bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnosis ofHelicobacter pyloriinfection in the elderly using an immunochromatographic assay‐based stool antigen test
Authors: Han Yingjie , Dai Wei , Meng Fansen , Gan Xueyang , Liu Miao , Deng Xinli , Li Yuan , Wang Gangshi
Published: July 2020

The diagnostic value ofHelicobacter pyloristool antigen (HpSA) tests in elderly subjects remains unclear. The objective of this study was to assess the diagnostic accuracy of the immunochromatographic assay‐based HpSA test in a male elderly cohort and identify factors affecting the accuracy. Data for asymptomatic elderly male citizens (≥65 years old) who received health checkups at the Chinese PLA General Hospital between July 2007 and November 2018 were collected. The diagnostic accuracy of the HpSA test was determined using the13C‐urea breath test as a reference standard. Associations between baseline comorbidities and the accuracy of the HpSA test were analyzed. In total, 316 participants were enrolled, including 193 in the pre‐treatment group (77.2 ± 7.8 years old) and 123 in the post‐treatment group (78.7 ± 8.3 years old). The accuracy (91.5%, 91.2%, and 91.9%) and specificity (97.6%, 98.7%, and 96.0%) were high in all participants, pre‐ and post‐treatment groups, respectively. However, sensitivities were only 68.7%, 65.1%, and 75.0%, respectively. In the pre‐treatment group, constipation was associated with decreased sensitivity (p = 0.039), while colorectal polyps were associated with increased sensitivity (p = 0.010). Multivariate analysis indicated that constipation and colorectal polyps are independent factors for the sensitivity of HpSA in the pre‐treatment group. The immunochromatographic assay‐based HpSA test achieved high accuracy with high specificity but suboptimal sensitivity in the elderly male cohort. Constipation and colorectal polyps were negatively and positively associated with HpSA sensitivity, respectively, in the pre‐treatment group.
Diabetes Causes Dysfunctional Dopamine Neurotransmission Favoring Nigrostriatal Degeneration in Mice
Authors: Pérez‐Taboada Iara , Alberquilla Samuel , Martín Eduardo D. , Anand Rishi , Vietti‐Michelina Stefania , Tebeka Nchimunya N. , Cantley James , Cragg Stephanie J. , Moratalla Rosario , Vallejo Mario
Published: July 2020

Background

Numerous studies indicate an association between neurodegenerative and metabolic diseases. Although still a matter of debate, growing evidence from epidemiological and animal studies indicate that preexisting diabetes increases the risk to develop Parkinson's disease. However, the mechanisms of such an association are unknown.

Objectives

We investigated whether diabetes alters striatal dopamine neurotransmission and assessed the vulnerability of nigrostriatal neurons to neurodegeneration.

Methods

We used streptozotocin‐treated and genetically diabetic db/db mice. Expression of oxidative stress and nigrostriatal neuronal markers and levels of dopamine and its metabolites were monitored. Dopamine release and uptake were assessed using fast‐scan cyclic voltammetry. 6‐Hydroxydopamine was unilaterally injected into the striatum using stereotaxic surgery. Motor performance was scored using specific tests.

Results

Diabetes resulted in oxidative stress and decreased levels of dopamine and its metabolites in the striatum. Levels of proteins regulating dopamine release and uptake, including the dopamine transporter, the Girk2 potassium channel, the vesicular monoamine transporter 2, and the presynaptic vesicle protein synaptobrevin‐2, were decreased in diabetic mice. Electrically evoked levels of extracellular dopamine in the striatum were enhanced, and altered dopamine uptake was observed. Striatal microinjections of a subthreshold dose of the neurotoxin 6‐hydroxydopamine in diabetic mice, insufficient to cause motor alterations in nondiabetic animals, resulted in motor impairment, higher loss of striatal dopaminergic axons, and decreased neuronal cell bodies in the substantia nigra.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that diabetes promotes striatal oxidative stress, alters dopamine neurotransmission, and increases vulnerability to neurodegenerative damage leading to motor impairment. © 2020 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Hermite‐Hadamard‐type inequalities for interval‐valued coordinated convex functions involving generalized fractional integrals
Authors: Kara Hasan , Ali Muhammad Aamir , Budak Hüseyin
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we define interval‐valued left‐sided and right‐sided generalized fractional double integrals. We establish inequalities of Hermite‐Hadamard like for coordinated interval‐valued convex functions by applying our newly defined integrals.
A three‐dimensional Hoek–Brown failure criterion based on an elliptical Lode dependence
Authors: Jiang Hua , Yang Yang
Published: July 2020

A new three‐dimensional (3D) Hoek–Brown (HB) failure criterion based on an elliptical Lode dependence is proposed to describe failure of rocks and concrete under multiaxial stress states. This criterion not only inherits all benefits of the classical HB criterion that is developed for the triaxial compression (TXC) of rocks but also accounts for the effect of the intermediate principal stress. It is capable of representing the strength difference between the triaxial extension (TXE) and TXC with the introduction of an additional coefficient k (0.5 ≤ k ≤ 1.0), which can be derived from TXE tests or taken as 0.53 for rocks in cases where the TXE test data is unavailable. Other two material constants (mi and σci) involved in this criterion can be obtained from TXC tests. Additionally, the failure surface of this criterion is smooth and convex on the deviatoric stress plane when 0.5 < k ≤ 1.0. The new criterion achieves very good fit to the test data of TXC/TXE, biaxial compression, and polyaxial compression (PXC) on a wide variety of rock materials and concrete, reported in the literature. Comparison of the new criterion with an existing 3D HB criterion based on the same Lode dependence has demonstrated that the new criterion performs better than the latter for test data of rock and concrete under multiaxial stress states except for PXC test data of one rock type. Finally, the influence of values of k on the accuracy of the new criterion is discussed.
Testing interobserver and intraobserver agreement of the original and revised Coimbra Methods
Authors: Jorgensen Kelsey C. , Mallon Laura , Kranioti Elena F.
Published: July 2020

