bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Approaches, applications, and future directions for hyperspectral vegetation studies: An emphasis on yield‐limiting factors in wheat
Authors: Bruning Brooke , Berger Bettina , Lewis Megan , Liu Huajian , Garnett Trevor
Published: May 2020

Hyperspectral instruments acquire spectral information in many narrow, contiguous bands throughout the visible, near‐infrared and shortwave regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Hyperspectral techniques are becoming very powerful tools for characterizing plants and nondestructively quantifying their chemical and physical properties because of their ability to provide layered trait information within the same spectral region. However, to effectively make use of hyperspectral sensing, an understanding of the theory behind these techniques, the power, and the limitations of the resulting data is required. This article presents an overview of hyperspectral sensing in regard to principles, instrumentation, processing methods, and current applications, specifically focusing on the quantification of yield‐limiting factors in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). The spectral properties of plants across the electromagnetic spectrum are first described to achieve a better understanding of plant–light interactions. Basic information about different imaging approaches is provided as are the necessary considerations for the analysis of hyperspectral data. Some of the major technical challenges associated with hyperspectral imaging as well as future directions are discussed. Finally, as an example crop, the use of hyperspectral techniques for quantifying yield‐limiting factors in wheat is presented.
Fatigue and activity after stroke. Secondary results from the Life After Stroke study
Authors: Braaten Ragnhild Sunde , Askim Torunn , Gunnes Mari , Indredavik Bent
Published: May 2020

Objectives

The aim of this study was to describe how the prevalence of fatigue changed from the subacute phase to the chronic phase after stroke, and to investigate how activity was associated with fatigue among participants included in the randomized controlled multicentre‐study Life After STroke (LAST).

Methods

The present study represents secondary analysis based on data from the LAST study. One‐hundred‐and‐forty‐five patients with mild and moderate stroke (mean (SD) age: 71.5 (10.5) years, 57.2% males) recruited from St. Olav's University Hospital were included. Fatigue was assessed by the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS‐7) at inclusion, 3 months after stroke, and at follow‐up 18 months later. activPAL was used to measure activity at follow‐up.

Results

A total of 46 (31.7%) participants reported fatigue at inclusion and 43 (29.7%) at follow‐up (p = .736). In the univariable regression analysis, sedentary behaviour, walking and sedentary bouts were significantly associated with fatigue (p ≤ .015), whereas only time spent walking was significantly associated with fatigue in the multivariable regression analysis (p = .017).

Conclusions

The present study showed that fatigue is a common symptom after stroke and that the prevalence of fatigue remained unchanged from the subacute to the chronic phase. The study also showed that increased time spent walking was strongly related to lower fatigue, while no such associations were found between the other activity categories and fatigue.
A novel plant pathogen management tool for vector management
Authors: Stillson Patrick T , Bloom Elias H , Illán Javier G , Szendrei Zsofia
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Decision support systems often focus on insect control due to direct damage. However, when insects vector plant pathogens, these decision support systems must be tailored to disease management. However, a decision system that links diagnosticians to vector management is lacking and complicated by patterns of insect abundance over space and time. Here, we describe an approach that integrated monitoring of an insect pest (aster leafhopper; Macrosteles quadrilineatus, Forbes) that vectors aster yellows phytoplasma (Candidatus Phytoplasma spp.), with rapid disease diagnostics and web‐based text messaging in two crops, carrots and celery.

RESULTS

From 2014–2019, a total of 8,343 aster leafhoppers were collected, 99 of these were infected with phytoplasma. Text messaging reduced the number of infected leafhoppers. When we compared infected leafhopper density across crops, their temporal patterns were most similar at a 2‐week delay. Comparisons within crop indicated that in celery uninfected and infected leafhopper density was most similar at a 2‐week delay, but there was no similar pattern in carrots. Leafhopper density and infectivity were not similar beyond individual farms.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that farmers should account for these temporal and spatial patterns when managing leafhoppers infected with aster yellows phytoplasma to improve pest management. By combining extensive monitoring, with rapid disease diagnostics, and text messaging, we demonstrate the value of our decision support tool. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Indoxacarb‐loaded fluorescent mesoporous silica nanoparticles for effective control of Plutella xylostella L. with decreased detoxification enzymes activities
Authors: Bilal Muhammad , Xu Chunli , Cao Lidong , Zhao Pengyue , Cao Chong , Li Fengmin , Huang Qiliang
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Plutella xylostella L. is a cosmopolitan lepidopteron insect pest for numerous vegetables and crops. The extensive use of insecticides has resulted in the emergence of resistance in P. xylostella. Thus, development of innovative strategies to overcome the insecticide resistance and control P. xylostella effectively is highly desirable. Inspired by the concept and breakthrough of nanomedical strategies to treat multidrug resistance, nanotechnology may find potential application in overcoming or delaying insecticide resistance.

RESULTS

Carbon dots‐embedded fluorescent mesoporous silica nanoparticles (FL‐SiO2 NPs) were successfully developed. Indoxacarb‐loaded nanoparticles (IN@FL‐SiO2 NPs) were facilely prepared with loading content of 24%. The release of indoxacarb from IN@FL‐SiO2 NPs was pH sensitive. IN@FL‐SiO2 NPs exhibited better insecticidal activity against P. xylostella than indoxacarb technical under the same doses of active ingredient applied. Moreover, the activities of detoxification enzymes including GST, CarE, and P450 of P. xylostella were suppressed by treatment with IN@FL‐SiO2 NPs. Furthermore, the entry of FL‐SiO2 NPs into the midgut of P. xylostella was confirmed by CLSM observation.

