bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preschoolers' extension and export of information from realistic and fantastical stories
Authors: Weisberg Deena Skolnick , Hopkins Emily J.
Published: April 2020

How do young children decide which events can happen within fictional stories (extension) and learn new information from these stories (export)? In two studies, we investigate these two issues as well as the influence of story genre (realistic or fantastical) on these processes. Preschoolers (N = 192) heard either a realistic or fantastical story and were asked (a) whether a target piece of information should be extended to a different situation within the story context and (b) whether that piece of information could be true in real life. Extension and export were not generally affected by genre, but they were affected by the type of information with which children were presented. Adults (N = 93) responded similarly. These results suggest that children have a mature tendency to expect stories to remain internally consistent and rely on their background knowledge to interpret story events.

Highlights

We tested preschoolers' extension of information within realistic and fantastical stories and their learning from these stories.

Children expect stories to remain internally consistent, regardless of genre; both extension and learning were affected primarily by their familiarity with the target material.

Children's interactions with stories can shed light on their developing conceptual knowledge.
Efficient super‐resolution volumetric imaging by radial fluctuation Bayesian analysis light‐sheet microscopy
Authors: Chen Rong , Zhao Yuxuan , Li Mengna , Wang Yarong , Zhang Luoying , Fei Peng
Published: April 2020

Various computational super‐resolution methods are available based on the analysis of fluorescence fluctuation behind acquired frames. However, dilemmas often exist in the balance of fluorophore characteristics, computation cost, and achievable resolution. Here we present an approach that uses a super‐resolution radial fluctuations (SRRF) image to guide the Bayesian analysis of fluorophore blinking and bleaching (3B) events, allowing greatly accelerated localization of overlapping fluorophores with high accuracy. This radial fluctuation Bayesian analysis (RFBA) approach is also extended to three dimensions for the first time and combined with light‐sheet fluorescence microscopy, to achieve super‐resolution volumetric imaging of thick samples densely labeled with common fluorophores. For example, a 700‐nm thin Bessel plane illumination is developed to optically section the Drosophila brain, providing a high‐contrast 3D image of rhythmic neurons. RFBA analyzes 30 serial volumes to reconstruct a super‐resolved 3D image at 4‐times higher resolutions (~70 and 170 nm), and precisely resolve the axon terminals. The computation is over 2‐orders faster than conventional 3B analysis microscopy. The capability of RFBA is also verified through dual‐color imaging of cell nucleus in live Drosophila brain. The spatial co‐localization patterns of the nuclear envelope and DNA in a neuron deep inside the brain can be precisely extracted by our approach.
Metal‐reinforced sulfonic‐acid‐modified zirconia for the removal of trace olefins from aromatics
Authors: Kong Decun , Peng Qian , Shi Li , Wang Xin , Meng Xuan , Hu Xiude , Liu Naiwang
Published: April 2020

Metal‐reinforced sulfonic‐acid‐modified zirconia catalysts were successfully prepared and used to remove trace olefins from aromatics in a fixed‐bed reactor. Catalysts were characterized by ICP‐OES, N2 adsorption–desorption, X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and pyridine‐FTIR spectroscopy. Different metals and calcination temperatures had great influence on the catalytic activity. Alumina‐reinforced sulfated zirconia exhibited outstanding catalytic performance, stable regeneration activity, and giant surface area, and are promising in industrial catalysis. TGA showed that the decomposition of methyl could be attributed to Brønsted acid sites, and pyridine‐FTIR spectroscopy proved the weak Brønsted sites on these synthesized metal‐reinforced sulfated zirconia. Also, a relation between the reaction rate and weak Brønsted acid density is proposed.
Community cultural wealth in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education: A systematic review
Authors: Denton Maya , Borrego Maura , Boklage Audrey
Published: April 2020

Background

One emerging approach to diversity and inclusion in engineering is to take an assets‐based view of what students from nondominant communities bring to their education and work experiences.

Purpose/Hypothesis

The purpose of this review is to understand how community cultural wealth (CCW), an assets‐based framework, has been applied in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education research. We address research questions focused on (a) the characteristics of studies using CCW in STEM education, (b) examples of the six types of capital (aspirational, linguistic, familial, navigational, social, and resistant) in STEM educational settings, and (c) gaps and opportunities in how CCW is being applied in STEM education.

Design/Method

We identified 33 dissertations, theses, journal articles, and conference papers using systematic review procedures. To qualify, each study must present empirical data and include at least one type of CCW capital in its results or discussion. We coded study characteristics, such as methods, participant populations, and research setting. We qualitatively analyzed each of the six types of CCW capital.

Results

Studies tended to focus on higher education settings, engineering, and qualitative methods, particularly student interviews. We identified several specific engineering‐relevant examples of assets for each type of capital. Future work should collect data from faculty, staff, and family members identified in several studies as important to CCW in addition to foregrounding student voices.

