bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Congenital toxoplasmosis: What is the evidence for chemoprophylaxis to prevent fetal infection?
Authors: Mandelbrot Laurent
Published: May 2020

Although prenatal diagnosis and prenatal and neonatal therapy of congenital toxoplasmosis are available, there is controversy concerning the effectiveness of prophylaxis to prevent placental transmission. Experimental, parasitological, and clinical data suggest a “window of opportunity” following maternal infection. Among medications active against Toxoplasma gondii, mainly spiramycin (Spy) and pyrimethamine + sulfonamide combinations (P‐S) have been evaluated. Results from observational studies suffered treatment bias, since prescriptions differed according to the gestational age at seroconversion, which is the major risk factor for transmission, and many lacked precise timing. Some large retrospective studies found no difference in transmission according to prophylactic treatment, but transmission was lower when treatment started promptly after maternal seroconversion. A few recent studies adjusting for timing of infection observed lower transmission in case of P‐S than other or no prophylaxis. In the only randomized controlled trial, transmission was lower with P‐S than S (18.5% vs 30%, P = .147); this association was strengthened when the treatment was started within 3 weeks of seroconversion, and the incidence of fetal cerebral ultrasound signs was significantly reduced in the P‐S group. Rapid initiation of prophylactic therapy following maternal infection, which is usually asymptomatic, requires systematic screening for maternal seroconversion during pregnancy.
Cyclic polymers: Advances in their synthesis, properties, and biomedical applications
Authors: Liénard Romain , De Winter Julien , Coulembier Olivier
Published: May 2020

Since the time first synthetic macrocycles were observed as academic curiosities, great advances have been made. Thanks to the development of controlled polymerization processes, new catalytic systems and characterization techniques during the last decades, well‐defined cyclic polymers are now readily accessible. This further permits the determination of their unique set of properties, mainly due to their lack of chain ends, and their use for industrial applications can now be foreshadowed. This review aims to give an overview on the recent progresses in the field of ring polymers to this day. The current state of the art of the preparation of cyclic polymers, the challenges related to it such as the purification of the samples and the scalability of the synthetic processes, the properties arising from the cyclic topology and the potential use of cyclo‐based polymers for biomedical applications are as many topics covered in this review.
Exercise testing for children with cystic fibrosis: A systematic review
Authors: Lang Ray Lei , Stockton Kellie , Wilson Christine , Russell Trevor Glen , Johnston Leanne Marie
Published: May 2020

Background

Exercise testing is routinely used to measure exercise capacity in children with cystic fibrosis (CF). Various tests are available, however the psychometric properties of these measures have not been systematically reviewed for this population.

Method

A systematic search of electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Medline, CINHAL, Cochrane, and PEDro) was performed to identify papers that: (a) reported original psychometric data, (b) examined a measure of exercise capacity, (c) examined children with CF aged eight to 18 years; and (d) were published in English after 1950. The level of psychometric evidence was evaluated using the COnsensus‐based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) checklist.

Results

Searches identified 1025 papers. Forty‐six papers were included, covering 15 tests: incremental cardiopulmonary exercise test using a cycle ergometer (CPET(cycle)) or treadmill (CPET(treadmill)), 6 minute walk test (6MWT), modified shuttle test (MST), 3‐minute step test (3MST), 2 minute walk test (2MWT), Bratteby walk test, intermittent sprint test, speed ramp test, incremental step test, forward‐backwards jump test (FBJT), astride jump test (AJT), motor quotient test, Munich fitness test, and Glittre ADL test.

Conclusion

There is a plethora of exercise tests available with varying psychometric robustness. The CPET, 6MWT, and MST have fair to good psychometric properties, but each with their clinical advantages and limitations. Thus, a Selection Guide was developed to assist clinicians and researchers in selecting the most appropriate exercise test for various situations.
Trypsin inhibitor from Enterolobium contortisiliquum seeds impairs Aedes aegypti development and enhances the activity of Bacillus thuringiensis toxins
Authors: Tabosa Pedro M S , Almeida Filho Luiz C P , Franca Rute X , Rocha‐Bezerra Lady Clarissa B , Vasconcelos Ilka M , Carvalho Ana F U
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Disease vector insects are barriers for human development. The use of synthetic chemicals to control these vectors has caused damage to the environment and contributed to the arising of resistant insect populations. This has led to an increased search for plant‐derived molecules with insecticidal activity or that show synergistic effects with known insecticidal substances, such as protease inhibitors. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the effect of Enterolobium contortisiliquum trypsin inhibitor (EcTI) on Aedes aegypti development as well as its effect on insecticidal activity of Bacillus thuringiensis toxins.

RESULTS

EcTI showed an apparent molecular mass about of 20 kDa in SDS‐PAGE and was able to inhibit in vitro the activity of trypsin and proteases from midgut of Ae. aegypti larvae. EcTI was not able to cause acute toxicity on mosquito larvae even at 1000 μg mL−1, however it promoted a delay in larval development after prolonged exposure. The zymogram results for EcTI‐treated larvae (from 50 to 200 μg mL−1) showed an increase of midgut proteases activity as a larvae defense mechanism, however no changes in the enzyme profile was observed. These same concentrations were able to enhance up to three fold the insecticidal activity of B. thuringiensis toxins without causing toxicity to Artemia sp. nauplii, a non‐target organism.

