bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Open‐access colonoscopy quality indicators and patient perception using split‐dose bowel preparation
Authors: Manem Nihita , Donovan Katherine , Miller David , Yodice Michael , Wang Katie , Balogun Khadijat , Kabbach Ghassan , Feustel Paul , Tadros Micheal
Published: March 2021

Background and Aim

Open‐access (OA) colonoscopies are defined as those scheduled without a gastrointestinal (GI) office visit. Past research has not focused on split preparation use and patient perception within OA. We aim to identify differences in bowel preparation (BP) adequacy, adenoma detection rate (ADR), self‐reported compliance, and patient perception between OA and GI providers using split prep.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study using split BP for colonoscopies. Patients completed a survey, and demographics, BP adequacy, and ADR were recorded. BP compliance was self‐reported. Patients were asked three questions qualifying the BP instructions. Data were analyzed using chi square and Mann–Whitney tests by SPSS.

Results

BP adequacy was reported for 56 of 60 patients. Twenty‐one participants (38%) were scheduled on OA, and 35 participants (62%) were scheduled after a GI office visit. Adequate BP was more frequent in 86% (18/21) of OA patients compared to 60% (21/35) in the GI group (P = 0.043). OA patients reported better review and explanation of the BP instructions compared to GI patients. There was no statistical difference between the demographics of the OA and GI groups or self‐reported compliance and patient understanding of instructions.

Conclusion

OA scheduled colonoscopies were associated with more adequate BP. This could be explained by patients' self‐motivation or an explanation of the importance of completing BP. This study supports the use of OA procedures as a standard of care.
Combined parametric down‐ and up‐conversion noncollinear processes under picosecond pumping in KTP, controlled by injection seeding
Authors: Vereshchagin Konstantin A. , Vereshchagin Alexey K. , Morozov Vyacheslav B. , Tunkin Vladimir G.
Published: March 2021

A cascade mechanism of the emerging of a radiation in blue and red spectral ranges in the KTP crystal—combined non‐collinear parametric down‐ and up‐conversion—was discovered and experimentally investigated. To become observable this mechanism needs to be accompanied by a process of parametric amplification of the seeding wave. The non‐collinear optical parametric amplifier based on the KTP crystal, pumped by 532 nm picosecond pulses, was exploited to study combined noncollinear down‐conversion and up‐conversion processes. Narrowband seeding was provided by radiation of a picosecond optical parametric generator pumped by 355‐nm picosecond pulses synchronized with 532‐nm pulses. The corresponding phase matching conditions for both down‐ and up‐conversion stages were found out on the basis of the tuning curves calculated for the type II phase matching in the XOZ plane of the KTP crystal. When the wavelength and noncollinearity angle of the seeding matched any signal wave of the down‐conversion stage, the seeding was amplified. Along with this, a radiation appeared in the visible part of the spectrum, which was not observed without seeding amplification. The wavelengths and spatial patterns of the radiation arisen, corresponded to some phasematched processes of sum frequency generation between the signal and idler waves existing in the crystal at the down‐conversion stage. Being very weak, these processes are usually unobserved. Thus, injection seeding allows from plenty possible processes to reveal and highlight only those, which correspond to the noncollinearity angle and the wavelength of the seeding. This phenomenon potentially can be exploited to control light at the outlet of a nonlinear crystal.
Estimation of the number of active sites through kinetic analysis on MWCNT‐supported nanocatalysts
Authors: Erünal Ebru
Published: March 2021

A semiempirical approach was derived to obtain turnover frequency (TOF) and the number of active sites in the absence of chemisorption methods. First, a deductive kinetic analysis was carried out considering the overall reaction of the selected cross‐coupling model reaction. The catalytic rate constants at various temperatures were estimated, and they were used to calculate the activation energy barrier. Then, the obtained activation energy was substituted in an energy span model to interpret semiempirical TOF values that enable the prediction of the number of active sites of the heterogeneous catalyst. The multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) supported nanocatalyst was prepared via the supercritical carbon dioxide deposition method. The reasonable number of active sites showed that the MWCNT character and the supercritical fluid deposition method seem to be effective to obtain efficient catalysts. This semiempirical approach is expected to provide a practical way to understand the catalyst properties and useful input to further scale‐up catalyst design studies.
Non‐invasive prenatal testing for the prenatal screening of sex chromosome aneuploidies: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of diagnostic test accuracy studies
Authors: Soukkhaphone Bounhome , Lindsay Carmen , Langlois Sylvie , Little Julian , Rousseau Francois , Reinharz Daniel
Published: March 2021

Background

There is little evidence on the performance of non‐invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) for the detection of fetal sex chromosomal imbalances. In this review, we aimed to appraise and synthesize the literature on the performance of NIPT for the prenatal detection of fetal sex chromosome aneuploidies.

Methods

We performed our literature search in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and CADTH. Study selection and data extraction were performed by two reviewers independently. There were no restrictions on the study population. Meta‐analyses were performed with “R” software. Pooled sensitivities and specificities with their 95% CI were estimated using a random‐effects model. Heterogeneity between studies was assessed by a Q test.

