bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of thoracic vertebrae in healthy White New Zealand rabbit (Oryctolagus Cuniculus): Computed tomographic and morphometric study
Authors: Soroori Sarang , Zehtabvar Omid , Amiri Banafsheh Shateri , Rostami Amir , Vali Yasamin
Published: June 2022

Background

Computed tomography currently has a prominent role in diagnosis and evaluation of vertebral column. On the other hand, a thorough knowledge about vertebral column property in normal state is prerequisite an accurate diagnosis of different abnormalities in this region.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to present a complete and exact descriptive and morphometric evaluation of thoracic vertebrae in rabbits with computed tomography. In images which were constructed by CT, several structures and different parts of the thoracic vertebrae have been named.

Methods

Ten healthy, mature, White New Zealand rabbits were evaluated. The morphologic and morphometric parameters of the thoracic vertebrae were studied. In this study, several parameters of thoracic vertebrae, such as vertebral body height, spinous process height, transverse process length, transverse process width, etc., were measured by computed tomography.

Results

Some parameters, such as spinal canal height, spinal canal width, pedicle length, pedicle width, end plate width, and endplate height, had no significant difference through thoracic vertebrae but other parameters, such as vertebral body height, transverse process length, transverse process width, spinous process angle, transverse process angle, and vertebral body length, had a significant difference.

Conclusions

In this study, a comprehensive anatomic atlas of CT anatomy of the thoracic vertebrae was produced for use by veterinary radiologists, clinicians, and surgeons. Finally, we must mention these two important points: (1) Many of the differences observed between rabbits and humans are based on the way the trunks of these two creatures are located on the ground and the differences in the way their bodies move. (2) In studies that are done by modelling humans on animals, it should be noted that the terms used in animal anatomy are different and the names are used using the principles of veterinary anatomy.
A novel survey design for modeling species distribution of beavers in Algonquin Park, Canada
Authors: Thompson Connor A. , Benson John F. , Patterson Brent R.
Published: June 2022

Understanding spatial and temporal variation in beaver abundance is a central goal for a wide range of management issues, ranging from species reintroductions to mitigation of environmental and economic impacts. Yet due to high costs associated with surveys, many studies are limited to a single regional estimate, or a complete census of a smaller study area extrapolated to the surrounding landscape. We present a survey design that allows for predicting beaver abundance across the broader landscape through interpolation. In October 2019, we conducted an aerial survey in a 15,000 km2 study area around Algonquin Provincial Park in Ontario, Canada. We counted 145 colonies on 73 plots that averaged 4.5 km2 (+/−3.27 SD). Our regional estimate for beaver abundance of 0.55 (95% CI = +/−0.18) colonies/km2 is comparable to historical surveys conducted in the region in the 1970s. We then predicted beaver abundance in unsampled plots using a Poisson generalized additive model (adjusted R2 = 0.81, deviance explained = 55.9%) that included non‐linear responses to elevation (P < 0.001), shoreline complexity (P = 0.003), and availability of shade‐tolerant hardwoods (P = 0.001). Our species distribution model predicted strong east‐west patterns in beaver abundance across the study region associated with spatial patterns in elevation and forest composition.
Can camera traps be used to differentiate species of North American flying squirrels?
Authors: Diggins Corinne A. , Lipford Aylett , Farwell Travis , Eline Drew V. , Larose Summer H. , Kelly Christine A. , Clucas Barbara
Published: June 2022

Camera traps are becoming an increasingly important tool to survey wildlife populations. However, the application of camera trapping for reliable species identification between nondistinctive, morphologically similar sympatric species is untested for most small mammals, including North American flying squirrels (Glaucomys spp.). Camera traps are a successful monitoring technique where flying squirrel species are allopatric, however there are zones of sympatry between Humboldt's flying squirrel (HFS, G. oregonensis) and northern flying squirrel (NFS, G. sabrinus) in the Pacific Northwest and NFS and southern flying squirrels (SFS, G. volans) in eastern North America. We used camera trap data collected during flying squirrel surveys in 2013–2020 at 59 sites in California, North Carolina, and Virginia, USA, to determine if a reliable method could be used to differentiate the species. With a subset of 100 high‐quality, independent capture events per species (50 of dorsal views, 50 of lateral views), we used body measurements and pelage characteristics to differentiate species using random forest classification models. Our models predicted species identification accuracy rates of 90.9% for dorsal views and 68.2% for lateral views. Species misclassification rates between HFS and NFS were 23.5% for dorsal views and 26.5% for lateral views, whereas misclassification rates between NFS and SFS were 16.6% for dorsal views and 5.7% for lateral views. Although misclassification rates were lower than we expected between NFS and SFS, we are cautious about recommending camera trapping as opposed to ultrasonic acoustics for North American flying squirrel species identification, especially in areas of species sympatry due to potential false positive rates and high numbers of unusable images. However, camera trap settings and white‐flash photography should be explored to determine their potential for improving flying squirrel species classification rates and the percentage of usable photos.
A compendium of validated pain genes
Authors: Wistrom Eric , Chase Rebecca , Smith Patrick R. , Campbell Zachary T.
Published: June 2022

