bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of discretization of the timeline for longitudinal causal inference methods
Authors: Ferreira Guerra Steve , Schnitzer Mireille E. , Forget Amélie , Blais Lucie
Published: September 2020

In longitudinal settings, causal inference methods usually rely on a discretization of the patient timeline that may not reflect the underlying data generation process. This article investigates the estimation of causal parameters under discretized data. It presents the implicit assumptions practitioners make but do not acknowledge when discretizing data to assess longitudinal causal parameters. We illustrate that differences in point estimates under different discretizations are due to the data coarsening resulting in both a modified definition of the parameter of interest and loss of information about time‐dependent confounders. We further investigate several tools to advise analysts in selecting a timeline discretization for use with pooled longitudinal targeted maximum likelihood estimation for the estimation of the parameters of a marginal structural model. We use a simulation study to empirically evaluate bias at different discretizations and assess the use of the cross‐validated variance as a measure of data support to select a discretization under a chosen data coarsening mechanism. We then apply our approach to a study on the relative effect of alternative asthma treatments during pregnancy on pregnancy duration. The results of the simulation study illustrate how coarsening changes the target parameter of interest as well as how it may create bias due to a lack of appropriate control for time‐dependent confounders. We also observe evidence that the cross‐validated variance acts well as a measure of support in the data, by being minimized at finer discretizations as the sample size increases.
Casting of Gold Nanoparticles with High Aspect Ratios inside DNA Molds
Authors: Ye Jingjing , Weichelt Richard , Kemper Ulrich , Gupta Vaibhav , König Tobias A. F. , Eychmüller Alexander , Seidel Ralf
Published: September 2020

DNA nanostructures provide a powerful platform for the programmable assembly of nanomaterials. Here this approach is extended to synthesize rod‐like gold nanoparticles in a full DNA controlled manner. The approach is based on DNA molds containing elongated cavities. Gold is deposited inside the molds using a seeded‐growth procedure. By carefully exploring the growth parameters it is shown that gold nanostructures with aspect ratios of up to 7 can be grown from single seeds. The highly anisotropic growth is in this case controlled only by the rather soft and porous DNA walls. The optimized seeded growth procedure provides a robust and simple routine to achieve continuous gold nanostructures using DNA templating.
Improving deep‐learning‐based fault localization with resampling
Authors: Zhang Zhuo , Lei Yan , Mao Xiaoguang , Yan Meng , Xu Ling , Wen Junhao
Published: September 2020

Many fault localization approaches recently utilize deep learning to learn an effective localization model showing a fresh perspective with promising results. However, localization models are generally learned from class imbalance datasets; that is, the number of failing test cases is much fewer than passing test cases. It may be highly susceptible to affect the accuracy of learned localization models. Thus, in this paper, we explore using data resampling to reduce the negative effect of the imbalanced class problem and improve the accuracy of learned models of deep‐learning‐based fault localization. Specifically, for deep‐learning‐based fault localization, its learning feature may require duplicate essential data to enhance the weak but beneficial experience incurred by the class imbalance datasets. We leverage the property of test cases (i.e., passing or failing) to identify failing test cases as the duplicate essential data and propose an iterative oversampling approach to resample failing test cases for producing a class balanced test suite. We apply the test case resampling to representative localization models using deep learning. Our empirical results on eight large‐sized programs with real faults and four large‐sized programs with seeded faults show that the test case resampling significantly improves fault localization effectiveness.
Advanced Battery‐Type Anode Materials for High‐Performance Sodium‐Ion Capacitors
Authors: Deng Xinglan , Zou Kangyu , Cai Peng , Wang Baowei , Hou Hongshuai , Zou Guoqiang , Ji Xiaobo
Published: September 2020

High‐efficiency energy storage technologies and devices have gained numerous attention because of their ever‐increasing requirement. Sodium‐ion capacitors (SICs), as a burgeoning electrochemical energy storage device, combine virtues of rechargeable batteries and electrochemical double layer supercapacitors, delivering both high energy–power density and long cycling life. In the past decades, great efforts have been made to find suitable anode material to conquer the kinetic imbalance between the battery‐type anode with sluggish bulk redox reaction and the capacitor‐type cathode with fast ion absorption/desorption process. By exploring high‐rate performance anode materials, the great reaction kinetic gap between cathodes and anodes can be narrowed down, which directly affects the energy–power densities of SICs. In this article, an overview of advanced battery‐type anode materials is offered for high‐performance SICs with an emphasis on anode structural design and improved energy–power density, including carbonaceous materials, metallic compounds, MXene, organic polymers, and so on. Furthermore, the implementation of presodiation for the sake of optimizing the SICs is also illustrated. Finally, the challenges faced and the perspectives for future developing trends of SICs are discussed.
Alkaline‐Earth Metal Ion Turn‐On Circularly Polarized Luminescence and Encrypted Selective Recognition of AMP
Authors: Zhao Yang , Niu Dian , Tan Jiajing , Jiang Yuqian , Zhu Huajie , Ouyang Guanghui , Liu Minghua
Published: September 2020

Circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) provides fundamental insights into the chiral structural information of luminescent materials at their excited states, thus contributing to the possibility of encrypting both chirality and luminescence information into functional materials for multi‐purpose applications such as smart chiroptical devices and encrypted recognition systems. Here, by coordination of alkali‐earth metal ions with a chiral histidine‐functionalized amphiphile (methyl (E)‐(2‐styrylthiazole‐4‐carbonyl)‐l‐histidinate, abbreviated as STH), both fluorescence (FL), and CPL signals are encoded into the STH metal complexes. Impressively, the CPL‐active STH/Mg2+ complex features an encrypted selective recognition ability of adenosine monophosphate (AMP) among the three types of adenosine phosphates (ATP, ADP, and AMP), while FL signals cannot distinguish them. It is found that the trans‐cis photo‐isomerization of styrene moiety in the building block leads to significant switching between different molecular configurations, FL and CPL signals, producing a high‐efficiency ON–OFF FL and CPL switch. Although FL switch shows negligible discrimination for three types of adenosines, the CPL‐ON state can efficiently recognize AMP at physiological concentration range, which highlights its prospect as a smart CPL probe toward chiral bioactive compounds.
The Application of Graphene Derivatives in Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Su Hongzhen , Wu Tianhao , Cui Danyu , Lin Xuesong , Luo Xinhui , Wang Yanbo , Han Liyuan
Published: September 2020

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have attracted much attention due to their high efficiency and low manufacturing cost. However, the defects in perovskite films and the instability issue caused by ion migration limit the further improvement of its efficiency and stability. Graphene and its derivatives are potential materials to solve these problems due to their rich functional groups, environmental stability and compactness, which triggered extensive researches in recent years. In this paper, the development and preparation methods of graphene materials are summarized and then their applications in PSCs are reviewed, with particular emphasis on their function of blocking ion migration.
Examining the Interfacial Defect Passivation with Chlorinated Organic Salt for Highly Efficient and Stable Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Azam Muhammad , Khan Abbas Ahmad , Liang Guang-Xing , Li Gui-Jun , Chen Shuo , Zheng Zhuang-Hao , Farooq Umar , Ishaq Muhammad , Fan Ping , Wang Zhijie , Wang Zhan-Guo
Published: September 2020

In perovskite solar cells (PSCs), the interfaces between perovskite film and charge transport layers have an enormous influence on the device performance and stability. Recently, it has been proven that the surface defect passivation of perovskite layer is an effective strategy to improve the device efficiency. Herein, an organic ammonium salt benzyltriethylammonium chloride ([BZTAm]Cl) is used as an ultra‐thin modification layer in perovskite films in MAPbI3 PSCs for passivating the surface defects. The obtained results demonstrate that the [BZTAm]Cl modifier improves the crystallization/morphology of perovskite film and effectively aligns the energy levels with the corresponding charge‐transporting layers, suppressing the nonradiative recombination and reducing the trap state density. As a result, a champion device efficiency of 20.45% is achieved for optimized concentration of [BZTAm]Cl in comparison with 17.87% for the control device. Moreover, the unencapsulated device presents a good long‐term stability after aging in an ambient environment with 40–50% relative humidity conditions for 30 days.
A sonographer's guide to the clinical utility of left ventricular speckle tracking strain
Authors: Jin Wang Nikolas , Perry Rebecca
Published: September 2020

Speckle tracking strain (STS) is an advanced echocardiographic modality that is being increasingly implemented as part of the routine clinical echocardiographic assessment. It can overcome many of the limitations of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), as STS also accounts for segmental LV function and detects multi‐directional components of myocardial deformation. Furthermore, it is able to detect sub‐clinical changes in LV function, which may not be reflected by the LVEF. This may allow more opportunity for intervention prior to the development of overt heart failure in patients with conditions, or undergoing treatments, that increase the risk of LV dysfunction, such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension and some chemotherapy treatments. Moreover, STS may assist in differentiation of aetiology in patients with increased LV wall thickness, as well as assisting with better timing of surgery for patients with valvular disease.
Anisotropic Growth of Al‐Intercalated Vanadate by Tuning Surface Hydrophilicity for High‐Rate Zn‐Ion Storage
Authors: Wu Hao , Ming Fangwang , Lei Yongjiu , Zhang Wenli , Alshareef Husam N.
Published: September 2020

Aqueous zinc‐ion battery (ZIB) cathodes with high rate performance are still lacking due to the sluggish kinetics of Zn2+ insertion. Herein, preferential 2D spreading surface is constructed on conductive carbon paper (C‐paper) supports by disclosing hierarchical porous structures. The unique surface hydrophilicity enables anisotropic growth of layered Al‐intercalated vanadate nanobelts with high‐aspect ratios. As a cathode of ZIB, the preintercalated vanadate nanobelts with a large interlayer spacing (1.38 nm) exhibit high specific capacities and excellent rate performance (534 and 221 mA h g−1 at 1 and 20 A g−1, respectively). Moreover, chemically resistant HfO2 layers are applied by atomic layer deposition to prevent effectively the cathode from degradation, leading to an outstanding cycling stability (88% retention at 1000 cycle). The anisotropic growth of 2D electrode materials by tuning the surface hydrophilicity provides an effective pathway for designing improved electrode materials for various energy storage technologies.
An investigation into the factors influencing the cyclic behaviour of buckling‐restrained steel plate shear walls
Authors: Munesi Ali , Sharbatdar Mohammadkazem , Gholhaki Majid
Published: September 2020