Results

Based on 11 studies in high prior risk pregnancies, including 116 affected fetuses in aggregate, Massively Parallel Shotgun Sequencing (MPSS) had a sensitivity of 93.9% (95% CI 84.1%, 97.8%) and a specificity of 99.6% (95% CI 98.7%, 99.9%) for the detection of 45,X. Based on four studies in high‐risk pregnancies, with 83 affected fetuses in aggregate, Targeted Massively Parallel Sequencing (TMPS) had a sensitivity of 83.2% (95% CI 49.6%, 96.2%) and specificity was 99.8% (95% CI 98.3%, 100%) for the detection of 45,X. In mixed‐risk pregnancies, the sensitivity of TMPS for the detection of 45,X was 90.9% (2 studies; 95% CI 70%, 97.7%) and specificity 99.9% (2 studies; 95% CI 99.4%, 100%); MPSS data were not available in such pregnancies. Based on smaller numbers of studies, and small numbers of affected fetuses in either high‐risk or mixed‐risk pregnancies (using either MPSS or TMPS), the sensitivities and specificities were equal to or greater than 76.2% for 47,XXX, 47,XXY and 47, XYY. The test failures for SCAs were 0.2% (95% CI 0%, 13.6%) for MPSS and 5.6% (95% CI 3.7%, 8.4%) for TMPS.

Conclusion

High‐quality studies are still desirable in order to estimate the performance of NIPT for the detection of sex chromosome imbalances.
Stepwise shortening of agalsidase beta infusion duration in Fabry disease: Clinical experience with infusion rate escalation protocol
Authors: Riccio Eleonora , Zanfardino Mario , Franzese Monica , Capuano Ivana , Buonanno Pasquale , Ferreri Lucia , Amicone Maria , Pisani Antonio
Published: March 2021

Background

Although enzyme replacement therapy with agalsidase beta resulted in a variety of clinical benefits, life‐long biweekly intravenous infusion may impact on patients’ quality of life. Moreover, regular infusions are time‐consuming: although a stepwise shortening of infusion duration is allowed up to a minimum of 1.5 hr, in most centers it remains ≥3 hr, and no data exists about the safety and tolerability of agalsidase beta administration at maximum tolerated infusion rate.

Methods

In this study, we reported our experience with a stepwise infusion rate escalation protocol developed in our center in a cohort of 53 Fabry patients (both already receiving and treatment‐naΪve), and explored factors predictive for the infusion rate increase tolerability.

Results

Fifty‐two patients (98%) reduced infusion duration ≤3 hr; of these, 38 (72%) even reached a duration ≤2 hr. We found a significant difference between the mean duration reached by already treated and naΪve patients (p < .01). More severely affected patients (male patients and those with lower enzyme activity) received longer infusions for higher risk of infusion‐associated reactions (IARs). A significant correlation between anti‐agalsidase antibodies and IARs was found.

Conclusion

Our infusion rate escalation protocol is safe and could improve patient compliance, satisfaction and quality of life.
Improved whole‐brain SNR with an integrated high‐permittivity material in a head array at 7T
Authors: Lakshmanan Karthik , Carluccio Giuseppe , Walczyk Jerzy , Brown Ryan , Rupprecht Sebastian , Yang Qing X. , Lanagan Michael T. , Collins Christopher M.
Published: March 2021

Purpose

To demonstrate that strategic use of materials with high electric permittivity along with integrated head‐sized coil arrays can improve SNR in the entire brain.

Methods

Numerical simulations were used to design a high‐permittivity material (HPM) helmet for enhancing SNR throughout the brain in receive arrays of 8 and 28 channels. Then, two 30‐channel head coils of identical geometry were constructed: one fitted with a prototype helmet‐shaped ceramic HPM helmet, and the second with a helmet‐shaped low‐permittivity shell, each 8‐mm thick. An eight‐channel dipole array was used for excitation. In vivo maps of excitation flip angle and SNR were acquired.

Results

Simulation results showed improvement in transmit efficiency by up to 65% and in receive‐side SNR by up to 47% on average through the head with use of an HPM helmet. Experimental results showed that experimental transmit efficiency was improved by approximately 56% at the center of brain, and experimental receive‐side SNR (SNR normalized to flip angle) was improved by approximately 21% on average through orthogonal planes through the cerebrum, including at the center of the brain, with the HPM.

Conclusion

Although HPM is used increasingly to improve transmit efficiency locally in situations in which the transmit coil and imaging volume are much larger than the HPM, here we demonstrate that HPM can also be used to improve transmit efficiency and receive‐side SNR throughout the brain by improving performance of a head‐sized receive array. This includes the center of the brain, where it is difficult to improve SNR by other means.
Fast, regional three‐dimensional hybrid (1D‐Hadamard 2D‐rosette) proton MR spectroscopic imaging in the human temporal lobes
Authors: Tal Assaf , Zhao Tiejun , Schirda Claudiu , Hetherington Hoby P. , Pan Jullie W. , Gonen Oded
Published: March 2021

