bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Remnant Carcinoma in Situ at the Ductal Stump on Long‐Term Outcomes in Patients with Distal Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Yasukawa Koya , Shimizu Akira , Motoyama Hiroaki , Kubota Koji , Notake Tsuyoshi , Fukushima Kentaro , Ikehara Tomohiko , Hayashi Hikaru , Kobayashi Akira , Soejima Yuji
Published: September 2020

Background

The management of positive ductal margins with carcinoma in situ (R1‐CIS) after resection is controversial. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of R1‐CIS on survival in patients who underwent resection for distal cholangiocarcinoma.

Methods

We enrolled 121 consecutive patients with distal cholangiocarcinoma. Poor prognostic factors were investigated by multivariable analysis, and we performed a stratified analysis to evaluate the impact of R1‐CIS on survival in patients with or without prognostic factors.

Results

Multivariable analysis identified node‐positive status as the prognostic factor (P = 0.003). Stratified by lymph node status, overall survival (OS) in the R0 group was significantly better than that in the R1‐CIS group in node‐negative patients (57.1% vs 30.0%; P < 0.050). Although OS was comparable between the two groups in node‐positive patients (5‐year OS: 22.2% vs 20.0%, respectively; P = not significant). Furthermore, OS in patients in whom R0 was achieved by additional resection was significantly better than that in patients with R1‐CIS (5‐year OS: 66.7% vs 30.0%, respectively; P < 0.050).

Conclusions

Remnant CIS is associated with a poor prognosis in patients with node‐negative distal cholangiocarcinoma. Every effort should be made to achieve negative bile duct margins.
Pairwise relatedness testing in the context of inbreeding: expectation and variance of the likelihood ratio
Authors: Brustad Hilde Kjelgaard , Vigeland Magnus Dehli , Egeland Thore
Published: September 2020

In this paper we investigate various effects of inbreeding on the likelihood ratio (LR) in forensic kinship testing. The basic setup of such testing involves formulating two competing hypotheses, in the form of pedigrees, describing the relationship between the individuals. The likelihood of each hypothesis is computed given the available genetic data, and a conclusion is reached if the ratio of these exceeds some pre-determined threshold. An important aspect of this approach is that the hypotheses are usually not exhaustive: The true relationship may differ from both of the stated pedigrees. It is well known that this may introduce bias in the test results. Previous work has established formulas for the expected value and variance of the LR, given the two competing hypotheses and the true relationship. However, the proposed method only handles cases without inbreeding. In this paper we extend these results to all possible pairwise relationships. The key ingredient is formulating the hypotheses in terms of Jacquard coefficients instead of the more restricted Cotterman coefficients. While the latter describe the relatedness between outbred individuals, the more general Jacquard coefficients allow any level of inbreeding. Our approach also enables scrutiny of another frequently overlooked source of LR bias, namely background inbreeding. This ubiquitous phenomenon is usually ignored in forensic kinship computations, due to lack of adequate methods and software. By leveraging recent work on pedigrees with inbred founders, we show how background inbreeding can be modeled as a continuous variable, providing easy-to-interpret results in specific cases. For example, we show that if true siblings are subjected to a test for parent-offspring, moderate levels of background inbreeding are expected to inflate the LR by more than 50%.
Neonatal spectral EEG is prognostic of cognitive abilities at school age in premature infants without overt brain damage
Authors: Cainelli Elisa , Vedovelli Luca , Wigley Isabella Lucia Chiara Mariani , Bisiacchi Patrizia Silvia , Suppiej Agnese
Published: September 2020

Prematurity is a prototype of biological risk that could affect the late neurocognitive outcome; however, the condition itself remains a non-specific marker. This longitudinal 6-year study aimed to evaluate the prognostic role of neonatal spectral EEG in premature infants without neurological complications. The study cohort was 26 children born 23–34 gestational ages; all neonates underwent multichannel EEG recordings at 35 weeks post-conception. EEG data were transformed into the frequency domain and divided into delta (0.5–4 Hz), theta (5–7 Hz), alpha (8–13 Hz), and beta (14–20 Hz) frequency bands. At 6 years, a neuropsychological and behavioral evaluation was performed. Correlations between spectral bands and neuropsychological assessments were performed with a conservative and robust Bayesian correlation model using weakly informative priors. The correlation of neuropsychological tasks to spectral frequency bands highlighted a significant association with visual and auditory attention tests. The performance on the same tests appears to be mainly impaired.

Conclusions: We found that spectral EEG frequencies are independent predictors of performance in attention tasks. We hypothesized that spectral EEG might reflect early circuitries’ imbalance in the reticular ascending system and cumulative effect on ongoing development, pointing to the importance of early prognostic instruments.

