bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deformation of Hierarchical Lamellar Structure Formed by a Liquid Crystalline Block Copolymer
Authors: Kuribayashi Junpei , Ishige Ryohei , Hayashi Mikihiro , Tokita Masatoshi
Published: April 2020

The deformation of a structure of alternating liquid crystal (LC)/viscous layers upon being stretched along the normal layer is investigated using highly ordered, near‐single‐crystal lamellar fibers of an LC block copolymer. The block copolymer consists of poly(ethyl methacrylate) (PEMA) segments attached to a main‐chain LC polyester at both ends. The LC block segregates from the PEMA block and forms a smectic LC, laying the layers parallel to the interface with PEMA block lamellae to form a hierarchical layered structure. Deformations on stretching the fiber sample are observed by X‐ray scattering measurements. The fiber deformation causes lamellae to dilate and undulate at elongation ratio (λ) < 1.6, wherein PEMA block lamellae are preferentially dilated to tilt lamellar boundaries. In the dilated LC block lamellae, the smectic layers undulate without changing the layer spacing. With further fiber elongation, the lamellae are folded into a chevron rather than dilated, recovering the lamellar spacing.
Lonicera caerulea L. Polyphenols Alleviate Oxidative Stress‐Induced Intestinal Environment Imbalance and Lipopolysaccharide‐Induced Liver Injury in HFD‐Fed Rats by Regulating the Nrf2/HO‐1/NQO1 and MAPK Pathways
Authors: Li Bin , Cheng Zhen , Sun Xiyun , Si Xu , Gong Ersheng , Wang Yuehua , Tian Jinlong , Shu Chi , Ma Fengming , Li Dongnan , Meng Xianjun
Published: April 2020

Scope

This study investigates the modulatory effects of Lonicera caerulea L. polyphenols (LCPs) on the intestinal environment and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced liver injury via the nuclear factor erythroid‐2‐related factor 2/heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1)/NQO1 and mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways in a rat model of oxidative stress damage (OSD).

Methods and results

To examine the prebiotic properties of LCP, a model of high‐fat‐diet‐induced OSD is established using Sprague Dawley rats. In the colon, treatment with LCP for 8 weeks ameliorates enhanced intestinal permeability (glucagon‐like peptide‐2 content and occludin protein increase, whereas claudin‐2 protein decreases), intestinal inflammation (levels of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor‐α, interleukin‐6, cyclooxygenase‐2, and nuclear factor kappa‐B p65 (NF‐κB p65), decrease), and intestinal OSD (through regulation of the Nrf2/HO‐1/NQO1 pathway). Moreover, LCP alleviates LPS‐induced liver injury by suppressing the nuclear translocation of NF‐κB p65 and activation of the MAPK signaling pathway. Additionally, Bacilli, Lactobacillales, Lactobacillaceae, Lactobacillus, Akkermansia, Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, Rothia, and Blautia are found to be the key intestinal microbial taxa related to intestinal OSD and LPS‐induced liver injury in rats.

Conclusion

LCP treatment potentially modulates the intestinal environment and alleviates liver injury by suppressing oxidative‐stress‐related pathways and altering the composition of the intestinal microbiota.
Scanner invariant representations for diffusion MRI harmonization
Authors: Moyer Daniel , Ver Steeg Greg , Tax Chantal M. W. , Thompson Paul M.
Published: April 2020

Purpose

In the present work, we describe the correction of diffusion‐weighted MRI for site and scanner biases using a novel method based on invariant representation.

Theory and Methods

Pooled imaging data from multiple sources are subject to variation between the sources. Correcting for these biases has become very important as imaging studies increase in size and multi‐site cases become more common. We propose learning an intermediate representation invariant to site/protocol variables, a technique adapted from information theory‐based algorithmic fairness; by leveraging the data processing inequality, such a representation can then be used to create an image reconstruction that is uninformative of its original source, yet still faithful to underlying structures. To implement this, we use a deep learning method based on variational auto‐encoders (VAE) to construct scanner invariant encodings of the imaging data.

Results

To evaluate our method, we use training data from the 2018 MICCAI Computational Diffusion MRI (CDMRI) Challenge Harmonization dataset. Our proposed method shows improvements on independent test data relative to a recently published baseline method on each subtask, mapping data from three different scanning contexts to and from one separate target scanning context.

Conclusions

As imaging studies continue to grow, the use of pooled multi‐site imaging will similarly increase. Invariant representation presents a strong candidate for the harmonization of these data.
Prevalence, subtypes, and correlates of nocturia in the symptoms of Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction Research Network cohort
Authors: Clemens J. Quentin , Wiseman Jonathan B. , Smith Abigail R. , Amundsen Cindy L. , Yang Claire C. , Bradley Megan S. , Kirkali Ziya , Agochukwu Nnenaya Q. , Cameron Anne P. ,   the LURN Study Group
Published: April 2020

Aims

We determined the prevalence, severity, and correlates of nocturia in a large clinical cohort of patients.

Methods

Patients presenting with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) completed 3‐day bladder diaries. Nocturia was quantified based on the mean number of nighttime voids documented over the 3 days. Nocturia subtypes (global polyuria, nocturnal polyuria [NP], reduced global bladder capacity, and reduced nocturnal bladder capacity) were assessed. Bother due to nocturia was measured by the LUTS Tool. Sleep quality was assessed with the Patient‐Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Sleep Scale. Multivariable multinomial regression was used to explore patient characteristics associated with nocturia.

