bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chaperone action of a cofactor in protein folding
Authors: Chen Chen , Park Chiwook
Published: May 2020

Previously, we have reported that ATP accelerates the folding and unfolding of Escherichia coli glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), which is a glycolytic enzyme utilizing NAD+ as a cofactor. Because ATP and NAD+ share the ADP moiety, we hypothesized that NAD+ also accelerates the folding of GAPDH and that the common structural motif between ATP and NAD+ is responsible for the chaperone activity. After confirming that NAD+ indeed accelerates the folding of GAPDH, we examined the chaperone activity of the structural fragments of NAD+ (ADP, AMP, adenosine, and nicotinamide monophosphate). Our finding showed that ADP and AMP significantly speed up the folding of GAPDH, while adenosine and nicotinamide monophosphate do not. ADP and AMP also dramatically speed up the unfolding of GAPDH by selectively stabilizing a transition state in which GAPDH has a partially unfolded conformation. Similar to the previously reported effect of ATP on the equilibrium unfolding of GAPDH, a partially unfolded intermediate also accumulates in the presence of ADP and AMP. Based on the effect of the structural fragments of NAD+ on the folding of GAPDH, we identified that AMP is the structural determinant of the chaperone activity of ATP and NAD+. Also, we propose a plausible model to explain how NAD+ accelerates the folding of GAPDH through a stepwise development of molecular interactions with the protein.
Identification of environmental factors that influence the likelihood of off‐target movement of dicamba
Authors: Oseland Eric , Bish Mandy , Steckel Larry , Bradley Kevin
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Commercialization of dicamba‐resistant soybean and cotton and subsequent post‐emergence applications of dicamba contributed to at least 1.4 and 0.5 million hectares of dicamba‐injured soybean in the United States in 2017 and 2018, respectively. This research was initiated to identify environmental factors that contribute to off‐target dicamba movement. A survey was conducted following the 2017 growing season to collect information from dicamba applications that remained on the target field and those where dicamba moved. Weather and environmental data surrounding applications were collected and used to identify factors that reduce the likelihood of off‐target movement. Soil pH was one factor identified in the model, and field experiments were conducted in 2018 and 2019 to validate the model. Three commercially‐available dicamba formulations and one formulation currently in development were applied to soil at five distinct pH values. Sensitive soybean was used as a bioassay plant to detect dicamba volatilization.

RESULTS

Wind speeds the day of and following application, nearest water source to the field, soybean production acreage in the county, and soil pH were identified as factors that influence the likelihood for off‐target movement. In the field study, when dicamba was applied to pH‐adjusted soil and placed under low tunnels for 72 h, dicamba volatility increased when soil pH decreased as the model predicted. Dicamba choline, which is not commercially available, had reduced volatility compared to other formulations tested.

CONCLUSION

Results of this study identified specific factors that contribute to successful and unsuccessful dicamba applications and should be considered prior to applications. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Wave‐Packet Dynamics in Chains with Disorder‐Type Ornstein–Uhlenbeck and Static Electric Field
Authors: Soares Jose Luis S. , Neto Adhemar Ranciaro , Sales Messias O. , de Moura Francisco A. B. F.
Published: May 2020

Herein, the electronic dynamics in a 1D model with correlated disorder and under the influence of a static electric field is considered. In the framework, the diagonal disorder is obtained from an Ornstein–Uhlenbeck (OU) process. The Schrödinger equation considering an initial Gaussian wave packet with width l located at the center of chain will be solved. To understand the competition between the OU‐like disorder and the electric field, the time evolution of the electronic mean position is calculated. The results suggest that chains with diagonal disorder generated from OU process with small viscosity coefficient seem to exhibit apparent Bloch oscillations (BO) with dominant frequency roughly ω ≈ E. In addition, the stability of these apparent BO along the time is investigated.
Effect of fenugreek consumption on serum lipid profile: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Heshmat‐Ghahdarijani Kiyan , Mashayekhiasl Neda , Amerizadeh Atefeh , Teimouri Jervekani Zahra , Sadeghi Masoumeh
Published: May 2020

Various studies have shown that Trigonella foenum‐graecum (fenugreek) supplementation has lipid‐lowering activity. This meta‐analysis was performed to evaluate the effect of fenugreek supplementation on human serum lipid profile. Data sources were PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Coherence library which were searched systematically from January 2000 up to December 2019. Inclusion criteria were randomized clinical trial (RCT) study design, at least one of lipid profile components (triglyceride [TG], total cholesterol [TC], low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol) levels measured before fenugreek use and one of the lipid components level reported as result. The pooled weighted mean difference (MD) and its 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated and pooled using a random‐effect model. Only articles published in English were considered. Fifteen RCTs involving 281 cases consumed fenugreek and 255 control cases in controlled group (11 articles) and 136 cases in uncontrolled group (4 articles) were analyzed in our study. Pooled data of indicated a significant impact of fenugreek supplementation on lowering TC (−1.13 [−1.88, −0.37]; p = .003), low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) (−1.26 [−2.09, −0.43]; p = .003), and TG (−1.07 [−1.82, −0.33]; p = 0.005) and increasing the high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) level (0.70 [0.07, 1.34]; p = .03) compared with the control group. There were no significant differences in TC, TG, and LDL between pre‐ and post‐fenugreek studies in the noncontrolled studies however, the result of combination of four studies without control group showed a significant increase in mean HDL (0.81 [0.33,1.29]; p‐value = .001). The results of subgroup analysis showed that the fenugreek reduced the TG and LDL and increases HDL levels in diabetic subjects more effectively. Fenugreek supplementation significantly improved lipid profile (LDL, TG, TC, and HDL). It could be considered as an effective lipid‐lowering medicinal plant. Further high‐quality studies are needed to firmly establish the clinical efficacy of the plant.
Processable N‐Substituted Polybenzimidazole; Direct Synthesis
Authors: Olvera‐Mancilla Jessica , Aguilar‐Lugo Carla , Fernández‐Gijón César Augusto , Palacios‐Alquisira Joaquín , Zolotukhin Mikhail , Alexandrova Larissa
Published: May 2020

