bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supplementation with Cynanchum wilfordii radix extract for 8 weeks lowers serum total cholesterol: A controlled, randomized, double‐blind clinical trial
Authors: Shin Seon Mi , Cho Young Mi , Kwon Jeong Eun , Lee Sung Ryul , Kang Se Chan
Published: April 2020

This trial aimed to determine the effect of a standardized Cynanchum wilfordii Radix extract (CWE) on the lipid profiles of individuals with elevated total cholesterol (T‐Chol) using a double‐blind randomized placebo‐controlled design. Ninety‐six Korean individuals with elevated T‐Chol level (200–240 mg/dL) were recruited and randomly allocated to groups that received VasH300 (300 mg CWE/day, n = 32), VasH600 (600 mg CWE/day, n = 32), or a placebo (n = 32) groups. Primary outcomes included T‐Chol, low‐density lipoprotein (LDL)‐cholesterol, high‐density lipoprotein (HDL)‐cholesterol, triglyceride, and safety (adverse events, biochemical parameters, and hematological parameters). Data were compared using a one‐way analysis of variance followed by Duncan's post‐hoc tests (among groups) and paired t tests (within groups). Values for T‐Chol and LDL‐cholesterol were significantly reduced in the VasH300 and groups (VasH300: 4.0 and 6.4%, respectively; VasH600; 3.8 and 5.8% respectively; both p < .05) compared with the placebo group and were not dose‐dependent. VasH300 significantly improved the lipid profiles of individuals with elevated T‐Chol without any serious side effects. Daily supplementation with VasH might be an alternative strategy with which to modify cholesterol‐related parameters, especially in individuals with elevated T‐Chol levels.
Quantifying large‐scale ecosystem stability with remote sensing data
Authors: White Hannah J. , Gaul Willson , Sadykova Dinara , León‐Sánchez Lupe , Caplat Paul , Emmerson Mark C. , Yearsley Jon M.
Published: April 2020

To fully understand ecosystem functioning under global change, we need to be able to measure the stability of ecosystem functioning at multiple spatial scales. Although a number of stability components have been established at small spatial scales, there has been little progress in scaling these measures up to the landscape. Remote sensing data holds huge potential for studying processes at landscape scales but requires quantitative measures that are comparable from experimental field data to satellite remote sensing. Here we present a methodology to extract four components of ecosystem functioning stability from satellite‐derived time series of Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) data. The four stability components are as follows: variability, resistance, recovery time and recovery rate in ecosystem functioning. We apply our method to the island of Ireland to demonstrate the use of remotely sensed data to identify large disturbance events in productivity. Our method uses stability measures that have been established at the field‐plot scale to quantify the stability of ecosystem functioning. This makes our method consistent with previous small‐scale stability research, whilst dealing with the unique challenges of using remotely sensed data including noise. We encourage the use of remotely‐sensed data in assessing the stability of ecosystems at a scale that is relevant to conservation and management practices.
Electronic Modulation of Nickel Disulfide toward Efficient Water Electrolysis
Authors: Dinh Khang Ngoc , Sun Yongxiu , Pei Zengxia , Yuan Ziwen , Suwardi Ady , Huang Qianwei , Liao Xiaozhou , Wang Zhiguo , Chen Yuan , Yan Qingyu
Published: April 2020

Developing highly efficient earth‐abundant nickel‐based compounds is an important step to realize hydrogen generation from water. Herein, the electronic modulation of the semiconducting NiS2 by cation doping for advanced water electrolysis is reported. Both theoretical calculations and temperature‐dependent resistivity measurements indicate the semiconductor‐to‐conductor transition of NiS2 after Cu incorporation. Further calculations also suggest the advantages of Cu dopant to cathodic water electrolysis by bringing Gibbs free energy of H adsorption at both Ni sites and S sites much closer to zero. It is noteworthy that water dissociation on Cu‐doped NiS2 (Cu‐NiS2) surface is even more favorable than those on NiS2 and Pt(111). Thus, the prepared Cu‐NiS2 shows noticeably improved performance toward alkaline hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions (HER and OER). Specifically, it requires merely 232 mV OER overpotential to drive 10 mA cm−2; in parallel with Tafel slopes of 46 mV dec−1. Regarding HER, an onset overpotential of only 68 mV is achieved. When integrated as both electrodes for water electrolysis, Cu‐NiS2 needs only 1.64 V to drive 10 mA cm−2, surpassing the state‐of‐the‐art Ir/C–Pt/C couple (1.71 V). This work opens up an avenue to engineer low‐cost and earth‐abundant catalysts performing on par with the noble‐metal‐based one for water splitting.
Over 15.7% Efficiency of Ternary Organic Solar Cells by Employing Two Compatible Acceptors with Similar LUMO Levels
Authors: Hu Zhenghao , Yang Linqiang , Gao Wei , Gao Jinhua , Xu Chunyu , Zhang Xiaoli , Wang Zhi , Tang Weihua , Yang Chuluo , Zhang Fujun
Published: April 2020