Results

In 502 participants with analyzable diaries (285 men and 217 women), the mean number of nocturia episodes over 3 days was 0 in 103 (20.5%), >0 to <1 in 151 (20.1%), 1 to <2 in 165 (32.9%), and ≥2 in 83 (16.5%). Sixty‐seven percent of the participants with nocturia ≥1 reported significant bother from their nocturia. NP was the most common nocturia subtype and was present in 17% of those with nocturia = 0, 40% of those with nocturia >0 to <1, 65% of those with nocturia 1 to <2%, and 77% with nocturia 2+. Higher degrees of nocturia were associated with male sex, greater sleep disturbance, and a higher likelihood of exhibiting multiple nocturia subtypes.

Conclusions

Nocturia ≥1 occurred in 49% of LUTS patients and caused significant bother in the majority of them. The most common subtype was NP, but a substantial proportion of patients exhibited additional characteristics.
Quantitative measurement of the effect of OH radicals on the surface treatment of polypropylene
Authors: Ono Ryo , Murakami Shinichiro
Published: April 2020

OH and O radicals are considered to be the most important reactive species in polymer surface treatment using plasma. However, the treatment effect of OH and O radicals has not been measured quantitatively due to the difficulty in separating the effects of OH and O from those of many other reactive species produced in plasma. In this study, the effect of OH radicals on the surface treatment of polypropylene (PP) is quantitatively measured using specially designed equipment that was developed in our previous research. The equipment produces OH radicals using vacuum ultraviolet photolysis of water vapor and supplies them to the PP surface while limiting the supply of other reactive species. The water contact angle on the PP surface is decreased by 1° per OH supply of [OH]τ = 7.1 × 1012 s/cm3, where τ is the treatment time.
The role of a multidisciplinary team in a pediatric pulmonary hypertension center
Authors: Whalen Elise , Ely Erin , Brown Anna
Published: April 2020

The multidisciplinary team in a pediatric pulmonary hypertension (PH) center can improve the delivery of care to the PH patient by helping them address the different challenges that correlate to a PH diagnosis. Currently, there are a limited number of accredited pediatric PH centers nationwide, and many healthcare facilities have little experience managing patients with this complex and rare disease. Patients with PH may see providers from multiple medical specialties, inherit a high‐cost burden from their PH medications, and have little community backing due to unfamiliarity of the disease. The multidisciplinary team can embrace these challenges. Through the delineation of tasks and roles within the composition of the team, patients can experience the support, resources, and care they need. The composition of the team can vary from center to center, but it may include an attending physician, advanced practice provider, nurse, dietitian, physiologists, respiratory therapists, social workers, research coordinators, and subspecialty collaboration including cardiology, pulmonology, genetics, psychology, and palliative care. When composing a multidisciplinary team, consider the heterogeneity of the patient population being served. Look at the resources available and overall community familiarity with PH. It is important to know the center's limits and refer to an expert PH center as necessary. The goal for every patient with pulmonary hypertension is to maximize their quality of life and outcomes, and the use of the multidisciplinary team is one approach to reaching this goal.
Dendritic Groups Substituted Kekulé‐Benzene‐Bridged Bis(triarylamine) Mixed‐valence Systems: Syntheses, Characterization and Electronic Coupling Properties
Authors: Ou Ya‐Ping , Wang Aihui , Zhang Fuxing , Hu Fang
Published: April 2020

Alkoxy‐substituted phenyl‐bridged triarylamine compounds 1–3 of three different sizes were synthesized and characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance, elemental analysis, and X‐ray single diffraction. Their electronic coupling properties were investigated by electrochemistry, UV‐vis‐near‐infrared (NIR) spectroscopy, and density functional theory calculations. Electrochemistry experiment results with small potential difference reveal that unresolved electronic coupling occurred between two NAr2 termini. Observable electronic coupling of mixed‐valence 1+–3+ were exhibited by NIR absorptions, and electronic coupling parameter Hab was calculated by the Hush theory formula from experimental characteristic intervalence charge‐transfer transitions. The results revealed that the electron coupling of 1+–3+ gradually increased with the alkoxy size of the substituents (from methoxy to dendritic groups) attached to the central phenyl bridge. These findings are supported by the increasing gradient trend of spin density contributions of bridge linkers (terphenyl) (1+: 23 %; 2+: 30 %; 3+: 38 %) and further prove that introducing protected groups, such as large dendritic groups in bridge cores, can effectively enlarge electronic coupling.
Unusual Side Transformation of Spiro[2,4]hepta‐4,6‐dienes into Fulvene Derivatives During Pd‐Catalyzed Cyclopropanation with Diazomethane
Authors: Shulishov Evgeny V. , Pantyukh Olga A. , Menchikov Leonid G. , Tomilov Yury V.
Published: April 2020

The catalytic cyclopropanation of spiro[2.4]hepta‐4,6‐diene and 1,1,2,2‐tetradeutero‐, 1‐methyl‐, and 1,1‐dimethylspiro[2.4]hepta‐4,6‐dienes on treatment with excess diazomethane in the presence of palladium catalysts, which gives products of double bond dicyclopropanation, is also accompanied by an unusual transformation of the three‐membered ring of the spiro moiety with elimination of the unsubstituted methylene group in the form of ethylene to give the corresponding 5‐methylidenetricyclo[4.1.0.02,4]heptanes (bishomofulvenes). The putative mechanism of the reactions is considered.
Enantioselectivity Enhanced on LDH Layers in Ruthenium Catalyzed Asymmetric Hydrogenation of Acetophenone
Authors: Shi Xiufeng , Xing Bin , Pan Dahai , Fan Binbin , Li Ruifeng
Published: April 2020