In this work, the preparations of N‐phenyl substituted polybenzimidazoles by direct polycondensation between N‐phenyl substituted aromatic tetramine, 4,6‐di(N‐phenylamine)‐1,3‐diaminebenzene, and dicarboxylic acids in Eaton's reagent are reported. It is shown that the factors of concentration and temperature are very important for synthesis of soluble linear polymer structures. The high temperatures promote strong crosslinking reactions resulting in insoluble gel fraction. Only decreasing the reaction temperature to 90 °C it is possible to obtained soluble polymer of high molecular weights with inherent viscosity of 1.6 dL/g. Although the FTIR and 1H NMR analyses demonstrated incomplete cyclization of thus obtained polymers, but they are readily soluble in organic solvents and the good quality films were prepared by solution casting. In order to complete the cyclization films were undergone by thermal treatment at 320 °C during 1 h. The N‐phenyl substituted polybenzimidazoles demonstrated good thermal and mechanical properties, which were compared to their analog unsubstituted polybenzimidazoles obtained from 1,2,4,5‐Benzenetetramine tetra‐hydrochloride using similar synthetic conditions.
Synthesis, Spectroscopic Characterizations of Novel Norcantharimides, Their ADME Properties and Docking Studies Against COVID‐19 Mpr°
Authors: Özkan Hamdi , Adem Şevki
Published: May 2020

A series of novel Norcantharimide derivatives were synthesized and their structures were characterized by FTIR, 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy as well as elemental analyses. The absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion (ADME) properties of the synthesized molecules were investigated. The results obtained in silico demonstrated that these molecules can be considered as orally active drug candidates due to their physicochemical properties. Also, docking studies demonstrated that all derivatives exhibit a good theoretical affinity with MolDock Score in between 124–138 against the main protease of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID‐19 Mpr°) that caused worldwide epidemics. We believe that newly synthesized norcantharimide derivatives can guide many future studies in organic synthesis, medicine and pharmaceutical applications.
Low‐Temperature Synthesis of a Sulfur‐Polyacrylonitrile Composite Cathode for Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Páez Jerez Ana L. , Chemes Doly M. , Sham Edgardo L. , Davies Lilian E. , Tesio Alvaro Y. , Flexer Victoria
Published: May 2020

Through a novel synthesis process, a novel sulfurized polyacrylonitrile (SPAN) composite, noted as DH‐150‐300‐SPAN, was prepared and tested as cathode material for lithium sulfur (Li−S) batteries. The reported process involves two heating steps at low temperature. The first plateau at 150 °C melts elemental sulfur, while the second, at 300 °C, produces the cycling of polyacrylonitrile, and incorporates sulfur to the cyclic polymeric structure. A fully morphological and electrochemical characterization was carried out. The SPAN composite contains (38.3 ± 0.2) % S. Li−S batteries assembled using these cathodes have shown good performance, reaching high and stable capacity values, above 1000 mAh 
after 150 cycles at 0.1 C. This is the first time that stable cycling is achieved for a SPAN composite synthesized at such low temperatures and for short heating treatments. Our work describes an easy route to prepare a promising candidate for cathode material of Li−S batteries by using a low‐cost process and low‐cost materials.
The influence of casting position and disturbance induced by reinforcement on the structural concrete strength
Authors: Moccia Francesco , Kubski Xavier , Fernández Ruiz Miguel , Muttoni Aurelio
Published: May 2020

It is well known that control specimens used to assess the concrete strength of new structures have different casting and curing conditions than those of actual structures. Notably, after pouring of the concrete and before its hardening, a number of phenomena such as concrete bleeding and plastic settlement occur, influencing the in‐situ strength with respect to that of small and homogeneous control specimens (cubes or cylinders). In addition, the development of these phenomena and their structural implications are influenced by the presence of reinforcing bars, disturbing the settlement and bleeding of fresh concrete. In this paper, these aspects, with particular emphasis on the effective structural strength, are investigated by means of a testing program performed with refined measurement techniques such as tomography and Digital Image Correlation. On that basis, consistent design rules are derived to correct the strength of control specimens in order to calculate the resistance of a structural concrete member.
Neotypification of Manettia reclinata (Rubiaceae)
Authors: Kirkbride Joseph H. , Wiersema John H.
Published: May 2020