1H‐MRSI is commonly performed with gradient phase encoding, due to its simplicity and minimal radio frequency (RF) heating (specific absorption rate). Its two well‐known main problems—(i) “voxel bleed” due to the intrinsic point‐spread function, and (ii) chemical shift displacement error (CSDE) when slice‐selective RF pulses are used, which worsens with increasing volume of interest (VOI) size—have long become accepted as unavoidable. Both problems can be mitigated with Hadamard multislice RF encoding. This is demonstrated and quantified with numerical simulations, in a multislice phantom and in five healthy young adult volunteers at 3 T, targeting a 2‐cm thick temporal lobe VOI through the bilateral hippocampus. This frequently targeted region (e.g. in epilepsy and Alzheimer's disease) is subject to strong, 1‐2 ppm.cm‐1 regional B0, susceptibility gradients that can dramatically reduce the signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) and water suppression effectiveness. The chemical shift imaging (CSI) sequence used a 3‐ms Shinnar–Le Roux (SLR) 90° RF pulse, acquiring eight steps in the slice direction. The Hadamard sequence acquired two overlapping slices using the same SLR 90° pulses, under twofold stronger gradients that proportionally halved the CSDE. Both sequences used 2D 20 × 20 rosette spectroscopic imaging (RSI) for in‐plane spatial localization and both used RF and gradient performance characteristics that are easily met by all modern MRI instruments. The results show that Hadamard spectroscopic imaging (HSI) suffered dramatically less signal bleed within the VOI compared with CSI (<1% vs. approximately 26% in simulations; and 5%–8% vs. >50%) in a phantom specifically designed to test these effects. The voxels' SNR per unit volume per unit time was also 40% higher for HSI. In a group of five healthy volunteers, we show that HSI with in‐plane 2D‐RSI facilitates fast, 3D multivoxel encoding at submilliliter spatial resolution, over the bilateral human hippocampus, in under 10 min, with negligible CSDE, spectral and spatial contamination and more than 6% improved SNR per unit time per unit volume.
The b‐bibranching problem: TDI system, packing, and discrete convexity
Authors: Takazawa Kenjiro
Published: March 2021

In this article, we introduce the b‐bibranching problem in digraphs, which is a common generalization of the bibranching and b‐branching problems. The bibranching problem, introduced by Schrijver, is a common generalization of the branching and bipartite edge cover problems. Previous results on bibranchings include polynomial algorithms, a linear programming formulation with total dual integrality, a packing theorem, and an M‐convex submodular flow formulation. The b‐branching problem, recently introduced by Kakimura, Kamiyama, and Takazawa, is a generalization of the branching problem admitting higher indegree, that is, each vertex v can have indegree at most b(v). For b‐branchings, a combinatorial algorithm, a linear programming formulation with total dual integrality, and a packing theorem for branchings are extended. A main contribution of this article is to extend those previous results on bibranchings and b‐branchings to b‐bibranchings. That is, we present a linear programming formulation with total dual integrality, a packing theorem, and an M‐convex submodular flow formulation for b‐bibranchings. In particular, the linear program and M‐convex submodular flow formulations, respectively, imply polynomial algorithms for finding a shortest b‐bibranching.
Impact of employee emotions on merger outcomes: Mediating role of middle managers
Authors: Naz Zeba , Asim Mohammad , Sarim Mohd
Published: March 2021

The present study aims to assess employee emotional responses of organizations undergoing Mergers and Acquisitions and middle‐level manager role in managing these emotional responses in the post‐acquisition phase. The study is empirical in which a total of 215 responses from middle managers, involved in six Mergers and Acquisitions, were considered. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire containing standard scales of employee emotions during change, and middle manager role tested in other change contexts. The psychometric properties of the measures are established before testing the hypotheses. The results indicated that middle managers involvement in the strategy could enhance their commitment, which can reduce resistance to change and smoother integration. The results highlighted the importance of leveraging the middle manager role, given the post‐merger phase's criticality to achieve the desired synergies. One of the fundamental strengths of the paper is the rigors undertaken in selecting the companies representing an apt radical change context to test the theory of emotional balancing. The application of the concept of emotional balancing in the radical change context of Mergers and Acquisitions and its empirical validation is an original contribution to the field of knowledge in change management.
The role of Chinese mining corporates in adhering to corporate social responsibility in Zambia's mining industry, 2010–2018
Authors: Rapanyane Makhura B.
Published: March 2021

Within the context of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), this secondary data‐based research paper examined the role of China's mining companies' adherence to CSR within the context of its engagement with Zambia. The central question grappled within this paper is whether there is a practise of CSR as a corporate ethic strategy to further social good which must be interpreted even beyond the firm or companies' interests, all required by the internal laws of Zambia. The central objective is to analyse CSR which ought to be applied to enhance high ethical standards, reduction of legal risks, and positive public relations. As such, this paper argues that there is a deficit literature and/knowledge existing which outlines the role of Chinese mining corporates' CSR in the Zambian mining industry. Implying that there are limited policy blueprints or scholarly documents, outlining how Chinese mining companies are expected to conduct themselves. The only scholarly relevant available knowledge at our disposal in respect to the subject under scrutiny exists in Euro‐American Multimedia video‐sharing engines such asYoutube and Twitter. These knowledge systems are North [ern] angled, contributing to an imbalanced body of knowledge, that triggered the adoption of Afrocentricity as the alternative theoretical telescope.
Editor's Letter
Authors: Mick Connie Snyder
Published: March 2021

This letter from the editor provides a brief summary of the articles contained in this issue and invites readers to respond and submit their own articles.
What are survivorship care plans failing to tell men after prostate cancer treatment?
Authors: Choi Youngjee , Smith Katherine C. , Shukla Aishwarya , Blackford Amanda L. , Tran Phuoc T. , Peairs Kimberly S. , DeMarco Thomas M. , Choflet Amanda , Farling Kristen , Kelso Madeline , Carducci Michael A. , Mayonado Nancy , Snyder Claire F.
Published: March 2021

Background

Survivorship care plans contain important information for patients and primary care physicians regarding appropriate care for cancer survivors after treatment. We describe the completeness of prostate cancer survivorship care plans and evaluate the concordance of follow‐up recommendations with guidelines.