What is Known:• Prematurity is a non-specific marker of late neurocognitive risk.• Precise prognostic instruments are lacking, mostly in patients with low-grade conditions.What is New:• Longitudinal long-term studies are scarce but crucial for the inferential attributive process.• Spectral EEG frequencies are independent predictors of performance in attention tasks.
Preoperative endoscopic marking of the gastrointestinal tract using fluorescence imaging: submucosal indocyanine green tattooing versus a novel fluorescent over-the-scope clip in a survival experimental study
Authors: Barberio Manuel , Pizzicannella Margherita , Spota Andrea , Ashoka Anila Hoskere , Agnus Vincent , Al Taher Mahdi , Jansen-Winkeln Boris , Gockel Ines , Marescaux Jacques , Swanström Lee , Kong Seong-Ho , Felli Eric , Klymchenko Andrey , Diana Michele
Published: September 2020

Background

Intraoperative localization of endoluminal lesions is can be difficult during laparoscopy. Preoperative endoscopic marking is therefore necessary. Current methods include submucosal tattooing using visible dyes, which in case of transmural injection can impair surgical dissection. Tattooing using indocyanine green (ICG) coupled to intraoperative near-infrared (NIR) laparoscopy has been described. ICG is only visible under NIR-light, therefore, it doesn’t impair the surgical workflow under white light even if there is spillage. However, ICG tattoos have rapid diffusion and short longevity. We propose fluorescent over-the-scope clips (FOSC), using a novel biocompatible fluorescent paint, as durable lesion marking.

Methods

In six pigs, gastric and colonic endoscopic tattoos using 0.05 mg/mL of ICG and markings using the fluorescent OSC were performed (T0). Simultaneously, NIR laparoscopy was executed. Follow-up laparoscopies were conducted at postoperative day (POD) 4–6 (T1) and POD 11–12 (T2). During laparoscopy, fluorescence intensity was assessed. In one human cadaver, FOSC was used to mark a site on the stomach and on the sigmoid colon, respectively. Intraoperative detection during NIR laparoscopy was assessed.

Results

Gastric and colonic ICG tattooing and OSC markings were easily visible using NIR laparoscopy on T0. All FOSC were visible at T1 and T2 in both stomach and colon, whereas the ICG tattooing at T1 was only visible in the stomach of 2 animals and in the colon of 3 animals. At T2, tattoos were not visible in any animal. FOSC were still visible in both stomach and colon of the human cadaver at 10 days.

Conclusion

Endoscopic marking using FOSC can be an efficient and durable alternative to standard methods.
Interim safety analysis of the first-in-human clinical trial of the Versius surgical system, a new robot-assisted device for use in minimal access surgery
Authors: Kelkar Dhananjay , Borse Mahindra A. , Godbole Girish P. , Kurlekar Utkrant , Slack Mark
Published: September 2020

Objective

The aim of this study was to provide an interim safety analysis of the first 30 surgical procedures performed using the Versius Surgical System.

Background

Robot-assisted laparoscopy has been developed to overcome some of the important limitations of conventional laparoscopy. The new system is currently undergoing a first-in-human prospective clinical trial to confirm the safety and effectiveness of the device when performing minimal access surgery (MAS).

Methods

Procedures were performed using Versius by a lead surgeon supported by an operating room (OR) team. Male or female patients aged between 18 and 65 years old and requiring elective minor or intermediate gynaecological or general surgical procedures were enrolled. The primary endpoint was the rate of unplanned conversion of procedures to other MAS or open surgery.

Results

The procedures included nine cholecystectomies, six robot-assisted total laparoscopic hysterectomies, four appendectomies, five diagnostic laparoscopy cases, two oophorectomies, two fallopian tube recanalisation procedures, an ovarian cystectomy and a salpingo-oophorectomy procedure. All procedures were completed successfully without the need for conversion to MAS or open surgery. No patient returned to the OR within 24 h of surgery and readmittance rate at 30 and 90 days post-surgery was 1/30 (3.3%) and 2/30 (6.7%), respectively.

Conclusions

This first-in-human interim safety analysis demonstrates that the Versius Surgical System is safe and can be used to successfully perform minor or intermediate gynaecological and general surgery procedures. The cases presented here provide evidence that the Versius clinical trial can continue to extend recruitment and begin to include major procedures, in alignment with the IDEAL-D Framework Stage 2b: Exploration.
Long-Term Impact of Liming on Soil C and N in a Fertile Spruce Forest Ecosystem
Authors: Persson T. , Andersson S. , Bergholm J. , Grönqvist T. , Högbom L. , Vegerfors B. , Wirén A.
Published: September 2020

Liming can counteract acidification in forest soils, but the effects on soil C and N pools and fluxes over long periods are less well understood. Replicated plots in an acidic and N-rich 40-year-old Norway spruce (Picea abies) forest in SW Sweden (Hasslöv) were treated with 0, 3.45 and 8.75 Mg ha−1of dolomitic lime (D0, D2 and D3) in 1984. Between 1984 and 2016, soil organic C to 30 cm depth increased by 28 Mg ha−1(30% increase) in D0 and decreased by 9 Mg ha−1(9.4% decrease) in D3. The change in D2 was not significant (+ 2 Mg ha−1). Soil N pools changed proportionally to those in soil C pools. The C and N changes occurred almost exclusively in the top organic layer. Non-burrowing earthworms responded positively to liming and stimulated heterotrophic respiration in this layer in both D2 and D3. Burrowing earthworms in D3 further accelerated C and N turnover and loss of soil. The high soil C and N loss at our relatively N-rich site differs from studies of N-poor sites showing no C and N loss. Earthworms need both high pH and N-rich food to reach high abundance and biomass. This can explain why liming of N-rich soils often results in decreasing C and N pools, whereas liming of N-poor soils with few earthworms will not show any change in soil C and N. Extractable nitrate N was always higher in D3 than in D2 and D0. After 6 years (1990), potential nitrification was much higher in D3 (197 kg N ha−1) than in D0 (36 kg N ha−1), but this difference decreased during the following years, when also the unlimed organic layers showed high nitrification potential. Our experiment finds that high-dose liming of acidic N-rich forest soils produces an initial pulse of soil heterotrophic respiration and increases in earthworm biomass, which together cause long-term declines in soil C and N pools.
In Vitro Calcification of Bioprosthetic Heart Valves: Test Fluid Validation on Prosthetic Material Samples
Authors: Kiesendahl N. , Schmitz C. , Menne M. , Schmitz-Rode T. , Steinseifer U.
Published: September 2020