Conclusions

In synthesizing existing studies, this review provides insight into how an assets‐based framework is being interpreted and provides a foundation for more assets‐based perspectives in future engineering education work.
Editorial for “Interreader Agreement of Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System on MRI: A Systematic Review and Meta Analysis”
Authors: Chernyak Victoria , Sirlin Claude B.
Published: April 2020

Level of Evidence

5

Technical Efficacy Stage

2 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;52:805–806.
Sequential amidation of peptide C‐termini for improving fragmentation efficiency
Authors: Wu Qiong , Tian Yu’e , Yang Chao , Liang Zhen , Shan Yichu , Zhang Lihua , Zhang Yukui
Published: April 2020

Owing to the poor fragmentation efficiency caused by the lack of a positively charged basic group at the C‐termini of peptides, the identification of nontryptic peptides in classical proteomics is known to be less efficient. Particularly, attaching positively charged basic groups to C‐termini via chemical derivatizations is known to be able to enhance their fragmentation efficiency. In this study, we introduced a novel strategy, C‐termini sequential amidation reaction (CSAR), to improve peptide fragmentation efficiency. By this strategy, C‐terminal and side‐chain carboxyl groups were firstly amidated by neutral methylamine (MA), and then C‐terminal amide bonds were selectively deamidated through peptide amidase while side‐chain amide bonds remained unchanged, followed by the secondary amidation of C‐termini via basic agmatine (AG). We optimized the amidation reaction conditions to achieve the MA derivatization efficiency of >99% for side‐chain carboxyl groups and AG derivatization efficiency of 80% for the hydrolytic C‐termini. We applied CSAR strategy to identify bovine serum albumin (BSA) chymotryptic digests, resulting in the increased fragmentation efficiencies (improvement by 9–32%) and charge states (improvement by 39–52%) under single or multiple dissociation modes. The strategy described here might be a promising approach for the identification of peptides that suffered from poor fragmentation efficiency.
Epidemiology of Influenza among patients with influenza‐like illness and severe acute respiratory illness in Pakistan: A 10‐year surveillance study 2008‐17
Authors: Nisar Nadia , Aamir Uzma Bashir , Badar Nazish , Mahmood Muhammad Rashid , Yaqoob Aashifa , Tripathy Jaya Prasad , Laxmeshwar Chinmay , Tenzin Karma , Zaidi Syed Sohail Zahoor , Salman Muhammad , Ikram Aamer
Published: April 2020

In Pakistan, the burden of influenza was largely unknown, as no formal surveillance system was in place. In 2008, an influenza surveillance system was set up in eight sentinel sites. This study describes the epidemiology of influenza virus using a 10‐year surveillance data from 2008 to 2017. Nasopharyngeal/throat swabs were collected from patients with influenza‐like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory illness (SARI) along with relevant epidemiological information. The samples were tested using real‐time reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction for the detection and characterization of influenza viruses. A total of 17 209 samples were tested for influenza, out of which 3552 (20.6%) were positive; 2151/11 239 (19.1%) were patients with ILI, whereas 1401/5970 (23.5%) were patients with SARI. Influenza A/H1N1pdm09 was the predominant strain with 40.6% (n = 1442) followed by influenza B (936, 26.4%). Influenza A/H1N1pdm09 was predominant among the children (5‐14 years) and adults (15‐64 years). Influenza B strain was predominantly found in the elderly age group (≥ 65 years) accounting for 48% of cases followed by children (2‐4 years) accounting for 37% of cases. This 10‐year surveillance data provides evidence of influenza activity in the country throughout the year with seasonal winter peaks. The results could be used to strengthen the epidemic preparedness and response plan.
Infection and migration incidence of cardiac implantable electrical devices in Japan: Web‐based survey results
Authors: Nakajima Hiroshi , Nishii Nobuhiro
Published: April 2020

Web‐based survey was conducted for experiences of cardiac implantable electrical device (CIED) infection and migration in Japan. A total of 155 cardiologists’ answer was collected in January, 2018. CIED includes pacemaker (PM), implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), cardiac resynchronization therapy pacemaker (CRT‐P), and cardiac resynchronization therapy ICD (CRT‐D) and total of 10,499 CIEDs’ experiences of within previous twelve months were reported. CIED includes pacemaker (PM), implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), cardiac resynchronization therapy pacemaker (CRT‐P), and cardiac resynchronization therapy ICD (CRT‐D.). The infection rate of PM, ICD, CRT‐P, and CRT‐D was 0.79%, 0.81%, 0.45%, and 2.0%, respectively, and the device migration rate was 0.68%, 0.64%, 0.45%, and 0.93%, respectively. The overall infection rate was 0.85% and migration rate was 0.68%.
The variability of the Siberian high ridge over the Middle East
Authors: Labban Abdulhaleem H. , Mashat Abdul‐Wahab S. , Awad Adel M.
Published: April 2020

An objective method was developed to detect local cells of the Siberian high (SH) over the Middle East, and mean sea level pressure (SLP) data from the National Centers for Environmental Prediction/National Center for Atmospheric Research reanalysis dataset were used to specify the centers of local SH cells and associated ridges. The results indicated that approximately 25.8% of winter SH cells influence the Middle East, and this influence diminishes from December to February. Synoptically, the area between the Black and Caspian Seas represents a remote area for sensing the influences of the SH on the Middle East. Although the SH is considered a shallow system, the variability of the effectiveness of the SH throughout the Middle East was estimated from the integration of atmospheric systems at the whole‐atmosphere scale (from the surface to 200 hPa). Further, this study demonstrated that the westward extension of the SH over the Middle East is associated with weak cyclogenesis in the area between the Black and Caspian Seas; that is, the atmospheric systems are favourable for strengthening the upper‐layer ridge in this area. However, the eastward retreat of the SH extension from the Middle East is associated with strong cyclogenesis in the area between the Black and Caspian Seas; that is, the atmospheric systems are unfavourable for strengthening the upper‐layer ridge in this area. This study revealed the importance of the SH in the generation of the pressure gradient over the Arabian Peninsula and the associated development of dust storms and the Red Sea Trough.
The role of indirect prey‐taxis and interference among predators in pattern formation
Authors: Mishra Purnedu , Wrzosek Dariusz
Published: April 2020