The development of novel pain therapeutics hinges on the identification and rigorous validation of potential targets. Model organisms provide a means to test the involvement of specific genes and regulatory elements in pain. Here we provide a list of genes linked to pain‐associated behaviors. We capitalize on results spanning over three decades to identify a set of 242 genes. They support a remarkable diversity of functions spanning action potential propagation, immune response, GPCR signaling, enzymatic catalysis, nucleic acid regulation, and intercellular signaling. Making use of existing tissue and single‐cell high‐throughput RNA sequencing datasets, we examine their patterns of expression. For each gene class, we discuss archetypal members, with an emphasis on opportunities for additional experimentation. Finally, we discuss how powerful and increasingly ubiquitous forward genetic screening approaches could be used to improve our ability to identify pain genes.

This article is categorized under:

Neurological Diseases > Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics

Neurological Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology
Social Constructivist International Relations and the Military
Authors: Agius Christine
Published: June 2022

Captured by Alexander Wendt’s now-famous maxim “anarchy is what states make of it,” social constructivism is the idea that the world “out there” is not given, as realists would argue, but rather, “socially constructed.” In doing so, social constructivism places a focus on the importance of “mutual constitution”: international politics is shaped by both structures, such as anarchy, or agents, such as states and other actors. Structures and agents influence each other. Moreover, social constructivism emphasizes social relations in global politics, and sees security and international politics as determined by ideas as well as material factors. The identity of agents such as states matter because identity helps determine national interests. As states interact with other actors in the international system, their ideas and identity can change over time, which can produce a more dynamic understanding of international relations. This chapter will take the reader through the key ideas of social constructivism – also referred to as “constructivism” in this chapter – showing how norms, culture, and ideas about identity shape actors, condition their relations with each other, and can impact the so-called “given” nature of international relations and transform understandings of power relations. Social constructivism can also help make sense of security and military phenomena, such as alliances and threat perceptions, or why states go to war. This chapter will also cover the different branches of constructivist thought and the main critiques of constructivism to highlight its key contributions and the problems it also raises.
The Responsibility of Science for Guaranteeing Human Rights in the Fight Against Human Degradation, Racism and Anti-Semitism
Authors: Fuchs-Kittowski Klaus
Published: June 2022

This article is an appeal in the form of ten questions or theses, which as a whole outline the responsibility of science. 1) The humanistic mission of science, respecting human rights, against reductionism; 2) Against reification and the degradation of the living; 3) Information creation: An essential category for model and theory development and as a general methodological guiding principle! 4) The need for education and training against racism: The responsibility of science in the fight against anti-Semitism; 5) Deadly science: The demand for the destruction of life unworthy of life was “scientifically” justified; 6) Religious traditions as a cause of anti-Semitism? 7) Causes of anti-humanism, racism, anti-Semitism, and neo-Nazism in the contemporary world of work; A deeper “perception” of life and human beings is also necessary in the economy! 8) People must be able to recognize the meaning and purpose of their existence 9) Peace must be secured! 10) Science can follow its humanistic obligation to serve life, to serve mankind.
The Ambivalences of the Digital—Humans and Technology Between New Dreams/Spaces of Possibility and (Un)Noticeable Losses
Authors: Graßl Hartmut , Bauberger Stefan , Behrens Johann , Bleckmann Paula , Engels Rainer , Göpel Eberhard , Korczak Dieter , Lankau Ralf , Schmiedchen Frank
Published: June 2022

Every new technology is used by us humans almost without hesitation. Usually the military use comes first. Examples from recent history are the use of chemical weapons by Germany in the First World War and of atomic bombs in the Second World War by the US. Now, with the rapid advances in microelectronics over the past few decades, a wave of its application, called digitization, is spreading around the world with barely any control mechanisms. In many areas this has simplified and enriched our lives, but it has also encouraged abuse. The adaptation of legislation to contain the obvious excesses of “digitization” such as hate mail and anonymous threats is lagging behind massively. We hear almost nothing about technology assessment through systematic research; it is demanded at most by a few, usually small groups in civil society, which draw attention to the threats to humankind—future and present—and the Earth's ecosystem. One such group, the Federation of German Scientists (VDW) e.V., in the spirit of the responsibility of science for the peaceful and considered application of the possibilities it creates, asked three of its study groups to jointly organize its 2019 Annual Conference. The study groups “Health in Social Change,” “Education and Digitization,” and “Technology Assessment of Digitization” formulated the following position paper for the 2019 VDW Annual Conference, entitled “Ambivalences of the Digital.”
The Principle of Responsive Adjustment in Corporate Moral Responsibility: The Crash on Mount Erebus
Authors: French Peter A.
Published: June 2022