Calcification is a major failure mode of bioprosthetic heart valves. So far, cost and time saving in vitro analyses of calcification potentials are unreliable, mostly due to superficial or spontaneous precipitation of the applied fluids. In this study, we developed a near-physiological non-spontaneously precipitating fluid for an accelerated in vitro calcification assessment, and validated it by analyzing the calcification potential of two prosthetic materials within two reference-tests. The first test focused on the comparison of four calcification fluids under dynamic contact with n=12 commercial bovine pericardium patches. The second one focused on the validation of the most appropriate fluid by analyzing the calcification potential of pericardium vs. polyurethane. The patches were mounted in separate test compartments and treated simultaneously with the respective fluids at an accelerated test frequency. Calcification propensity and progression were detected macroscopically and microscopically. Structural analyses of all deposits indicated hydroxyapatite by X-ray powder diffraction, which is also most commonly observed in vivo. Histological examination by von Kossa staining showed matrix internal and superficial calcifications, depending on the fluid composition. The present study reveals promising results towards the development of a meaningful, cost and time saving in vitro analysis of the calcification potential of bioprosthetic heart valves.
Predicting Academic Outcomes: A Survey from 2007 Till 2018
Authors: Alturki Sarah , Hulpuș Ioana , Stuckenschmidt Heiner
Published: September 2020

The tremendous growth of educational institutions’ electronic data provides the opportunity to extract information that can be used to predict students’ overall success, predict students’ dropout rate, evaluate the performance of teachers and instructors, improve the learning material according to students’ needs, and much more. This paper aims to review the latest trends in predicting students’ performance in higher education. We provide a comprehensive background for understanding Educational Data Mining (EDM). We also explain the measures of determining academic success and highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the most common data mining (DM) tools and methods used nowadays. Moreover, we provide a rich literature review of the EDM work that has been published during the past 12 years (2007–2018) with focus on the prediction of academic performance in higher education. We analyze the most commonly used features and methods in predicting academic achievement, and highlight the benefits of the mostly used DM tools in EDM. The results of this paper could assist researchers and educational planners who are attempting to carry out EDM solutions in the domain of higher education as we highlight the type of features that the previous researches found to have significant impact on the prediction, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of the DM methods and tools used for predicting academic outcomes.
Secret Hunger: The Case of Anorexia Nervosa
Authors: Giordano Simona
Published: September 2020

Anorexia nervosa is currently classed as a mental disorder. It is considered as a puzzling condition, scarcely understood and recalcitrant to treatment. This paper reviews the main hypotheses relating to the aetiology of anorexia nervosa. In particular, it focuses on family and sociological studies of anorexia. By reflecting on the hypotheses provided within these domains, and on the questions that these studies leave unanswered, this paper suggests that anorexic behaviour is understandable and rational, if seen in light of ordinary moral values.
Ambitious subsidy reform by the WTO presents opportunities for ocean health restoration
Authors: Costello Christopher , Millage Katherine , Eisenbarth Sabrina , Galarza Elsa , Ishimura Gakushi , Rubino Laura Lea , Saccomanno Vienna , Sumaila U. Rashid , Strauss Kent
Published: September 2020

The World Trade Organization (WTO) is in a unique position to deliver on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14.6 by reforming global fisheries subsidies in 2020. Yet, a number of unanswered questions threaten to inhibit WTO delegates from crafting a smart agreement that improves global fisheries health. We combine global data on industrial fishing activity, subsidies, and stock assessments to show that: (1) subsidies prop up fishing effort all across the world’s ocean and (2) larger subsidies tend to occur in fisheries that are poorly managed. When combined, this evidence suggests that subsidy reform could have geographically-extensive consequences for many of the world’s largest fisheries. While much work remains to establish causality and make quantitative predictions, this evidence informs the rapidly-evolving policy debate and we conclude with actionable policy suggestions.
Cryogenic Materials and Circuit Integration for Quantum Computers
Authors: Chien Wei-Chen , Jhan Shun-Jhou , Chiu Kuei-Lin , Liu Yu-xi , Kao Eric , Chang Ching-Ray
Published: September 2020

