bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relational dialogue in emotion‐focused therapy
Authors: Elliott Robert , Macdonald James
Published: October 2020

Objectives

In emotion‐focused therapy (EFT) relational processes between the therapist and client are not normally an explicit focus unless the therapist and client encounter difficulties that interfere with therapeutic work. When this does happen, however, relational dialogue (including meta‐communication) becomes necessary. We present the principles and stages of the EFT task Relational Dialogue for Alliance Difficulties.

Methods and Results

After describing this little‐known task, we illustrate its application in the successful treatment of a severely socially anxious female client with complex trauma and emotional fragility. Using transcripts and detailed descriptions we highlight the alliance difficulty marker subtype, relational dialogue principles and the stages of EFT alliance difficulty work.
Clinical psychology PhD students' admission experiences: Implications for recruiting racial/ethnic minority and LGBTQ students
Authors: Hsueh Loretta , Werntz Alexandra , Hobaica Steven , Owens Sarah A. , Lumley Mark A. , Washburn Jason J.
Published: October 2020

Aim

The purpose of this study was to explore differences in the clinical psychology PhD program admissions experience (i.e., interviewing and decision‐making) by race/ethnicity and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) identity.

Methods

Participants were 803 students (24% racial/ethnic minority; 19% LGBTQ) enrolled in US clinical psychology PhD programs. Two‐group comparisons tested for differences in admission experiences by race/ethnicity and LGBTQ identity.

Results

Racial/ethnic minority and LGBTQ students considered a programmatic commitment to diversity as more important in application decisions compared to non‐Hispanic White and cisgender heterosexual students, respectively. LGBTQ students were more likely to be advised to not discuss personal information (e.g., sexual orientation) than cisgender heterosexual students. Racial/ethnic minority and LGBTQ students identified financial considerations and program outcomes as more important in their decision‐making compared with non‐Hispanic White and cisgender heterosexual students, respectively.

Conclusion

Increasing funding and fostering authentic training environments should be prioritized in institutional conversations around recruiting racial/ethnic minority and LGBTQ trainees.
Nitrogen supply and rainfall affect ammonia emissions from dairy cattle excreta and urea applied on warm‐climate pastures
Authors: Longhini Vanessa Zirondi , Cardoso Abmael da Silva , Berça Andressa Scholz , Boddey Robert Michael , Reis Ricardo Andrade , Dubeux Junior José Carlos Batista , Ruggieri Ana Cláudia
Published: October 2020

Cattle excreta and nitrogen (N) fertilizer deposited on tropical grasslands are important sources of ammonia (NH3) emission. We conducted three field trials (wet, intermediate, and dry conditions) to quantify NH3 emissions from urea fertilizer and simulated excretions of heifer urine and dung on warm‐climate grasslands in Brazil. Heifer excreta were derived from pastures of palisadegrass [Urochloa brizantha (Hochst. ex A. Rich.) R. D. Webster ‘Marandu’] under three forms of N supply (without or with N fertilization [0 or 150 kg N ha−1 yr−1] or mixed with forage peanut [Arachis pintoi ‘Amarillo’]). Cumulative NH3–N emissions across rainfall conditions were 7.6–16.6% (mean, 11.7%) for urine, 1.4–2.9% (mean, 2.0%) for dung, and 11.2–20.5% (mean, 14.8%) for urea. Ammonia loss from urine was significantly greater than from dung under all rainfall conditions. Emission from urine and dung differed from those when urea was applied on palisadegrass. There were greater NH3 emissions from urine in the wetter times of the year. Heifer excreta from N‐fertilized pasture had greater NH3 emission than excreta from the grass–legume mixture and unfertilized palisadegrass. Urea applied on palisadegrass presented greater NH3 emissions in wet rainfall conditions compared with dry conditions but did not differ from intermediate conditions. Our study showed that N‐fertilized systems increase N losses as NH3 emission from excreta, and emissions from urea fertilizer must be included in this system. Heifer excreta and urea fertilizer deposited on warm‐climate grasslands increased the NH3 emissions mainly under wet conditions.
Congenital pancreaticobiliary anomalies in an urban medical center in the United States
Authors: Sugawa Choichi , Culver Ashley , Sundaresan Naresh , Lucas Charles E
Published: October 2020

Background and Aim

Pancreaticobiliary anomalies are rare and often present with cryptic signs and symptoms, thus delaying appropriate treatment.

Methods

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) was used to define pancreaticobiliary anomalies. A retrospective review was performed of 5522 ERCPs conducted at a tertiary care center from 1972 to 2015.

Results

There were 249 (4.5%) patients with pancreaticobiliary anomalies, including 179 patients with pancreas divisum (PD), 44 patients with choledochal cyst (CC) (Todani's classification Type I: extrahepatic cyst 31, Type III; choledochocele 9, Type V: Caroli's disease 4), 20 patients with anomalous pancreaticobiliary ductal union (APDU), and 6 patients with other abnormalities. Of 179 patients with pancreas divisum, 8 (4.5%) required minor sphincterotomies for multiple unexplained acute pancreatitis. Of the 31, 15 (48%) Type I CC patients underwent an operation. In patients with Type III CC (choledochocele), seven of the nine were treated by endoscopic sphincterotomy, and two patients were treated by surgery. Four patients with Type V CC (Caroli's disease) were managed nonoperatively. Of the 20 patients with APDU, 8 (40%) required operative intervention. Six patients were found to have other anomalies: two with pancreas bifidum, one with a duplication of the gallbladder, one with a cystic duct diverticulum, one with an annular pancreas, and one with an abnormal cystic duct origin. These patients were treated based on their etiology.

