bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting steady‐state endoxifen plasma concentrations in breast cancer patients by CYP2D6 genotyping or phenotyping. Which approach is more reliable?
Authors: Gusella Milena , Pasini Felice , Corso Barbara , Bertolaso Laura , De Rosa Giovanni , Falci Cristina , Modena Yasmina , Barile Carmen , Da Corte Z Donatella , Fraccon AnnaPaola , Toso Silvia , Cretella Elisabetta , Brunello Antonella , Modonesi Caterina , Segati Romana , Oliani Cristina , Minicuci Nadia , Padrini Roberto ,   for the Italian TAM Group
Published: August 2020

In previous studies, steady‐state Z‐endoxifen plasma concentrations (ENDOss) correlated with relapse‐free survival in women on tamoxifen (TAM) treatment for breast cancer. ENDOss also correlated significantly with CYP2D6 genotype (activity score) and CYP2D6 phenotype (dextromethorphan test). Our aim was to ascertain which method for assessing CYP2D6 activity is more reliable in predicting ENDOss. The study concerned 203 Caucasian women on tamoxifen‐adjuvant therapy (20 mg q.d.). Before starting treatment, CYP2D6 was genotyped (and activity scores computed), and the urinary log(dextromethorphan/dextrorphan) ratio [log(DM/DX)] was calculated after 15 mg of oral dextromethorphan. Plasma concentrations of TAM, N‐desmethyl‐tamoxifen (ND‐TAM), Z‐4OH‐tamoxifen (4OH‐TAM) and ENDO were assayed 1, 4, and 8 months after first administering TAM. Multivariable regression analysis was used to identify the clinical and laboratory variables predicting log‐transformed ENDOss (log‐ENDOss). Genotype‐derived CYP2D6 phenotypes (PM, IM, NM, EM) and log(DM/DX) correlated independently with log‐ENDOss. Genotype‐phenotype concordance was almost complete only for poor metabolizers, whereas it emerged that 34% of intermediate, normal, and ultrarapid metabolizers were classified differently based on log(DM/DX). Multivariable regression analysis selected log(DM/DX) as the best predictor, with patients’ age, weak inhibitor use, and CYP2D6 phenotype decreasingly important: log‐ENDOss = 0.162 ‐ log(DM/DX) × 0.170 + age × 0.0063 ‐ weak inhibitor use × 0.250 + IM × 0.105 + (NM + UM) × 0.210; (R2 = 0.51). In conclusion, log(DM/DX) seems superior to genotype‐derived CYP2D6 phenotype in predicting ENDOss.
Structural, Dielectric, and Energy Storage Properties of Citric Acid and Ethylene Glycol Assisted Hydrothermally Synthesized Y2FeCoO6
Authors: Devi Manju , Kumar Ashavani , Kumar Ashok
Published: August 2020

Citric acid and ethylene glycol assisted hydrothermal synthesis of pure‐phase double perovskite oxide Y2FeCoO6is reported. The Rietveld refinement confirm the orthorhombic phase formation withPnmaspace group symmetry and lattice parameters as,a = 5.5039 Å,b = 7.4734 Å, andc = 5.2094 Å. The high‐resolution transmission electron micrographs exhibit formation of flakes, composed of agglomerated crystallites, oriented in [121] direction. The oxidation states of Fe as Fe3+and Co as Co2+/Co3+are observed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The room temperature relative permittivity, 6.8 × 104, is found to increase to 1.3 × 107at 473 K and frequency 500 Hz. The specific capacitance of ≈31.32 F g−1is obtained at the current density of 1 A g−1. The effective charge storage involve the redox reactions of Fe2+/Fe3+, Co2+/Co3+, and Co3+/Co4+, and excellent capacitance retention of ≈99% is achieved after 5000 charging/discharging cycles at current density of 6 A g−1.
Tunneling‐Related Leakage Currents in Coaxial GaAs/InGaP Nanowire Heterojunction Bipolar Transistors
Authors: Liborius Lisa , Bieniek Jan , Possberg Alexander , Tegude Franz-Josef , Prost Werner , Poloczek Artur , Weimann Nils
Published: August 2020

Herein, a detailed analysis of leakage mechanisms in epitaxially grown nanowire heterojunction bipolar transistors (NW‐HBTs) is presented. Coaxial npn‐GaAs/InGaP core–multishell nanowires are grown via gold‐catalyzed metalorganic vapor phase epitaxy, processed to three terminal devices and electrically characterized. The key for successful NW‐HBT device functionality is the identification of tunneling as the dominant leakage mechanism in highly doped nanowire pn‐junctions. The suppression of forward tunneling currents by adjustment of the tunneling barrier width reduces the junction leakage current density into the nA cm−2 regime, which is further verified by tunneling‐related electroluminescence measurements. In addition, the suppressed tunneling accordingly increases the number of electrons that are injected from the n‐emitter into the p‐base. The latter effect influences the performance of pn‐junction based devices and is found to enable bipolar transistor functionality. Measured common emitter Gummel plots of the NW‐HBT exhibit a current gain of up to 9 and the transistor function is additionally verified by current‐controlled output characteristics.
Augmented inverse probability weighted fractional imputation in quantile regression
Authors: Cheng Hao
Published: August 2020

