bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is multicomponent environmental flow management always better than the fixed minimum flows for a river ecosystem?
Authors: He Shan , Liu Hongrui , Zhang Enze , Gao Ting
Published: October 2020

Environmental flows (e‐flows) management is a basic task in reservoir operation. A simple approach for managing e‐flows is to maintain a fixed minimum flow, which releases at least a constant amount of water to sustain daily streamflow. Then e‐flows management becomes increasingly more sophisticated. Newer approaches include multicomponent e‐flow management, which provides different flows during different periods. This management approach produces a better flow regime than the fixed minimum flows because it more closely resembles the natural flow regime. However, in addition to e‐flow management strategies, flow regimes are also influenced by reservoir capacity, reservoir inflow, and water supply. The effects of these three variables on flow regime alteration have been rarely studied. To compare the effects of different reservoir capacities, reservoir inflows, and water supply quantities on flow regime alteration, we developed a hypothetical reservoir system for use in numerical experiments. In addition to the fixed minimum flows, we tested the effects of three other widely used e‐flow management strategies on flow regime alteration: the fraction of inflow, flow components, and four‐period release approaches. The range of variability approach is adopted to evaluate the flow regime alteration. The results show that the flow regime alteration decreases with increasing reservoir inflows and increases with increasing water supply quantity for all of the four e‐flow management strategies. We found that for certain values of reservoir capacity, reservoir inflow sequence, or water supply, the simple fixed minimum flows approach may produce the same results as the more sophisticated approaches.
Developing and validating Next Generation Science Standards‐aligned learning progression to track three‐dimensional learning of electrical interactions in high school physical science
Authors: Kaldaras Leonora , Akaeze Hope , Krajcik Joseph
Published: October 2020

The Framework for K‐12 science education (The Framework) and Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) emphasize the usefulness of learning progressions in helping align curriculum, instruction, and assessment to organize the learning process. The Framework defines three dimensions of science as the basis of theoretical learning progressions described in the document and used to develop NGSS. The three dimensions include disciplinary core ideas, scientific and engineering practices, and crosscutting concepts. The Framework defines three‐dimensional learning (3D learning) as integrating scientific and engineering practices, crosscutting concepts, and disciplinary core ideas to make sense of phenomena. Three‐dimensional learning leads to the development of a deep, useable understanding of big ideas that students can apply to explain phenomena and solve real‐life problems. While the Framework describes the theoretical basis of 3D learning, and NGSS outlines possible theoretical learning progressions for the three dimensions across grades, we currently have very limited empirical evidence to show that a learning progression for 3D learning can be developed and validated in practice. In this paper, we demonstrate the feasibility of developing a 3D learning progression (3D LP) supported by qualitative and quantitative validity evidence. We first present a hypothetical 3D LP aligned to a previously designed NGSS‐based curriculum. We further present multiple sources of validity evidence for the hypothetical 3D LP, including interview analysis and item response theory (IRT) analysis to show validity evidence for the 3D LP. Finally, we demonstrate the feasibility of using the assessment tool designed to probe levels of the 3D LP for assigning 3D LP levels to individual student answers, which is essential for the practical applicability of any LP. This work demonstrates the usefulness of validated 3D LP for organizing the learning process in the NGSS classroom, which is essential for the successful implementation of NGSS.
Boron‐dependent regulation of translation through AUGUAA sequence in yeast
Authors: Tsednee Munkhtsetseg , Tanaka Mayuki , Kasai Koji , Fujiwara Toru
Published: October 2020

Under high boron (B) conditions, nodulin 26‐like intrinsic protein 5;1 (NIP5;1) mRNA, a boric acid channel, is destabilized to avoid excess B entry into roots of Arabidopsis thaliana. In this regulation, the minimum upstream open reading frame (uORF), AUGUAA, in its 5′‐untranslated region (5′‐UTR) is essential, and high B enhances ribosome stalling at AUGUAA and leads to suppression of translation and mRNA degradation. This B‐dependent AUGUAA‐mediated regulation occurs also in animal transient expression and reticulocyte lysate translation systems. Thus, uncovering the ubiquitousness of B‐dependent unique regulation is important to reveal the evolution of translational regulation. In the present study, we examined the regulation in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Reporter assay showed that in yeast, carrying ATGTAA in 5′‐UTR of NIP5;1 upstream of the reporter gene, the relative reporter activities were reduced significantly under high B conditions compared with control, whereas deletion of ATGTAA abolished such responses. This suggests that AUGUAA mediates B‐dependent regulation of translation in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Moreover, the deletion of ATGTAA resulted in up to 10‐fold increase in general reporter activities indicating the suppression effect of AUGUAA on translation of the main ORF. Interestingly, mRNA level of the reporter gene was not affected by B in both yeast cells with and without AUGUAA. This finding reveals that in yeast, unlike the case in plants, mRNA degradation is not associated with AUGUAA regulation. Together, results suggest that B‐dependent AUGUAA‐mediated translational regulation is common among eukaryotes.
From Linguistic Relativity to Script Relativity
Authors: Pae Hye K.
Published: October 2020