Steel plate shear walls (SPSW) are being increasingly used in steel or concrete structures as lateral load‐resisting systems. Shear buckling is one of the major shortcomings of the SPSW and so to address this issue, buckling‐restrained steel plate shear walls (BRSPSW) have started to appear. Owing to the novel concept of this structural system, this paper aims to investigate the effect of factors influencing the response of BRSPSWs. For this purpose, a parametric study was conducted using ABAQUS software. Based on the results acquired from the hysteretic curves, an increase in the concrete compressive strength does not markedly affect the ductility and energy dissipation capacity. Moreover, it was observed that as the width of the gap between concrete panel and steel plate grows, the energy dissipation and response modification factor are reduced. Besides, the results indicate that as steel strength increases, so energy dissipation increases from 0.7 to 11.7 %. Accordingly, based on a comparison between the rate of improvement in shear capacity arising from an increase in the strength of the concrete panels, frame and steel plate, it is concluded that it would be much more rational to increase the concrete strength so that a high shear capacity can be achieved for the BRSPSW. Lastly, in all models, as the gap width increases from 0 to 20 mm and 20 to 35 mm, ductility decreases by 41 and 30 % respectively.
Experimental optimization of metakaolin and nanosilica composite for geopolymer concrete paver blocks
Authors: Angelin Lincy G. , Velkennedy R.
Published: September 2020

In the recent past, there is an increased interest throughout the research community to minimize the production of ozone harming substances which directly affect global warming. Cement production and consumption emit 7% ozone‐depleting substances into the atmosphere consistently. In an attempt to address this challenge, one of the efficient decisions being employed as of late incorporates the utilization of geopolymer concrete (GPC). In this paper, metakaolin is viewed as the key component which is rich in silica and alumina, responsible for the strength and durability of the GPC mix product. It is exposed to varying compositions to discover the ideal compositions to find out the optimum loading that gives the best properties and performance to the GPC paver blocks. Additionally, nanosilica which reduces the pores is included little amounts to the optimized GPC mix to comprehend the additional impact it accommodates the advancement of the performance of GPC mix paver blocks. In order to examine the performance of GPC paver blocks, properties such as density, compressive strength, water absorption, and abrasion resistance were evaluated for different loading levels of metakaolin (10, 20, 30, and 40%) and nanosilica (0.5 and 1%) GPC mix samples. It is seen that 30% metakaolin and 0.5% addition of nanosilica give optimum results than other combination of materials in the GPC mix.
Autocatalysis: Kinetics, Mechanisms and Design
Authors: Hanopolskyi Anton I. , Smaliak Viktoryia A. , Novichkov Alexander I. , Semenov Sergey N.
Published: September 2020

The importance of autocatalysis spans from practical applications such as in chemically amplified photoresists, to autocatalysis playing a fundamental role in evolution as well as a plausible key role in the origin of life. The phenomenon of autocatalysis is characterized by its kinetic signature rather than by its mechanistic aspects. The molecules that form autocatalytic systems and the mechanisms underlying autocatalytic reactions are very diverse. This chemical diversity, combined with the strong involvement of chemical kinetics, creates a formidable barrier for entrance to the field. Understanding these challenges, we wrote this Review with three main goals in mind: (i) To provide a basic introduction to the kinetics of autocatalytic systems and its relation to the role of autocatalysis in evolution, (ii) To provide a comprehensive overview, including tables, of synthetic chemical autocatalytic systems, and (iii) To provide an in‐depth analysis of the concept of autocatalytic reaction networks, their design, and perspectives for their development.
Supporting students' meaningful engagement in scientific modeling through epistemological messages: A case study of contrasting teaching approaches
Authors: Ke Li , Schwarz Christina V.
Published: September 2020

Teachers' instructional practices are critical for guiding students' engagement in scientific practices within the classroom knowledge building community. In this study, we seek to understand how teachers' instructional supports of epistemic aspects involved in scientific modeling may influence students' meaningful engagement in the practice. In particular, we examine two upper elementary teachers' epistemological messages about modeling over the course of a model‐based unit and focus group conversations in consensus model activities to explore the relationship between teachers' instructional supports and students' practice. The results suggest that each teacher was sharing complex messages about various aspects of the modeling practice ranging from procedural to epistemic. Further, those messages were then reflected in students' work. Our findings indicate that teachers' (a) foregrounding of epistemological messages, (b) consistency in emphasizing those messages, and (c) unpacking of those messages may play an important role in how epistemological ideas about modeling are taken up by students. We conclude the paper by discussing implications for supporting teachers in meaningfully enacting modeling practice.
Serial cervical‐length measurements after first episode of threatened preterm labor improve prediction of spontaneous delivery prior to 37 weeks' gestation
Authors: Chiossi G. , Facchinetti F. , Vergani P. , Di Tommaso M. , Marozio L. , Acaia B. , Pignatti L. , Locatelli A. , Spitaleri M. , Benedetto C. , Zaina B. , D'Amico R. ,   PROTECT Collaborative Group
Published: September 2020

Objective

To assess whether repeat cervical‐length (CL) measurement in women discharged from hospital after their first episode of threatened preterm labor can predict their risk of spontaneous preterm birth.