By employing all the observed information and the optimal augmentation term, we propose an augmented inverse probability weighted fractional imputation method (AFI) to handle covariates missing at random in quantile regression. Compared with the existing completely case analysis, inverse probability weighting, multiple imputation and fractional imputation based on quantile regression model with missing covarites, we carry out simulation study to investigate its performance in estimation accuracy and efficiency, computational efficiency and estimation robustness. We also talk about the influence of imputation replicates in our AFI. Finally, we apply our methodology to part of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data.
Manage COVID‐19 stress, anxiety by reframing your outlook
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: August 2020

Mike Taigman, Improvement Guide at FirstWatch, helps law enforcement and other agencies improve situational awareness, clinical performance, and patient outcomes by providing strategies to change mindsets and reframe challenging circumstances to help decrease anxiety or stress.
Regen med therapeutic opportunities for fighting COVID-19
Authors: Atala Anthony , Henn Alicia , Lundberg Martha , Ahsan Taby , Greenberg Jordan , Krukin Jeff , Lynum Steven , Lutz Cat , Cetrulo Kyle , Albanna Mohammad , Pereira Taciana , Eaker Shannon , Hunsberger Joshua
Published: August 2020

This perspective from a Regenerative Medicine Manufacturing Society working group highlights regenerative medicine therapeutic opportunities for fighting COVID-19. This article addresses why SARS-CoV-2 is so different from other viruses and how regenerative medicine is poised to deliver new therapeutic opportunities to battle COVID-19. We describe animal models that depict the mechanism of action for COVID-19 and that may help identify new treatments. Additionally, organoid platforms that can recapitulate some of the physiological properties of human organ systems, such as the lungs and the heart, are discussed as potential platforms that may prove useful in rapidly screening new drugs and identifying at-risk patients. This article critically evaluates some of the promising regenerative medicine-based therapies for treating COVID-19 and presents some of the collective technologies and resources that the scientific community currently has available to confront this pandemic.
Bias testing, bias correction, and confounder selection using an instrumental variable model
Authors: Yeob Choi Byeong , Fine Jason P. , Alan Brookhart M.
Published: August 2020

Instrumental variable (IV) analysis can be used to address bias due to unobserved confounding when estimating the causal effect of a treatment on an outcome of interest. However, if a proposed IV is correlated with unmeasured confounders and/or weakly correlated with the treatment, the standard IV estimator may be more biased than an ordinary least squares (OLS) estimator. Several methods have been proposed that compare the bias of the IV and OLS estimators relying on the belief that measured covariates can be used as proxies for the unmeasured confounder. Despite these developments, there is lack of discussion about approaches that can be used to formally test whether the IV estimator may be less biased than the OLS estimator. Thus, we have developed a testing framework to compare the bias and a criterion to select informative measured covariates for bias comparison and regression adjustment. We also have developed a bias‐correction method, which allows one to use an invalid IV to correct the bias of the OLS or IV estimator. Numerical studies demonstrate that the proposed methods perform well with realistic sample sizes.
Bayesian enhancement two‐stage design with error control for phase II clinical trials
Authors: Jin Huaqing , Yin Guosheng
Published: August 2020

Phase II clinical trials make a critical decision of go or no‐go to a subsequent phase III studies. A considerable proportion of promising drugs identified in phase II trials fail the confirmative efficacy test in phase III. Recognizing the low posterior probabilities of H1 when accepting the drug under Simon's two‐stage design, the Bayesian enhancement two‐stage (BET) design is proposed to strengthen the passing criterion. Under the BET design, the lengths of highest posterior density (HPD) intervals, posterior probabilities of H0 and H1 are computed to calibrate the design parameters, aiming to improve the stability of the trial characteristics and strengthen the evidence for proceeding the drug development forward. However, from a practical perspective, the HPD interval length lacks transparency and interpretability. To circumvent this problem, we propose the BET design with error control (BETEC) by replacing the HPD interval length with the posterior error rate. The BETEC design can achieve a balance between the posterior false positive rate and false negative rate and, more importantly, it has an intuitive and clear interpretation. We compare our method with the BET design and Simon's design through extensive simulation studies. As an illustration, we further apply BETEC to two recent clinical trials, and investigate its performance in comparison with other competitive designs. Being both efficient and intuitive, the BETEC design can serve as an alternative toolbox for implementing phase II single‐arm trials.
Crystal Facet Induced Single‐Atom Pd/CoxOy on a Tunable Metal–Support Interface for Low Temperature Catalytic Oxidation
Authors: Xu Zehai , Zhang Yufan , Qin Lei , Meng Qin , Xue Zhen , Qiu Liqin , Zhang Guoliang , Guo Xinwen , Li Qingbiao
Published: August 2020