Conclusion

Pancreaticobiliary anomalies are rare and can be defined using ERCP. The appreciation of these abnormalities is important for the proper diagnosis and treatment of these rare biliary and pancreatic disorders.
Phase II study of dose‐adjusted gemcitabine, dexamethasone, cisplatin, and rituximab in elderly relapsed diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma patients
Authors: Yamasaki Satoshi , Kada Akiko , Choi Ilseung , Iida Hiroatsu , Sekiguchi Naohiro , Harada Naoko , Sawamura Morio , Shimomura Takeshi , Komeno Takuya , Yano Takahiro , Yoshida Isao , Yoshida Shinichiro , Sunami Kazutaka , Hishita Terutoshi , Takatsuki Hiroshi , Ohshima Koichi , Takeshita Morishige , Saito Akiko M. , Iwasaki Hiromi , Nagai Hirokazu
Published: October 2020

High‐dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) are too toxic for elderly patients with relapsed or refractory diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Therefore, effective and tolerable regimens for elderly patients are urgently needed. The present phase II study assessed the efficacy and safety of dose‐adjusted therapy with gemcitabine, dexamethasone, cisplatin, and rituximab (GDP‐R) in this population. ASCT‐ineligible elderly patients with relapsed or refractory DLBCL received dose‐adjusted GDP‐R in each 28‐day cycle for up to six cycles. The primary endpoint was overall response rate (ORR), and secondary endpoints were complete response (CR) rate, progression‐free survival (PFS), and safety. Thirty‐three patients were enrolled and received dose‐adjusted GDP‐R. The median age was 75 years (range: 68‐87 years). The ORR was 82.8% (90% confidence interval [CI], 67.1‐93.0%), with a CR rate of 58.6% (90% CI, 41.7‐74.1%). At a median follow‐up of 20.9 months, the 2‐year PFS rate was 46.8% (90% CI, 30.7‐61.5%) and the 2‐year overall survival rate was 63.2% (90% CI, 45.8‐76.3%). The most frequently observed grade 4 adverse events were neutropenia (63.6%), thrombocytopenia (57.6%), and lymphocytopenia (39.4%). Dose‐adjusted GDP‐R is a promising salvage regimen for ASCT‐ineligible elderly patients with relapsed DLBCL after rituximab‐containing chemotherapy and warrants further investigation.
Is subtotal cholecystectomy safe and feasible? Short‐ and long‐term results
Authors: Acar Nihan , Acar Turan , Sür Yunus , Bağ Halis , Kar Haldun , Yılmaz Bozok Yeliz , Dilek Osman Nuri
Published: October 2020

Background

Cholecystectomy is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures. However, it may result in some unpleasant conditions such as bile duct injury (BDI), bile leak, and vessel injury. Subtotal cholecystectomy (SC), which has been introduced as an alternative method for reducing the complication rates, has been reported to have lower risk of BDI when compared to total cholecystectomy.

This study aimed to evaluate the indications for SC, its early and late complications and their management, and the risk factors affecting the bile leak.

Methods

Fifty‐seven patients who underwent SC were included in the study, and their medical records were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

Thirty‐three patients were male (57.9%) and the mean age was 64.84 ± 11.35 (range: 29‐86). All patients had at least one episode of cholecystitis. Forty‐seven (82.5%) patients underwent surgery under emergency conditions. Postoperative bile leak/fistula, surgical site infection, and fluid collection were developed in 12 (21.1%), eight (14%), and six (10.5%) patients, respectively. Leaving the remnant tissue pouch open, presence of comorbidity and emergency operative condition were found to increase the risk of leak development (P < .001).

During the average follow‐up of 49 months (range: 13‐98), symptomatic choledocholithiasis, symptomatic gallstones in the remnant tissue, and incisional hernia were detected within the first year of surgery in three (5.3%), four (7%), and seven (12.3%) patients, respectively.

Conclusions

Although SC is not an equivalent to total cholecystectomy, its vital benefit of lowering the risk of BDI should be considered in difficult cases.
Limitations of an in vitro model of the poultry digestive tract on the evaluation of the catalytic performance of phytases
Authors: Greiner Ralf
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

The study aims to investigate the limitation of a poultry digestive tract model developed by Menezes‐Blackburn et al. [J Agric Food Chem 63: 6142–6149 (2015)] on the evaluation of the bioefficacy of phytases.

RESULTS

It was confirmed that the in vitro model does not mimic the in vivo situation in the birds sufficiently well to identify the best phytase product under real conditions, or to draw conclusion on the effect of phytate concentration, phytate source or feed composition on the bioefficacy of phytase. Addition of calcium ion (Ca2+) up to a concentration of 10 g kg−1 to the feed substrate, for example, did not affect enzymatic phytate dephosphorylation in the in vitro model in contrast to the observation in poultry.