Efficient organic solar cells (OSCs) are fabricated using polymer PM6 as donor, and IPTBO‐4Cl and MF1 as acceptors. The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of IPTBO‐4Cl based and MF1 based binary OSCs individually arrive to 14.94% and 12.07%, exhibiting markedly different short circuit current density (JSC) of 23.18 mA cm−2 versus 17.01 mA cm−2, fill factor (FF) of 72.17% versus 78.18% and similar open circuit voltage (VOC) of 0.893 V versus 0.908 V. The two acceptors, IPTBO‐4Cl and MF1, have similar lowest unoccupied molecular orbital levels, which is beneficial for efficient electron transport in the ternary active layer. The PCE of optimized ternary OSCs arrives to 15.74% by incorporating 30 wt% MF1 in acceptors, resulting from the simultaneously increased JSC of 23.20 mA cm−2, VOC of 0.897 V, and FF of 75.64% in comparison with IPTBO‐4Cl based binary OSCs. The gradually increased FFs of ternary OSCs indicate the well‐optimized phase separation and molecular arrangement with MF1 as morphology regulator. This work may provide a new viewpoint for selecting an appropriate third component to achieve efficient ternary OSCs from materials and photovoltaic parameters of two binary OSCs.
A semantic and social‐based collaborative recommendation of friends in social networks
Authors: Berkani Lamia
Published: April 2020

The development of social media technologies has greatly enhanced social interactions. The proliferation of social platforms has generated massive amounts of data and a considerable number of persons join these platforms every day. Therefore, one of the current issues is to facilitate the search for the most appropriate friends for a given user. We focus in this article on the recommendation of users in social networks. We propose a novel approach which combines a user‐based collaborative filtering (CF) algorithm with semantic and social recommendations. The semantic dimension suggests the close friends based on the calculation of the similarity between the active user and his friends. The social dimension is based on some social‐behavior metrics such as friendship and credibility degree. The novelty of our approach concerns the modeling of the credibility of the user, through his/her trust and commitment in the social network. A social recommender system based on this approach is developed and experiments have been conducted using the Yelp social network. The evaluation results demonstrated that the proposed hybrid approach improves the accuracy of the recommendation compared with the user‐based CF algorithm and solves the sparsity and cold start problems.
Probabilistic structural analysis of São João Bridge based on the on‐site study of the time‐dependent behavior of concrete
Authors: Santos Luis O. , Xu Min , Virtuoso Francisco
Published: April 2020

This article aims to present a procedure to take into account the variability of the time‐dependent behavior of concrete on its structural effects, evaluated from the study of creep and shrinkage based on experimental data obtained on‐site. For this purpose, the São João Bridge, a railway bridge built in Porto, Portugal in 1991, is presented as a case study. São João Bridge is a railway bridge crossing the river Douro. It is a prestressed concrete structure, with a total length of 1,028 m, including the main span of 250 m, two side spans of 125 m, six approaching spans on the left river bank, and three approaching spans on the right river bank (Porto). During bridge construction, a comprehensive structural health monitoring (SHM) system was set up, as well as an on‐site study of time‐dependent behavior of concrete. This study was based on creep 15 specimens and 15 shrinkage specimens, prepared simultaneously with some segments of the deck, using the same material, and it was kept running during almost 20 years. The results of this study were treated statistically and used as random variables in a probabilistic analysis of the time‐dependent behavior of the bridge. After a brief description of the mentioned on‐site study and the bridge SHM system, the paper presents the procedure followed on the bridge numerical probabilistic analysis. Finally, the values computed by the numerical model are presented and compared with the experimental values provided by the SHM.
Sulfuric acid resistance of alkali/slag activated silico‐manganese fume‐based mortars
Authors: Nasir Muhammad , Megat Johari Megat Azmi , Maslehuddin Mohammed , Yusuf Moruf Olalekan
Published: April 2020

The resistance of alkaline‐activated silico‐manganese fume (SMF) and blast furnace slag (BSF)‐based mortar, prepared by varying BFS and NaOHaq composition, during 20 weeks of exposure to 5% sulfuric acid (H2SO4aq) of initial pH = 0.24 and pure water (controlled) was studied. The deterioration was monitored by visual, alkalinity, mass, compressive strength and microstructural tests. The set of specimens synthesized included: (a) BFS‐free high alkaline, (b) SMF‐BFS blended high alkaline, and (c) SMF‐BFS blended mild alkaline system. Their residual strengths after 20 weeks of acid exposure were 20.1, 18.6, and 16%, respectively. BFS‐free specimens exhibited high resistance to acid attack due to the dearth of Ca in SMF. BFS‐admixed mild alkali system resulted formation of more gypsum and dealumination attributed to incomplete dissolution of Ca grains leading to severe spalling. BFS‐admixed high alkaline system underwent moderate resistance due to dense microstructure formed by additional C‐S‐H, K‐A‐S‐H, and C‐Mn‐H gel which enhanced retention of the polymerized framework.
The paradox of opposite directions of gene expressions in MCI and AD suggests possible therapy to prevent progression of MCI to AD
Authors: Fessel Jeffrey
Published: April 2020