CONCLUSIONS

Although there is no absolute correlation between the enzyme activity and resistance, the change in corresponding enzyme activity can afford valuable information on the resistance situation. IN@FL‐SiO2 NPs treated P. xylostella displayed higher mortality, along with decreased enzymes activities, which indicates that nano‐based delivery system of insecticide could be potentially applied in insecticide resistance management. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Air Stable, High‐Efficiency, Pt‐Based Halide Perovskite Solar Cells with Long Carrier Lifetimes
Authors: Schwartz Dakota , Murshed Rubaiya , Larson Harry , Usprung Benedikt , Soltanmohamad Sina , Pandey Ramesh , Barnard Edward S. , Rockett Angus , Hartmann Thomas , Castelli Ivano E. , Bansal Shubhra
Published: May 2020

The search for Pb‐free perovskite materials continues with limited success to find a suitable replacement for Pb with outstanding optoelectronic properties. Herein, Pb‐free inorganic halide perovskite Cs2PtI6 with excellent absorption coefficient, long minority carrier lifetime, and optical bandgap of 1.4 eV is reported. Atmospheric precursor‐based solution processing results in high‐quality Cs2PtI6 with absorption coefficient of for photon energies of >1.5 eV and high minority carrier lifetimes of >2 μs indicating low defect density in the material. Superstrate n–i–p solar cells processed with the structure F:SnO2/CdS/Cs2PtI6/carbon/Cu show promising device efficiency of 13.88%. These planar devices processed under atmospheric conditions show low Voc deficit (<0.3 V) without any hysteresis in forward and reverse scans indicating low trap densities. Pt offers an excellent model system for the replacement of Pb due to high atomic number, oxidation resistance, and stability. Cs2PtI6 is an atmospherically stable phase under AM1.5G at 65 °C for 1000 h.
Parents, individualism and education: three paradigms and four countries
Authors: Fevre Ralph , Guimarães Isabel , Zhao Wei
Published: May 2020

The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989) is an important indicator of the increased global importance of education. It defines the goal of education at the level of the child rather than the state, the community or household. The requirement that each child be treated as an individual who can expect to see their ‘personality, talents and mental and physical abilities’ fully developed, is an example of the individualism which features in three important theoretical paradigms for understanding the rise of education and training. We compare accounts of the global growth of education produced by functionalism, neoinstitutionalism and political economy with the help of qualitative research on children’s experience of parental influences. The research is drawn from semi‐structured interviews with millennial graduates in Portugal, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United States. It reveals weaknesses in the paradigms which are related to the way each theorises individualism and the role it plays in parental influence on education. The functionalist and neoinstitutionalist conceptions of individualism limit the usefulness of these paradigms for understanding changes in the way families around the world prepare children for education. The political economy paradigm is more promising; however, an approach which identifies only one, neoliberal, version of individualism has limited purchase on international differences in parental influences and the way these influences are changing. An approach which can draw on the contrast between a cognitive individualism associated with neoliberalism, and sentimental individualism which originates in social movements, is more promising.
The basic reproduction number of SARS‐CoV‐2 in Wuhan is about to die out, how about the rest of the World?
Authors: Rahman Bootan , Sadraddin Evar , Porreca Annamaria
Published: May 2020

The virologically confirmed cases of a new coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) in the world are rapidly increasing, leading epidemiologists and mathematicians to construct transmission models that aim to predict the future course of the current pandemic. The transmissibility of a virus is measured by the basic reproduction number (
R0), which measures the average number of new cases generated per typical infectious case. This review highlights the articles reporting rigorous estimates and determinants of COVID‐19
R0 for the most affected areas. Moreover, the mean of all estimated
R0 with median and interquartile range is calculated. According to these articles, the basic reproduction number of the virus epicentre Wuhan has now declined below the important threshold value of 1.0 since the disease emerged. Ongoing modelling will inform the transmission rates seen in the new epicentres outside of China, including Italy, Iran and South Korea.
Influence of altitude on tropical marine habitat classification using imagery from fixed‐wing, water‐landing UAVs
Authors: Ellis Sophia L. , Taylor Michelle L. , Schiele Melissa , Letessier Tom B.
Published: May 2020

