bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Demarcating cognition: the cognitive life sciences
Authors: Keijzer Fred 
Published: September 2020

AbstractThis paper criticizes the role of intuition-based ascriptions of cognition that are closely related to the ascription of mind. This practice hinders the explication of a clear and stable target domain for the cognitive sciences. To move forward, the proposal is to cut the notion of cognition free from such ascriptions and the intuition-based judgments that drive them. Instead, cognition is reinterpreted and developed as a scientific concept that is tied to a material domain of research. In this reading, cognition becomes a changeable theoretical concept that can and must be adapted to the findings within this target domain. Taking humans as the best-established existing example of the relevant material target domain, this central case is extended to include all living systems. To clarify what it is about living systems that warrants their role as cognitive target domain, the new concept of cobolism is introduced as a complement to metabolism. Cobolism refers to the systematic ways in which each living system encompasses structures, processes and external events that maintain the fundamental metabolic processes that constitute the core of each living system. Cobolism is perfectly general, applies to bacterial and human cases alike, and provides a general format to describe wildly different cognitive organizations. It provides a clear target for the cognitive sciences to work on, turning them into what we can call the cognitive life sciences.
“Big brother is watching you”: surveillance via technology undermines employees’ learning and voice behavior during digital transformation
Authors: Kensbock Julia M. , Stöckmann Christoph 
Published: September 2020

AbstractIn the digital age, the ability of organizations to create innovation is more important than ever before. By taking an employee perspective to digital transformation, we examine two important and inter-related cornerstones of organizational innovation—employees’ intrinsically motivated learning (i.e., their learning orientation) and employees’ willingness to speak up and raise constructive suggestions (i.e., their voice behavior). We conducted a survey study with 100 employees working in industries that are currently disrupted by digitization. Supporting the idea of self-determination theory, our findings show that digital transformation triggers employees to engage in an intrinsically motivated process during which they adopt a learning orientation, which consequently motivates them to express voice behavior. However, this beneficial process is counteracted by perceived surveillance via technology. When employees feel that digital transformation is accompanied by increased surveillance, they are less likely to adopt a learning orientation and therefore less likely to engage in voice behavior. Theoretical as well as practical implications are discussed.
Patient reported outcome measures concerning urinary incontinence after robot assisted radical prostatectomy: development and validation of an online prediction model using clinical parameters, lower urinary tract symptoms and surgical experience
Authors: Collette Eelco R. P. , Klaver Sjoerd O. , Lissenberg-Witte Birgit I. , van den Ouden Dies , van Moorselaar Reindert J. A. , Vis André N. 
Published: September 2020

AbstractThe prediction of post-prostatectomy incontinence (PPI) after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) depends on multiple clinical, anatomical and surgical factors. There are only few risk formulas, tables or nomograms predicting PPI that may assist clinicians and their patients in adequate risk counseling on postoperative side-effects. Prospective data collection of 1814 patients who underwent RARP between 2009 and 2017 was done. Pre-operative parameters were age, body mass index (BMI), prostate volume, the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score, severity of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS), type of planned nerve-sparing surgery and surgical experience. The continence status was reported using Patient Reported Outcome Measurements (PROMs) using the validated pad-use questionnaire EPIC26. Continence was defined as either the use of zero pads or one safety pad. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of PPI within one year after RARP. An online prediction tool was developed and validated. The median follow-up was 36 months (range 12–108). The response rate was high at 85.2%. A total of 85% (1537/1814) of patients was continent on follow-up. One-year continence rate was 80.1% (95% CI 78.3–81.9%) (1453/1814) and increased to 87.4% (95% CI 85.4–89.4%) after 5 years. On multivariable analysis, severity of LUTS (OR = 0.56 p = 0.004), higher age (OR = 0.73 p = 0.049), extend of nerve-sparing surgery (OR = 0.60 p = 0.001) and surgeon experience (OR = 1.48 p = 0.025) were significant independent predictors for PPI. The online prediction model performed well in predicting continence status with poor discrimination and good calibration. An intuitive online tool was developed to predict PPI after RARP that may assist clinicians and their patients in counseling of treatment.
Derivation and validation of the clinical prediction model for COVID-19
Authors: Foieni Fabrizio , Sala Girolamo , Mognarelli Jason Giuseppe , Suigo Giulia , Zampini Davide , Pistoia Matteo , Ciola Mariella , Ciampani Tommaso , Ultori Carolina , Ghiringhelli Paolo 
Published: September 2020

