bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The emerging role of cannabidiol (CBD) products; a survey exploring the public's use and perceptions of CBD
Authors: Bhamra Sukvinder Kaur , Desai Ankita , Imani‐Berendjestanki Parmis , Horgan Maeve
Published: August 2021

The market value of cannabidiol (CBD) is growing as people seek holistic ways of managing their health. The aim of this study was to explore the public's perceptions and use of CBD products, including where products were sourced, knowledge transfer and opinions on quality, safety and efficacy of CBD products. An online questionnaire was distributed via social and professional networks, in addition to face‐to‐face data collection days, which employed convenience and snowball sampling methods. A total of 597 participant responses were analysed, of which 10.9% (n = 65) claimed to use CBD products for a range of ailments, including anxiety and pain. CBD products were bought from healthcare stores, vape stores, pharmacies and online. Of those who did not personally use CBD (n = 532), 35% claimed they would like to try it. A positive attitude towards the safety and efficacy of CBD was attributed to CBD being a natural product. The study highlighted that the public continue to seek natural alternatives to supplement and maintain their health; hence, the popularity of CBD continues to rise. The lack of clinical evidence and regulation of CBD needs to be addressed to facilitate safe and effective use of CBD.
Compact representation of generalized molecular polarizabilities and efficient calculation of polarization energy in an arbitrary electric field
Authors: Wolinski Krzysztof , Pulay Peter
Published: August 2021

Generalized polarizabilities and the molecular charge distribution can describe the response of a molecule in an arbitrary static electric field up to second order. Depending on the expansion functions used to describe the perturbing potential, the generalized polarizability matrix can have rather large dimension (~1000). This matrix is the discretized version of the density response function or electronic susceptibility. Diagonalizing and truncating it can lead to significant (over an order of magnitude) speed‐up in simulations. We have analyzed the convergence behavior of the generalized polarizability using a plane wave basis for the potential. The eigenfunctions of the generalized polarizability matrix are the natural polarization potentials. They are potentially useful to construct efficient polarizability models for molecules.
Spigot in pneumothorax cavity: A rare complication of endobronchial Watanabe spigot
Authors: Miyoshi Shion , Kaburaki Kyohei , Otsuka Hajime , Kishi Kazuma
Published: August 2021

Key message

Spigot dropping is a rare but an intractable complication, because it is difficult to salvage a dropped spigot from the thoracic cavity. If the pneumothorax with a large fistula is recurrent, replacement with a larger size spigot may be recommended.
Waterproof spray‐induced lung injury while using a heater
Authors: Higashi Yasuyuki , Yamasaki Kei , Orihashi Takeshi , Yatera Kazuhiro
Published: August 2021

Key message

Fluororesin in waterproof spray becomes a pyrolysis product due to the heat of tobacco as well as a heater and can cause lung injury. People should be aware that waterproof spray must not be used under these circumstances.
Interface Recombination of Cu2ZnSnS4 Solar Cells Leveraged by High Carrier Density and Interface Defects
Authors: Li Jianjun , Huang Jialiang , Huang Yanchan , Tampo Hitoshi , Sakurai Takeaki , Chen Chao , Sun Kaiwen , Yan Chang , Cui Xin , Mai Yaohua , Hao Xiaojing
Published: August 2021

Kesterite Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) solar cell has emerged as one of the most promising thin‐film photovoltaic technologies that allows for cheap, clean, and efficient renewable power in the future. Nevertheless, limited by the large photovoltage deficit caused by severe interface recombination, the potential of CZTS solar cells is far from being fully tapped. Herein, it is demonstrated that the carrier density of the CZTS absorber and the acceptor‐like interface defects are two critical factors governing the interface recombination in addition to the unfavorable conduction band alignment. Results of device simulation suggest that passivating the acceptor‐like interface defects combined with appropriate absorber carrier density is the essential way to promote the photovoltage and efficiency of CZTS solar cells to a more competitive level. It is believed that these results could be generally applicable to the interface recombination of other heterojunction solar cells.
Modulating Chlorination Position on Polymer Donors for Highly Efficient Nonfullerene Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Huang Bin , Hu Lin , Chen Na , Cheng Yujun , Huang Xuexiang , Oh Jiyeon , Yang Changduk , Liu Shi-Yong , Chen Lie
Published: August 2021