CONCLUSIONS

The results offer a novel approach by combining EcTI and B. thuringiensis toxins for combating Ae. aegypti larvae. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Metribuzin resistance via enhanced metabolism in a multiple herbicide resistant Lolium rigidum population
Authors: Ma Hongju , Lu Huan , Han Heping , Yu Qin , Powles Stephen
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

The photosystem II (PSII)‐inhibiting herbicides are important for Australian farmers to control Lolium rigidum Gaud. and other weed species in trazine tolerant (TT)‐canola fields. A L. rigidum population (R) collected from a TT‐canola field from Western Australia showed multiple resistance to PSII, acetyl‐coenzyme A carboxylase (ACCase) and acetolactate synthase (ALS) inhibitors. The mechanisms of multiple resistance in this R population were determined.

RESULTS

The R population showed a low‐level (about 3.0‐fold) resistance to the PSII‐inhibiting herbicides metribuzin and atrazine. Sequencing of the psbA gene revealed no differences between the R and susceptible (S) sequences. Furthermore, [14C]‐metribuzin experiments found no significant difference in metribuzin foliar uptake and translocation between the R and S plants. However, [14C]‐metribuzin metabolism in R plants was 2.3‐fold greater than in S plants. The cytochrome P450 monooxygenase inhibitor piperonyl butoxide (PBO) enhanced plant mortality response to metribuzin and atrazine in both R and S populations. In addition, multiple resistance to ALS and ACCase inhibitors are due to known resistance mutations in ALS and ACCase genes.

CONCLUSION

The results demonstrate that enhanced metribuzin metabolism likely involving cytochrome P450 monooxygenase contributes to metribuzin resistance in Lolium rigidum. This is the first report of metabolic resistance to the PSII‐inhibiting herbicide metribuzin in Australian Lolium rigidum. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Electronic States of Al–Mg–Zn Quasicrystal and Its Approximant Based on First‐Principles Calculations
Authors: Saito Masaki , Sekikawa Takuya , Ōno Yoshiaki
Published: May 2020

First‐principles calculations are performed to investigate the electronic states of 1/1 and 2/1 approximants with the composition Al15Zn40Mg45, which is close to the quasicrystal (QC) Al14.9Zn41.0Mg44.1 in which the superconductivity recently has been discovered. The density of states for the 1/1 approximant shows a wide pseudogap structure near the Fermi level as commonly observed in various approximants of the QCs, whereas those for the 2/1 approximant do not show such a wide pseudogap. Instead of the wide pseudogap, the 2/1 approximant shows a remarkable narrow pseudogap at the Fermi level in contrast to the 1/1 approximant, which shows a shallow hump at the Fermi level within the wide pseudogap. This seems to be consistent with the experimental observation of the electrical resistivity, which increases with decreasing temperature from room temperature down to around the superconducting transition temperature for the 2/1 approximant together with the QC, whereas it monotonically decreases for the 1/1 approximant.
Solution Processed Organic Transistors on Polymeric Gate Dielectric with Mobility Exceeding 15 cm2 V−1 s−1
Authors: Bilgaiyan Anubha , Cho Seung-Il , Abiko Miho , Watanabe Kaori , Mizukami Makoto
Published: May 2020

Herein, 6,6′ bis (trans‐4‐pentylcyclohexyl)‐dinaphtho[2,1‐b:2′,1′‐f ]thieno[3,2‐b]thiophene (5H‐21DNTT)—a solution‐processable derivative of DNTT—is characterized and studied for its potential as a crystalline solution‐processed organic semiconductor to achieve high mobility and stable organic thin‐film transistor (OTFT) operation. The performance of a bottom‐gate, bottom‐contact OTFT with a 5H‐21DNTT semiconductor is analyzed with different polymeric organic gate dielectrics via various solution‐processed techniques. In comparison to other polymeric gate dielectrics, Parylene C exhibited a superior performance for 5H‐21DNTT OTFT devices, and the OTFT devices show a remarkable average mobility of 10.9 cm2 V−1 s−1, as well as a maximum mobility exceeding 15 cm2 V−1 s−1, with a 100% reliability factor.
Construction of Strandberg‐Type Polyoxometalate‐Based Inorganic‐Organic Hybrid Material with Water‐Assisted Proton Conductivity
Authors: Wang Jia–Xuan , Liang Song , Tan Huaqiao , Wang Yong–Hui , Zang Hong–Ying , Li Yang–Guang
Published: May 2020

Polyoxometalates (POMs) were widely applied in the field of proton conduction due to their rapid charge transfer capability and large proton capacity. The Strandberg‐type POM has small size and large charge density, can form functional organometallic compounds with metal ions. In this study, by using [P2Mo5O23]6− coordinate with the cobalt ion with cytosine as the structure‐directing agent, a compound of Co1.5(C4H6N3O)3[P2Mo5O23]⋅8.5H2O was synthesized, which showed one‐dimensional chain structure and exhibits proton conductivity of 3.62 × 10−4 S cm−1 at 98 °C and 97% RH. The amino group and nitrogen atoms in the cytosine can form hydrogen bond with the coordination water molecules. Meanwhile, the hydrogen bond network can also be formed between the water molecules, which is one of the main factors for proton conduction performance. The compound Co1.5(C4H6N3O)3[P2Mo5O23]⋅8.5H2O exhibited the corresponding activation energies and conduction mechanisms at different temperature intervals, by analyzing the temperature‐dependent PXRD spectrum under high‐humidity conditions, which showed the hydrogen bond network of the crystal during the temperature changes affects its proton conduction performance.
Phosphoric Acid Functionalized Nanostructured Heterogeneous Catalyst for Multicomponent Synthesis of 2‐Amino‐4H‐chromene
Authors: Kalita Priyanka , Rani Das Doli , Kumar Talukdar Anup
Published: May 2020