One of the puzzling observations concerning mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer's disease (AD), is that many gene expressions in MCI may be in the opposite direction of those seen in AD. Several examples of this paradox are provided. The likely explanation lies in in the control mechanisms of gene transcription. These mechanisms include (1) modification of DNA and histones by methylation or acetylation, affecting the balance between the Compass group of proteins that enhances mRNA formation, and the Polycomb group that suppresses it; (2) compensation for the loss of one gene's function by another gene with overlapping functions; (3) reduced control of the entire neural RNA production; and (4) response to microRNAs (miRNA). Although data are inadequate to exclude with certainty any one of the indicated mechanisms, the available evidence favors overall reduced control of neural mRNA production, including the effect of miRNA. The switch occurs at a specific stage, somewhere between Braak 0‐1 and Braak 2‐3, in the progression from MCI to AD, which reduces the number of its likely causes. Two strong but related candidates are the repressor element‐1 silencing transcription factor (REST), which in adult neurons impairs plasticity; and a miRNA, for example, miRNA124, that represses REST. Another possible explanation is that only those patients with MCI who will not progress to AD are the ones that have gene expressions in the opposite direction as in AD. The solution to the paradox may have pragmatic value.
In silico toxicology: From structure–activity relationships towards deep learning and adverse outcome pathways
Authors: Hemmerich Jennifer , Ecker Gerhard F.
Published: April 2020

In silico toxicology is an emerging field. It gains increasing importance as research is aiming to decrease the use of animal experiments as suggested in the 3R principles by Russell and Burch. In silico toxicology is a means to identify hazards of compounds before synthesis, and thus in very early stages of drug development. For chemical industries, as well as regulatory agencies it can aid in gap‐filling and guide risk minimization strategies. Techniques such as structural alerts, read‐across, quantitative structure–activity relationship, machine learning, and deep learning allow to use in silico toxicology in many cases, some even when data is scarce. Especially the concept of adverse outcome pathways puts all techniques into a broader context and can elucidate predictions by mechanistic insights.

This article is categorized under:

Structure and Mechanism > Computational Biochemistry and Biophysics

Data Science > Chemoinformatics
Effects of inflow turbulence intensity and turbine arrangements on the power generation efficiency of large wind farms
Authors: Wu Yu‐Ting , Lin Chuan‐Yao , Chang Tsang‐Jung
Published: April 2020

In this study, we conduct a series of large‐eddy simulations (LESs) to study the impact of different incoming turbulent boundary layer flows over large wind farms, with a particular focus on the overall efficiency of electricity production and the evolution of the turbine wake structure. Five representative turbine placements in the large wind farm are considered, including an aligned layout and four staggered layouts with lateral or vertical offset arrangements. Four incoming flow conditions are used and arranged from the LESs of the ABL flow over homogeneous flat surfaces with four different aerodynamic roughness lengths (i.e., z0 = 0.5, 0.1, 0.01, and 0.0001 m), where the hub‐height turbulence intensity levels are about 11.1%, 8.9%, 6.8%, and 4.9%, respectively. The simulation results indicate that an enhancement in the inflow turbulence level can effectively increase the power generation efficiency in the large wind farms, with about 23.3% increment on the overall farm power production and up to about 32.0% increment on the downstream turbine power production. Under the same inflow condition, the change of the turbine‐array layouts can increase power outputs within the first 10 turbine rows, which has a maximum increment of about 26.5% under the inflow condition with low turbulence. By comparison, the increase of the inflow turbulence intensity facilitates faster wake recovery that raises the power generation efficiency of large wind farms than the adjustment of the turbine placing layouts.
Homöopathie: Heilslehre „ohne Substanz“
Authors: Schmacke Norbert
Published: April 2020

Die Homöopathie gehört in Deutschland zu den häufig angewendeten alternativen Heilmethoden. In diesem Diskussionsbeitrag soll erörtert und analysiert werden, warum die Homöopathie nicht zur Medizin gehören sollte und vielmehr als Glaubenskonzept zu verstehen ist, das außerhalb wissenschaftlicher Methoden angesiedelt ist. Erläutert werden die klinischen, rechtlichen und politischen Dimensionen der Homöopathiedebatte. Schließlich wird die Frage der Legitimität von Placeboanwendungen im Lichte der Forderung nach patientenzentrierter Medizin diskutiert.
Termite resistance of pine wood treated with nano metal fluorides
Authors: Usmani Shirin M. , Plarre Rudy , Hübert Thomas , Kemnitz Erhard
Published: April 2020

Fluorides are well-known as wood preservatives. One of the limitations of fluoride-based wood preservatives is their high leachability. Alternative to current fluoride salts such as NaF used in wood protection are low water-soluble fluorides. However, impregnation of low water-soluble fluorides into wood poses a challenge. To address this challenge, low water-soluble fluorides like calcium fluoride (CaF2) and magnesium fluoride (MgF2) were synthesized as nanoparticles via the fluorolytic sol−gel synthesis and then impregnated into wood specimens. In this study, the toxicity of nano metal fluorides was assessed by termite mortality, mass loss and visual analysis of treated specimens after eight weeks of exposure to termites, Coptotermes formosanus. Nano metal fluorides with sol concentrations of 0.5 M and higher were found to be effective against termites resulting in 100% termite mortality and significantly inhibited termite feeding. Among the formulations tested, the least damage was found for specimens treated with combinations of CaF2 and MgF2 with an average mass loss less than 1% and visual rating of “1”. These results demonstrate the efficacy of low water-soluble nano metal fluorides to protect wood from termite attack.
Influence of malt modification and the corresponding macromolecular profile on palate fullness in cereal-based beverages
Authors: Krebs Georg , Becker Thomas , Gastl Martina
Published: April 2020