The nomenclature of neotropical Manettia reclinata L., type of the genus Manettia Mutis, is reviewed. Without access to a specimen or illustration, Linnaeus compiled the descriptions of the genus and species entirely from correspondence received from Mutis in present‐day Colombia; thus, no original material exists, and application of the name can only be fixed by neotypification. An earlier attempt to neotypify this name on a Brazilian collection was not effectively published. Therefore, an image of this taxon prepared during the Real Expedición Botánica del Nuevo Reino de Granada under the direction of Mutis is more appropriately designated as neotype.
Rigorous analysis of Arnol'd tongues from a manifold piecewise linear circuit
Authors: Le Viet Duc , Tsubone Tadashi , Inaba Naohiko
Published: May 2020

This report presents rigorous analysis of Arnol'd tongues generated by a manifold piecewise linear circuit. The circuit comprises an LC oscillator, a conductive switch that produces the manifold, and a voltage source controlled by the current value through the inductor when the voltage across the capacitor exceeds a threshold. From the circuit dynamics, the Poincaré return map is explicitly derived as a piecewise linear circle map, and the generation of Arnol'd tongues is precisely explained. We attempt to derive the border–collision bifurcation boundaries of the Arnol'd tongues, some of which are obtained explicitly. Furthermore, we experimentally verify these theoretical results. © 2020 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Development and Initial Validation of the L2‐Teacher Grit Scale
Authors: Sudina Ekaterina , Vernon Tony , Foster Henry , Del Villano Heather , Hernandez Shoshannah , Beck Daniel , Plonsky Luke
Published: May 2020

Grit—“perseverance and passion for long‐term goals” (Duckworth, Peterson, Matthews, & Kelly, 2007, p. 1087)—has attracted the attention of researchers in fields ranging from psychology to business to education (e.g., Robertson‐Kraft & Duckworth, 2014; Robins, 2019). Continuing the line of research that explores the domain specificity of grit (e.g., F. T. C. Schmidt, Fleckenstein, Retelsdorf, Eskreis‐Winkler, & Möller, 2017), this study introduces the L2‐Teacher Grit Scale (L2TGS) developed to measure grit specifically among English language teachers (N = 202). The results demonstrated, first, that the L2TGS possessed sufficient internal‐consistency reliability (ω = .77). A subsequent principal components analysis revealed a two‐component structure (POV = 50.87%), thus yielding evidence in favor of construct validity. A one‐tailed Pearson’s test for positive correlation between Duckworth and Quinn’s (2009) domain‐general Grit–S and L2TGS scores established concurrent validity of the new measure (rc = .84). Lastly, the L2TGS exhibited a stronger predictive validity, explaining approximately 21% of the variance in L2‐teacher retention‐related scores compared to the Grit–S, which was a statistically nonsignificant predictor accounting for 4% of the total variance. Of note, female teachers had higher levels of grit than male teachers. In sum, our findings indicate support for an occupation‐specific approach to grit.
The top 5 FERPA sections: Practical applications, part 6, when the 3 questions aren't applicable
Authors: Rainsberger Richard
Published: May 2020

‘The best laid schemes o’ mice an’ men / Gang aft a‐gley.’
Review your agreements with online course providers to ensure FERPA compliance
Authors: Gelpi Aileen
Published: May 2020

Thank goodness the spring 2020 term is over! If your institution plans to evaluate its response to the COVID‐19 emergency that led to the mass migration of in‐person education to online classes, why not assess whether the method of delivery complies with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act? The following issues can be the starting point for your institution's evaluation.
Finalize, test emergency preparedness plan before crisis hits
Authors: Pavlik Amelia
Published: May 2020

A 7.1 earthquake hit the University of Alaska at Anchorage on Nov. 30, 2018 — about seven months after Lindsey Chadwell assumed the role of University Registrar.
Doppler‐based predictive model for methotrexate resistance in low‐risk gestational trophoblastic neoplasia with myometrial invasion: prospective study of 147 patients
Authors: Qin J. , Zhang S. , Poon L. , Pan Z. , Luo J. , Yu N. , Wang L. , Wu X. , Cheng X. , Xie X. , Lu Y. , LU W.
Published: May 2020

Objectives

This prospective clinical study aimed to evaluate the vascularization characteristics of low‐risk gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) using Doppler imaging and to develop a predictive model for resistance to methotrexate (MTX).

Methods

Patients with low‐risk GTN receiving primary MTX treatment were enrolled from the Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China, from September 2012 to August 2018. The primary endpoint was to develop and internally validate a predictive model for resistance to MTX therapy in these patients. In the training set, clinical features and Doppler hemodynamic parameters before MTX therapy were analyzed using logistic regression to identify independent predictors of MTX resistance, which were integrated into the model. The predictive performance of the model was evaluated by leave‐one‐out cross‐validation in the training dataset and internal validation in an independent‐sample test dataset.

Results

The entire imaging protocol was completed by 147 eligible patients, of which 110 comprised the training set and 37 the test set. In the training set, cases with myometrial invasion (81.8%; 90/110) showed vascular‐enriched areas in the myometrium and high velocity and low impedance ratios of the uterine artery (UtA) compared to cases without myometrial invasion (18.2%; 20/110). On multivariate logistic regression analysis, time‐averaged mean velocity in UtA (UtA‐TAmean) and the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) score were identified as independent predictors (P = 0.009 and P = 0.043, respectively) of MTX resistance. The Doppler‐based predictive model, developed based on the 90 cases with myometrial invasion, was y = −2.95332 + 0.41696 × FIGO score + 0.03551 × UtA‐TAmean. The model showed an area under the curve of 0.757 (95% CI, 0.653–0.862) and the optimal cut‐off value was 0.50622, which had 45.2% sensitivity and 96.6% specificity. The model stratified patients with low‐risk GTN into low (< 10%), intermediate (10–90%) and high (> 90%) probability of MTX resistance, based on the threshold values of −1.59544 and 0.10046. The model had an accuracy of 74.4% (95% CI, 64.5–82.3%) in the cross‐validation and 72.7% (95% CI, 55.8–84.9%) in the internal validation.