In 2009, the Coimbra Method was created to standardize observations of entheseal changes, which are often studied as markers of vigorous physical activity formed during life. Low percentage agreement rates of interobserver replicability led to a revised version of the Coimbra Method published in 2016. Robust statistical significance should be expected of a standardized method, yet neither published method statistically tested interobserver and intraobserver agreement. This paper tests reliability of both Coimbra Method versions using Cohen's Kappa and percentage of agreement for comparison with the originally published rates. This paper also marks the first test of reliability for the Coimbra Method that is independent of the original authors. Fibrocartilaginous entheses of the humerus, radius and scapula were observed on 82 individuals from Scottish and Cretan collections. Results ranged from high intraobserver agreement (86.9% to 91.8%) to lower interobserver agreement (70.5% to 76.7%) for both methods. Interobserver agreement only slightly improved between the original (71.8%) and revised (75.2%) Coimbra Methods. Results for Kappa ranged from substantial for intraobserver agreement (k = 0.70) but only moderate for interobserver agreement (k = 0.57) for both methods. Either 80% or ‘substantial’ kappa agreement is considered the minimum for a standardized method, and these results indicate that interobserver agreement from even the revised Coimbra Method is still too low. Future tests and revisions are recommended to further explore the possibility of the Coimbra Method as a standard.
P(DADMAAC‐co‐DMAA): Synthesis, thermal stability, and kinetics
Authors: Ayatzhan Akhmetzhan , Tashenov Ayezkhan , Nurgeldi Abeu , Zhanar Ospanova , Zhexenbek Toktarbay , Kaldibek Abdiyev , Nuraje Nurxat
Published: July 2020

The kinetics of copolymerization is one of the key factors for optimization the process in large scale of production. Copolymerization of N, N‐dimethyl‐N,N‐diallyammonium chloride (DMDAAC) with N,N‐dimethyl acrylamide (DMAA) was studied by a dilatometer technique using ammonium persulfate ([NH4]2S2O8) as an initiator. The effect of the parameters (including molar ratio of DMDAAC to DMAA, concentrations of monomers [M] and initiator [I], and the temperature) on the polymerization rate was analyzed. From these analyses it was found that the polymerization rate (Rp) with the above variables can be represented as the following relationship: Rp∝ [M]2.63; Rp∝ [I]0.40 andRp∝[MDMDAAC:MDMAA]‐0,86.The negative order found in the relationship of the reaction rate and the monomer composition indicated that the DMDAAC concentration in the monomers composition conversely affected the polymerization rate. The overall activation energy for the polymerization rate was 39.56 kJ/mol in the temperature range between 40°C and 60°C. Based on the experimental results, the mechanism of polymerization is discussed in detail. Different thermal properties for DMDAAC and DMDAAC‐DMAA were observed by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermogravimetry (TG) analysis. Addition of DMAA to DMDAAC lowered the thermal stability relative to the home polymer of DMDAAC.
Therapeutic potential of alkaloids in autoimmune diseases: Promising candidates for clinical trials
Authors: Khan Haroon , Ullah Hammad , Khattak Sumaira , Aschner Michael , Aguilar Cristobal N. , Halimi Syed M. A. , Cauli Omar , Shah Syed M. M.
Published: July 2020

Clinical investigations have characterized numerous disorders like autoimmune diseases, affecting the population at a rate of approximately 8–10%. These disorders are characterized by T‐cell and auto‐antibodies responses to self‐molecules by immune system reactivity. Several therapeutic options have been adopted in clinics to combat such diseases, however, most of them are recurring. Thus, the discovery of new effective agents for the treatment of autoimmune diseases is paramount. In this context, natural products might be a useful alternative to the current therapies. Plant alkaloids with their substantial therapeutic history can be particularly interesting candidates for the alleviation of autoimmune ailments. This review encompasses various alkaloids with significant effects against autoimmune diseases in preclinical trials. These results suggest further clinical assessment with respect to autoimmune illnesses. Furthermore, the application of modern technologies such as nanoformulation could be also helpful in the design of more effective therapies and thus further studies are needed to decipher their therapeutic efficacy as well as potential limitations.
On the stability and convergence rate analysis for the nonlinear uncertain systems based upon active disturbance rejection control
Authors: Wang Yongshuai , Liu Junjie , Chen Zengqiang , Sun Mingwei , Sun Qinglin
Published: July 2020

