuating hearing loss may constitute a sign of a NSEVA/PDS pathology. Our findings can confirm the important role of SLC26A4 mutations in determining the phenotype of isolated EVA/PDS, both for the type/degree of the malformation, the hearing impairment and the association with thyroid dysfunction.
Spleen contraction elevates hemoglobin concentration at high altitude during rest and exercise
Authors: Schagatay Erika , Lunde Alexander , Nilsson Simon , Palm Oscar , Lodin-Sundström Angelica
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Hypoxia and exercise are known to separately trigger spleen contraction, leading to release of stored erythrocytes. We studied spleen volume and hemoglobin concentration (Hb) during rest and exercise at three altitudes.

Methods

Eleven healthy lowlanders did a 5-min modified Harvard step test at 1370, 3700 and 4200 m altitude. Spleen volume was measured via ultrasonic imaging and capillary Hb with Hemocue during rest and after the step test, and arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2), heart rate (HR), expiratory CO2 (ETCO2) and respiratory rate (RR) across the test.

Results

Resting spleen volume was reduced with increasing altitude and further reduced with exercise at all altitudes. Mean (SE) baseline spleen volume at 1370 m was 252 (20) mL and after exercise, it was 199 (15) mL (P < 0.01). At 3700 m, baseline spleen volume was 231 (22) mL and after exercise 166 (12) mL (P < 0.05). At 4200 m baseline volume was 210 (23) mL and after exercise 172 (20) mL (P < 0.05). After 10 min, spleen volume increased to baseline at all altitudes (NS). Baseline Hb increased with altitude from 138.9 (6.1) g/L at 1370 m, to 141.2 (4.1) at 3700 m and 152.4 (4.0) at 4200 m (P < 0.01). At all altitudes Hb increased from baseline during exercise to 146.8 (5.7) g/L at 1370 m, 150.4 (3.8) g/L at 3700 m and 157.3 (3.8) g/L at 4200 m (all P < 0.05 from baseline). Hb had returned to baseline after 10 min rest at all altitudes (NS). The spleen-derived Hb elevation during exercise was smaller at 4200 m compared to 3700 m (P < 0.05). Cardiorespiratory variables were also affected by altitude during both rest and exercise.

Conclusions

The spleen contracts and mobilizes stored red blood cells during rest at high altitude and contracts further during exercise, to increase oxygen delivery to tissues during acute hypoxia. The attenuated Hb response to exercise at the highest altitude is likely due to the greater recruitment of the spleen reserve during rest, and that maximal spleen contraction is reached with exercise.
Arthroscopic isolated long head of biceps tenotomy in patients with degenerative rotator cuff tears: mid-term clinical results and prognostic factors
Authors: Veen Egbert J. D. , Boeddha Ashvin V. , Diercks Ronald L. , Kleinlugtenbelt Ydo V. , Landman Ellie B. M. , Koorevaar Cornelis T.
Published: September 2020

Introduction

The long head of biceps tendon is frequently involved in degenerative rotator cuff tears. Therefore, this study explored the clinical results of an isolated biceps tenotomy and identified prognostic factors for improvement in pain and function.

Materials and methods

Between 2008 and 2017, an arthroscopic isolated biceps tenotomy was performed on 64 patients with a degenerative rotator cuff tear (> 65 years). Primary outcome was patient-perceived improvement in pain and function. Potential prognostic factors for improvement in pain and function were identified.

Results

A perceived improvement in pain was reported in 78% of the patients at three months after surgery and in 75% at a mean follow-up of 4.2 years (1–7 years; n = 55). A perceived improvement in function was observed in 49% of patients at three months and in 76% of patients at follow-up. Patients with a preoperatively normal acromiohumeral distance (> 10 mm) reported an improvement in pain and function significantly more often. Retraction of the supraspinatus tendon Patte 3 was significantly associated with worse functional outcome.