CONCLUSION

The in vitro approach was shown to be applicable as a complementary tool in the pre‐selection of promising phytase candidates, resulting in a reduction in the number of feeding trials in the initial screening phase. © 2020 The Author. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Effect of altitude and terrain aspect on the chemical composition of Coffea canephora cherries and sensory characteristics of the beverage
Authors: Pereira Priscila V , da Silveira Daila L , Schwan Rosane F , de Assis Silva Samuel , Coelho Jussara M , Bernardes Patrícia C
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

The terrain slope and field altitude where the plant is cultivated influence the composition of coffee cherries. The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of different levels of altitude and terrain slope on the Coffea canephora cherries, as well as on the quality of the final beverage. C. canephora harvested in fields with 300 and 600 m altitude and with southeast‑ and northwest‐facing slopes was evaluated.

RESULTS

Lower pH values were observed for cherries cultivated at higher altitudes. The highest percentage of soluble solids (525.00 g kg−1) was found on northwest‐facing slopes at 300 m. The highest values of phenolic compounds were observed at 600 m. Significant differences were found in the moisture of coffee cherries grown in different terrain slope and in the fiber content at different altitudes. The results do not enable us to conclude how the altitude and terrain slope influence the mineral content of cherries. Acidity, proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates were not influenced by altitude or terrain slope. The scores of cup quality were significantly affected by the altitude but not by the terrain slope. Coffees from cherries harvested in fields with 600 m altitude obtained the higher scores.

CONCLUSION

Results show that altitude and terrain slope influence some compounds of coffee fruits, whereas others remain unaffected. The findings are important because, during coffee fruits processing, these compounds are used to produce others that will have an influence on the bean and coffee beverage quality. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Telerobotic Sonography for Remote Diagnostic Imaging
Authors: Adams Scott J. , Burbridge Brent , Obaid Haron , Stoneham Grant , Babyn Paul , Mendez Ivar
Published: October 2020

Access to sonographers and sonologists is limited in many communities around the world. Telerobotic sonography (robotic ultrasound) is a new technology to increase access to sonography, providing sonographers and sonologists the ability to manipulate an ultrasound probe from a distant location and remotely perform ultrasound examinations. This narrative review discusses the development of telerobotic ultrasound systems, clinical studies evaluating the feasibility and diagnostic accuracy of telerobotic sonography, and emerging use of telerobotic sonography in clinical settings. Telerobotic sonography provides an opportunity to provide real‐time ultrasound examinations to underserviced rural and remote communities to increase equity in the delivery of diagnostic imaging.
Design and Synthesis of Polyimide Covalent Organic Frameworks
Authors: Zhang Ya , Huang Zhe , Ruan Bo , Zhang Xinke , Jiang Tao , Ma Ning , Tsai Fang‐Chang
Published: October 2020

As a subseries of the covalent organic framework (COF) material family, polyimide‐based covalent organic framework (PI‐COF) material, which has the advantages of high stability of polyimide, high specific surface area, and controllable pores of COF material, is expected to be a new type of porous material with potential applications. Although the development of PI‐COF is in the early stages during the past decade, it has attracted extensive attention and is widely used in heterogeneous catalysis, gas separation, and storage fields. Therefore, this review is aiming to give a comprehensive understanding of the recent progress of PI‐COFs. This article summarizes the progress of PI‐COF from three aspects: controllable structure design, synthesis method, and application. First of all, under the guidance of network chemical design principles, the topology type of PI‐COF and the size and shape of the formed pores are summarized in terms of different organic monomers. Then the five synthetic strategies for the synthesis of PI‐COF are analyzed. Finally, the applications of PI‐COF in adsorption and separation, drug delivery, solar‐to‐electrochemical energy storage, photocatalysis, and electrocatalyst are introduced.
RNA splicing alteration in the response to platinum chemotherapy in ovarian cancer: A possible biomarker and therapeutic target
Authors: Pellarin Ilenia , Belletti Barbara , Baldassarre Gustavo
Published: October 2020

Since its discovery, alternative splicing has been recognized as a powerful way for a cell to amplify the genetic information and for a living organism to adapt, evolve, and survive. We now know that a very high number of genes are regulated by alternative splicing and that alterations of splicing have been observed in different types of human diseases, including cancer. Here, we review the accumulating knowledge that links the regulation of alternative splicing to the response to chemotherapy, focusing our attention on ovarian cancer and platinum‐based treatments. Moreover, we discuss how expanding information could be exploited to identify new possible biomarkers of platinum response, to better select patients, and/or to design new therapies able to overcome platinum resistance.
Chromosomal translocation disrupting the SMAD4 gene resulting in the combined phenotype of Juvenile polyposis syndrome and Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia
Authors: Aagaard Katrine S. , Brusgaard Klaus , Miceikaite Ieva , Larsen Martin J. , Kjeldsen Anette D. , Lester Emilie B. , Ousager Lilian B. , Tørring Pernille M.
Published: October 2020

Background

Patients with germline variants in SMAD4 can present symptoms of both juvenile polyposis syndrome (JPS) and Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT): JP‐HHT syndrome. Next‐Generation Sequencing (NGS) techniques disclose causative sequence variants in around 90% of HHT patients fulfilling the Curaçao criteria. Here we report a translocation event involving SMAD4 resulting in JP‐HHT.

Methods

A patient fulfilling the Curaçao criteria was analyzed for variants in ENG, ACVRL1, and SMAD4 using standard techniques. Whole‐genome sequencing (WGS) using both short‐read NGS technology and long‐read Oxford Nanopore technology was performed to define the structural variant and exact breakpoints.