Introducing substituent groups has been regarded as an effective method to construct highly efficient polymer donors. However, the correlation between the position of substituent groups and the device performance of polymer donors has rarely been carefully studied and compared. Herein, Cl atoms are introduced into the BDT‐based thienyl side chains and BDD‐based thienyl π‐bridges to obtain two chlorinated donor−acceptor (D−A) polymer donors H1 and H2, respectively. By systematically comparing the photovoltaic properties of H1 and H2, it is found that the device performance of polymer donors is sensitive to the position of chlorine atoms. The nonfullerene organic solar cells (OSCs) based on H1:IT‐4F and H1:Y6 display a superior power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 12.34 and 15.62%, whereas the PCE of H2:IT‐4F and H2:Y6 is 11.04 and 13.80%. As the H1‐based blend shows more desirable aggregation morphology, more preferential face‐on orientation, and more efficient extraction dissociation occurs. The current work demonstrates that the position of chlorine substitution can be reasonably optimized for state‐of‐the‐art polymer donors in the highly efficient nonfullerene OSCs.
A Winner‐Take‐All Autoencoder Based Pieceswise Linear Model for Nonlinear Regression with Missing Data
Authors: Zhu Huilin , Ren Yanni , Tian Yanling , Hu Jinglu
Published: August 2021

Missing data is a prevailing problem in predictive analytics. In this paper, a winner‐take‐all (WTA) autoencoder‐based piecewise linear model is developed to solve the nonlinear regression problem under the missing value scenario, which consists of two parts: an overcomplete WTA autoencoder and a gated linear network. The overcomplete WTA autoencoder is a stacked denoising autoencoder (SDAE) designed to play two roles: (1) to estimate the missing values; (2) to realize a sophisticated partitioning by generating a broad set of binary gate control sequences. Besides, an iterative algorithm with renewed teacher signals is developed to train the SDAE. On the other hand, the gated linear network with the generated binary gate control sequences implements a flexible piecewise linear model for nonlinear regression. By composing a quasi‐linear kernel based on the gate control sequences, the piecewise linear model is then identified in the same way as a support vector regression. Experimental results have shown that our proposed hybrid model has a better performance than traditional models. © 2021 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
PHLDA3 inhibition protects against myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury by alleviating oxidative stress and inflammatory response via the Akt/Nrf2 axis
Authors: Meng Xiaoxue , Zhang Lu , Han Bing , Zhang Zheng
Published: August 2021

Pleckstrin homology‐like domain family A, member 3 (PHLDA3) has a particularly critical role in regulating cell survival under stress conditions. However, whether PHLDA3 plays a role in myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury has not been studied. We aimed to assess the possible role of PHLDA3 in myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. PHLDA3 expression was increased in myocardial tissue from rats with myocardial I/R injury and rat cardiomyocytes with hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) injury. PHLDA3 knockdown protected against myocardial I/R injury in vivo and H/R injury in vitro. Inhibition of PHLDA3 increased the activation of nuclear factor erythroid‐derived 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) associated with regulation of the Akt/glycogen synthase kinase‐3β (GSK‐3β) axis. Repression of Nrf2 reversed PHLDA3‐inhibition‐mediated cardioprotective effects. Taken together, our work demonstrates that PHLDA3 inhibition exerts a protective role in myocardial I/R injury via regulation of the Akt/GSK‐3β/Nrf2 axis. We suggest PHLDA3 as an attractive target for developing treatments against myocardial I/R injury.
Collar pressure mapping: An evaluation of seven collar types used on working donkeys in Europe
Authors: Rodrigues João B. , Garrett Chris , Norris Stuart L. , Albuquerque Francisco , Queijo Luis , Cooke Fiona , Judge Andrew
Published: August 2021

Background: Working donkeys represent an important source of energy worldwide. Poor working conditions and equipment affect their ability to work. Poorly designed, ill‐fitted harness causes inefficient transfer of power and leads to health and welfare issues. Using technology to assess different types of collars provides a better understanding of those that are most efficient for working donkeys.

Materials and methods: Seven different collars were tested using pressure pads. Contact area, median, maximum and peak pressures were obtained for the whole collar and critical points. Eight donkeys pulled 20% and 40% of their body weight, using each collar, under controlled conditions.