This chapter reviews the evolution of the linguistic relativity hypothesis and how it was dismissed. The opponents of linguistic relativity misinterpreted the hypothesis itself and research results. With new interpretations and more scientific research findings, the hypothesis has gained rekindled interest in recent years. Empirical evidence for linguistic relativity is reviewed from the perspectives of first language influences on cognition, including color, motion, number, time, objects, and nonlinguistic representations, and from the prism of cross-linguistic influences. The chapter drives the discussion from linguistic relativity to the introduction to script relativity. The chapter ends with the claim that, among other factors that can explain cross-linguistic and cross-scriptal influences, script relativity has the greatest competitive plausibility to explain the consequences of reading.
Semantic Annotation of Predictive Modelling Experiments
Authors: Tolovski Ilin , Džeroski Sašo , Panov Panče
Published: October 2020

In this paper, we address the task of representation, semantic annotation, storage, and querying of predictive modelling experiments. We introduce OntoExp, an OntoDM module which gives a more granular representation of a predictive modeling experiment and enables annotation of the experiment’s provenance, algorithm implementations, parameter settings and output metrics. This module is incorporated in SemanticHub, an online system that allows execution, annotation, storage and querying of predictive modeling experiments. The system offers two different user scenarios. The users can either define their own experiment and execute it, or they can browse the repository of completed experimental workflows across different predictive modelling tasks. Here, we showcase the capabilities of the system with executing multi-target regression experiment on a water quality prediction dataset using the Clus software. The system and created repositories are evaluated based on the FAIR data stewardship guidelines. The evaluation shows that OntoExp and SemanticHub provide the infrastructure needed for semantic annotation, execution, storage, and querying of the experiments.
Change of base for operator space modules
Authors: Rosbotham Michael
Published: October 2020

We prove a change of base theorem for operator space modules overC*-algebras, analogous to the change of rings for algebraic modules. We demonstrate how this can be used to show that the category of (right) matrix normed modules and completely bounded module maps has enough injectives.
Cancer research using organoid technology
Authors: Kretzschmar Kai
Published: October 2020

Organoid technology has rapidly transformed basic biomedical research and contributed to significant discoveries in the last decade. With the application of protocols to generate organoids from cancer tissue, organoid technology has opened up new opportunities for cancer research and therapy. Using organoid cultures derived from healthy tissues, different aspects of tumour initiation and progression are widely studied including the role of pathogens or specific cancer genes. Cancer organoid cultures, on the other hand, are applied to generate biobanks, perform drug screens, and study mutational signatures. With the incorporation of cellular components of the tumour microenvironment such as immune cells into the organoid cultures, the technology is now also exploited in the rapidly advancing field of immuno-oncology. In this review, I discuss how organoid technology is currently being utilised in cancer research and what obstacles are still to be overcome for its broader use in anti-cancer therapy.
Schulden, Kredite und unbezahlte Rechnungen unter Nutzer*Innen teilstationärer und stationärer psychiatrischer Behandlung in Berlin
Authors: Schreiter Stefanie , Heidrich Sascha , Heinz Andreas , Rössler Wulf , Krausz Reinhard Michael , Schouler-Ocak Meryam , Bermpohl Felix , Gutwinski Stefan
Published: October 2020

Hintergrund

Bisherige Studien der Allgemeinbevölkerung weisen auf eine Assoziation zwischen psychischen Erkrankungen und verschiedenen Formen finanzieller Schwierigkeiten wie Verschuldung hin.

Ziel der Arbeit

Untersuchung der finanziellen Belastungen und assoziierter Faktoren bei Patient*Innen in (teil-)stationärer psychiatrischer Behandlung.

Material und Methoden

Insgesamt 488 Teilnehmer*Innen einer querschnittlichen Patientenbefragung mittels eines strukturierten Interviews zu soziodemografischen sowie klinischen Variablen in (teil-)stationärer psychiatrischer Behandlung in der psychiatrischen Universitätsklinik der Charité im St. Hedwig, zuständig für einen spezifischen Versorgungsbereich in Berlin, gaben Auskunft zu finanziellen Belastungen.

Ergebnisse

Insgesamt 269 (55,1 %) Teilnehmer*Innen wiesen Schulden, Kredite oder offene Rechnungen auf. Unter den Teilnehmer*Innen, die Auskunft zur Kredit- oder Schuldenhöhe machten (n = 215), wies der größte Teil (47,0 %) Schulden oder Kredite in der Höhe zwischen 1000 und 9999 € auf, gefolgt von 36,3 % mit Schulden/Krediten zwischen 10.000 und 99.999 €. In den Regressionsmodellen hinsichtlich des Vorliegens von Schulden erwiesen sich ein jüngeres Alter und das Vorliegen einer Substanzabhängigkeit als signifikant assoziierte Faktoren. 22,3 % der Befragten wiesen Schulden in Höhe >10.000 € auf und lebten von Sozialleistung, sodass eine Überschuldung angenommen werden könnte.

Diskussion

Finanzielle Belastungen und bestehende Schulden sollten im psychiatrischen Bereich stärker in der Praxis erfragt und beachtet werden. Geeignete Unterstützungsformen sollten entwickelt und evaluiert werden.
Global impact of COVID-19 on non-communicable disease management: descriptive analysis of access to FRAX fracture risk online tool for prevention of osteoporotic fractures
Authors: McCloskey E. V. , Harvey N. C. , Johansson H. , Lorentzon M. , Vandenput L. , Liu E. , Kanis J. A.
Published: October 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic, and its management, is markedly impacting the management of osteoporosis as judged by access to online FRAX fracture risk assessments. Globally, access was 58% lower in April than in February 2020. Strategies to improve osteoporosis care, with greater use of fracture risk assessments, offer a partial solution.

