bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of density‐driven flow on the transport of high‐concentration solutes in the hyporheic zone
Authors: Jin Guangqiu , Hao Yongfei , Wei Jie , Yang Yihang , Shen Xiaoxiao , Tang Hongwu , Li Ling
Published: October 2020

In this study, both laboratory experiments and numerical simulations were conducted to investigate the effect of density‐driven flow on the transport of high‐concentration pollutants in the hyporheic zone. The results show that the density gradient can change the flow of pore water and the strong density‐driven flow can lead to an unstable flow, which increases the effect of preferential flow and thus causes the appearance of solute fingers in the hyporheic zone. Notably, these solute fingers become more obvious with the increase of depth. The appearance of solute fingers depends on the relative strength of the pumping exchange and density gradient, which are represented by the dimensionless number M* and N* respectively. Finger flows appear near the interface when M* is less than 0.5 N*. This study may contribute to better understanding the transport and destination of solutes and thus may provide some insights into the assessment on pollution incidents.
Current account and financial reforms: Evidence from sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Onwuka Kelvin , Chukwu Anayochukwu Basil , Agbanike Tobechi Faith
Published: October 2020

This study investigates the relationship between financial deregulation and current account imbalances in a panel of 14 Sub‐Saharan African countries over the period 1990–2015. While there are plethora of studies linking financial (de)regulation and economic crisis, the relationship between financial deregulation and current account imbalances has received little attention to date in the growth literature. Relying on the Classical‐Keynesian theoretic perspective, the study adopted the fixed‐effects panel least square estimation technique to determine the effects of financial reforms on current account balance. Our results are robust, suggesting a significant but negative relationship between financial reforms and current account balance. The results further suggest that factors that positively affect current account balance include terms of trade, inflation rate, gross domestic savings, per capita income, and net foreign assets. A policy shift towards improving terms of trade, and gross domestic savings, through expansion in aggregate output and devaluation of the domestic currency will increase internal market competitiveness within the region.
The correlation between undergraduate student diversity and the representation of women of color faculty in engineering
Authors: Main Joyce B. , Tan Li , Cox Monica F. , McGee Ebony O. , Katz Andrew
Published: October 2020

Background

Despite the critical role of faculty diversity in the persistence and academic experiences of undergraduate students as well as in the development of engineering innovations, women of color (WoC) faculty are still underrepresented in engineering programs across the United States.

Purpose/Hypothesis

This study identifies whether the demographic composition of undergraduate engineering students is correlated with the representation of WoC faculty. It also highlights the institutional‐ and departmental‐level factors that contribute to the race–gender diversification of the engineering professoriate.

Design/Method

Informed by organizational demography as the theoretical framework, the methods include linear and logit regression analyses. Data come from the American Society for Engineering Education, the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, and the American Community Survey, and include engineering departmental‐level observations across 345 institutions over 12 years.

Results

Engineering departments that award more bachelor's degrees to women African American/Black undergraduate students are more likely to employ relatively more African American/Black women faculty. This positive relationship is also found among Asian Americans and Hispanics/Latinas.

Conclusions

Research findings demonstrate the relationship between engineering undergraduate composition, as well as other departmental‐ and institutional‐level factors, and the prevalence of WoC faculty. The findings highlight important areas for stakeholders and academic administrators to consider when developing strategies and programs to diversify the composition of engineering faculty.
Pattern of local recurrence after curative resection in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma according to the initial location of the tumor
Authors: Kim Jae Ri , Kim Hongbeom , Kwon Wooil , Jang Jin‐Young , Kim Sun‐Whe
Published: October 2020

Background/Purpose

The aim of the present study was to identify the types of recurrence in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and discover the frequent location of the local recurrence.

Methods

This study included 361 patients with PDAC who underwent curative‐intent surgery between 2007‐2014.

Results

Among 361 patients, 75.1% (n = 271) developed recurrence during the follow‐up period. The 5‐year overall survival rate of recurred patients was 8.3%. The patterns of recurrence were classified as local (17.7%), systemic (62.0%), and loco‐systemic (20.3%). According to the preoperative tumor locations, patients with uncinate and head cancer showed higher rates of local recurrence than those with body and tail cancer (47.8% vs 17.2%, P < .001). When comparing uncinate and head cancer only, patients with uncinate cancer had much more frequent local recurrence around the superior mesenteric artery/vein (M zone) than around the hepatoduodenal ligament/common hepatic artery (H zone). Patients with head cancer had a higher rate of local recurrence in the H zone (H zone vs M zone; 53.5% vs 81.4% in uncinate cancer, P = .001; 66.7% vs 44.4% in head cancer, P = .056).

Conclusion

Discovering the patterns of recurrence and frequent locations of recurrence may assist in local control as well as in the development of a customized individual approach for each patient.
Clinical Impact of Prescribed Doses of Nutrients for Patients Exclusively Receiving Parenteral Nutrition in Japanese Hospitals: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Sasabuchi Yusuke , Ono Sachiko , Kamoshita Satoru , Tsuda Tomoe , Kuroda Akiyoshi
Published: October 2020

Background

In patients receiving parenteral nutrition (PN), the association between nutrition achievement in accordance with nutrition guidelines and outcomes remains unclear. Our purpose was to assess the association between nutrition achievement and clinical outcomes, including in‐hospital mortality, activity of daily living (ADL), and readmission.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, data were extracted from an inpatient medical‐claims database at 380 acute care hospitals. This study included patients who underwent central venous catheter insertion between January 2009 and December 2018. Patients were classified into 3 groups: (1) target‐not‐achieved; (2) target‐partially‐achieved; and (3) target‐achieved. The target doses of energy, amino acids, and lipid were defined as ≥20 kcal/kg/day, ≥1.0 g/kg/day, and ≥2.5 g/day, respectively. To examine the effect of nutrition achievement on outcomes, a multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed.