A novel heterogeneous catalyst has been developed by immobilizing Ru complexes on layered double hydroxide (LDH) via an electrostatic adsorption method. The prepared hybrid was characterized by a series of physical and chemical techniques, and the results confirmed the successful immobilization of the Ru complexes on the LDH support. The prepared heterogeneous Ru catalyst was found to be more enantioselective than the corresponding homogeneous analogue in the asymmetric hydrogenation of acetophenone and its ee value was 10% higher than that of the homogeneous analogue. Furthermore, the prepared heterogeneous catalyst could be recovered easily and reused at least six times without a significant loss in catalytic activity and selectivity. Density functional theory (DFT) computations revealed the influence of LDH layer on Ru complexes and the enantioselectivity of the immobilized Ru complexes in asymmetric hydrogenation of acetophenone.
Synthesis and Application of Sustainable Furfuryl Alcohol‐based Plasticizer
Authors: Chen Hao , Ding Jiheng , Liang Hongzhe , Yu Haibin
Published: April 2020

The application of green and sustainable plasticizers deriving from natural resources has become a promising way to replace conventional petroleum‐based plasticizers like dioctyl phthalate (DOP). Herein, the environment‐friendly plasticizer dioctyl 1‐((octanoyloxy)methyl)‐7‐oxabicyclo‐[2.2.1] hept‐5‐ene‐2,3‐dicarboxylate (DOMFC) was synthesized from a renewable resource, furfuryl alcohol and maleic anhydride, and its plasticization efficiencies in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) was studied. The tensile strain of PVC‐DOMFC reached about 7.4 times higher than that of pure PVC, which was higher than that of PVC‐DOP composites. Solvent extraction and thermal stability results indicated that the epoxy groups and ester bonds in DOMFC could efficiently increase the plasticizing effect, while the existence of furan rings improved the rigidity of the PVC. This design strategy opens an avenue for fabricating high‐performance green plasticizers to replace DOP.
Extrinsic Ion Distribution Induced Field Effect in CsPbIBr2 Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Yulong , Wang Kai , Subhani Waqas Siddique , Zhang Congqiang , Jiang Xiao , Wang Shimin , Bao Huaxi , Liu Lu , Wan Li , Liu Shengzhong (Frank)
Published: April 2020

Excellent power conversion efficiency (PCE) and stability are the primary forces that propel the all‐inorganic cesium‐based halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs) toward commercialization. However, the intrinsic high density of trap state and internal nonradiative recombination of CsPbIBr2 perovskite film are the barriers that limit its development. In the present study, a facile additive strategy is introduced to fabricate highly efficient CsPbIBr2 PSCs by incorporating sulfamic acid sodium salt (SAS) into the perovskite layer. The additive can control the crystallization behaviors and optimize morphology, as well as effectively passivate defects in the bulk perovskite film, thereby resulting in a high‐quality perovskite. In addition, SAS in perovskite has possibly introduced an additional internal electric field effect that favors electron transport and injection due to inhomogeneous ion distribution. A champion PCE of 10.57% (steady‐output efficiency is 9.99%) is achieved under 1 Sun illumination, which surpasses that of the contrast sample by 16.84%. The modified perovskite film also exhibits improved moisture stability. The unencapsulated device maintains over 80% initial PCE after aging for 198 h in air. The results provide a suitable additive for inorganic perovskite and introduce a new conjecture to explain the function of additives in PSCs more rationally.
A Förster Resonance Energy Transfer‐Based Ratiometric Sensor with the Allosteric Transcription Factor TetR
Authors: Nguyen Thuy T. , Chern Margaret , Baer R C. , Galagan James , Dennis Allison M.
Published: April 2020

A recent description of an antibody‐free assay is significantly extended for small molecule analytes using allosteric transcription factors (aTFs) and Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET). The FRET signal indicates the differential binding of an aTF–DNA pair with a dose‐dependent response to its effector molecule, i.e., the analyte. The new sensors described here, based on the well‐characterized aTF TetR, demonstrate several new features of the assay approach: 1) the generalizability of the sensors to additional aTF–DNA–analyte systems, 2) sensitivity modulation through the choice of donor fluorophore (quantum dots or fluorescent proteins, FPs), and 3) sensor tuning using aTF variants with differing aTF–DNA binding affinities. While all of these modular sensors self‐assemble, the design reported here based on a recombinant aTF–FP chimera with commercially available dye‐labeled DNA uses readily accessible sensor components to facilitate easy adoption of the sensing approach by the broader community.
Polymeric Nanoparticles with Neglectable Protein Corona
Authors: Alberg Irina , Kramer Stefan , Schinnerer Meike , Hu Qizhi , Seidl Christine , Leps Christian , Drude Natascha , Möckel Diana , Rijcken Cristianne , Lammers Twan , Diken Mustafa , Maskos Michael , Morsbach Svenja , Landfester Katharina , Tenzer Stefan , Barz Matthias , Zentel Rudolf
Published: April 2020