Results

No pathogenic variant was detected in ENG, ACVRL1, or SMAD4 in DNA extracted from blood. Due to abortus habitualis, the proband´s daughter was submitted for chromosomal analysis, and a cytogenetically balanced chromosomal reciprocal translocation t(1;18)(p36.1;q21.1) was detected in the daughter and the patient. The balanced translocation segregated with both gastrointestinal cancer and HHT in the family. WGS provided the exact breakpoints of the reciprocal translocation proving disruption of the SMAD4 gene.

Discussion

A disease‐causing reciprocal translocation between chromosome 1 and 18 with a breakpoint in the SMAD4 locus co‐segregated with JP‐HHT in an extended family. This observation warrants further analysis for chromosomal rearrangements in individuals with clinical HHT or JP‐HHT of unknown cause.
Machine learning prediction of axillary lymph node metastasis in breast cancer: 2D versus 3D radiomic features
Authors: Arefan Dooman , Chai Ruimei , Sun Min , Zuley Margarita L. , Wu Shandong
Published: October 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to distinguish axillary lymph node (ALN) status using preoperative breast DCE‐MRI radiomics and compare the effects of two‐dimensional (2D) and three‐dimensional (3D) analysis.

Methods

A retrospective study including 154 breast cancer patients all confirmed by pathology; 80 with ALN metastasis and 74 without. All MRI scans were achieved at a 3.0 Tesla scanner with 7 post‐contrast MR phases sequentially acquired with a temporal resolution of 60 s. MRI radiomic features were extracted separately from a 2D single slice (i.e., the representative slice) and the 3D tumor volume. Several machine learning classifiers were built and compared using 2D or 3D analysis to distinguish positive vs negative ALN status. We performed independent test and 10‐fold cross validation with multiple repetitions, and used bootstrap test, least absolute shrinkage selection operator, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis as statistical tests.

Results

The highest area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.81 (95% confidence intervals [CI]: 0.80–0.83) and 0.82 (95% CI: 0.81–0.82) for 2D and 3D analysis, respectively; the corresponding accuracy was 79% and 80%. The linear discriminant analysis (LDA) classifier achieved the highest classification performance. None of the AUC differences between 2D and 3D analysis was statistically significant for the several tested machine learning classifiers (allP> 0.05).

Conclusions

Radiomic features from segmented tumor region in breast MRI were associated with ALN status. The separate radiomic analysis on 3D tumor volume showed a similar effect to the 2D analysis on the single representative slice in the tested machine learning classifiers.
Increased blood–brain barrier permeability to water in the aging brain detected using noninvasive multi‐TE ASL MRI
Authors: Ohene Yolanda , Harrison Ian F. , Evans Phoebe G. , Thomas David L. , Lythgoe Mark F. , Wells Jack A.
Published: October 2020

Purpose

A fundamental goal in the drive to understand and find better treatments for dementia is the identification of the factors that render the aging brain vulnerable to neurodegenerative disease. Recent evidence indicates the integrity of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) to be an important component of functional failure underlying age‐related cognitive decline. Practical and sensitive measurement is necessary, therefore, to support diagnostic and therapeutic strategies targeted at maintaining BBB integrity in aging patients. Here, we investigated changes in BBB permeability to endogenous blood water in the aging brain.

Methods

A multiple‐echo‐time arterial spin‐labeling MRI technique, implemented on a 9.4T Bruker imaging system, was applied to 7‐ and 27‐month‐old mice to measure changes in water permeability across the BBB with aging.

Results

We observed that BBB water permeability was 32% faster in aged mice. This occurred along with a 2.1‐fold increase in mRNA expression of aquaporin‐4 water channels and a 7.1‐fold decrease in mRNA expression of α‐syntrophin protein, which anchors aquaporin‐4 to the BBB.

Conclusion

Age‐related changes to water permeability across the BBB can be captured using noninvasive noncontrast MRI techniques.
Evaluating the relationship between the course experience questionnaire and student satisfaction: A case from India
Authors: Kaur Sarbjeet , Singh Gurcharan , Garg Aashish
Published: October 2020

Appraising and improving the quality of teaching is a central issue all over the world. Using the Course Experience Questionnaire (CEQ), the current study examined the relationship between teaching quality dimensions and student satisfaction. The study evaluates the post‐graduate students' perception of teaching quality and its relation with overall student satisfaction in context to state public universities of Punjab, India. Data were collected from 348 post‐graduate in management students. Confirmatory factor analysis was applied to evaluate the measurement model, and a further Structured Equation Model was applied to test the proposed research hypotheses. The results reveal that clear goals and standards, generic skills, and appropriate assessment have a direct impact on the overall student satisfaction, whereas appropriate workload and good teaching skills have an indirect effect on the overall satisfaction. The female structural model replicated the findings of the overall model and showed that generic skills and clear goals are more important in student satisfaction. In contrast, the male structural model was quite different; only appropriate assessment has a direct impact on student satisfaction. Several implications for the improvement of post‐graduate management teaching quality and quality assurance in terms of lecture delivery and course planning in‐state public universities of India were further discussed.
Dual‐peptide functionalized nanoparticles for therapeutic use
Authors: Forest Chelsea R. , Silva Caitlin A. C. , Thordarson Pall
Published: October 2020