Functionalization of synthesized mesoporous MCM‐48 was performed using phosphoric acid via post synthesis modification method and characterized using different analytical techniques. The acidic character of the phosphoric acid modified material was enhanced compared to parent MCM‐48 as predicted from the Ammonia‐Temperature Programmed Desorption (NH3‐TPD) analysis. The catalytic activity of the synthesized materials was investigated for the synthesis of 2‐amino‐4H‐chromene via one pot three component reaction using aldehyde, malononitrile and dimedone using ethanol as solvent at 60 °C. Moderate to good yields of the desired products were obtained with substituted benzaldehyde under the optimized reaction condition. Moreover, reusability of the catalyst was also demonstrated upto five catalytic cycles with minimal loss in catalytic activity.
Noscapine‐Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carriers as a Potential Topical Delivery to Bovine Mastitis Treatment
Authors: Otarola Jessica J. , Alejandra Luna Maria , Mariano Correa Néstor , Molina Patricia G.
Published: May 2020

Noscapine (NO) is a lipophilic benzylisoquinoline alkaloid with antioxidant, antitussive and anti‐cancer properties. This study aimed to incorporate this alkaloid into an innovative topical gel‐based on nanostructured lipid carrier (NLCs) to facilitate its incorporation and distribution into the organism to bovine mastitis treatment.

Drug release studies were carried out using square wave voltammetry (SWV) as an alternative technique. The NLCs showed a 100 % encapsulation efficiency and, a fast release profile, releasing 86.7 % of the incorporated NO in 5 hours.

On the other hand, the lipid nanoparticles′ stability was analyzed using SWV and transmission electron microscope techniques. For these studies, NLCs with and without NO incorporated were immobilized onto a carbon paste electrode and exposed to free radicals attack. The stability studies were assisted with dynamic light scattering.

The results reveal a promising alternative drug delivery system for NO topical application.
Design, Synthesis and Cytotoxic Activities of Pyrazole‐Perimidine Hybrids
Authors: Gümüş Mehmet , Gümüş Nisa , Eroğlu Halil Erhan , Koca İrfan
Published: May 2020

The hybrid molecules are one of the powerful tools used in the new drug discovery. In this work, nine perimidine‐pyrazole hybrids were designed and synthesized. All structures of the novel compounds were characterized elemental analysis, FTIR, NMR and HRMS. Genotoxic, mutagenic and carcinogenic effects of two of the synthesized compounds were evaluated. The tested compounds could cause chromosomal damage by genotoxic potential and mitotic delay by cytotoxic potential at high concentrations (25‐100 μM).
Electrochemically Induced Facile and Efficient Multicomponent Approach to Medicinally Relevant 4‐[4‐oxo‐4H‐pyran‐2‐yl](aryl)‐methylisoxazol‐5(2H)‐one Scaffold
Authors: Elinson Michail N. , Ryzhkova Yuliya E. , Ryzhkov Fedor V. , Vereshchagin Anatoly N. , Leonova Natalia A. , Egorov Mikhail P.
Published: May 2020

The new electrochemically induced multicomponent assembling has been accomplished: the electrocatalytic transformation of aldehydes, 3‐aryl‐substituted isoxazol‐5(4H)‐ones and kojic acid has been carried out in alcohols in an undivided cell

in the presence of sodium halides. This transformation proceeds with the selective formation of the earlier unknown substituted 4‐{[3‐hydroxy‐6‐(hydroxymethyl)‐4‐oxo‐4H‐pyran‐2‐yl]‐(aryl)methyl}‐isoxazol‐5(2H)‐ones in 57–93 % yields with 190–310 % current efficiency. This new electrocatalytic process provides a facile and efficient way to the separated by C‐aryl‐substituted spacer 3‐arylisoxazol‐5(4H)‐one and kojic acid pharmacology active heterocyclic fragments, which are promising compounds for different biomedical applications, and, in particular, for regulation of inflammatory as was shown by docking studies in this research.
Managing Phase Purities and Crystal Orientation for High‐Performance and Photostable Cesium Lead Halide Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Qiong , Smith Joel A. , Skroblin Dieter , Steele Julian A. , Wolff Christian M. , Caprioglio Pietro , Stolterfoht Martin , Köbler Hans , Li Meng , Turren-Cruz Silver-Hamill , Gollwitzer Christian , Neher Dieter , Abate Antonio
Published: May 2020

Inorganic perovskites with cesium (Cs+) as the cation have great potential as photovoltaic materials if their phase purity and stability can be addressed. Herein, a series of inorganic perovskites is studied, and it is found that the power conversion efficiency of solar cells with compositions CsPbI1.8Br1.2, CsPbI2.0Br1.0, and CsPbI2.2Br0.8 exhibits a high dependence on the initial annealing step that is found to significantly affect the crystallization and texture behavior of the final perovskite film. At its optimized annealing temperature, CsPbI1.8Br1.2 exhibits a pure orthorhombic phase and only one crystal orientation of the (110) plane. Consequently, this allows for the best efficiency of up to 14.6% and the longest operational lifetime, TS80, of ≈300 h, averaged of over six solar cells, during the maximum power point tracking measurement under continuous light illumination and nitrogen atmosphere. This work provides essential progress on the enhancement of photovoltaic performance and stability of CsPbI3 − xBrx perovskite solar cells.
Das Stahldach der BCF‐Arena in Fribourg, Schweiz
Authors: Guscetti Gabriele , Pirazzi Claudio , Degani Nicola , Hess Ivan , Valeiras Oscar , Sottas Solenghi Laure , Gremaud Antoine
Published: May 2020