Atomic dispersed metal sites in single‐atom catalysts are highly mobile and easily sintered to form large particles, which deteriorates the catalytic performance severely. Moreover, lack of criterion concerning the role of the metal–support interface prevents more efficient and wide application. Here, a general strategy is reported to synthesize stable single atom catalysts by crafting on a variety of cobalt‐based nanoarrays with precisely controlled architectures and compositions. The highly uniform, well‐aligned, and densely packed nanoarrays provide abundant oxygen vacancies (17.48%) for trapping Pd single atoms and lead to the creation of 3D configured catalysts, which exhibit very competitive activity toward low temperature CO oxidation (100% conversion at 90 °C) and prominent long‐term stability (continuous conversion at 60 °C for 118 h). Theoretical calculations show that O vacancies at high‐index {112} facet of CoxOy nanocrystallite are preferential sites for trapping single atoms, which guarantee strong interface adhesion of Pd species to cobalt‐based support and play a pivotal role in preventing the decrement of activity, even under moisture‐rich conditions (≈2% water vapor). The progress presents a promising opportunity for tailoring catalytic properties consistent with the specific demand on target process, beyond a facile design with a tunable metal–support interface.
Sub‐3 nm Aluminum Nanocrystals Exhibiting Cluster‐Like Optical Properties
Authors: Chen Runze , Cheng Xiaoyu , Zhang Chi , Wu Hao , Zhu Haiming , He Sailing
Published: August 2020

Metal nanoclusters with distinct photophysical and photochemical properties have drawn intense research interests for their applications in optoelectronics, catalysis, and biomedicine. Herein, strong evidence is provided that light metal is capable of generating comparable optical responses of noble metal nanoclusters, but at much shorter wavelength. Air‐stable, size‐uniform, sub‐3 nm aluminum nanocrystals are prepared with simple solution based synthetic procedures, with photoluminescence located in the ultraviolet range and short exciton lifetime. Partial modulation of the photoluminescence is achieved, indicating the key role of surface oxides. This work is envisioned to inspire new frontiers of nanocluster research with light metals.
Polyimide@Ketjenblack Composite: A Porous Organic Cathode for Fast Rechargeable Potassium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Chenglin , Xu Yang , He Kaiming , Dong Yulian , Zhao Huaping , Medenbach Lukas , Wu Yuhan , Balducci Andrea , Hannappel Thomas , Lei Yong
Published: August 2020

Potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs) configurated by organic electrodes have been identified as a promising alternative to lithium‐ion batteries. Here, a porous organic Polyimide@Ketjenblack is demonstrated in PIBs as a cathode, which exhibits excellent performance with a large reversible capacity (143 mAh g−1 at 100 mA g−1), high rate capability (125 and 105 mAh g−1 at 1000 and 5000 mA g−1), and long cycling stability (76% capacity retention at 2000 mA g−1 over 1000 cycles). The domination of fast capacitive‐like reaction kinetics is verified, which benefits from the porous structure synthesized using in situ polymerization. Moreover, a renewable and low‐cost full cell is demonstrated with superior rate behavior (106 mAh g−1 at 3200 mA g−1). This work proposes a strategy to design polymer electrodes for high‐performance organic PIBs.
Simultaneous Performance and Stability Improvement of Ternary Polymer Solar Cells Enabled by Modulating the Molecular Packing of Acceptors
Authors: Gu Huimin , Yan Lingpeng , Li Zerui , Zhang Jianqi , Luo Qun , Yang Yongzhen , Liu Xuguang , Wei Zhixiang , Ma Chang-Qi
Published: August 2020

Nanoscale morphology of the active layer plays a crucial role in the power conversion efficiency (PCE) and stability of polymer solar cells (PSCs). Blending the photoactive layer with a third component to produce a ternary system is considered a reliable approach to tune the nanomorphology, thereby improving the device performance. Herein, poly[(2,6‐(4,8‐bis(5‐(2‐ethylhexyl)thiophen‐2‐yl)benzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b′]‐dithiophene)‐co‐(1,3‐di(5‐thiophen‐2‐yl)‐5,7‐bis(2‐ethylhexyl)benzo[1′,2′‐c:4,5‐c′]dithiophene‐4,8‐dione))] (PBDB‐T): 3,9‐bis(2‐methylene‐(3‐(1,1‐dicyanomethylene)‐indanone))‐5,5,11,11‐tetrakis(4‐hexylphenyl)‐dithieno[2,3‐d:2′,3′‐d′]‐s‐indaceno[1,2‐b:5,6‐b′]dithiophene) (ITIC) solar cells doped with a third small molecule are systematically investigated, namely, (5Z,5′Z)‐5,5′‐((7,7′‐(9,9‐dioctyl‐9H‐fluorene‐2,7‐diyl)bis(benzo[c]1,2,5]thiadiazole‐7,4‐diyl))‐bis(methanylyl‐idene))bis(3‐ethyl‐2‐thioxothiazolidin‐4‐one) (FBR). Owing to the wide optical bandgap of FBR, blending PBDB‐T:ITIC with FBR increases the device's light‐harvesting capability in the short wavelength range (400–550 nm), which improves the short circuit current. Differential scanning calorimetry and grazing incidence wide angle X‐ray scattering analyses reveal that the FBR exhibits impressive miscibility with ITIC, leading to the formation of ITIC:FBR alloys. Optimum performance is achieved with a PBDB‐T:ITIC:FBR (1:0.8:0.2) cell, which yields a PCE of 11.17%, demonstrating a 10% improvement relative to the PBDB‐T:ITIC binary cell. Crucially, the ternary solar cells also show improved device stability, which is attributed to the formation of ITIC:FBR alloys suppressing the crystallization of ITIC. This study provides deep insights into the performance‐ and stability‐related improvements available to PSCs devices that incorporate a third conjugated small molecule.
High Built‐in Potential Perovskite Solar Cells Realized by Incorporating a Hybrid Hole Extraction Layer
Authors: Syed Ali Asgher , Cai Linfeng , Zhu Furong
Published: August 2020