Emerging as an effective control method, active disturbance rejection control technique (ADRC) can well deal with disturbances and uncertainties. Then focusing on the general nonlinear uncertain systems, this article illustrates the relation among stability, uncertainties, and parameters of linear ADRC controller when perturbation occurs in control input. On the one hand, if the reference and uncertainties satisfy particular conditions, the estimation and output errors are proved to be ultimately and globally bounded by Lyapunov function and Gronwall‐Bellman inequality, together with rigorous mathematical deducing and simulation verification. On the other hand, a globally and asymptotically stable result is obtained applying Lyapunov method and Cauchy inequality, and the convergence rate can be estimated when uncertainties exist. Besides, numerical simulations are carried out to fully display the correctness and dependability of results and proofs.
Synthesis and in vitro characterization of the genotoxic, mutagenic and cell-transforming potential of nitrosylated heme
Authors: Kostka Tina , Fohrer Jörg , Guigas Claudia , Briviba Karlis , Seiwert Nina , Fahrer Jörg , Steinberg Pablo , Empl Michael T.
Published: July 2020

Data from epidemiological studies suggest that consumption of red and processed meat is a factor contributing to colorectal carcinogenesis. Red meat contains high amounts of heme, which in turn can be converted to its nitrosylated form, NO-heme, when adding nitrite-containing curing salt to meat. NO-heme might contribute to colorectal cancer formation by causing gene mutations and could thereby be responsible for the association of (processed) red meat consumption with intestinal cancer. Up to now, neither in vitro nor in vivo studies characterizing the mutagenic and cell transforming potential of NO-heme have been published due to the fact that the pure compound is not readily available. Therefore, in the present study, an already existing synthesis protocol was modified to yield, for the first time, purified NO-heme. Thereafter, newly synthesized NO-heme was chemically characterized and used in various in vitro approaches at dietary concentrations to determine whether it can lead to DNA damage and malignant cell transformation. While NO-heme led to a significant dose-dependent increase in the number of DNA strand breaks in the comet assay and was mutagenic in the HPRT assay, this compound tested negative in the Ames test and failed to induce malignant cell transformation in the BALB/c 3T3 cell transformation assay. Interestingly, the non-nitrosylated heme control showed similar effects, but was additionally able to induce malignant transformation in BALB/c 3T3 murine fibroblasts. Taken together, these results suggest that it is the heme molecule rather than the NO moiety which is involved in driving red meat-associated carcinogenesis.
Outcomes of elective head and neck confirmed or suspected cancer surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Brar Sabrina , Ofo Enyi , Hyde Nicholas , Kim Dae , Odutoye Tunde , Allin David , Rovira Aleix
Published: July 2020

Purpose

To analyse the complication outcomes of COVID-19 negative patients undergoing elective head and neck surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

This was a retrospective case review of all patients undergoing elective head and neck surgery for confirmed or suspected head and neck cancer.

Results

There were no mortalities recorded in the cohort of patients analysed. At 30 days, pulmonary complications had occurred in 4 patients (9%). None of these were related to COVID infection.

Conclusion

With careful pre-operative screening of patients for COVID-19 and post-operative care in a COVID-19 clean ward, head and neck surgery can proceed safely during the epidemic. This data could help to minimise delay in treatment by allowing a greater number of elective head and neck cancer operations to proceed.
Cochlear implants in adults with partial deafness: subjective benefits but associated psychological distress
Authors: Kobosko Joanna , Jedrzejczak W. Wiktor , Barej Anna , Pankowska Agnieszka , Geremek-Samsonowicz Anna , Skarzynski Henryk
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The present study investigated adults with partial deafness (PD) and asked them to rate the benefits of their cochlear implant (CI), their general level of satisfaction with it, and their level of psychological distress. Of particular interest was the role of gender.

Methods

The study comprised 71 participants (41 females) with PD who had been provided with a CI. The Nijmegen Cochlear Implant Questionnaire (NCIQ) was used to assess the benefits of their CI. Satisfaction with their CI was measured using a visual analog scale. The severity of mental distress was assessed with the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28).

Results

On various NCIQ scales, the average benefits of a CI were rated at 66%. Females gave a lower rating than males. The mental distress experienced by the group was significantly higher than in the general population. Females had more severe symptoms of anxiety and insomnia than males. There was a significant relationship between psychological distress and CI benefit, but only in females. Besides general distress, the most affected spheres were related to psychosocial functioning—“self-esteem”, “activity limitation”, and “social interaction”. Contrary to expectations, there was no relationship between mental distress and CI satisfaction.

Conclusions

The perceived benefits of a CI in subjects with PD relate mostly to the level of mental distress, although gender is an important factor. For females, their emotional state affects how beneficial their CI is perceived. Due to the higher levels of mental distress, females tend to need more psychological intervention and support.
Effects of low temperature on photoinhibition and singlet oxygen production in four natural accessions of Arabidopsis
Authors: Mattila Heta , Mishra Kumud B. , Kuusisto Iiris , Mishra Anamika , Novotná Kateřina , Šebela David , Tyystjärvi Esa
Published: July 2020

Main conclusions

Low temperature decreases PSII damage in vivo, confirming earlier in vitro results. Susceptibility to photoinhibition differs among Arabidopsis accessions and moderately decreases after 2-week cold-treatment. Flavonols may alleviate photoinhibition.