Results

A total of 54,687 patients were included; of these, 21,383 patients were in the target‐not‐achieved group, 29,610 patients were in the target‐partially‐achieved group, and 3694 patients were in the target‐achieved group. The adjusted odds ratio (OR) (95% CI) for in‐hospital mortality was 0.69 (0.66–0.72) in the target‐partially‐achieved group and 0.47 (0.43–0.52) in the target‐achieved group with reference to the target‐not‐achieved group. The adjusted ORs for deteriorated ADL was 0.93 (0.85–1.01) in the target‐partially‐achieved group and 0.77 (0.65–0.92) in the target‐achieved group with reference to the target‐not‐achieved group. Readmission was not associated with nutrition achievement.

Conclusion

In‐hospital mortality was lower and deteriorated ADL was suppressed in patients whose PN management was in accordance with the nutrition guidelines.
Curbing the Cough: Multimodal Treatments for Neurogenic Cough: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Wamkpah Nneoma S. , Peterson Andrew M. , Lee Jake J. , Jia Lena , Hardi Angela , Stoll Carolyn , Huston Molly
Published: October 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

Neurogenic cough affects 11% of Americans and causes significant detriment to quality of life. With the advent of novel therapies, the objective of this review is to determine how procedural therapies (e.g., superior laryngeal nerve block) compare to other established pharmacologic and non‐pharmacologic treatments for neurogenic cough.

Methods

With the assistance of a medical librarian, a systematic review was performed using PICOS (patients, interventions, comparator, outcome, study design) format: adults with neurogenic cough receiving any pharmacologic or non‐pharmacologic treatment for neurogenic cough compared to adults with neurogenic cough receiving any other relevant interventions, or treated as single cohorts, assessed with cough‐specific quality of life outcomes, in all study designs and case series with ≥ 10 cases. Case reports, review articles, non‐human studies, non‐English language articles, and unavailable full‐text articles were excluded.

Results

There were 2408 patients with neurogenic cough in this review, treated with medical therapy (77%), speech therapy (19%), both medical and speech therapy (1%), and procedural therapy (3%). The included studies ranged from low to intermediate quality. Overall, most interventions demonstrated successful improvement in cough. However, the heterogeneity of included study designs precluded direct comparisons between intervention types.

Conclusion

This meta‐analysis compared various treatments for neurogenic cough. Procedural therapy should be considered in the armamentarium of neurogenic cough treatments, particularly in patients refractory to, or intolerant of, the side effects of medical therapy. Lastly, this review illuminates key areas for improving neurogenic cough diagnosis, such as strict adherence to diagnostic and treatment guidelines, sophisticated reflux testing, and standardized, consistent outcome reporting. Laryngoscope, 132:107–123, 2022
Microbial enzymatic assays in environmental water samples: Impact of inner filter effect and substrate concentrations
Authors: Urvoy Marion , Labry Claire , Delmas Daniel , Creac'h Layla , L'Helguen Stéphane
Published: October 2020

As microbial enzymatic activities initiate the mineralization of organic matter through the microbial loop, it is important to correctly measure those activities and be able to perform inter‐study comparisons. Enzymatic activity assays are typically carried out using fluorogenic substrate analogs, such as 4‐methylumbelliferone and 7‐amino‐4‐methylcoumarin linked to sugar monomers, phosphate group, or amino acids. However, methodological divergences can be found in aquatic science literature, potentially leading to misestimated activities. To highlight some of those methodological key points, we first addressed the potential occurrence of an inner filter effect (IFE), a fluorometric artifact that affects the relationship between fluorophore concentration and fluorescence intensity, due to absorption of exciting or emitted light. It has never been considered in the context of environmental water studies before, despite significantly affecting measured activities. IFE occurred with two out of three tested spectrofluorometers when assaying proteases, although no IFE was detected for phosphatase assays. We also evaluated how substrate concentration ranges might affect kinetic parameters estimation, revealing that a many existing studies might use insufficient maximum substrate concentration. Finally, for single substrate concentration assays, we argued for the use of saturating substrate concentration, as naturally occurring substrates might compete with the fluorogenic analog at trace level. The amendment of a molecule mimicking natural substrates generated a significant inhibition of natural seawater phosphatases and proteases assayed with trace concentrations of fluorogenic substrate, while almost no inhibition occurred at higher concentrations. Those key points need to be addressed in order to assess enzymatic rates and allow inter‐study comparison.
On the spaces of Cesàro absolutelyp‐summable, null, and convergent sequences
Authors: Roopaei Hadi , Başar Feyzi
Published: October 2020