Conclusions

The Doppler‐based predictive model, combining a non‐invasive marker of tumor vascularity with the FIGO scoring system, can differentiate cases with low from those with high probability of developing MTX resistance and therefore has the potential to guide treatment options in patients with low‐risk GTN and myometrial invasion. © 2020 Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Detection of human‐associated bacteria in water from Akiyoshi‐do Cave, Japan
Authors: Ando Kanato , Murakami Takashi
Published: May 2020

Akiyoshi‐do Cave is one of the oldest and the largest show caves in Japan. Environmental alterations induced by tourism impacts have been suggested; however, only a few previous studies have investigated the impacts of tourism on the cave. In this study, enrichment culture procedures were applied to detect human‐associated bacteria (HAB) including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and thermo‐tolerant Bacillus spp. in cave water. Physical and bacterial parameters of water including total nitrogen, ammonia, phosphate, total number of bacteria, and total number of viable bacteria were collected as environmental factors. Escherichia coli was absent at all sites, but increased levels of total bacteria, viable bacteria, S. aureus, and thermo‐tolerant Bacillus spp. were present at high‐impact sites. Examination of the origin tracking of HAB suggested that cave tourists could be a source of HAB contamination, but other causes related to the surface land use could also contribute to HAB contamination. © 2020 Water Environment Federation

Practitioner points

Detection of HAB was performed for the first time in Japanese show caves to consider tourism impacts.

The greater number of HAB was detected from the tourist area than the nontourist area in the cave.

It was suggested that the origin of HAB may not be limited to tourists, but may also include the surface.
Signatures of vector-like top partners decaying into new neutral scalar or pseudoscalar bosons
Authors: Benbrik R. , Kuutmann E. Bergeaas , Franzosi D. Buarque , Ellajosyula V. , Enberg R. , Ferretti G. , Isacson M. , Liu Y.-B. , Mandal T. , Mathisen T. , Moretti S. , Panizzi L.
Published: May 2020

Abstract

We explore the phenomenology of models containing one Vector-Like Quark (VLQ), t′, which can decay into the Standard Model (SM) top quark, t, and a new spin-0 neutral boson, S, the latter being either a scalar or pseudoscalar state. We parametrise the underlying interactions in terms of a simplified model which enables us to capture possible Beyond the SM (BSM) scenarios. We discuss in particular three such scenarios: one where the SM state is supplemented by an additional scalar, one which builds upon a 2-Higgs Doublet Model (2HDM) framework and another which realises a Composite Higgs Model (CHM) through partial compositeness. Such exotic decays of the t′ can be competitive with decays into SM particles, leading to new possible discovery channels at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). Assuming t′ pair production via strong interactions, we design signal regions optimised for one t′ → S t transition (while being inclusive on the other

$$ \overline{t} $$

t
¯

′ decay, and vice versa), followed by the decay of S into the two very clean experimental signatures S → γ γ and S → Z (→ ℓ
+
ℓ

−
)γ. We perform a dedicated signal- to-background analysis in both channels, by using Monte Carlo (MC) event simulations modelling the dynamics from the proton-proton to the detector level. Under the assumption of BR(t′ → S t) = 100%, we are therefore able to realistically quantify the sensitivity of the LHC to both the t′ and S masses, assuming both current and foreseen luminosities. This approach paves the way for the LHC experiments to surpass current VLQ search strategies based solely on t′ decays into SM bosons (W
±
, Z , h).
χSB of cascading gauge theory in de Sitter
Authors: Buchel Alex
Published: May 2020

Abstract

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 1 supersymmetric SU(N) × SU(N + M) cascading gauge theory of Klebanov et al. [1, 2] spontaneously breaks chiral symmetry in Minkowski space-time. We demonstrate that in de Sitter space-time the chiral symmetry breaking occurs for the values of the Hubble constant

$$ H\underset{\sim }{<}0.7\Lambda, $$

H

<
~

0.7
Λ
,

as well as in the narrow window 0.92(1)Λ ≤ H ≤ 0.92(5)Λ. We give a precise definition of the strong coupling scale A of the cascading gauge theory, which is related to the glueball mass scale in the theory m
glueball and the asymptotic string coupling g

s
as

$$ \Lambda \sim {g}_s^{1/2} $$

Λ
~

g
s

1
/
2

m
gluebal.l
JIMWLK evolution, Lindblad equation and quantum-classical correspondence
Authors: Li Ming , Kovner Alex
Published: May 2020