The rate of light-induced inactivation of photosystem II (PSII) at 22 and 4 °C was measured from natural accessions ofArabidopsis thaliana(Rschew, Tenela, Columbia-0, Coimbra) grown under optimal conditions (21 °C), and at 4 °C from plants shifted to 4 °C for 2 weeks. Measurements were done in the absence and presence of lincomycin (to block repair). PSII activity was assayed with the chlorophyllafluorescence parameterFv/Fmand with light-saturated rate of oxygen evolution using a quinone acceptor. When grown at 21 °C, Rschew was the most tolerant to photoinhibition and Coimbra the least. Damage to PSII, judged from fitting the decrease in oxygen evolution orFv/Fmto a first-order equation, proceeded more slowly or equally at 4 than at 22 °C. The 2-week cold-treatment decreased photoinhibition at 4 °C consistently in Columbia-0 and Coimbra, whereas in Rschew and Tenela the results depended on the method used to assay photoinhibition. The rate of singlet oxygen production by isolated thylakoid membranes, measured with histidine, stayed the same or slightly decreased with decreasing temperature. On the other hand, measurements of singlet oxygen from leaves with Singlet Oxygen Sensor Green suggest that in vivo more singlet oxygen is produced at 4 °C. Under high light, the PSII electron acceptorQAwas more reduced at 4 than at 22 °C. Singlet oxygen production, in vitro or in vivo, did not decrease due to the cold-treatment. Epidermal flavonols increased during the cold-treatment and, in Columbia-0 and Coimbra, the amount correlated with photoinhibition tolerance.
From Shadow IT to Business-managed IT: a qualitative comparative analysis to determine configurations for successful management of IT by business entities
Authors: Kopper Andreas , Westner Markus , Strahringer Susanne
Published: July 2020

Shadow IT describes covert/hidden IT systems that are managed by business entities themselves. Additionally, there are also overt forms in practice, so-called Business-managed IT, which share most of the characteristics of Shadow IT. To better understand this phenomenon, we interviewed 29 executive IT managers about positive and negative cases of Shadow IT and Business-managed IT. By applying qualitative comparative analysis (QCA), we derived four conditions that characterize these cases: Aligned, local, simple, and volatile. The results show that there are three sufficient configurations of conditions that lead to a positive outcome; one of them even encompasses Shadow IT. The most important solution indicates that IT systems managed by business entities are viewed as being positive if they are aligned with the IT department and limited to local requirements. This allows to balance local responsiveness to changing requirements and global standardization. In contrast, IT systems that are not aligned and permanent (and either organization-wide or simple) are consistently considered as negative. Our study is the first empirical quantitative–qualitative study to shed light on the success and failure of Shadow IT and Business-managed IT.
Impact of vaccination policy on changes in rubella virus antibody in Japanese pregnant women
Authors: Hanaoka M. , Yamaguchi K. , Yamaguchi S.
Published: July 2020

Aim

As a result of the 2012–2013 rubella epidemics in Japan, many cases of congenital rubella syndrome have been reported. Given the frequent changes to rubella vaccination policy in Japan, we investigated antibody prevalence among pregnant women according to birth year.

Subjects and methods

Participants comprised 55,400 pregnant Japanese women for whom rubella-specific hemagglutination inhibition antibody had been measured during early pregnancy in our institute from 1987 to 2016. Birth year was considered for the 47,978 cases for which age was known.

Results

The ratio of rubella antibody-negative cases among pregnant women born after 1962 decreased significantly with mandatory vaccination. In the transition phase, during which the administration target was changed from schoolgirls to children of both sexes (born 1979–1987) as temporary vaccination, the ratio of rubella antibody-negative pregnant women started increasing in the latter period of this phase. For generations born in or after 1988, the ratio of rubella antibody-negative pregnant women clearly increased when the vaccination target changed to non-mandatory vaccination of children of both sexes.

Conclusions

Prevalence of antibody titers depends on vaccine coverage rates. Suitable information needs to be provided prior to conception to all women, their husbands, and family members.
Defining the baseline for river restoration: comparing carabid beetle diversity of natural and human-impacted riparian habitats
Authors: Sprößig Claudia , Buchholz Sascha , Dziock Frank
Published: July 2020

Near-natural rivers and riparian ecosystems can represent biodiversity hotspots harbouring many highly specialised, rare and endangered species. During the past centuries, these habitats have been heavily degraded by anthropogenic use, and therefore river restoration is one of the most striking fields of action that is legally defined by the European Union Water Framework Directive. Successful restoration depends on realistic and specified targets that should be defined beforehand and founded on status quo surveys. We present a comparison of carabid beetle communities in riparian habitats of natural and managed river sites of the Mulde River in the Biosphere Reserve Middle Elbe. This endeavour is part of a unique multi-level revitalisation project. Pitfall trapping in 2016 and 2017 yielded 111 carabid species with many species of conservation concern in natural and managed habitats. However, Simpson diversity and functional diversity were lower in the latter. Both habitats harboured specific species assemblages with characteristic indicator species. Additionally, the trap location on slip-off slopes or cut banks was a significant driver of species composition. Our results indicate high ecological development potentials for the Mulde River, but restoration should consider differences between slip-off slopes and cut-off banks. We postulate that future restoration will foster population increases as well as a wider distribution of rare and endangered riparian habitat specialists.
Relational Operant Skills Training Increases Standardized Matrices Scores in Adolescents: A Stratified Active-Controlled Trial
Authors: McLoughlin Shane , Tyndall Ian , Pereira Antonina
Published: July 2020