Der folgende Beitrag befasst sich mit der Tragwerkskonzeption sowie mit der Ausführung des Stahldachs der BCF‐Arena im schweizerischen Fribourg. Das Tragwerk überspannt eine Gesamtfläche von etwa 8 500 m2 und wird aus einem Netz sich kreuzender, unterspannter Stahlträger mit veränderlicher Höhe gebildet. Diese verlaufen tangential um den ovalen Zentralring. Ihre geometrische Anordnung folgt dem Prinzip der Spannungstrajektorien. Zur Optimierung der Spanngliedgeometrie kam ein Formfindungsprozess unter Ansatz der dynamischen Relaxation zum Einsatz. Aufgrund der vielen verschiedenen Einflussparameter und in Anbetracht der komplexen Geometrie wurde das Dachtragwerk komplett parametrisch modelliert. Dies ermöglichte die schnelle Studie verschiedener Varianten sowie einen äußerst effizienten Austausch zwischen Geometrie‐ und Rechenmodellen bis hin zur Fabrikation der Einzelkomponenten. Mithilfe dieses Werkzeugs war es möglich, den sehr ambitiösen Terminplan einzuhalten.
Label‐free laser scanning microscopy targeting sentinel lymph node diagnostics: A feasibility study ex vivo
Authors: Kantere Despoina , Siarov Jan , De Lara Shahin , Parhizkar Samad , Olofsson Bagge Roger , Wennberg Larkö Ann‐Marie , Ericson Marica B.
Published: May 2020

This proof‐of‐concept, observational study investigates the potential for label‐free, laser scanning microscopy to identify melanoma metastatic features in lymph node tissues ex vivo ‐ exploring the translational potential targeting sentinel lymph node diagnostics. Ten lymph node samples, of which seven are positive for melanoma metastases and three negative, were obtained from a tissue biobank. Imaging data acquired using multiphoton microscopy ex vivo were compared with histopathological findings. Morphologic features characteristic for histopathologic diagnosis of melanoma metastasis were confirmed in the positive samples. Four of the samples were complementary studied with reflectance mode confocal microscopy; however, visualization was found restricted to fibrous structures in this case. To conclude, the results imply that multiphoton microscopy based on autofluorescence is a promising label‐free technique for visualization of cellular features in lymph node tissues.
Mobility and Migration in Mediterranean Europe: The Case of Agro-pastoralism
Authors: Nori Michele , Farinella Domenica
Published: May 2020

While most of the existing literature on rural migrations focuses on immigrant workers in intensive agricultural systems, this work tries filling existing gaps by addressing more marginal and remote rural settings. The mountainous, inner and island territories that cover a large part of the Mediterranean are particularly affected by intense demographic decline, land abandonment and problems of generational renewal, posing important questions concerning the sustainability of local development.
Conclusions
Authors: Nori Michele , Farinella Domenica
Published: May 2020

Agriculture and the rural world express the contemporary contradictions of the neoliberal global world; as such, they the represent relevant domains to tackle the challenges associated with the intense migration reshaping our societies.
Superconformal quantum mechanics on Kähler cones
Authors: Dorey Nick , Zhang Daniel
Published: May 2020

Abstract

We consider supersymmetric quantum mechanics on a Kähler cone, regulated via a suitable resolution of the conical singularity. The unresolved space has a u(1, 1|2) superconformal symmetry and we propose the existence of an associated quantum mechanical theory with a discrete spectrum consisting of unitary, lowest weight representations of this algebra. We define a corresponding superconformal index and compute it for a wide range of examples.
Vector-like quark interpretation for the CKM unitarity violation, excess in Higgs signal strength, and bottom quark forward-backward asymmetry
Authors: Cheung Kingman , Keung Wai-Yee , Lu Chih-Ting , Tseng Po-Yan
Published: May 2020

Abstract

Due to a recent more precise evaluation of V

ud
and V

us
, the unitarity condition of the first row in the Cabibbo-Kobayashi-Maskawa (CKM) matrix: |V

ud

|
2 +|Vus|
2 +|V

ub

|
2 = 0.99798 ± 0.00038 now stands at a deviation more than 4σ from unity. Furthermore, a mild excess in the overall Higgs signal strength appears at about 2σ above the standard model (SM) prediction, as well as the long-lasting discrepancy in the forward-backward asymmetry

$$ {\mathcal{A}}_{\mathrm{FB}}^b $$

A
FB
b

in

$$ Z\to b\overline{b} $$

Z
→
b

b
¯

at LEP. Motivated from the above three anomalies we investigate an extension of the SM with vector-like quarks (VLQs) associated with the down-quark sector, with the goal of alleviating the tension among these datasets. We perform global fits of the model under the constraints coming from the unitarity condition of the first row of the CKM matrix, the Z -pole observables

$$ {\mathcal{A}}_{\mathrm{FB}}^b $$

A
FB
b

, R

b
and Γhad, Electro-Weak precision observables ∆S and ∆T , B-meson observables

$$ {B}_d^0-{\overline{B}}_d^0 $$

B
d
0

−

B
¯

d
0

mixing, B
+
→ π
+ℓ+ℓ
−
and B
0
→ μ
+
μ

−
and direct searches for VLQs at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). Our results suggest that adding VLQs to the SM provides better agreement than the SM.
Time trends in deaths before age 50 years in people with type 1 diabetes: a nationwide analysis from Scotland 2004–2017
Authors:   for the Scottish Diabetes Research Network Epidemiology Group, O’Reilly Joseph E. , Blackbourn Luke A. K. , Caparrotta Thomas M. , Jeyam Anita , Kennon Brian , Leese Graham P. , Lindsay Robert S. , McCrimmon Rory J. , McGurnaghan Stuart J. , McKeigue Paul M. , McKnight John A. , Petrie John R. , Philip Sam , Sattar Naveed , Wild Sarah H. , Colhoun Helen M.
Published: May 2020