Conclusions

A biceps tenotomy can be a reliable treatment option for patients with symptomatic degenerative cuff tears who fail conservative treatment and have a normal acromiohumeral distance (> 10 mm).
Hirntumoren auf den Punkt gebracht
Authors: Woehrer Adelheid
Published: September 2020

Hirntumoren sind insgesamt sehr seltene Krebserkrankungen, die jedoch aufgrund ihrer Lage in Gehirn und Rückenmark schwer zu diagnostizieren und therapieren sind. Die anatomische Lage führt nicht nur zu Unterschieden in der Präsentation und neurologischen Symptomatik, sie limitiert häufig die Möglichkeiten einer kompletten Resektion. Trotz adjuvanter Radio- und Chemotherapie ist die Prognose für Betroffene meist ungünstig. Basierend auf histologischen und molekularen Merkmalen unterscheidet man mehr als 120 Tumortypen, die in 4 Malignitätsgrade eingeteilt werden. Aus bislang unzureichend verstandenen Gründen treten bösartige Hirntumoren häufiger bei Männern und gutartige Hirntumoren häufiger bei Frauen auf.
Online remote-controlled and cost-effective fouling and clogging surveillance of a groundwater heat pump system
Authors: Gjengedal Sondre , Stenvik Lars A. , Ramstad Randi K. , Ulfsnes Jan I. , Hilmo Bernt O. , Frengstad Bjørn S.
Published: September 2020

Fouling and clogging of groundwater wells and heat exchangers are among the major operational challenges for groundwater heat pump (GWHP) and aquifer thermal energy storage (ATES) systems. This article presents the application of a step-test surveillance procedure developed for early detection of clogging in distinct parts of the GWHP system, tested at Lena Terrace in Melhus Norway. Three versions of the test procedure are presented and demonstrate that the test can be performed with a minimum of four steps, each of 15-min duration, while the GWHP system is actively producing heat. The results prove that the surveillance test can detect changes in the hydraulic resistance of the groundwater circuit and locate clogging problems within all of the relevant system components in the groundwater circuit simultaneously. At the Lena Terrace GWHP system, these tests indicate a gradual increase of hydraulic resistance with time, which verify that clogging issues are continuously developing in the injection well, in the production well, and in the groundwater heat exchanger. Cleaning of the heat exchanger was then performed. This increased the pumping capacity by 8.3% points, but continuous clogging of the injection well and the production well necessitates further maintenance to ensure a reliable operation. It is demonstrated that multidisciplinary competence and experience with GWHP-systems, aquifers, and groundwater wells are needed for the evaluation of the results. These results can therefore serve as a reference for other GWHP systems with similar design configurations.
Partial rewarding during clicker training does not improve naïve dogs’ learning speed and induces a pessimistic-like affective state
Authors: Cimarelli Giulia , Schoesswender Julia , Vitiello Roberta , Huber Ludwig , Virányi Zsófia
Published: September 2020

Clicker training is considered a welfare-friendly way of teaching novel behaviors to animals because it is mostly based on the positive reinforcement. However, trainers largely vary in their way of applying this training technique. According to the most, a reward (e.g., food) should follow every click, while others claim that dogs learn faster when the reward is sometimes omitted. One argument against the use of partial rewarding is that it induces frustration in the animal, raising concerns over its welfare consequences. Here, we investigated the effect of partial rewarding not only on training efficacy (learning speed), but also on dogs’ affective state. We clicker-trained two groups of dogs: one group received food after every click while the other group received food only 60% of the time. Considering previous evidence of the influencing role of personality on reactions to frustrated expectations, we included measurements of dogs’ emotional reactivity. We compared the number of trials needed to reach a learning criterion and their pessimistic bias in a cognitive bias test. No difference between the two groups emerged in terms of learning speed; however, dogs that were partially rewarded during clicker training showed a more pessimistic bias than dogs that were continuously rewarded. Generally, emotional reactivity was positively associated with a more pessimistic bias. Partial rewarding does not improve training efficacy, but it is associated with a negatively valenced affective state, bringing support to the hypothesis that partial rewarding might negatively affect dogs’ welfare.
Survival during the pre-fledging period rather than during post-fledging drives variation in local recruitment of an endangered migratory shorebird, the Southern Dunlin Calidris alpina schinzii
Authors: Pakanen Veli-Matti , Hagstedt Robin , Pauliny Angela , Blomqvist Donald
Published: September 2020