In recent years, small-scale studies have suggested that we may be able to substantially strengthen children's general cognitive abilities and intelligence quotient (IQ) scores using a relational operant skills training program (SMART). Only one of these studies to date has included an active Control Condition, and that study reported the smallest mean IQ rise. The present study is a larger stratified active-controlled trial to independently test the utility of SMART training for raising Non-verbal IQ (NVIQ) and processing speed. We measured personality traits, NVIQs, and processing speeds of a cohort of school pupils (aged 12–15). Participants were allocated to either a SMART intervention group or a Scratch computer coding control group, for a period of 3 months. We reassessed pupils’ NVIQs and processing speeds after the 3-month intervention. We observed a significant mean increase in the SMART training group’s (finalnexp = 43) NVIQs of 5.98 points, while there was a nonsignificant increase of 1.85 points in the Scratch active-control group (finalncont = 27). We also observed an increase in processing speed across both conditions (finalnexp = 70;ncont = 55) over Time. Our results suggest that relational skills training may be useful for improving performance on matrices tasks, and perhaps in future, accelerating children’s progression toward developmental milestones.
Designing digital technology tasks for the development of functional thinking
Authors: Günster Stephan Michael , Weigand Hans-Georg
Published: July 2020

In this paper we introduce a theoretical framework concerned with fostering functional thinking in Grade 8 students by utilizing digital technologies. This framework is meant to be used to guide the systematic variation of tasks for implementation in the classroom while using digital technologies. Examples of problems and tasks illustrate this process. Additionally, results of an empirical investigation with Grade 8 students, which focusses on the students’ skills with digital technologies, how they utilize these tools when engaging with the developed tasks, and how they influence their functional thinking, are presented. The research aim is to investigate in which way tasks designed according to the theoretical framework could promote functional thinking while using digital technologies in the sense of the operative principle. The results show that the developed framework—Function-Operation-Matrix—is a sound basis for initiating students’ actions in the sense of the operative principle, to foster the development of functional thinking in its three aspects, namely, assignment, co-variation and object, and that digital technologies can support this process in a meaningful way.
Decrease in treatment intensity predicts worse outcome in patients with locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma undergoing radiochemotherapy
Authors: Mollnar S. , Pondorfer P. , Kasparek A.-K. , Reinisch S. , Moik F. , Stotz M. , Halm M. , Szkandera J. , Terbuch A. , Eisner F. , Gerger A. , Kapp K. S. , Partl R. , Vasicek S. , Weiland T. , Pichler M. , Stöger H. , Thurnher D. , Posch F.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Radiochemotherapy (RCT) is an effective standard therapy for locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (LA-HNSCC). Nonetheless, toxicity is common, with patients often requiring dose modifications.

Methods

To investigate associations of RCT toxicities according to CTCAE version 5.0 and subsequent therapy modifications with short- and long-term treatment outcomes, we studied all 193 patients with HNSCC who received RCT (70 Gy + platinum agent) at an academic center between 03/2010 and 04/2018.

Results

During RCT, 77 (41%, 95% CI 34–49) patients developed at least one ≥ grade 3 toxicity, including seven grade 4 and 3 fatal grade 5 toxicities. The most frequent any-grade toxicities were xerostomia (n = 187), stomatitis (n = 181), dermatitis (n = 174), and leucopenia (n = 98). Eleven patients (6%) had their radiotherapy schedule modified (mean radiotherapy dose reduction = 12 Gy), and 120 patients (64%) had chemotherapy modifications (permanent discontinuation: n = 67, pause: n = 34, dose reduction: n = 7, change to other chemotherapy: n = 10). Objective response rates to RCT were 55% and 88% in patients with and without radiotherapy modifications (p = 0.003), and 84% and 88% in patients with and without chemotherapy modifications (p = 0.468), respectively. Five-year progression-free survival estimates were 20% and 50% in patients with and without radiotherapy modifications (p = < 0.001), and 53% and 40% in patients with and without chemotherapy modifications (p = 0.88), respectively.

Conclusions

Reductions of radiotherapy dose were associated with impaired long-term outcomes, whereas reductions in chemotherapy intensity were not. This suggests that toxicities during RCT should be primarily managed by modifying chemotherapy rather than radiotherapy.
Application of SDS surfactant microemulsion for removal of filter cake of oil-based drilling fluid: influence of cosurfactant
Authors: da Silva Valdic Luiz , Ribeiro Laís Sibaldo , de Oliveira Freitas Júlio Cezar , da Silva Daniel Nobre Nunes , de Carvalho Luciene Santos , Rodrigues Marcos Allyson Felipe , Wanderley Neto Alcides de Oliveira
Published: July 2020

After drilling oil wells using oil-based drilling fluid, there is the occurrence of a formation of a thin layer of solids adsorbed on the surface, called filter cake, which must be removed to obtain satisfactory well cementation. The present work developed microemulsion systems from sodium dodecyl sulfate, a biodegradable surfactant, with kerosene as oil phase, n-butanol as cosurfactant and distilled water, in order to evaluate its efficiency in removing the filter cake. The results showed that the microemulsion systems composed of inverse and bicontinuous micelles removed 100% of the filter cake regardless of the content of the constituents in the formulation, while the direct micelles only reached 100% with the formulation composed by 10% kerosene and cosurfactant/surfactant ratio = 4. It was observed that the cosurfactant/surfactant ratio is a determining variable for direct micelles to remove 100% of the filter cake and that they are compatible with cement, offering desirable thermal stability and improving the wettability of the rock in water.
Experimental investigation and prediction of tribological behavior of unidirectional short castor oil fiber reinforced epoxy composites
Authors: Egala Rajesh , Jagadeesh G. V. , Setti Srinivasu Gangi
Published: July 2020