The current understanding of nanoparticle–protein interactions indicates that they rapidly adsorb proteins upon introduction into a living organism. The formed protein corona determines thereafter identity and fate of nanoparticles in the body. The present study evaluates the protein affinity of three core‐crosslinked polymeric nanoparticles with long circulation times, differing in the hydrophilic polymer material forming the particle surface, namely poly(N‐2‐hydroxypropylmethacrylamide) (pHPMA), polysarcosine (pSar), and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG). This includes the nanotherapeutic CPC634, which is currently in clinical phase II evaluation. To investigate possible protein corona formation, the nanoparticles are incubated in human blood plasma and separated by asymmetrical flow field‐flow fractionation (AF4). Notably, light scattering shows no detectable differences in particle size or polydispersity upon incubation with plasma for all nanoparticles, while in gel electrophoresis, minor amounts of proteins can be detected in the particle fraction. Label‐free quantitative proteomics is additionally applied to analyze and quantify the composition of the proteins. It proves that some proteins are enriched, but their concentration is significantly less than one protein per particle. Thus, most of the nanoparticles are not associated with any proteins. Therefore, this work underlines that polymeric nanoparticles can be synthesized, for which a protein corona formation does not take place.
Application of ultrasound‐based radiomics technology in fetal‐lung‐texture analysis in pregnancies complicated by gestational diabetes and/or pre‐eclampsia
Authors: Du Y. , Fang Z. , Jiao J. , Xi G. , Zhu C. , Ren Y. , Guo Y. , Wang Y.
Published: April 2020

Objectives

To analyze and compare, using ultrasound‐based radiomics technology, fetal‐lung texture in pregnancies affected by gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and/or pre‐eclampsia (PE) and in normal pregnancies, overall and at different gestational ages.

Methods

In this retrospective study, 430 high‐throughput features per fetal‐lung image were extracted from 548 fetal‐lung ultrasound images (obtained at the level of the four‐chamber view of the heart) in 548 pregnant women who delivered between July 2018 and August 2019 at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University. Images had been obtained during ultrasound examinations between 28 and 41 weeks of gestation. The data were divided randomly into training set (80% of fetal‐lung images) and independent test set (20% of images), and 20% of the images in the training set were then selected as the validation set. A standard machine‐learning model based on ultrasound‐based radiomics technology was created using features of fetal‐lung texture extracted from the images, and a regression model was used to evaluate the relationship between lung‐texture features, GDM and/or PE and gestational age.

Results

Of the 548 pregnancies included, 108 were affected by GDM alone, 71 by PE alone and 25 by both GDM and PE, and 344 were normal. The overall performance of the GDM and PE prediction model was superior to that of the gestational‐age prediction model, with an area under the receiver‐operating‐characteristics curve of 0.95–0.99, sensitivity of 78.8–97.1% in the validation set and 74.5–91.3% in the independent test set, specificity of 79.8–94.3% in the validation set and 75.7–88.4% in the independent test set and accuracy of 81.0–95.3% in the validation set and 80.6–86.4% in the independent test set.

Conclusions

Using ultrasound‐based radiomics technology, fetal lungs from pregnancies grouped according to whether they were affected by GDM and/or PE could be distinguished from each other and from fetal lungs of normal pregnancies, and lungs from pregnancies at different gestational ages could be distinguished. These findings support further research to explore the use of this non‐invasive technology to predict neonatal respiratory complications in women with PE, GDM or their combination. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Hidden symmetry and (super)conformal mechanics in a monopole background
Authors: Inzunza Luis , Plyushchay Mikhail S. , Wipf Andreas
Published: April 2020

Abstract

We study classical and quantum hidden symmetries of a particle with electric charge e in the background of a Dirac monopole of magnetic charge g subjected to an additional central potential V (r) = U (r) + (eg)2
/2mr
2 with U (r) =

$$ \frac{1}{2} $$

1
2

mω
2
r
2, similar to that in the one-dimensional conformal mechanics model of de Alfaro, Fubini and Furlan (AFF). By means of a non-unitary conformal bridge transformation, we establish a relation of the quantum states and of all symmetries of the system with those of the system without harmonic trap, U (r) = 0. Introducing spin degrees of freedom via a very special spin-orbit coupling, we construct the

$$ \mathfrak{sop} $$

sop

(2|2) superconformal extension of the system with unbroken

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 2 Poincaré supersymmetry and show that two different superconformal extensions of the one-dimensional AFF model with unbroken and spontaneously broken supersymmetry have a common origin. We also show a universal relationship between the dynamics of a Euclidean particle in an arbitrary central potential U (r) and the dynamics of a charged particle in a monopole background subjected to the potential V (r).
F-theory vacua and α′-corrections
Authors: Weissenbacher Matthias
Published: April 2020

Abstract

In this work we analyze F-theory and Type IIB orientifold compactifications to study α′-corrections to the four-dimensional,

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 1 effective actions. In particular, we obtain corrections to the Kählermoduli space metric and its complex structure for generic dimension originating from eight-derivative corrections to eleven-dimensional supergravity. We propose a completion of the G
2
R
3 and (∇G)2
R
2-sector in eleven-dimensions relevant in Calabi-Yau fourfold reductions. We suggest that the three-dimensional,

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 2 Kähler coordinates may be expressed as topological integrals depending on the first, second, and third Chern-forms of the divisors of the internal Calabi-Yau fourfold. The divisor integral Ansatz for the Kähler potential and Kähler coordinates may be lifted to four-dimensional,