Peptide‐functionalized nanoparticles combine the best of both; the ability of nanoparticles to deliver a drug “cargo” throughout the body and the ability of peptides to selectively target certain cell types or biological systems. The vast majority of peptide‐functionalized nanoparticles employ only one type of peptide, however, to truly realize the potential of these systems in medicine, nanoparticles equipped with two or even more peptide functionalities are desirable. In this review, the latest developments in dual‐peptide functionalized nanoparticles are discussed. These are categorized depending on their structure; first broadly into grafted and self‐assembled dual‐peptide‐nanoparticles with the former then subdivided further into nonconjugated, linearly conjugated and branched conjugated dual‐peptide functionalized nanoparticles. These different categories of dual‐peptide nanoparticles are then discussed with regards to the type of functional peptides used and their role in selective targeting nanomedicine.
Hydrogels from serum albumin in a molten globule‐like state
Authors: Arabi Seyed Hamidreza , Aghelnejad Behdad , Volmer Jonas , Hinderberger Dariush
Published: October 2020

We demonstrate that a molten globule‐like (MG) state of a protein, usually described as a compact yet non‐folded conformation that is only present in a narrow and delicate parameter range, is preserved in the high concentration environment of the protein hydrogel. We reveal mainly by means of electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy that bovine serum albumin (BSA) retains the known basic MG state after a hydrogel has been formed from 20 wt% precursor solutions. At pH values of ~11.4, BSA hydrogels made from MG‐BSA remain stable for weeks, while gels formed at slightly different (~0.2) pH units above and below the MG‐state value dissolve into viscous solutions. On the contrary, when hydrophobic screening agents are added such as amphiphilic, EPR‐active stearic acid derivatives (16‐DOXYL‐stearic acid, 16‐DSA), the MG‐state based hydrogel is the least long‐lived, as the hydrophobic interaction of delicately exposed hydrophobic patches of BSA molecules is screened by the amphiphilic molecules. These bio‐ and polymer‐physically unexpected findings may lead to new bio‐compatible MG‐based hydrogels that display novel properties in comparison to conventional gels.
A first‐principles approach for treating wastewaters
Authors: Santana Adriano , Farinha Andreia S. F. , Toraño Aniela Zarzar , Ibrahim Mahmoud , Mishra Himanshu
Published: October 2020

Numerous materials are employed for the removal of contaminants from wastewaters. However, the regeneration/reuse of these materials is still seldom practiced. Quantitative insights into intermolecular forces between the contaminants and the functional surfaces might aid the rational design of reusable materials. Here, we compare the efficacies of aliphatic (C8H18), aromatic (C6H6), and aromatic perfluorinated (C6F6) moieties at removing methylene blue (MB+) as a surrogate cationic dye from water. We employed density functional theory with an implicit polarizable continuum model for water to accurately determine the contributions of the solvent's electrostatics in the adsorption process. Our calculations pinpointed the relative contributions of ππ stacking, van der Waals complexation, hydrogen bonding, and cationπ interactions, predicting that MB+ would bind the strongest with C6F6 due to hydrogen bonding and the weakest with C8H18. Complementary laboratory experiments revealed that, despite the similar hydrophobicity of silica beads functionalized with SiC8H17, SiC6H5, and SiC6F5 groups, as characterized by their water contact angles, the relative uptake of aqueous MB+ varied as SiC6F5 (95%) > SiC6H5 (35%) > SiC8H17 (3%). This first principles‐led experimental approach can be easily extended to other classes of dyes, thereby advancing the rational design of adsorbents.
Self‐catalytic mechanism of prebiotic reactions: II. From urea and glycinamide to hypoxanthine
Authors: Enchev Venelin , Slavova Sofia
Published: October 2020

Mechanisms of reactions for formylation of urea, leading toN,N′‐diformylurea, and for the dehydration of glycinamide andN,N′‐diformylurea, yielding hypoxanthine, are suggested. It is shown that these reactions are self‐catalyzed. The first is catalyzed by formic acid, while the second is catalyzed byN,N′‐diformylurea. The suggested reaction mechanism shows that the N3 and N9 atoms of hypoxanthine originate from urea in agreement with available1H NMR experimental data by Lagoja and Herdewijn (Lagoja & Herdewijn,Chem. Biodiv.2004, 1, 106). A complete reaction pathway of prebiotic reactions for formation of the hypoxanthine from urea, formic acid, and glycinamide in formamide, where formamide/formimidic acid plays the role of a proton‐carrying catalyst, is also suggested.
Trigger‐based tracking control for a class of uncertain nonlinear systems via an event‐triggered extended state observer
Authors: Yang Yang , Si Xuefeng , Yue Dong
Published: October 2020

An event‐triggered observer‐based output feedback control issue together with triggered input is investigated for a class of uncertain nonlinear systems subject to unknown external disturbances. Two separate event‐triggered conditions are located on the measurement channel and control channel, respectively. An event‐triggered extended state observer (ETESO) is employed to estimate unmeasurable states and compensate uncertainties and disturbances in real time while it is not required for real‐time output measurement. Then, combined with backstepping method and active disturbance rejection control, an output feedback control scheme is proposed, where an event‐triggered input is developed for reducing the communication rate between the controller and the actuator. The triggered instants are determined by a time‐varying event‐triggered condition. Two simulations, including a numerical example and an permanent‐magnet motor, are illustrated to verify the effectiveness of the proposed schemes.
High‐dimensional integrative copula discriminant analysis for multiomics data
Authors: He Yong , Chen Hao , Sun Hao , Ji Jiadong , Shi Yufeng , Zhang Xinsheng , Liu Lei
Published: October 2020