Aims/hypothesis

We aimed to examine whether crude mortality and mortality relative to the general population below 50 years of age have improved in recent years in those with type 1 diabetes.

Methods

Individuals with type 1 diabetes aged below 50 and at least 1 year old at any time between 2004 and 2017 in Scotland were identified using the national register. Death data were obtained by linkage to Scottish national death registrations. Indirect age standardisation was used to calculate sex-specific standardised mortality ratios (SMRs). Poisson regression was used to test for calendar-time effects as incidence rate ratios (IRRs).

Results

There were 1138 deaths in 251,143 person-years among 27,935 people with type 1 diabetes. There was a significant decline in mortality rate over time (IRR for calendar year 0.983 [95% CI 0.967, 0.998], p = 0.03), but the SMR remained approximately stable at 3.1 and 3.6 in men and 4.09 and 4.16 in women for 2004 and 2017, respectively. Diabetic ketoacidosis or coma (DKAoC) accounted for 22% of deaths and the rate did not decline significantly (IRR 0.975 [95% CI 0.94, 1.011], p = 0.168); 79.3% of DKAoC deaths occurred out of hospital. Circulatory diseases accounted for 27% of deaths and did decline significantly (IRR 0.946 [95% CI 0.914, 0.979], p = 0.002).

Conclusions/interpretation

Absolute mortality has fallen, but the relative impact of type 1 diabetes on mortality below 50 years has not improved. There is scope to improve prevention of premature circulatory diseases and DKAoC and to develop more effective strategies for enabling people with type 1 diabetes to avoid clinically significant hyper- or hypoglycaemia.
Development of an LC-MS method for determination of nitrogen-containing heterocycles using mixed-mode liquid chromatography
Authors: Abdighahroudi Mohammad Sajjad , Lutze Holger V. , Schmidt Torsten C.
Published: May 2020

N-containing heterocycles (NCHs) are largely used as precursors for pharmaceuticals and can enter the environment. Some NCHs have been shown to be toxic, persistent, and very mobile in the environment. Thus, they have received increasing attention in the past years. However, the analysis of these polar compounds in environmental samples is still a challenge for liquid chromatography. This paper investigates the use of mixed-mode liquid chromatography (MMLC), which has reversed-phase and ion exchange characteristics for measurements of NCHs in water. NCHs with low pKa (i.e., < 2.5) display mainly reversed-phase interactions (neutral species) with the stationary phase and those with higher pKa (i.e., > 5) interact by a mixture of reversed-phase/ion exchange/HILIC mechanism. It was also shown that the presented method performs well in the quantification of the majority of the selected NCHs in surface water with MDLs between 3 and 6 μg/L, a low matrix effect and recoveries in the range of 77–96% except for pyridazine exhibiting 32% were achieved. The method was successfully employed to follow the degradation of NCHs in ozonation.
Echocardiographic and Clinical Follow‐up After Aortic Valve Neocuspidization Using Autologous Pericardium
Authors: Koechlin Luca , Schurr Ulrich , Miazza Jules , Imhof Sebastian , Maurer Markus , Erb Joachim , Gahl Brigitta , Santer David , Berdajs Denis , Eckstein Friedrich S. , Reuthebuch Oliver
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Mid‐term data from a single centre showed the safety and durability of aortic valve neocuspidization using autologous pericardium (OZAKI procedure). Since validation data from other centres are missing, aim of this study was to analyze echocardiographic and clinical results of our first patients that were operated with the OZAKI technique.

Methods

Thirty‐five patients (24 males, median (IQR) age 72.0 (59.0, 76.0) years) with aortic stenosis (AS; n = 10), aortic insufficiency (AR; n = 13) or a combination of both (AS/AR; n = 12), underwent aortic valve neocuspidization in our institution between September 2015 and May 2017. Echocardiographic follow‐up was performed using a standardized examination protocol.

Results

Clinical follow‐up was completed in 97% of the patients. Median (IQR) follow‐up time was 645 (430, 813) days. Mortality rate was 9% (n = 1: aspiration pneumonia; n = 1: unknown; n = 1: anaphylactic shock), and the reoperation rate was 3% (n = 1: endocarditis). No pacemaker implantation was necessary after isolated OZAKI procedures. Echocardiographic follow‐up was performed in 83% of the patients (n = 29; median (IQR) time 664 (497, 815) days). Median (IQR) mean and peak gradients were 6 (5,9) mmHg and 12 (8, 17) mmHg. Moderate aortic regurgitation was seen in 2 patients (7%). No severe aortic regurgitation or moderate or severe aortic stenosis occurred within the follow‐up period.

Conclusions

The OZAKI procedure is reliable and reoperation due to structural valve deterioration nil within a median 645 days follow‐up period. The low rate of moderate aortic regurgitation will be surveilled very closely. Further studies are required to evaluate the significance of this procedure in aortic valve surgery.