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are cost‐effective remote sensing tools useful for generating very high‐resolution (VHR) aerial imagery. Habitat maps generated from UAV imagery are a fundamental component of marine spatial planning, essential for the designation and governance of marine protected areas (MPAs). We investigated whether UAV survey altitude affects habitat classification performance and the classification accuracy of thematic maps from a tropical shallow water environment. We conducted repeated UAV flights at 75, 85, and 110 m, using a fixed‐wing UAV on the Turneffe Atoll, Belize. Flights were ground truthed with snorkel surveys. Images were mosaiced to form orthomosaics and transformed into thematic maps through semi‐automatic object‐based image analysis (OBIA). Three subset areas (4000 m2, 17 000 m2 and 17 000 m2) from two cayes on the atoll were selected to investigate the effect of survey altitude. A linear regression demonstrated that for every 1 m increase in survey altitude, there was a ~1% decrease in the overall classification accuracy. A low survey altitude of 75 m produced a higher classification accuracy for thematic maps and increased the representation of mangrove, seagrass and sand. The variability in classified cover was driven by altitude, although the direction and extent of this relationship was specific to each class. For coral and sea, classified cover decreased with increased altitude. Mangrove classified cover was non‐sensitive to altitude changes, demonstrating a lesser need for a consistent survey altitude. Sand and seagrass had a greater sensitivity to altitude, due to classified cover variability between altitudes. Our findings suggest that survey altitude should be minimized when classifying tropical marine environments (coral, seagrass) and, given that most fixed‐wing UAVs are restricted to a minimum altitude of 70 m, we recommend an altitude of 75 m. Survey altitude should be a major consideration when targeting habitats with greater sensitivity to altitude variability.
Orthogonally Regulated Mechanical Strength and Molecular Delivery Capabilities Achieved in a Double Network Hydrogel Matrix
Authors: Teng Kaixuan , Luan Xinglong , An Qi , Zhao Yantao , Hu Xiantong , Zhang Shuting , Zhuang Jialin , Li Xiaobo , Lu Limei , Zhang Yihe
Published: May 2020

Specific mechanical properties and molecular delivery capacities are important parameters in biomedical materials. However, in most materials, these two properties are intertwined and orthogonal adjustments of each of these properties remains difficult. In this report we propose a hydrogel design strategy that permits orthogonal adjustment of the mechanical strength and molecular delivery properties. Our strategy involves employing a double‐network hydrogel whereby the PAM network is responsible for adjusting the mechanical strength, and a CD‐laden network tunes the molecular delivery speeds taking advantage of the affinity between the diffusive molecules and the matrix. The mechanical strengths between 50 and 350 Pa were varied in the hydrogel matrix, and molecular deliveries with times varying between 200 min and 133 h were achieved. A complex hydrogel matrix permits delivery of three molecules with dramatically different release profiles. Cell culturing results show the sensitivity of the cell's response to the tuning of mechanical strength and delivery efficiency. We believe that our hydrogel matrix design concept broadens the design scope and functions of biomedical materials.
Polymerization and Copolymerization Reactions of Light Alkenes with Postmetallocene Catalysts Containing Titanium Complexes with Bidentate Pinacol Ligands
Authors: Rishina Laura A. , Kissin Yury V. , Lalayan Svetlana S. , Gagieva Svetlana Ch. , Tuskaev Vladislav A. , Krasheninnikov Vadim G. , Grinev Vitaly G.
Published: May 2020

Two Ti complexes with bidentate ligands derived from pinacol and perfluoropinacol and activated with a binary Al(C2H5)2Cl ‐ Mg(C4H9)2 cocatalyst are efficient catalysts for polymerization of lightest alkenes, ethylene and propylene, and for their copolymerization. They produce linear polyethylene of moderate molecular weight and essentially atactic amorphous polypropylene. Ethylene/propylene copolymers prepared with these catalysts are compositionally uniform resins with a very low crystallinity degree which can be used as synthetic EPM rubbers.
Carbon Nanosheet Anode for Sodium‐Ion Storage and Its Application in Sodium‐Ion Hybrid Capacitors
Authors: Chen Li , Duan Wenhui , Yang Bingjun , Liu Bao , Li Hongxia , Lang Junwei , Chen Jiangtao
Published: May 2020

In this study, sodium ion hybrid capacitors (SIHCs) constructed by using battery‐type carbon nanosheet (CNS) as anode and capacitive activated carbon (AC) as cathode are reported. The CNSs with large interlayer spacing were deposited on Na2CO3 powder by using chemical vapor deposition method. The CNS anode for sodium ion storage exhibits outstanding rate capability (138 mAh g−1 at 10 A g−1, 63 % retention of the capacity at 0.05 A g−1) and excellent long‐term cyclability at 10 A g−1 after 12500 cycles. Benifting from high performance of anodes abovemensioned, the assembled SIHC based on CNS and AC, operated in a voltage window of 1.0∼4.0 V, delivers a high specific energy of 135 Wh kg−1 at 250 W kg−1 and a maximum power of 25 kW kg−1 with the output 69 Wh kg−1.
Catalytic Pyrolysis of 2‐Chloro‐1,1‐difluoroethane to Synthesize Vinylidene Fluoride over the Potassium‐Promoted Carbon Catalysts
Authors: Yuan Juanjuan , Hong Zhe , Xi Zhiwen , Jia Wenzhi , Huang Zhi , Li Junhui , Zhu Zhirong
Published: May 2020