The tragic crash of Air New Zealand flight TE-901 into Mt. Erebus, Antarctica provides a fascinating case for the exploration of the notion of corporate moral responsibility. A principle of accountability that has Aristotelian roots and is significantly different from the usual strict intentional action principles is examined and defined. That principle maintains that a person can be held morally accountable for previous non-intentional behavior that had harmful effects if the person does not subsequently take corrective measures to adjust their behavior so as not to produce repetitions. This principle is then applied to the Mt. Erebus disaster.
The Application of the Precautionary Principle in the EU
Authors: De Smedt Kristel , Vos Ellen
Published: June 2022

The precautionary principle is a guiding principle that allows decision makers to adopt precautionary measures even when scientific uncertainties about environmental and health impacts of new technologies or products remain. It is also a debated principle. Proponents of the precautionary principle argue that it provides a framework for improving the quality and reliability of decisions over technology, science, ecological and human health, and leads to improved regulation. Opponents argue that it is incoherent, lacking orientation and that it hinders innovation. The aim of this Chapter is to increase understanding of the perceived tension between the precautionary principle and innovation by examining how the precautionary principle is applied in EU law and by the EU courts. This Chapter is based on the findings of an EU-funded research project entitled REconciling sCience, Innovation and Precaution through the Engagement of Stakeholders (RECIPES).
Knowledge Production for the SDGs: Developing the Global Indicators
Authors: Bandola-Gill Justyna , Grek Sotiria , Tichenor Marlee
Published: June 2022

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) entail several innovations, not only in relation to their governing architecture but also in terms of the production of governing knowledge for global challenges. This chapter explores the epistemic practices by International Organisations (IOs) and working groups organised by the United Nations Statistical Commission, aimed at producing, valuing and legitimising (quantified) knowledge for global governance. In particular, this chapter discusses the ways in which indicators are proposed, deliberated and refined, and how conflicts over various indicators within the Sustainable Development Goals’ framework emerge and are solved. In order to do so, this chapter explores the intersection of social and epistemic practices of knowledge production by experts in IOs by tending to the role of the reclassification of indicators in terms of their technical robustness and the generative potential of such processes for shaping and enabling the SDG agenda.
Expert Brokers: SDGs and the Emergence of New Forms of Expertise
Authors: Bandola-Gill Justyna , Grek Sotiria , Tichenor Marlee
Published: June 2022

This chapter explores the changing nature and scope of expertise of International Organisations (IOs) in the SDG agenda. The central role of the experts in IOs in the process of governance of the SDGs lies not solely in providing technical guidance but rather in mediation and brokerage between actors and fields. As such, the legitimacy and effectiveness of experts in IOs rely on their ability to mediate connections, create and communicate common meanings of problems and integrate multiple bodies of knowledge. This chapter offers a theorisation of these new forms of expertise and the rise of ‘expert brokers’ in this setting.
Epistemic Infrastructures: SDGs and the Making of Global Public Policy
Authors: Bandola-Gill Justyna , Grek Sotiria , Tichenor Marlee
Published: June 2022

In this concluding chapter, we propose a theorisation of an epistemic infrastructure in the context of the SDGs. Epistemic infrastructure, we argue, emerges on three conceptual levels. The first order of the epistemic infrastructure entails the materialities of measurement—the building blocks of the infrastructure such as data, indicators, visualisations, reports, etc. The second order involves the interlinkages—networks and connections linking experts, decision-makers, civil societies, activists, etc. The third level of infrastructure is the new governing paradigm, transforming global policy spaces. The key argument put forward in this chapter (and book overall) is that the process of global public policymaking is one ofinfrastructuring—creating and maintaining an epistemic infrastructure around the problems of sustainable development.
Exploring the ground state spectrum of γ-deformed N = 4 SYM
Authors: Levkovich-Maslyuk Fedor , Preti Michelangelo
Published: June 2022

Abstract

We study the γ-deformation of the planar $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 super Yang-Mills theory which breaks all supersymmetries but is expected to preserve integrability of the model. We focus on the operator Tr (ϕ1ϕ1) built from two scalars, whose integrability description has been questioned before due to contributions from double-trace counterterms. We show that despite these subtle effects, the integrability-based Quantum Spectral Curve (QSC) framework works perfectly for this state and in particular reproduces the known 1-loop prediction. This resolves an earlier controversy concerning this operator and provides further evidence that the γ-deformed model is an integrable CFT at least in the planar limit. We use the QSC to compute the first 5 weak coupling orders of the anomalous dimension analytically, matching known results in the fishnet limit, and also compute it numerically all the way from weak to strong coupling. We also utilize this data to extract a new coefficient of the beta function of the double-trace operator couplings.
Vitamin K1 inhibits ferroptosis and counteracts a detrimental effect of phenprocoumon in experimental acute kidney injury
Authors: Kolbrink Benedikt , von Samson-Himmelstjerna Friedrich Alexander , Messtorff Maja Lucia , Riebeling Theresa , Nische Raphael , Schmitz Jessica , Bräsen Jan Hinrich , Kunzendorf Ulrich , Krautwald Stefan
Published: June 2022