Over the last decade, quantum computing has experienced significant changes and captured worldwide attention. In particular, superconducting qubits have become the leading candidates for scalable quantum computers, and a number of cryogenic materials have scientifically demonstrated their potential uses in constructing qubit chips. However, because of insufficient coherence time, establishing a robust and scalable quantum platform is still a long-term goal. Another consideration is the control circuits essential to initializing, operating and measuring the qubits. To keep noise low, control circuits in close proximity to the qubits require superior reliability in the cryogenic environment. The realization of the quantum advantage demands qubits with appropriate circuitry designs to maintain long coherence times and entanglement. In this work, we briefly summarize the current status of cryogenic materials for qubits and discuss typical cryogenic circuitry designs and integration techniques for qubit chips. In the end, we provide an assessment of the prospects of quantum computers and some other promising cryogenic materials.
Determinants of adherence to physical cancer rehabilitation guidelines among cancer patients and cancer centers: a cross-sectional observational study
Authors: IJsbrandy Charlotte , Ottevanger Petronella B. , Gerritsen Winald R. , van Harten Wim H. , Hermens Rosella P. M. G.
Published: September 2020

Purpose

To tailor implementation strategies that maximize adherence to physical cancer rehabilitation (PCR) guidelines, greater knowledge concerning determinants of adherence to those guidelines is needed. To this end, we assessed the determinants of adherence to PCR guidelines in the patient and cancer center.

Methods

We investigated adherence variation of PCR guideline-based indicators regarding [1] screening with the Distress Thermometer (DT), [2] information provision concerning physical activity (PA) and physical cancer rehabilitation programs (PCRPs), [3] advice to take part in PA and PCRPs, [4] referral to PCRPs, [5] participation in PCRPs, and [6] PA uptake (PAU) in nine cancer centers. Furthermore, we assessed patient and cancer center characteristics as possible determinants of adherence. Regression analyses were used to determine associations between guideline adherence and patient and cancer center characteristics. In these analyses, we assumed the patient (level 1) nested within the cancer center (level 2).

Results

Nine hundred and ninety-nine patients diagnosed with cancer between January 2014 and June 2015 were included. Of the 999 patients included in the study, 468 (47%) received screening with the DT and 427 (44%) received information provision concerning PA and PCRPs. Subsequently, 550 (56%) patients were advised to take part in PA and PCRPs, which resulted in 174 (18%) official referrals. Ultimately, 280 (29%) patients participated in PCRPs, and 446 (45%) started PAU. Screening with the DT was significantly associated with information provision concerning PA and PCRPs (OR 1.99, 95% CI 1.47–2.71), advice to take part in PA and PCRPs (OR 1.79, 95% CI 1.31–2.45), referral to PCRPs (OR 1.81, 95% CI 1.18–2.78), participation in PCRPs (OR 2.04, 95% CI 1.43–2.91), and PAU (OR 1.69, 95% CI 1.25–2.29). Younger age, male gender, breast cancer as the tumor type, ≥2 cancer treatments, post-cancer treatment weight gain/loss, employment, and fatigue were determinants of guideline adherence. Less variation in scores of the indicators between the different cancer centers was found. This variation between centers was too low to detect any association between center characteristics with the indicators.

Conclusions

The implementation of PCR guidelines is in need of improvement. We found determinants at the patient level associated with guideline-based PCR care.

Implications for Cancer Survivors

Implementation strategies that deal with the determinants of adherence to PCR guidelines might improve the implementation of PCR guidelines and the quality of life of cancer survivors.
The CRADLE teaching methodology: developing foreign language and entrepreneurial skills in primary school pupils
Authors: Weicht Rebecca , Ivanova Irina , Gikopoulou Ourania
Published: September 2020

In recent years, a consensus has grown across the European Union that the acquisition of transversal skills—including foreign language and entrepreneurial skills—is key to the success of learners in their personal and professional life. The CRADLE teaching methodology for primary school teachers is the first teaching methodology to simultaneously foster both of these skill sets, employing a cross-curricular, activity-based, pupil-centred, exploratory teaching and learning approach based on a linear four-step process inspired by Design Thinking with problem-solving and designing solutions in mind. This article discusses the implementation of the CRADLE teaching methodology in six primary schools in three European countries. Based on an analysis of project plans, lesson observations and teachers’ feedback during the pilot stage of the methodology, we are able to demonstrate that the methodology is a flexible tool for developing students’ knowledge and skills. The observed results provide evidence of increased pupil interest and involvement, successful acquisition of foreign language and communication skills (accuracy and fluency in speaking, vocabulary development, ability to express opinions and ideas, answer questions and understand instructions) and emerging entrepreneurial skills such as self-efficacy, creativity, valuing ideas, taking initiatives, planning and management, and working with others.
Recommandations sur la prise en charge du cancer du pénis
Authors: Grobet-Jeandin Elisabeth
Published: September 2020

Le cancer du pénis est une pathologie relativement rare dans nos régions qui est souvent associée à une infection à HPV. Il se manifeste par une lésion de la verge, distale dans la majorité des cas. L’examen clinique local est essentiel pour réaliser le staging local, déterminant pour le bilan pré-opératoire. Le statut ganglionnaire inguinal doit également être systématique, étant donné que l’atteinte ganglionnaire est le facteur pronostic principal de la maladie.

Le traitement du cancer du pénis étant essentiellement chirurgical, il convient d’adresser tout patient présentant une lésion suspecte de tumeur de la verge à un urologue, pour que ce dernier réalise une biopsie avant d’envisager le traitement. Par la suite, la chirurgie sera le plus conservatrice possible. L’obtention de marges de résections négatives est impérative. Il existe plusieurs techniques de curage ganglionnaire (curage inguinal modifié, lymphadénectomie inguinale totale) qui sont appliquées selon le risque et le stade TNM (tumor, node, metastasis).