Results: Contact area and pressures vary between collars and effort, with design and expansion capacity of the collars playing a major role. Simple collars designed specifically for donkeys performed well, with full collars designed for horses also having good results. Due to reduced expansion capacity and contact in the critical points, the breast collars were the least effective.

Conclusion: Design, appropriate padding and manufacturing materials and adjustment capacity are key features for good collars, and such parameters are of paramount importance in terms of health and welfare for working donkeys.
Identifying the capabilities most important for veterinary employability using a modified Delphi process
Authors: Bell Melinda A. , Cake Martin A. , King Laura T. , Mansfield Caroline F.
Published: August 2021

Background

In the veterinary profession, employability has been defined as ‘a set of personal and professional capabilities that enable a veterinarian to gain employment, contribute meaningfully to the profession, and develop a career pathway that achieves satisfaction and success’. This study was part of a multinational collaborative research project aiming to define the capabilities most important for employability in the veterinary context (www.VetSet2Go.edu.au).

Methods

The project gathered empirical evidence from multiple stakeholders including employees, employers, clients, team members, academics and professional bodies. These perspectives needed to be brought together as a cohesive body of evidence. We used a modified Delphi process, whereby a panel of experts were asked to reach consensus on the capabilities most important for veterinary employability, after considering the evidence from the sub‐projects.

Results

The Delphi panel reached rapid consensus upon 21 of an initial 47 capabilities, including effective communication with clients and colleagues, teamwork, technical knowledge and skills, resilience and well‐being, adaptability, emotional intelligence, workflow management and empathy and compassion.

Conclusion

Of note for veterinary educators are those attitudinal items identified by this Delphi process as important to employability but potentially underemphasised in existing competency frameworks, such as accepts responsibility, keen to learn, diligence (high standard of care) and self‐awareness.
A review on pesticide degradation from irrigation water and techno‐economic feasibility of treatment technologies
Authors: Mule Chirag Mandar , Doltade Sarjerao Bapu , Pandit Aniruddha Bhalchandra
Published: August 2021

The present study focuses and assures the need for pesticide degradation from various water bodies used for irrigation and the available technologies to treat them effectively. A thorough review of the literature is done on pesticide residues present in various irrigation water sources like rivers, groundwater, river sediments, and soil which signifies the existence of pesticides in the ecosystem. This indicates the severity of water pollution due to various sources around and their adverse effect on the ecosystem. However, several technologies are available to treat these pesticides based on the classification. A Cross comparison between the technologies is done to determine the efficient technology for the treatment of irrigation water.
Comparison of EBRT and I-125 seed brachytherapy concerning outcome in intermediate-risk prostate cancer
Authors: Moll Matthias , Renner Andreas , Kirisits Christian , Paschen Christopher , Zaharie Alexandru , Goldner Gregor
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This study’s objective was the comparison of external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) and I‑125 seed brachytherapy regarding clinical outcome and development of side effects.

Patients and methods

In all, 462 localized intermediate-risk prostate cancer patients treated between 2000 and 2019 at our department using either I‑125 seed brachytherapy or EBRT with a dose of 74 or 78 Gy were included: 297 patients were treated with EBRT and 165 with seeds. Biochemical no evidence of disease (bNED) rates according to Phoenix definition as well as late gastrointestinal and urogenital side effects (EORTC/RTOG) were assessed.

Results

Patients were followed up yearly with a median follow-up of 54 (3–192) months. Observed bNED rates for 74 Gy, 78 Gy and seeds were 87, 92, and 88% after 5 years and 71, 85, and 76% after 9 years, respectively. No significant differences were found comparing seeds with 74 Gy (p = 0.81) and 78 Gy (p = 0.19), as well as between 74 and 78 Gy (p = 0.32). Concerning gastrointestinal side effects, EBRT showed significantly higher rates of RTOG grade ≥ 2 toxicity compared to seeds, but at no point of the follow-up more than 10% of all patients. However, genitourinary side effects were significantly more prevalent in patients treated with seeds, with 33% RTOG grade ≥ 2 toxicity 12 months after treatment. Nevertheless, both types of side effects decreased over time.