The present study aims at introducing a newly developed natural fiber called castor oil fiber, termed ricinus communis, as a possible reinforcement in tribo-composites. Unidirectional short castor oil fiber reinforced epoxy resin composites of different fiber lengths with 40% volume fraction were fabricated using hand layup technique. Dry sliding wear tests were performed on a pin-on-disc tribometer based on full factorial design of experiments (DoE) at four fiber lengths (5, 10, 15, and 20 mm), three normal loads (15, 30, and 45 N), and three sliding distances (1,000, 2,000, and 3,000 m). The effect of individual parameters on the amount of wear, interfacial temperature, and coefficient of friction was studied using analysis of variance (ANOVA). The composite with 5 mm fiber length provided the best tribological properties than 10, 15, and 20 mm fiber length composites. The worn surfaces were analyzed under scanning electron microscope. Also, the tribological behavior of the composites was predicted using regression, artificial neural network (ANN)-single hidden layer, and ANN-multi hidden layer models. The confirmatory test results show the reliability of predicted models. ANN with multi hidden layers are found to predict the tribological performance accurately and then followed by ANN with single hidden layer and regression model.
Corrosion-wear behavior of a biocompatible magnesium matrix composite in simulated body fluid
Authors: Su Jinlong , Teng Jie , Xu Zili , Li Yuan
Published: July 2020

Magnesium matrix composites are a new generation of biocompatible implant materials, but they will inevitably undergo simultaneous wear and corrosion in the human body. In this study, hydroxyapatite (Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2, HA) is used in a magnesium matrix composite to study its effects on the corrosion–wear behavior. Two samples (a magnesium alloy composed of Mg, Zn, and Zr (ZK60) alloy and ZK60/10HA composite) were fabricated using the powder metallurgy (PM) process. Their corrosion–wear behavior was investigated using the sliding wear test in a simulated body fluid (SBF). At all the sliding velocities tested, the corrosion-wear resistance of ZK60/10HA was superior to ZK60. At a sliding velocity of 942.5 mm/min, ZK60/10HA demonstrated a 42% improvement in corrosion–wear resistance compared to ZK60. For ZK60, the main wear mechanism under dry conditions was abrasion, while the wear mechanisms in the SBF were abrasion and corrosion. For ZK60/10HA, the wear mechanisms under dry conditions were abrasion and delamination, while in SBF they were mainly abrasion and corrosion, accompanied by slight delamination. The results indicated that HA particles can be used as an effective corrosion–wear inhibitor in biocompatible magnesium matrix composites.
Speciation by triparental hybridization in genus Sorbus (Rosaceae)
Authors: Németh Csaba , Papp Nóra , Nosková Jana , Höhn Mária
Published: July 2020

Hybridization associated with polyploidization and apomixis is a frequent mechanism of speciation.Sorbusis a genus with ongoing hybridization resulting in a polyploid complex with different parental lineage.Triparensis the smallest hybridogenous subgenus ofSorbusso far known to comprise only two taxa,S. intermediaandS. × liljeforsiithat combine the genomes of three taxa (S. ariaagg.,S. aucupariaandS. torminalis). To elucidate the origins ofS. dacica,S. paxianaandS. tauricola, three new trigenomic candidates formerly believed to be of biparental origin with eitherS. ariaagg. × S. aucupariaorS. ariaagg. × S. torminalislineage we combined data from HPLC and chloroplast DNA analysing additional 33 related taxa as well. We concluded that the ‘torminalis-type’ flavonoid profile and the ‘aucuparia-type’ plastid indicate the participation of bothS. torminalisandS. aucupariaresulting in the formation ofS. dacica,S. paxianaandS. tauricola.Sorbus ariaagg. as the third ancestor and as a necessary link to meet genes ofS. torminalisandS. aucupariain one genome is obvious from morphological features (densely tomentose undersides of leaves). The tetraploid cytotypes and obligate pseudogamy ofS. dacicaandS. paxianawere determined by flow cytometry and are published here for the first time. The most probable evolutionary scenario forTriparensspecies is: 1. a diploid sexualS. aucupariaas pollen acceptor hybridized with a tetraploid apomictic taxon from theS. ariaagg. producing a triploid apomictic taxon with ‘aucuparia-type’ plastid inherited maternally; 2. during a second crossing event this subgenusSorariahybrid as maternal progenitor hybridized with the sexual diploidS. torminalis(providing gene(s) of apigenin O-glucuronide synthesis) forming a tetraploidTriparenshybrid with ‘aucuparia-type’ plastid and ‘torminalis-type’ flavonoids.
Sustainable Neighborhood Public Outreach: I-95 GIR Archaeological Investigations in Philadelphia
Authors: Tull Stephen W.
Published: July 2020