The sensory attribute palate fullness of cereal-based beverages was shown to be affected by polymeric compounds and their macromolecular profile. During malting, the enzymatic degradation of polymers is technologically controlled by the malting parameters, namely the degree of steeping, germination time, and germination temperature. The macromolecular profile of a fermented cereal-based beverage consists of non-fermentable substance classes. Therefore, the macromolecular composition of a final beverage is originally dominated by the raw material, if conventional production methods are used. We investigated the influence of different cytolytic and proteolytic malt modifications on the macromolecular profile of lactic acid-fermented cereal-based beverages (a strain was selected that did not produce exopolysaccharides) and their resultant effect on the sensory perception of the attributes of palate fullness and mouthfeel. Asymmetrical-flow field-flow fractionation coupled with multi-angle light-scattering detection and refractive index detection is an analytical tool for macromolecular characterization to indicate differences in the macromolecular profile, molar mass, and molar mass distribution. The beverages produced using different modified malts demonstrated a considerable variation in their final composition, particularly in the composition of their macromolecular compounds. A higher level of malt modification led to a decrease in the high-molar-mass fraction and a consequent shift toward fractions with a lower molar mass. Malts produced from barley with increased crude protein contents resulted in a greater range within the macromolecular profile. The variation of germination time significantly influenced the number average molar mass, the total refractive index detection (dRI) peak area, and the high-molar-mass fraction, which contained cell wall polysaccharides (60–1200 kDa). The perception of the intensity of palate fullness was significantly correlated with specific macromolecular fractions, which were influenced by the malting parameter degree of steeping and the resultant modification. The perception of the mouthfeel descriptor watery varied significantly for different crude protein contents. Our results are beneficial for a targeted design of beverage composition based on the macromolecular profile by an improved selection of raw materials and malting technology.
The Role of the Depressor Nasi Septi Muscle in Nasal Air Flow
Authors: Seyed Resuli Ali , Oktem Fatih , Ataus Sureyya
Published: April 2020

Background

Musculus depressor septi nasi and its tendon, the dermocartilaginous ligament, play an important role in external nasal valve and nasal respiration. If the ligament is cut during septorhinoplasty operations, nasal functions of the nose and facial expressions are affected. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the role of M. depressor septi nasi in nasal respiration at open rhinoplasty operations using rhinomanometry and electromyography.

Methods

The study included 29 patients who had only external nasal deformity (nasal hump deformity). All patients underwent open rhinoplasty. The dermocartilaginous ligament of the patients in the study group (DCL + group) was repaired but not in the control group (DCL − group). Rhinomanometry and electromyography were applied to all patients preoperatively and postoperatively.

Results

In the DCL − group, right and left nasal airflow values were significantly lower in post-op (562.92 cm3/s and 548.57 cm3/s), whereas right, left, and total nasal resistances were significantly lower in pre-op (0.28 Pa/cm3/s, 0.22 Pa/cm3/s, and 0.11 Pa/cm3/s). Statistically significant differences were not found between rhinomanometric measurements in pre-op and post-op values of the DCL + group. Post-op right, left and mean values of M. depressor septi nasi amplitude in the DCL + group (2.05 mV, 2.0 mV, 2.02 mV) were significantly higher than those in the DCL − group (1.52 mV, 1.61 mV, 1.57 mV).

Conclusion

Repair of the dermocartilaginous ligament during open rhinoplasty operations enhances nasal respiratory functions by expanding the external nasal valve through M. depressor septi nasi and allows the nose to participate in mimic movements.

Level of Evidence IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.
An Update on Foley Catheter Balloon Tamponade for Penetrating Neck Injuries
Authors: Scriba Matthias , McPherson Deidre , Edu Sorin , Nicol Andrew , Navsaria Pradeep
Published: April 2020

Background

Foley catheter balloon tamponade (FCBT) for bleeding penetrating neck injuries (PNIs) is effective. This study aims to audit the technique and outcomes of FCBT.

Methods

Adult patients with PNIs requiring FCBT presenting to Groote Schuur Hospital (GSH) within a 22‐month study period were prospectively captured on an approved electronic registry. Retrospective analysis included demographics, major injuries, investigations, management and outcomes.

Results

During the study period, 628 patients with PNI were treated at GSH. In 95 patients (15.2%), FCBT was utilised. The majority were men (98%) with an average age of 27.9 years. Most injuries were caused by stab wounds (90.5%). The majority of catheters (81.1%) were inserted prior to arrival at GSH. Computerised tomographic angiography (CTA) was done in 92.6% of patients, while eight patients (8.4%) required catheter‐directed angiography. Six were performed for interventional endovascular management. Thirty‐four arterial injuries were identified in 29 patients. Ongoing bleeding was noted in three patients, equating to a 97% success rate for haemorrhage control. Thirteen (13.7%) patients required neck exploration. Seventy‐two (75.8%) patients without major arterial injury had removal of the catheter at 48–72 h. Two of these bled on catheter removal. A total of 36 complications were documented in 28 patients (29.5%). There was one death due to uncontrolled haemorrhage from the neck wound.