Multiomics or integrative omics data have been increasingly common in biomedical studies, holding a promise in better understanding human health and disease. In this article, we propose an integrative copula discrimination analysis classifier in the context of two‐class classification, which relaxes the common Gaussian assumption and gains power by borrowing information from multiple omics data types in discriminant analysis. Numerical studies are conducted to assess the finite sample performance of the new classifier. We apply our model to the Religious Orders Study and Memory and Aging Project (ROSMAP) Study, integrating gene expression and DNA methylation data for better prediction.
Software smell detection techniques: A systematic literature review
Authors: AbuHassan Amjad , Alshayeb Mohammad , Ghouti Lahouari
Published: October 2020

Software smells indicate design or code issues that might degrade the evolution and maintenance of software systems. Detecting and identifying these issues are challenging tasks. This paper explores, identifies, and analyzes the existing software smell detection techniques at design and code levels. We carried out a systematic literature review (SLR) to identify and collect 145 primary studies related to smell detection in software design and code. Based on these studies, we address several questions related to the analysis of the existing smell detection techniques in terms of abstraction level (design or code), targeted smells, used metrics, implementation, and validation. Our analysis identified several detection techniques categories. We observed that 57% of the studies did not use any performance measures, 41% of them omitted details on the targeted programing language, and the detection techniques were not validated in 14% of these studies. With respect to the abstraction level, only 18% of the studies addressed bad smell detection at the design level. This low coverage urges for more focus on bad smell detection at the design level to handle them at early stages. Finally, our SLR brings to the attention of the research community several opportunities for future research.
Insights into the Surface/Interface Modifications of Bi2MoO6: Feasible Strategies and Photocatalytic Applications
Authors: Yang Xianglong , Xu Xiao , Wang Jian , Chen Ting , Wang Shengyao , Ding Xing , Chen Hao
Published: October 2020

Bi2MoO6, an eye‐catching member of the Aurivillius family, has recently drawn extensive interest in visible‐light‐driven photocatalytic environmental remediation and energy conversion by right of its salient features such as fascinating layered structure, appropriate band potentials, nontoxicity, and excellent thermal and chemical inertness. Enormous endeavors have been devoted to breaking out of its inherent flaws to further improve its unsatisfactory photocatalytic activity. Herein, a general overview is given to summarize the recent advances in the surface/interface modification strategies for fabricating highly active Bi2MoO6‐based nanostructures. The means and mechanisms of surface and interface modifications are concluded and discussed in some detail, including morphology regulation, facet control, defect engineering, metal deposition, and semiconductor combination. Moreover, representative photocatalytic applications of Bi2MoO6‐based nanostructures are also dialectically introduced and categorized into two main types: environmental contaminant removal and renewable energy development. Herein, the current research status of Bi2MoO6‐based photocatalysts is highlighted, informing a broad range of researchers abreast of these significant fields, as well as casting a glance at the challenges and potential of this material.
The role of burden of disease assessment in tracking progress towards achieving WHO global air quality guidelines
Authors: Evangelopoulos Dimitris , Perez-Velasco Roman , Walton Heather , Gumy Sophie , Williams Martin , Kelly Frank J. , Künzli Nino
Published: October 2020

Objectives

More than 90% of the global population live in areas exceeding the PM2.5air quality guidelines (AQGs). We provide an overview of the ambient PM2.5-related burden of disease (BoD) studies along with scenario analysis in the framework of the WHO AQG update on the estimated reduction in the BoD if AQGs were achieved globally.

Methods

We reviewed the literature for large-scale studies for the BoD attributed to ambient PM2.5. Moreover, we used the latest WHO statistics to calculate the BoD at current levels and the scenarios of aligning with interim targets and AQG levels.

Results

The most recent BoD studies (2010 onwards) share a similar methodology, but there are differences in the input data which affect the estimates for attributable deaths (2.9–8.9 million deaths annually). Moreover, we found that if AQGs were achieved, the estimated BoD would be reduced by up to 50% in total deaths worldwide.

Conclusions

Understanding the BoD across countries, especially in those that do not align with the AQGs, is essential in order to inform actions to reduce air pollution globally.
Design of custom cranial prostheses combining manufacturing and drop test finite element simulations
Authors: Palumbo G. , Piccininni A. , Ambrogio G. , Sgambitterra E.
Published: October 2020