Methods

We analyzed 119 prostate cancer survivorship care plans from one academic and one community cancer center, abstracting demographics, cancer/treatment details, and follow‐up recommendations. Follow‐up recommendations were compared with the American Cancer Society (ACS), American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), and National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines.

Results

Content in >90% of plans included cancer TNM stage; prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) at diagnosis; radiation treatment details (98% of men received radiation); and PSA monitoring recommendations. Potential treatment‐specific side effects were listed for 82% of men who had surgery, 86% who received androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), and 97% who underwent radiation. The presence of posttreatment symptoms was noted in 71% of plans. Regarding surveillance follow‐up, all guidelines recommend an annual digital rectal exam (DRE). No plans specified DRE. However, all 71 plans at the community site recommended at least annual follow‐up visits with urology, radiation oncology, and primary care. Only 2/48 plans at the academic site specified follow‐up visits. All guidelines recommend PSA testing every 6–12 months for 5 years, then annually. For the first 5 years, 90% of plans were guideline‐concordant, 8% suggested oversurveillance, and 2% were incomplete. In men receiving ADT, ACS and ASCO recommend bone density imaging and NCCN recommends testosterone levels. Of 77 men on ADT, 1% were recommended bone density imaging and 16% testosterone level testing.

Conclusions

While care plan content is more complete for demographic and treatment summary information, both sites had gaps in reporting posttreatment symptoms and ADT‐related testing recommendations. These findings highlight the need to improve the quality of information in care plans, which are important in communicating appropriate follow‐up recommendations to patients and primary care physicians.
Darolutamide for castration‐resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Chaplin Steve
Published: March 2021

Darolutamide (Nubeqa) is an androgen‐receptor inhibitor for the treatment of men with non‐metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer who are at high risk of developing metastatic disease. This article outlines its efficacy, adverse effects and place in therapy.
The Trivalent Rare‐Earth Dopant in the KBaPO4 and KSrPO4 Compounds: An Atomistic Simulation Study
Authors: Barbosa Gilberto J. , dos S. Rezende Marcos V.
Published: March 2021

KBaPO4 and KSrPO4 phosphates belong to an important group of luminescent materials that have a wide range of optical applications when doped with trivalent rare‐earth (RE) ions. An atomistic simulation technique based on lattice energy minimization is used to examine the intrinsic defect process and the incorporation of a variety of trivalent RE (RE = Yb3+, Dy3+, Tb3+, Sm3+, Pr3+, and Ce3+) dopant ions in KBaPO4 and KSrPO4. Calculations suggest that intrinsic defects such as the K’M antisite and K Frenkel are favorable, and also that the RE ions preferentially occupy divalent host sites in both structures. The K’Ba and K’Sr antisite defects are the most favorable charge compensation defect in KBaPO4 and KSrPO4, respectively. Structural and local changes caused by trivalent dopants are also investigated.
External controls on the transition between stable boundary‐layer turbulence regimes
Authors: Acevedo Otávio C. , Costa Felipe D. , Maroneze Rafael , Carvalho Arlindo D. , Puhales Franciano S. , Oliveira Pablo E. S.
Published: March 2021

The mean wind speed at which the stable boundary layer (SBL) experiences a turbulence regime transition (Vr) depends on other flow characteristics, such as its thermal stability. Here, Vr variability is examined both at a single site and across sites using three multiple‐level datasets: Santa Maria, Cooperative Atmosphere–Surface Exchange Study–1999 (CASES‐99), and Fluxes over Snow Surfaces (FLOSS II). A method to determine Vr is introduced and validated. It is taken as the mean wind speed at which the vertical gradient of the turbulence velocity scale switches sign. Emphasis is given to the control exerted on Vr by quantities that are external to the SBL, such as radiation, roughness, and soil properties. In each of the experiments, Vr increases with net radiative loss at the surface (Rn) at a rate that is site‐dependent. It also increases for smaller roughness lengths, as indicated by its wind direction dependence. No conclusive relationship has been found between Vr and downward longwave radiation observed at the surface. The across‐site comparison indicates that soil heat capacity influences the rate at which Vr increases with Rn.
Penile cancer: HPV, lichen sclerosis and circumcision
Authors: Emmanuel Anthony , Parnham Arie , Kalejaiye Odunayo
Published: March 2021

Penile cancer is a rare malignancy and is associated with a high morbidity and mortality in advanced cases, and significant psychosocial implications for those afflicted. In this article the authors review the relationship between recognised risk factors, including human papillomavirus, lichen sclerosis, circumcision and penile cancer.
Heart failure in men
Authors: Singhal Arvind , Cowie Martin R
Published: March 2021

Heart failure is accompanied by specific health issues in men, which are underappreciated. It is important to recognise and discuss these issues and offer appropriate treatment modifications if possible.
Milestones in the management of prostate cancer
Authors: Woodhouse Christopher
Published: March 2021