AbstractThe epidemic phase of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) made the Worldwide health system struggle against a severe interstitial pneumonia requiring high-intensity care settings for respiratory failure. A rationalisation of resources and a specific treatment path were necessary. The study suggests a predictive model drawing on clinical data gathered by 119 consecutive patients with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 admitted in Busto Arsizio hospital. We derived a score that identifies the risk of clinical evolution and in-hospital mortality clustering patients into four groups. The study outcomes have been compared across the derivation and validation samples. The prediction rule is based on eight simple patient characteristics that were independently associated with study outcomes. It is able to stratify COVID-19 patients into four severity classes, with in-hospital mortality rates of 0% in group 1, 6–12.5% in group 2, 7–20% in group 3 and 60–86% in group 4 across the derivation and validation sample. The prediction model derived in this study identifies COVID-19 patients with low risk of in-hospital mortality and ICU admission. The prediction model that the study presents identifies COVID-19 patients with low risk of in-hospital mortality and admission to ICU. Moreover, it establishes an intermediate portion of patients that should be treated accurately in order to avoid an unfavourable clinical evolution. A further validation of the model is important before its implementation as a decision-making tool to guide the initial management of patients.
The emerging roles of exosomal circRNAs in diseases
Authors: Guo X. , Tan W. , Wang C. 
Published: September 2020

AbstractExosomes, the nanoscale phospholipid bilayer vesicles, enriched in selected proteins, nucleic acids and lipids, which they participated in a variety of biological processes in the body, including physiology and pathology. CircRNAs (circular RNAs) are a class of single-stranded closed molecules with tissue development specific expression patterns that have crucial regulatory functions in various diseases. Non-coding RNAs (such as microRNAs and long non‑coding RNAs) in exosomes have also been shown to play an important regulatory role in humans. However, little research has focused on exosomal circRNAs. Recently, CircRNAs have been identified to be enriched and stably expressed in exosomes. In this review, we summarize the biogenesis and biological functions of exosomes and circRNA, and further revealed the potential role of exosome-derived circRNA in different diseases. Besides, we propose its use as a diagnostic marker and therapeutic punctuation for diseases, especially in cancer.
Pre-procedural image-guided versus non-image-guided ventricular tachycardia ablation—a review
Authors: Hendriks A. A. , Kis Z. , Glisic M. , Bramer W. M. , Szili-Torok T. 
Published: September 2020

AbstractBackgroundMagnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography in patients with ventricular tachycardia (VT) after myocardial infarction (MI) helps to delineate scar from healthy tissue. Image-guided VT ablation has not yet been studied on a large scale.ObjectiveThe aim of the meta-analysis was to compare the long-term outcome of image-guided VT ablation with a conventional approach for VT after MI.MethodsEight electronic bibliographic databases were searched to identify all relevant studies from 2012 until 2018. The search for scientific literature was performed for studies that described the outcome of VT ablation in patients with an ischaemic substrate. The outcome of image-guided ablation was compared with the outcome of conventional ablations.ResultsOf the 2990 citations reviewed for eligibility, 38 articles—enrolling a total of 7748 patients—were included into the meta-analysis. Five articles included patients with image-guided ablation. VT-free survival was 82% [74–90] in the image-guided VT ablation versus 59% [54–64] in the conventional ablation group (p < 0.001) during a mean follow-up of 35 months. Overall survival was 94% [90–98] in the image-guided versus 82% [76–88] in the conventional VT ablation group (p < 0.001).ConclusionsImage-guided VT ablation in ischaemic VT was associated with a significant benefit in VT-free and overall survival as compared with conventional VT ablation. Visualising myocardial scar facilitates substrate-guided ablation procedures, pre-procedurally and by integrating imaging during the procedure, and may consequently improve long-term outcome.
Comparing nutrient reference concentrations in Nordic countries with focus on lowland rivers
Authors: Skarbøvik Eva , Aroviita Jukka , Fölster Jens , Solheim Anne Lyche , Kyllmar Katarina , Rankinen Katri , Kronvang Brian 
Published: September 2020