It is important to find biological factors that may lead to formation of patches in the distribution of species. We build a simple model describing a consumer/predator which, besides random dispersion, searches for food by moving toward the gradient of some chemical released by prey. This mechanism is referred as indirect prey‐taxis. The predator's rate of consumption is assumed to drop due to interference among predators when too many of them encounter on some aggregate of prey. The latter is assumed to have a negligible motility with its density governed by an ODE. The interference among consumers is modeled by a modification of the Beddington's de Angelis functional response. Detailed bifurcation analysis and numerical simulations of an auxiliary system indicate that nonconstant steady states imitating patches of species occur in the model provided the predator density exceeds certain threshold and taxis strength is big enough.
Global well‐posedness and exponential stability results of a class of Bresse‐Timoshenko‐type systems with distributed delay term
Authors: Choucha Abdelbaki , Ouchenane Djamel , Zennir Khaled , Feng Baowei
Published: April 2020

In this paper, we consider a Bresse‐Timoshenko‐type system with distributed delay term. Under suitable assumptions, we establish the global well‐posedness of the initial and boundary value problem by using the Faedo‐Galerkin approximations and some energy estimates. By using the energy method, we show two exponential stability results for the system with delay in vertical displacement and in angular rotation, respectively. This extends earlier results in the literature.
A novel result on regularity of time‐periodic Lagrangians
Authors: Li Xia , Liu Qihuai
Published: April 2020

The regularity of the Peierls barrier
for time‐periodic Lagrangian systems is equivalent to the convergence of the associated Lax‐Oleinik semigroup. In this paper, we established a novel result on the regularity, which has been applied to the convergence and nonconvergence of the Lax‐Oleinik semigroup for time‐periodic Lagrangians.
Building a student success network helps keep adult learners on track
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: April 2020

Marissa McYeng took a circuitous route to working with adult learners, originally intending to go into elementary school education, and then considering a career in library science. But when she enrolled at Montclair State University to earn her second master's degree, this time in educational leadership for higher education, and worked at an internship at Bloomfield College with adult learners, she realized she'd found her calling. After graduating, McYeng found a job at Bloomfield and worked her way up to her current role at the college, Assistant Director and Adult Learning Support Specialist.
Is there an association between social determinants and care dependency risk? A multi‐state model analysis of a longitudinal study
Authors: Schneider Alice , Blüher Stefan , Grittner Ulrike , Anton Verena , Schaeffner Elke , Ebert Natalie , Jakob Olga , Martus Peter , Kuhlmey Adelheid , Wenning Volker , Schnitzer Susanne
Published: April 2020

Despite a growing body of knowledge about the morbidities and functional impairment that frequently lead to care dependency, the role of social determinants is not yet well understood. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of social determinants on care dependency onset and progression. We used data from the Berlin Initiative Study, a prospective, population‐based cohort study including 2,069 older participants living in Berlin. Care dependency was defined as requiring substantial assistance in at least two activities of daily living for 90 min daily (level 1) or 3+ hours daily (level 2). Multi‐state time to event regression modeling was used to estimate the effects of social determinants (partnership status, education, income, and sex), morbidities, and health behaviors, characteristics, and conditions. During the study period, 556 participants (27.5%) changed their status of care dependency. Participants without a partner at baseline were at a higher risk to become care‐dependent than participants with a partner (hazard ratio [HR], 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.24 (1.02–1.51)). After adjustment for other social determinants, morbidities and health behaviors, characteristics, and conditions the risk decreased to a HR of 1.19 (95% CI: 0.79–1.79). Results indicate that older people without a partner may tend to be at higher risk of care dependency onset but not at higher risk of care dependency progression. Clinicians should inquire about and consider patients’ partnership status as they evaluate care needs.
A robust and healable polyurethane based on coordination bonds
Authors: Xu Shaobin , Sheng Dekun , Zhou Yan , Wu Haohao , Xie Haopu , Liu Xiangdong , Yang Yuming
Published: April 2020

Most self‐healing materials based on noncovalent bonding suffer from poor mechanical performance, which largely limits their further application. Herein, we designed and synthesized robust and healable polymers that can be healed under heating. They consist of a linear and three‐arm branched polyurethane mixture with triazole ligand end groups that are noncovalently linked through Fe–triazole interaction. The three‐arm branched polyurethane in the polymer mixture would imply parts of Fe‐triazole coordination bonds were replaced by covalent bonds and, as a consequence, yield materials with improved mechanical properties. Additionally, the mechanical properties of resulting polymers can be tuned by the number of Fe–triazole supramolecular crosslinks. Due to the dynamic nature of Fe–triazole interaction, all the metallopolymers exhibit excellent healable efficiency (over 90%) based on toughness. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
The regional dynamics of internal migration intensities in Italy
Authors: Bonifazi Corrado , Heins Frank , Licari Francesca , Tucci Enrico
Published: April 2020