Improvements in surgical management usually occur slowly so changes are only recognised when, with maturity, surgeons look back at earlier protocols. Prostate cancer management, on the other hand, has undergone radical change since it was first described, but with identifiable milestones, some of which were quite dramatic.
Knowledge and Attitudes About Type 2 Diabetes Among Female Nursing Students in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Abdirahman Hafsa A. , Hassan Tasneem , AbuAlUla Nada A. , Jacobsen Kathryn H.
Published: March 2021

We evaluated current knowledge and attitudes about type 2 diabetes among female students pursuing nursing degrees at one university in Saudi Arabia in 2018–19. The majority of the 87 respondents were aware of risk factors for type 2 diabetes, such as obesity (95 percent) and age (93 percent). Most participants were also aware that diabetes can cause complications such as blindness (88 percent), kidney disease (77 percent), and heart disease (67 percent). However, only about half believed that type 2 diabetes is a very serious disease (47 percent), and many believed that people with diabetes who do not use insulin have mild disease (61 percent) and do not need to worry about long‐term complications (36 percent). Addressing these misperceptions, perhaps with education that combines the cognitive and affective domains, will prepare these rising professionals to provide better patient care in the coming years as Saudi Arabia seeks to reduce its epidemiological and economic burden from diabetes.
A new porous heterometallic metal‐organic framework for gas adsorption and luminescence sensing
Authors: Guo Li‐Da , Liu Yi , Guo Li‐Jian , Cao Jin‐Jin , Li Wen‐Hong , Liu Ting , Qiao Sen , Wang Bing
Published: March 2021

A new heterometallic metal‐organic framework, namely [Zn2Sr(btc)2(H2O)3]n ⋅ x(solvent) (1 btc=1,3,5‐benzenetricarboxylate), has been solvothermally synthesized and structurally characterized. X‐ray structural analysis reveals that compound 1 exploits heterometallic trinuclear [Zn2Sr(COO)6] clusters as secondary building subunits, and displays a 3D framework with 1D channels along crystallographical c axis that can be simplified into a binodal (3,6)‐connected topological network. The activated sample of 1 a shows high CO2 adsorption capacity and high adsorption selectivity of CO2 over N2 at 298 K. Luminescent properties investigations indicate that 1 a can sensitively sensing of CS2 via luminescence quenching.
On the toric ideals of matroids of a fixed rank
Authors: Lasoń Michał
Published: March 2021

In 1980 White conjectured that every element of the toric ideal of a matroid is generated by quadratic binomials corresponding to symmetric exchanges. We prove White’s conjecture for high degrees with respect to the rank. This extends our result (Lasoń and Michałek in Adv Math 259:1–12, 2014) confirming White’s conjecture ‘up to saturation’. Furthermore, we study degrees of Gröbner bases and Betti tables of the toric ideals of matroids of a fixed rank.
The role of macrophage scavenger receptor 1 (Msr1) in prion pathogenesis
Authors: Li Bei , Chen Meiling , Aguzzi Adriano , Zhu Caihong
Published: March 2021

The progression of prion diseases is accompanied by the accumulation of prions in the brain. Ablation of microglia enhances prion accumulation and accelerates disease progression, suggesting that microglia play a neuroprotective role by clearing prions. However, the mechanisms underlying the phagocytosis and clearance of prion are largely unknown. The macrophage scavenger receptor 1 (Msr1) is an important phagocytic receptor expressed by microglia in the brain and is involved in the uptake and clearance of soluble amyloid-β. We therefore asked whether Msr1 might play a role in prion clearance and assessed the scavenger function of Msr1 in prion pathogenesis. We found that Msr1 expression was upregulated in prion-infected mouse brains. However, Msr1 deficiency did not change prion disease progression or lesion patterns. Prion deposition in Msr1 deficient mice was similar to their wild-type littermates. In addition, prion-induced neuroinflammation was not affected by Msr1 ablation. We conclude that Msr1 does not play a major role in prion pathogenesis.

Key messages

Msr1 expression is upregulated in prion-infected mouse brains at the terminal stage

Msr1 deficiency does not affect prion disease progression

Msr1 does not play a major role in prion clearance or prion pathogenesis

Microglia-mediated phagocytosis and clearance of Aβ and prion may adopt distinct molecular pathways
Bewohner*innen mit Parkinson-Syndrom in der stationären Altenhilfe
Authors: Mai Tobias , Ketter Ann-Kathrin
Published: March 2021

Hintergrund

Parkinson-Syndrome führen im Krankheitsverlauf zur Pflegebedürftigkeit bei den Betroffenen. Zur Prävalenz der Bewohner*innen mit einem Parkinson-Syndrom in Pflegeeinrichtungen, zu ihrer Versorgungssituation und zur vorhandenen Expertise der Pflegefachpersonen in den Einrichtungen ist wenig bekannt.

Ziel der Arbeit

Die vorliegende Studie untersucht die Prävalenzrate der Bewohner*innen mit einem Parkinson-Syndrom in stationären Pflegeeinrichtungen in Deutschland. Die Arbeit exploriert die Zusammenarbeit verschiedener Akteure, deren Koordination sowie Information und Wissen des Pflegepersonals. Ziel ist es, einen möglichen Bedarf an spezialisierter Pflege in Pflegeeinrichtungen aufzuzeigen.