Vinylidene fluoride (VDF) is a crucial monomer for manufacturing polyvinyl fluoride. Catalytic pyrolysis is an ideal route to dispose of 2‐chloro‐1,1‐difluoroethane (HCFC‐142) byproduct derived from the industrial manufacture of 1‐chloro‐1,1‐difluoroethane (HCFC‐142b). The activated carbon catalysts treated by nitric acid and further supported by potassium, were employed to catalytic pyrolysis of HCFC‐142 to synthesize VDF. The prepared K/C catalysts were characterized by BET, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), SEM‐EDX, Raman, NH3‐ and CO2‐ Temperature Programmed Desorption (TPD). With the increase of potassium loading, the surface areas of K/C catalysts reduce gradually, whereas their amounts of surface base sites increase. When the potassium loading reaches up to 1.0%, the 1 K/C catalyst possesses the superior catalytic performance, with the highest conversion of 47.7% and selectivity to VDF of 48.4% at 600 °C. The potassium species improved the catalytic performance of activated carbon is associated with the suitable amounts of surface base sites.
A Flexible Film with SnS2 Nanoparticles Chemically Anchored on 3D‐Graphene Framework for High Areal Density and High Rate Sodium Storage
Authors: Sang Zhiyuan , Yan Xiao , Su Dong , Ji Huiming , Wang Sihui , Dou Shi Xue , Liang Ji
Published: May 2020

The design and construction of flexible electrodes that can function at high rates and high areal capacities are essential regarding the practical application of flexible sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) and other energy storage devices, which remains significantly challenging by far. Herein, a flexible and 3D porous graphene nanosheet/SnS2 (3D‐GNS/SnS2) film is reported as a high‐performance SIB electrode. In this hybrid film, the GNS/SnS2 microblocks serve as pillars to assemble into a 3D porous and interconnected framework, enabling fast electron/ion transport; while the GNS bridges the GNS/SnS2 microblocks into a flexible framework to provide satisfactorily mechanical strength and long‐range conductivity. Moreover, the SnS2 nanocrystals, which chemically bond with GNS, provide sufficient active sites for Na storage and ensure the cycling stability. Consequently, this flexible 3D‐GNS/SnS2 film exhibits excellent Na‐storage performances, especially in terms of high areal capacity (2.45 mAh cm−2) and high rates with superior stability (385 mAh g−1 at 1.0 A g−1 over 1000 cycles with ≈100% retention). A flexible SIB full cell using this anode exhibits high and stable performance under various bending situations. Thus, this work provide a feasible route to prepare flexible electrodes with high practical viability for not only SIBs but also other energy storage devices.
Remarkable Piezophoto Coupling Catalysis Behavior of BiOX/BaTiO3 (X = Cl, Br, Cl0.166Br0.834) Piezoelectric Composites
Authors: Zhou Xiaofeng , Yan Fei , Wu Shuanghao , Shen Bo , Zeng Huarong , Zhai Jiwei
Published: May 2020

Polarization field engineering of piezoelectric materials is considered as an advisable strategy in fine‐tuning photocatalytic performance which has drawn much attention recently. However, the efficient charge separation that determines the photocatalytic reactivities of these materials is quite restricted. Herein, a judicious combination of piezoelectric and photocatalytic performances of BiOX/BaTiO3 (X = Cl, Br, Cl0.166Br0.834) to enable a high piezophotocatalytic activity is demonstrated. Under the synergic advantages of chemical potential difference and piezoelectric potential difference in BiOX/BaTiO3 composites, the photoinduced carriers recombination is largely halted, which directly contributes to the significantly promoted piezophotocatalytic activity of piezoelectric composites. Inspiringly, the BiOBr/BaTiO3 composites under light irradiation with auxiliary ultrasonic activation result in an ultrahigh and stable photocatalytic performance, which is much higher than the total of those by isolated photocatalysis and piezocatalysis, and can rival current excellent photocatalytic system. In fact, the theoretical piezoelectric potential difference of BiOBr/BaTiO3 composites reaches 100 mV, which far exceeds the pure BaTiO3 of 31.21 mV and BiOBr of 30 mV, respectively. First, fabrication of BiOX/BaTiO3 piezoelectric composites and its remarkable piezophoto coupling catalysis behavior lays new ground for developing high‐efficiency piezoelectric photocatalysts in purifying wastewater, killing bacteria, and other piezophototronic processes.
Rationalizing the Effect of Oxygen Vacancy on Oxygen Electrocatalysis in Li–O2 Battery
Authors: Li Jiabao , Shu Chaozhu , Liu Chunhai , Chen Xianfei , Hu Anjun , Long Jianping
Published: May 2020

Albeit the effectiveness of surface oxygen vacancy in improving oxygen redox reactions in Li–O2 battery, the underpinning reason behind this improvement remains ambiguous. Herein, the concentration of oxygen vacancy in spinel NiCo2O4 is first regulated via magnetron sputtering and its relationship with catalytic activity is comprehensively studied in Li–O2 battery based on experiment and density functional theory (DFT) calculation. The positive effect posed by oxygen vacancy originates from the up shifted antibond orbital relative to Fermi level (Ef), which provides extra electronic state around Ef, eventually enhancing oxygen adsorption and charge transfer during oxygen redox reactions. However, with excessive oxygen vacancy, the negative effect emerges because the metal ions are mostly reduced to low valence based on the electrical neutral principle, which not only destabilizes the crystal structure but also weakens the ability to capture electrons from the antibond orbit of Li2O2, leading to poor catalytic activity for oxygen evolution reaction (OER).
The rise and fall of worldwide income inequality, 1820–2035
Authors: Connors Joseph , Gwartney James , Montesinos‐Yufa Hugo
Published: May 2020