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration are undertaking a long-term, multiphase project to improve and rebuild Interstate 95 (I-95) in Pennsylvania, within the historic city of Philadelphia. Given the complex urban setting, the archaeological subsurface testing for the I-95 Girard Avenue Interchange Improvement Project is being guided by a programmatic agreement under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and a categorical exclusion under the National Environmental Policy Act. Through data-recovery excavations, the contractor for the project, AECOM, has documented 30 historical-period and Native American archaeological sites. The project includes its own professional journal, live interactive reporting, and a public archaeology center.
Spaces for Creativity in Mediterranean Archaeological Heritage Management
Authors: Almansa-Sánchez Jaime
Published: July 2020

Public Archaeology in the Mediterranean Context (#pubarchMED) is a project that focuses on the management of archaeological heritage in the Mediterranean context from the perspective of public archaeology. Ranging from fully public models where preventive archaeology itself is a challenge to mixed models where the outsourcing of this work has been accomplished to a full extent, the variety of solutions is wide and with a common trend: struggle with mitigation and little space for creativity. This article will delve into the range of models that exist in the Mediterranean, exploring the way they approach, first of all, preventive/rescue archaeology, and then, the relationship between archaeology and society in the process. Building on the challenges of an underfunded scheme for an extremely archaeologically rich territory, different solutions have been set in practice—in some cases, under the auspices of competent administrations in the form of public policy—in the endeavor to include public archaeology in the practice, mostly encouraged by professionals as a personal or corporate initiative, and sometimes even consciously avoided. The discussion will offer some ideas for creative mitigation in the different scenarios, built on the comparative study and the broad possibilities to engage stakeholders positively in the process.
Constitutionality of the Colombia-France Bilateral Investment Treaty
Authors: Tamayo-Álvarez Rafael
Published: July 2020

In a judgment issued on June 6, 2019 (Judgment), the Colombian Constitutional Court (Court) examined the constitutionality of the Agreement for the Reciprocal Promotion and Protection of Investments between Colombia and France (Agreement). The Court upheld the constitutionality of the Agreement on the condition that the government adopt a joint interpretative statement with France to clarify some of its provisions and prevent interpretations contrary to the Colombian constitutional order. In doing so, the Court articulated a standard of review that takes into account the benefits and costs of international investment agreements (IIAs), the application of which entailed an insightful examination of the Agreement in light of the decisions of investment tribunals. The judgment raises significant issues of public international law, including the practical implications of conditioning ratification of the Agreement on adoption of a joint interpretative statement and the role of such statements in the interpretation of IIAs. Furthermore, the judgment makes important contributions to the ongoing process of reform of the investment treaty regime and the strategies adopted by states to counter the adverse impacts of IIAs on regulatory autonomy.
WE SHOULDN'T WAIT FOR HEAVEN: HOW HEAD/BODY TRANSPLANTATION CAUSES US TO REEVALUATE HALAKHIC CONCEPTIONS OF LIFE AND DEATH
Authors: Bedzow Ira , Loike John , Stadlan Noam
Published: July 2020

In this article, the authors examine how the potential success of head/body transplantation raises questions as to how halakha—Jewish law and jurisprudence—might draw the line between determining whether a person is dead or alive. In presenting the primary Talmudic passages that refer to determination of life and death, and their discussion among halakhists and halakhic decisors, the authors show how the halakha might determine the demarcation between life and death as it applies to head/body transplants or potentially other innovations in medical technology.
Prolonged length of stay after surgery for adult congenital heart disease: a single-centre study in a developing country
Authors: Martins Russell S. , Dawood Zaiba S. , Memon Muhammad K. Y. , Akhtar Saleem
Published: July 2020

Background:

With the growing number of adults requiring operations for CHD, prolonged length of stay adds an additional burden on healthcare systems, especially in developing countries. This study aimed to identify factors associated with prolonged length of stay in adult patients undergoing operations for CHD.

Methods:

This retrospective study included all adult patients (≥18 years) who underwent cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass for their CHD from 2011 to 2016 at a tertiary-care private hospital in Pakistan. Prolonged length of stay was defined as hospital stay >75th percentile of the overall cohort (>8 days).

Results:

This study included 166 patients (53.6% males) with a mean age of 32.05 ± 12.11 years. Comorbid disease was present in 59.0% of patients. Most patients underwent atrial septal defect repair (42.2%). A total of 38 (22.9%) patients had a prolonged length of stay. Post-operative complications occurred in 38.6% of patients. Multivariable analysis showed that pre-operative body mass index (odds ratio: 0.779; 95% confidence interval: 0.620–0.980), intraoperative aortic cross-clamp time (odds ratio: 1.035; 95% confidence interval: 1.009–1.062), and post-operative acute kidney injury (odds ratio: 7.392; 95% confidence interval: 1.036–52.755) were associated with prolonged length of stay.