This paper considers internal migration in Italy in terms of current patterns and longer term trends in migration intensity. It systematically reviews the Italian situation by considering internal migration patterns by citizenship and gender using a geography of 611 local labour market areas (LLMAs), distinguishing between short‐ and long‐distance moves. Attention is given, in particular, to how migration intensities have changed between the categories of LLMAs and across different demographic subgroups. The paper also provides descriptive analyses of the influence on migration patterns of the persistent socio‐economic disparities, which exist between LLMAs. Finally, it discusses the role of delayed youth transitions from home, showing how this phenomenon—also observed in other countries—manifests itself in the Italian national and regional contexts.
Tailoring the electrochemical interface of mesoporous carbon with ubiquinone for detection of parabens in cosmetics
Authors: Kannan Aarthi , Shalini Devi K. S. , Dinesh Bose , Maheswari Krishnan Uma , Gandhi Sakthivel
Published: April 2020

Quality assessment of paraben in cosmetic products is in need to avoid and control the deadly side effect caused in humans. Though, there are various studies reported on sensing paraben electrochemically, the use of chemical modifiers is restricted to carbon based materials due to its efficiency but, the mesoporous carbon with high surface area and electron transfer property is hitherto unexplored. Here, we have investigated the sensing of paraben and its derivatives by using ubiquinone (Q10) introduced mesoporous carbon (MPC) via cyclic voltammetric (CV) and differential pulse voltammetric (DPV) techniques. The morphological studies of MPC showed rod shaped structure. The pore size and the pore volume were found to be 3.93 nm and 0.4 cm3/g respectively. The fabricated sensor showed good electrocatalytic activity for detecting methyl, ethyl and propyl paraben with the detection limit of 0.26 μM, 0.3 μM and 1.07 μM, respectively. Real time measurements of the modification were further utilized for commercially available cosmetic samples.
Cognitive arousal mediates the relationship between perceived ostracism and sleep quality but it is not moderated by experiential avoidance
Authors: Waldeck Daniel , Banerjee Moitree , Jenks Rebecca , Tyndall Ian
Published: April 2020

Previous research suggests that longer‐term perceived ostracism is related to poor sleep quality. In this study, we investigated the mediating effect of cognitive arousal on the perceived ostracism–sleep quality relationship. We also investigated whether experiential avoidance was a moderator of the cognitive arousal–sleep quality relationship. Participants (N = 251) were recruited through online research portals to take part in an online survey. A path analysis was used to test a moderated mediation effect between variables. It was found that cognitive arousal mediated the perceived ostracism–sleep quality relationship; however, experiential avoidance was not a significant moderator. These findings suggest that further research needs to be conducted to elucidate the mechanism of experiential avoidance to account for when it may impact sleep quality. Moreover, treatment interventions targeted at reducing cognitive arousal (e.g., cognitive behavioural therapy) prior to sleep are likely to bear some fruit.
Zustandsbewertung bestehender Druckrohrleitungen von Wasserkraftanlagen
Authors: Taras Andreas , Kager Armin , Theiner Dieter , Cavedon Valentina
Published: April 2020

Stählerne Druckrohrleitungen in Wasserkraftanlagen führen das Triebwasser von der Wasserfassung über weite Strecken und oft sehr große Höhensprünge hinweg zu den Kraftwerksturbinen. Als gleichzeitige Strukturelemente und Transportleitungen stellen sie besonders hoch und komplex beanspruchte Stahlkonstruktionen dar. Für die Betreiber von Wasserkraftanlagen ist die Bewertung des Zustands von Druckrohrleitungen daher einer der wichtigsten Schritte im Zuge der Erteilung, Erneuerung und Aufrechterhaltung einer Nutzungskonzession durch die staatlichen Behörden. Für die Wasserkraftanlagen in der italienischen Autonomen Provinz Bozen – Südtirol wurden – aufgrund ihrer besonderen Bedeutung für die Energieversorgung des Landes und des Alters der Anlagen – in den letzten Jahren systematisch derartige Zustandsbewertungen (Assessments) durchgeführt. Für die Bewertung bestehender älterer Druckrohrleitungen im Hinblick auf die statisch‐konstruktive Trag‐ und Betriebssicherheit muss dabei – aufgrund des Fehlens von einschlägigen Normen und Regelwerken mit allgemein anerkannten, durchgehenden Vorgehensweisen – auf die Expertise aus verschiedenen Literaturstellen und Fachbereichen zurückgegriffen werden. Das ist der Tatsache geschuldet, dass Druckrohrleitungen typische Eigenschaften sowohl eines (stählernen) Bauwerks als auch einer Hochdruckkomponente des Anlagenbaus aufweisen. Damit spielen die Ergebnisse von zerstörenden und zerstörungsfreien Prüfungen sowie die Anwendung fortschrittlicher numerischer Berechnungen und Nachweisverfahren eine besonders große Rolle. Dieser Beitrag vermittelt einen Überblick über die im Land Südtirol in den letzten Jahren durchgeführten Zustandsbewertungen bei Druckrohrleitungen und die dabei angewandten Methoden.
Exploring Global Englishes content and language variation in an academic writing course
Authors: Tardy Christine M. , Reed Kara , Slinkard Jennifer R. , LaMance Rachel
Published: April 2020