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic is having a significant detrimental impact on the management of chronic diseases including osteoporosis. We have quantified the global impact by examining changes in the usage of online FRAX fracture risk assessments before and after the declaration of the pandemic (11 March 2020).

Methods

The study comprised a retrospective analysis using GoogleAnalytics data on daily sessions on the FRAX® website (www.sheffield.ac.uk/FRAX) from November 2019 to April 2020 (main analysis period February–April 2020), and the geographical source of that activity.

Results

Over February–April 2020, the FRAX website recorded 460,495 sessions from 184 countries, with 210,656 sessions in February alone. In March and April, the number of sessions fell by 23.1% and 58.3% respectively, a pattern not observed over the same period in 2019. There were smaller reductions in Asia than elsewhere, partly related to earlier and less-marked nadirs in some countries (China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, South Korea and Vietnam). In Europe, the majority of countries (24/31, 77.4%) reduced usage by at least 50% in April. Seven countries showed smaller reductions (range − 2.85 to − 44.1%) including Poland, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Germany, Norway, Sweden and Finland. There was no significant relationship between the reduction in FRAX usage and measures of disease burden such as COVID-attributed deaths per million of the population.

Conclusion

This study documents a marked global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the management of osteoporosis as reflected by FRAX online fracture risk assessments. The analysis suggests that impact may relate to the societal and healthcare measures taken to ameliorate the pandemic.
Weak Solutions to the Muskat Problem with Surface Tension Via Optimal Transport
Authors: Jacobs Matt , Kim Inwon , Mészáros Alpár R.
Published: October 2020

Inspired by recent works on the threshold dynamics scheme for multi-phase mean curvature flow (by Esedoḡlu–Otto and Laux–Otto), we introduce a novel framework to approximate solutions of the Muskat problem with surface tension. Our approach is based on interpreting the Muskat problem as a gradient flow in a product Wasserstein space. This perspective allows us to construct weak solutions via a minimizing movements scheme. Rather than working directly with the singular surface tension force, we instead relax the perimeter functional with the heat content energy approximation of Esedoḡlu–Otto. The heat content energy allows us to show the convergence of the associated minimizing movement scheme in the Wasserstein space, and makes the scheme far more tractable for numerical simulations. Under a typical energy convergence assumption, we show that our scheme converges to weak solutions of the Muskat problem with surface tension. We then conclude the paper with a discussion on some numerical experiments and on equilibrium configurations.
Purification of a heterodimeric Reelin construct to investigate binding stoichiometry
Authors: Turk Liam S. , Mitchell Daniel , Comoletti Davide
Published: October 2020

Reelin is a secreted glycoprotein that is integral in neocortex development and synaptic function. Reelin exists as a homodimer with two chains linked by a disulfide bond at cysteine 2101, a feature that is vital to the protein’s function. This is highlighted by the fact that only dimeric Reelin can elicit efficient, canonical signaling, even though a mutated (C2101A) monomeric construct of Reelin retains the capacity to bind to its receptors. Receptor clustering has been shown to be important in the signaling pathway, however direct evidence regarding the stoichiometry of Reelin-receptor binding interaction is lacking. Here we describe the construction and purification of a heterodimeric Reelin construct to investigate the stoichiometry of Reelin-receptor binding and how it affects Reelin pathway signaling. We have devised different strategies and have finalized a protocol to produce a heterodimer of Reelin’s central fragment using differential tagging and tandem affinity chromatography, such that chain A is wild type in amino acid sequence whereas chain B includes a receptor binding site mutation (K2467A). We also validate that the heterodimer is capable of binding to the extracellular domain of one of Reelin’s known receptors, calculating the KD of the interaction. This heterodimeric construct will enable us to understand in greater detail the mechanism by which Reelin interacts with its known receptors and initiates pathway signaling.
Helicobacter pylori treatment in the post-antibiotics era—searching for new drug targets
Authors: Roszczenko-Jasińska Paula , Wojtyś Marta Ilona , Jagusztyn-Krynicka Elżbieta K.
Published: October 2020

Helicobacter pylori, a member of Epsilonproteobacteria, is a Gram-negative microaerophilic bacterium that colonizes gastric mucosa of about 50% of the human population. Although most infections caused by H. pylori are asymptomatic, the microorganism is strongly associated with serious diseases of the upper gastrointestinal tract such as chronic gastritis, peptic ulcer, duodenal ulcer, and gastric cancer, and it is classified as a group I carcinogen. The prevalence of H. pylori infections varies worldwide. The H. pylori genotype, host gene polymorphisms, and environmental factors determine the type of induced disease. Currently, the most common therapy to treat H. pylori is the first line clarithromycin–based triple therapy or a quadruple therapy replacing clarithromycin with new antibiotics. Despite the enormous recent effort to introduce new therapeutic regimens to combat this pathogen, treatment for H. pylori still fails in more than 20% of patients, mainly due to the increased prevalence of antibiotic resistant strains. In this review we present recent progress aimed at designing new anti-H. pylori strategies to combat this pathogen. Some novel therapeutic regimens will potentially be used as an extra constituent of antibiotic therapy, and others may replace current antibiotic treatments.

Key points

• Attempts to improve eradication rate of H. pylori infection.