Abstract

In the Color Glass Condensate (CGC) effective theory, the physics of valence gluons with large longitudinal momentum is reflected in the distribution of color charges in the transverse plane. Averaging over the valence degrees of freedom is effected by integrating over classical color charges with some quasi probability weight functional W [j] whose evolution with rapidity is governed by the JIMWLK equation. In this paper, we reformulate this setup in terms of effective quantum field theory on valence Hilbert space governed by the reduced density matrix

$$ \hat{\rho} $$

ρ
̂

for hard gluons, which is obtained after properly integrating out the soft gluon “environment”. We show that the evolution of this density matrix with rapidity in the dense and dilute limits has the form of Lindblad equation. The quasi probability distribution (weight) functional W is directly related to the reduced density matrix

$$ \hat{\rho} $$

ρ
̂

through the generalization of the Wigner-Weyl quantum-classical correspondence, which reformulates quantum dynamics on Hilbert space in terms of classical dynamics on the phase space. In the present case the phase space is non Abelian and is spanned by the components of transverse color charge density j. The same correspondence maps the Lindblad equation for

$$ \hat{\rho} $$

ρ
̂

into the JIMWLK evolution equation for W .
A QCD analysis of LHCb D-meson data in p+Pb collisions
Authors: Eskola Kari J. , Helenius Ilkka , Paakkinen Petja , Paukkunen Hannu
Published: May 2020

Abstract

We scrutinize the recent LHCb data for D0-meson production in p+Pb collisions within a next-to-leading order QCD framework. Our calculations are performed in the SACOT-m
T variant of the general-mass variable-flavour-number scheme (GM-VFNS), which has previously been shown to provide a realistic description of the LHC p+p data. Using the EPPS16 and nCTEQ15 nuclear parton distribution functions (PDFs) we show that a very good agreement is obtained also in the p+Pb case both for cross sections and nuclear modification ratios in the wide rapidity range covered by the LHCb data. Encouraged by the good correspondence, we quantify the impact of these data on the nuclear PDFs by the Hessian reweighting technique. We find compelling direct evidence of gluon shadowing at small momentum fractions x, with no signs of parton dynamics beyond the collinear factorization. We also compare our theoretical framework to a fixed-order calculation supplemented with a parton shower. While the two frameworks differ in the absolute cross sections, these differences largely cancel in the nuclear modification ratios. Thus, the constraints for nuclear PDFs appear solid.
Time evolution of the complexity in chaotic systems: a concrete example
Authors: Yang Run-Qiu , Kim Keun-Young
Published: May 2020

Abstract

We investigate the time evolution of the complexity of the operator by the Sachdev-Ye-Kitaev (SYK) model with N Majorana fermions. We follow Nielsen’s idea of complexity geometry and geodesics thereof. We show that it is possible that the bi- invariant complexity geometry can exhibit the conjectured time evolution of the complexity in chaotic systems: i) linear growth until t ∼ e

N
, ii) saturation and small fluctuations after then. We also show that the Lloyd’s bound is realized in this model. Interestingly, these characteristic features appear only if the complexity geometry is the most natural “non-Riemannian” Finsler geometry. This serves as a concrete example showing that the bi-invariant complexity may be a competitive candidate for the complexity in quantum mechanics/field theory (QM/QFT). We provide another argument showing a naturalness of bi-invariant complexity in QM/QFT. That is that the bi-invariance naturally implies the equivalence of the right-invariant complexity and left-invariant complexity, either of which may correspond to the complexity of a given operator. Without bi-invariance, one needs to answer why only right (left) invariant complexity corresponds to the “complexity”, instead of only left (right) invariant complexity.
Low-dose radiation therapy for COVID-19 pneumopathy: what is the evidence?
Authors: Rödel Franz , Arenas Meritxell , Ott Oliver J. , Fournier Claudia , Georgakilas Alexandros G. , Tapio Soile , Trott Klaus-Rüdiger , Gaipl Udo S.
Published: May 2020

In the current dismal situation of the COVID-19 pandemic, effective management of patients with pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome is of vital importance. Due to the current lack of effective pharmacological concepts, this situation has caused interest in (re)considering historical reports on the treatment of patients with low-dose radiation therapy for pneumonia. Although these historical reports are of low-level evidence per se, hampering recommendations for decision-making in the clinical setting, they indicate effectiveness in the dose range between 0.3 and 1 Gy, similar to more recent dose concepts in the treatment of acute and chronic inflammatory/degenerative benign diseases with, e.g., a single dose per fraction of 0.5 Gy. This concise review aims to critically review the evidence for low-dose radiation treatment of COVID-19 pneumopathy and discuss whether it is worth investigating in the present clinical situation.
Kostenfaktor „ambulante Wundversorgung“ in der Notaufnahme
Authors: Schindler Cora R. , Lustenberger Thomas , Marzi Ingo , Verboket René D.
Published: May 2020

Hintergrund

Die Erstversorgung von Wunden und kleinere chirurgische Eingriffe gehören neben der hochspezialisierten Medizin zu den allgemein notwendigen Grundleistungen der Notfallversorgung in den Kliniken. Die Vergütung der ambulanten Notfallleistungen für gesetzlich Versicherte erfolgt derzeit nach dem Einheitlichen Bewertungsmaßstab (EBM), welchem die betriebswirtschaftliche Aufwandserfassung des niedergelassenen Sektors als Kalkulationsgrundlage dient. Krankenhäuser haben im Vergleich zu Arztpraxen wesentlich höhere Vorhaltungskosten.

Ziel der Arbeit

In dieser Arbeit wird das entstehende Kosten-Erlös-Verhältnis der ambulanten Wundversorgung in einer Notaufnahme durch die Vergütung nach EBM analysiert.