The performance of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) has been improved substantially over the past few years. However, the related fundamental understanding of improving the built‐in potential on the efficiency of the PSCs is still far from adequate. A combination of morphology, charge extraction, and built‐in potential studies would help us to gain an insight on efficient operation of the PSCs. Herein, the effect of the hybrid hole extraction layer (HEL), comprising a mixture of tungsten oxide (WO3) and poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)‐poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) (WO3–PEDOT:PSS), on the growth of the perovskite photoactive layer and built‐in potential in PSCs is investigated using structural analyses, photoelectron spectroscopy, and transient photocurrent (TPC) measurements. It shows that the use of hybrid HEL is an effective approach for enhancing the built‐in potential across the photoactive layer in the PSCs, leading to >20% increase in power conversion efficiency as compared to that of a control PSC prepared using a pristine PEDOT:PSS HEL. PSCs with a higher built‐in potential are favorable for efficient cell operation, as manifested by the charge extraction analyses and TPC measurements.
Graphene‐Based Materials in Planar Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Jianjun , Fan Jiajie , Cheng Bei , Yu Jiaguo , Ho Wingkei
Published: August 2020

Metal halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have recently become the most promising new‐generation solar cells, with a breathtaking growth of efficiency from 3.8% to 25.2% in just one decade. Scientists have abandoned the traditional high‐temperature‐processed mesoscopic layer of the initial mesoscopic PSCs in designing and manufacturing planar PSCs. This new feature endows planar PSCs with possibilities of low‐temperature processibility and large‐scale production. Nevertheless, the advancement of planar PSCs remains limited by two bottlenecks: charge loss and device degradation. To address these two issues, researchers have adopted graphene‐based materials, which demonstrate tremendous potentials due to their superb optical transparency, outstanding carrier mobility, remarkable electrical conductivity, and superior physicochemical stability. Defects inside films and at interfaces are regulated by graphene, thereby contributing to more efficient charge extraction and suppressed charge recombination. The graphene protective layer enhances the moisture and heat stability of planar PSCs, thereby extending the lifetime of devices. Herein, the typical synthesis methods of graphene and the recent applications of graphene in planar PSCs are summarized and discussed. Furthermore, concluding perspectives on current challenges and the future development of graphene in planar PSCs are proposed.
3D printing with steel
Authors: Lange Jörg , Feucht Thilo , Erven Maren
Published: August 2020

Extended keynote paper of Eurosteel 2021

Automated production is finding its way into the fabrication of structural steel. One robot holds attachments (stiffeners, end plates, etc.) on a steel beam or column and another robot produces weld seams. However, welding robots can also be used for Additive Manufacturing (Wire and Arc Additive Manufacturing, WAAM). The wire electrode serves as a printing material. The Institute of Steel Construction and Materials Mechanics in Darmstadt is investigating how typical connecting elements for steel structures can be printed directly on steel beams using Additive Manufacturing with arc welding and robots. Furthermore, structural elements such as nodes for space frames can be printed and even complete structures, e.g. columns and a little bridge, have already been manufactured additively. The main focus is on determining suitable welding and process parameters. In addition, topology optimization is necessary in order to achieve good structures using a small amount of material. This is possible due to the free design prospects of WAAM, which opens up new design and production strategies.
Optical coherence tomography for tissue classification of the larynx in an outpatient setting‐a translational challenge on the verge of a resolution?
Authors: Wittig Lukas , Betz Christian , Eggert Dennis
Published: August 2020

The detection and tissue classification of mucosal lesions of the upper aerodigestive tract (UADT) is crucial for the development of a treatment plan. Using modern endoscopic examination techniques mucosal changes can be detected early on in an office‐based setting. However, the further classification of these lesions requires a surgical procedure with a biopsy taken under general anesthesia. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a noninvasive, light‐based optical tool which can provide high‐resolution cross‐sectional images of tissue at near microscopic resolution. Applying it through a single mode optical fiber allows endoscopic approaches. Routine endoscopic assessment and a thin epithelial layer makes the larynx the perfect organ for implementing OCT into the clinical endoscopic routine. This review is focused on summarizing previous and ongoing translational applications of OCT imaging for tissue classification in the UADT focusing on the larynx, discussing limitations and benefits and offering an outlook on possible future applications.
Free will as a higher-level phenomenon?
Authors: Gebharter Alexander ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: August 2020

List (2014, 2019) has recently argued for a particular view of free will as a higher-level phenomenon compatible with determinism. According to List, one could refute his account by showing that determinism at the physical level implies the impossibility of doing otherwise at the agential level. This paper takes up that challenge. Based on assumptions to which List's approach is committed, I provide a simple probabilistic model that establishes the connection between physical determinism and the impossibility of doing otherwise at the agential level that is needed to refute free will as a higher-level phenomenon.
Oxidative stress and inflammatory effects in human lung epithelial A549 cells induced by phenanthrene, fluorene, and their binary mixture
Authors: Guo Huizhen , Zhang Zhewen , Wang Huiling , Ma Haitao , Hu Fengjing , Zhang Wenwen , Liu Yang , Huang Yushan , Zeng Yong , Li Chengyun , Wang Junling
Published: August 2020