The development process and the demographic changes that are a central element of it explain both the nearly two centuries of increasing income inequality prior to 2000 and the reversal of this trend that followed. There are at least four phases of the development process: (1) Malthusian pre‐development, (2) initial growth, (3) improved productivity, and (4) receding growth. Prior to the industrial revolution, the entire world was in the Malthusian Phase 1. During 1820–1950, about 20 countries, mostly in Western Europe, North America, and Oceania, moved out of Phase 1 and began to grow more rapidly. But, per capita income levels in the rest of the world continued to stagnate and worldwide income inequality widened continuously for at least 150 years following the Industrial Revolution. Around 1960, developing countries began to escape the Malthusian trap and move into Phase 2 of development. By the latter part of the 20th century, many developing countries were achieving growth rates equal to or greater than the high‐income countries, slowing the rise in inequality. By 2000–2015 most developing countries were in either Phases 2 or 3 of development, while most of the high‐income countries were moving into Phase 4, leading to a sharp reduction in worldwide income inequality. The recent reductions in worldwide income inequality are likely to continue in the near term because of the continuation of the more favorable demographic changes in developing compared to high‐income countries.
European Union and National Responses to Migrants with Irregular Status: Is the Fortress Slowly Crumbling?
Authors: Delvino Nicola
Published: May 2020

This chapter outlines the evolution of EU and national legislation and policies responding to the presence of irregular migrants in Europe. It describes how the legal and policy responses of the EU and its member states have evolved around a predominantly ‘exclusionary approach’ towards irregularly-staying migrants that has contributed to building ‘Fortress Europe’. Besides the evolution of the EU immigration acquis, this chapter explores national developments in policy domains other than immigration legislation, including criminal law and social policies, aimed at marginalising irregular migrants to encourage their departure. However, as totally exclusionary policies have not succeeded in their final goal of eradicating the presence of irregular migrants, European countries have partially re-thought their approach to take account of that presence and the social needs arising from it. Against an over-arching, continuing exclusionary focus in law and policy, this chapter identifies a more recent counter-trend of policies slowly but increasingly showing instances of inclusion of irregular migrants, such as instances of de-criminalisation of irregular migration, extension of access to services, and victim support for migrants with irregular status.
KKLT without AdS
Authors: Linde Andrei
Published: May 2020

Abstract

According to the KKLT scenario, metastable dS vacua are formed as a result of uplifting of supersymmetric AdS vacua by

$$ \overline{D3} $$

D
3

¯

branes. I describe an extended version of this scenario where supersymmetric AdS vacua do not exist, and metastable dS vacua appear after an uplift from a state where the potential of the volume modulus in the absence of

$$ \overline{D3} $$

D
3

¯

branes would be unbounded below. This mechanism may considerably strengthen vacuum stabilization in the early universe.
GSTM1 null and GSTT1 null: predictors of cisplatin-caused acute ototoxicity measured by DPOAEs
Authors: Budai Barna , Prekopp Péter , Noszek László , Kovács Erika R. , Szőnyi Márta , Erdélyi Dániel J. , Bíró Krisztina , Géczi Lajos
Published: May 2020

Preventing the ototoxicity caused by cisplatin is a major issue yet to be overcome. Useful preventive treatments will soon be available. Consequently, the next step is to filter out those patients who are more prone to develop ototoxicity. The aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate potential predictive markers of acute ototoxicity as determined by measures of distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs). A total of 118 patients from our previous DPOAE analysis were put under evaluation. Ototoxic cases were divided according to unilateral (n = 45) or bilateral (n = 23) involvement. The clinicopathological characteristics, hearing test results, germline GSTT1, GSTM1, and GSTP1 polymorphisms, and common laboratory parameters were included in the new analysis. Univariate and multivariate statistical tests were applied. According to multivariate logistic regression, the only independent predictor of unilateral ototoxicity (vs. non-affected) was a GSTM1 null genotype (OR = 4.52; 95%CI = 1.3–16.3), while for bilateral damage, the GSTT1 null genotype (OR = 4.76; 1.4–16) was a predictor. The higher starting serum urea level was characteristic of bilateral ototoxicity; however, the only independent marker of bilateral (vs. unilateral) ototoxicity was the presence of GSTT1 null genotype (OR = 2.44; 1.23–4.85). Different processes, involving the GSTM1 and GSTT1 genotypes, respectively, govern the development of acute unilateral and bilateral ototoxicities. Further research is needed to clarify these processes. Based on the above findings, patients whom are at risk may be selected for otoprotective therapies.

Key messages

The acute ototoxicity was determined by DPOAE in 118 testicular cancer patients.

GSTM1 null was the only marker of unilateral ototoxicity (vs. non-affected).

The only marker of bilateral hearing loss (vs. non-affected) was the GSTT1 null.

GSTT1 null was also the marker of bilateral vs. unilateral ototoxicity.

A high-risk group may be selected for new, individualized otoprotective treatment.
Necrotizing Fasciitis: A Predictable Burden in Rural Kenya
Authors: Lunar Joyce , Ranketi Sinkeet S. , Owino Beverly , Oloo Mark , Parker Robert K.
Published: May 2020

Background

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a devastating disease with substantial morbidity and mortality. Poor outcomes are attributed to delayed diagnosis and management. Tenwek Hospital, a teaching and referral center in rural Kenya, manages many cases despite variable resources. We aimed to understand the burden of NF.