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 1 F-theory vacua. We identify a novel correction to the Kähler potential and coordinates at order α′
2, which is leading compared to other known corrections in the literature. At weak string coupling the correction arises from the intersection of D7-branes and O7-planes with base divisors and the volume of self-intersection curves of divisors in the base. In the presence of the conjectured novel α′-correction resulting from the divisor interpretation the no-scale structure may be broken. Furthermore, we propose a model independent scenario to achieve non-supersymmetric AdS vacua for Calabi-Yau orientifold backgrounds with negative Euler-characteristic.
On the Representation of Fields as Finite Sums of Proper Subfields
Authors: Kȩpczyk Marek , Mazurek Ryszard
Published: April 2020

We study which fieldsFcan be represented as finite sums of proper subfields. We prove that for any$$n \ge 2$$n≥2every fieldFof infinite transcendence degree over its prime subfield can be represented as an unshortenable sum ofnsubfields, and every rational function field$$F = K(x_1, \ldots , x_n)$$F=K(x1,…,xn)can be represented as an unshortenable sum of$$n + 1$$n+1subfields. We also show that no subfield of the algebraic closure of a finite field is a finite sum of proper subfields, and no finite extension of the field$${\mathbb {Q}}$$Qof rationals can be decomposed into a sum of two proper subfields.
Cortical presentation of language functions in patients after total laryngectomy: a fMRI study
Authors: Wypych Aleksandra , Wierzchowska Małgorzata , Burduk Paweł , Zawada Elżbieta , Nadolska Katarzyna , Serafin Zbigniew
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The aim of this study is to use functional magnetic resonance (fMRI) to analyse the cortical presentation of selected language functions in patients after a total laryngectomy.

Methods

Eighteen patients after total laryngectomy treated with electrolarynx speech and 18 volunteers were included. The mean number of patients’ post-operative speech rehabilitation sessions was five (range of 3–8 sessions). Four paradigms were used, including noun generation, pseudoword reading, reading phrases with pseudowords, and nonliteral sign reproduction.

Results

In noun, the most significant difference between the groups was the stronger activation of both lingual gyri in the volunteers. Pseudoword reading resulted in stronger activations in patients than in volunteers in the lingual gyri, the right cerebellum, the right Broca’s area, and the right parietal operculum. Reading phrases with pseudowords involved different parts of the Brodmann area 40. During nonliteral sign reproduction, there was a stronger activation of the left Broca’s area in volunteers and a stronger activation of the left premotor cortex in patients.

Conclusion

This study provides evidence of altered cortical activation in response to language tasks in patients after a laryngectomy compared with healthy volunteers, which may be considered brain plasticity in response to a laryngectomy.
Recent Near-surface Temperature Trends in the Antarctic Peninsula from Observed, Reanalysis and Regional Climate Model Data
Authors: Bozkurt Deniz , Bromwich David H. , Carrasco Jorge , Hines Keith M. , Maureira Juan Carlos , Rondanelli Roberto
Published: April 2020

This study investigates the recent near-surface temperature trends over the Antarctic Peninsula. We make use of available surface observations, ECMWF’s ERA5 and its predecessor ERA-Interim, as well as numerical simulations, allowing us to contrast different data sources. We use hindcast simulations performed with Polar-WRF over the Antarctic Peninsula on a nested domain configuration at 45 km (PWRF-45) and 15 km (PWRF-15) spatial resolutions for the period 1991-2015. In addition, we include hindcast simulations of KNMI-RACMO21P obtained from the CORDEX-Antarctica domain (~50 km) for further comparisons. Results show that there is a marked windward warming trend except during summer. This windward warming trend is particularly notable in the autumn season and likely to be associated with the recent deepening of the Amundsen/Bellingshausen Sea low and warm advection towards the Antarctic Peninsula. On the other hand, an overall summer cooling is characterized by the strengthening of the Weddell Sea low as well as an anticyclonic trend over the Amundsen Sea accompanied by northward winds. The persistent cooling trend observed at the Larsen Ice Shelf station is not captured by ERA-Interim, whereas hindcast simulations indicate that there is a clear pattern of windward warming and leeward cooling. Furthermore, larger temporal correlations and lower differences exhibited by PWRF-15 illustrate the existence of the added value in the higher spatial resolution simulation.
Implementing structured team debriefing using a Black Box in the operating room: surveying team satisfaction
Authors: van Dalen A. S. H. M. , Jansen M. , van Haperen M. , van Dieren S. , Buskens C. J. , Nieveen van Dijkum E. J. M. , Bemelman W. A. , Grantcharov T. P. , Schijven M. P.
Published: April 2020

Background

Surgical safety may be improved using a medical data recorder (MDR) for the purpose of postoperative team debriefing. It provides the team in the operating room (OR) with the opportunity to look back upon their joint performance objectively to discuss and learn from suboptimal situations or possible adverse events. The aim of this study was to investigate the satisfaction of the OR team using an MDR, the OR Black Box®, in the OR as a tool providing output for structured team debriefing.