Low molecular weight‐Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (LMW‐PAHs) are ubiquitous environmental pollutants, which may contribute to respiratory diseases. However, studies of the relative mechanisms are limited. This study aimed to explore the effects of two LMW‐PAHs [phenanthrene (Phe) and fluorene (Flu)], separately and as binary PAH mixture on oxidative stress and inflammation in A549 cells. Cell viability was firstly detected at various concentrations (200‐800 μM) by Phe, Flu, and the mixture of Phe and Flu. ROS level, MDA content, SOD and CAT activities were then determined to evaluate oxidative damage. The protein and mRNA expressions of IL‐6, TNF‐α, TGF‐β, and the protein content of SP‐A were further determined to evaluate inflammation. Results showed that Phe, Flu, and their mixture triggered ROS generation and induced abnormal productions of MDA, SOD, and CAT. And the protein and mRNA expressions of TNF‐α and IL‐6 were increased by Phe, Flu, and their mixture, respectively. In addition, SP‐A was also increased by Phe and Flu, while it was decreased by their mixture at 600 μM. The results demonstrated that Phe, Flu, and their mixture could induce oxidative stress and subsequent inflammation in A549 cells, while combined inflammatory response was stronger than single actions.
Transition from physical to virtual visit format for a longitudinal brain aging study, in response to the Covid‐19 pandemic. Operationalizing adaptive methods and challenges
Authors: Udeh‐Momoh Chinedu Theresa , de Jager‐Loots Celeste A. , Price Geraint , Middleton Lefkos T.
Published: August 2020

The COVID‐19 pandemic necessitated adaptations to standard operations and management of clinical studies, after lockdown measures put in place by several governments to reduce the spread of SARS‐COV‐2. In this paper, we describe our telehealth strategy developed for transitioning our dementia prevention clinical observational prospective study from face‐to‐face visits to virtual visits, to ensure the ongoing collection of longitudinal data. We share the lessons learned in terms of challenges experienced and solutions implemented to achieve successful administration of study assessments. Our methods will be useful for informing longitudinal observational or interventional studies that require a feasible model for remote data collection, in cognitively unimpaired adults.
Reading Comprehension Instruction for Students With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Chang Ya‐Chih , Menzies Holly M. , Osipova Anna
Published: August 2020

Students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have more difficulty in achieving proficiency in reading comprehension than their neurotypical peers. As students with ASD are increasingly educated in inclusive settings, general education teachers must have knowledge of the characteristics of autism that may impede comprehension of text to understand which instructional methods will achieve the best outcomes in reading. The authors describe how to use reading assessment measures to determine an instructional approach for students with ASD.
Die Gasdurchlässigkeit von Vakuummaterialien
Authors: Vinogradov Maksim L. , Barchenko Vladimir T. , Lisenkov Alexander A. , Kostrin Dmitrii K. , Babinov Nikita A.
Published: August 2020

Permeation von Gas durch Vakuummaterialien – Massenspektrometrische Apparatur zur Bestimmung der Gasdurchlässigkeit

Ziel der hier vorgestellten Arbeiten ist die Untersuchung der Gasdurchlässigkeit von Materialien, die in unbemannten Flugobjekten eingesetzt werden sollen. Auf der Grundlage eines Helium‐Lecksuchgerätes wurde dazu eine Messapparatur zur Bestimmung der Permeabilitätskoeffizienten aufgebaut. Aufgrund der Permeation von Helium durch die beim Aufbau verwendeten Viton‐Dichtungen beträgt der kleinste mit der Apparatur bestimmbare Fluss 10−10 Pa · m3/s. Das System wurde mit Hilfe einer PTFE‐ Probe bekannter Helium‐Gasdurchlässigkeit überprüft. Drei verschiedene Verbundmaterialien wurden untersucht und ihre Helium‐Gasdurchlässigkeit im Fließgleichgewicht bestimmt. Dabei lagen die Werte für die Permeabilität für hochmolekulares Polyethylen (HMWPE) mit einer 100 nm dicken Kupferbeschichtung bei 3,1 · 10−8 in [Pa · m3/s] · [m/(m2 · bar)], für High‐Density Polyethylen (HDPE 209‐07) mit einer 100 nm dicken Kupferbeschichtung bei 1,9 · 10−7 [Pa · m3/s] · [m/(m2 · bar)] und für die vakuumdichte Keramik VK94‐1 mit einer K400 Klebstoffschicht bei 2,2 · 10−9 [Pa · m3/s] · [m/(m2 · bar)]. Die Autoren bieten das Vermessen neuer zur Verfügung gestellter Materialien an.
Free ammonia resistance of nitrite‐oxidizing bacteria developed in aerobic granular sludge cultivated in continuous upflow airlift reactors performing partial nitritation
Authors: An Zhaohui , Kent Timothy R. , Sun Yewei , Bott Charles B. , Wang Zhi‐Wu
Published: August 2020

Free ammonia (FA) inhibition has been taken advantage as a strategy to suppress the growth of nitrite‐oxidizing bacteria (NOB) in aerobic granules stabilized in a continuous upflow airlift reactor to achieve partial nitritation. However, after nearly 18 months of continuous exposure of aerobic granules to FA in the reactor, the FA inhibition of NOB was proven ineffective, and the partial nitritation gradually shifted to partial nitrification even though the long‐term granule structural stability remained excellent under the continuous‐flow mode. The extent of NOB resistance to FA inhibition was quantified based on the kinetic response of NOB to various FA concentrations in the form of an uncompetitive inhibition coefficient. It was confirmed that the NOB immobilized in larger granules under longer term exposure to FA tend to become more resistant to FA. Thereby, it was concluded that NOB can develop strong resistance to FA after continuous exposure, and thus, FA inhibition is not a reliable strategy to achieve partial nitritation in mainstream wastewater treatment.