• Searching for new drug targets in anti-Helicobacter therapies.
Urine NGAL and KIM-1: tubular injury markers in acute lymphoblastic leukemia survivors
Authors: Latoch Eryk , Konończuk Katarzyna , Taranta-Janusz Katarzyna , Muszyńska-Rosłan Katarzyna , Szymczak Edyta , Wasilewska Anna , Krawczuk-Rybak Maryna
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Nephrotoxicity is a potential adverse effect of anticancer treatment in childhood. Cytostatics, abdominal radiotherapy, total body irradiation (TBI) and some agents used in supportive care may induce acute kidney injury (AKI) or lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD). The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis whether urinary kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1) and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) are increased in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) survivors.

Method

The study cohort consisted of 86 patients (42 females) previously treated for ALL. The median time after cessation of treatment was 6.55 (IQR: 1.96–9.93) years and median age at the time of study: 12 (IQR: 6.76–16.00). The control group included 53 healthy peers. Immunoenzymatic ELISA commercial kits were used to measure urine KIM-1 and NGAL levels.

Results

The median levels of urine uNGAL (p < 0.05), uNGAL/creatinine (cr.) ratio (p < 0.0001) and uKIM-1/creatinine ratio (p < 0.0001) were significantly higher in ALL survivors in comparison with healthy controls. Female patients had significantly higher levels of NGAL and NGAL/cr. than males (mean 8.42 ± 7.1 vs. 4.59 ± 4.5 ng/mL and 86.57 ± 77 vs. 37.7 ± 37 ng/mg, respectively; p < 0.01). Of all the study participants, 11 (13%) presented eGFR below 90 mL/min/1.73 m2. The NGAL/cr. ratio seemed to be the best predictor of decreased eGFR (AUC = 0.65). The cumulative dose of methotrexate and cyclophosphamide did not predict the values of the urine NGAL, NGAL/cr., KIM-1/cr. and eGFR.

Five years after the end of treatment, the patients had higher levels of uKIM-1 (1.02 ± 0.8 vs. 0.62 ± 0.6 ng/mL, p < 0.01), uNGAL (7.9 ± 6.7 vs. 4.6 ± 5 ng/mL, p < 0.01) and lower eGFR (114 ± 29 vs. 134 ± 35 mL/min/1.73 m2, p < 0.01) in comparison with ALL survivors with the observation period of less than 5 years.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that ALL survivors have higher levels of urine NGAL, NGAL/cr. and uKIM-1/cr. ratio as compared to the control group. Further long-term follow-up studies are necessary to assess the significance of the NGAL and KIM-1 and their relationship to kidney damage after anticancer treatment in childhood.
Opportunistic osteoporosis screening: contrast-enhanced dual-layer spectral CT provides accurate measurements of vertebral bone mineral density
Authors: Roski Ferdinand , Hammel Johannes , Mei Kai , Haller Bernhard , Baum Thomas , Kirschke Jan S. , Pfeiffer Daniela , Woertler Klaus , Pfeiffer Franz , Noël Peter B. , Gersing Alexandra S. , Schwaiger Benedikt J.
Published: October 2020

Objectives

Osteoporosis remains under-diagnosed, which may be improved by opportunistic bone mineral density (BMD) measurements on CT. However, correcting for the influence of intravenous iodine-based contrast agent is challenging. The purpose of this study was to assess the diagnostic accuracy of iodine-corrected vertebral BMD measurements derived from non-dedicated contrast-enhanced phantomless dual-layer spectral CT (DLCT) examinations.

Methods

Vertebral volumetric DLCT-BMD was measured in native, arterial, and portal-venous scans of 132 patients (63 ± 16 years; 32% women) using virtual monoenergetic images (50 and 200 keV). For comparison, conventional BMD was determined using an asynchronous QCT calibration. Additionally, iodine densities were measured in the abdominal aorta (AA), inferior vena cava, and vena portae (VP) on each CT phase to adjust for iodine-related measurement errors in multivariable linear regressions and a generalized estimated equation, and conversion equations were calculated.

Results

BMD values derived from contrast-enhanced phases using conversion equations adjusted for individual vessel iodine concentrations of VP and/or AA showed a high agreement with those from non-enhanced scans in Bland-Altman plots. Mean absolute errors (MAE) of DLCT-BMD were 3.57 mg/ml for the arterial (R2 = 0.989) and 3.69 mg/ml for the portal-venous phase (R2 = 0.987) (conventional BMD: 4.70 [R2 = 0.983] and 5.15 mg/ml [R2 = 0.981]). In the phase-independent analysis, MAE was 4.49 mg/ml for DLCT (R2 = 0.989) (conventional BMD: 4.82 mg/ml [R2 = 0.981]).

Conclusions

Converted BMD derived from contrast-enhanced DLCT examinations and adjusted for individual vessel iodine concentrations showed a high agreement with non-enhanced DLCT-BMD, suggesting that opportunistic BMD measurements are feasible even in non-dedicated contrast-enhanced DLCT examinations.

Key Points

• Accurate BMD values can be converted from contrast-enhanced DLCT scans, independent from the used scan phase.