Conclusion

Favorable intermediate-risk prostate cancer patients can be treated either by external beam radiotherapy (74/78 Gy) or permanent interstitial seed brachytherapy.
Impfverhalten psychologisch erklären und verändern am Beispiel der HPV-Impfung
Authors: Heinemeier Dorothee , Terhardt Martin , Betsch Cornelia
Published: August 2021

Impfmüdigkeit bezeichnet das Verzögern, Auslassen oder Ablehnen wichtiger Impfungen trotz ihrer Verfügbarkeit. Die Impfung gegen humane Papillomviren (HPV) schützt gegen verschiedene Varianten von Gebärmutterhalskrebs und wird für Mädchen und Jungen im Alter von 9–14 Jahren empfohlen. Allerdings sind die Impfquoten im Vergleich zu anderen Kinderimpfungen geringer, zudem zeigen sich deutliche Abbruchquoten zwischen Erst- und Zweitimpfung. Jährlich sterben rund 1500 Frauen in Deutschland und 311.000 Frauen weltweit an Gebärmutterhalskrebs. Eine Elimination des Gebärmutterhalskrebses bis zum Ende des Jahrhunderts wäre theoretisch möglich, und globale Strategien existieren, um dieses Ziel zu erreichen – dafür bräuchte es aber unter anderem deutlich höhere Impfquoten. Im Beitrag wird betrachtet, welche psychologischen Faktoren die HPV-Impfung begünstigen oder ihr im Weg stehen und was Ärztinnen und Ärzte tun können, um die Impfmotivation zu steigern.
λ stenting: a novel technique for posterior communicating artery aneurysms with fetal-type posterior communicating artery originating from the aneurysm dome
Authors: Tanabe Jun , Nakahara Ichiro , Matsumoto Shoji , Suyama Yoshio , Morioka Jun , Hasebe Akiko , Watanabe Sadayoshi , Suyama Kenichiro , Kuwahara Kiyonori , Irie Keiko
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Endovascular treatment of posterior communicating artery aneurysms with fetal-type posterior communicating artery originating from the aneurysm dome is often challenging because, with conventional techniques, dense packing of aneurysms for posterior communicating artery preservation is difficult; moreover, flow-diversion devices are reportedly less effective. Herein, we describe a novel method called the λ stenting technique that involves deploying stents into the internal carotid artery and posterior communicating artery.

Methods

Between January 2018 and September 2020, the λ stenting technique was performed to treat eight consecutive cases of aneurysms. All target aneurysms had a wide neck (dome/neck ratio < 2), a fetal-type posterior communicating artery with hypoplastic P1, and a posterior communicating artery originating from the aneurysm dome. The origin of the posterior communicating artery from the aneurysm, relative to the internal carotid artery, was steep (< 90°: V shape).

Results

The maximum aneurysm size was 8.0 ± 1.9 mm (6–12 mm). The average packing density (excluding one regrowth case) was 32.7 ± 4.2% (26.8–39.1%). Initial occlusion was complete occlusion in 6 (75.0%) patients and neck remnants in 2 (25.0%) patients. Follow-up angiography was performed at 18.4 ± 11.6 months (3–38 months). There were no perioperative complications or reinterventions required during the study period.

Conclusion

The λ stenting technique enabled dense coil packing and preservation of the posterior communicating artery. This technique enabled safe and stable coil embolization. Thus, it could become an alternative treatment option for this sub-type of intracranial aneurysms.
Novel oleate hydratases and potential biotechnological applications
Authors: Hagedoorn Peter Leon , Hollmann Frank , Hanefeld Ulf
Published: August 2021

Oleate hydratase catalyses the addition of water to the CC double bond of oleic acid to produce (R)-10-hydroxystearic acid. The enzyme requires an FAD cofactor that functions to optimise the active site structure. A wide range of unsaturated fatty acids can be hydrated at the C10 and in some cases the C13 position. The substrate scope can be expanded using ‘decoy’ small carboxylic acids to convert small chain alkenes to secondary alcohols, albeit at low conversion rates. Systematic protein engineering and directed evolution to widen the substrate scope and increase the conversion rate is possible, supported by new high throughput screening assays that have been developed. Multi-enzyme cascades allow the formation of a wide range of products including keto-fatty acids, secondary alcohols, secondary amines and α,ω-dicarboxylic acids.