Practitioner points

Nitrifying aerobic granules can remain structurally stable in continuous‐flow bioreactors.

NOB developed free ammonia resistance after 6‐month continuous exposure.

Larger aerobic granules tended to develop stronger free ammonia resistance.

Free ammonia inhibition is not a reliable strategy for mainstream anammox.
Preference assessments as a tool to evaluate environmental enrichment
Authors: Woods Jocelyn M. , Lane Erin K. , Miller Lance J.
Published: August 2020

Environmental enrichment is an important tool utilized to improve animal welfare in zoological institutions through opportunity for mental and physical stimulation. Many past studies have focused on the impact enrichment has on animal behavior; however, none have conducted preference assessments on enrichment items to examine the relationship between animals' preferences and interaction with enrichment over a 24‐hr period. Ten‐minute free operant, paired‐choice preference assessments were implemented in Study 1 to determine the enrichment preferences of African lions (N = 3). Following Study 1, Study 2 was conducted, which examined the behavior of African lions with enrichment items over the course of 30, 24‐hr trials to evaluate the relationship between preferences established in Study 1 and long‐term interaction with the enrichment. Generalized estimating equations revealed a statistically significant relationship between the percentage of time the enrichment was approached first and the average duration of interaction in Study 1 to the total duration of interaction and the percent of hours interacted with the item in Study 2. Additionally, the first 2 min of the preference data resulted in comparable statistically significant findings, demonstrating shorter preference assessments can produce similar results. The results support our prediction that preference assessments can be used to estimate the amount of interaction with enrichment over the course of time, with preferred items being interacted with more frequently and in longer duration. Information gained from this study suggests preference assessments can be a time and cost‐effective tool to evaluate enrichment preference and predicted efficacy.
Formalised Boundaries Between Polytechnics and Technical Universities: Experiences from Portugal and Finland
Authors: Carvalho Teresa , Diogo Sara
Published: August 2020

The chapter demonstrates the relevance of contextual factors in the potential transformation of non-university institutions into ‘technical universities’. The phenomena of professional and academic drift have challenged the pertinence of the existence of binary Higher Education (HE) systems. Portugal and Finland have been facing this problem and the governments of both countries called on the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) to advise them on the relevance of its maintenance. The chapter aims at enriching the conceptual discussion over the social representation of the ‘technical university’ by discussing the relevance of the context in the evolving process of the actual non-university institutions. Data analysis is supported by empirical evidence gathered through 26 interviews conducted with key actors as well as on content analysis of policy reports in order to understand how the co-existence of different types of higher education institutions (HEI) is envisioned in the two countries. This chapter establishes a linkage to the scope of this volume by evidencing the relevance of contextual factors in the potential transformation of non-university institutions in ‘technical universities’ in the two countries. The results reveal a convergence in the recommendations regarding the maintenance and reinforcement of differentiated HE systems. However, the operationalisation of this differentiation translates into distinct roles for professional institutions in each country, suggesting a path of continuity for Portugal and discontinuity for Finland.
Technical Identity in a MergerProcess—Between a Rock and a Hard Place
Authors: Vellamo Tea , Pekkola Elias , Siekkinen Taru , Cai Yuzhuo
Published: August 2020

University mergers are sites of self-reflection where the identities of the institutions in question are juxtaposed and challenged. We examine the organisational identity of a Finnish single-faculty technical university in the context of a merger process with a comprehensive multi-disciplinary university and a university of applied sciences. Through interview data, we shed light on the self-conception of the technical university compared with the other higher education institutions. According to our analysis, the identity of the technical university is constructed and represented in relation to the aspects of society and entrepreneurialism, academic discipline and, particularly, the technical disciplines, engineering identity and organisational form and function. These aspects are compared with the aspects associated with the two other institutions involved in the merger. The self-representation of the technical university depends on whether it is compared with the research-oriented comprehensive university or with the practically oriented university of applied sciences. Although there are shared aspects of organisational identity, the identity of the technical university seems unique, and neither of the other institutions have a similar identity or offer the possibility of shared identity formation.
Refined Zigzag Theory: an appropriate tool for the analysis of CLT-plates and other shear-elastic timber structures
Authors: Wimmer Heinz , Hochhauser Werner , Nachbagauer Karin
Published: August 2020