Methods

All patients with admission NF diagnosis who presented in 2017 were reviewed for demographics, investigations, treatment, and outcomes. The primary outcome was unfavorable outcome defined as in‐hospital mortality or amputation. Secondary outcomes were discharge diagnosis of NF and cost. Laboratory Risk Indicator for Necrotizing Fasciitis (LRINEC) score was calculated. Logistic regression models were utilized to assess the impact of risk factors.

Results

Sixty‐seven patients were identified with an average age of 49.2 (±21) years. Medical comorbidities were present in 48% and history of trauma in 58%. Discharge diagnosis of NF occurred in 61% (N = 41). Overall, mortality occurred in 10% (N = 7) of patients with an initial NF diagnosis. At discharge, patients without NF had favorable outcomes in 96% (N = 25) compared to 78% (N = 32) with NF (p = 0.043). Final NF diagnosis costs 122,098 Kenyan Shillings more (95% confidence interval 36,142–208,054) than non‐NF diagnosis (p value = 0.006). Factors associated with unfavorable outcome include diabetes mellitus, any comorbidity, increased heart rate, fever, hyperglycemia, anemia, and discharge NF diagnosis. Increased LRINEC score was associated with discharge NF diagnosis (p = 0.0006) and unfavorable outcome (p = 0.0157).

Conclusions

Patients with NF in rural Kenya experience delays to presentation, unfavorable outcomes, and substantial costs. Certain factors, including LRINEC score, help predict diagnosis and outcome.
Verification Study of Residual Activity Measurements After Yttrium-90 Radioembolization with Glass Microspheres
Authors: Ebbers S. C. , Kunnen B. , van Nierop B. J. , Bemelmans J. L. M. , Krijger G. C. , Lam M. G. E. H. , Braat A. J. A. T.
Published: May 2020

Objective

After yttrium-90 (90Y) radioembolization, residual activity and its consequences for dosimetric calculations are often not reported. The manufacturer for glass microspheres prescribes standard residual activity measurements by a survey meter, but the validity lacks evidence. This study aims to verify the accuracy of the survey meter approach for measuring residual activity of glass microspheres after treatment with glass microspheres.

Methods

To validate the accuracy of the survey meter approach, the measured residual activity of glass microspheres by survey meter was compared with measurements by PET. A sample of these waste containers was also measured by dose calibrator to confirm the accuracy of the PET.

Results

Twenty-four waste containers from glass microsphere treatments were prospectively scanned with 90Y-PET/CT. Bland–Altman plots showed substantial disagreement in residual activity measured by survey meter versus the residual activity measured by PET and dose calibrator, whereas the correlation between PET and dose calibrator was excellent (ρ = 0.99).

Conclusion

This study found a significant disagreement between the residual activities measured by the survey meter, compared to measurements by PET and dose calibrator. If relatively high amounts of residual activity are encountered using the exposure rate measurement with a survey meter, additional quantification should be considered using either PET/CT or a dose calibrator measurement.
Predictive and reactive changes in antioxidant defence system in a heterothermic rodent
Authors: Jefimow Małgorzata , Przybylska-Piech Anna S. , Wojciechowski Michał S.
Published: May 2020

Living in a seasonal environment requires periodic changes in animal physiology, morphology and behaviour. Winter phenotype of small mammals living in Temperate and Boreal Zones may differ considerably from summer one in multiple traits that enhance energy conservation or diminish energy loss. However, there is a considerable variation in the development of winter phenotype among individuals in a population and some, representing the non-responding phenotype (non-responders), are insensitive to shortening days and maintain summer phenotype throughout a year. Differences in energy management associated with the development of different winter phenotypes should be accompanied by changes in antioxidant defence capacity, leading to effective protection against oxidative stress resulting from increased heat production in winter. To test it, we analysed correlation of winter phenotypes of Siberian hamsters (Phodopus sungorus) with facultative non-shivering thermogenesis capacity (NST) and oxidative status. We found that in both phenotypes acclimation to winter-like conditions increased NST capacity and improved antioxidant defence resulting in lower oxidative stress (OS) than in summer, and females had always lower OS than males. Although NST capacity did not correlate with the intensity of OS, shortly after NST induction responders had lower OS than non-responders suggesting more effective mechanisms protecting from detrimental effects of reactive oxygen metabolites generated during rewarming from torpor. We suggest that seasonal increase in antioxidant defence is programmed endogenously to predictively prevent oxidative stress in winter. At the same time reactive upregulation of antioxidant defence protects against reactive oxygen species generated during NST itself. It suggests that evolution of winter phenotype with potentially harmful characteristics was counterbalanced by the development of protective mechanisms allowing for the maintenance of phenotypic adjustments to seasonally changing environment.
Improving forecasts of El Niño diversity: a nonlinear forcing singular vector approach
Authors: Tao Lingjiang , Duan Wansuo , Vannitsem Stephane
Published: May 2020