Material und Methoden

Die Daten wurden in der Notaufnahme des Universitätsklinikums Frankfurt am Main über 12 Monate erhoben. Eingeschlossen wurden alle Patienten, die in diesem Zeitraum eine Wundversorgung mittels Naht erhielten. Die Kosten wurden der Abrechnung nach EBM 01210 (bzw. 01212) mit der Zusatzpauschale für kleinchirurgische Eingriffe EBM 02301 gegenübergestellt.

Ergebnisse

Im Beobachtungszeitraum wurden 1548 Patienten versorgt; das entspricht 19,52 % aller unfallchirurgischen Fälle. Den Kosten einer Standardwundversorgung in Höhe von 45,40 € steht eine Vergütung von 31,83 € gegenüber. Die Berechnung des Gesamterlöses weist einen Defizitbetrag von 13,57 € pro ambulantem Fall auf; dies entspricht einem Jahresdefizit von 21.006,36 €.

Diskussion

Es konnte gezeigt werden, dass ohne Betrachtung der relevanten Vorhaltekosten in keinem Fall eine Kostendeckung erreicht werden kann.

Die bisherige Vergütung der ambulanten Wundversorgung nach EBM erscheint unzureichend. Eine Anpassung bzw. Zusatzvergütung scheint notwendig, um eine ausreichende Versorgungsqualität in Zukunft sicherstellen zu können.
On tests for symmetry and radial symmetry of bivariate copulas towards testing for ellipticity
Authors: Jaser Miriam , Min Aleksey
Published: May 2020

Very simple non-parametric tests are proposed to detect symmetry and radial symmetry in the dependence structure of bivariate copula data. The performance of the proposed tests is illustrated in an intensive simulation study and compared to the one of similar more advanced tests, which do not require known margins. Further, a powerful non-parametric testing procedure to decide whether the dependence structure of the underlying bivariate copula data may be captured by an elliptical copula is provided. The testing procedure makes use of intrinsic properties of bivariate elliptical copulas such as symmetry, radial symmetry, and equality of Kendall’s tau and Blomqvist’s beta. The proposed tests as well as the testing procedure are very simple to use in applications. For an illustration of the testing procedure for ellipticity, financial and insurance data is analyzed.
Vaginal laser for overactive bladder syndrome
Authors: Charalampous Ioannis , Tailor Visha K. , Digesu Alex
Published: May 2020

Overactive bladder syndrome (OAB) is defined as urinary urgency, usually with urinary frequency and nocturia, with or without urge urinary incontinence. The prevalence of OAB in adult women ranges between 11% and 42%, is particularly common in elderly people, and can overlap with the genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). There is a wide approach to the treatment of symptoms, often in a stepwise fashion, including lifestyle changes, bladder retraining and pelvic floor muscle rehabilitation, drug therapy, intra-vesical botulinum toxin injections or neuromodulation. Recently, vaginal laser therapy has been proposed as an emerging minimal invasive effective treatment option for women with OAB. We explore this further.
Polyhedral Billiards, Eigenfunction Concentration and Almost Periodic Control
Authors: Cekić Mihajlo , Georgiev Bogdan , Mukherjee Mayukh
Published: May 2020

We study dynamical properties of the billiard flow on convex polyhedra away from a neighbourhood of the non-smooth part of the boundary, called “pockets”. We prove there are only finitely many immersed periodic tubes missing the pockets and moreover establish a new quantitative estimate for the lengths of such tubes. This extends well-known results in dimension 2. We then apply these dynamical results to prove a quantitative Laplace eigenfunction mass concentration near the pockets of convex polyhedral billiards. As a technical tool for proving our concentration results on irrational polyhedra, we establish a control-theoretic estimate on a product space with an almost-periodic boundary condition. This extends previously known control estimates for periodic boundary conditions, and seems to be of independent interest.
Pharmaceuticals and Environment: a web-based decision support for considering environmental aspects of medicines in use
Authors: Ramström Helena , Martini Siv , Borgendahl Johanna , Ågerstrand Marlene , Lärfars Gerd , Ovesjö Marie-Louise
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The database Pharmaceuticals and Environment is a non-commercial, freely available web-based decision support presenting compiled environmental information for pharmaceutical substances. It was developed by Region Stockholm and launched in 2016 at janusinfo.se. The purpose of this paper is to present the database, report on its current use, and reflect on lessons learned from developing and managing the database.

Methods

A standard operating procedure describes the work and content of the database, e.g., how information is retrieved, processed, and presented. Google Analytics was used for metrics. Issues related to the database have been discussed and handled by a reference group. The experiences from this work are presented.

Results

The database contains environmental hazard and risk information, primarily gathered from regulatory authorities and pharmaceutical companies. There are also assessments comparing substances within some groups of pharmaceuticals. The database is used by the Swedish Drug and Therapeutics Committees to include environmental aspects when recommending pharmaceuticals for health care providers. Page views show that users primarily look for information on commonly used substances, e.g., diclofenac and paracetamol/acetaminophen. Major problems for the development of the database are lack of data, lack of transparency, and discrepancies in the available environmental information.