Le suivi post-opératoire est essentiellement clinique et comprend l’auto-examination régulière de la verge ainsi que des ganglions inguinaux, en association avec des visites médicales régulières jusqu’à cinq ans post-opératoires.
Peridynamic Higher-Order Beam Formulation
Authors: Yang Zhenghao , Oterkus Erkan , Oterkus Selda
Published: September 2020

In this study, a novel higher-order peridynamic beam formulation is presented. The formulation is obtained by using Euler-Lagrange equations and Taylor’s expansion. To demonstrate the capability of the presented approach, several different beam configurations are considered including simply supported beam subjected to distributed loading, simply supported beam with concentrated load, clamped-clamped beam subjected to distributed loading, cantilever beam subjected to a point load at its free end and cantilever beam subjected to a moment at its free end. Transverse displacement results along the beam obtained from peridynamics and finite element method are compared with each other and very good agreement is obtained between the two approaches.
Feedstock choice, pyrolysis temperature and type influence biochar characteristics: a comprehensive meta-data analysis review
Authors: Ippolito James A. , Cui Liqiang , Kammann Claudia , Wrage-Mönnig Nicole , Estavillo Jose M. , Fuertes-Mendizabal Teresa , Cayuela Maria Luz , Sigua Gilbert , Novak Jeff , Spokas Kurt , Borchard Nils
Published: September 2020

Various studies have established that feedstock choice, pyrolysis temperature, and pyrolysis type influence final biochar physicochemical characteristics. However, overarching analyses of pre-biochar creation choices and correlations to biochar characteristics are severely lacking. Thus, the objective of this work was to help researchers, biochar-stakeholders, and practitioners make more well-informed choices in terms of how these three major parameters influence the final biochar product. Utilizing approximately 5400 peer-reviewed journal articles and over 50,800 individual data points, herein we elucidate the selections that influence final biochar physical and chemical properties, total nutrient content, and perhaps more importantly tools one can use to predict biochar’s nutrient availability. Based on the large dataset collected, it appears that pyrolysis type (fast or slow) plays a minor role in biochar physico- (inorganic) chemical characteristics; few differences were evident between production styles. Pyrolysis temperature, however, affects biochar’s longevity, with pyrolysis temperatures > 500 °C generally leading to longer-term (i.e., > 1000 years) half-lives. Greater pyrolysis temperatures also led to biochars containing greater overall C and specific surface area (SSA), which could promote soil physico-chemical improvements. However, based on the collected data, it appears that feedstock selection has the largest influence on biochar properties. Specific surface area is greatest in wood-based biochars, which in combination with pyrolysis temperature could likely promote greater changes in soil physical characteristics over other feedstock-based biochars. Crop- and other grass-based biochars appear to have cation exchange capacities greater than other biochars, which in combination with pyrolysis temperature could potentially lead to longer-term changes in soil nutrient retention. The collected data also suggest that one can reasonably predict the availability of various biochar nutrients (e.g., N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, and Cu) based on feedstock choice and total nutrient content. Results can be used to create designer biochars to help solve environmental issues and supply a variety of plant-available nutrients for crop growth.
Bindung und Reinheit
Authors: Streck Bernhard
Published: September 2020

Im kanonischen Verständnis der Ethnologie ist Religion eine Unterkategorie der Kultur. In der globalistischen Perspektive auf Panmixie lösen sich beide Begriffe auf. Gleichsam als vorsichtige Rechtfertigung der zugegebenermaßen unpräzisen KategorienReligionundKulturmöchte ich ihren gemeinsamen Grund beleuchten, der zwischen Disziplinierung und Lebenshilfe verortet werden kann. Rückbindung an ein Urgeschehen vereint alle Religionen, das Streben nach Reinheit alle Kulturen. Wie dort das Wissen und Erinnern durch Ritus und Mythos am Leben erhalten werden muss, beharren Kulturen ungeachtet ihres synthetischen Aufbaus auf Alter und Authentizität. Die unverzichtbare, d. h. für ein Zusammenleben notwendige Gemeinsamkeit beider Sinnsetzungen liegt in der Disziplinierungsleistung. Religion wie Kultur schaffen Verbindlichkeit, reduzieren Unsicherheit im zwischenmenschlichen Verkehr, sanktionieren Abweichungen und erlauben, ja erzwingen Abgrenzungen gegen Unglauben oder Fremdheit – Qualitäten, die die einmal gestiftete Vertrauenslandschaft bedrohen.
On the specification property and synchronization of uniqueq-expansions
Authors: BARRERA RAFAEL ALCARAZ
Published: September 2020

Given a positive integerMand$q \in (1, M+1]$we consider expansions in baseqfor real numbers$x \in [0, {M}/{q-1}]$over the alphabet$\{0, \ldots , M\}$. In particular, we study some dynamical properties of the natural occurring subshift$(\boldsymbol{{V}}_q, \sigma )$related to unique expansions in such baseq. We characterize the set of$q \in \mathcal {V} \subset (1,M+1]$such that$(\boldsymbol{{V}}_q, \sigma )$has the specification property and the set of$q \in \mathcal {V}$such that$(\boldsymbol{{V}}_q, \sigma )$is a synchronized subshift. Such properties are studied by analysing the combinatorial and dynamical properties of the quasi-greedy expansion ofq. We also calculate the size of such classes as subsets of$\mathcal {V}$giving similar results to those shown by Blanchard [ 10 ] and Schmeling in [ 36 ] in the context of$\beta $-transformations.
Size distribution of Pacific cod (Gadus macrocephalus) in the North Pacific Ocean over 6 millennia
Authors: West Catherine F. , Etnier Michael A. , Barbeaux Steven , Partlow Megan A. , Orlov Alexei M.
Published: September 2020