Cross laminated timber (CLT), as a structural plate-like timber product, has been established as a load bearing product for walls, floor and roof elements. In a bending situation due to the transverse shear flexibility of the crossing layers, the warping of the cross section follows a zigzag pattern which should be considered in the calculation model. The Refined Zigzag Theory (RZT) can fulfill this requirement in a very simple and efficient way. The RZT, founded in 2007 by A. Tessler (NASA Langley Research Center), M. Di Sciuva and M. Gherlone (Politecnico Torino) is a very robust and accurate analysis tool, which can handle the typical zigag warping of the cross section by introducing only one additional kinematic degree of freedom in case of plane beams and two more in case of biaxial bending of plates. Thus, the RZT-kinematics is able to reflect the specific and local stress behaviour near concentrated loads in combination with a warping constraint, while most other theories do not. A comparison is made with different methods of calculation, as the modified Gamma-method, the Shear Analogy method (SA) and the First Order Shear Deformation Theory (FSDT). For a test example of a two-span continuous beam, an error estimation concerning the maximum bending stress is presented depending on the slenderness L/h and the width of contact area at the intermediate support. A stability investigation shows that FSDT provides sufficiently accurate results if the ratio of bending and shear stiffness is in a range as stated in the test example. It is shown that by a simple modification in the determination of the zigzag function, the scope can be extended to beams with arbitrary non-rectangular cross section. This generalization step considerably improves the possibilities for the application of RZT. Furthermore, beam structures with interlayer slip can easily be treated. So the RZT is very well suited to analyze all kinds, of shear-elastic structural element like CLT-plate, timber-concrete composite structure or doweled beam in an accurate and unified way.
Accuracy of the pneumatic follower for the wooden surface quality assessment
Authors: Jermak Cz. J. , Rucki M. , Jakubowicz M.
Published: August 2020

Wooden or wood-plastic composite surfaces are often valued for their aesthetic appearance and the quality of the surface. Independent from the technology, the surface features may be assessed using typical roughness parameters. In this paper, a pneumatic non-contact method is proposed. Despite certain limitations in surface characteristics measurement, air gauges proved to be a good tool for wooden surfaces, much cheaper than the laser profilometers. In the current research, a novel non-contact air gauge was combined with a slider to eliminate the influence of the asperities of higher order (waviness) and to protect the wooden surface from being damaged by the measuring nozzle. The measurement signal was used to control a follower that kept constant distance between the surface and the nozzle edge. The measuring speed was set at 0.8 mm/s, and the back-pressure was measured with accuracy of 0.01 kPa with real time acquisition. A series of measurements was taken, and the results were compared with the ones obtained from Perthen S8P profilometer (contact measurement) and WYKO NT 1100 interferometer microscope.
Non-aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage in COVID-19
Authors: Harrogate Suzanne , Mortimer Alex , Burrows Lorna , Fiddes Barnaby , Thomas Ian , Rice Claire M
Published: August 2020

Coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) is associated with hypercoagulopathy, but haemorrhage, including spontaneous intracerebral parenchymal haemorrhage and diffuse petechial cerebral haemorrhage, has also been reported. We present two cases of nonaneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) in patients with severe COVID-19. Careful review of neuroimaging for haemorrhagic complications of COVID-19 should be undertaken, particularly for those patients receiving enhanced prophylaxis for venous thromboembolism. Although likely to be a marker of severe disease, non-aneurysmal SAH can be associated with favourable outcome.
Changes in Emergency General Surgery During Covid‐19 in Scotland: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Dick Lachlan , Green James , Brown Jasmine , Kennedy Ewan , Cassidy Richard , Othman Salasiah , Berlansky Martin
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Covid‐19 has had a significant impact on all aspects of health care. We aimed to characterise the trends in emergency general surgery at a district general hospital in Scotland.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was performed from 23/03/20 to 07/05/20. All emergency general surgery patients were included. Demographics, diagnosis and management were recorded along with Covid‐19 testing and results. Thirty‐day mortality and readmission rates were also noted. Similar data were collected on patients admitted during the same period in 2019 to allow for comparison.

Results

A total of 294 patients were included. There was a 58.3 per cent reduction in admissions when comparing 2020 with 2019 (85 vs 209); however, there was no difference in age (53.2 vs 57.2 years, p = 0.169) or length of stay (4.8 vs 3.7 days, p = 0.133). During 2020, the diagnosis of appendicitis increased (4.3 vs 18.8 per cent, p = < 0.05) as did severity (0 per cent > grade 1 vs 58.3 per cent > grade 1, p = < 0.05). The proportion of patients undergoing surgery increased (19.1 vs 42.3 per cent, p = < 0.05) as did the mean operating time (102.4 vs 145.7 min, p = < 0.05). Surgery was performed in 1 confirmed and 1 suspected Covid‐19 patient. The latter died within 30 days. There were no 30‐day readmissions with Covid‐19 symptoms.

Conclusion

Covid‐19 has significantly impacted the number of admissions to emergency general surgery. However, emergency operating continues to be needed at pre‐Covid‐19 levels and as such provisions need to be made to facilitate this.
Equilibrium crystallization of massif-type anorthosite residual melts: a case study from the 1.64 Ga Ahvenisto complex, Southeastern Finland
Authors: Fred Riikka , Heinonen Aku , Heinonen Jussi S.
Published: August 2020