Key points

• Phylogenetically distinct oleate hydratases may exhibit mechanistic differences.

• Protein engineering to improve productivity and substrate scope is possible.

• Multi-enzymatic cascades greatly widen the product portfolio.
Europäische Dateninfrastrukturen
Authors: Otto Boris , Burmann Anja
Published: August 2021

Daten stellen eine strategische Ressource für die Wettbewerbsfähigkeit von Unternehmen und die Prosperität der Gesellschaft dar. Von der Nutzung von Daten vieler einzelner Akteure profitieren die Gemeinschaft, aber auch das Individuum. Beispiele hierfür liefern das Gesundheitswesen oder die Mobilität. Dabei sind die Interessen der Individuen in Bezug auf Datenschutz und Datensouveränität über Nutzungsvereinbarungen hinaus zu wahren und bestenfalls technologisch sicherzustellen. Datenräume, basierend auf verteilten Dateninfrastrukturen, stellen Datendienste und Datennutzungsregeln für Individuen und Organisationen bereit. Beispiele hierfür liefern die International-Data-Spaces(IDS)-Initiative oder die Initiative Gaia‑X zur Schaffung einer verteilten Dateninfrastruktur in Europa. Instanziierungen in den Bereichen Mobilität oder Smarthome zeigen Vorteile von Datenökosystemen für Individuen, die Gemeinschaft und die Gesamtheit der Dienstanbieter. Gleichzeitig werden Risiken wie die geeignete Interessensvertretung einzelner Nutzender deutlich. Anhand zweier Fallstudien werden offene ethische, rechtliche, betriebswirtschaftliche und technische Fragen bei der verteilten Umsetzung von Datenräumen und Dateninfrastrukturen unter Sicherstellung europäischer Wertevereinbarungen aufgezeigt.
Children with congenital colorectal malformations during the UK Sars-CoV-2 pandemic lockdown: an assessment of telemedicine and impact on health
Authors: Stathopoulos E. , Skerritt C. , Fitzpatrick G. , Hooker E. , Lander A. , Gee O. , Jester I.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This pilot study was designed to assess bowel function and quality of life (QoL) in children and adolescents with congenital colorectal malformations (CCM) during the first UK COVID lockdown period.

Methods

Changes in health were assessed through semi-structured interviews, gastrointestinal functional outcomes using Krickenbeck scoring and QoL by the modified disease-specific HAQL (Hirschsprung’s disease anorectal malformation quality of life questionnaire). The State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI)™ for adults was used to assess parental anxiety.

Results

Thirty-two families were interviewed; 19 (59%) reported no change in their child’s health during the lockdown, 5 (16%) a deterioration and 8 (25%) an improvement. Neither the severity of the CCM, nor the degree of bowel dysfunction, correlated with any deterioration. The HAQL score was not correlated to a change in health. Anxiety scores ranged from no anxiety to clinical concerns. Telemedicine was well accepted by 28/32 parents (88%); however, in-person appointments were preferred if there were clinical concerns.

Conclusion

In the follow-up of children and adolescents with CCM during the first UK lockdown using telemedicine we found that over half had stable health conditions. Patients needing additional care could not be predicted by the severity of their disease or their bowel function alone.
Steady-state $$\dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2}$$ above MLSS: evidence that critical speed better represents maximal metabolic steady state in well-trained runners
Authors: Nixon Rebekah J. , Kranen Sascha H. , Vanhatalo Anni , Jones Andrew M.
Published: August 2021

The metabolic boundary separating the heavy-intensity and severe-intensity exercise domains is of scientific and practical interest but there is controversy concerning whether the maximal lactate steady state (MLSS) or critical power (synonymous with critical speed, CS) better represents this boundary. We measured the running speeds at MLSS and CS and investigated their ability to discriminate speeds at which $$\dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2}$$

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was stable over time from speeds at which a steady-state $$\dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2}$$

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could not be established. Ten well-trained male distance runners completed 9–12 constant-speed treadmill tests, including 3–5 runs of up to 30-min duration for the assessment of MLSS and at least 4 runs performed to the limit of tolerance for assessment of CS. The running speeds at CS and MLSS were significantly different (16.4 ± 1.3 vs. 15.2 ± 0.9 km/h, respectively; P < 0.001). Blood lactate concentration was higher and increased with time at a speed 0.5 km/h higher than MLSS compared to MLSS (P < 0.01); however, pulmonary $$\dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2}$$