In this paper, we investigate some properties of the domainsc0(Cn),c(Cn), andℓp(Cn)with0 < p < 1of the Cesàro matrix of ordernin the classical spacesc0,c, andℓpof null, convergent, and absolutelyp‐summable sequences, respectively, and compute theα‐,β‐, andγ‐duals of these spaces. We characterize the classes of infinite matrices from the spaceℓp(Cn)to the spacesℓ∞,c, andc0and from a normed sequence spaces to the sequence spacesc0(Cn),c(Cn), andℓp(Cn). Moreover, we compute the lower bound of operators fromℓpintoℓp(Cn), fromℓp(Cn)intoℓpand fromℓp(Cn)into itself.
Indication of CsPbBr3 inclusions in zero dimensional Cs4PbBr6 perovskite single crystals by alkylammonium post‐treatment
Authors: Aharon Sigalit , Etgar Lioz
Published: October 2020

The zero‐dimensional Cs4PbBr6 perovskites are highly emissive materials that demonstrated an effective potential in light emitting applications. There is an on‐going debate regarding the origin of its strong and green photoluminescence, which is not in line with the expectedly wide band‐gap energy of the strongly confined material. Herein, using mortar and pestle, we react Cs4PbBr6 single crystals with methanol solutions of ammonium barrier molecules, and affect their optical and compositional properties. The ammonium barrier molecules react with the 0D Cs4PbBr6 crystals, and lead to a structural transformation of the CsPbBr3 inclusions into two‐dimensional perovskite within the 0D phase of the Cs4PbBr6. In addition, the photoluminescence quantum yield was increased as a result of the post treatment. This can explain the origin of the strong, green photoluminescence from these crystals. This novel post‐treatment affects the properties of the CsPbBr3 inclusions in Cs4PbBr6 crystals by a straightforward process, which can be utilized to another 0D perovskite.
Incontinence in frail elderly persons: Report of the 6th International Consultation on Incontinence
Authors: Gibson William , Johnson Theodore , Kirschner‐Hermanns Ruth , Kuchel George , Markland Alayne , Orme Susie , Ostaszkiewicz Joan , Szonyi George , Wyman Jean , Wagg Adrian
Published: October 2020

Background

Evidence‐based guidelines for the management of frail older persons with urinary incontinence are rare. Those produced by the International Consultation on Incontinence represent an authoritative set of recommendations spanning all aspects of management.

Aims

To summarize the available evidence relating to the management of urinary incontinence in frail older people published since the 5th International Consultation on Incontinence.

Materials and Methods

A series of systematic reviews and evidence updates were performed by members of the working group to update the 2012 recommendations.

Results

Along with the revision of the treatment algorithm and accompanying text, there have been significant advances in several areas of the management of lower urinary tract symptoms in frail older people.

Discussion

The committee continues to note the relative paucity of data concerning frail older persons and draw attention to knowledge gaps and research opportunities. Clinicians treating older people with lower urinary tract symptoms should use the available evidence from studies of older people combined with careful extrapolation of those data from younger subjects. Due consideration to an individual's frailty and wishes is crucial.
Association between NT‐proBNP and nocturia among community‐dwelling elderly males and females: A cross‐sectional analysis of the HEIJO‐KYO study
Authors: Okumura Kazuki , Obayashi Kenji , Tai Yoshiaki , Yamagami Yuki , Negoro Hiromitsu , Kataoka Hiroshi , Kurumatani Norio , Saeki Keigo
Published: October 2020

Aims

To investigate the association between B‐type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and nocturia among community‐dwelling males and females.

Methods

A total of 1096 participants (mean age 71.9 ± 7.1 years, 518 [47.2%] males) were included in the study. The number of nocturnal voids was recorded in a self‐reported urination diary, and nocturia was defined as two or more voids per night. Daytime serum concentration of the N‐terminal fragment of BNP precursor (NT‐proBNP) was measured. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the association between NT‐proBNP and nocturia.

Results

Nocturia was observed in 23.5% of females and 37.1% of males. Higher NT‐proBNP (log pg/ml) was associated with nocturia in both gender groups (females: odds ratio [OR]: 1.67, 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.21–2.34, p = .002; males: OR: 1.26, 95% CI, 1.01–1.59, p = .046), independent of confounding variables including night‐time blood pressure, mean voided volume, and chronic kidney disease. Although the increase in prevalence of nocturia with higher NT‐proBNP was equivalent in both genders, some effect of gender on the relationship between NT‐proBNP and nocturia was observed (p = .037). Nocturnal urine volume was also significantly and independently associated with NT‐proBNP level (females: β = 32.9 ml, 95% CI, 5.63–60.2, p = .018; males: β = 34.6 ml, 95% CI, 9.40–59.9, p = .007).