• DLCT-BMD measurements from contrast-enhanced scans should be adjusted with iodine concentrations of portal vein and/or abdominal aorta, which significantly improves the goodness-of-fit of conversion models.
Targeting myocardial ischaemic injury in the absence of reperfusion
Authors: Basalay M. V. , Yellon D. M. , Davidson S. M.
Published: October 2020

Sudden myocardial ischaemia causes an acute coronary syndrome. In the case of ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), this is usually caused by the acute rupture of atherosclerotic plaque and obstruction of a coronary artery. Timely restoration of blood flow can reduce infarct size, but ischaemic regions of myocardium remain in up to two-thirds of patients due to microvascular obstruction (MVO). Experimentally, cardioprotective strategies can limit infarct size, but these are primarily intended to target reperfusion injury. Here, we address the question of whether it is possible to specifically prevent ischaemic injury, for example in models of chronic coronary artery occlusion. Two main types of intervention are identified: those that preserve ATP levels by reducing myocardial oxygen consumption, (e.g. hypothermia; cardiac unloading; a reduction in heart rate or contractility; or ischaemic preconditioning), and those that increase myocardial oxygen/blood supply (e.g. collateral vessel dilation). An important consideration in these studies is the method used to assess infarct size, which is not straightforward in the absence of reperfusion. After several hours, most of the ischaemic area is likely to become infarcted, unless it is supplied by pre-formed collateral vessels. Therefore, therapies that stimulate the formation of new collaterals can potentially limit injury during subsequent exposure to ischaemia. After a prolonged period of ischaemia, the heart undergoes a remodelling process. Interventions, such as those targeting inflammation, may prevent adverse remodelling. Finally, harnessing of the endogenous process of myocardial regeneration has the potential to restore cardiomyocytes lost during infarction.
European Laryngological Society position paper on laryngeal dysplasia Part II: diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up
Authors: Eckel Hans Edmund , Simo Ricard , Quer Miquel , Odell Edward , Paleri Vinidh , Klussmann Jens Peter , Remacle Marc , Sjögren Elisabeth , Piazza Cesare
Published: October 2020

Purpose of review

To give an overview of the current knowledge regarding the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of laryngeal dysplasia (LD) and to highlight the contributions of recent literature.

The diagnosis of LD largely relies on endoscopic procedures and on histopathology. Diagnostic efficiency of endoscopy may be improved using videolaryngostroboscopy (VLS) and bioendoscopic tools such as Narrow Band Imaging (NBI) or Storz Professional Image Enhancement System (SPIES). Current histological classifications are not powerful enough to clearly predict the risk to carcinoma evolution and technical issues such as sampling error, variation in epithelial thickness and inflammation hamper pathological examination. Almost all dysplasia grading systems are effective in different ways. The 2017 World Health Organization (WHO) system should prove to be an improvement as it is slightly more reproducible and easier for the non-specialist pathologist to apply. To optimize treatment decisions, surgeons should know how their pathologist grades samples and preferably audit their transformation rates locally. Whether carcinoma in situ should be used as part of such classification remains contentious and pathologists should agree with their clinicians whether they find this additional grade useful in treatment decisions. Recently, different studies have defined the possible utility of different biomarkers in risk classification. The main treatment modality for LD is represented by transoral laser microsurgery. Radiotherapy may be indicated in specific circumstances such as multiple recurrence or wide-field lesions. Medical treatment currently does not have a significant role in the management of LD. Follow-up for patients treated with LD is a fundamental part of their care and investigations may be supported by the same techniques used during diagnosis (VLS and NBI/SPIES).
Intraoperative endoluminal pyloromyotomy as a novel approach to reduce delayed gastric emptying after pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy—a retrospective study
Authors: Schrempf Matthias C. , Pinto David R. M. , Gutschon Johanna , Schmid Christoph , Hoffmann Michael , Geissler Bernd , Wolf Sebastian , Sommer Florian , Anthuber Matthias
Published: October 2020

Background

Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) is one of the most common complications after pylorus-preserving partial pancreaticoduodenectomy (ppPD). The aim of this retrospective study was to assess whether an intraoperative pyloromyotomy during ppPD prior to the creation of duodenojejunostomy reduces DGE.

Methods

Patients who underwent pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy between January 2015 and December 2017 were divided into two groups on the basis of whether an intraoperative pyloromyotomy was performed (pyloromyotomy (PM) group) or not (no pyloromyotomy (NP) group). The primary endpoint was DGE according to the ISGPS definition. The confirmatory analysis of the primary endpoint was performed with multivariate analysis.

Results

One hundred and ten patients were included in the statistical analysis. Pyloromyotomy was performed in 44 of 110 (40%) cases. DGE of any grade was present in 62 patients (56.4%). The DGE rate was lower in the PM group (40.9%) compared with the NP group (66.7%), and pyloromyotomy was associated with a reduced risk for DGE in univariate (OR 0.35, 95% CI 0.16–0.76; P = 0.008) and multivariate analyses (OR 0.32, 95% CI 0.13–0.77; P = 0.011). The presence of an intra-abdominal complication was an independent risk factor for DGE in the multivariate analysis (OR 5.54, 95% CI 2.00–15.36; P = 0.001).

Conclusion

Intraoperative endoluminal pyloromyotomy during ppPD was associated with a reduced risk for DGE in this retrospective study. Pyloromyotomy should be considered a simple technique that can potentially reduce DGE rates after ppPD.
Clinical, social, and psycho-oncological needs of adolescents and young adults (AYA) versus older patients following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Pulewka Kristin , Strauss Bernhard , Hochhaus Andreas , Hilgendorf Inken
Published: October 2020

Purpose

To analyze demand for information and advice as well as medical, psychological, and social needs of adolescents and young adults (AYAs) and older patients (non-AYA) after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT).

Methods

A questionnaire was sent to 100 HSCT recipients comprising n = 50 AYAs (aged 19–39 years) and n = 50 non-AYAs (> 39 years). The questionnaire covered the categories: (a) patient characteristics; (b) need for advice, on medical, psychological, and social care topics; (c) medical, psychological, and social needs, and (d) preferred forms and channels of information.