Conclusion

This large series highlights the ease of use of FCBT with high rates of success at haemorrhage control (97%). Venous injuries and minor arterial injuries are definitively managed with this technique.
Simultaneous optical measurement of temperature and velocity fields in solidifying liquids
Authors: Anders S. , Noto D. , Tasaka Y. , Eckert S.
Published: April 2020

We introduce a complex image processing scheme for the simultaneous application of liquid crystal thermometry (LCT), in addition to the previously established method in Anders et al. (Exp Fluids 60(4):68, 2019. 10.1007/s00348-019-2703-8) for particle tracking velocimetry and particle image velocimetry. This scheme was developed for an experimental study on the double-diffusive convection in an aqueous ammonium chloride solution NH4Cl(aq) during crystallization. The use of thermochromic liquid crystals (TLC) enables to visualize the flow and temperature field simultaneously. We present a color interpolation method that enhances the accuracy of the LCT by yielding RGB images only representative of the TLC’s coloration. An artificial neural network (ANN) which processes RGB triplets and spatial color dependencies transforms these images into temperature fields. The combination of the ANN system and a corresponding calibration procedure enhances the accuracy and measurable temperature range of the LCT compared to state-of-the-art procedures. By using the here established measurement scheme, quantitative global studies of the mutual influence between solidification and convection are enabled and exemplary results are presented.

Graphic abstract
Caffeine content in newborn hair correlates with maternal dietary intake
Authors: Lehtonen Anni , Uusitalo Lauri , Auriola Seppo , Backman Katri , Heinonen Seppo , Keski-Nisula Leea , Pasanen Markku , Pekkanen Juha , Tuomainen Tomi-Pekka , Voutilainen Raimo , Hantunen Sari , Lehtonen Marko
Published: April 2020

Purpose

High-maternal caffeine intake during pregnancy may be harmful for perinatal outcomes and future child health, but the level of fetal cumulative exposure has been difficult to measure thus far. Here, we present maternal dietary caffeine intake during the last trimester and its correlation to caffeine content in newborn hair after birth.

Methods

Maternal third trimester diets and dietary caffeine intake were prospectively collected in Kuopio Birth Cohort (KuBiCo) using a 160-item food frequency questionnaire (n = 2840). Newborn hair was collected within 48 h after birth and analyzed by high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) for caffeine (n = 316). Correlation between dietary caffeine intake and neonatal hair caffeine content was evaluated from 203 mother–child pairs.

Results

Mean dietary caffeine intake was 167 mg/days (95% CI 162–172  mg/days), of which coffee comprised 81%. Caffeine in the maternal diet and caffeine content in newborn hair correlated significantly (r = 0.50; p < 0.001). Older, multiparous, overweight women, and smokers had the highest caffeine levels in the maternal diet, as well as in their newborn babies’ hair.

Conclusion

Caffeine exposure, estimated from newborn hair samples, reflects maternal third trimester dietary caffeine intake and introduces a new method to assess fetal cumulative caffeine exposure. Further studies to evaluate the effects of caffeine exposure on both perinatal and postnatal outcomes are warranted, since over 40% of pregnant women consume caffeine more than the current suggested recommendations (European Food Safety Association, EFSA recommendations).
Rationale of combination of anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibody therapy and radiotherapy for cancer treatment
Authors: Sato Hiro , Okonogi Noriyuki , Nakano Takashi
Published: April 2020

Significant technological advances in radiotherapy have been made in the past few decades. High-precision radiotherapy has recently become popular and is contributing to improvements in the local control of the irradiated target lesions and the reduction of adverse effects. Accordingly, for long-term survival, the importance of systemic cancer control, including at non-irradiated sites, is growing. Toward this challenge, the treatment methods in which anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies that exert systemic effects by restoring anti-tumour immunity are combined with radiotherapy has attracted attention in recent years. Previous studies have reported the activation of anti-tumour immunity by radiotherapy, which simultaneously elevates PD-L1 expression, suggesting a potential for combination therapy. Radiotherapy induces so-called ‘immunogenic cell death’, which involves cell surface translocation of calreticulin and extracellular release of high-mobility group protein box 1 (HMGB-1) and adenosine-5′-triphosphate (ATP). Furthermore, radiotherapy causes immune activation via MHC class I upregulation and cGAS–STING pathway. In contrast, induction of immunosuppressive lymphocytes and the release of immunosuppressive cytokines and chemokines by radiotherapy contribute to immunosuppressive reactions. In this article, we review immune responses induced by radiotherapy as well as previous reports to support the rationale of combination of radiotherapy and anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies. A number of preclinical and clinical studies have shown the efficacy of radiotherapy combined with immune checkpoint inhibition, hence combination therapy is considered to be an important future strategy for cancer treatment.
Carbon Supported Phosphoric Acid Catalysts for Gas-Phase Synthesis of Diesel Additives
Authors: Grünert Anna , Schmidt Wolfgang , Schüth Ferdi
Published: April 2020

Carbon supported phosphoric acid (H3PO4/C) was found to be a more productive catalyst for the gas-phase synthesis of the diesel fuel additive/substitute oxymethylene ethers (OME) as compared to benchmark zeolite catalysts. In this contribution, the performance of catalysts H3PO4/C and related H2PO4−/C and HPO42−/C materials in OME synthesis from methanol and formaldehyde is described.