In this paper, we compile estimates of cod size distributions based on zooarchaeological data and contemporary length-frequency data to look at variability in size composition through time across the North Pacific, from the northern Kuril Islands through the Aleutian Islands to southeast Alaska. The results suggest that a strong longitudinal trend in cod size has remained consistent over time, with the largest cod found to the west. We find that five of nine sites show that overall cod length and distribution of the largest fish remain relatively unchanged. Two sites where we find truncation of the length distributions—or loss of the largest fish—are places where the modern fisheries have the longest history and have been most intense, suggesting a potential for anthropogenic impacts on these local populations. We acknowledge two limitations in these data: (1) there are differences in selectivity between the ancient and modern fisheries; and (2) seasonal variability in fish availability was observed to be an important explanatory variable in the modern data set, but the season of harvest is poorly understood for the ancient collections. Therefore, while differences observed between the two data sets suggest possible anthropogenic influence on the size structure of Pacific cod, they are not conclusive.
Factors associated with adherence to a Mediterranean diet in adolescents from La Rioja (Spain)
Authors: Jiménez Boraita Raúl , Arriscado Alsina Daniel , Gargallo Ibort Esther , Dalmau Torres Josep María
Published: September 2020

The aim of the present study was to describe Mediterranean diet (MD) adherence within a population of adolescents and to analyse the association of multiple factors with adherence. This included a consideration of diverse physical and mental health indicators. The present study was conducted with a representative sample of 761 adolescents (14·51 (sd 1·63) years) from twenty-five educational centres in a northern region of Spain. MD adherence was evaluated, alongside their health-related quality of life, self-esteem, body image satisfaction, BMI, physical activity (PA) level, maximum oxygen consumption, hours of nightly sleep, socio-demographic factors and academic performance. Of the adolescent population, 49 % reported high MD adherence. Being female and having higher levels of PA were found to be predictive factors of adherence to the MD. In addition, maximum oxygen consumption, the presence of environments favourable towards PA engagement and higher self-esteem were also predictive in females, whilst better academic performance and more nightly sleep were additional predictors in males. The associations found between the MD and other health indicators and habits highlight the need to develop promotion strategies from an inter-disciplinary and transversal standpoint.
A randomized controlled trial of cognitive remediation and long-acting injectable risperidone after a first episode of schizophrenia: improving cognition and work/school functioning
Authors: Nuechterlein Keith H. , Ventura Joseph , Subotnik Kenneth L. , Gretchen-Doorly Denise , Turner Luana R. , Casaus Laurie R. , Luo John , Boucher Michael L. , Hayata Jacqueline N. , Bell Morris D. , Medalia Alice
Published: September 2020

Background

Cognitive deficits at the first episode of schizophrenia are predictive of functional outcome. Interventions that improve cognitive functioning early in schizophrenia are critical if we hope to prevent or limit long-term disability in this disorder.

Methods

We completed a 12-month randomized controlled trial of cognitive remediation and of long-acting injectable (LAI) risperidone with 60 patients with a recent first episode of schizophrenia. Cognitive remediation involved programs focused on basic cognitive processes as well as more complex, life-like situations. Healthy behavior training of equal treatment time was the comparison group for cognitive remediation, while oral risperidone was the comparator for LAI risperidone in a 2 × 2 design. All patients were provided supported employment/education to encourage return to work or school.

Results

Both antipsychotic medication adherence and cognitive remediation contributed to cognitive improvement. Cognitive remediation was superior to healthy behavior training in the LAI medication condition but not the oral medication condition. Cognitive remediation was also superior when medication adherence and protocol completion were covaried. Both LAI antipsychotic medication and cognitive remediation led to significantly greater improvement in work/school functioning. Effect sizes were larger than in most prior studies of first-episode patients. In addition, cognitive improvement was significantly correlated with work/school functional improvement.

Conclusions

These results indicate that consistent antipsychotic medication adherence and cognitive remediation can significantly improve core cognitive deficits in the initial period of schizophrenia. When combined with supported employment/education, cognitive remediation and LAI antipsychotic medication show separate significant impact on improving work/school functioning.
Factors related to follicular oxidative stress in intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles and its effects on granulosa cells
Authors: Karabulut Seda , Korkmaz Oya , Kutlu Pelin , Keskin Ilknur
Published: September 2020