Methods

In this longitudinal survey study, 35 gastro-intestinal laparoscopic operations were recorded using the OR Black Box® and the output was subsequently debriefed with the operating team. Prior to study, a privacy impact assessment was conducted to ensure alignment with applicable legal and regulatory requirements. A structured debrief model and an OR Back Box® performance report was developed. A standardized survey was used to measure participant’s satisfaction with the team debriefing, the debrief model used and the performance report. Factor analysis was performed to assess the questionnaire’s quality and identified contributing satisfaction factors. Multivariable analysis was performed to identify variables associated with participants’ opinions.

Results

In total, 81 team members of various disciplines in the OR participated, comprising 35 laparoscopic procedures. Mean satisfaction with the OR Black Box® performance report and team debriefing was high for all 3 identified independent satisfaction factors. Of all participants, 98% recommend using the OR Black Box® and the outcome report in team debriefing.

Conclusion

The use of an MDR in the OR for the purpose of team debriefing is considered to be both beneficial and important. Team debriefing using the OR Black Box® outcome report is highly recommended by 98% of team members participating.
The impact of intra-abdominal pressure on perioperative outcomes in laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Raval Amit D. , Deshpande Sohan , Koufopoulou Maria , Rabar Silvia , Neupane Binod , Iheanacho Ike , Bash Lori D. , Horrow Jay , Fuchs-Buder Thomas
Published: April 2020

Background

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy involves using intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) to facilitate adequate surgical conditions. However, there is no consensus on optimal IAP levels to improve surgical outcomes. Therefore, we conducted a systematic literature review (SLR) to examine outcomes of low, standard, and high IAP among adults undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Methods

An electronic database search was performed to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared outcomes of low, standard, and high IAP among adults undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. A Bayesian network meta-analysis (NMA) was used to conduct pairwise meta-analyses and indirect treatment comparisons of the levels of IAP assessed across trials.

Results

The SLR and NMA included 22 studies. Compared with standard IAP, on a scale of 0 (no pain at all) to 10 (worst imaginable pain), low IAP was associated with significantly lower overall pain scores at 24 h (mean difference [MD]: − 0.70; 95% credible interval [CrI]: − 1.26, − 0.13) and reduced risk of shoulder pain 24 h (odds ratio [OR] 0.24; 95% CrI 0.12, 0.48) and 72 h post-surgery (OR 0.22; 95% CrI 0.07, 0.65). Hospital stay was shorter with low IAP (MD: − 0.14 days; 95% CrI − 0.30, − 0.01). High IAP was not associated with a significant difference for these outcomes when compared with standard or low IAP. No significant differences were found between the IAP levels regarding need for conversion to open surgery; post-operative acute bleeding, pain at 72 h, nausea, and vomiting; and duration of surgery.

Conclusions

Our study of published trials indicates that using low, as opposed to standard, IAP during laparoscopic cholecystectomy may reduce patients’ post-operative pain, including shoulder pain, and length of hospital stay. Heterogeneity in the pooled estimates and high risk of bias of the included trials suggest the need for high-quality, adequately powered RCTs to confirm these findings.
Correction to: Knock-on effect of periodontitis to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease?
Authors: Leblhuber Friedrich , Huemer Julia , Steiner Kostja , Gostner Johanna M. , Fuchs Dietmar
Published: April 2020

The original version of this article unfortunately contained a mistake. There was an error in Fig. 2. The original article has been corrected. We apologize for the mistake.

The correct Fig. 2 is given …
Why do anti-inflammatory signals of bone marrow-derived stromal cells improve neurodegenerative conditions where anti-inflammatory drugs fail?
Authors: de Munter J. P. J. M. , Mey J. , Strekalova T. , Kramer B. W. , Wolters E. Ch.
Published: April 2020

Neurodegenerative disorders share the final degenerative pathway, the inflammation-induced apoptosis and/or necrosis, irrespective of their etiology, be it of acute and chronic traumatic, vascular and idiopathic origin. Although disease-modifying strategies are an unmet need in these disorders, lately, (pre)clinical studies suggested favorable effects after an intervention with bone marrow-derived stromal cells (bm-SC). Recent interventions with intrathecal transplantation of these cells in preclinical rodent models improved the functional outcome and reduced the inflammation, but not anti-inflammatory drugs. The benefit of bm-SCs was demonstrated in rats with an acute (traumatic spinal cord injury, tSCI) and in mice with a chronic [amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)-like FUS 1-358 or SOD1-G93-A mutation] neurodegenerative process. Bm-SCs, were found to modify underlying disease processes, to reduce final clinical SCI-related outcome, and to slow down ALS-like clinical progression. After double-blind interventions with bm-SC transplantations, Vehicle (placebo), and (non)steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Methylprednisolone, Riluzole, Celecoxib), clinical, histological and histochemical findings, serum/spinal cytokines, markers for spinal microglial activation inclusive, evidenced the cell-to-cell action of bm-SCs in both otherwise healthy and immune-deficient tSCI-rats, as well as wild-type and FUS/SOD1-transgenic ALS-like mice. The multi-pathway hypothesis of the cell-to-cell action of bmSCs, presumably using extracellular vesicles (EVs) as carriers of messages in the form of RNAs, DNA, proteins, and lipids rather than influencing a single inflammatory pathway, could be justified by the reported differences of cytokines and other chemokines in the serum and spinal tissue. The mode of action of bm-SCs is hypothesized to be associated with its dedicated adjustment of the pro-apoptotic glycogen synthase kinase-3β level towards an anti-apoptotic level whereas their multi-pathway hypothesis seems to be confirmed by the decreased levels of the pro-inflammatory interleukin (IL)-1β and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) as well as the level of the marker of activated microglia, ionized calcium binding adapter (Iba)-1 level.
The Role of Institutional Uncertainty for Social Sustainability of Companies and Supply Chains
Authors: Kelling Nikolas K. , Sauer Philipp C. , Gold Stefan , Seuring Stefan
Published: April 2020