Methods

This was a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial of maintenance tocolysis, in which CL was measured on transvaginal ultrasound at the time of hospital discharge and after 2, 4, 8 and 12 weeks, in women who remained undelivered after their first episode of threatened preterm labor. After univariate analysis, multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to assess whether CL < 10 mm at the time of hospital discharge or at any follow‐up evaluation could predict spontaneous delivery prior to 37 weeks of gestation.

Results

Of 226 women discharged after a diagnosis of threatened preterm labor, 57 (25.2%) delivered spontaneously prior to 37 weeks' gestation. The risk of spontaneous preterm birth was higher among women with CL < 10 mm at hospital discharge compared to those with CL ≥ 10 mm (adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 3.3; 95% CI, 1.2–9.2). Moreover, spontaneous preterm delivery was more common when CL < 10 mm was detected up to 2 weeks (aOR, 2.9; 95% CI, 1.1–7.3) or up to 4 weeks (aOR, 7.3; 95% CI, 2.3–22.8) post discharge, as compared with when CL was persistently ≥ 10 mm. The association was not significant when considering CL measurements at 8 weeks, and there was insufficient information to assess the effect of measurements obtained at 12 weeks.

Conclusions

Women who remain undelivered after their first episode of threatened preterm labor continue to be at high risk of spontaneous preterm birth if their CL is below 10 mm at the time of hospital discharge or at any follow‐up visit up to 4 weeks later. CL measurement could be included in the antenatal care of these women in order to stratify their risk of preterm birth, rationalize resource utilization and help clinicians improve pregnancy outcome. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Mass spectrometry imaging based on laser desorption ionization from inorganic and nanophotonic platforms
Authors: Samarah Laith Z. , Vertes Akos
Published: September 2020

Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) has become an important analytical tool for the label‐free chemical imaging of diverse molecules in biological specimens. This minireview surveys some emerging methods in the context of factors that can lead to inaccurate information in MSI, chemical and spatial aberrations, along with their common sources. Matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization, based on organic matrices, has become the most widely used MSI technique for biomolecules. However, due to inherent limitations associated with the use of organic matrices, for example, heterogeneous matrix‐analyte cocrystallization, and spectral interferences due to the matrix, laser desorption ionization (LDI) from inorganic and nanophotonic platforms has emerged as an alternative MSI modality with complementary advantages. In this review, inorganic and nanophotonic platforms for LDI‐MSI, their applications in imaging, notable merits, and limitations are described.
Dynamics from symmetries in chiral SU(N) gauge theories
Authors: Bolognesi Stefano , Konishi Kenichi , Luzio Andrea
Published: September 2020

Abstract

The symmetries and dynamics of simple chiral SU(N) gauge theories, with matter Weyl fermions in a two-index symmetric tensor and N + 4 anti-fundamental representations, are examined, by taking advantage of the recent developments involving the ideas of generalized symmetries, gauging of discrete center 1-form symmetries and mixed ’t Hooft anomalies. This class of models are particularly interesting because the conventional ’t Hooft anomaly matching constraints allow a chirally symmetric confining vacuum, with no condensates breaking the U(1) × SU(N + 4) flavor symmetry, and with certain set of massless baryonlike composite fermions saturating all the associated anomaly triangles. Our calculations show that in such a vacuum the UV-IR matching of some 0-form−1-form mixed ’t Hooft anomalies fails. This implies, for the theories with even N at least, that a chirally symmetric confining vacuum contemplated earlier in the literature actually cannot be realized dynamically. In contrast, a Higgs phase characterized by some gauge-noninvariant bifermion condensates passes our improved scrutiny.
Chiral perturbation theory for GR
Authors: Krasnov Kirill , Shtanov Yuri
Published: September 2020

Abstract

We describe a new perturbation theory for General Relativity, with the chiral first-order Einstein-Cartan action as the starting point. Our main result is a new gauge-fixing procedure that eliminates the connection-to-connection propagator. All other known first-order formalisms have this propagator non-zero, which significantly increases the combinatorial complexity of any perturbative calculation. In contrast, in the absence of the connection-to-connection propagator, our formalism leads to an effective description in which only the metric (or tetrad) propagates, there are only cubic and quartic vertices, but some vertex legs are special in that they cannot be connected by the propagator. The new formalism is the gravity analog of the well-known and powerful chiral description of Yang-Mills theory.
Boundary states for chiral symmetries in two dimensions
Authors: Smith Philip Boyle , Tong David
Published: September 2020

Abstract

We study boundary states for Dirac fermions in d = 1 + 1 dimensions that preserve Abelian chiral symmetries, meaning that the left- and right-moving fermions carry different charges. We derive simple expressions, in terms of the fermion charge assignments, for the boundary central charge and for the ground state degeneracy of the system when two different boundary conditions are imposed at either end of an interval. We show that all such boundary states fall into one of two classes, related to SPT phases supported by (−1)F , which are characterised by the existence of an unpaired Majorana zero mode.
Sequencing depth and genotype quality: accuracy and breeding operation considerations for genomic selection applications in autopolyploid crops
Authors: Gemenet Dorcus C. , Lindqvist-Kreuze Hannele , De Boeck Bert , da Silva Pereira Guilherme , Mollinari Marcelo , Zeng Zhao-Bang , Craig Yencho G. , Campos Hugo
Published: September 2020

Key message

Polypoid crop breeders can balance resources between density and sequencing depth, dosage information and fewer highly informative SNPs recommended, non-additive models and QTL advantages on prediction dependent on trait architecture.