Observations indicate that two types of El Niño events exist: one is the EP-El Niño with a warming center in the eastern tropical Pacific, and the other is the CP-El Niño with large positive SST anomalies in the central tropical Pacific. Most current numerical models are not able to accurately identify the different types of El Niño. The present study examines the dynamic properties of the ENSO forecast system NFSV-ICM which combines an intermediate-complexity ENSO model (ICM) with a nonlinear forcing singular vector (NFSV)-based tendency perturbation forecast model. This system is able to distinguish the different types of El Niño in predictions. Hindcasts show that the NFSV-ICM system is able to capture the horizontal distribution of the SST anomalies and their amplitudes in the mature phase of not only EP-El Niño events but also CP-El Niño events. The NFSV-ICM is also able to describe the evolution of SST anomalies associated with the two types of El Niño up to at least two-season lead times, while the corresponding forecasts with the ICM are limited to, at most, one-season lead times. These improvements are associated with the modifications of the atmospheric and ocean processes described by the ICM through the NFSV-based tendency perturbations. In particular, the thermocline and zonal advection feedback are strongly modified, and the conditions of the emergence of both EP- and CP-El Niño events are improved. The NFSV-ICM therefore provides a useful platform for studying ENSO dynamics and predictability associated with El Niño diversities.
People have modest, not good, insight into their face recognition ability: a comparison between self-report questionnaires
Authors: Matsuyoshi Daisuke , Watanabe Katsumi
Published: May 2020

Whether people have insight into their face recognition ability has been intensely debated in recent studies using self-report measures. Although some studies showed people’s good insight, other studies found the opposite. The discrepancy might be caused by the difference in the questionnaire used and/or the bias induced using an extreme group such as suspected prosopagnosics. To resolve this issue, we examined the relationship between the two representative self-report face recognition questionnaires (Survey, N = 855) and then the extent to which the questionnaires differ in their relationship with face recognition performance (Experiment, N = 180) in normal populations, which do not include predetermined extreme groups. We found a very strong correlation (r = 0.82), a dominant principal component (explains > 90% of the variance), and comparable reliability between the questionnaires. Although these results suggest a strong common factor underlying them, the residual variance is not negligible (33%). Indeed, the follow-up experiment showed that both questionnaires have significant but moderate correlations with actual face recognition performance, and that the correlation was stronger for the Kennerknecht’s questionnaire (r =  − 0.38) than for the PI20 (r =  − 0.23). These findings not only suggest people’s modest insight into their face recognition ability, but also urge researchers and clinicians to carefully assess whether a questionnaire is suitable for estimating an individual’s face recognition ability.
Systematic review: the effect of right hemicolectomy for cancer on postoperative bowel function
Authors: Hope C. , Reilly J. , Lund J. , Andreyev HJN
Published: May 2020

Background

Right-sided cancer accounts for approximately 30% of bowel cancer in women and 22% in men. Colonic resection can cause changes in bowel function which affect daily activity. The aims are to assess the impact of right hemicolectomy for cancer on bowel function and to identify useful treatment modalities for managing bowel dysfunction after right hemicolectomy.

Method

The review was conducted in line with PRISMA. Eligible studies evaluated the impact of right hemicolectomy on bowel function in those treated for colorectal neoplasia or assessed the effect of surgical technique or other intervention on bowel function after right hemicolectomy. Right hemicolectomy for inflammatory bowel disease or benign cases only were excluded. Articles were limited to studies on human subjects written in English published between January 2008 and December 2018.

Results

The searches identified 7531 articles. Nine articles met the inclusion criteria, of which eight were cohort studies and one was a randomised trial. Loose stool, increased bowel frequency and/or nocturnal defaecation following right-sided colectomy occurs in approximately one in five patients. Some of these symptoms may improve spontaneously with time. Bile acid malabsorption and/or small bowel bacterial overgrowth may be the cause for chronic dysfunction. Some studies report that no or little difference in outcome between right-sided and rectal resections likely suggests poor function after right-sided resection.

Conclusion

Right hemicolectomy can result in changes to bowel function. Patients should be counselled preoperatively, and follow-up should be designed to identify and effectively treat significantly altered bowel function.
Phänomenologisch-hermeneutische Struktur- und Prozessdiagnostik in der Existenzanalyse
Authors: Görtz Astrid
Published: May 2020

Die neuere Existenzanalyse nach Alfried Längle ist durch die Entwicklung theoretischer Modelle auf Basis der existenzanalytischen Anthropologie gekennzeichnet, nämlich des Strukturmodells der existentiellen Grundmotivationen und des Prozessmodells der Personalen Existenzanalyse. Beide Theoreme stellen eine Grundlage für die Diagnose von personalen Ressourcen und Defiziten der Patient_innen am Beginn sowie im Laufe des Therapie-Prozesses dar. Entsprechend der phänomenologischen Grundhaltung der Existenzanalyse werden jegliche Erkenntnisse und Diagnosen während des therapeutischen Prozesses im Sinne einer phänomenologischen Epoché laufend überprüft und weiterentwickelt. Im vorliegenden Beitrag soll anhand einer Einzelfall-Analyse veranschaulicht werden, wie eine sowohl struktur- als auch prozessorientierte existenzanalytische Diagnostik den therapeutischen Prozess begleitet und nicht zuletzt eine systematische Erforschung der therapeutischen Wirkelemente im Wege qualitativer Einzelfallforschung ermöglicht.
Kommunale Finanzen in der Corona-Krise: Effekte und Reaktionen
Authors: Freier Ronny , Geißler René
Published: May 2020