Graphic Abstract
The Great Recession and Fertility in Europe: A Sub-national Analysis
Authors: Matysiak Anna , Sobotka Tomáš , Vignoli Daniele
Published: April 2020

This study investigates how the changes in labour market conditions and economic growth were associated with fertility before and during theGreat Recessionin Europe in 2002–2014. In contrast to previous studies, which largely concentrated at the country level, we use data for 251 European regions in 28 European Union (EU) member states prior to the withdrawal of the United Kingdom in January 2020. We apply three-level growth-curve model which allows for a great deal of flexibility in modelling temporal change while controlling for variation in economic conditions across regions and countries. Our findings show that fertility decline was strongly related to unemployment increase; this relationship was significant at different reproductive ages. Deteriorating economic conditions were associated with a stronger decline in fertility during the economic recession as compared with the pre-recession period. This evidence suggests the salience of factors such as broader perception of uncertainty that we could not capture in our models and which rose to prominence during the Great Recession. Furthermore, strongest fertility declines were observed in Southern Europe, Ireland and parts of Central and Eastern Europe, i.e. countries and regions where labour market conditions deteriorated most during the recession period. In Western Europe, and especially in the Nordic countries, fertility rates were not closely associated with the recession indicators.
Experiencing objectified health: turning the body into an object of attention
Authors: de Boer Bas
Published: April 2020

In current phenomenology of medicine, health is often understood as a state of transparency in which our body refrains from being an object of explicit attention. In this paper, I argue that such an understanding of health unnecessarily presupposes an overly harmonious alignment between subjective and objective body, resulting in the idea that our health remains phenomenologically inaccessible. Alternatively, I suggest that there are many occasions in which one’s body in health does become an object of attention, and that technologies mediate how a relation with one’s body is formed. First, I show prominent accounts in current phenomenology of medicine understand health in terms of a harmonious alignment between objective and subjective body. Second, I argue that there are many occasions in which there is a disharmony between objective and subjective body, and suggest that also in health, we cannot escape being an object that we often relate to. Then, I draw on postphenomenology to show how technologies such as digital self-tracking applications and digital twins can be understood as mediating the relationship with one’s own body in a specific way. In conclusion, I argue that both technologies make present the objective body as a site for hermeneutic inquiry such that it can be interacted with in terms of health parameters. Furthermore, I point to some relevant differences in how different technologies make aspects of our own body phenomenologically present.
Effects of the Dating Matters® Comprehensive Prevention Model on Health- and Delinquency-Related Risk Behaviors in Middle School Youth: a Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Estefan Lianne Fuino , Vivolo-Kantor Alana M. , Niolon Phyllis Holditch , Le Vi D. , Tracy Allison J. , Little Todd D. , DeGue Sarah , Latzman Natasha E. , Tharp Andra , Lang Kyle M. , McIntosh Wendy LiKamWa
Published: April 2020

Teen dating violence (TDV) is associated with a variety of delinquent behaviors, such as theft, and health- and delinquency-related risk behaviors, including alcohol use, substance abuse, and weapon carrying. These behaviors may co-occur due to shared risk factors. Thus, comprehensive TDV-focused prevention programs may also impact these other risk behaviors. This study examined the effectiveness of CDC’s Dating Matters®: Strategies to Promote Healthy Teen Relationships (Dating Matters) comprehensive TDV prevention model compared to a standard-of-care condition on health- and delinquency-related risk behaviors among middle school students. Students (N = 3301; 53% female; 50% black, non-Hispanic; and 31% Hispanic) in 46 middle schools in four sites across the USA were surveyed twice yearly in 6th, 7th, and 8th grades. A structural equation modeling framework with multiple imputation to account for missing data was utilized. On average over time, students receiving Dating Matters scored 9% lower on a measure of weapon carrying, 9% lower on a measure of alcohol and substance abuse, and 8% lower on a measure of delinquency by the end of middle school than students receiving an evidence-based standard-of-care TDV prevention program. Dating Matters demonstrated protective effects for most groups of students through the end of middle school. These results suggest that this comprehensive model is successful at preventing risk behaviors associated with TDV. clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01672541
Presumptuous or pluralistic presumptions of innocence? Methodological diagnosis towards conceptual reinvigoration
Authors: Roberts Paul
Published: April 2020