The autopolyploid nature of potato and sweetpotato ensures a wide range of meiotic configurations and linkage phases leading to complex gene-action and pose problems in genotype data quality and genomic selection analyses. We used a 315-progeny biparentalF1population of hexaploid sweetpotato and a diversity panel of 380 tetraploid potato, genotyped using different platforms to answer the following questions: (i) do polyploid crop breeders need to invest more for additional sequencing depth? (ii) how many markers are required to make selection decisions? (iii) does considering non-additive genetic effects improve predictive ability (PA)? (iv) does considering dosage or quantitative trait loci (QTL) offer significant improvement to PA? Our results show that only a small number of highly informative single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs; ≤ 1000) are adequate for prediction in the type of populations we analyzed. We also show that considering dosage information and models considering only additive effects had the best PA for most traits, while the comparative advantage of considering non-additive genetic effects and including known QTL in the predictive model depended on trait architecture. We conclude that genomic selection can help accelerate the rate of genetic gains in potato and sweetpotato. However, application of genomic selection should be considered as part of optimizing the entire breeding program. Additionally, since the predictions in the current study are based on single populations, further studies on the effects of haplotype structure and inheritance on PA should be studied in actual multi-generation breeding populations.
Small sets in Mann pairs
Authors: Eleftheriou Pantelis E.
Published: September 2020

Let $$\widetilde{{\mathcal {M}}}=\langle {{{\mathcal {M}}}}, G\rangle $$

M
~

=

⟨
M
,
G
⟩

be an expansion of a real closed field $${{{\mathcal {M}}}}$$
M
by a dense subgroup G of $$\langle M^{>0}, \cdot \rangle $$

⟨

M

>
0

,
·
⟩

with the Mann property. We prove that the induced structure on G by $${{{\mathcal {M}}}}$$
M
eliminates imaginaries. As a consequence, every small set X definable in $${{{\mathcal {M}}}}$$
M
can be definably embedded into some $$G^l$$

G
l

, uniformly in parameters. These results are proved in a more general setting, where $$\widetilde{{\mathcal {M}}}=\langle {{{\mathcal {M}}}}, P\rangle $$

M
~

=

⟨
M
,
P
⟩

is an expansion of an o-minimal structure $${{\mathcal {M}}}$$
M
by a dense set $$P\subseteq M$$

P
⊆
M

, satisfying three tameness conditions.
Simulation of laser heating distribution for a thermoplastic composite: effects of AFP head parameters
Authors: Baho Omar , Ausias Gilles , Grohens Yves , Férec Julien
Published: September 2020

Laser-assisted automated fiber placement (AFP) is highly suitable for an efficient production of thermoplastic-matrix composite parts, especially for aeronautic/aerospace applications. Heat input by laser heating provides many advantages such as better temperature controls and uniform heating projections. However, this laser beam distribution can be affected by the AFP head system, mainly at the roller level. In this paper, a new optico-thermal model is established to evaluate the laser energy quantity absorbed by a poly(ether ether ketone) reinforced with carbon fibers (APC-2). During the simulation process, the illuminated radiative material properties are characterized and evaluated in terms of the roller deformation, the tilt of the robot head, and the reflection phenomenon between the substrate and the incoming tape. After computing the radiative source term using a ray-tracing method, these data are used to predict the temperature distribution on both heated surfaces of the composite during the process. The results show that both the roller deformation and the tilt of head make it possible to focus the laser beam on a small area, which considerably affects the quality of the finished part. These findings demonstrate that this optico-thermal model can be used to predict numerically the insufficient heating area and thermoplastic composites heating law.
Pre-emptive digitally guided pudendal block after posterior vaginal repair
Authors: Uustal Eva
Published: September 2020

Introduction and hypothesis

The aim of this study was to establish if digitally guided pre-emptive pudendal block (PDB) reduces postoperative pain and facilitates recovery after posterior vaginal repair under local anesthesia and sedation.

Methods

We carried out a prospective, randomized, double-blind trial in an outpatient surgery facility. Forty-one women between 18 and 70 years of age, scheduled for primary posterior vaginal reconstructive outpatient surgery, completed the study. The surgery was performed using sedation and local anesthesia with bupivacaine/adrenaline. At the end of surgery, 20 ml of either ropivacaine 7.5 mg/ml or sodium chloride (placebo) was administered as a digitally guided PDB. The primary aim was to establish if PDB with ropivacaine compared with placebo reduced the maximal pain as reported by visual analog scale (VAS) during the first 24 h after surgery. Secondary aims were to compare the duration and experience of the hospital stay, nausea, need for additional opioids, and adverse events.

Results

PDB with ropivacaine after local infiltration with bupivacaine/adrenaline after outpatient posterior repair did not significantly reduce maximal postoperative pain, need for hospital admittance, nausea, or opioid use. Mild transient sensory loss occurred after ropivacaine in two women. Two women the placebo group were unable to void owing to severe postoperative pain, which was resolved by a rescue PDB.