Results

The return rate was 65%. 62.5% of patients indicated medical needs; 41.1% psychological needs, and 64.9% had needs concerning social issues. Among medical aspects, aftercare was important to both groups. Nutrition was of highest interest for AYA, while non-AYAs identified fatigue and vaccination as their most pressing concerns. Body shape/sexuality and relaxation techniques were the most common psychological issues for AYA, while coping strategies were important for both cohorts. Family, relationship and friends were of less interest in both groups. Rehabilitation and premature retirement were of highest interest for both cohorts. The preferred mode of communicating advice was one-to-one conversation in a quiet environment as opposed to informational sessions.

Conclusion

Despite well-established aftercare programs following HSCT, many patients describe unmet needs regarding medical, psychological, and social policy issues. AYA and non-AYA differ in informational needs after HSCT, and, therefore, age-appropriate informational materials are necessary. Particularly AYA may profit from information covering body-shape/sexuality and nutrition, while both cohorts require information covering coping strategies and aftercare.
Functional characterization of the AGL1 aegerolysin in the mycoparasitic fungus Trichoderma atroviride reveals a role in conidiation and antagonism
Authors: Dubey Mukesh , Jensen Dan Funck , Karlsson Magnus
Published: October 2020

Aegerolysins are small secreted pore-forming proteins that are found in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes. The role of aegerolysins in sporulation, fruit body formation, and in lysis of cellular membrane is suggested in fungi. The aim of the present study was to characterize the biological function of the aegerolysin gene agl1 in the mycoparasitic fungus Trichoderma atroviride, used for biological control of plant diseases. Gene expression analysis showed higher expression of agl1 during conidiation and during growth in medium supplemented with cell wall material from the plant pathogenic fungus Rhizoctonia solani as the sole carbon source. Expression of agl1 was supressed under iron-limiting condition, while agl1 transcript was not detected during T. atroviride interactions with the prey fungi Botrytis cinerea or R. solani. Phenotypic analysis of agl1 deletion strains (Δagl1) showed reduced conidiation compared to T. atroviride wild type, thus suggesting the involvement of AGL1 in conidiation. Furthermore, the Δagl1 strains display reduced antagonism towards B. cinerea and R. solani based on a secretion assay, although no difference was detected during direct interactions. These data demonstrate the role of AGL1 in conidiation and antagonism in the mycoparasitic fungus T. atroviride.
Growth response of Betula pubescens Ehrh. to varying disturbance factors in northern Norway
Authors: Harr Lorenz , Esper Jan , Kirchhefer J. Andreas , Zhou Wang , Hartl Claudia
Published: October 2020

Key message

Whereas cold temperatures and artificial smoke pollution (during World War II) cause negative pointer years in northern Fennoscandian downy birches, mass outbreaks of Epirrita autumnata L. and Operophtera brumata Bkh. are the strongest growth-influencing and -synchronizing factor.

Variations in radial tree growth of downy birch can be affected by short-term environmental changes. Here we examine the tree-ring width of downy birch trees for signals caused by three different disturbance factors: climatic extremes, insect outbreaks, and artificial smoke employed to hide the German battleship Tirpitz during World War II at the Kåfjord in northern Norway. Besides growth/climate response analysis using gridded climate data and a tree ring width-chronology of the studied birch trees, we analyze missing rings, pointer years, and the ability of recovery after severe disturbances on an individual tree basis using the percent change of the trees’ basal area increment with respect to a reference period. The downy birches reveal (1) a significant positive correlation with May and June temperatures, (2) a high growth sensitivity to moth epidemics (Epirrita autumnata L. and Operophtera brumata Bkh.), and (3) a distinct growth deviation in the year of intense but short-term artificial smoke pollution. We conclude that downy birches are not exclusively sensitive to unusual cold temperatures, but short-term artificial pollution and insect outbreaks cause similar growth declines in the year of occurrence. Whereas for temperature and pollution, the growth response is less coherent among trees, and fades within 2 years, the insect outbreaks synchronize growth among all downy birches. Growth declines during years of mass insect outbreaks can further be amplified by cold May and June temperatures. Our findings thereby improve the understanding of competing disturbance factors on single birch trees but also on the growth of a whole site in Fennoscandia and facilitates the detection of disturbances in birch chronologies.
Primary versus recurrent surgery for glioblastoma—a prospective cohort study
Authors: Rubin Maja Chava , Sagberg Lisa Millgård , Jakola Asgeir Store , Solheim Ole
Published: October 2020

Background

There is currently limited evidence for surgery in recurrent glioblastoma (GBM). Our aim was to compare primary and recurrent surgeries, regarding changes in perioperative, generic health-related quality of life (HRQoL), complications, extents of resection and survival.

Methods

Between 2007 and 2018, 65 recurrent and 160 primary GBM resections were prospectively enrolled. HRQoL was recorded with EQ-5D 3L preoperatively and at 1 month postoperatively. Median perioperative change in HRQoL and change greater than the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) were assessed. Tumour volume and extent of resection were obtained from pre- and postoperative MRI scans. Survival was assessed from date of surgery.