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did not change significantly between 10 and 30 min at either MLSS or MLSS + 0.5 km/h. In contrast, $$\dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2}$$

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increased significantly over time and reached $$\dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2\,\,\max }$$

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2

max

at end-exercise at a speed ~ 0.4 km/h above CS (P < 0.05) but remained stable at a speed ~ 0.5 km/h below CS. The stability of $$\dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2}$$

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at a speed exceeding MLSS suggests that MLSS underestimates the maximal metabolic steady state. These results indicate that CS more closely represents the maximal metabolic steady state when the latter is appropriately defined according to the ability to stabilise pulmonary $$\dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2}$$

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.
Mesenchymal/non-epithelial mimickers of neuroendocrine neoplasms with a focus on fusion gene-associated and SWI/SNF-deficient tumors
Authors: Kasajima Atsuko , Konukiewitz Björn , Schlitter Anna Melissa , Weichert Wilko , Bräsen Jan Hinrich , Agaimy Abbas , Klöppel Günter
Published: August 2021

Mimickers of neuroendocrine neoplasms (NEN) include a number of important pitfall tumors. Here, we describe our experience with mesenchymal mimics of NENs to illustrate their spectrum and draw the attention particularly to a group of mesenchymal/non-epithelial neoplasms (MN) that combine epithelioid histology with neuroendocrine (NE-) features and peculiar genetic abnormalities. In a consultation series of 4498 cases collected between 2009 and 2021, 2099 neoplasms expressing synaptophysin and/or chromograninA were reviewed and analyzed. A total of 364 (18%) were diagnosed as non-NENs, while the remaining tumors were NEN. The group of mesenchymal/non-epithelial neoplasms with NE-features (MN-NE) included 31/364 (8%) cases. These mostly malignant neoplasms showed an epithelioid morphology. While all but one tumor expressed synaptophysin, mostly patchy, only 10/29 (34%) co-expressed chromograninA. A total of 13/31 (42%) of the MN-NE showed EWSR1-related gene fusions (6 Ewing sarcomas, 5 clear cell sarcomas, and 1 desmoplastic small round cell tumor, 1 neoplasm with FUS-CREM gene fusion) and 7 (23%) were SWI/SNF (SMARCB1 or SMARCA4)-deficient neoplasms. The remaining MN-NE included synovial sarcoma, sclerosing epithelioid mesenchymal neoplasm, melanoma, alveolar soft part sarcoma, solitary fibrous tumor, and chordoma. A total of 27/31 MN-NE were from the last 8 years, and 6 of them were located in the pancreas. Eleven MN-NE were initially diagnosed as neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs). MN-NE with epithelioid features play an increasing role as mimickers of NECs. They mostly belong to tumors with gene fusions involving the EWSR1 gene, or with SWI/SNF complex deficiency. Synaptophysin expression is mostly patchy and chromograninA expression is infrequent in MN-NE of this series and data extracted from literature.
Prediction of walking ability following posterior decompression for lumbar spinal stenosis
Authors: McIlroy Suzanne , Jadhakhan Feroz , Bell David , Rushton Alison
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Following surgery for lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) up to 40% of people report persistent walking disability. This study aimed to identify pre-operative factors that are predictive of walking ability post-surgery for LSS.

Methods

An observational cohort study was conducted using data from the British Spine Registry (2017–2018) of adults (≥ 50 years) with LSS, who underwent ≤ 2 level posterior lumbar decompression. Patients receiving fixation or who had previous lumbar surgery were excluded. Walking ability was assessed by a single item on the Oswestry Disability Index and dichotomised into poor/good outcome. Multivariable regression models were performed.