The declines in wet-grassland breeding shorebird populations are considered to mainly result from changes in reproduction. While there is plenty of information on nest survival, little reliable information exists on local recruitment due to confounding effects of permanent emigration. Furthermore, few studies have been able to study the roles of pre- and post-fledging survival on local recruitment. Therefore, it is unclear whether local recruitment of young reflects conditions at the breeding sites or at non-breeding sites. We studied an isolated population of the endangered Southern Dunlin (Calidris alpina schinzii) breeding on the west coast of Sweden to examine (1) brood survival (probability of at least one chick fledging) by following broods fates and (2) local recruitment (survival from hatching to 1 year old) using capture-recapture data. We then examined how much of the annual variation in juvenile survival was explained by variation in brood survival. Brood survival was on average 0.58 (annual range 0.08–1.00) and explained 64% of variation in annual local recruitment. Still local recruitment was rather high for a shorebird (0.17, SE = 0.023), which reflects the isolated nature of the study population. Our results suggest that local recruitment seems to be mainly constrained by chick survival during the pre-fledging period. Therefore, management of breeding sites leading to increased brood survival, e.g., reducing predation on chicks, should have strong impacts on local recruitment and local population growth.
Mechanics-based fragility curves for Italian residential URM buildings
Authors: Donà Marco , Carpanese Pietro , Follador Veronica , Sbrogiò Luca , da Porto Francesca
Published: September 2020

Seismic risk assessment at the territorial level is now widely recognised as essential for countries with intense seismic activity, such as Italy. Academia is called to give its contribution in order to synergically deepen the knowledge about the various components of this risk, starting from the complex evaluation of vulnerability of the built heritage. In line with this, a mechanics-based seismic fragility model for Italian residential masonry buildings was developed and presented in this paper. This model is based on the classification of the building stock in macro-typologies, defined by age of construction and number of storeys, which being information available at national level, allow simulating damage scenarios and carrying out risk analyses on a territorial scale. The model is developed on the fragility of over 500 buildings, sampled according to national representativeness criteria and analysed through the Vulnus_4.0 software. The calculated fragility functions were extended on the basis of a reference model available in the literature, which provides generic fragilities for the EMS98 vulnerability classes, thus obtaining a fragility model defined on the five EMS98 damage states. Lastly, to assess the reliability of the proposed model, this was used to simulate damage scenarios due to the 2009 L’Aquila earthquake. Overall, the comparison between model results and observed damage showed a good fit, proving the model effectiveness.
Diagnostic analysis of new quantitative parameters of low-dose dynamic myocardial perfusion imaging with CZT SPECT in the detection of suspected or known coronary artery disease
Authors: Pang Zekun , Wang Jiao , Li Shuai , Chen Yue , Wang Xiaojie , Li Jianming
Published: September 2020

The goal of this study is to explore and evaluate the diagnostic values of myocardial blood flow (MBF), myocardial flow reserve (MFR) and relative flow reserve (RFR) obtained with low-dose dynamic CZT SPECT for patients with suspected or known coronary artery disease (CAD). Fifty-seven consecutive patients who underwent low-dose dynamic CZT SPECT and CAG were enrolled. MBF, MFR and RFR were calculated on the vessel level with dedicated quantitative software, and the difference and correlation of each parameter was compared according to the reference standard of stenosis ≥ 50% or ≥ 75% on CAG, respectively. ROC curves were made by stress MBF (sMBF), rest MBF (rMBF), MFR and RFR. The optimal cut-off values and corresponding diagnostic efficacy were obtained and compared with each other. Results indicated that when stenosis ≥ 50% or ≥ 75% on CAG was used as the reference standard at the vessel level, there was no statistically significant difference in rMBF between the negative group and the positive group (P > 0.05), and the sMBF and MFR in positive groups were significantly lower than that in the negative group (all P < 0.05). There was a moderate to significant correlation between sMBF and MFR, sMBF and RFR, MFR and RFR (all P < 0.0001). These results indicate that low-dose dynamic CZT SPECT imaging can easily obtain the sMBF, MFR and RFR, and there is a good correlation among the three parameters, which has a certain diagnostic value for patients with suspected or known CAD, and is a useful supplement to the conventional qualitative or semi-quantitative diagnostic methods.
Risk of extreme high fatalities due to weather and climate hazards and its connection to large-scale climate variability
Authors: Franzke Christian L. E. , Torelló i Sentelles Herminia
Published: September 2020