Clinical registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov (ID NCT03677804)
Prognostic value of pretreatment neutrophil-to-lymphocyte and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratios in multiple myeloma patients treated with thalidomide-based regimen
Authors: Szudy-Szczyrek Aneta , Mlak Radosław , Mielnik Michał , Szczyrek Michał , Nowaczyńska Aleksandra , Homa-Mlak Iwona , Zmorzyński Szymon , Kuśmierczuk Kinga , Sompor Jacek , Filip Agata , Małecka-Massalska Teresa , Hus Marek
Published: May 2020

Neutrophils to lymphocytes ratio (NLR) and platelets to lymphocytes ratio (PLR) are considered as laboratory markers of inflammation. They can be potentially useful in predicting the course of multiple neoplasms including selected hematological cancers. The aim of the study was to assess the value of NLR and PLR in predicting the effects of therapy and prognosis in multiple myeloma patients treated with thalidomide-based regimen. The study group consisted of 100 patients treated with the first line CTD (cyclophosphamide, thalidomide, and dexamethasone) chemotherapy. The NLR and PLR were calculated before treatment. High NLR was observed in patients with higher stage of the disease, with poor performance status, hypercalcemia, and high CRP. High PLR was associated with low BMI and high CRP. In patients with high NLR, significantly shorter PFS was observed (17 vs. 26 months,p = 0.0405). In addition, high values of NLR and PLR were associated with significantly shorter OS (38 vs. 79 months,p = 0.0010; 40 vs. 78 months,p = 0.0058). Summarizing, NLR and PLR have a significant independent prognostic value for multiple myeloma patients. Furthermore, the NLR can be a predictive marker for the outcome of thalidomide-based chemotherapy.
Videokonsultationen durch Psychotherapeuten in Zeiten der COVID-19-Pandemie
Authors: Haun Markus W. , Hoffmann Mariell , Tönnies Justus , Dinger Ulrike , Hartmann Mechthild , Friederich Hans-Christoph
Published: May 2020

Wegen der durch die „corona virus disease 2019“ (COVID-19) ausgelösten Pandemie und den resultierenden Beeinträchtigungen persönlicher (d. h. von Angesicht zu Angesicht stattfindender) Behandlung haben Videokonsultationen in der Erbringung von Gesundheitsleistungen massiv an Bedeutung zugenommen. Die meisten Psychotherapeuten haben allerdings bis dato wenig praktische Erfahrung in der Durchführung von Videokonsultationen, nicht zuletzt auch aufgrund bisher eingeschränkter Möglichkeiten zur Abrechnung mit den Kostenträgern. Der vorliegende Beitrag stellt (1) eine Übersicht über die Wirksamkeit per Videokonsultation durchgeführter psychotherapeutischer Interventionen bei depressiven und Angststörungen, (2) Empfehlungen zur spezifischen Gestaltung des Behandlungsrahmens sowie (3) erste Erfahrungen von Patienten und Psychotherapeuten aus einer deutschen Machbarkeitsstudie sowie mit dem Routineangebot im Krankenhaus während der COVID-19-Pandemie vor.
First application of intraoperative MRI of the liver during ALPPS procedure for colorectal liver metastases
Authors: Riediger Carina , Plodeck Verena , Fritzmann Johannes , Pape Alexander , Kohler Alexander , Lachmann Björn , Koch Thea , Kühn Jens-Peter , Hoffmann Ralf-Thorsten , Weitz Jürgen
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Intraoperative detection of intrahepatic lesions can be demanding. The use of preoperative contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computer tomography (CT) combined with intraoperative ultrasound of the liver is state of the art. Near totally regressed colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) after neoadjuvant chemotherapy or nodules in severely altered liver tissue as steatosis or cirrhosis are often hard to detect during the operative procedure. Especially differentiation between benign atypical nodules and malignant tumors can be very difficult. The intraoperative use of contrast-enhanced ultrasound or intraoperative navigation are helpful tools. However, both methods show relevant limitations.

The use of intraoperative MRI (ioMRI) can overcome this problem. Relevant structures can be marked within the operative site or immediate control of complete tumor resection can be achieved. This might allow immediate surgical optimization in case of failure.

Methods

We report the intraoperative application of ioMRI in a case of a 61-year-old male patient suffering from rectal cancer with 10 synchronous bilobar CRLM who was treated stepwise by multimodal treatment and staged hepatectomy. Intraoperative contrast-enhanced MRI of the liver was used during completion procedure of an extended right hemihepatectomy performed as “Associating Liver Partition and Portal vein Ligation for Staged hepatectomy (ALPPS)”.

Results

ioMRI provided excellent images and showed absence of liver metastases in the liver remnant. Procedure of ioMRI was safe, fast and feasible.