Conclusions

When bupivacaine/adrenaline is used for anesthesia in posterior vaginal repair, PDB with ropivacaine gives no benefit regarding postoperative pain, recovery or length of hospital stay. Rescue PDB can be useful for postoperative pain relief.
Minimal important difference and patient acceptable symptom state for PFDI-20 and POPDI-6 in POP surgery
Authors: Karjalainen Päivi K. , Mattsson Nina K. , Jalkanen Jyrki T. , Nieminen Kari , Tolppanen Anna-Maija
Published: September 2020

Introduction and hypothesis

Patient-reported outcome measures are fundamental tools when assessing effectiveness of treatments. The challenge lies in the interpretation: which magnitude of change in score is meaningful for the patients? The minimal important difference (MID) is defined as the smallest difference in score that patients perceive as important. The Patient Acceptable Symptom State (PASS) represents the value of score beyond which patients consider themselves well. We aimed to determine the MID and PASS for Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory-20 (PFDI-20) and Pelvic Organ Prolapse Distress Inventory-6 (POPDI-6) in pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery.

Methods

We used data from 2704 POP surgeries from a prospective, population-based cohort. MID was determined with three anchor-based and one distribution-based method. PASS was defined using two different methods. Medians of the estimates were identified.

Results

The MID estimates with (1) mean change, (2) receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve, (3) 75th percentile, and (4) distribution-based method varied between 22.9–25.0 (median 24.2) points for PFDI-20 and 9.0–12.5 (median 11.3) for POPDI-6. The PASS cutoffs with (1) 75th percentile and (2) ROC curve method varied between 57.7–62.5 (median 60.0) for PFDI-20 and 16.7–17.7 (median 17.2) for POPDI-6.

Conclusion

A mean difference of 24 points in the PFDI-20 or 11 points in the POPDI-6 can be used as a clinically relevant difference between groups. Postoperative scores ≤ 60 for PFDI-20 and ≤ 17 for POPDI-6 signify acceptable symptom state.
The role of microorganisms on biotransformation of brewers’ spent grain
Authors: Bianco Angela , Budroni Marilena , Zara Severino , Mannazzu Ilaria , Fancello Francesco , Zara Giacomo
Published: September 2020

Brewers’ spent grain (BSG) is the most abundant by-product of brewing. Due to its microbiological instability and high perishability, fresh BSG is currently disposed of as low-cost cattle feed. However, BSG is an appealing source of nutrients to obtain products with high added value through microbial-based transformation. As such, BSG could become a potential source of income for the brewery itself. While recent studies have covered the relevance of BSG chemical composition in detail, this review aims to underline the importance of microorganisms from the stabilization/contamination of fresh BSG to its biotechnological exploitation. Indeed, the evaluation of BSG-associated microorganisms, which include yeast, fungi, and bacteria, can allow their safe use and the best methods for their exploitation. This bibliographical examination is particularly focused on the role of microorganisms in BSG exploitation to (1) produce enzymes and metabolites of industrial interest, (2) supplement human and animal diets, and (3) improve soil fertility. Emerging safety issues in the use of BSG as a food and feed additive is also considered, particularly considering the presence of mycotoxins.

Key points

• Microorganisms are used to enhance brewers’ spent grain nutritional value.

• Knowledge of brewers’ spent grain microbiota allows the reduction of health risks.
Microbiome of root vegetables—a source of gluten-degrading bacteria
Authors: Kõiv Viia , Adamberg Kaarel , Adamberg Signe , Sumeri Ingrid , Kasvandik Sergo , Kisand Veljo , Maiväli Ülo , Tenson Tanel
Published: September 2020

Gluten is a cereal protein that is incompletely digested by human proteolytic enzymes that create immunogenic peptides that accumulate in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). Although both environmental and human bacteria have been shown to expedite gluten hydrolysis, gluten intolerance is a growing concern. Here we hypothesize that together with food, we acquire environmental bacteria that could impact our GIT with gluten-degrading bacteria. Using in vitro gastrointestinal simulation conditions, we evaluated the capacity of endophytic bacteria that inhabit root vegetables, potato (Solanum tuberosum), carrot (Daucus sativus), beet (Beta vulgaris), and topinambur (Jerusalem artichoke) (Helianthus tuberosus), to resist these conditions and degrade gluten. By 16S rDNA sequencing, we discovered that bacteria from the families Enterobacteriaceae, Bacillaceae, and Clostridiaceae most effectively multiply in conditions similar to the human GIT (microoxic conditions, 37 °C) while utilizing vegetable material and gluten as nutrients. Additionally, we used stomach simulation (1 h, pH 3) and intestinal simulation (1 h, bile salts 0.4%) treatments. The bacteria that survived this treatment retained the ability to degrade gluten epitopes but at lower levels. Four bacterial strains belonging to species Bacillus pumilus, Clostridium subterminale, and Clostridium sporogenes isolated from vegetable roots produced proteases with postproline cleaving activity that successfully neutralized the toxic immunogenic epitopes.

Key points

• Bacteria from root vegetables can degrade gluten.