Conclusions

This study revealed higher serum NT‐proBNP is significantly and independently associated with the prevalence of nocturia in both males and females. This is an exploratory cross‐sectional study and the analyses are post hoc, so further research works are needed to clarify the causality and clinical value.
FRACPRED‐2D‐PRM: A Fraction Prediction Algorithm‐Assisted 2D Liquid Chromatography‐Based Parallel Reaction Monitoring‐Mass Spectrometry Approach for Measuring Low‐Abundance Proteins in Human Plasma
Authors: Shi Jian , Xiao Jingcheng , Li Jiapeng , Wang Xinwen , Her Lucy , Sorensen Matthew J. , Zhu Hao‐Jie
Published: October 2020

Multidimensional fractionation‐based enrichment methods improve the sensitivity of proteomic analysis for low‐abundance proteins. However, a major limitation of conventional multidimensional proteomics is the extensive labor and instrument time required for analyzing many fractions obtained from the first dimension separation. Here, a fraction prediction algorithm‐assisted 2D LC‐based parallel reaction monitoring‐mass spectrometry (FRACPRED‐2D‐PRM) approach for measuring low‐abundance proteins in human plasma is presented. Plasma digests are separated by the first dimension high‐pH RP‐LC with data‐dependent acquisition (DDA). The FRACPRED algorithm is then usedto predict the retention times of undetectable target peptides according to those of other abundant plasma peptides during the first dimension separation. Fractions predicted to contain target peptides are analyzed by the second dimension low‐pH nano RP‐LC PRM. The accuracy and robustness of fraction prediction with the FRACPRED algorithm are demonstrated by measuring two low‐abundance proteins, aldolase B and carboxylesterase 1, in human plasma. The FRACPRED‐2D‐PRM proteomics approach demonstrates markedly improved efficiency and sensitivity over conventional 2D‐LC proteomics assays. It is expected that this approach will be widely used in the study of low‐abundance proteins in plasma and other complex biological samples.
The 26th Annual Prostate Cancer Foundation Scientific Retreat Report
Authors: Miyahira Andrea K. , Soule Howard R.
Published: October 2020

Background

The 26th Annual Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF) Scientific Retreat was held from October 24–26, 2019 in Carlsbad, CA.

Methods

The Annual PCF Scientific Retreat is a global scientific research conference that focuses on the most promising and interesting new research in the prostate cancer field, and topics arising from other fields that have the potential to impact and advance prostate cancer research and clinical care.

Results

The primary topic areas addressed at the 2019 PCF Retreat included: (i) new insights into prostate cancer biology and treatment; (ii) new drugs and drug targets in prostate cancer; (iii) advances in prostate cancer genomics; (iv) lessons from the multi‐arm, multistage randomized phase 3 STAMPEDE trial; (v) advances in immunotherapy for prostate cancer; (vi) factors contributing to prostate cancer racial disparities; (vii) treatment‐associated small‐cell/neuroendocrine prostate cancer (t‐SCNC); (viii) artificial intelligence and machine learning in cancer research and development; (ix) population science research on prostate cancer; and (x) prostate cancer research in the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Conclusions

This article reviews the presentations from the 2019 PCF Scientific Retreat. We hope that this knowledge will accelerate research leading to new understandings of prostate cancer biology and improve treatments for patients with prostate cancer.
Validation of BLEVE events using the hybrid code exploCFD
Authors: Abdel‐Jawad Madhat
Published: October 2020

A hybrid (analytical‐numerical) method for the modeling of BLEVE events seems the most realistic approach given the complex coupled physical models required for a purely numerical approach. The code exploCFD employs just such a method for the calculation of events involving multiple types of explosions including BLEVEs whereby the results from an analytical model are fed into a CFD code to model the wider domain. The CFD code is configured as a 2D solver hence the methodology carries some uncertainty. So how do the results from a hybrid method compare with those obtained from experiments? Here we look at the BLEVE experiments of Birk and Vandersteen. We show that despite simplifications inherent in the methodology, which include the combining separate discrete events such as initial tank rupture, catastrophic failure and mixing and subsequent ignition into one equivalent event, exploCFD produces results which are in good agreement with the experimental peak pressures and impulses. The peak pressure is captured at locations 10, 20, 30, and 40 m from tank side and the impulse values also show good agreement. Surprisingly, the time histories also show better than expected agreement.
Feasibility of robotic‐assisted atrial septal defect repair in a 6‐year‐old patient
Authors: Güllü Ahmet Ümit , Şenay Şahin , Ersin Egemen , Demirhisar Önder , Kocyigit Muharrem , Alhan Cem
Published: October 2020

Background

The feasibility, safety and advantages of minimally invasive or robotic repair of atrial septal defect (ASD) in adults were reported previously. However, there is limited data for the application of these systems in paediatric patients. Although current robotic systems still have large instruments for surgical repair in children, some appropriate patients may benefit from this technology.

Method

A 6‐year‐old child with ASD underwent robotic assistant repair via Da‐Vinci Robotic Systems. Venous cannulation was achieved by internal jugular and femoral veins (10F–14F) and arterial cannulation was performed via femoral artery under transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) guidance (10F). A 3 cm incision was made in the right fourth intercostal space, used for working and the camera port in the same time. The ports were placed considering not to damage the potential developing breast tissue. After the port implantation (8F) and cardiac arrest, the ASD repair was completed with primary closure technique.

Result

The perioperative period was uneventful and the patient was discharged from hospital 5 days after surgery.