Results

Comparing recurrent surgeries and primary resections, most variables were balanced at baseline, but median age (59 vs. 62, p = 0.005) and median preoperative tumour volume (14.9 vs. 25.3 ml, p = 0.001) were lower in recurrent surgeries. There were no statistically significant differences regarding complication rates, neurological deficits, extents of resection or EQ-5D 3L index values at baseline and at follow-up. Twenty (36.4%) recurrent resections vs. 39 (27.5%) primary resections reported clinically significant deterioration in HRQoL at follow-up. Stratified by clinically significant change in EQ-5D 3L, the survival distributions were not statistically significantly different in either group. Survival was associated with extent of resection (p = 0.015) in recurrent surgeries only.

Conclusions

Outcomes after primary and recurrent surgeries were quite similar in our practice. As surgery may prolong life in patients where gross total resection is obtainable with reasonable risk, the indication for surgery in GBM should perhaps not differ that much in primary and recurrent resections.
Die „neue“ Borderline-Persönlichkeitsstörung: Dimensionale Klassifikation im DSM-5 und ICD-11
Authors: Mitmansgruber Horst
Published: October 2020

Die jahrzehntelange und zunehmende Unzufriedenheit mit der bisherigen kategorialen Klassifikation der Persönlichkeitsstörungen (PS) im amerikanischen DSM-IV und in der ICD-10 der Weltgesundheitsorganisation hat u. a. mit fehlender empirischer Unterstützung vieler Kategorien, der sehr hohen Komorbidität der PS untereinander oder der großen Heterogenität von Symptomen innerhalb einer Diagnose zu tun. Sie hat in den letzten Revisionen der beiden Diagnosesysteme einen radikalen Wandel hin zu einem dimensionalen Klassifikationssystem unterstützt, das um vieles stärker in der empirischen psychologischen Forschung abgesichert ist. Im DSM‑5 ist die Revolution ausgeblieben, weil das dimensionale Modell im Anhang verblieben ist, während die alte DSM-IV-Klassifikation unverändert übernommen wurde. Allerdings hat dieses „Alternative Modell der Persönlichkeitsstörungen“ (AMPD) seit seiner Publikation erhebliches Forschungsinteresse erfahren. In der ICD-11 ist eine dimensionale Einschätzung der Persönlichkeit auf den 5 Domänen „Negative Affectivity“, „Detachment“, „Dissociality“, „Disinhibition“ und „Anankastia“ als radikale Alternative zu den 10 bisherigen Kategorien bereits abgesegnet und wird ab 2022 weltweit die Diagnosestellung verändern. Während hier zunächst alle bisherigen Kategorien eliminiert wurden, erreichten kritische Stimmen am Ende, dass die Borderline-Störung als einziger Qualifier in der ICD-11 erhalten bleibt. Die beiden Systeme werden in ihren zentralen Annahmen und im praktischen Vorgehen beleuchtet. Die Diskussionen und die bisherige empirische Befundlage zu den Dimensionen und der klinischen Nützlichkeit für Praktiker*innen werden zusammengefasst.
Therapiemöglichkeiten des Seminoms im klinischen Stadium I und II unter Berücksichtigung der Langzeittoxizität
Authors: Papachristofilou Alexandros , Hiester Andreas , Zschäbitz Stefanie , Müller Arndt-Christian
Published: October 2020

Hintergrund

Bei mehr als 80 % aller Patienten mit einem Seminom wird die Diagnose im Stadium I–IIB gestellt. In den letzten Jahrzehnten wurden Therapiealgorithmen anhand von klinischen Studien definiert und mögliche Toxizitäten anhand von Langzeitbeobachtungen untersucht.

Fragestellung

Therapieoptionen werden unter Berücksichtigung der Langzeittoxizitäten dargelegt.

Material und Methoden

Es erfolgte eine Literaturrecherche sowie die kritische Auseinandersetzung mit Leitlinienempfehlungen und laufenden Studien.

Ergebnisse

Die präferierte Option im Stadium I ist die aktive Überwachung. Eine adjuvante Carboplatintherapie oder Strahlentherapie können das Rezidivrisiko senken. Im Stadium IIA/B wird eine primäre Strahlentherapie oder eine Polychemotherapie empfohlen. Experimentelle Ansätze testen die Lymphadenektomie und die deeskalierte Radio‑/Chemotherapie. Das Toxizitätsprofil von Radio- und Chemotherapie unterscheidet sich markant. Individuelle Nachsorgepläne nach Risikoprofil werden empfohlen.

Schlussfolgerung

Patienten mit Risikofaktoren im Stadium I haben ein relevantes Rezidivrisiko, sodass eine adjuvante Therapie gegenüber der aktiven Überwachung abgewogen werden kann. Die Wahl der Therapie im Stadium IIA/B sollte sich an der Tumorlast und den möglichen Spättoxizitäten orientieren. Strategien zur Therapiedeeskalation sind in Erarbeitung – mit ermutigenden ersten Resultaten.
COVID-19 infections and fatalities developments: empirical evidence for OECD countries and newly industrialized economies
Authors: Bretschger Lucas , Grieg Elise , Welfens Paul J. J. , Xiong Tian
Published: October 2020