Conclusion:

Predictors of prolonged length of stay include lower body mass index, longer aortic cross-clamp time, and development of post-operative acute kidney injury. Shorter operations, improved pre-operative nutritional optimisation, and timely management of post-operative complications could help prevent prolonged length of stay in patients undergoing operations for adult CHD.
From Euro-noir to Europe
Authors: Baetens Jan , Truyen Fred
Published: July 2020

This introduction briefly deals with the major orientations of this European Review Focus on ‘European crime fiction’. It first specifies what is meant by ‘Europe’ and which type of questions can be asked of crime fiction in view of a better understanding of Europe’s multiple and changing identities. It then presents the various contributions by linking them with the three fundamental questions of (1) circulation of crime fiction, (2) expansion of crime fiction in the broader cultural, social and economic field, and (3) the relevance of crime fiction for a thorough reflection on some properly European aspects of culture and society.
Patterns of recurrence in patients receiving conformal radiation for intracranial meningioma: a single-institution experience
Authors: Rajkrishna B. , Rajesh Balakrishnan , Patricia Sebastian , Selvamani B.
Published: July 2020

Aim:

To evaluate the patterns of recurrence following postoperative conformal radiotherapy (RT) for intracranial meningioma.

Materials and methods:

Eighty-six patients who received conformal RT for intracranial meningiomas from 2014 to 2017 were retrospectively analysed. For documented recurrences, recurrence imaging was deformably co-registered to planning CT scan. In-field recurrence was defined as recurrence within the 90% isodose line, and out-of-field recurrences were those that occurred outside the 90% isodose line. We present the demographic details, surgical and RT details, outcomes and patterns of recurrence.

Results:

The median age was 46 years (range 17–72); 82·6% underwent surgery [46·5% had subtotal resection (STR), 43·7% gross tumour resection (GTR), 5·6% biopsy] and 17·4% had no surgery. Among these, 53·5% were WHO grade 2; 27·9% grade 1; and 1·2% grade 3 meningioma. Fifty per cent received stereotactic RT (SRT), 46·5% 3D conformal RT (3DCRT) and 3·5% intensity-modulated RT (IMRT). The mean clinical target volume (CTV) and planning target volume (PTV) margins were 4·5 mm (range 0–15) and 3·9 mm (range 1–5), respectively. The doses ranged from 54 to 59·4 Gy. The median follow-up after RT was 1·7 years (range 0·2–4·7). 17·4% were lost to follow-up, 5·4% had recurrence, and the median time to recurrence after completion of RT was 2 years (range 0·7–2·9). The 3-year recurrence-free rate was 81·5%. Three patients had in-field and two had in-field and out-of-field recurrence. Among the cases with recurrence, three received SRT, one 3DCRT and one IMRT. Four were grade 2 and one was grade 3 tumour, and the CTV margin ranged from 0 to 5 mm, and the PTV margin ranged from 3 to 5 mm.

Conclusion:

Local recurrence was seen in grade 2 and 3 meningiomas. SRT probably had more recurrence as they had lesser CTV margin. Increased CTV margin, escalated dose up to 59·4 Gy and 3DCRT/IMRT may be helpful in preventing local recurrences in grade 2 and grade 3 meningiomas.
Bidirectional association between blood pressure and depressive symptoms in young and middle-age adults: A cohort study
Authors: Jeon Sang Won , Chang Yoosoo , Lim Se-Won , Cho Juhee , Kim Han-Na , Kim Kyoung-Beom , Kim Jinseok , Kim Young Hwan , Shin Dong-Won , Oh Kang-Seob , Shin Young-Chul , Ryu Seungho
Published: July 2020

Aims

To evaluate the bidirectional relationship between blood pressure (BP) and depressive symptoms using a large prospective cohort study.

Methods

Prospective cohort study was performed in 276 244 adults who participated in a regular health check-up and were followed annually or biennially for up to 5.9 years. BP levels were categorised according to the 2017 American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association hypertension guidelines. Depressive symptoms were assessed using Centre for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression (CESD) questionnaire and a cut-off score of ≥25 was regarded as case-level depressive symptoms.

Results

During 672 603.3 person-years of follow-up, 5222 participants developed case-level depressive symptoms. The multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) [95% confidence interval (CI)] for incident case-level depressive symptoms comparing hypotension, elevated BP, hypertension stage 1 and hypertension stage 2 to normal BP were 1.07 (0.99–1.16), 0.93 (0.82–1.05), 0.89 (0.81–0.97) and 0.81 (0.62–1.06), respectively (p for trend <0.001). During 583 615.3 person-years of follow-up, 27 787 participants developed hypertension. The multivariable-adjusted HRs (95% CI) for incident hypertension comparing CESD 16–24 and ⩾25 to CESD < 16 were 1.05 (1.01–1.11) and 1.12 (1.03–1.20), respectively (p for trend <0.001) and in the time-dependent models, corresponding HRs (95% CI) were 1.12 (1.02–1.24) and 1.29 (1.10–1.50), respectively (p for trend <0.001).

Conclusions

In this large cohort study of young and middle-aged individuals, higher BP levels were independently associated with a decreased risk for developing case-level depressive symptoms and depressive symptoms were also associated with incident hypertension. Further studies are required to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the bidirectional association between BP levels and incident depression.
Forensic Source Conclusions
Authors: Koehler Jonathan J.
Published: July 2020

Abstract. Forensic science evidence may be the most powerful weapon in the arsenal of law enforcement officials and prosecutors. As such, it is important to be aware of factors that threaten the validity of forensic source conclusions (e.g., “This bullet was fired from that gun”). This paper identifies 20 threats to the validity of forensic source conclusions including threats that spring from (a) the evidentiary samples themselves, (b) forensic examiners and the procedures they use, (c) features of the law, and (d) cognitive limitations of jurors and others who must weigh forensic science source claims.