The Global English language teaching (GELT) paradigm gives increased recognition to the plurality of varieties, users, and uses of English worldwide. However, application of GELT to the academic writing classroom can be challenging because of written language’s reliance on codified standards; as such, few examples of GELT‐informed academic writing courses for English as an additional language (EAL) students are available to practitioners. In this article, the authors describe their institution’s approach to designing a university academic writing course for EAL students that blends content‐based instruction and a language and genre awareness approach, critically engaging students with principles of Global Englishes. The course aims to provide support for academic language and writing development while embracing language difference as a norm. This article describes the course approach, design, and feedback while discussing challenges and benefits for EAL writing teachers and students.
Annual modulations from secular variations: relaxing DAMA?
Authors: Buttazzo Dario , Panci Paolo , Rossi Nicola , Strumia Alessandro
Published: April 2020

Abstract

The DAMA collaboration reported an annually modulated rate with a phase compatible with a Dark Matter induced signal. We point out that a slowly varying rate can bias or even simulate an annual modulation if data are analyzed in terms of residuals computed by subtracting approximately yearly averages starting from a fixed date, rather than a background continuous in time. In the most extreme case, the amplitude and phase of the annual modulation reported by DAMA could be alternatively interpreted as a decennial growth of the rate. This possibility appears mildly disfavoured by a detailed study of the available data, but cannot be safely excluded. In general, a decreasing or increasing rate could partially reduce or enhance a true annual modulation, respectively. The issue could be clarified by looking at the full time-dependence of the DAMA total rate, not explicitly published so far.
Posteriores reversibles enzephalopathisches Syndrom und Hyperammonämie: zwei Entitäten für Hirnödem und Status epilepticus bei einer Patientin nach Lungentransplantation
Authors: Bächle F. , Bansbach J. , Hettich I. , Lambeck J. , Senbaklavaci Ö. , Kalbhenn J.
Published: April 2020

Fünf Wochen nach primär erfolgreicher Lungentransplantation entwickelt eine 58-jährige Patientin rasch progrediente neurologische Symptome mit Vigilanzverlust. Als Ursachen können einerseits ein posteriores reversibles enzephalopathisches Syndrom (PRES) unter Therapie mit Tacrolimus, andererseits eine schwere Hyperammonämie durch Sepsis mit Ureaplasma urealyticum identifiziert werden. Infektionen mit Ureaplasmen, die Ammoniak als Stoffwechselprodukt produzieren, werden durch spezifische „polymerase chain reaction“(PCR, Polymerase Kettenreaktion)-Verfahren zunehmend bei Immunsupprimierten identifiziert und sollten grundsätzlich als Ursache für unklare neurologische Symptome in Betracht gezogen werden.
Alles nur Spielzeug? Eine Untersuchung verschiedener Geschossspielzeuge hinsichtlich ihres Gefahrenpotenzials
Authors: Freund A. , Nordhaus M. , Ritz-Timme S. , Hartung B.
Published: April 2020

Geschossspielzeuge wie die der Marke Nerf werden von der Allgemeinheit zumeist als harmlos und ungefährlich angesehen. In den letzten Jahren wurden die bunten Waffen ständig weiterentwickelt und verschießen mittlerweile Projektile mit Geschwindigkeiten von deutlich über 100 km/h. Unlängst wurde von Augenverletzungen im Zusammenhang mit Geschossspielzeugen dieser Art berichtet. Eine Untersuchung verschiedener auf dem Markt erhältlicher Modelle hinsichtlich ihrer ballistischen Eigenschaften sollte Aufschluss darüber geben, welche Gefahr von ihnen ausgeht. Sowohl die im Versuch ermittelten kinetischen Energien und Kontaktflächen der Geschosse als auch die ungleichmäßige Verteilung des Drucks beim Auftreffen lassen darauf schließen, dass Augenverletzungen im Umgang mit Geschossspielzeugen nicht auszuschließen sind.
Robot-assisted treatment of unstable pelvic fractures with a percutaneous iliac lumbar double rod fixation combined with a percutaneous pelvic anterior ring INFIX fixation
Authors: Du Wei , Sun Tao , Ding Yan , Jiang Chuanqiang , Qu Wenqing , Zhang Shudong
Published: April 2020

Objective

To investigate the clinical effect of robot-assisted treatment of unstable pelvic fractures through a percutaneous iliac lumbar double rod fixation combined with a percutaneous pelvic anterior ring INFIX (internal fixator) fixation.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of 17 cases of unstable anterior and posterior pelvic ring fractures treated between April 2016 and October 2018 by the third Ti-robot system produced in China. The posterior ring was supported with an iliac lumbar double rod fixation and the anterior ring with an INFIX fixation. Operation time and peri-operative bleeding were recorded. The reduction of pelvic fracture displacement was evaluated by Matta score, the post-operative results were evaluated according to Majeed score, and the complications were recorded.

Results

Twelve males and five females, aged 21–71 years (mean 40.1 ± 3.8 years) were followed up for three to 12 months, (median 6.7 months). Tile typing showed seven B1 type, two B2 type, and eight C1 type cases. Operation time was 90–160 minutes (mean 112.9 ± 16.8 minutes), bleeding was 80–150 mL (mean 105.9 ± 20.6 mL). X-ray three to five  days after operation was evaluated by Matta score as excellent in 15 and good in two cases. Majeed score at last follow-up was 85–98 points, excellent in 17 cases. Two cases of lower extremity deep vein thrombosis received an inferior vena cava filter. The filters were removed after two  weeks. One case showed incision fat liquefaction healing and the wound healed three  weeks after surgery.