Weather and climate hazards cause too many fatalities each year. These weather and climate hazards are projected to increase in frequency and intensity due to global warming. Here, we use a disaster database to investigate continentally aggregated fatality data for trends. We also examine whether modes of climate variability affect the propensity of fatalities. Furthermore, we quantify fatality risk by computing effective return periods which depend on modes of climate variability. We find statistically significant increasing trends for heat waves and floods for worldwide aggregated data. Significant trends occur in the number of fatalities in Asia where fatalities due to heat waves and floods are increasing, while storm-related fatalities are decreasing. However, when normalized by population size, the trends are no longer significant. Furthermore, the number of fatalities can be well described probabilistically by an extreme value distribution, a generalized Pareto distribution (GPD). Based on the GPD, we evaluate covariates which affect the number of fatalities aggregated over all hazard types. For this purpose, we evaluate combinations of modes of climate variability and socio-economic indicators as covariates. We find no evidence for a significant direct impact from socio-economic indicators; however, we find significant evidence for the impact from modes of climate variability on the number of fatalities. The important modes of climate variability affecting the number of fatalities are tropical cyclone activity, modes of sea surface temperature and atmospheric teleconnection patterns. This offers the potential of predictability of the number of fatalities given that most of these climate modes are predictable on seasonal to inter-annual time scales.
Modified method for effective primary vascular smooth muscle progenitor cell culture from peripheral blood
Authors: Seong Jin-Hee , Song Yi-Sun , Joo Hyun-Woo , Park In-Hwa , Shen Guang-Yin , Shin Na-Kyoung , Lee A-Hyeon , Kwon Amy M. , Lee Yonggu , Kim Hyuck , Kim Kyung-Soo
Published: September 2020

In previous studies, vascular smooth muscle progenitor cells (vSMPCs) isolated from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were cultured using medium containing platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) for 4 weeks. However, this method requires long culture periods of up to 4 weeks and yields low cell counts. Therefore, we proposed the modified method to improve the cell yield and purity and to reduce the cell culture period. PBMCs were isolated from human peripheral blood and cultured by the conventional method using medium containing PDGF-BB alone or the modified method using medium containing PDGF-BB, basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), and insulin-transferrin-selenium ITS for 4 weeks. The purity of vSMPCs was analyzed for the expression of a- smooth muscle actin (SMA) by flow cytometry and significantly higher in the modified method than conventional methods at the 1st and 2nd weeks. Also, mRNA expression of a-SMA by real-time PCR was significantly higher in the modified method than conventional method at the 2 weeks. The yield of vSMPCs by trypan blue exclusion assay was significantly higher in the modified method than conventional method at the 1st, 2nd and 3rd weeks. The primary culture using the modified method with PDGF-BB, bFGF, and ITS not only improved cell purity and yield, but also shortened the culture period, compared to the conventional culture method for vSMPCs. The modified method will be a time-saving and useful tool in various studies related to vascular pathology.
Gender Differences in Risk-Taking and Sensation-Seeking Behavior: Empirical Evidence from “ExtremeSports”
Authors: Frick Bernd
Published: September 2020