The aim of the present study was to investigate several common conditions that may potentially be correlated with follicular oxidative status during an intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycle and that include the serum oestrogen level on the day of oocyte pick-up, maternal age and pregnancy outcome. Patients that were enrolled in the study were classified randomly into three groups using their numerical order. The first group were classified based on maternal age (<35 and ≥35 years) (n = 398), the second group on the serum oestradiol (E2) level on the day of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) administration (levels >90th percentile and ≤ 90th percentile) (n = 491) and the third group on pregnancy outcome (positive/negative) (n = 376). The groups were matched for the other variables (stimulation protocol, dose of gonadotropin, duration of stimulation, antral follicle count, body mass index, basal follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), and E2 levels and day of hCG trigger) to prevent the possible contribution of those parameters to the results. Each group was matched for other variables (stimulation protocol, dose of gonadotrophin, duration of stimulation, antral follicle count, body mass index, basal FSH and E2 levels and day of hCG trigger) that may have affected the outcome, except for the parameter under investigation. Maternal age (P = 0.044,168 r = 0.418), oestrogen level on day of hCG administration (P = 0.001, r = 0.436) and pregnancy outcome (AUC = 0.65, P = 0.071) were found to be correlated with follicular oxidative status. The results obtained will help us to shield patients from possible situations that may cause oxidative stress and therefore adverse outcomes of an ICSI cycle.
Rapid progression of mitral valve disease in a child with Noonan syndrome
Authors: Doctor Pezad N. , Lawrence David K. , Misra Amrit
Published: September 2020

Noonan syndrome is the second most common genetic syndrome associated with congenital heart disease after Trisomy 21. The two most common cardiac lesions associated with Noonan syndrome are pulmonary stenosis and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Although the incidence of mitral valve disease in Noonan syndrome ranges between 2 and 6%, rapid progression of mitral valve dysplasia causing severe mitral valve regurgitation and left atrial dilatation is seldom seen. Most cases of mitral valve disease have been diagnosed either on routine echocardiographic surveillance or when presented with heart failure symptoms. We describe an 18-month-old boy with Noonan syndrome presenting in atrial flutter due to a massively enlarged left atrium caused by severe mitral valve regurgitation which developed and progressed in less than 17 months.
Audiovisual Consults by Paramedics to Reduce Hospital Transport After Low-Urgency Calls: Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Sykora Roman , Renza Metodej , Ruzicka Jiri , Bakurova Petra , Kukacka Milos , Smetana Jiri , Duska Frantisek
Published: September 2020

Introduction:

The effect and subjective perception of audiovisual consults (AVCs) by paramedics with a distant physician in prehospital emergency care (PHEC) remain unexplained, especially in low-urgency calls.

Objectives:

The primary objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of AVCs by paramedics with a base physician on the rate of patients treated on site without the need of hospital transfer. The co-primary safety outcome was the frequency of repeated ambulance trips within 48 hours to the same patient. Secondary objective was the qualitative analysis of perception of the AVCs.

Methods:

During a six-week period, the dispatching center of Karlovy Vary Emergency Medical Service (EMS) randomized low-urgency events from a rural area (n = 791) to receive either a mandatory phone-call consult (PHONE), AVC (VIDEO), or performed by the paramedic crew in a routine manner, when phone-call consultation is for paramedic crew optional (CONTROL). Secondarily, the qualitative analysis of subjective perception of AVCs compared to consultation over the phone by the paramedic and consulting physician was performed.

Results:

Per-protocol analysis (PPA) was performed (CONTROL, n = 258; PHONE, n = 193; and VIDEO, n = 192) in addition to the intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis. Patients (PPA) in both mandatory consulted groups were twice as likely to be treated and left on site compared to the CONTROL (PHONE: OR = 2.07; 95% CI, 1.19 to 3.58; P = 0.01 or VIDEO: OR = 2.01; 95% CI, 1.15 to 3.49; P = .01). Repeated trips to patients treated and left on site in 48 hours occurred in three (8.6%) of 35 cases in the PHONE group and in eight (23.5%) of 34 cases in the VIDEO group.

Conclusions:

The AVCs of the emergency physician by paramedics was not superior to the mandatory conventional phone call in increasing the proportion of patients treated and left at home after a low-urgency call. The AVC improved the subjective feelings of safety by physicians, but not the satisfaction of patients or paramedics, and may lead to an increased need of repeated trips.
Submesoscale Kinematic Properties in Summer and Winter Surface Flows in the Northern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Berta M. , Griffa A. , Haza A. C. , Horstmann J. , Huntley H. S. , Ibrahim R. , Lund B. , Özgökmen T. M. , Poje A. C.
Published: September 2020

Statistical properties of near‐surface horizontal velocity gradients are obtained from four drifter experiments conducted in the Gulf of Mexico during Summer 2012 and Winter 2016. The data density provided by the near‐simultaneous deployments of 90‐326 surface drifters in each allows direct, drifter‐based estimates of the scale dependence of velocity gradients at separation scales ranging from 200 m to 5 km. The robustness of these estimates, derived from uniquley sampled, nearly equilateral triplets, is confirmed by comparisons with estimates produced from larger drifter clusters, and with estimates based on concurrent Eulerian X‐band radar observations. The winter launches were deployed above a ∼80 m deep mixed layer, one in a region with nearly homogeneous horizontal density structure, the other in a region of strong surface density gradients associated with filaments of fresh Mississippi River water. The summer launches occurred in a shallow (10m) mixed layer, one launched across a mesoscale frontal jet separating regions of horizontally homogeneous density and the other, similar to the corresponding winter launch, also in a region filamented by shallow lenses of cold, fresh water. Seasonal differences are observed, with larger velocity fluctuations and greater variance in divergence and vorticity, especially at the smallest scales, in winter. Differences between same‐season launches are, however, as large as seasonal differences. In both seasons, observations sampling regions directly impacted by fresh water fluxes show strongly skewed vorticity distributions, with cyclonic vorticity dominating strain. For the other launches, one in each season, strain dominated minimally skewed vorticity.
Microbial therapeutics for acute colitis based on genetically modified Lactococcus lactis hypersecreting IL-1Ra in mice
Authors: Namai Fu , Shigemori Suguru , Ogita Tasuku , Sato Takashi , Shimosato Takeshi
Published: September 2020