Conclusion

Orthopedic robot-assisted treatment of unstable pelvic fractures by a percutaneous iliac lumbar double rod fixation and a percutaneous pelvic anterior ring INFIX fixator was minimally invasive and feasible. A prospective study is needed.
Increased Survival Benefit of Adjuvant Intra‐arterial Infusion Chemotherapy in HCC Patients with Portal Vein Infiltration after Hepatectomy
Authors: Hamada T. , Yano K. , Wada T. , Imamura N. , Hiyoshi M. , Kondo K. , Nanashima Atsushi
Published: April 2020

Background

The role of adjuvant hepatic intra‐arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAI) is considered to be a promising option.

Methods

We examined treatment effects of adjuvant HAI using cisplatin in 37 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients with portal vein infiltration (PVI) who underwent hepatectomy in comparison with those in 85 patients who did not.

Results

PVI in 89 patients. Increased levels of aspartate transaminase, tumor markers, size and microvessel tumor infiltration (MVI) or cirrhosis, poorly differentiation, non‐adjuvant HAI was associated with lower overall survival (p = 0.09). Poor differentiation, MVI and HAI were independently risk factors associated with tumor‐free and overall survivals by the multivariate analysis (p < 0.05). Adjuvant HAI tended to show longer survivals in comparison with no‐HAI (p = 0.08) and the multivariate analysis revealed significant efficacy of HAI for better prognosis.

Conclusion

Adjuvant HAI showed effectiveness on prolonging tumor‐free and patient survival in HCC with PVI and is a promising option in the daily clinical practice.
Healthcare resource utilization in advanced non-small-cell lung cancer: post hoc analysis of the randomized phase 3 REVEL study
Authors: Garon Edward B. , Winfree Katherine B. , Molife Cliff , Cui Zhanglin Lin , Arriola Edurne , Levy Benjamin , Mekhail Tarek , Pérol Maurice
Published: April 2020

Purpose

In REVEL, patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (aNSCLC) and patients with increased tumor aggressiveness (rapid disease progression (RDP), platinum-refractory disease (PRD), and high symptom burden (HSB)) benefited from second-line treatment with ramucirumab plus docetaxel over placebo plus docetaxel. This post hoc analysis describes healthcare resource utilization (HCRU) associated with the treatment.

Methods

aNSCLC patients who had progressed during or after first-line platinum-based chemotherapy were randomized to receive docetaxel and either ramucirumab or placebo until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, withdrawal, or death. HCRU included hospitalizations, transfusions, and concomitant medications. Categorical variables (counts and percentages) were compared using Fisher’s exact test. Continuous variables (mean, standard deviation (SD), median, minimum, and maximum) were compared using the Wilcoxon rank sum test.

Results

Patient characteristics were largely similar between treatment arms. Within the intent-to-treat (ITT) population (n = 1253), the mean treatment duration was 19.7 and 16.9 weeks in the ramucirumab and control arms, respectively; 51.0% versus 54.9% of patients received subsequent anticancer therapy, respectively. Hospitalization rates were 41.9% versus 42.6% (p = 0.863), mean length of hospital stay was 14.5 days versus 11.3 days (p = 0.066), transfusion rates were 9.9% versus 12.3% (p = 0.206), and use of granulocyte colony-stimulating factors was 41.8% versus 36.6% (p = 0.063), respectively. No significant difference was observed in HCRU between treatment arms in both ITT population and in aggressive disease subgroups including RDP (n = 209), PRD (n = 360), and HSB (n = 497).

Conclusion

In REVEL, the addition of ramucirumab to docetaxel did not increase HCRU among patients with aggressive aNSCLC disease. These results may help inform economic evaluation of treatment for patients with aNSCLC.
Use of a new transanal irrigation device for bowel disorder management by patients familiar with the irrigation technique: a prospective, interventional, multicenter pilot study
Authors: Charvier K. , Bonniaud V. , Waz D. , Desprez C. , Leroi A.-M.
Published: April 2020

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of transanal irrigation (TAI) with a new medical device incorporating an electric pump, the IryPump®R Set.

Methods

An interventional, prospective, open-label, non-comparative, multicenter pilot study on TAI was conducted at three French university hospitals. Patients with experience of TAI were enrolled for a 1-month period during which 5 consecutive TAIs were performed using the IryPump®R Set (B.Braun Melsungen AG Melsungen, Germany). The study’s primary efficacy criterion was successful TAI, defined as (i) use of the patient’s usual irrigation volume of water, (ii) stool evacuation, and (iii) the absence of leakage between TAIs. The first two TAIs were not taken into account in the main analysis. The secondary outcome measures were device acceptability, bowel dysfunction scores, tolerability, and safety.

Results

Fifteen patients were included between November 2016 and May 2017, and 14 were assessed in the main analysis. The TAI success rate was 72.4% (21 out of 29 procedures). The bowel dysfunction scores at the end of the study did not differ significantly from those recorded on inclusion. A high proportion of patients (> 70%) reported that TAI was feasible with the new medical device. There were no serious adverse events or device-related adverse events. At the end of the study, 50% of the participants were willing to consider further use of the new device.