Conclusion

To the best of our knowledge, we describe the first case of intraoperative application of a contrast-enhanced MRI during open liver surgery at the University Hospital of Dresden.
Dorsal prefrontal and premotor cortex of the ferret as defined by distinctive patterns of thalamo-cortical projections
Authors: Radtke-Schuller Susanne , Town Stephen M. , Yin Pingbo , Elgueda Diego , Schuller Gerd , Bizley Jennifer K. , Shamma Shihab A. , Fritz Jonathan B.
Published: May 2020

Recent studies of the neurobiology of the dorsal frontal cortex (FC) of the ferret have illuminated its key role in the attention network, top-down cognitive control of sensory processing, and goal directed behavior. To elucidate the neuroanatomical regions of the dorsal FC, and delineate the boundary between premotor cortex (PMC) and dorsal prefrontal cortex (dPFC), we placed retrograde tracers in adult ferret dorsal FC anterior to primary motor cortex and analyzed thalamo-cortical connectivity. Cyto- and myeloarchitectural differences across dorsal FC and the distinctive projection patterns from thalamic nuclei, especially from the subnuclei of the medial dorsal (MD) nucleus and the ventral thalamic nuclear group, make it possible to clearly differentiate three separate dorsal FC fields anterior to primary motor cortex: polar dPFC (dPFCpol), dPFC, and PMC. Based on the thalamic connectivity, there is a striking similarity of the ferret’s dorsal FC fields with other species. This possible homology opens up new questions for future comparative neuroanatomical and functional studies.
QTL mapping for pre-harvest sprouting resistance in japonica rice varieties utilizing genome re-sequencing
Authors: Cheon Kyeong-Seong , Won Yong Jae , Jeong Young-Min , Lee Youn-Young , Kang Do-Yu , Oh Jun , Oh Hyoja , Kim Song Lim , Kim Nyunhee , Lee Eungyeong , Yoon In Sun , Choi Inchan , Baek Jeongho , Kim Kyung-Hwan , Park Hyun-Su , Ji Hyeonso
Published: May 2020

Pre-harvest sprouting (PHS) leads to serious economic losses because of reductions in yield and quality. To analyze the quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for PHS resistance in japonica rice, PHS rates on panicles were measured in 160 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from a cross between the temperate japonica varieties Odae (PHS resistant) and Unbong40 (PHS susceptible) under two different environmental conditions—field (summer) and greenhouse (winter) environments. Genome re-sequencing of the parental varieties detected 266,773 DNA polymorphisms including 248,255 single nucleotide polymorphisms and 18,518 insertions/deletions. We constructed a genetic map comprising 239 kompetitive allele-specific PCR and 49 cleaved amplified polymorphic sequence markers. In the field environment, two major QTLs, qPHS-3FD and qPHS-11FD, were identified on chromosomes 3 and 11, respectively, whereas three major QTLs, qPHS-3GH, qPHS-4GH, and qPHS-11GH, were identified on chromosomes 3, 4, and 11, respectively, in the greenhouse environment. qPHS-11GH and qPHS-11FD had similar locations on chromosome 11, suggesting the existence of a gene conferring stable PHS resistance effects under different environmental conditions. The QTLs identified in this study can be used to improve the PHS resistance of japonica varieties, and they may improve our understanding of the genetic basis of PHS resistance.
Modeling Personalized Adjuvant TreaTment in EaRly stage coloN cancer (PATTERN)
Authors: Jongeneel Gabrielle , Greuter Marjolein J. E. , van Erning Felice N. , Koopman Miriam , Medema Jan P. , Kandimalla Raju , Goel Ajay , Bujanda Luis , Meijer Gerrit A. , Fijneman Remond J. A. , van Oijen Martijn G. H. , Ijzermans Jan , Punt Cornelis J. A. , Vink Geraldine R. , Coupé Veerle M. H.
Published: May 2020

Aim

To develop a decision model for the population-level evaluation of strategies to improve the selection of stage II colon cancer (CC) patients who benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy.

Methods

A Markov cohort model with a one-month cycle length and a lifelong time horizon was developed. Five health states were included; diagnosis, 90-day mortality, death other causes, recurrence and CC death. Data from the Netherlands Cancer Registry were used to parameterize the model. Transition probabilities were estimated using parametric survival models including relevant clinical and pathological covariates. Subsequently, biomarker status was implemented using external data. Treatment effect was incorporated using pooled trial data. Model development, data sources used, parameter estimation, and internal and external validation are described in detail. To illustrate the use of the model, three example strategies were evaluated in which allocation of treatment was based on (A) 100% adherence to the Dutch guidelines, (B) observed adherence to guideline recommendations and (C) a biomarker-driven strategy.

Results

Overall, the model showed good internal and external validity. Age, tumor growth, tumor sidedness, evaluated lymph nodes, and biomarker status were included as covariates. For the example strategies, the model predicted 83, 87 and 77 CC deaths after 5 years in a cohort of 1000 patients for strategies A, B and C, respectively.

Conclusion

This model can be used to evaluate strategies for the allocation of adjuvant chemotherapy in stage II CC patients. In future studies, the model will be used to estimate population-level long-term health gain and cost-effectiveness of biomarker-based selection strategies.
Constructing a Human Atrial Fibre Atlas
Authors: Roney Caroline H. , Bendikas Rokas , Pashakhanloo Farhad , Corrado Cesare , Vigmond Edward J. , McVeigh Elliot R. , Trayanova Natalia A. , Niederer Steven A.
Published: May 2020