Global sourcing largely occurs from so-called emerging markets and developing economies (EMDEs). In these contexts, substantial leverage effects for sustainability in supply chains (SCs) can be expected by reducing adverse impacts on society and minimising related risks. For this ethical end, an adequate understanding of the respective sourcing contexts is fundamental. This case study of South Africa’s (SA) mining sector uses institutional theory and the notion of institutional uncertainty to empirically analyse the challenges associated with establishing social sustainability. The case study research is informed by 39 semi-structured interviews with top management representatives and various state and non-state decision makers in SA. Our findings suggest that (social) sustainability in the institutional field is mainly shaped by the Social and Labour Plan institution, induced by state actors and mining companies’ practices. However, four weakening factors were identified that adversely affect this regulative institution, drive institutional uncertainty and allow for mining companies’ gradual decoupling. Contrastingly, complementing pressures of non-state actors limit institutional uncertainty and push toward mainstreaming the stipulations of the institution. This study contributes to the business ethics literature by providing an in-depth exploration of institutional uncertainty’s drivers and barriers within an upstream SC setting and shedding light on multiple actors’ interplay and relevance in sector-wide sustainability. The findings are condensed into three main propositions as well as an analytical framework as a basis for follow-up research. This case study helps practitioners understand and manage complexity that results from actor plurality and institutional uncertainty in EMDEs.
Impact Ionization Induced by Terahertz Radiation in HgTe Quantum Wells of Critical Thickness
Authors: Hubmann S. , Budkin G.V. , Urban M. , Bel’kov V.V. , Dmitriev A.P. , Ziegler J. , Kozlov D.A. , Mikhailov N.N. , Dvoretsky S.A. , Kvon Z.D. , Weiss D. , Ganichev S.D.
Published: April 2020

We report on the observation of terahertz (THz) radiation induced band-to-band impact ionization in HgTe quantum well (QW) structures of critical thickness, which are characterized by a nearly linear energy dispersion. The THz electric field drives the carriers initializing electron-hole pair generation. The carrier multiplication is observed for photon energies less than the energy gap under the condition that the product of the radiation angular frequency ω and momentum relaxation time τl larger than unity. In this case, the charge carriers acquire high energies solely because of collisions in the presence of a high-frequency electric field. The developed microscopic theory shows that the probability of the light-induced impact ionization is proportional to $\exp (-{E_{0}^{2}}/E^{2})$
exp
(
−

E

0

2

/

E

2

)
, with the radiation electric field amplitude E and the characteristic field parameter E0. As observed in experiment, it exhibits a strong frequency dependence for ωτ ≫ 1 characterized by the characteristic field E0 linearly increasing with the radiation frequency ω.
Ecology, growth and management of black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.), a non-native species integrated into European forests
Authors: Nicolescu Valeriu-Norocel , Rédei Károly , Mason William L. , Vor Torsten , Pöetzelsberger Elisabeth , Bastien Jean-Charles , Brus Robert , Benčať Tibor , Đodan Martina , Cvjetkovic Branislav , Andrašev Siniša , La Porta Nicola , Lavnyy Vasyl , Mandžukovski Dejan , Petkova Krasimira , Roženbergar Dušan , Wąsik Radosław , Mohren Godefridus M. J. , Monteverdi Maria Cristina , Musch Brigitte , Klisz Marcin , Perić Sanja , Keça Ljiljana , Bartlett Debbie , Hernea Cornelia , Pástor Michal
Published: April 2020

Black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.), a species native to the eastern North America, was introduced to Europe probably in 1601 and currently extends over 2.3 × 106 ha. It has become naturalized in all sub-Mediterranean and temperate regions rivaling Populus spp. as the second most planted broadleaved tree species worldwide after Eucalyptus spp. This wide-spreading planting is because black locust is an important multipurpose species, producing wood, fodder, and a source of honey as well as bio-oil and biomass. It is also important for carbon sequestration, soil stabilization and re-vegetation of landfills, mining areas and wastelands, in biotherapy and landscaping. In Europe, black locust is drought tolerant so grows in areas with annual precipitation as low as 500–550 mm. It tolerates dry, nutrient poor soils but grows best on deep, nutrient-rich, well-drained soils. It is a fast-growing tree and the height, diameter and volume growth peak before the age of 20. It mostly regenerates vegetatively by root suckers under a simple coppice system, which is considered the most cost-effective management system. It also regenerates, but less frequently, by stool sprouts. Its early silviculture in production forests includes release cutting to promote root suckers rather than stool shoots, and cleaning-respacing to remove low-quality stems, reduce the number of shoots per stool, and adjust spacing between root suckers. In addition, early, moderate and frequent thinning as well as limited pruning are carried out focusing on crop trees. The species is regarded as invasive in several European countries and its range here is expected to expand under predicted climate changes.
2D Layered Double Hydroxide Nanosheets and Their Derivatives Toward Efficient Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Lu Xueyi , Xue Hairong , Gong Hao , Bai Mingjun , Tang Daiming , Ma Renzhi , Sasaki Takayoshi
Published: April 2020

Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) have attracted tremendous research interest in widely spreading applications. Most notably, transition-metal-bearing LDHs are expected to serve as highly active electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) due to their layered structure combined with versatile compositions. Furthermore, reducing the thickness of platelet LDH crystals to nanometer or even molecular scale via cleavage or delamination provides an important clue to enhance the activity. In this review, recent progresses on rational design of LDH nanosheets are reviewed, including direct synthesis via traditional coprecipitation, homogeneous precipitation, and newly developed topochemical oxidation as well as chemical exfoliation of parent LDH crystals. In addition, diverse strategies are introduced to modulate their electrochemical activity by tuning the composition of host metal cations and intercalated counter-anions, and incorporating dopants, cavities, and single atoms. In particular, hybridizing LDHs with conductive components or in situ growing them on conductive substrates to produce freestanding electrodes can further enhance their intrinsic catalytic activity. A brief discussion on future research directions and prospects is also summarized.
Experimental study of radial lip seals with different sleeve coatings
Authors: Shabbir Sarah , Garvey Seamus D. , Dakka Sam M. , Rothwell Benjamin C.
Published: April 2020

Lip seals are vital components. Found on a range of machines, they are used to keep oil or grease within a system and help to prevent the ingress of contaminants. This article describes research that looks at the performance of various seal–shaft combinations by testing four different sleeve coatings – tungsten carbide, chrome oxide, hard chrome and stainless steel – in conjunction with radial lip seals pressured by preloaded garter springs. To find optimum sleeve coating and seal combinations, leakage and performance are investigated using an experimental test-bench.
Air Pollution Disasters: Liability Issues in Negligence Associated With the Provision of Personal Protective Interventions (Facemasks)
Authors: McDonald Fiona , Horwell Claire J
Published: April 2020

Disasters may impact air quality through the generation of high levels of potentially pathogenic particulate matter (PM), for example, in a volcanic eruption. Depending on the concentrations of particles in the air, their size and composition, and the duration of exposure, high levels of PM can create significant public health issues. It has been argued that air pollution, in and of itself, is a public health crisis. One possible intervention to reduce exposure to high levels of PM during an air pollution disaster (APD) is using facemasks. However, agencies may be reluctant to recommend or distribute facemasks for community use during APDs for a variety of reasons, including concerns about liability. There has been no analysis of these concerns. This paper analyzes whether agencies may have a legal duty of care in negligence to provide warnings about the health risks associated with APDs and/or to recommend facemasks as a protective mechanism for community use to reduce exposure to PM. It is also the first to examine the potential for liability in negligence, when a decision is made to distribute facemasks for community use during an APD and the receiver alleges that they sustained a personal injury and seeks compensation.
The Progressive Goal Attainment Program: A practitioner’s perspective of the implementation of the program in an Australian Workers’ Compensation setting
Authors: Alderson Kelly , Baranoff John
Published: April 2020

Recently, the Progressive Goal Attainment Program has grown in popularity as an intervention for injured workers experiencing psychosocial barriers when returning to work. This article provides an outline of the program and explores its implementation by a workplace rehabilitation provider. Data from 20 participants have been pooled to highlight typical presentations. Key features of the program and outcomes are discussed.
Wine Descriptions Provide Information: A Text Analysis
Authors: McCannon Bryan C.
Published: April 2020

I use a computational linguistic algorithm to measure the topics covered in textual descriptions of wine. I ask whether there is information in the text that consumers value. Wine is a prominent example of an experience good. There is substantial product differentiation in the market, and consumers only have limited information on the utility they will receive when consumed. Thus, information is expected to be valuable. Evaluating descriptions of wine produced across the United States, I use a hedonic price regression to explore whether the descriptions provide any new information not already available to the consumer. Initial results suggest that text descriptions are shown to lose their explanatory value when varietal and numerical ratings are included as controls. I then show that once the varietal, region, and numerical ratings are adequately controlled for, there is information in the descriptions that consumers value. (JEL Classifications: C81, D83, L15)
Paleopathological Research in Southern Patagonia: An Approach to Understanding Stress and Disease in Hunter-Gatherer Populations
Authors: Suby Jorge A.
Published: April 2020

This article reviews the most relevant data regarding evidence of stress and disease in native populations from Southern Patagonia and proposes future directions for paleopathological research. It focuses on the disease patterns in hunter-gatherer societies and the changes produced by contact and colonization. Studies of oral pathologies show a high frequency of dental attrition and low frequency of caries and antemortem tooth loss. Individuals with terrestrial dietary patterns show evidence of higher mechanical stress in the spine than those who participated in marine economies, based on the prevalence of Schmorl's nodes and vertebral osteophytosis. Porotic hyperostosis is more prevalent in individuals who had a marine diet and is probably related to nutritional impairment and parasitic infections. A higher frequency of metabolic stress was identified in individuals who lived in missions, perhaps because of declining quality in diet, hygiene, and living conditions. Paleoparasitological studies identified several species of parasites associated with human skeletons and terrestrial fauna. Moreover, recent studies suggested that treponematosis and tuberculosis were present in Patagonia since at least 1000 years BP. Future paleopathological research should increase the size and quality of studied samples and apply new methods and interpretive criteria. Detailed research into infections, degenerative joint diseases, and trauma (including violence episodes) has rarely been conducted.