Conclusions

In patients familiar with TAI, using a new medical device incorporating an electric pump was feasible. Levels of patient satisfaction were high, especially with regard to comfort of use and a feeling of security during TAI.
Anaplasmataceae closely related to Ehrlichia chaffeensis and Neorickettsia helminthoeca from birds in Central Europe, Hungary
Authors: Hornok Sándor , Boldogh Sándor A. , Takács Nóra , Juhász Alexandra , Kontschán Jenő , Földi Dorottya , Koleszár Balázs , Morandini Pál , Gyuranecz Miklós , Szekeres Sándor
Published: April 2020

Increasing amount of data attest that (in the context of vector-borne infections) birds are not only important as hosts of blood-sucking arthropod vectors, but also as reservoirs of vector-borne pathogens. From 2015 to 2019 cadavers of 100 birds (from 45 species, nine orders) were collected in Hungary, and their organs were screened for DNA from a broad range of vector-borne bacteria with PCR and sequencing. Molecular analyses revealed the presence of Anaplasmataceae, and sequencing identified bacteria closely related to Neorickettsia helminthoeca and Ehrlichia chaffeensis in a Eurasian teal (Anas crecca) and a song thrush (Turdus philomelos), respectively. All samples were PCR negative for rickettsiae, borreliae, Francisella and Coxiella spp., as well as for piroplasms. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a Neorickettsia and an Ehrlichia sp., which belong to the phylogenetic groups of N. helminthoeca and E. chaffeensis, respectively, from Europe. The potential presence of these two vector-borne bacteria needs to be taken into account during future studies on the eco-epidemiology of Anaplasmataceae in Europe.
Evaluation of pathogenetic mutations in breast cancer predisposition genes in population-based studies conducted among Chinese women
Authors: Zeng Chenjie , Guo Xingyi , Wen Wanqing , Shi Jiajun , Long Jirong , Cai Qiuyin , Shu Xiao-Ou , Xiang Yongbin , Zheng Wei
Published: April 2020

Purpose

Limited studies have been conducted to evaluate pathogenetic mutations in breast cancer predisposition genes among Chinese women. To fully characterize germline mutations of these genes in this population, we used the whole-exome sequencing data in a population-based case–control study conducted in Shanghai, China.

Methods

We evaluated exonic, splicing, and copy number variants in 11 established and 14 candidate breast cancer predisposition genes in 831 invasive breast cancer cases and 839 controls. We identified 55 pathogenic variants, including 15 newly identified in this study.

Results

Approximately 8% of the cases and 0.6% of the cancer-free controls carried these pathogenetic variants (P = 3.05 × 10−15). Among cases, 3.7% had a BRCA2 pathogenic variant and 1.6% had a BRCA1 pathogenic variant, while 2.5% had a pathogenic variant in other genes including ATM, CHEK2, NBN, NF1, CDH1, PALB2, PTEN, TP53 as well as BARD1, BRIP, and RAD51D. Patients with BRCA1/2 pathogenic variants were more likely to have a family history of breast cancer and hormone receptor negative tumors compared with patients without pathogenic variants.

Conclusions

This study highlighted the importance of hereditary breast cancer genes in the breast cancer etiology in this understudied population. Together with previous studies in East Asian women, this study suggested a relatively more prominent role of BRCA2 compared to BRCA1. This study also provides additional evidence to design cost-efficient genetic testing among Chinese women for risk assessment and early detection of breast cancer.
Disseminating Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with a Systematic Self-care Approach to Addressing Secondary Traumatic Stress: PRACTICE What You Preach
Authors: Deblinger Esther , Pollio Elisabeth , Cooper Beth , Steer Robert A.
Published: April 2020

This pilot study evaluated the effectiveness of Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) training programs augmented with a systematic “PRACTICE What You Preach” (PWYP) self-care focus, which has trainees personally utilize the coping skills they teach their clients. Participants were 115 clinicians/supervisors who completed a PWYP TF-CBT training program. Pre- to post-training analyses documented significant increases in participants’ competency and fidelity in implementing TF-CBT (ps < .001), significantly more frequent use of coping skills including instrumental social support (p < .01), active coping (p < .001), humor (p < .01), and restraint (p < .01), and significant decreases in secondary traumatic stress (STS; p < .001). Children’s symptoms of PTSD (ps < .001) and behavior problems (p < .05) also decreased significantly. This preliminary evidence suggests that training augmented with PWYP may enhance clinicians’/supervisors’ personal coping and reduce their levels of STS without compromising treatment implementation efforts and client outcomes.
Accountability on the Fly - Accounting for Trouble in Space Operations
Authors: Almklov Petter Grytten , Halvorsen Kristin , Johansen Jens Petter
Published: April 2020

The International Space Station (ISS) is research infrastructure enabling experiments in a microgravity environment. Building on a study of one of the ground control rooms in the ISS network, this paper concentrates on low-level operators and their efforts to display accountability in situations of trouble and problem solving. While the research infrastructure around the ISS is permeated by structural (bureaucratic) approaches to accountability (routines, procedures, audits and verifications), we discuss how real-time operations require a more dynamic form of continuously (re-)established accountability in the network of operators. In time-critical situations, operators need to establish accountability ‘on the fly’ in order to achieve the necessary agency to operate and troubleshoot their system. One key resource for this is the established voice loop system for synchronous communication. With significant constraints on the form and content of speaking turns, operators need to provide appropriate and recognizable accounts that align with the needs and expectations of the network. Based on an extensive multi-method study, with a focus here on recordings of voice loop interactions, we show how accounts of trouble are designed to manage uncertainty in the larger network, while also positioning the operators as competent and reliable members of the network. Conversely, inadequate accounts create uncertainty and delayed resolution of the issue. The design of accounts on the voice loop is crucial for time-critical articulation work in a distributed collaborative setting. The interactional details on the voice loop provide insights into the production and display of accountability, particularly relevant in networked organizations in which personal relations and trust can only play a marginal role and in which temporal constraints are critical. While the research literature has explored a wide variety of dimensions related to coordination and improvisation in distributed, mediated work environments, this study contributes with insights into the functions of verbal accounts in such contexts and how they may serve to supplement formal systems of accountability.
Chalmers’ Argument from Relativity
Authors: Almäng Jan
Published: April 2020