Do men and women differ with respect to sensation-seeking behavior, an extreme form of risk preferences? In this paper, I use data from two different high-risk sports—cliff diving and free diving—to test for possible differences between the genders. My findings suggest that, first, women are under-represented in both sports, but that, second, for those who self-select into these occupations, no differences with respect to sensation-seeking behavior can be found between men and women.
Handling Lithium-Ion Batteries in Electric Vehicles: Preventing and Recovering from Hazardous Events
Authors: Bisschop Roeland , Willstrand Ola , Rosengren Max
Published: September 2020

The demand for lithium-ion battery powered road vehicles continues to increase around the world. As more of these become operational across the globe, their involvement in traffic accidents and incidents is likely to rise. This can damage the lithium-ion battery and subsequently pose a threat to occupants and responders as well as those involved in vehicle recovery and salvage operations. The project this paper is based on aimed to alleviate such concerns. To provide a basis for fire safety systems to be applied to damaged EVs, hazards have been identified and means for preventing and controlling lithium-ion battery fires, including preventive measures during workshop and salvage activities were studied. Tests were also performed with fixed fire suppression systems applying suppressant inside traction batteries which showed to improve their safety.
Renal protection: a leading mechanism for cardiovascular benefit in patients treated with SGLT2 inhibitors
Authors: Margonato Davide , Galati Giuseppe , Mazzetti Simone , Cannistraci Rosa , Perseghin Gianluca , Margonato Alberto , Mortara Andrea
Published: September 2020

Initially developed as glucose-lowering drugs, sodium-glucose co-transporter type 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) have demonstrated to be effective agents for the risk reduction of cardiovascular (CV) events in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Subsequently, data has emerged showing a significant CV benefit in patients treated with SGLT2i regardless of diabetes status. Renal protection has been initially evaluated in CV randomized trials only as secondary endpoints; nonetheless, the positive results gained have rapidly led to the evaluation of nephroprotection as primary outcome in the CREDENCE trial. Different renal and vascular mechanisms can account for the CV and renal benefits enlightened in recent literature. As clinical guidelines rapidly evolve and the role of SGLT2i appears to become pivotal for CV, T2DM, and kidney disease management, in this review, we analyze the renal effects of SGLT2, the benefits derived from its inhibition, and how this may result in the multiple CV and renal benefits evidenced in recent clinical trials.
Effects of negative social information on the willingness to support charities: the moderating role of regulatory focus
Authors: Le Nhat Quang , Supphellen Magne , Bagozzi Richard P.
Published: September 2020

Donation campaigns that have an unsuccessful start often trigger negative social information in the social and mass media (e.g., “few others have donated so far”). Little research exists to shed light on the effects of such information in the context of donations. Across three studies involving different causes and different channels of communication, we find harmful effects of negative social information on the willingness to donate among prevention-focused consumers but tendencies of positive effects for consumers with a promotion focus. We identify response efficacy as a mediator of the harmful effect for prevention-focused consumers. This finding suggests that social proof theory is not sufficient to explain the harmful effect of negative social information. Alternative mediators are tested and rejected. The findings imply that an effective strategy to avoid harmful effects of negative social information is to trigger a promotion focus in target group members and communicate facts about charity effectiveness.
The Governance of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS): Aviation Law, Human Rights, and the Free Movement of Data in the EU
Authors: Pagallo Ugo , Bassi Eleonora
Published: September 2020

The paper deals with the governance of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) in European law. Three different kinds of balance have been struck between multiple regulatory systems, in accordance with the sector of the governance of UAS which is taken into account. The first model regards the field of civil aviation law and its European Union (EU)’s regulation: the model looks like a traditional mix of top-down regulation and soft law. The second model concerns the EU general data protection law, the GDPR, which has set up a co-regulatory framework summed up with the principle of accountability also, but not only, in the field of drones. The third model of governance has been adopted by the EU through methods of legal experimentation and coordination mechanisms for UAS. The overall aim of the paper is to elucidate the ways in which such three models interact, insisting on differences and similarities with other technologies (e.g. self-driving cars), and further legal systems (e.g. the US).