The increased incidence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in Western and rapidly Westernizing developing countries poses a global pandemic threat. The development of affordable drugs for treating IBD worldwide is thus a priority. Genetically modified lactic acid bacteria (gmLAB) as microbial therapeutics are inexpensive protein producers suitable for use as carriers of protein to the intestinal mucosa. Here, we successfully constructed gmLAB hypersecreting interleukin 1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra). Oral administration of these gmLAB suppressed body weight reduction and exacerbation of the disease activity index score in mice with acute colitis and decreased the number of CD4+IL-17A+cells in the mesenteric lymph nodes. These data suggest that the gmLAB deliver IL-1Ra to the colon, where it inhibits IL-1 signaling. We thus developed a novel IBD therapeutic that blocks IL-1 signaling using a gmLAB protein delivery system. This system could be an inexpensive oral microbial therapeutic.
Loss of desmoglein-2 promotes gallbladder carcinoma progression and resistance to EGFR-targeted therapy through Src kinase activation
Authors: Lee Sang-Hyun , Kim Jin-Man , Lee Dong Gwang , Lee Jangwook , Park Jong-Gil , Han Tae-Su , Cho Hyun-Soo , Cho Young-Lai , Bae Kwang-Hee , Park Young-Jun , Lee Seon-Jin , Lee Moo-Seung , Huh Yong-Min , Jo Deog Yeon , Yun Hwan-Jung , Jeon Heung Jin , Kim Nayoung , Joo Mina , Kim Jang-Seong , Lee Hyo Jin , Min Jeong-Ki
Published: September 2020

Gallbladder carcinoma (GBC) exhibits poor prognosis due to local recurrence, metastasis, and resistance to targeted therapies. Using clinicopathological analyses of GBC patients along with molecular in vitro and tumor in vivo analysis of GBC cells, we showed that reduction of Dsg2 expression was highly associated with higher T stage, more perineural, and lymphatic invasion. Dsg2-depleted GBC cells exhibited significantly enhanced proliferation, migration, and invasiveness in vitro and tumor growth and metastasis in vivo through Src-mediated signaling activation. Interestingly, Dsg2 binding inhibited Src activation, whereas its loss activated cSrc-mediated EGFR plasma membrane clearance and cytoplasmic localization, which was associated with acquired EGFR-targeted therapy resistance and decreased overall survival. Inhibition of Src activity by dasatinib enhanced therapeutic response to anti-EGFR therapy. Dsg2 status can help stratify predicted patient response to anti-EGFR therapy and Src inhibition could be a promising strategy to improve the clinical efficacy of EGFR-targeted therapy.
Material design of nanocellulose/polymer composites via Pickering emulsion templating
Authors: Fujisawa Shuji
Published: September 2020

Cellulose nanofiber (CNF) is a crystalline fiber composed of a bundle of cellulose molecular chains and is expected to be used as a new biomass-derived nanomaterial. The CNF has a unique morphology: a few to tens of nanometer width and a submicrometer to micrometer length. Its application to various materials, in particular its utilization as a polymer reinforcing material, has been anticipated due to its excellent mechanical properties. However, CNFs and plastics are generally hard to mix, and thus, it is difficult to combine them at the nanolevel. In this review, we describe the CNF/polymer nanocompositing process from Pickering emulsion. We use ~3 nm-wide wood-derived CNFs and report on the preparation of CNF/polymer homogenous composite films. We also introduce a new type of CNF/polymer composite, a core-shell microparticle, using this Pickering emulsion as a template.
Keep it simple: streamlining book illustrations improves attention and comprehension in beginning readers
Authors: Eng Cassondra M. , Godwin Karrie E. , Fisher Anna V.
Published: September 2020

This study used eye-tracking to examine whether extraneous illustration details—a common design in beginning reader storybooks—promote attentional competition and hinder learning. The study used a within-subject design with first- and second-grade children. Children (n = 60) read a story in a commercially available Standard condition and in a Streamlined condition, in which extraneous illustrations were removed while an eye-tracker recorded children’s gaze shifts away from the text, fixations to extraneous illustrations, and fixations to relevant illustrations. Extraneous illustrations promoted attentional competition and hindered reading comprehension: children made more gaze shifts away from text in the Standard compared to the Streamlined condition, and reading comprehension was significantly higher in the Streamlined condition compared to the Standard condition. Importantly, fixations toward extraneous details accounted for the unique variance in reading comprehension controlling for reading proficiency and attending to relevant illustrations. Furthermore, a follow-up control experiment (n = 60) revealed that these effects did not solely stem from enhanced text saliency in the Streamlined condition and reproduced the finding of a negative relationship between fixations to extraneous details and reading comprehension. This study provides evidence that the design of reading materials can be optimized to promote literacy development in young children.