Ferroptosis, a type of iron-dependent programmed cell death distinct from apoptosis, necroptosis, and other types of cell death, is characterized by lipid peroxidation, reactive oxygen species production, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Accumulating evidence has highlighted vital roles for ferroptosis in multiple diseases, including acute kidney injury. Therefore, ferroptosis has become a major focus for translational research. However, despite its involvement in pathological conditions, there are no pharmacologic inhibitors of ferroptosis in clinical use. In the context of drug repurposing, a strategy for identifying new uses for approved drugs outside the original medical application, we discovered that vitamin K1 is an efficient inhibitor of ferroptosis. Our findings are strengthened by the fact that the vitamin K antagonist phenprocoumon significantly exacerbated ferroptotic cell death in vitro and also massively worsened the course of acute kidney injury in vivo, which is of utmost clinical importance. We therefore assign vitamin K1 a novel role in preventing ferroptotic cell death in acute tubular necrosis during acute kidney injury. Since the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of vitamin K1 formulations are well documented, this drug is primed for clinical application, and provides a new strategy for pharmacological control of ferroptosis and diseases associated with this mode of cell death.
Generalized Bezier components and successive component refinement using moving morphable components
Authors: Shannon T. , Robinson T. T. , Murphy A. , Armstrong C. G.
Published: June 2022

This paper demonstrates developments that introduce generalized Bezier components in the Moving Morphable Components (MMC) optimization framework. Methods of enhancing the parameterization of the components to provide the opportunity for a better optimum, than can be achieved using existing approaches, are also described. The use of control points and Bezier curves for representing structural components provides both additional flexibility in the shape and a parameterization that complies with extrude and swept feature-based templates available in commercial computer-aided design (CAD) packages. Methods of representing these structural components, calculating analytical derivatives, and numerical examples demonstrating their integration in the MMC framework, are presented for a series of author-derived and literature problems. A successive refinement technique demonstrates how the additional flexibility in the structural components enables progressive improvement in the objective function. For the examined problems, increasing the design variables per component (from 5 to 15) resulted in solutions with 6% to 36% reduction in compliance. This improvement was achieved without increasing the number of components in the design space.
Geometrical process design during continuous generating grinding of cutting tools
Authors: Denkena Berend , Bergmann Benjamin , Theuer Mirko , Wolters Philipp
Published: June 2022

Modern cutting tools like end mills, drilling tools, and reamers underlie high requirements regarding geometrical accuracy, cutting edge quality, and production costs. However, the potential for process optimization is limited due to the process kinematics during grinding. Consequently, a novel tool grinding process for the manufacture of cutting tools has been developed recently at the Institute for Production Engineering and Machine Tools (IFW). This continuous generating grinding process allows the simultaneous production of all flutes and circumferential flank faces of rotational symmetrical cutting tools. The present paper focuses on the geometrical process design and develops a method to determine the necessary basic rack and process parameters in order to create a desired cutting edge geometry by continuous generating grinding. The developed method can define all parameters with an accuracy of up to 5 µm and 0.2° within a simulation in five iteration steps and allows not only the quantitative design of the cutting tool geometry but a qualitative modification of the flute geometry as well. Subsequently performed grinding tests showed that the presented method allows the design of grinding worms for continuous generating grinding of cutting tools and enables the successful implementation of these processes.
Increased serum anti-CYP2E1 IgG autoantibody levels may be involved in the pathogenesis of occupational trichloroethylene hypersensitivity syndrome: a case–control study
Authors: Nakajima Tamie , Wang Hailan , Yuan Yuan , Ito Yuki , Naito Hisao , Kawamoto Yoshiyuki , Takeda Kozue , Sakai Kiyoshi , Zhao Na , Li Hongling , Qiu Xinxiang , Xia Lihua , Chen Jiabin , Wu Qifeng , Li Laiyu , Huang Hanlin , Yanagiba Yukie , Yatsuya Hiroshi , Kamijima Michihiro
Published: June 2022

Occupational exposure to trichloroethylene (TCE) causes a systemic skin disorder with hepatitis known as TCE hypersensitivity syndrome (TCE-HS). Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA)-B*13:01 is its susceptibility factor; however, the immunological pathogenesis of TCE-HS remains unknown. We herein examined the hypothesis that autoantibodies to CYP2E1 are primarily involved in TCE-HS. A case–control study of 80 TCE-HS patients, 186 TCE-tolerant controls (TCE-TC), and 71 TCE-nonexposed controls (TCE-nonEC) was conducted to measure their serum anti-CYP2E1 antibody (IgG) levels. The effects of TCE exposure indices, such as 8-h time-weighted-average (TWA) airborne concentrations, urinary metabolite concentrations, and TCE usage duration; sex; smoking and drinking habits; and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels on the antibody levels were also analyzed in the two control groups. There were significant differences in anti-CYP2E1 antibody levels among the three groups: TCE-TC > TCE-HS patients > TCE-nonEC. Antibody levels were not different between HLA-B*13:01 carriers and noncarriers in TCE-HS patients and TCE-TC. The serum CYP2E1 measurement suggested increased immunocomplex levels only in patients with TCE-HS. Multiple regression analysis for the two control groups showed that the antibody levels were significantly higher by the TCE exposure. Women had higher antibody levels than men; however, smoking, drinking, and ALT levels did not affect the anti-CYP2E1 antibody levels. Anti-CYP2E1 antibodies were elevated at concentrations lower than the TWA concentration of 2.5 ppm for TCE exposure. Since HLA-B*13:01 polymorphism was not involved in the autoantibody levels, the possible mechanism underlying the pathogenesis of TCE-HS is that TCE exposure induces anti-CYP2E1 autoantibody production, and HLA-B*13:01 is involved in the development of TCE-HS.
The effects of alcohol and co-witness information on memory reports: a field study
Authors: Bartlett Georgina , Albery Ian P. , Frings Daniel , Gawrylowicz Julie
Published: June 2022