AbstractReference conditions of water bodies are defined as the natural or minimal anthropogenically disturbed state. We compared the methods for determining total phosphorus and total nitrogen concentrations in rivers in Finland, Norway and Sweden as well as the established reference conditions and evaluated the possibility for transfer and harmonisation of methods. We found that both methods and values differed, especially for lowland rivers with a high proportion of agriculture in the catchment. Since Denmark has not yet set reference conditions for rivers, two of the Nordic methods were tested for Danish conditions. We conclude that some of the established methods are promising but that further development is required. We moreover argue that harmonisation of reference conditions is needed to obtain common benchmarks for assessing the impacts of current and future land use changes on water quality.
Sustained absorption of delamanid from lipid-based formulations as a path to reduced frequency of administration
Authors: Ramirez Gisela , Pham Anna C. , Clulow Andrew J. , Salim Malinda , Hawley Adrian , Boyd Ben J. 
Published: September 2020

AbstractDelamanid is a poorly water-soluble drug currently being used for the treatment of tuberculosis. The high frequency of dosing leads to poor adherence for patients who live in lower economic and nomadic populations. Non-digestible self-assembling lipids as a formulation approach for poorly water-soluble drugs have previously been shown to extend the window of absorption through gastric retention. We hypothesise that this approach could lead to the reduction of dosing frequency for delamanid and thereby has potential to improve adherence. Formulations of delamanid were prepared in selachyl alcohol and phytantriol as non-digestible self-assembling lipid vehicles, and their behaviour was compared with reconstituted milk powder, as a digestible lipid-based formulation, and an aqueous suspension. The self-assembly of selachyl alcohol and phytantriol in aqueous media in the presence of delamanid was studied using small angle X-ray scattering and produced the inverse hexagonal (H2) and inverse bicontinuous cubic (V2) liquid crystal structures, respectively. The times at which maximum delamanid levels in plasma were observed (Tmax) after oral administration of the phytantriol, selachyl alcohol and reconstituted milk powder formulations of delamanid to rats were 27 ± 3, 20 ± 4 and 6.5 ± 1.0 h, respectively, compared with the aqueous suspension formulation with a Tmax of 3.4 ± 1 h, which confirms the hypothesis of an extended duration of absorption after administration in non-digestible self-assembling lipids. The digestion products of the triglycerides in the milk formulation increased the solubilisation of delamanid in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to an increase in exposure compared with the aqueous suspension formulation but did not significantly extend Tmax. Overall, the non-digestible nanostructured lipid formulations extended the duration of absorption of delamanid well beyond that from milk or suspension formulations.
Exploring perspectives on health professions education scholarship units from sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Van Schalkwyk Susan , O’Brien Bridget C. , Van der Vleuten Cees , Wilkinson Tim J. , Meyer Ilse , Schmutz Anna M. S. 
Published: September 2020