Conclusion

ASD closure with robotic assistant was achieved in a large enough sized paediatric patient. With the development of thinner and shorter robotic arms, it will be possible to use robotic assistance more common during the repair of congenital heart diseases.
Modification of hydroxyl silicates and its improvement on tribological properties of bismaleimides resin
Authors: Jia Yuan , Liu Zhen , Li Beibei , Yang Ju‐xiang
Published: October 2020

In order to improve the dispersion and compatibility of the hydroxyl silicates (HNSs) in organic resin matrix, the HNSs were first functionalized by N‐(2‐aminoethyl)‐3‐aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (KH‐792) via a hydrolysis process; thus, the imino and amidogen groups can be grafted on the surface of HNSs (NH2‐HNSs). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy are employed to characterize the chemical structure and surface morphology changes on the surface of HNSs after modified. The modified NH2‐HNSs were then used as fillers to add into bismaleimide (BMI) to prepare the new NH2‐HNSs/BMI composites. The influences of NH2‐HNSs content on the mechanical, tribological, and thermal properties of BMI resin were also researched. The results showed that adding NH2‐HNSs with appropriate content (6.0 wt%) could significantly improve the comprehensive properties of the NH2‐HNSs/BMI composites. It can be observed from the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) on the wear surface of the materials that, the wear mechanism of the BMI resin was converted from adhesive wear to abrasive wear after the addition of NH2‐HNSs. The improvement of tribological and mechanical properties can be mainly attributed to the chemical reaction between BMI and NH2‐HNSs.
Triple Helix as a Strategic Tool to Fast-Track Climate Change Adaptation in Rural Kenya: Case Study of Marsabit County
Authors: Silva Izael Da , Bricca Daniele , Micangeli Andrea , Fioriti Davide , Cherubini Paolo
Published: October 2020

The lack of affordable, clean, and reliable energy in Africa’s rural areas forces people to resort to poor quality energy source, which is detrimental to the people’s health and prevents the economic development of communities. Moreover, access to safe water and food security are concerns closely linked to health issues and children malnourishment. Recent climate change due to global warming has worsened the already critical situation.

Electricity is well known to be an enabler of development as it allows the use of modern devices thus enabling the development of not only income-generating activities but also water pumping and food processing and conservation that can promote socioeconomic growth. However, all of this is difficult to achieve due to the lack of investors, local skills, awareness by the community, and often also government regulations.

All the above mentioned barriers to the uptake of electricity in rural Kenya could be solved by the coordinated effort of government, private sector, and academia, also referred to as Triple Helix, in which each entity may partially take the other’s role. This chapter discretizes the above and shows how a specific county (Marsabit) has benefited from this triple intervention. Existing government policies and actions and programs led by nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and international agencies are reviewed, highlighting the current interconnection and gaps in promoting integrated actions toward climate change adaptation and energy access.
Irrigation and passive drainage of pancreatic stump after distal pancreatectomy in high-risk patients: an innovative approach to reduce pancreatic fistula
Authors: Adamenko Olga , Ferrari Carlo , Schmidt Jan
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) represents the most common form of morbidity after distal pancreatectomy (DP). The aim of this study was to illustrate an innovative technique of irrigation and passive drainage to reduce clinically relevant POPF (CR-POPF) incidence in high-risk patients undergoing DP.

Material and methods

Twelve consecutive high-risk patients received irrigation and passive drainage of the pancreatic stump with a Salem sump drainage after DP. The Salem sump was irrigated with 100 ml/h of Ringer solution for 2 postoperative days (POD). In the case of low-drain amylase and lipase levels on POD 3, the irrigation was reduced to 50 ml/h. Persistence of low-drain pancreatic enzymes on POD 4 allowed for interruption of irrigation and subsequent removal of drainage from POD 7 onward in the absence of evidence of any pancreatic fistula.

Results

Overall, 16.6% of the patients experienced a grade 3 or higher surgical complication. We experienced only one case of POPF: the fistula was classified as grade B and it was managed with radiologic drainage of the fluid collection. We did not experience any case of re-operation nor in-hospital mortality.

Conclusions

Irrigation with passive drainage of the pancreatic stump after DP is an interesting approach for CR-POPF prevention in high-risk patients.
Gesprächspsychotherapie mit PatientInnen mit einer Borderline-Persönlichkeitsstörung
Authors: Eckert Jochen , Biermann-Ratjen Eva-Maria
Published: October 2020

Das zentrale Therapeutikum der Gesprächspsychotherapie ist ihr Beziehungsangebot: Der/die TherapeutIn bemüht sich, die PatientIn in ihrem Erleben bedingungsfrei positiv zu beachten und empathisch genau zu verstehen. Dieser Beitrag beschreibt und erläutert, wie sich die Symptomatik des/r Borderline-PatientIn, die vor allem Ausdruck einer Beziehungsstörung ist, auf die Möglichkeiten des/r PatientIn auswirkt, dieses Beziehungsangebot wahr- und anzunehmen.

Es wird dargestellt, wie der/die GesprächspsychotherapeutIn damit umgehen kann und dass ein/e TherapeutIn, die eine/n Borderline-PatientIn in Therapie nimmt, sich auf eine krisenanfällige Langzeitbehandlung einstellen sollte.

Der Beitrag schließt mit Empfehlungen zum therapeutischen Rahmen bzw. Versorgungsaspekten.
Effect of Lactobacillus brevis CD2 containing lozenges and plaque pH and cariogenic bacteria in diabetic children: a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Lai Stefano , Lingström Peter , Cagetti Maria Grazia , Cocco Fabio , Meloni Gianfranco , Arrica Maria Antonietta , Campus Guglielmo
Published: October 2020

Objective

The short-term effect (60 days) of Lactobacillus brevis CD2 lozenges vs placebo on variables related to caries and gingivitis in type 1 diabetic children was evaluated.