Rationale

Witnesses who discuss a crime together may report details that they did not see themselves but heard about from their co-witness. Co-witness information may have beneficial and harmful effects on memory accuracy depending on whether the information was correct or incorrect.

Objectives

Given the prevalence of intoxicated witnesses, it is imperative to understand how alcohol influences this effect.

Methods

The present study asked pubgoers (n = 67) at varying levels of intoxication to recall a mock crime video after having also watched a video witness statement containing both correct and false information.

Results

Increased intoxication was associated with decreased confidence, completeness and accuracy, but no increased tendency to report false information. Exposure to incorrect post-event information (PEI) can lead to the incorporation of incorrect information, whereas exposure to correct PEI increased accuracy, regardless of individuals’ alcohol intoxication status.

Conclusions

Thus, whilst discussion and intoxication can negatively impact eyewitness memory, discussion may also have benefits for both sober and intoxicated witnesses.
Anatomy for right ventricular lead implantation
Authors: Israel Carsten W. , Tribunyan Sona , Yen Ho S. , Cabrera José A.
Published: June 2022

To understand the position of a pacing lead in the right ventricle and to correctly interpret fluoroscopy and intracardiac signals, good anatomical knowledge is required. The right ventricle can be separated into an inlet, an outlet, and an apical compartment. The inlet and outlet are separated by the septomarginal trabeculae, while the apex is situated below the moderator band. A lead position in the right ventricular apex is less desirable, last but not least due to the thin myocardial wall. Many leads supposed to be implanted in the apex are in fact fixed rather within the trabeculae in the inlet, which are sometimes difficult to pass. In the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT), the free wall is easier to reach than the septal due to the fact that the RVOT wraps around the septum. A mid-septal position close to the moderator band is relatively simple to achieve and due to the vicinity of the right bundle branch may produce a narrower paced QRS complex. Special and detailed knowledge is necessary for His bundle and left bundle branch pacing.
Combination therapy of doxorubicin and Sildenafil inhibits the growth of pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma
Authors: Urla Cristian , Stagno Matias Julian , Fuchs Jörg , Warmann Steven Walter , Schmid Evi
Published: June 2022

Background

Overexpression of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) has been detected in many types of malignant tumors. Sildenafil, a potent and selective inhibitor of a cGMP-specific PDE5, has been found to enhance the cytotoxic activity of different chemotherapeutic agents including doxorubicin. The combined therapy of doxorubicin with Sildenafil might reduce the possible side effects of chemotherapy while maintaining synergistic anticancer activity. The present study explored for the first time the effects of Sildenafil, alone and in combination with doxorubicin, on pediatric RMS cells.

Methods

Human RMS cells lines RH30 and RD were used. Western blotting and RT-PCR were performed to analyze PDE5 expression in RMS cells. Cell viability was determined using MTT assay. Cell migration was analyzed via transwell chambers, clonal growth and mitotic cell death were analyzed using the clonogenic assay. FACS analysis was performed to evaluate reactive oxygen species (ROS) and apoptosis.

Results

Sildenafil significantly decreased cell viability and migration of RD and RH30 cells. The exposure of RMS cells to doxorubicin resulted in a dose-dependent decrease in their viability. Simultaneous administration of Sildenafil enhanced this effect. The incubation of the RMS cells with Sildenafil in the presence of doxorubicin significantly increased the proportion of apoptotic cells and ROS production compared to the treatment with Sildenafil alone.

Conclusions

The results of our study indicate a link between PDE5 inhibition by Sildenafil and decreased calcium signalling leading to significantly impaired viability, migration, and colony forming of RMS cells. Increased ROS production and apoptosis are mechanisms relevantly contributing to this observation.
Evaluation of the precision of navigation-assisted endoscopy according to the navigation tool setup and the type of endoscopes
Authors: Chavaz Lara , Davidovic Alioucha , Meling Torstein R. , Momjian Shahan , Schaller Karl , Bijlenga Philippe , Haemmerli Julien
Published: June 2022

Object

Preoperative image-based neuronavigation-assisted endoscopy during intracranial procedures is gaining great interest. This study aimed to analyze the precision of navigation-assisted endoscopy according to the navigation setup, the type of optic and its working angulation.