Methode

Die schriftliche Querschnittsbefragung der Wohnbereichsleitungen von 500 zufällig ausgewählten Pflegeeinrichtungen in Deutschland erfolgte von Januar bis Juni 2020. Der eingesetzte Fragebogen wurde vorab literaturbasiert entwickelt. Die Daten wurden deskriptiv analysiert.

Ergebnisse

Aus 57 Einrichtungen wurden Fragebogen von 85 Wohnbereichen analysiert (Rücklaufquote 11,4 %). Die Prävalenzrate von Bewohner*innen mit einem Parkinson-Syndrom in der stationären Altenhilfe beträgt 13,9 %. Mehr als die Hälfte haben zusätzlich eine Demenzdiagnose (52,8 %). In 26 % der Fälle erfolgen Krankenhausaufenthalte infolge von Sturzereignissen. Eine eindeutige Koordination der Versorgung durch ärztliche oder pflegerische Spezialisten gibt es nicht.

Diskussion

Bewohner*innen mit einem Parkinson-Syndrom in der stationären Altenhilfe sind häufig, und sie zeigen komplexe motorische und nichtmotorische Symptome – auch durch die Komorbidität Demenz. Die Häufigkeit von Sturzereignissen mit Krankenhausaufenthalten und die geringe Anzahl Parkinson-Syndrom-spezifischer Hilfsmittel zeigen, dass das Wissen der Pflege vor Ort gesteigert werden kann. Eine zentrale Koordination und Unterstützung hierzu sollten in der stationären Langzeitpflege etabliert werden.
Effect of Compaction Banding on the Hydraulic Properties of Porous Rock - Part II: Constitutive Description and Numerical Simulations
Authors: Leuthold Julia , Gerolymatou Eleni , Triantafyllidis Theodoros
Published: March 2021

In this paper the performance of a constitutive model for the description of the hydro mechanical behaviour of soft rock is evaluated with respect to the experimentally observed behaviour of Maastricht Calcarenite under different stress states that is presented in the companion paper. The mechanical model is elasto-plastic and consists of an associated yield surface, internal variables for the description of the hardening and softening behaviour and a non-local extension for the simulation of strain localization in form of shear bands and compaction bands. The model is implemented in the software ABAQUS and the laboratory results from the tests under dry condition with Maastricht Calcarenite are used for the calibration. The good agreement of the numerical results with the laboratory results is shown and the suitability of the model is discussed. To describe the effect of compaction bands on the permeability of soft rocks a simple analytical model based on the Kozeny–Carman equation is proposed and calibrated with the experimental results from drained tests under different stress states for Maastricht Calcarenite rock material. As the results are in good accordance with the experimental results, the model is implemented in the software ABAQUS and the numerical results are presented and discussed. Finally the performance of the model is evaluated and possible improvements are suggested.
Determination of Fracture Toughness of Mode I Fractures from Three-Point Bending Tests at Elevated Confining Pressures
Authors: Yang Hongwei , Krause Michael , Renner Joerg
Published: March 2021

Fracture toughness is one of the key parameters for the characterization of brittle rock fracturing. Yet, constraints on it mainly rest on measurements performed at ambient pressure, although rock fracturing frequently occurs at elevated pressures even in geotechnical applications. To address the lack of a generally accepted evaluation procedure for tests at elevated pressure we explored the conditions for initiation and propagation of mode I fractures in samples subjected to bending at elevated pressure by numerical modeling and analytical considerations of the involved angular moments. We derived an evaluation procedure and applied it to experimental observations for specimens with either a chevron or a single-edge notch of four different rocks (a granite, a limestone, a marble and a sandstone) subjected to three-point bending at confining pressures up to 30 MPa. Two sealing methods were considered. Specimens were either varnished or jacketed by a rubber tube, differing in whether pressure is allowed to build up inside the pre-fabricated notch or not, respectively. Irrespective of notch geometry and sealing method, the determined toughness values increase significantly with confining pressure. The apparent toughness determined for jacketed specimens is, however, larger than that for varnished specimens, for which toughness seems to reach a plateau with increasing pressure. The similarity of the pressure dependence of the toughness determined for varnished, i.e., uniformly pressurized, samples with that of other physical properties suggests that it is controlled by the closure of pre-existing micro-cracks; the absence of pressure dependence beyond some tens of MPa suggests that non-linearity effects may not be as severe at depths beyond a few kilometers as previously discussed. Our study points to the necessity of resolving numerical issues associated with compressed fractures and of further improving experimental facilities for the determination of fracture toughness at elevated pressure.
Damage Evolution of Coal with Inclusions Under Triaxial Compression
Authors: Zhao Yufeng , Konietzky Heinz , Herbst Martin
Published: March 2021