This article is a contribution to interdisciplinary scholarship addressing the presumption of innocence, especially interdisciplinary conversations between philosophers and jurists. Terminological confusion and methodological traps and errors notoriously beset academic literature addressing the presumption of innocence and related concepts, such as evidentiary presumptions, and the burden and standard of proof in criminal trials. This article is diagnostic, in the sense that its primary objective is to highlight the assumptions—in particular, thedisciplinaryassumptions—implicit in influential contributions to debates on the presumption of innocence. It advocates a methodologically pluralistic approach, according to which definitions of the presumption of innocence are necessarily sensitive to purpose and method. These relationships and their implications are not always appreciated, and are seldom explicitly elucidated. Notably, philosophers (and some legal scholars) routinely treat the presumption of innocence as (in some sense) epistemic, evidentiary or otherwise featuring directly in practical reasoning. This article identifies jurisprudential and practical reasons why legal scholars and practitioners (and possibly others) concerned with criminal procedure and evidence should reject evidentiary interpretations of the presumption of innocence. By encouraging finer-grained engagement with the history and institutional details of common law procedural traditions, the article aims to show why legal scholars might think that philosophical approaches to the presumption of innocence are already methodologically-loaded and, for our purposes, address the wrong questions with deficient concepts.
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency in Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Radlinger Bernhard , Ramoser Gabriele , Kaser Susanne
Published: April 2020

Purpose of Review

Type 1 and type 2 diabetes are often accompanied by mostly mild forms of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Despite high prevalence, little is known about the clinical consequences of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency and its optimal (nutritional) treatment. Even less is known if and to what extent exocrine pancreas insufficiency also affects glycemic control in diabetes. This article aims for summarizing current clinical knowledge on screening, diagnosis, and treatment and gives an overview on the pathophysiology of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency in diabetes.

Recent Findings

Recent studies reveal novel insights into the close interaction of acinar, ductal, and endocrine cells and the gut-pancreas axis.

Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency is a clinically relevant, frequent but poorly understood disorder in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Early Famennian bryozoan fauna from the Baqer-abad section, northeast Isfahan, central Iran
Authors: Ernst Andrej , Bahrami Ali , Parast Ayesheh
Published: April 2020

A bryozoan fauna from the Upper Devonian (lower Famennian) of the Bahram Formation of the Baqer-abad section in central Iran contains four species: three trepostomes and one rhabdomesine cryptostome. Two trepostome species and one genus are new: Anomalotoechus parvus sp. nov. and Zefrehopora asynithis gen. nov. et sp. nov. The trepostome Coeloclemis zefrehensis Ernst et al., 2017 and the rhabdomesine cryptostome Euthyrhombopora tenuis Ernst et al., 2017 were recorded previously from the Upper Devonian (Frasnian) of the Bahram Formation at the Zefreh section. The fauna is dominated by the erect ramose Euthyrhombopora tenuis, accompanied by relatively frequent Zefrehopora asynithis, which developed both the erect and encrusting colonies. The bryozoans indicate low to moderate water energy environment in a middle to outer ramp position. Low diversity and high abundance of one species indicate an environmental stress apparently caused by strong sediment deposition. No significant differences in the composition of the bryozoan assemblages of the Frasnian and lower Famennian of the Bahram Formation were observed mirroring global patterns.
Different experiences of two PRRT2-associated self-limited familial infantile epilepsy
Authors: Zhao Qianlei , Liu Zhenwei , Hu Ying , Fang Shiyu , Zheng Feixia , Li Xiucui , Li Feng , Lin Zhongdong
Published: April 2020

To analyze the clinical characteristics and PRRT2 gene mutation of self-limited familial infantile epilepsy and evaluate the treatment responses of different antiepileptic drugs in self-limited familial infantile epilepsy. We reviewed the clinical feature and genetic mutation results and treatment responses of two sibling sisters. They were detected with the PRRT2 gene mutation through Sanger sequencing. Elder sister was treated with oxcarbazepine oral suspension, while younger sister was treated with levetiracetam oral solution. The two sibling sisters exhibited PRRT2 heterozygous mutation inherited from their mother in c.649dupC p.(Arg217fs). Oxcarbazepine oral suspension had an immediate effect on the elder sister who was treated with it. However, levetiracetam oral solution had no effect on younger sister even though the dose was increased, but she got seizure-free after turning to oxcarbazepine oral suspension. Oxcarbazepine, which plays the mechanism of the sodium channel blockers, has a more significant effect than levetiracetam, which has no mechanism of the sodium channel blockers in self-limited familial infantile epilepsy. The PRRT2 gene of infantile epileptic patients with a family history of infantile convulsions or paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia(PKD) could be detected by sanger sequencing and a biomarker to select antiepileptic drugs which play the mechanism of the sodium channel blockers could be utilized.
Extended Conceptual Metaphor Theory
Authors: Kövecses Zoltán
Published: April 2020

The phenomenon known as metaphor is an extremely complex mental event - we cannot capture its complexity if we tie ourselves to existing standard views on metaphor. This book offers fresh insight into metaphor, updating an established theory, conceptual metaphor theory (CMT), in the context of current cognitive linguistic theory, and clarifying many of the issues that researchers in the study of metaphor have raised against conceptual metaphor theory. Starting with an introduction to CMT, the subsequent chapters set out propositions for Extended Conceptual Metaphor Theory, including a discussion on whether literal language exists at all, whether conceptual metaphors are both conceptual and contextual, and whether they are both offline and online. Providing a fresh take on a constantly developing field, this study will enrich the work of researchers in areas ranging from metaphorical cognition to literary studies.
How Is COVID-19 Affecting South Korea? What Is Our Current Strategy?
Authors: Her Minyoung
Published: April 2020