Material and methods

Eight diabetics (4–14 years old) were assigned to two groups (n = 34 subjects each), probiotic lozenges and placebo. Stimulated saliva for microbiological analysis and plaque pH were assessed at baseline (t0), 30 days (t1), 60 days (t2) and in the follow-up period (90 days from baseline, t3). Gingival status was assessed at t0, t2 and t3. Two-way ANOVA assessed differences between groups.

Results

In the probiotic group, Streptococcus mutans bacterial density mean scores dropped from 3.11 ± 1.13 at baseline to 1.82 ± 0.72 (t2) and to 2.06 ± 0.56 (t3), while in the placebo group, the scores were 3.09 ± 0.8 (t0), 2.82 ± 0.47 (t2) and 3.11 ± 0.43 (t3) (p < 0.01). Lowest and maximum pH fall increased in the probiotic group, from 5.37 ± 0.41 at baseline to 5.49 ± 0.24 at t3 (p < 0.01) and from 1.20 ± 0.46 to 0.98 ± 0.29 (p = 0.02). Bleeding score decreased significantly in both groups, showing a statistically significant lower bleeding score at t2 in the probiotic group (25.6%, 95% CI 21.5–32.7 vs 29.5%, 95% CI 25.2–34.9, p = 0.02).

Conclusions

Lactobacillus brevis CD2 has shown to improve caries-related risk factors and gingival health in diabetic children.

Clinical relevance

Lactobacillus brevis CD2 might contribute to improved oral health in type 1 diabetic children.
Meshless acoustic analysis using a weakly singular Burton-Miller boundary integral formulation
Authors: Chen Linchong , Li Xiaolin
Published: October 2020

The Burton-Miller boundary integral formulation is solved by a complex variable boundary element-free method (CVBEFM) for the boundary-only meshless analysis of acoustic problems with arbitrary wavenumbers. To regularize both strongly singular and hypersingular integrals and to avoid the computation of the solid angle and its normal derivative, a weakly singular Burton-Miller formulation is derived by considering the normal derivative of the solid angle and adopting the singularity subtraction procedures. To facilitate the implementation of the CVBEFM and the approximation of gradients of the boundary variables, a stabilized complex variable moving least-square approximation is selected in the meshless discretization procedure. The results show the accuracy and efficiency of the present CVBEFM and reveal that the method can produce satisfactory results for all wavenumbers, even for extremely large wavenumbers such as κ = 10 000.
Digital contact tracing and exposure notification: ethical guidance for trustworthy pandemic management
Authors: Ranisch Robert , Nijsingh Niels , Ballantyne Angela , van Bergen Anne , Buyx Alena , Friedrich Orsolya , Hendl Tereza , Marckmann Georg , Munthe Christian , Wild Verina
Published: October 2020

There is growing interest in contact tracing apps (CT apps) for pandemic management. It is crucial to consider ethical requirements before, while, and after implementing such apps. In this paper, we illustrate the complexity and multiplicity of the ethical considerations by presenting an ethical framework for a responsible design and implementation of CT apps. Using this framework as a starting point, we briefly highlight the interconnection of social and political contexts, available measures of pandemic management, and a multi-layer assessment of CT apps. We will discuss some trade-offs that arise from this perspective. We then suggest that public trust is of major importance for population uptake of contact tracing apps. Hasty, ill-prepared or badly communicated implementations of CT apps will likely undermine public trust, and as such, risk impeding general effectiveness.
Challenges in Founding and Developing Medical School Student-Run Asylum Clinics
Authors: Gu Fangning , Chu Emily , Milewski Andrew , Taleghani Sophia , Maju Mehar , Kuhn Randall , Richards Adam , Emery Eleanor
Published: October 2020

In response to the rapidly rising number of asylum applications, student-run asylum clinics (SRACs) designed to providepro bonoforensic medical evaluations have emerged at medical schools across the United States. Distinct from traditional student-run clinics in the services they provide and in their operational models, SRACs face a unique set of challenges. This study aims to identify the common challenges in building SRACs and to collect insights to inform a structured approach to collaborative problem-solving. This study gathered data from online surveys and semi-structured phone interviews with representative medical student SRAC leaders. 14 clinics participated in the 2017 online survey, 15 clinics in the 2018 online survey, and eight clinics in the 2018–2019 phone interviews. We identified common challenges in five areas: volunteer recruitment, clinic operations, case demand, institutional support, and leadership. SRACs stand to benefit from ongoing extramural collaborations to overcome shared challenges.
In the Air of the Natural History Museum: On Corporate Entanglement and Responsibility in Uncontained Times
Authors: Moncrieff Lilian
Published: October 2020