Along with the advance of the working face, coal experiences different loading stages. Laboratory tests and numerical simulations of fracture and damage evolution aim to better understand the structural stability of coal layers. Three-dimensional lab tests are performed and coal samples are reconstructed using X-ray computer tomography (CT) technique to get detailed information about damage and deformation state. Three-dimensional discrete element method (DEM)-based numerical models are generated. All models are calibrated against the results obtained from uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) tests and triaxial compression (TRX) tests performed in the laboratory. A new approach to simulate triaxial compression tests is established in this work with significant improved handling of the confinement to get realistic simulation results. Triaxial tests are simulated in 3D with the particle-based code PFC3D using a newly developed flexible wall (FW) approach. This new numerical simulation approach is validated by comparison with laboratory tests on coal samples. This approach involves an updating of the applied force on each wall element based on the flexible nature of a rubber sleeve. With the new FW approach, the influence of the composition (matrix and inclusions) of the samples on the peak strength is verified. Force chain development and crack distributions are also affected by the spatial distribution of inclusions inside the sample. Fractures propagate through the samples easily at low confining pressures. On the contrary, at high confining pressure, only a few main fractures are generated with orientation towards the side surfaces. The evolution of the internal fracture network is investigated. The development of microcracks is quantified by considering loading, confinement, and structural character of the rock samples. The majority of fractures are initiated at the boundary between matrix and inclusions, and propagate along their boundaries. The internal structure, especially the distribution of inclusions has significant influence on strength, deformation, and damage pattern.
p- and hp- virtual elements for the Stokes problem
Authors: Chernov A. , Marcati C. , Mascotto L.
Published: March 2021

We analyse the p- and hp-versions of the virtual element method (VEM) for the Stokes problem on polygonal domains. The key tool in the analysis is the existence of a bijection between Poisson-like and Stokes-like VE spaces for the velocities. This allows us to re-interpret the standard VEM for Stokes as a VEM, where the test and trial discrete velocities are sought in Poisson-like VE spaces. The upside of this fact is that we inherit from Beirão da Veiga et al. (Numer. Math. 138(3), 581–613, 2018) an explicit analysis of best interpolation results in VE spaces, as well as stabilization estimates that are explicit in terms of the degree of accuracy p of the method. We prove exponential convergence of the hp-VEM for Stokes problems with regular right-hand sides. We corroborate the theoretical estimates with numerical tests for both the p- and hp-versions of the method.
Middle leaders translating knowledge about improvement: Making change in the school and preschool organisation
Authors: Nehez Jaana , Blossing Ulf , Gyllander Torkildsen Lisbeth , Lander Rolf , Olin Anette
Published: March 2021

This article deepens the knowledge of middle leaders’ impact on school improvement and organisation development. More precisely, it focuses on how middle leaders from comprehensive schools and preschools translated improvement strategies and tools from a municipal course on leading school improvement into their own organisations. It is based on interviews with middle leaders, teachers, and principals at two schools and two preschools. Translation theory is used as a theoretical frame. The findings show that the middle leaders translated improvement strategies based on local needs, and for several reasons: for clarification and reduction of roles and improvement areas; structuring improvement work; engaging and involving colleagues in school improvement; and developing a professional culture. When taking the role of translators, the middle leaders became central to progressing the developmental elements of local school organisations. The study recommends investing to provide middle leaders with improvement strategies and an understanding of translation theory to enable translations that aid the development of school organisations.
How wide is the window opened by high-resolution relaxometry on the internal dynamics of proteins in solution?
Authors: Smith Albert A. , Bolik-Coulon Nicolas , Ernst Matthias , Meier Beat H. , Ferrage Fabien
Published: March 2021

The dynamics of molecules in solution is usually quantified by the determination of timescale-specific amplitudes of motions. High-resolution nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) relaxometry experiments—where the sample is transferred to low fields for longitudinal (T1) relaxation, and back to high field for detection with residue-specific resolution—seeks to increase the ability to distinguish the contributions from motion on timescales slower than a few nanoseconds. However, tumbling of a molecule in solution masks some of these motions. Therefore, we investigate to what extent relaxometry improves timescale resolution, using the “detector” analysis of dynamics. Here, we demonstrate improvements in the characterization of internal dynamics of methyl-bearing side chains by carbon-13 relaxometry in the small protein ubiquitin. We show that relaxometry data leads to better information about nanosecond motions as compared to high-field relaxation data only. Our calculations show that gains from relaxometry are greater with increasing correlation time of rotational diffusion.
Seasonal deposition of authigenic calcite out of isotopic equilibrium with DIC and water, and implications for paleolimnological studies
Authors: Apolinarska Karina , Pleskot Krzysztof , Pełechata Aleksandra , Migdałek Michał , Pełechaty Mariusz
Published: March 2021