Die kommende Rezession hat über die Gewerbe- und Einkommensteuer direkte Auswirkungen auf die Gemeindefinanzen. Infolge der unterjährigen Vorauszahlungen werden diese Rückgänge bereits kurzfristig wirksam. Die Autoren schätzen die finanziellen Effekte unter Berücksichtigung von Änderungen der Gewerbesteuerumlage und regional unterschiedlicher Wirtschaftskraft. Die Länder sollten bestimmte Regelungen des Haushaltsrechts befristet aussetzen, um finanzielle Blockaden und prozyklische Haushaltspolitik der Kommunen zu verhindern, sie sollten die Ausfälle der Gewerbesteuer ausgleichen und somit verlässliche Haushaltsplanungen ermöglichen. Da die Wirtschaftskrise unterschiedlich wirkt und die Kommunen über unterschiedliche Rücklagen verfügen, sind regionale Differenzierungen der Hilfen angebracht.
Fourteen Years of Archaeological and Heritage Research in the Iringa Region, Tanzania
Authors: Miller J. M. , Werner J. J. , Biittner K. M. , Willoughby P. R.
Published: May 2020

The Iringa Region is famous among archaeologists for the Acheulean site of Isimila, and among historians as the stronghold where Chief Mkwawa led the Hehe resistance against German colonial forces. However, our research reveals that Iringa has a rich archaeological record that spans the period from the Stone Age into the recent past. This article summarizes the results of 14 years of research by our team, the Iringa Region Archaeological Project (IRAP). Since 2006, IRAP members have recorded 67 sites, and this only scratches the surface of the archaeological potential in the area. These sites, some of which were recorded in conjunction with local participants, have archaeological component characteristic of the Early, Middle, and Later Stone Age, the Iron Age, and the recent past. We consider the archaeological and historical value of Iringa to be high and hope that this work inspires future research, tourism, and conservation efforts in the area.
Exploring the effects of lifestyle on breast cancer risk, age at diagnosis, and survival: the EBBA-Life study
Authors: Lofterød Trygve , Frydenberg Hanne , Flote Vidar , Eggen Anne Elise , McTiernan Anne , Mortensen Elin S. , Akslen Lars A. , Reitan Jon B. , Wilsgaard Tom , Thune Inger
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Whether an unfavorable lifestyle not only affects breast cancer risk, but also influences age at onset of breast cancer and survival, is under debate.

Methods

In a population-based cohort, the Energy Balance and Breast Cancer Aspects throughout life (EBBA-Life) study, a total of 17,145 women were included. During follow-up, 574 women developed invasive breast cancer. Breast cancer cases were followed for an additional 9.1 years. Detailed medical records were obtained. Cox’s proportional hazard regression models were used to study the association between pre-diagnostic lifestyle factors (weight, physical activity, alcohol use, smoking, and hypertension), breast cancer risk, age at diagnosis, and survival.

Results

At study entry, 34.3% of the participating women were overweight and 30.7% were physically inactive. Mean age at breast cancer diagnosis was 58.0 years, and 78.9% of the tumors were estrogen receptor positive. Among menopausal women who did not use hormone therapy and had an unfavorable lifestyle (3–5 unfavorable factors), compared with women who had a favorable lifestyle, we observed a twofold higher risk for postmenopausal breast cancer (hazard ratio [HR] 2.13, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.23–3.69), and they were 3.4 years younger at diagnosis (64.8 versus 68.2 years, P = 0.032). Breast cancer patients with an unfavorable lifestyle, compared with patients with a favorable lifestyle, had almost a two times higher overall mortality risk (HR 1.96, 95% CI 1.01–3.80).

Conclusions

Our study supports a healthy lifestyle improving breast cancer prevention, postponing onset of disease, and extending life expectancy among breast cancer patients.
KIR and HLA-C genes in male infertility
Authors: Wilczyńska Karolina , Radwan Paweł , Krasiński Rafał , Radwan Michał , Wilczyński Jacek R. , Malinowski Andrzej , Barcz Ewa , Nowak Izabela
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Approximately 50% of men reporting to clinics for assisted reproduction have abnormal sperm parameters; we therefore considered whether they differ from fertile males in terms of the frequency of KIR and HLA-C genes, suggesting the involvement of NK cells and some T cells in the inflammatory reaction that can occur in the testes, vas deferens, or epididymis.

Method

We tested a total of 1064 men: 445 of them were patients who, together with their female partners, participated in in vitro fertilization (IVF), 298 men whose female partners suffered from recurrent spontaneous abortion. Three hundred twenty-one fertile men constituted the control group. KIRs were genotyped using KIR Ready Gene kits and HLA-C by PCR-SSP methods.

Results

We found differences in KIR gene frequencies between men who became fathers via natural conception and men who participated in in vitro fertilization for KIR2DL2 (p/pcorr. = 0.0015/0.035, OR = 1.61), KIR2DL5 gr.2 (p/pcorr. = 0.0023/0.05, OR = 1.64), KIR2DS2 (p/pcorr. = 0.0019/0.044, OR = 1.59), and KIR2DS3 (p/pcorr. = 0.0016/0.037, OR = 1.67). KIRs in Cen AA region were significantly overrepresented in fertile males than in IVF males (p/pcorr. = 0.0076/0.03, OR = 0.67), whereas Cen AB + Cen BB frequency was higher in IVF males than in fertile males (p/pcorr. = 0.0076/0.03, OR = 1.50). We also observed a limited association in KIR-HLA-C combinations.

Conclusion

Fertile men differ in profile of KIR genes and KIR-HLA-C combinations from men participating in IVF.