Methods

A custom-made box with four screws was referenced. The navigation-assisted endoscope was aligned on the screws (targets). The precision on the navigation screen was defined as the virtual distance-to-target between the tip of the endoscope and the center of the screws. Three modifiers were assessed: (1) the distance D between the box and the reference array (CLOSE 13 cm – MIDDLE 30 cm – FAR 53 cm), (2) the distance between the tip of the endoscope and the navigation array on the endoscope (close 5 cm – middle 10 cm – far 20 cm), (3) the working angulation of the endoscope (0°-endoscope and 30°-endoscope angled at 90° and 45° with the box).

Results

The median precision was 1.3 mm (Q1: 1.1; Q3: 1.7) with the best setting CLOSE/close. The best setting in surgical condition (CLOSE/far) showed a distance-to-target of 2.3 mm (Q1: 1.9; Q3: 2.5). The distance D was correlated to the precision (Spearman rho = 0.82), but not the distance d (Spearman rho = 0.04). The type of optic and its angulation with the box were also correlated to the precision (Spearman rho =  − 0.37). The best setting was the use of a 30°-endoscope angled at 45° (1.4 mm (Q1: 1.0; Q3: 1.9)).

Conclusion

Navigated-assisted endoscopy is feasible and offers a good precision. The navigation setup should be optimized, reducing the risk of inadvertent perifocal damage.
The wage effects of offshoring to the East and West: evidence from the German labor market
Authors: Koerner Konstantin
Published: June 2022

This paper analyzes the labor market effects of offshoring in a high-wage home country and how these effects crucially depend on (1) Job complexity and (2) The characteristics of the destination country. It thereby links several sources: rich administrative data on individuals and plants in the German manufacturing industries, information on a job's task bundle, and the evolution of imported inputs from low- or high-wage destinations, which are represented by Eastern and Western Europe, respectively. Offshoring to these origins has opposing effects on German wages with respect to the relative task complexity of jobs: While offshoring to the West puts pressure on the wages of complex jobs and increases the wages of simple jobs, offshoring to the East entails the opposite effect. The overall effect adds up to a 4.2 percent increase in wages for jobs with high complexity, while low-complexity jobs see a 3.9 percent decrease in wages.
Does import competition drive productivity growth? Evidence from Hungary’s pre-accession import tariffs
Authors: Maduko Franklin
Published: June 2022

This paper studies the effect of increased competition from imports on the productivity of firms. It proposes an empirical model that estimates productivity from sales revenue. The model addresses concerns associated with unobserved prices and demand conditions in revenue productivity. Unlike De Loecker (Econometrica 79(5):1407–1451, 2011), the model builds on recent evidence on the effect of exporting on firm-level prices by distinguishing between the export and domestic demand markets and integrating both in the supply function of firms. It applies this framework to study the effect that tariffs reduction on EU imports had on the efficiency of manufacturing firms in Hungary during the period 1996–2003, and finds that a 10-percentage point reduction in import tariffs on similar products manufactured by a firm raises the firm’s productivity by 1.40%. This is in contrast to 2.35% when revenue productivity is used. The proposed model provides a simple framework that improves productivity estimates from sales data.
Ethnic disparities attributed to the manifestation in and response to type 2 diabetes: insights from metabolomics
Authors: Vasishta Sampara , Ganesh Kailash , Umakanth Shashikiran , Joshi Manjunath B
Published: June 2022

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) associated health disparities among different ethnicities have long been known. Ethnic variations also exist in T2D related comorbidities including insulin resistance, vascular complications and drug response. Genetic heterogeneity, dietary patterns, nutrient metabolism and gut microbiome composition attribute to ethnic disparities in both manifestation and progression of T2D. These factors differentially regulate the rate of metabolism and metabolic health. Metabolomics studies have indicated significant differences in carbohydrate, lipid and amino acid metabolism among ethnicities. Interestingly, genetic variations regulating lipid and amino acid metabolism might also contribute to inter-ethnic differences in T2D. Comprehensive and comparative metabolomics analysis between ethnicities might help to design personalized dietary regimen and newer therapeutic strategies. In the present review, we explore population based metabolomics data to identify inter-ethnic differences in metabolites and discuss how (a) genetic variations, (b) dietary patterns and (c) microbiome composition may attribute for such differences in T2D.
Computational simulation of the flow dynamic field in a porous ureteric stent
Authors: Yang Xiaohan , Mosayyebi Ali , Carugo Dario
Published: June 2022

Ureteric stents are employed clinically to manage urinary obstructions or other pathological conditions. Stents made of porous and biodegradable materials have gained increasing interest, because of their excellent biocompatibility and the potential for overcoming the so-called ‘forgotten stent syndrome’. However, there is very limited characterisation of their flow dynamic performance. In this study, a CFD model of the occluded and unoccluded urinary tract was developed to investigate the urinary flow dynamics in the presence of a porous ureteric stent. With increasing the permeability of the porous material (i.e., from 10−18 to 10−10 m2) both the total mass flow rate through the ureter and the average fluid velocity within the stent increased. In the unoccluded ureter, the total mass flow rate increased of 7.7% when a porous stent with permeability of 10−10 m2 was employed instead of an unporous stent. Drainage performance further improved in the presence of a ureteral occlusion, with the porous stent resulting in 10.2% greater mass flow rate compared to the unporous stent. Findings from this study provide fundamental insights into the flow performance of porous ureteric stents, with potential utility in the development pipeline of these medical devices.