Results

14,485 patients were identified. Pre-operatively 30% patients reported poor walking ability, this decreased to 8% at 12 months follow-up. Predictors associated with poor walking ability at 12 months were: increasing age (≥ 75 years OR 1.54, 95% CI 1.07, 2.18), BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2 (OR 1.52, 95% CI 1.00, 2.30), severity of leg pain (OR 1.10, CI 95% 1.01, 1.21), disability (OR 1.01, 95% CI 1.01, 1.02) and quality of life (OR 0.72, 95% CI 0.56, 0.89). Pre-operative maximum walking distance (OR 1.10, 95% CI 1.05, 1.25) and higher education (OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.80, 0.96) were associated with reduced risk of poor walking ability at 12 months; p < 0.05. Depression, fear of movement and symptom duration were not associated with risk of poor outcome.

Conclusion

Older age, obesity, greater pre-operative pain and disability and lower quality of life are associated with risk of poor walking ability post-operatively. Greater pre-operative walking and higher education are associated with reduced risk of poor walking ability post-operatively. Patients should be counselled on their risk of poor outcome and considered for rehabilitation so that walking and surgical outcomes may be optimised.
Accuracy assessment of pedicle screw insertion with patient specific 3D‑printed guides through superimpose CT-analysis in thoracolumbar spinal deformity surgery
Authors: Cool J. , van Schuppen J. , de Boer M. A. , van Royen B. J.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

In order to avoid pedicle screw misplacement in posterior spinal deformity surgery, patient specific 3D‑printed guides can be used. An accuracy assessment of pedicle screw insertion can be obtained by superimposing CT-scan images from a preoperative plan over those of the postoperative result. The aim of this study is to report on the accuracy of drill guide assisted pedicle screw placement in thoracolumbar spinal deformity surgery by means of a superimpose CT-analysis.

Methods

Concomitant with the clinical introduction of a new technique for drill guide assisted pedicle screw placement, the accuracy of pedicle screw insertion was analyzed in the first patients treated with this technique by using superimpose CT-analysis. Deviation from the planned ideal intrapedicular screw trajectory was classified according to the Gertzbein scale.

Results

Superimpose CT-analysis of 99 pedicle screws in 5 patients was performed. The mean linear deviation was 0.92 mm, the mean angular deviation was 2.92° with respect to the preoperatively planned pedicle screw trajectories. According to the Gertzbein scale, 100% of screws were found to be positioned within the “safe zone”.

Conclusion

The evaluated patient specific 3D-printed guide technology was demonstrated to constitute a safe and accurate tool for precise pedicle screw insertion in spinal deformity surgeries. Superimpose CT-analysis showed a 100% accuracy of pedicle screw placement without any violation of the pedicle wall or other relevant structures. We recommend a superimpose CT-analysis for the first consecutive patients when introducing new technologies into daily clinical practice, such as intraoperative imaging, navigation or robotics.
Base sizes of primitive permutation groups
Authors: Moscatiello Mariapia , Roney-Dougal Colva M.
Published: August 2021

LetGbe a permutation group, acting on a set$$\varOmega $$Ωof sizen. A subset$${\mathcal {B}}$$Bof$$\varOmega $$Ωis abaseforGif the pointwise stabilizer$$G_{({\mathcal {B}})}$$G(B)is trivial. Letb(G) be the minimal size of a base forG. A subgroupGof$$\mathrm {Sym}(n)$$Sym(n)islarge baseif there exist integersmand$$r \ge 1$$r≥1such that$${{\,\mathrm{Alt}\,}}(m)^r \unlhd G \le {{\,\mathrm{Sym}\,}}(m)\wr {{\,\mathrm{Sym}\,}}(r)$$Alt(m)r⊴G≤Sym(m)≀Sym(r), where the action of$${{\,\mathrm{Sym}\,}}(m)$$Sym(m)is onk-element subsets of$$\{1,\dots ,m\}$${1,⋯,m}and the wreath product acts with product action. In this paper we prove that ifGis primitive and not large base, then eitherGis the Mathieu group$$\mathrm {M}_{24}$$M24in its natural action on 24 points, or$$b(G)\le \lceil \log n\rceil +1$$b(G)≤⌈logn⌉+1. Furthermore, we show that there are infinitely many primitive groupsGthat are not large base for which$$b(G) > \log n + 1$$b(G)>logn+1, so our bound is optimal.
Heterogeneous self-tracked health and fitness data integration and sharing according to a linked open data approach
Authors: Reda Roberto , Piccinini Filippo , Martinelli Giovanni , Carbonaro Antonella
Published: August 2021