Conclusion

In the absence of an adequate decision support produced by the regulatory authorities, we find the database Pharmaceuticals and Environment to be useful for Swedish Drug and Therapeutics Committees and health care providers, and it is our belief that the information can be valuable also in other settings.
EANM practice guideline/SNMMI procedure standard for dopaminergic imaging in Parkinsonian syndromes 1.0
Authors: Morbelli Silvia , Esposito Giuseppe , Arbizu Javier , Barthel Henryk , Boellaard Ronald , Bohnen Nico I. , Brooks David J , Darcourt Jacques , Dickson John C. , Douglas David , Drzezga Alexander , Dubroff Jacob , Ekmekcioglu Ozgul , Garibotto Valentina , Herscovitch Peter , Kuo Phillip , Lammertsma Adriaan , Pappata Sabina , Peñuelas Iván , Seibyl John , Semah Franck , Tossici-Bolt Livia , Van de Giessen Elsmarieke , Van Laere Koen , Varrone Andrea , Wanner Michele , Zubal George , Law Ian
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This joint practice guideline or procedure standard was developed collaboratively by the European Association of Nuclear Medicine (EANM) and the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNMMI). The goal of this guideline is to assist nuclear medicine practitioners in recommending, performing, interpreting, and reporting the results of dopaminergic imaging in parkinsonian syndromes.

Methods

Currently nuclear medicine investigations can assess both presynaptic and postsynaptic function of dopaminergic synapses. To date both EANM and SNMMI have published procedural guidelines for dopamine transporter imaging with single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) (in 2009 and 2011, respectively). An EANM guideline for D2 SPECT imaging is also available (2009). Since the publication of these previous guidelines, new lines of evidence have been made available on semiquantification, harmonization, comparison with normal datasets, and longitudinal analyses of dopamine transporter imaging with SPECT. Similarly, details on acquisition protocols and simplified quantification methods are now available for dopamine transporter imaging with PET, including recently developed fluorinated tracers. Finally, [18F]fluorodopa PET is now used in some centers for the differential diagnosis of parkinsonism, although procedural guidelines aiming to define standard procedures for [18F]fluorodopa imaging in this setting are still lacking.

Conclusion

All these emerging issues are addressed in the present procedural guidelines for dopaminergic imaging in parkinsonian syndromes.
Major Climate risks and Adaptation Strategies of Smallholder Farmers in Coastal Bangladesh
Authors: Aryal Jeetendra Prakash , Sapkota Tek Bahadur , Rahut Dil Bahadur , Krupnik Timothy J. , Shahrin Sumona , Jat M. L. , Stirling Clare M.
Published: May 2020

Rural households in South Asia’s coastal deltas face numerous livelihood challenges, including risks posed by climatic variability and extreme weather events. This study examines major climate risks, farmers’ adaptation strategies, and the factors affecting the choice of those strategies using data collected from 630 households in southwestern coastal Bangladesh. Farmers identified cyclones, excessive rain and flooding, and salinity as direct climate risks. Increased crop diseases/pests and livestock diseases were perceived as indirect risks resulting from climatic variability. Farmers used multiple adaptation strategies against those risks such as modifications in farm management, use of savings and borrowing funds from family and neighbors, and periodically reducing household food consumption. Off-farm employment and seeking assistance from governmental as well as non-governmental organizations (NGOs) were also common adaptation strategies. The results show that male-headed households are more likely to change farming practices and reduce consumption compared with female-headed households that conversely tended to take assistance from NGOs as an adaptation strategy. Ownership of land and livestock, as well as farmers’ prior exposure to climate change and educational training, also had a significant effect on the choice of adaptation strategy. Therefore, development interventions and policies that aimed at improving resource endowment and training to farmers on climatic risks and their adaptation strategies can help minimize the impact of climatic risks.
Allogeneic cardiosphere-derived cells (CAP-1002) in critically ill COVID-19 patients: compassionate-use case series
Authors: Singh Siddharth , Chakravarty Tarun , Chen Peter , Akhmerov Akbarshakh , Falk Jeremy , Friedman Oren , Zaman Tanzira , Ebinger Joseph E. , Gheorghiu Mitch , Marbán Linda , Marbán Eduardo , Makkar Raj R.
Published: May 2020

There are no definitive therapies for patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. Therefore, new therapeutic strategies are needed to improve clinical outcomes, particularly in patients with severe disease. This case series explores the safety and effectiveness of intravenous allogeneic cardiosphere-derived cells (CDCs), formulated as CAP-1002, in critically ill patients with confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Adverse reactions to CAP-1002, clinical status on the World Health Organization (WHO) ordinal scale, and changes in pro-inflammatory biomarkers and leukocyte counts were analyzed. All patients (n = 6; age range 19–75 years, 1 female) required ventilatory support (invasive mechanical ventilation, n = 5) with PaO2/FiO2 ranging from 69 to 198. No adverse events related to CAP-1002 administration were observed. Four patients (67%) were weaned from respiratory support and discharged from the hospital. One patient remains mechanically ventilated as of April 28th, 2020; all survive. A contemporaneous control group of critically ill COVID-19 patients (n = 34) at our institution showed 18% overall mortality at a similar stage of hospitalization. Ferritin was elevated in all patients at baseline (range of all patients 605.43–2991.52 ng/ml) and decreased in 5/6 patients (range of all patients 252.89–1029.90 ng/ml). Absolute lymphocyte counts were low in 5/6 patients at baseline (range 0.26–0.82 × 103/µl) but had increased in three of these five patients at last follow-up (range 0.23–1.02 × 103/µl). In this series of six critically ill COVID-19 patients, intravenous infusion of CAP-1002 was well tolerated and associated with resolution of critical illness in 4 patients. This series demonstrates the apparent safety of CAP-1002 in COVID-19. While this initial experience is promising, efficacy will need to be further assessed in a randomized controlled trial.
Enteric-coated sodium bicarbonate supplementation improves high-intensity cycling performance in trained cyclists
Authors: Hilton Nathan Philip , Leach Nicholas Keith , Hilton Melissa May , Sparks S. Andy , McNaughton Lars Robert
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Enteric-coated sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) can attenuate gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms following acute bicarbonate loading, although the subsequent effects on exercise performance have not been investigated. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of enteric-coated NaHCO3 supplementation on high-intensity exercise performance and GI symptoms.