Graphical abstract
A novel pathway to detect muscle-invasive bladder cancer based on integrated clinical features and VI-RADS score on MRI: results of a prospective multicenter study
Authors: Bicchetti Marco , Simone Giuseppe , Giannarini Gianluca , Girometti Rossano , Briganti Alberto , Brunocilla Eugenio , Cardone Gianpiero , De Cobelli Francesco , Gaudiano Caterina , Del Giudice Francesco , Flammia Simone , Leonardo Costantino , Pecoraro Martina , Schiavina Riccardo , Catalano Carlo , Panebianco Valeria
Published: June 2022

Purpose

To determine the clinical, pathological, and radiological features, including the Vesical Imaging-Reporting and Data System (VI-RADS) score, independently correlating with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (BCa), in a multicentric national setting.

Method and Materials

Patients with BCa suspicion were offered magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) before trans-urethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT). According to VI-RADS, a cutoff of ≥ 3 or ≥ 4 was assumed to define muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). Trans-urethral resection of the tumor (TURBT) and/or cystectomy reports were compared with preoperative VI-RADS scores to assess accuracy of MRI for discriminating between non-muscle-invasive versus MIBC. Performance was assessed by ROC curve analysis. Two univariable and multivariable logistic regression models were implemented including clinical, pathological, radiological data, and VI-RADS categories to determine the variables with an independent effect on MIBC.

Results

A final cohort of 139 patients was enrolled (median age 70 [IQR: 64, 76.5]). MRI showed sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and accuracy for MIBC diagnosis ranging from 83–93%, 80–92%, 67–81%, 93–96%, and 84–89% for the more experienced readers. The area under the curve (AUC) was 0.95 (0.91–0.99). In the multivariable logistic regression model, the VI-RADS score, using both a cutoff of 3 and 4 (P < .0001), hematuria (P = .007), tumor size (P = .013), and concomitant hydronephrosis (P = .027) were the variables correlating with a bladder cancer staged as ≥ T2. The inter-reader agreement was substantial (k = 0.814).

Conclusions

VI-RADS assessment scoring proved to be an independent predictor of muscle-invasiveness, which might implicate a shift toward a more aggressive selection approach of patients’ at high risk of MIBC, according to a novel proposed predictive pathway.
Differentiating solitary brain metastases from high-grade gliomas with MR: comparing qualitative versus quantitative diagnostic strategies
Authors: Voicu Ioan Paul , Pravatà Emanuele , Panara Valentina , Navarra Riccardo , Mattei Peter A. , Caulo Massimo
Published: June 2022

Purpose

To investigate the diagnostic efficacy of MRI diagnostic algorithms with an ascending automatization, in distinguishing between high-grade glioma (HGG) and solitary brain metastases (SBM).

Methods

36 patients with histologically proven HGG (n = 18) or SBM (n = 18), matched by size and location were enrolled from a database containing 655 patients. Four different diagnostic algorithms were performed serially to mimic the clinical setting where a radiologist would typically seek out further findings to reach a decision: pure qualitative, analytic qualitative (based on standardized evaluation of tumor features), semi-quantitative (based on perfusion and diffusion cutoffs included in the literature) and a quantitative data-driven algorithm of the perfusion and diffusion parameters. The diagnostic yields of the four algorithms were tested with ROC analysis and Kendall coefficient of concordance.

Results

Qualitative algorithm yielded sensitivity of 72.2%, specificity of 78.8%, and AUC of 0.75. Analytic qualitative algorithm distinguished HGG from SBM with a sensitivity of 100%, specificity of 77.7%, and an AUC of 0.889. The semi-quantitative algorithm yielded sensitivity of 94.4%, specificity of 83.3%, and AUC = 0.889. The data-driven algorithm yielded sensitivity = 94.4%, specificity = 100%, and AUC = 0.948. The concordance analysis between the four algorithms and the histologic findings showed moderate concordance for the first algorithm, (k = 0.501, P < 0.01), good concordance for the second (k = 0.798, P < 0.01), and third (k = 0.783, P < 0.01), and excellent concordance for fourth (k = 0.901, p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

When differentiating HGG from SBM, an analytical qualitative algorithm outperformed qualitative algorithm, and obtained similar results compared to the semi-quantitative approach. However, the use of data-driven quantitative algorithm yielded an excellent differentiation.
Internationale Supervisionsforschung revisited: Trends, Highlights und Desiderate
Authors: Schigl Brigitte
Published: June 2022