In this work, impact puncture tests (drop tests) have been used to both tune numerical models and correlate the performance of customised titanium cranial prostheses to the manufacturing process. In fact, experimental drop tests were carried out either on flat disk-shaped samples or on prototypes of titanium cranial prostheses (Ti-Gr5 and Ti-Gr23 were used) fabricated via two innovative sheet metal forming processes (the super plastic forming (SPF) and the single point incremental forming (SPIF)). Results from drop tests on flat disk-shaped samples were used to define the material behaviour of the two investigated alloys in the finite element (FE) model, whereas drop tests on cranial prostheses for validation purposes. Two different approaches were applied and compared for the FE simulation of the drop test: (i) assuming a constant thickness (equal to the one of the undeformed blank) or (ii) importing the thickness distribution determined by the sheet forming processes. The FE model of the drop test was used to numerically evaluate the effect of the manufacturing process parameters on the impact performance of the prostheses: SPF simulations were run changing the strain rate and the tool configuration, whereas SPIF simulations were run changing the initial thickness of the sheet and the forming strategy. The comparison between numerical and experimental data revealed that the performance in terms of impact response of the prostheses strongly depends on its thickness distribution, being strain hardening phenomena absent due to the working conditions adopted for the SPF process or to the annealing treatment conducted after the SPIF process. The manufacturing parameters/routes, able to affect the thickness distribution, can be thus effectively related to the mechanical performance of the prosthesis determined through impact puncture tests.
Approximation and characterization of Nash equilibria of large games
Authors: Carmona Guilherme , Podczeck Konrad
Published: October 2020

We characterize Nash equilibria of games with a continuum of players in terms of approximate equilibria of large finite games. This characterization precisely describes the relationship between the equilibrium sets of the two classes of games. In particular, it yields several approximation results for Nash equilibria of games with a continuum of players, which roughly state that all finite-player games that are sufficiently close to a given game with a continuum of players have approximate equilibria that are close to a given Nash equilibrium of the non-atomic game.
Improved cancer detection in Waldeyer’s tonsillar ring by 68Ga-FAPI PET/CT imaging
Authors: Serfling S. , Zhi Y. , Schirbel A. , Lindner T. , Meyer T. , Gerhard-Hartmann E. , Lapa C. , Hagen R. , Hackenberg S. , Buck A. K. , Scherzad A.
Published: October 2020

Purpose

In cancer of unknown primary (CUP), positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) with the glucose analog [18F]FDG represents the standard imaging approach for localization of the malignant primary. Frequently, however, [18F]FDG PET/CT cannot precisely distinguish between small occult tumors and chronic inflammation, especially in Waldeyer’s tonsillar ring. To improve the accuracy for detecting primary tumors in the Waldeyer’s tonsillar ring, the novel PET tracer [68Ga]Ga-FAPI-4 for specific imaging of fibroblast activation protein (FAP) expression was used as a more specific target for cancer imaging.

Methods

Eight patients with suspicion of a malignant tumor in Waldeyer’s tonsillar ring or a CUP syndrome were examined. PET/CT scans with [18F]-FDG and [68Ga]Ga-FAPI-4 were performed for pre-operative tumor localization. After surgical resection, histopathological and immunohistochemical results were compared to PET/CT findings.

Results

Histopathology revealed a palatine or lingual tonsil carcinoma in all patients. In case of lymph node metastases smaller than 7 mm in size, the [18F]FDG PET/CT detection rate of cervical lymph node metastases was higher than that of [68Ga]FAPI PET/CT, while both tracers identified the primary tumors in all eight cases. The size of the primary and the lymph node metastases was directly correlated to the respective FAP expression, as detected by immunohistochemistry. The mean SUVmax for the primary tumors was 21.29 ± 7.97 for 18F-FDG and 16.06 ± 6.29 for 68Ga-FAPI, respectively (p = 0.2). The mean SUVmax for the healthy contralateral tonsils was 8.38 ± 2.45 for [18F]FDG and 3.55 ± 0.47 for [68Ga]FAPI (p < 0.001). The SUVmax ratio of [68Ga]FAPI was significantly different from [18F] FDG (p = 0.03). Mean TBRmax for the [68Ga]Ga-FAPI-4 tracer was markedly higher in comparison to [18F]FDG (10.90 vs. 4.11).

Conclusion

Non-invasive imaging of FAP expression by [68Ga]FAPI PET/CT resulted in a better visual detection of the malignant primary in CUP, as compared to [18F]FDG imaging. However, the detection rate of lymph node metastases was inferior, presumably due to low FAP expression in small metastases. Nevertheless, by offering a detection method for primary tumors with the potential of lower false positive rates and thus avoiding biopsies, patients with CUP syndrome may benefit from [68Ga]FAPI PET/CT imaging.
The Usefulness of a Preoperative Nomogram for Predicting the Probability of Conversion from Laparoscopic to Open Distal Pancreatectomy: A Single‐Center Experience
Authors: Casadei Riccardo , Ricci Claudio , Ingaldi Carlo , Alberici Laura , Vaccaro Maria Chiara , Galasso Elisa , Minni Francesco
Published: October 2020

Background

Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy (LDP) represents a challenging procedure with a high conversion rate. A nomogram is a simple statistical predictive tool which is superior to risk groups. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a preoperative nomogram for predicting the probability of conversion from laparoscopic to open distal pancreatectomy.

Methods

This is a retrospective study of 100 consecutive patients who underwent LDP. For each patient demographic, pre‐intra‐ and postoperative data were collected. Univariate and multivariate analyses were carried out to identify the factors significantly influencing the conversion rate. The effect of each factor was weighted using the beta coefficient (β), and a nomogram was built. Finally, a logistic regression between the score and the conversion rate was carried out to calibrate the nomogram.