This paper discusses corporate entanglement, impactfulness and responsibility in the Anthropocene, amidst events and conditions that ‘uncontain’ time. It takes its direction of travel from artist Brian Jungen’s ‘Cetology’ (2002), a whalebone sculpture made out of cut-up plastic garden chairs, which conjoins the times of earth and world history, as it hangs in the air of the art gallery, ‘as if’ exhibited in the natural history museum. The paper relates ‘Cetology’s’ engagement with natural history, time, and commodification to matters of corporate entanglement and responsibility within company law and governance. Problems with understanding the comparable imprint of large and multinational companies on matters, places, and communities are identified, after the domination of corporate legal frameworks over nature and the stability and perfection of economic incentives at law. The reading of this (critical-legal) situation is developed through theory and engagement with materialist and critical thinkers, who unite in their concern with distributed human–nature relations and the ‘concreteness’ that attends collisions in time, ruin and affect. Walter Benjamin and Theodor Adorno’s writings are central to this analysis, and strengthen the commentary on ‘natural history’ themes curated by Jungen. The paper contemplates how times’ uncontainment might invoke a change in expectation and method for the company law field, assigning contingency to the corporation and provoking a new mode of reflection about corporate entanglement and responsibility at law.
Epigenetic regulation of somatostatin and somatostatin receptors in neuroendocrine tumors and other types of cancer
Authors: Klomp M.J. , Dalm S.U. , de Jong M. , Feelders R.A. , Hofland J. , Hofland L.J.
Published: October 2020

Both somatostatin (SST) and somatostatin receptors (SSTRs) are proteins with important functions in both physiological tissue and in tumors, particularly in neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). NETs are frequently characterized by high SSTRs expression levels. SST analogues (SSAs) that bind and activate SSTR have anti-proliferative and anti-secretory activity, thereby reducing both the growth as well as the hormonal symptoms of NETs. Moreover, the high expression levels of SSTR type-2 (SSTR2) in NETs is a powerful target for therapy with radiolabeled SSAs. Due to the important role of both SST and SSTRs, it is of great importance to elucidate the mechanisms involved in regulating their expression in NETs, as well as in other types of tumors. The field of epigenetics recently gained interest in NET research, highlighting the importance of this process in regulating the expression of gene and protein expression. In this review we will discuss the role of the epigenetic machinery in controlling the expression of both SSTRs and the neuropeptide SST. Particular attention will be given to the epigenetic regulation of these proteins in NETs, whereas the involvement of the epigenetic machinery in other types of cancer will be discussed as well. In addition, we will discuss the possibility to target enzymes involved in the epigenetic machinery to modify the expression of the SST-system, thereby possibly improving therapeutic options.
Fog, Temperature and Air Quality Over the Metropolitan Area of São Paulo: a Trend Analysis from 1998 to 2018
Authors: Mühlig André Cardoso , Klemm Otto , Gonçalves Fábio Luiz Teixeira
Published: October 2020

This study investigates the long-term development of fog occurrences in the Metropolitan Area of São Paulo (MASP). Specifically, it analyzes the roles of meteorological and air quality parameters as potential drivers for fog formation. A dataset reaching back to the year 1933 shows that the overall trends of the annual fog occurrences (AFO) coincide with those of the annual mean temperature. Air quality data have been available since 1998, allowing us to perform a statistical analysis of the contributions of meteorology and air quality to AFO for the period from 1998 to 2018. The logistic regression model shows that the binary dependent variable (daily fog occurrence, FO) is explained by its independent predictors PM10, relative humidity (rH), and daily minimum temperature (Tmin), in that order. FO was not found to be significantly influenced by atmospheric pressure (aP) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). While the influence of SO2 was minor and associated with less confidence, it was negative. Potential causes for these surprising results are discussed. We conclude that the parameters PM10, rH, and Tmin are significant drivers of fog formation in the MASP, whereby the total explanatory power of the drivers for the dichotomous variable FO is 16%.
Networked territorialism: the routes and roots of organised crime
Authors: Clark Andy , Fraser Alistair , Hamilton-Smith Niall
Published: October 2020

In the digital age, space has become increasingly structured by the circuitry of global capital, communications and commodities. This ‘network society’ splinters and fragments territorial space according to the hidden logic of networked global capital; with successful criminal entrepreneurs connecting bases in low-risk, controllable territories with high-profit markets. Drawing on a recent, large-scale study of organised crime in Scotland, in this paper we elaborate the relationship between place, territory and criminal markets in two contrasting communities. The first is an urban neighbourhood with a longstanding organised crime footprint, where recognised local criminal groups have established deep roots. The second is a rural community with a negligible organised crime footprint, where the drug economy is serviced by a mobile criminal network based in England. Through comparison of the historical roots and contemporary routes of these criminal markets, we note both similarity and difference. While both communities demonstrated evidence of ‘networked territorialism’, key differences related to historical and social antecedents, in particular the impact of deindustrialisation.
Analysis of subsequent therapy in Japanese patients with hormone receptor‒positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2‒negative advanced breast cancer who received palbociclib plus endocrine therapy in PALOMA-2 and -3
Authors: Masuda Norikazu , Mukai Hirofumi , Inoue Kenichi , Rai Yoshiaki , Ohno Shinji , Ohtani Shoichiro , Shimizu Chikako , Hashigaki Satoshi , Muramatsu Yasuaki , Umeyama Yoshiko , Iwata Hiroji , Toi Masakazu
Published: October 2020

Background

In the double-blind, phase 3 PALOMA-2 and PALOMA-3 studies, palbociclib plus endocrine therapy (ET) demonstrated significant improvement in progression-free survival versus placebo plus ET in patients with hormone receptor‒positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2‒negative advanced breast cancer. This analysis assessed subsequent treatment patterns after palbociclib therapy in Japanese patients enrolled in the PALOMA-2 and PALOMA-3 studies.