Introduction There has been a marked increase in institutional structures developed to support health professions education scholarship recently. These health professions education scholarship units (HPESUs) engage in a diverse range of activities. Previous work provided insight into factors that influence the functioning of such units, but data from European, Asian, Latin American, and African contexts was absent, potentially leading to a single world-view informing international standards for HPESUs. This aim of this study was to explore perspectives from sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) in response to this omission.
Methods Situated within an interpretivist paradigm, the research team conducted semi-structured interviews with nine HPESU leaders in SSA, exploring how participants experienced and understood the functioning of their units. Despite efforts to have representation from across the region, most participants were from South Africa. The researchers analysed data thematically using the theory of institutional logics as an analytical frame.
Results Several aspects of the HPESUs aligned with the previously identified logics of academic research, service and teaching; and of a cohesive education continuum. By contrast, leaders described financial sustainability as a more prominent logic than financial accountability.
Discussion The similarities identified in this study may reflect isomorphism—a process which sees institutions within a similar field becoming more alike, particularly as newer institutions seek to acquire legitimacy within that field. An important caveat, however, is that isomorphism tends to occur across similar institutional contexts, which was not the case in this study.
Prospects of Genetics and Epigenetics of Alcohol Use Disorder
Authors: Wedemeyer Friederike , Kaminski Jakob A. , Zillich Lea , Hall Alisha S. M. , Friedel Eva , Witt Stephanie H. 
Published: September 2020

AbstractPurpose of ReviewIn this study, we illustrate recent findings regarding the genetics and epigenetics of alcohol use disorder (AUD). We further outline the future direction of genetic and epigenetic research in AUD.Recent FindingsRecent genome- and epigenome-wide studies allow new insight into genetic and epigenetic variation associated with AUD. The largest EWAS of AUD so far/to date found evidence for altered glucocorticoid receptor regulation. Longitudinal studies provide insight into the dynamics of the disease. Analyses of postmortem brain tissue reveal the impact of chronic alcohol consumption on DNA methylation in the brain.SummaryGenetic and environmental factors—mediated via epigenetic mechanisms—play an important role in AUD. Although knowledge of the biological underpinnings of AUD is still limited, ongoing research will ultimately lead to the development of biomarkers for disease classification, course of disease, and treatment response to support personalized medicine in the future.
Ricci curvature of random and empirical directed hypernetworks
Authors: Leal Wilmer , Eidi Marzieh , Jost Jürgen 
Published: September 2020

AbstractRelationships in real systems are often not binary, but of a higher order, and therefore cannot be faithfully modelled by graphs, but rather need hypergraphs. In this work, we systematically develop formal tools for analyzing the geometry and the dynamics of hypergraphs. In particular, we show that Ricci curvature concepts, inspired by the corresponding notions of Forman and Ollivier for graphs, are powerful tools for probing the local geometry of hypergraphs. In fact, these two curvature concepts complement each other in the identification of specific connectivity motifs. In order to have a baseline model with which we can compare empirical data, we introduce a random model to generate directed hypergraphs and study properties such as degree of nodes and edge curvature, using numerical simulations. We can then see how our notions of curvature can be used to identify connectivity patterns in the metabolic network of E. coli that clearly deviate from those of our random model. Specifically, by applying hypergraph shuffling to this metabolic network we show that the changes in the wiring of a hypergraph can be detected by Forman Ricci and Ollivier Ricci curvatures.
The Future of Penile Prosthetic Surgical Training Is Here: Design of a Hydrogel Model for Inflatable Penile Prosthetic Placement Using Modern Education Theory
Authors: Witthaus Michael W. , Saba Patrick , Melnyk Rachel , Ajay Divya , Ralph David , Van Renterghem Koenraad , Warren Gareth , Munarriz Ricardo , Ghazi Ahmed 
Published: September 2020

Abstract

Background
There is a significant need for a non-biohazardous, educational platform to equip and maintain the surgical skills required by urology trainees and low-volume implanters for inflatable penile prosthetic (IPP) placement.

Aim
To design and develop an anatomic, hydrogel-based simulation platform for training and evaluate IPP placement using modern education theory.