Fe–Ti–P-rich mafic to intermediate rocks (monzodiorites and oxide–apatite–gabbronorites, OAGNs) are found as small intrusions in most AMCG (anorthosite–magnerite–charnokite–granite) suites. The origin of the monzodioritic rocks is still debated, but in many studies, they are presumed to represent residual liquid compositions after fractionation of anorthositic cumulates. In the 1.64 Ga Ahvenisto complex, SE Finland, monzodioritic rocks occur as minor dike-like lenses closely associated with anorthositic rocks. We report new field, petrographic, and geochemical (XRF, ICP-MS, EMPA) data complemented with crystallization modeling (rhyolite-MELTS, MAGFRAC) for the monzodioritic rocks, apatite–oxide–gabbronorite, and olivine-bearing anorthositic rocks of the Ahvenisto complex. The presented evidence suggest that the monzodioritic rocks closely represent melt compositions while the apatite–oxide–gabbronorite and olivine-bearing anorthositic rocks are cumulates. The monzodioritic rocks seem to form a liquid line of descent (LLD) from primitive olivine monzodiorites to more evolved monzodiorites. Petrological modeling suggests that the interpreted LLD closely corresponds to a residual melt trend left after fractional crystallization (FC) and formation of the cumulate anorthositic rocks and minor apatite–oxide–gabbronorite in shallow magma chambers. Consequent equilibrium crystallization (EC) of separate monzodioritic residual magma batches can produce the observed mineral assemblages and the low Mg numbers measured from olivine (Fo25–45) and pyroxenes (En48–63, Mg#cpx 60–69). The monzodioritic rocks and apatite–oxide–gabbronorites show similar petrological and geochemical characteristics to corresponding rock types in other AMCG suites, and the model described in this study could be applicable to them as well.
Optimising the outcomes of index admission laparoscopic cholecystectomy and bile duct exploration for biliary emergencies: a service model
Authors: Nassar Ahmad H. M. , Ng Hwei J. , Ahmed Zubir , Wysocki Arkadiusz Peter , Wood Colin , Abdellatif Ayman
Published: August 2020

Aims

The rate of acute laparoscopic cholecystectomy remains low due to operational constraints. The purpose of this study is to evaluate a service model of index admission cholecystectomy with referral protocols, refined logistics and targeted job planning.

Methods

A prospectively maintained dataset was evaluated to determine the processes of care and outcomes of patients undergoing emergency biliary surgery. The lead author has maintained a 28 years prospective database capturing standard demographic data, intraoperative details including the difficulty of cholecystectomy as well as postoperative outcome parameters and follow up data.

Results

Over five thousand (5555) consecutive laparoscopic cholecystectomies were performed. Only patients undergoing emergency procedures (2399,43.2% of entire group) were analysed for this study. The median age was 52 years with 70% being female. The majority were admitted with biliary pain (34%), obstructive jaundice (26%) and acute cholecystitis (16%). 63% were referred by other surgeons. 80% underwent surgery within 5 days (40% within 24 h). Cholecystectomies were performed on scheduled lists (44%) or dedicated emergency lists (29%). Two thirds had suspected bile duct stones and 38.1% underwent bile duct exploration. The median operating time was 75 min, median hospital stay 7 days, conversion rate 0.8%, morbidity 8.9% and mortality rate 0.2%.

Conclusion

Index admission cholecystectomy for biliary emergencies can have low rates of morbidity and mortality. Timely referral and flexible theatre lists facilitate the service, optimising clinical results, number of biliary episodes, hospital stay and presentation to resolution intervals. Cost benefits and reduced interval readmissions need to be weighed against the length of hospital stay per episode.
Long-term costs of post-restorations: 7-year practice-based results from Germany
Authors: Schwendicke Falk , Kramer Enno J. , Krois Joachim , Meyer-Lueckel Hendrik , Wierichs Richard Johannes
Published: August 2020

Objectives

We evaluated the initial and follow-up treatment costs of different post-restorations in a practice-based German healthcare setting.

Methods

A total of 139 incisors, canines, or premolars received post-restorations placed by eight general dental practitioners in Germany, and were followed over a mean ± SD 7.1 ± 4.5 years. Preformed metal (MP, n = 68), glass-fiber (GF, n = 28), or cast post-and-core buildups (MC, n = 23) had been used to retain crowns or bridge anchors. Preformed metal and glass-fiber had also been used to retain directly built up post-retained composite restorations (PC, n = 20). Material and treatment costs for the initial post-restorations as well as restorative, endodontic, or surgical re-treatments were estimated from a public-payer-perspective in Germany. Associations between total and annualized total costs and covariates were assessed using generalized linear modeling. The study was registered in the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS-ID: DRKS00012938).

Results

MC showed highest initial treatment costs (557.23 Euro), but the least re-treatments (6/23, 26%), while PC showed lowest initial costs (203.52 Euro) but the most re-treatments (11/20, 55%). Costs for MP/GF post-crowns were initially similarly costly (496.47/496.87 Euro), and both also showed similar re-treatments (35%/36%). The overall annual failure rate was 5.2% (MC: 3.5%, MP: 4.6%, GF: 5.3%, PC: 10.3%). Including costs for the resulting re-treatments, mean total costs were 591.66 Euro (MC), 548.31 Euro (MP), 526.37 Euro (GF), and 361.81 Euro (PC). Annualized total costs were 171.36 Euro (MC), 141.75 Euro (MP), 146.12 Euro (GF), and 135.65 Euro (PC). Total and annualized total costs were highest for MC, with PC being the significantly less costly option (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Within German healthcare, both initial and follow-up costs for post-restorations were considerable. Saving costs initially may, at least partially, be offset by more complications long-term.

Clinical relevance

Dentists need to be aware that the placement of posts is not only initially costly but also comes with significant long-term costs for treating occurring complications. This should be communicated with patients and considered during treatment planning.