Methods

PALOMA-2 included postmenopausal women who had not received prior systemic therapy for advanced disease. PALOMA-3 included pre- or postmenopausal women who had progressed on previous ET. Types of subsequent therapy were assessed, and treatment durations of subsequent therapy were estimated using the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

Japanese patients were enrolled in PALOMA-2 (n = 46) and PALOMA-3 (n = 35). In both studies, the most common first subsequent therapy was ET (PALOMA-2, 77% in the palbociclib group and 75% in the placebo group; PALOMA-3, 55% and 43%, respectively), followed by chemotherapy (PALOMA-2, 18% and 8%; PALOMA-3, 32% and 57%). The median (95% CI) duration of first subsequent therapy was 6.4 (2.3‒13.9) months with palbociclib plus letrozole and 6.7 (2.8‒13.0) months with placebo plus letrozole in PALOMA-2 and 3.8 (2.4‒5.7) months with palbociclib plus fulvestrant and 9.7 (1.0‒not estimable) months with placebo plus fulvestrant in PALOMA-3.

Conclusions

The types of first subsequent therapy received by Japanese patients in the palbociclib plus ET and placebo plus ET groups were similar. Further evaluation of subsequent therapy data in the real-world setting is warranted considering the small sample size of this analysis.
Enigma of Dangoaposi and Jagannathpur Lavas of Singhbhum Craton, Eastern India: Possible Solution
Authors: Ray Jyotisankar , Maiti Satyananda , Manikyamba C. , Paul Madhuparna , Dey Payel , Misra Satabdi
Published: October 2020

In the Precambrian Singhbhum stratigraphy, some enigmatic aspects exist as regards to Dangoaposi and Jagannathpur lavas. The existing enigma embodies locational aspects of these lavas, structural characteristics, stratigraphic position, and geochemical affinities. Based on recent field studies by the authors and knowledge acquired from existing literature, a possible solution has been proposed in the present study, which may be followed by Precambrian geologists in order to avoid all existing confusion and dilemma. The present study clearly indicates that in Jagannathpur, there is the presence of dyke rocks only (and there is no lava) and as such stratigraphic position of Jagannathpur lava in Singhbhum Geology should be discontinued. Dangoaposi lava (described as Jagannathpur lava by some previous workers) explicitly represents a portion of western Iron Ore Group (IOG) lava and therefore, may be considered to represent a sub-domain within western IOG.
Extraction of common microalgae by liquefied dimethyl ether: influence of species and pretreatment on oil yields and composition
Authors: Bauer Manuel C. , Konnerth Philipp , Kruse Andrea
Published: October 2020

Liquefied dimethyl ether (DME) is regarded as a promising, green solvent for biomass lipid extractions. It is non-toxic, applicable to wet feedstocks, and allows easy product separation by pressure reduction. Yet, knowledge about its usability in combination with oleaginous microalgae is limited. In the current work, four common microalgae and cyanobacteria species were used to study DME extraction characteristics: Arthrospira platensis, Nannochloropsis gaditana, Phaeodactylum tricornutum, and Scenedesmus almeriensis. Dried samples were subjected to a batch DME extraction and compared to a standard chloroform/methanol procedure. To evaluate the influence of pretreatment, particle size distributions of two different milling sequences (knife- and cryo-milling) and the resulting effects on DME extraction and oil composition were addressed. Additionally, an algae washing procedure was tested. DME extractions resulted in oil yields of 0.5–2.7% of dry mass (equal to 5–19% of total lipids) without further pretreatment. Cryo-milling reduced median particle sizes by 25–87% and simultaneously increased lipid yields to 1.7–5.6% of dry mass (17–50% of total lipids). Phaeodactylum tricornutum showed the highest extraction efficiency with DME, combined with a favorable fatty acid profile. Although being most affected by the additional milling pretreatment, Arthrospira platensis performed worst in both scenarios. DME extracted oils were generally characterized by enhanced contents of C14:0, C16:0, and C16:1 fatty acids. However, relative abundances were strongly influenced by the properties of the tested algae species. The additional cryo-milling pretreatment affected fatty acid compositions by increasing the shares of potentially valuable polyunsaturated fatty acids.
Preparation of hollow fiber membranes from mullite particles with aid of sintering additives
Authors: Liu Hua , Liu Jinyun , Hong Zhou , Wang Shengxian , Gao Xuechao , Gu Xuehong
Published: October 2020

Porous mullite hollow fiber membranes were prepared with a combined phase-inversion and sintering method, using three sintering additives including yttrium stabilized zirconia (YSZ), small mullite particles (SMP), and titanium oxide (TiO2) to promote the particle sintering. The results indicated that all the three additives could improve the sintering performance of mullite hollow fiber membranes due to the decrease in activation energy of mullite grains. Both YSZ and TiO2 could react with mullite grains to generate composite oxides (e.g., ZrSiO4 and Al2TiO5) during sintering, following a reaction-sintering mechanism. Interestingly, the newly generated ZrSiO4 was instable and further decomposed into monoclinic ZrO2 and SiO2 in the sintering process. The decomposition could avoid excessive embedment of composite oxides among mullite grains which have negative impact on mechanical strength of mullite hollow fibers. Overall, the doping of YSZ provided a better promotion effect on the sintering of mullite hollow fiber membranes, where the microstructural and mechanical properties are insensitive to the doping content and sintering temperatures, so it could be used as the candidate for the large-scale preparation of mullite hollow fibers.