Methods
The backward design concept was used as a framework in the design and development of an IPP simulation platform. Steps included delineating requirements from a physicians’ perspective, translating requirements into engineering tasks (deliverables), developing a prototype, and pilot validation. Using a combination of 3-dimensional printing and hydrogel casting, a genitourinary tract model was constructed to replicate the appropriate steps of IPP placement guided by expert feedback. Full-immersion IPP simulations were performed through both infrapubic and penoscrotal approaches by 4 expert surgeons under operative conditions. Questionnaires evaluating the simulation’s realism, value as a training tool, and further recommendations were completed.

Outcomes
Using backward design educational pedagogy, a high-fidelity, full-procedural IPP simulation was fabricated and verified as an adequate educational tool for training and assessment.

Results
An expert consensus on the anatomic landmarks, steps and substeps, instruments, and errors to be included in the model was reached using a hierarchical task analysis and was successfully translated into a prototype hydrogel model. Experts performed all appropriate steps of IPP surgery and rated the simulation highly in terms of its realism and value as a training tool. On average, experts agreed that the model could function as a training tool, assessment tool, prerequisite for IPP accreditation, and requirement before live surgery. Experts stated they would have their trainees ideally complete an average of 1.75 models before live surgical training. All experts believed an operative checklist would be an ideal assessment tool.
Characterization of the Renin-Angiotensin System in Aged Cavernosal Tissue and its Role in Penile Fibrosis
Authors: Bragina Maiia E. , Costa-Fraga Fabiana , Sturny Mikaël , Ebadi Babak , Ruoccolo Rafael T. , Santos Robson A.S. , Fraga-Silva Rodrigo A. , Stergiopulos Nikolaos 
Published: September 2020

Abstract

Background
The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) plays an important role in erectile function. The RAS contains 2 major axes: one deleterious, composed of ACE-Ang II-AT1 receptor, and another protective, composed of ACE2-Ang-(1-7)-Mas receptor. While aging is a well-known cause for development of male sexual disorders, little is known about local regulation of the RAS in age-related erectile dysfunction (ED).

Aim
The present study aimed to assess regulation of the RAS in aging-associated ED rat model and evaluate possible options for disease management through pharmacological modulation of the RAS.

Methods
Penile tissues were harvested from 3-, 12-, and 24-month-old Wistar rats. Local expression of major RAS components and ED markers was measured by RT-PCR. Protein expression of RAS components was assessed by western blot. Collagen deposition was measured by Sirius Red and immunohistochemical staining. Evaluation of collagen content was also performed in penile sections of Mas-knockout mice by Sirius Red and Masson’s trichrome stainings. Finally, the effect of Ang-(1-7) pretreatment on TGF-β–induced myofibroblast activation was studied in primary cavernosal and immortalized fibroblasts.

Outcomes
Experimental results highlighted the essential role of the RAS in modulation of cavernosal fibrosis.

Results
The present study demonstrates local expression of angiotensinogen mRNA alongside with major RAS components, which suggests local autonomous functioning of the RAS within penile tissue. Gene expression analysis revealed strong positive correlation between ACE-Ang II-AT1 axis with markers for inflammation and fibrosis. While corpus cavernosum from 24-month-old rats was characterized by increased collagen deposition, protein expression of ACE, AT1, and Mas was shown to be upregulated in the penile tissue of this group. At the same time, penile sections from Mas-knockout mice (FVB/N background) were also shown to have increased collagen deposition. Finally, it was demonstrated that Ang-(1-7) treatment of primary cavernosal and immortalized fibroblasts was able to alleviate TGF-β–induced fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition.

Clinical Translation
The present study suggests Ang-(1-7) treatment as a possible strategy for pharmacological management of fibrosis-associated ED in aging.

Strengths & Limitations
The link between the RAS and penile fibrosis, indicated by a holistic screening of different ED markers, was confirmed by in vivo and in vitro data. However, results, presented in the manuscript, need to be further reinforced by human data. Important to note, the main goal of the study was to characterize RAS regulation in aging condition rather than state any causal relationships.

Conclusion
Present study characterizes RAS regulation in aging-associated ED and indicates its important role in cavernosal fibrosis.