David Chalmers has recently argued that Relativity Theory supports the notion that shapes are Twin-Earthable. In this paper this argument is challenged. I reconstruct the argument in five steps where the last step is the conclusion. I proceed to argue that one step in the argument can be interpreted in two different ways. The problem is that on the first interpretation of the step, the conclusion does not follow. And on the second interpretation of the step, it contradicts a previous step in the argument. I conclude that Relativity Theory does not entail that phenomenal and functional twins could represent different shapes.
Development of a Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS®) short form for measuring physical function in geriatric rehabilitation patients
Authors: Smit E. B. , Bouwstra H. , van der Wouden J. C. , Hertogh C. M. P. M. , Wattel E. M. , Roorda L. D. , Terwee C. B.
Published: April 2020

Purpose

To develop and test the validity of a Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS®) short form for measuring physical function of geriatric rehabilitation patients.

Methods

Experts selected items from the Dutch-Flemish PROMIS v1.2 Physical Function (PROMIS-PF) item bank and proposed new items to develop the PROMIS-PF short form for geriatric rehabilitation (PROMIS-PF-GR). Patients evaluated its content validity. Structural validity was assessed by evaluating unidimensionality (confirmatory, exploratory, and bi-factor analyses [criterion: Omega H > 0.80 and ECV > 0.60]), local independence (criterion: residual correlation < 0.20) ,and monotonicity (criterion: Hi-coefficient ≥ 0.30). Measurement invariance was assessed by evaluating Differential Item Functioning (DIF) between geriatric rehabilitation patients and people from the general population using ordinal logistic regression. Internal consistency was assessed by calculating Cronbach’s alpha (criterion: alpha ≥ 0.70).

Results

Experts selected 24 items from the PROMIS-PF item bank and proposed one new item which was not included in the short form. Patients considered the 24 items relevant and containing essential information. The PROMIS-PF-GR’s psychometric properties were evaluated in 207 patients (mean age ± SD, 80.0 ± 8.3 year; 58% female). The 24 items were found to be sufficiently unidimensional (Omega H = 0.82, ECV = 0.70), locally independent (98.7% item pairs), and monotone (all ≥ 0.32). Five items were flagged for DIF, but their impact on the total score was negligible. Cronbach’s alpha was 0.94.

Conclusion

The PROMIS-PF-GR was developed from the PROMIS-PF and has good content validity, structural validity, measurement invariance, and internal consistency in Dutch geriatric rehabilitation patients. We recommend to confirm the content validity of the PROMIS-PF-GR in other countries.
Multidisciplinary consensus statement on the clinical management of patients with pancreatic cancer
Authors: Martin-Perez E. , Domínguez-Muñoz J. E. , Botella-Romero F. , Cerezo L. , Matute Teresa F. , Serrano T. , Vera R.
Published: April 2020

Pancreatic cancer (PC) remains one of the most aggressive tumors with an increasing incidence rate and reduced survival. Although surgical resection is the only potentially curative treatment for PC, only 15–20% of patients are resectable at diagnosis. To select the most appropriate treatment and thus improve outcomes, the diagnostic and therapeutic strategy for each patient with PC should be discussed within a multidisciplinary expert team. Clinical decision-making should be evidence-based, considering the staging of the tumor, the performance status and preferences of the patient. The aim of this guideline is to provide practical and evidence-based recommendations for the management of PC.
Handling of Sore Noses: a Proof of Concept
Authors: Wurzer-Materna Nadine , Thieme Uta , Werdier Dieter , Meiser Peter
Published: April 2020

Dryness and soreness of the anterior part of the nose frequently occur and hinder patients’ quality of life. Nasal ointments are broadly applied in such cases, bringing about at least subjective improvement of clinical signs and symptoms. The mode of action of such treatments is occlusion of the wounded skin parts, which is commonly already achieved by the ointment base. However, the clinical benefit of such treatments has yet to be proven. In this trial, 100 patients suffering from soreness of the anterior part of the nose were randomized to receive either an anhydrous nasal ointment or no local treatment. Area under the curve built from daily average scores of the symptoms sensation of dryness, soreness, scaliness, and pain, evaluated by the patients on a daily basis over a period of 9 days, was the predefined primary endpoint of this trial. Symptoms were furthermore assessed by the physicians, and patients allocated to the treatment group assessed their perceptions on the use of the nasal ointment on the initiation and the close-out visit. Clinical signs and symptoms improved significantly between the initial and close-out visits in both ointment and control groups. However, treatment with the nasal ointment proved to be significantly superior to no therapy. Both evaluation of patients’ perceptions of the treatment and tolerability assessment substantiate the safe and efficacious use of the tested nasal ointment.