This paper presents empirical results on coronavirus infection and fatality rates from cross-country regressions for OECD economies and a sample of middle- and high-income countries. We include environmental, economic, medical, and policy variables in our analysis to explain the number of corona cases and deaths per million. We find a significant positive impact of local air pollution on infection rates in the whole sample and on fatality rates for OECD countries. Obesity rates have a positive effect on cases and deaths across the different estimation equations. The strategy of aiming to achieve herd immunity has a significant positive effect on infections as well as on death rates. The first affected countries have significantly higher mortality rates, revealing the lack of experience and medical capacity to deal with the pandemic in an initial phase. Postponing – and fighting - the pandemic could save lives in many countries and generate considerable economic benefits. Other medical and policy variables discussed in the public sphere do not show a significant impact in the regression analysis. Our results suggest that improving air quality and fighting obesity helps reduce the negative effects of a coronavirus pandemic significantly. Policy options for fighting a second epidemic wave should take into account the results from this study in order to optimize global epidemic policy.
The prevalence and correlates of physical activity/inactivity and sedentary behaviour among high-school adolescents in Iran: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Ziaei Reza , Mohammadi Reza , Dastgiri Saeed , Baybordi Elaheh , Rahimi Vahab Asl , Sadeghi-Bazargani Homayoun , Viitasara Eija
Published: October 2020

Background

Physical inactivity and sedentary behaviour are the main risk factors for non-communicable diseases in all stages of life. However, there is a lack of reliable data regarding the recommended level of physical activity and its correlates related to physical inactivity and sedentary behaviour among school students in Iran. The aim of the present study was to report the prevalence and correlates of physical activity/inactivity and sedentary behaviour among Iranian high school adolescents.

Methods

The Global School-based Student Health Survey (GSHS) was used for data collection. Related data comprising socio-demographics, health risk behaviour and protective factors were obtained from 1517 high school students. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess the association between relevant independent variables (e.g. gender) and the dependent outcome variable (physical inactivity/sedentary behaviour).

Results

The prevalence of recommended physical activity by WHO was 27.8%, physical inactivity 72.2% and sedentary behaviour 71.4%. Being female, being overweight or obese, walking/cycling to or from school on 1–4 days, sitting 3 or more hours/day (sedentary behaviour), insufficient vegetable intake, being bullied and lack of parental support, peer support and parental connectivity (protective factors) were positively associated with physical inactivity. On the other hand, walking/cycling to or from school on 5–7 days and inadequate fruit intake were negatively associated with physical inactivity. Walking/cycling to or from school on 1–4 days, being physically inactive, inadequate fruit intake and being bullied were positively associated with sedentary behaviour.

Conclusion

The prevalence of physical inactivity and sedentary behaviour was high in our studied sample. Interventions that address the issue of active school transport, sedentary behaviour, fruit and vegetable intake, family and peer support and bullying should be given more priority by the public health authorities.
Critical Assessment of the Al-Ti-Zr System
Authors: Kahrobaee Z. , Palm M.
Published: October 2020

Only within the last couple of years, complete isothermal sections for the Al-Ti-Zr system have been determined. Up to then there had been several investigations, but these were limited to the Ti-Zr and Ti-Al sides and the Ti- and Al corners of the system. Also recently the system has been evaluated by thermodynamic ab initio calculations and CALPHAD-type (CALculation of PHAse Diagrams) modelling. As Al-Ti-Zr alloys are of interest for a variety of applications and as the last assessment has been performed more than 15 years ago, this new critical evaluation of the existing literature about phase equilibria in the Al-Ti-Zr system has been performed.
Systemweite Anreicherung von RNA-Protein-Komplexen
Authors: Pfister Stefan , Beckmann Benedikt M.
Published: October 2020

RNA-protein complexes (RNPs) are key players in cell physiology, especially in the context of RNA metabolism. However, their analysis has been dependent on specific protein epitopes or RNA sequence elements, preventing unbiased and cell-wide studies. We developed a three-step protocol, termed Phenol Toluol extraction (PTex), to isolate the complete suite of RNPs in cells, solely based on their unique physicochemical properties after UV-cross-linking. PTex, along with other recently developed unbiased techniques, has the potential to guide the way to cell-wide analysis of RNA-protein interactions.
Molekulare Regulation der neuronalen Plastizität und Lernprozesse
Authors: Zagrebelsky Marta
Published: October 2020

Activity-dependent plastic changes at synapses are essential for learning, but maintaining memory traces requires stable neuronal networks. The balance between plasticity and stability of the brain circuitry is tightly regulated. Among the mechanisms involved in regulating neuronal plasticity is the modulation of excitation and inhibition. Nogo-A was recently described for its ability to limit synaptic plasticity and to reciprocally regulate excitatory and inhibitory synaptic transmission.
Planning nature-based solutions: Principles, steps, and insights
Authors: Albert Christian , Brillinger Mario , Guerrero Paulina , Gottwald Sarah , Henze Jennifer , Schmidt Stefan , Ott Edward , Schröter Barbara
Published: October 2020

Nature-based solutions (NBS) find increasing attention as actions to address societal challenges through harnessing ecological processes, yet knowledge gaps exist regarding approaches to landscape planning with NBS. This paper aims to provide suggestions of how planning NBS can be conceptualized and applied in practice. We develop a framework for planning NBS by merging insights from literature and a case study in the Lahn river landscape, Germany. Our framework relates to three key criteria that define NBS, and consists of six steps of planning: Co-define setting, Understand challenges, Create visions and scenarios, Assess potential impacts, Develop solution strategies, and Realize and monitor. Its implementation is guided by five principles, namely Place-specificity, Evidence base, Integration, Equity, and Transdisciplinarity. Drawing on the empirical insights from the case study, we suggest suitable methods and a checklist of supportive procedures for applying the framework in practice. Taken together, our framework can facilitate planning NBS and provides further steps towards mainstreaming.