The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by the virus SARS-CoV-2 is expanding globally. South Korea is one of the countries most affected by COVID-19 from the very early stages of this pandemic. Explosive outbreaks occurred across South Korea in the first two months, and efforts to control this new virus have involved everyone across the country. To curb the transmission of the virus, health-care professionals, committees, and governments have combined many approaches, such as extensive COVID-19 screening, effective patient triage, the transparent provision of information, and the use of information technology. This experience could provide some valuable ideas and lessons to others who are fighting against COVID-19.
The Effects of Cultural Values on Bank Failures around the World
Authors: Berger Allen N. , Li Xinming , Morris Charles S. , Roman Raluca A.
Published: April 2020

We conduct the first broad-based international study on bank-level failures covering 92 countries over 2000–2014, investigating national cultural variables as failure determinants. We find individualism and masculinity are positively associated with bank failure, but they operate through different channels. Managers in individualist countries assume more portfolio risk, while governments in masculine countries allow banks to operate with less liquidity and less often bail out troubled institutions. Findings are robust to accounting for endogeneity, different techniques and measures, and additional controls. Results have implications for prudential policies, including regulation, supervision, and bailout strategies, that may partially mitigate some negative effects of culture.
Magnetic resonance imaging of Ménière's disease: early clinical experience in a UK centre
Authors: Pai I , Mendis S , Murdin L , Touska P , Connor S
Published: April 2020

Background

Recent developments in magnetic resonance imaging have enabled demonstration of endolymphatic hydrops, and the clinical application of these imaging studies in Ménière's disease is being explored.

Objective

To evaluate our centre's experience to date of hydrops magnetic resonance imaging in patients with episodic vertigo.

Methods

Magnetic resonance imaging was performed using a high-resolution three-dimensional fluid-attenuated inversion recovery sequence on a 3 Tesla scanner at 4 hours following double-dose gadolinium administration.

Results

The study included 31 patients, 28 of whom had a clinical diagnosis of Ménière's disease. In unilateral Ménière's disease, magnetic resonance imaging was able to lateralise endolymphatic hydrops to the clinically symptomatic ear in all cases. Mild hydrops was often seen in clinically asymptomatic ears.

Conclusion

There is a good correlation between the clinical symptoms and lateralisation of hydropic changes on magnetic resonance imaging. Further refinements of imaging techniques and grading system will likely improve the diagnostic accuracy and clinical utilisation of hydrops magnetic resonance imaging.
Learning to assign stress in a second language: The role of second-language vocabulary size and transfer from the native language in second-language readers of Italian
Authors: Spinelli Giacomo , Forti Luciana , Jared Debra
Published: April 2020

Learning to pronounce a written word implies assigning a stress pattern to that word. This task can present a challenge for speakers of languages like Italian, in which stress information must often be computed from distributional properties of the language, especially for individuals learning Italian as a second language (L2). Here, we aimed to characterize the processes underlying the development of stress assignment in native English and native Chinese speakers learning L2 Italian. Both types of bilinguals produced evidence supporting a role of vocabulary size in modulating the type of distributional information used in stress assignment, with an early bias for Italian's dominant stress pattern being gradually replaced by use of associations between orthographic sequences and stress patterns in more advanced bilinguals. We also obtained some evidence for a transfer of stress assignment habits from the bilinguals’ native language to Italian, although only in English native speakers.
The relevance of whole grain food definitions in estimation of whole grain intake: a secondary analysis of the National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey 2011–2012
Authors: Kissock Katrina R , Neale Elizabeth P , Beck Eleanor J
Published: April 2020

Objective:

To determine the impacts of using a whole grain food definition on measurement of whole grain intake compared with calculation of total grams of intake irrespective of the source.

Design:

The Australian whole grain database was expanded to identify foods that comply with the Healthgrain whole grain food definition (≥30 % whole grains on a dry weight basis, whole grain ingredients exceeds refined grain and meeting accepted standards for healthy foods based on local regulations). Secondary analysis of the National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey (NNPAS) 2011–2012 dietary intake data included calculation of whole grain intakes based on intake from foods complying with the Healthgrain definition. These were compared with intake values where grams of whole grain in any food had been included.

Setting:

Australia.

Participants:

Australians (≥2 years) who participated in the NNPAS 2011–2012 (n12 153).

Results:

Following expansion of the whole grain database, 214 of the 609 foods containing any amount of whole grain were compliant with the Healthgrain definition. Significant mean differences (allP< 0·05) of 2·84–6·25 g/d of whole grain intake (5·91–9·44 g/d energy adjusted) were found when applying the Healthgrain definition in comparison with values from foods containing any whole grain across all age groups.

Conclusions:

Application of a whole grain food definition has substantial impact on calculations of population whole grain intakes. While use of such definitions may prove beneficial in settings such as whole grain promotion, the underestimation of total intake may impact on identification of any associations between whole grain intake and health outcomes.