In dem Beitrag werden eine Analyse der internationalen Supervisionsforschung skizziert und einige Verbindungen zur Coachingforschung angedacht: In einem Literaturreview werden deutsch- und englischsprachige Publikationen empirischer Studien zu Supervision ausgewertet. Dabei werden die Diversität der Definitionen des Forschungsgegenstandes Supervision, Themen und Forschungsanliegen, Forschungsfragen und -methoden erörtert sowie einige interessante Ergebnisse und Designs vorgestellt. Die Schlussfolgerungen verweisen v. a. auf die Notwendigkeit einer stärkeren Vernetzung der community der Supervisionsforscher:innen, um einen State of the Art und body of knowledge zu konstituieren.
How artificiality and intelligence affect voice assistant evaluations
Authors: Guha Abhijit , Bressgott Timna , Grewal Dhruv , Mahr Dominik , Wetzels Martin , Schweiger Elisa
Published: June 2022

Widespread, and growing, use of artificial intelligence (AI)–enabled voice assistants (VAs) creates a pressing need to understand what drives VA evaluations. This article proposes a new framework wherein perceptions of VA artificiality and VA intelligence are positioned as key drivers of VA evaluations. Building from work on signaling theory, AI, technology adoption, and voice technology, the authors conceptualize VA features as signals related to either artificiality or intelligence, which in turn affect VA evaluations. This study represents the first application of signaling theory when examining VA evaluations; also, it is the first work to position VA artificiality and intelligence (cf. other factors) as key drivers of VA evaluations. Further, the paper examines the role of several theory-driven and/ or practice-relevant moderators, relating to the effects of artificiality and intelligence on VA evaluations. The results of these investigations can help firms suitably design their VAs and suitably design segmentation strategies.
Schanuel’s Lemma for Exact Categories
Authors: Mathieu Martin , Rosbotham Michael
Published: June 2022

We prove an injective version of Schanuel’s lemma from homological algebra in the setting of exact categories.
Impact of artificial intelligence in breast cancer screening with mammography
Authors: Dang Lan-Anh , Chazard Emmanuel , Poncelet Edouard , Serb Teodora , Rusu Aniela , Pauwels Xavier , Parsy Clémence , Poclet Thibault , Cauliez Hugo , Engelaere Constance , Ramette Guillaume , Brienne Charlotte , Dujardin Sofiane , Laurent Nicolas
Published: June 2022

Objectives

To demonstrate that radiologists, with the help of artificial intelligence (AI), are able to better classify screening mammograms into the correct breast imaging reporting and data system (BI-RADS) category, and as a secondary objective, to explore the impact of AI on cancer detection and mammogram interpretation time.

Methods

A multi-reader, multi-case study with cross-over design, was performed, including 314 mammograms. Twelve radiologists interpreted the examinations in two sessions delayed by a 4 weeks wash-out period with and without AI support. For each breast of each mammogram, they had to mark the most suspicious lesion (if any) and assign it with a forced BI-RADS category and a level of suspicion or “continuous BI-RADS 100”.

Cohen’s kappa correlation coefficient evaluating the inter-observer agreement for BI-RADS category per breast, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), were used as metrics and analyzed.

Results

On average, the quadratic kappa coefficient increased significantly when using AI for all readers [κ = 0.549, 95% CI (0.528–0.571) without AI and κ = 0.626, 95% CI (0.607–0.6455) with AI]. AUC was significantly improved when using AI (0.74 vs 0.77, p = 0.004). Reading time was not significantly affected for all readers (106 s without AI and vs 102 s with AI; p = 0.754).

Conclusions

When using AI, radiologists were able to better assign mammograms with the correct BI-RADS category without slowing down the interpretation time.
RETALT: review of technologies and overview of design changes
Authors: Marwege Ansgar , Gülhan Ali , Klevanski Josef , Hantz Christian , Karl Sebastian , Laureti Mariasole , De Zaiacomo Gabriele , Vos Jan , Jevons Matthew , Thies Christoph , Krammer Anett , Lichtenberger Marc , Carvalho João , Paixão Sofia
Published: June 2022

RETALT (RETro propulsion Assisted Landing Technologies) is a project funded in the frame of the European Union Horizon 2020 program, that is studying critical key technologies for the vertical landing of launcher configurations with the aid of retro propulsion. In particular Aerodynamics, Aerothermodynamics, Flight Dynamics and Guidance Navigation and Control (GNC), Structures, Mechanisms, Thrust Vector Control and Thermal Protection Systems are investigated in detail in the project. This paper provides an overview of the technological achievements in these different technological areas, with emphasis on the interaction between them. Design changes made to the RETALT1 configuration are laid out in detail. The novel approach of using interstage segments as aerodynamic control surfaces proved to be challenging from the aerodynamics, flight dynamics, mechanical and structural points of view. For this reason, planar fins were introduced as aerodynamic control surfaces in the new base line configuration for RETALT1. The paper concludes with a summary of future steps to be made in the RETALT project to reach the targeted Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of the different key technologies.