We conducted year-round, monthly monitoring of the stable isotope composition of DIC and water in hypereutrophic Lake Kierskie, western Poland, along with isotope measures of calcite collected in sediment traps installed at 16 and 30 m water depth in the lake. Isotope data were supplemented by previously published data on physico-chemical variables in the lake water column. We sought to determine how carbon and oxygen isotopic disequilibria in calcite deposited in the lake’s laminated sediments vary seasonally, and what factors drive this variability. Deposition of calcite out of equilibrium with DIC and water was documented over the entire study period. For δ18O, the disequilibrium difference between successive months far exceeded the amplitude of the seasonal variability in the isotope composition of water. The biggest difference between the measured and calculated δ13Ccalcite and δ18Ocalcite values was observed during late autumn and winter sediment resuspension and redeposition (2.4‰ and 5.4‰, respectively). In the spring, δ13Ccalcite and δ18Ocalcite offsets from equilibria, 0.5‰ and 1.3‰, respectively, resulted from rapid precipitation of large calcite crystals. During summer, intense productivity and processes related to calcifying algae (“vital effects”) caused lower δ13C (0.5–1.8‰) and δ18O (2.8–2.9‰) in calcite. Differences between isotope values of calcite collected from the two water depths were small, and might have resulted from different settling velocities of small and large crystals, and/or preferential dissolution of smaller grains. We suggest that winter laminae should be excluded from isotope studies of varved sediments whenever possible, as they likely contain redeposited carbonate in which the isotope value is not indicative of conditions in the lake at the time of laminae formation. We also recommend supplementing isotope analysis of calcite in varved lake sediments with seasonally resolved analysis of carbonate content. It appears that major shifts in the proportion of carbonate deposited across seasons can cause notable changes in mean annual values of δ18Ocalcite and δ13Ccalcite, even if DIC and water isotopic compositions remain stable.
The Long Arm of an Unsupportive Work-Family Culture in Work Organizations: Crossover to the Partner’s Work-Family Balance Satisfaction in Dual-Earner Couples
Authors: Bernhardt Janine , Bünning Mareike
Published: March 2021

This study analyzes how an unsupportive organizational work-family culture experienced by one employed parent at work can cross over to their partner and reduce the latter’s satisfaction with work-family balance (WFBS). Workplace cultures that are structured around the “ideal worker” norm have enormous and often detrimental impacts on parents’ abilities to manage work and family roles. Drawing on crossover theory, we argue that these kinds of unsupportive work-family cultures have adverse consequences, not only for working parents but also for their partners. We hypothesize that if one partner experiences an unsupportive work-family culture, they can provide less instrumental and emotional support to the other partner, which reduces the other partner’s WFBS. We use a unique dataset of 556 dual-earner couples with young children surveyed in Germany in 2015 and perform multivariate regression analysis and structural equation modelling. We find robust evidence that mothers were less satisfied with work-family balance if fathers reported an unsupportive work-family culture in their organization. There was only weak evidence, however, for crossover between an unsupportive work-family culture at the mother’s workplace and the father’s WFBS. Mediation analysis suggests that these associations were transmitted in part through reduced emotional support, whereas instrumental support did not appear to play a role. The findings lend support to the argument that an unsupportive work-family culture in one parent’s workplace reduces the emotional support they provide to their partner, which reduces the partner’s WFBS.
Large-Scale RT-qPCR Diagnostics for Seed Potato Certification
Authors: Schumpp Olivier , Bréchon Amanda , Brodard Justine , Dupuis Brice , Farinelli Laurent , Frei Peter , Otten Patricia , Pellet Didier
Published: March 2021

Every year, Agroscope examines nearly 300,000 tubers for the presence of viruses, as regulated for the certification of seed potatoes intended for Swiss growers. Since 2016, this examination has been performed via RT-qPCR on dormant tubers directly after harvest. This method offers fast results and eliminates the need for the use of Rindite, which is a toxic and polluting gaseous compound previously used in Switzerland to break the dormancy of seed tubers. The implementation of this molecular analytical method for the routine diagnosis of regulated viruses makes it possible to conduct additional analyses via Illumina sequencing to assess the conformity of the primers and probes used with the sequences of the different viral isolates. This form of quality control in routine diagnosis is a source of information that can answer more fundamental scientific questions related to the epidemiology of viral strains related to certification. The datasets produced in this framework can also be used to explore the diversity of rare or unknown virus species in potato crops.
Correction to: 3D printing method for next‑day acetabular fracture surgery using a surface filtering pipeline: feasibility and 1‑year clinical results
Authors: Weidert Simon , Andress Sebastian , Linhart Christoph , Suero Eduardo M. , Greiner Axel , Böcker Wolfgang , Kammerlander Christian , Becker Christopher A.
Published: March 2021

A correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11548-021-02348-7
NADPH-Oxidasen und HIF: zentrale Elemente der Redoxhomöostase
Authors: Petry Andreas , Görlach Agnes
Published: March 2021

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are not only toxic agents but also potent signaling molecules. NADPH oxidases are the sole enzymes to generate ROS playing an important role in redox signaling. They closely interact in several ways with hypoxia-inducible transcription factors of the HIF family. This signaling network is active under normoxic and hypoxic conditions as an important regulator of redox homeostasis. Members of the NADPH oxidases-HIF axis appear as interesting therapeutic targets for various disorders characterized by an impaired redox homeostasis.
Hilfsmittel und Verfahren für zellbasiertes high content imaging
Authors: Gilbert Daniel F. , Friedrich Oliver , Lesko Christian , Hartmann Kristin
Published: March 2021

Cell-based high content imaging has become a versatile and powerful method for studying e. g. cellular viability, morphology or physiology. However, high content imaging and its various applications require complex as well as expensive hardware and consumables, limiting its utility and usability. To broaden the applicability of cell-based high content imaging, we have developed tools and assaying techniques being exemplary portrayed in this article.
Correction to: A case of hereditary angioedema due to C1-inhibitor deficiency with recurrent abdominal pain diagnosed 40 years after the occurrence of the initial symptom
Authors: Honda Daisuke , Ohsawa Isao , Iwanami Keiichi , Rinno Hisaki , Tomino Yasuhiko , Suzuki Yusuke
Published: March 2021

A correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12328-021-01390-x