Results

The conversion rate was 19.0%. At multivariate analysis, female (β =  − 1.8 ± 0.9; P = 0.047) and tail location of the tumor (β =  − 2.1 ± 1.1; P = 0.050) were significantly related to a low probability of conversion. Body mass index (BMI) (β = 0.2 ± 0.1; P = 0.011) and subtotal pancreatectomy (β = 2.4 ± 0.9; P = 0.006) were factors independently related to a high probability of conversion. The nomogram constructed had a minimum value of 4 and a maximum value of 18 points. The probability of conversion increased significantly starting from a minimum score of 6 points (P = 0.029; conversion probability 14.4%; 95%CI, 1.5–27.3%) up to 16 (P = 0.048; 27.8%; 95%CI, 0.2–48.7%).

Conclusion

The nomogram proposed could serve as an effective preoperative tool capable of assessing the probability of conversion, allowing to take reliable decisions regarding indications and adequate stepwise training program of LDP.
Telemedizin in der Rheumatologie
Authors: Krusche M. , Mühlensiepen F. , Aries P. , Welcker M. , Knitza J.
Published: October 2020

Der Ausbruch der COVID-19-Pandemie geht mit tief greifenden Einschnitten im Alltag und im Berufsleben einher – sowohl gesamtgesellschaftlich als auch speziell im Gesundheitswesen. Im Fokus der Pandemieeindämmung haben sich vielerorts rheumatologische Routineabläufe verändert. Um den entsprechenden Infektionsschutz der Patienten und des medizinischen Personals gewährleisten zu können, wurde hier verstärkt Telemedizin (insbesondere Telefon- und Videosprechstunde) eingesetzt. Weiterhin stehen durch die Digitale-Gesundheitsanwendungen-Verordnung (DiGAV) voraussichtlich in den kommenden Monaten neue, abrechnungsfähige telemedizinische Anwendungsmöglichkeiten wie Apps und Wearables zur Verfügung. Der Artikel soll einen Überblick über telemedizinische Versorgungsmöglichkeiten in der Rheumatologie (mit besonderem Fokus auf die Videosprechstunde) geben. Weiterhin wird Bezug auf die vorhandene Evidenzlage sowie Chancen und Limitation der Telemedizin im Fachgebiet genommen.
Zum Verhältnis von Zinssatz und Wachstumsrate: Theorie und empirische Evidenz
Authors: von Weizsäcker Carl Christian , Krämer Hagen
Published: October 2020

Zussamenfassung

Wir setzen uns in diesem Beitrag mit einigen kritischen Kommentaren von Hans-Werner Sinn, Peter Bofinger und Eckhard Hein auseinander, die diese zu unserem Buch „Sparen und Investieren im 21. Jahrhundert — Die große Divergenz“ im Augustheft 2020 des Wirtschaftsdienst abgegeben haben. Wir befassen uns insbesondere mit dem umstrittenen Phänomen der dynamischen Ineffizienz, mit der Kritik an unserem Konzept der impliziten Staatsverschuldung, mit der Interpretation von ökonomischen Weltbildern sowie dem Vorwurf, monetäre Aspekte in unserer Theorie vernachlässigt zu haben.
Bitcoin, Libra und digitale Zentralbankwährungen — ein Geldsystem der Zukunft?
Authors: Groß Jonas , Herz Bernhard , Schiller Jonathan
Published: October 2020

Seit der Einführung von Bitcoin 2008 und vieler anderer Kryptowährungen ist eine neue Welle innovativer Zahlungsprojekte im Gange, darunter Innovationen wie Libra — als supranationaler Stablecoin konzipiert — und digitale Zentralbankwährungen. Diese privaten und öffentlichen Projekte sind durch verschiedene Wechselbeziehungen miteinander verbunden. Bitcoin hat sich bislang nicht zu einem weit verbreiteten Zahlungsmittel entwickelt, unter anderem wegen der erheblichen Preisvolatilität. Im Gegensatz dazu soll Libra ein eher konventionelles Zahlungsmittel mit engen Beziehungen zum bestehenden Bankensektor werden, was viele Fragen zur Geld- und Finanzstabilität aufwirft. Digitale Zentralbankwährungen könnten als Reaktion des öffentlichen Sektors auf diese privaten Projekte angesehen werden, um die vorherrschende Rolle der Zentralbanken im Währungssystem der Zukunft zu sichern.
Innovation and the commons: lessons from the governance of genetic resources in potato breeding
Authors: Beumer Koen , Stemerding Dirk , Swart Jac. A. A.
Published: October 2020

This article explores the relation between innovation and resources that are governed as commons by looking at the governance of potato genetic resources, especially in the context of the emergence ofhybrid diploid potato breedingthat will enable potato propagation through true seeds. As a new breeding tool, hybrid diploid potato breeding may not only revolutionize traditional potato breeding practices, it may also strongly affect current governance modes of potato genetic resources as a commons. Contrary to conventional accounts of the commons that treat technological innovation mainly as an exogenous factor, we argue that technological innovation can better be understood as an endogenous factor. In particular, we develop aco-production frameworkof innovation and the commons that draws attention to the different ways in which innovation, commons and its governance interact. Using this framework, we demonstrate that the constitution of potato genetic resources as a commons cannot be understood without considering the various ways in which technological innovation affects resources and mediate how these are governed. While reversely, technological innovations themselves are also enabled and constrained by users who govern potato genetic resources as a shared resource. We argue that changes in the governance of genetic resources can be understood as a change from one socio-technical constellation to another, whereby innovations, resources, and institutions are continuously co-produced.