Methods

Eleven trained male cyclists completed three 4 km time trials after consuming; a placebo or 0.3 g∙kg–1 body mass NaHCO3 in enteric-coated or gelatin capsules. Exercise trials were timed with individual peak blood bicarbonate ion concentration ([HCO3–]). Blood acid–base balance was measured pre-ingestion, pre-exercise, and post-exercise, whereas GI symptoms were recorded pre-ingestion and immediately pre-exercise.

Results

Pre-exercise blood [HCO3−] and potential hydrogen (pH) were greater for both NaHCO3 conditions (P < 0.0005) when compared to placebo. Performance time was faster with enteric-coated (− 8.5 ± 9.6 s, P = 0.044) and gelatin (− 9.6 ± 7.2 s, P = 0.004) NaHCO3 compared to placebo, with no significant difference between conditions (mean difference = 1.1 ± 5.3 s, P = 1.000). Physiological responses were similar between conditions, although blood lactate ion concentration was higher with gelatin NaHCO3 (2.4 ± 1.7 mmol∙L–1, P = 0.003) compared with placebo. Furthermore, fewer participants experienced GI symptoms with enteric-coated (n = 3) compared to gelatin (n = 7) NaHCO3.

Discussion

Acute enteric-coated NaHCO3 consumption mitigates GI symptoms at the onset of exercise and improves subsequent 4 km cycling TT performance. Athletes who experience GI side-effects after acute bicarbonate loading may, therefore, benefit from enteric-coated NaHCO3 supplementation prior to exercise performance.
Selected applications of an open-source three-dimensional computational fluid dynamic code in hydraulic engineering
Authors: Shahriari Shervin , Schneider Josef , Zenz Gerald
Published: May 2020

Exponential growth of computational power in the past decade on one hand and the success of numerical models in studying hydro-environmental flows on the other hand lead to an increasing usage of this technique in hydraulic engineering problems. In particular, three-dimensional numerical models are becoming the industry standard, especially in problems where capturing three-dimensional flow characteristics are important. Additionally, with availability of open-source computational fluid dynamic (CFD) codes, this type of modelling is more accessible. Among these codes, OpenFOAM (Open Source Field Operation and Manipulation) is a state-of-the-art CFD code with an extensive range of features for engineering and scientific applications. In this paper, selected studies are presented which the authors carried out using OpenFOAM. These studies include a wide range of applications from implementation of the new algorithms to modelling a practical application in hydraulic engineering.
The quality of care of the dying in hospital—next-of-kin perspectives
Authors: Heckel Maria , Vogt Annika R. , Stiel Stephanie , Radon Johannes , Kurkowski Sandra , Goebel Swantje , Ostgathe Christoph , Weber Martin
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Providing high-quality care for the dying is essential in palliative care. Quality of care can be checked, compared, and improved by assessing responses from bereaved next-of-kin. The objectives of this study are to examine quality of care in the last 2 days of life of hospitalized patients considering specific aspects of their place of care.

Methods

The “Care of the Dying Evaluation” (CODE™) questionnaire, validated in German in 2018 (CODE-GER), examines quality of care for the patient and support of next-of-kin, allocating values between 0 (low quality) and 4 (high quality). The total score (0–104) is divided into subscales which indicate support/time given by doctors/nurses, spiritual/emotional support, information/decision-making, environment, information about the dying process, symptoms, and support at the actual time of death/afterwards. Next-of-kin of patients with an expected death in specialized palliative care units and other wards in two university hospitals between April 2016 and March 2017 were included.

Results

Most of the 237 analyzed CODE-GER questionnaires were completed by the patient’s spouse (42.6%) or children (40.5%) and 64.1% were female. Patients stayed in hospital for an average of 13.7 days (3–276; SD 21.1). Half of the patients died in a specialized palliative care unit (50.6%). The CODE-GER total score was 85.7 (SD 14.17; 25–104). Subscales were rated significantly better for palliative care units than for other wards. Unsatisfying outcomes were reported in both groups in the subscales for information/decision-making and information about the dying process.

Conclusion

The overall quality of care for the dying was rated to be good. Improvements of information about the dying process and decision-making are needed.

Trial registration

DRKS00013916
Correction to: Predictors of localization, outcome, and etiology of spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhages: focus on cerebral amyloid angiopathy
Authors: Fakan Bernadett , Reisz Zita , Zadori Denes , Vecsei Laszlo , Klivenyi Peter , Szalardy Levente
Published: May 2020

The original version of this article unfortunately contained a mistake