Atrial anisotropy affects electrical propagation patterns, anchor locations of atrial reentrant drivers, and atrial mechanics. However, patient-specific atrial fibre fields and anisotropy measurements are not currently available, and consequently assigning fibre fields to atrial models is challenging. We aimed to construct an atrial fibre atlas from a high-resolution DTMRI dataset that optimally reproduces electrophysiology simulation predictions corresponding to patient-specific fibre fields, and to develop a methodology for automatically assigning fibres to patient-specific anatomies. We extended an atrial coordinate system to map the pulmonary veins, vena cava and appendages to standardised positions in the coordinate system corresponding to the average location across the anatomies. We then expressed each fibre field in this atrial coordinate system and calculated an average fibre field. To assess the effects of fibre field on patient-specific modelling predictions, we calculated paced activation time maps and electrical driver locations during AF. In total, 756 activation time maps were calculated (7 anatomies with 9 fibre maps and 2 pacing locations, for the endocardial, epicardial and bilayer surface models of the LA and RA). Patient-specific fibre fields had a relatively small effect on average paced activation maps (range of mean local activation time difference for LA fields: 2.67–3.60 ms, and for RA fields: 2.29–3.44 ms), but had a larger effect on maximum LAT differences (range for LA 12.7–16.6%; range for RA 11.9–15.0%). A total of 126 phase singularity density maps were calculated (7 anatomies with 9 fibre maps for the LA and RA bilayer models). The fibre field corresponding to anatomy 1 had the highest median PS density map correlation coefficient for LA bilayer simulations (0.44 compared to the other correlations, ranging from 0.14 to 0.39), while the average fibre field had the highest correlation for the RA bilayer simulations (0.61 compared to the other correlations, ranging from 0.37 to 0.56). For sinus rhythm simulations, average activation time is robust to fibre field direction; however, maximum differences can still be significant. Patient specific fibres are more important for arrhythmia simulations, particularly in the left atrium. We propose using the fibre field corresponding to DTMRI dataset 1 for LA simulations, and the average fibre field for RA simulations as these optimally predicted arrhythmia properties.
Personalized Psychotherapy for Outpatients with Major Depression and Anxiety Disorders: Transdiagnostic Versus Diagnosis-Specific Group Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Authors: Eskildsen Anita , Reinholt Nina , van Bronswijk Suzanne , Brund René B. K. , Christensen Anne B. , Hvenegaard Morten , Arendt Mikkel , Alrø Anja , Poulsen Stig , Rosenberg Nicole K. , Huibers Marcus J. H. , Arnfred Sidse
Published: May 2020

Background

Only about half of all patients with anxiety disorders or major depression respond to cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), even though this is an evidence-based treatment. Personalized treatment offers an approach to increase the number of patients who respond to therapy. The aim of this study was to examine predictors and moderators of (differential) treatment outcomes in transdiagnostic versus diagnosis-specific group CBT.

Methods

A sample of 291 patients from three different mental health clinics in Denmark was randomized to either transdiagnostic or diagnosis-specific group CBT. The study outcome was the regression slope of the individual patient's repeated scores on the WHO-5 Well-being Index. Pre-treatment variables were identified as moderators or predictors through a two-step variable selection approach.

Results

While the two-step approach failed to identify any moderators, four predictors were found: level of positive affect, duration of disorder, the detachment personality trait, and the coping strategy of cognitive reappraisal. A prognostic index was constructed, but did not seem to be robust across treatment sites.

Conclusions

Our findings give insufficient evidence to support a recommendation of either transdiagnostic or diagnosis-specific CBT for a given patient or to predict the response to the applied group therapies.
Day fines: asymmetric information and the secondary enforcement system
Authors: Kantorowicz-Reznichenko Elena , Kerk Maximilian
Published: May 2020

The most common pecuniary sanction, i.e. fixed-fines, places an emphasis on the severity of the crime. This fine has the problem of being either too high for poorer offenders to pay or too low for the richer offenders to be deterred. Day-fines, on the other hand, systematically account for the financial situation of the offender as well as for the severity of his offense. Consequently, it imposes equivalent burden of punishment on offenders who committed similar crimes, regardless of their wealth. However, a problem of asymmetric information is raised. Accurate financial information is essential for the efficiency of day-fines, yet its collection is costly. Day-fines receive increasing attention from policy-makers around the world. Nonetheless, it is under-researched in the law and economics literature. Therefore, this article is the first to formally analyze the problem of asymmetric information in the context of day-fines and to develop an optimal secondary enforcement system that would incentivize criminals to provide accurate information regarding their wealth.
Best practices in replication: a case study of common information in coordination games
Authors: Chen Roy , Chen Yan , Riyanto Yohanes E.
Published: May 2020

Recently, social science research replicability has received close examination, with discussions revolving around the degree of success in replicating experimental results. We lend insight to the replication discussion by examining the quality of replication studies. We examine how even a seemingly minor protocol deviation in the experimental process (Camerer et al. in Science 351(6280):143–1436, 2016. 10.1126/science.aaf0918), the removal of common information, can lead to a finding of “non-replication” of the results from the original study (Chen and Chen in Am Econ Rev 101(6):2562–2589, 2011). Our analysis of the data from the original study, its replication, and a series of new experiments shows that, with common information, we obtain the original result in Chen and Chen (2011), whereas without common information, we obtain the null result in Camerer et al. (2016). Together, we use our findings to propose a set of procedure recommendations to increase the quality of replications of laboratory experiments in the social sciences.
Opportunity Costs Pacifism
Authors: Pattison James
Published: May 2020

If the resources used to wage wars could be spent elsewhere and save more lives, does this mean that wars are unjustified? This article considers this question, which has been largely overlooked by Just War Theorists and pacifists. It focuses on whether the opportunity costs of war lead to a form of pacifism, which it calls ‘Opportunity Costs Pacifism’. The article argues that Opportunity Costs Pacifism is, at the more ideal level, compelling. It suggests that the only plausible response to Opportunity Costs Pacifism applies in highly nonideal circumstances. This has major implications for Just War Theory and pacifism since it is only at the highly nonideal level that war can be justified.