• Some of these bacteria can resist conditions mimicking gastrointestinal tract.
Immersives verteiltes Robotic Co-working
Authors: Seiger Ronny , Aßmann Uwe , Grzelak Dominik , Belov Mikhail , Riedel Paul , Podlubne Ariel , Zhao Wanqi , Kerber Jens , Mohr Jonas , Espinosa Fabio , Schwartz Tim
Published: September 2020

Im zukünftigen taktilen Internet wachsen die physische und virtuelle Welt auch über mehrere Standorte hinweg immer weiter zusammen. Robotic Co-working – das gemeinsame Kollaborieren von Robotern und Menschen – gewinnt dabei zunehmend im Kontext des Internet der Dinge (IoT) und cyber-physischer Systeme (CPS) an Bedeutung. Mit dieser Arbeit präsentieren wir eine Fallstudie, die anlässlich des 50-jährigen Jubiläums des Informatikstudiums in Deutschland durchgeführt wurde. In dieser arbeiten Menschen und Roboter über mehrere Standorte verteilt in einer virtuellen Co-Working-Zelle zusammen, um einen „physischen und virtuellen Informatik-Deutschland-Campus 2069“ zu konstruieren. Unter Nutzung von Sensorik, Aktuatorik und Software wird der cyber-physische Campus, von einem Workflow gesteuert, schrittweise errichtet. Mithilfe einer Mixed-Reality-Anwendung kann dieser Prozess immersiv, d. h. eintauchbar und interaktiv, unabhängig von einem konkreten Standort erlebt werden.
Persistence on biologic DMARD monotherapy after achieving rheumatoid arthritis disease control on combination therapy: retrospective analysis of corrona registry data
Authors: Pappas Dimitrios A. , Litman Heather J. , Lesperance Tamara , Kricorian Greg , Karis Elaine , Rebello Sabrina , Hua Winnie , Accortt Neil A. , Stryker Scott
Published: September 2020

Biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) monotherapy may enhance adherence and decrease adverse events compared to combination therapy with conventional synthetic DMARDs (csDMARDs); however, persistence with bDMARD monotherapy has not been extensively studied. We explore persistence of etanercept monotherapy and monotherapy with other tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFis) among patients first achieving remission/low disease activity (LDA) while on combination therapy with csDMARDs and a TNFi. Using Corrona registry data, the percentage of patients persistent with the index TNFi (etanercept versus other TNFis) over 6 and 12 months was determined. Factors influencing persistence and treatment patterns at 6 and 12 months were examined. Among 617 eligible patients, 56% of 182 patients on etanercept and 45% of 435 patients on other TNFis persisted with monotherapy at 6 months, 46% and 33%, respectively, at 12 months. Across first-line and subsequent biologic DMARDs, etanercept persistence was greater than other TNFi persistence by 10.8% (95% CI 2.1%, 19.6%) at 6 months and 11.4% (95% CI 0.9%, 21.9%) at 12 months. Patients on other TNFis were more likely to require reintroduction of csDMARD after 6 months (45% versus 35% for etanercept). Remission was the key predictor of persistence for both etanercept and other TNFi monotherapies. This retrospective, cohort study of registry data reflecting real-world practice indicates patients who achieve remission/LDA with combination csDMARD and TNFi therapy may successfully transition to TNFi monotherapy. Patients on etanercept monotherapy experienced greater persistence and less frequent reintroduction of a csDMARD than was observed for patients on other TNFi monotherapies.
Patient preferences for development in MRI scanner design: a survey of claustrophobic patients in a randomized study
Authors: Iwan Elisa , Yang Jinhua , Enders Judith , Napp Adriane Elisabeth , Rief Matthias , Dewey Marc
Published: September 2020

Objective

To investigate which magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner designs claustrophobic patients prefer.

Material/methods

We analyzed questionnaires completed by 160 patients at high risk for claustrophobia directly after a scan in either a short-bore or open panoramic scanner as part of a prospective randomized trial Enders et al (BMC Med Imaging 11:4, 2011). Scanner preferences were judged based on schematic drawings of four scanners. Information on the diagnostic performance of the depicted scanners was provided, too.

Results

A majority of patients suggested upright open (59/160, 36.9%) and open panoramic (53/160, 33.1%) before short-bore designs (26/160, 16.3%, for all p < 0.001) for future development. When asked about patients’ preferred scanner choice for an upcoming examination, information about a better diagnostic performance of a short-bore scanner significantly improved its preference rates (from 6/160 to 49/160 or 3.8 to 30.5%, p < 0.001). Patients with a claustrophobic event preferred open designs significantly more often than patients without a claustrophobic event (p = 0.047). Patients scanned in a short-bore scanner in our trial preferred this design significantly more often (p = 0.003). Noise reduction (51/160, 31.9%), more space over the head (44/160, 27.5%), and overall more space (33/160, 20.6%) were the commonest suggested areas of improvement.

Conclusion

Patients at high risk for claustrophobia visually prefer open- over short-bore MRI designs for further development. Education about a better diagnostic performance of a visually less-attractive scanner can increase its acceptance. Noise and space were of most concern for claustrophobic patients. This information can guide individual referral of claustrophobic patients to scanners and future scanner development.

Key Points

• Patients at high risk for claustrophobia visually favor the further development of open scanners as opposed to short- and closed-bore scanner designs.

• Educating claustrophobic patients about a higher diagnostic performance of a short-bore scanner can significantly increase their acceptance of this otherwise visually less-attractive design.

• A medical history of earlier claustrophobic events in a given MRI scanner type and focusing on the features “more space” and “noise reduction” can help to guide referral of patients who are at high risk for claustrophobia.
C9orf72 loss-of-function: a trivial, stand-alone or additive mechanism in C9 ALS/FTD?
Authors: Braems Elke , Swinnen Bart , Van Den Bosch Ludo
Published: September 2020

A repeat expansion in C9orf72 is responsible for the characteristic neurodegeneration in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) in a still unresolved manner. Proposed mechanisms involve gain-of-functions, comprising RNA and protein toxicity, and loss-of-function of the C9orf72 gene. Their exact contribution is still inconclusive and reports regarding loss-of-function are rather inconsistent. Here, we review the function of the C9orf72 protein and its relevance in disease. We explore the potential link between reduced C9orf72 levels and disease phenotypes in postmortem, in vitro, and in vivo models. Moreover, the significance of loss-of-function in other non-coding repeat expansion diseases is used to clarify its contribution in C9orf72 ALS/FTD. In conclusion, with evidence pointing to a multiple-hit model, loss-of-function on itself seems to be insufficient to cause neurodegeneration in C9orf72 ALS/FTD.
Different time course of compensation of subjective visual vertical and ocular torsion after acute unilateral vestibular lesion
Authors: Faralli Mario , Ricci Giampietro , Manzari Leonardo , Zambonini Giulia , Lapenna Ruggero , Pettorossi Vito Enrico
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Time course of the recovery of otolithic dis-function caused by superior vestibular neuritis has been examined in fifteen patients.

Methods

The subjective visual vertical (SVV) and the ocular cyclotorsion (OT) have been measured four times after the acute episode up to 1 year

Results

In most of the patients the SVV tilt returned to control values within few months (3–6 months) after the acute episode, while OT remained out of normal range in almost all patients a year later.

Conclusion

The abnormal OT observed after 1 year from the acute episode of vestibular neuritis, suggests that the otolithic receptors remained altered for several months and the OT may be a good indicator of the entity of the residual peripheral otolithic lesion. Moreover, the dissociation between the SVV tilt recovery and that of OT supports the issue that the two signs of the otolithic disfunction are only partially linked each other with centrally or peripherally distinct re-balancing circuits.
Parkinson’s disease laterality: a 11C-PE2I PET imaging study
Authors: Roussakis Andreas-Antonios , Zeng Zhou , Lao-Kaim Nicholas P. , Martin-Bastida Antonio , Piccini Paola ,   TRANSEURO consortium, Barker Roger A. , Farrell Krista , Guzman Natalie Valle , He Xiaoling , Lazic Stanley E. , Moore Sarah , Morris Robert , Tyers Pamela , Wijeyekoon Ruwani , Daft Danielle , Hewitt Sam , Dayal Biswas , Foltynie Thomas , Kefalopoulou Zenobia , Mahlknecht Philipp , Bjartmarz Hjalmar , Björklund Anders , Lindvall Olle , Nelander-Wahlestedt Jenny , Parmar Malin , Paul Gesine , Widner Hakan , Church Alistair , Dunnett Stephen , Peall Kathryn , Rosser Anne , Gurruchaga Jean Marc , Palfi Stéphane , Piroth Tobias , Winkler Christian
Published: September 2020

Asymmetry of striatal dopaminergic deficits and motor symptoms is a typical characteristic of idiopathic Parkinson’s disease (PD). This study aims to characterise the trend of asymmetry in moderate-stage PD. We performed a 19-month longitudinal study in 27 patients with PET-CT imaging and appropriate clinical assessments. 11C-PE2I non-displaceable binding potential (BPND) was calculated bilaterally for the striatum at baseline and follow-up to estimate the in vivo density of striatal dopamine transporters (DAT). Changes in striatal 11C-PE2I BPND over time were more prominent in the ipsilateral as compared to contralateral side. Changes in MDS-UPDRS-III (motor component of the Movement Disorders Society Unified PD Rating Scale) were not different between the clinically most and least affected body sides. Our data support that the asymmetry in striatal dopaminergic degeneration becomes less prominent in moderate-stage PD. In contrast, during the above period, the asymmetry of motor symptoms was maintained between the clinically most and least affected body sides.
Work-related exposure to organic solvents and the risk for multiple sclerosis—a systematic review
Authors: Gerhardsson Lars , Hou Linda , Pettersson Kjell
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic progressive neurological disorder. Several environmental factors have been discussed as possible causing agents, e.g. organic solvents, whose impact on the disease is analysed in this review.

Methods

Systematic search strategies were used to identify high-quality studies of workers exposed to organic solvents, published up to September 30, 2019, in databases, such as PubMed, Cochrane library and Scopus. The exposure was in most studies obtained by questionnaires, supplemented with telephone interviews. The diagnosis MS was mainly detemined following a thorough neurological examination. Finally, fourteen case–control studies and two cohort studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. Random effects models were used to pool the results of the studies.

Results

The odds ratios from the 14 case–control studies included in the meta-analysis ranged from 0.12–4.0. Five case–control studies and one cohort study showed a significant association between the development of multiple sclerosis and exposure to organic solvents. The results from the other nine case–control studies and from one of the two cohort studies did not reach statistical significance. The pooled data from the 14 case–control studies gave an OR of 1.44 (95% CI 1.03–1.99), which shows a moderately increased risk of developing MS after exposure to organic solvents.

Conclusions

The final interpretation of the result is that organic solvents may be slightly associated with an increased risk to develop MS. In addition, other factors, e.g. genetic markers and smoking, may contribute to the development of the disease.