The huge volume of data gathered from wearable fitness devices and wellness appliances, if effectively analysed and integrated, can be exploited to improve clinical decision making and to stimulate promising applications, as they can provide good measures of everyday patient behaviour and lifestyle. However, several obstacles currently limit the true exploitation of these opportunities. In particular, the healthcare landscape is characterised by a pervasive presence of data silos which prevent users and healthcare professionals from obtaining an overall view of the knowledge, mainly due to the lack of device interoperability and data representation format heterogeneity. This work focuses on current, important needs in self-tracked health data modelling, and summarises challenges and opportunities that will characterise the community in the upcoming years. The paper describes a virtually integrated approach using standard Web Semantic technologies and Linked Open Data to cope with heterogeneous health data integration. The proposed approach is verified using data collected from several IoT fitness vendors to form a standard context-aware resource graph, and linking other health ontologies and open projects. We developed a web portal for integrating, sharing and analysing through a customisable dashboard heterogeneous IoT health and fitness data. In this way, we are able to map information onto an integrated domain model by providing support for logical reasoning.
Using linear algebra in decomposition of Farkas interpolants
Authors: Blicha Martin , Hyvärinen Antti E. J. , Kofroň Jan , Sharygina Natasha
Published: August 2021

The use of propositional logic and systems of linear inequalities over reals is a common means to model software for formal verification. Craig interpolants constitute a central building block in this setting for over-approximating reachable states, e.g. as candidates for inductive loop invariants. Interpolants for a linear system can be efficiently computed from a Simplex refutation by applying the Farkas’ lemma. However, these interpolants do not always suit the verification task—in the worst case, they can even prevent the verification algorithm from converging. This work introduces the decomposed interpolants, a fundamental extension of the Farkas interpolants, obtained by identifying and separating independent components from the interpolant structure, using methods from linear algebra. We also present an efficient polynomial algorithm to compute decomposed interpolants and analyse its properties. We experimentally show that the use of decomposed interpolants in model checking results in immediate convergence on instances where state-of-the-art approaches diverge. Moreover, since being based on the efficient Simplex method, the approach is very competitive in general.
Rapid molecular detection of pathogenic microorganisms and antimicrobial resistance markers in blood cultures: evaluation and utility of the next-generation FilmArray Blood Culture Identification 2 panel
Authors: Holma Tanja , Torvikoski Jukka , Friberg Nathalie , Nevalainen Annika , Tarkka Eveliina , Antikainen Jenni , Martelin Jari J.
Published: August 2021

Rapid detection of pathogens causing bloodstream infections (BSI) directly from positive blood cultures is of highest importance in order to enable an adequate and timely antimicrobial therapy. In this study, the utility and performance of a recently launched next-generation fully automated test system, the Biofire FilmArray® Blood Culture Identification 2 (BCID2) panel, was evaluated using a set of 103 well-characterized microbial isolates including 29 antimicrobial resistance genes and 80 signal-positive and 23 signal-negative clinical blood culture samples. The results were compared to culture-based reference methods, MALDI-TOF, and/or 16S rDNA sequencing. Of the clinical blood culture samples, 68 were monomicrobial (85.0%) and 12 polymicrobial (15.0%). Six samples contained ESBL (blaCTX-M), two MRSA (mecA), and three MRSE (mecA) isolates. In overall, the FilmArray BCID2 panel detected well on-panel targets and resistance markers from mono- and polymicrobial samples. However, one Klebsiella aerogenes and one Bacteroides ovatus were undetected, and the assay falsely reported one Shigella flexneri as Escherichia coli. Hence, the sensitivity and specificity for detecting microbial species were 98.8% (95%CI, 95.8–99.9%) and 99.9% (95%CI, 99.8–99.9%), respectively. The sensitivity and specificity for detecting of resistance gene markers were 100%. The results were available within 70 min from signal-positive blood cultures with minimal hands-on time. In conclusion, the BCID2 test allows reliable and simplified detection of a vast variety of clinically relevant microbes causing BSI and the most common antimicrobial resistance markers present among these isolates.
COVID-19 Is Transforming Economic Policy in the United States
Authors: Sahm Claudia
Published: August 2021

Cutbacks in government spending slowed the recovery and led to lasting damage to workers and economic growth.
Europe’s COVID-19 Crisis Response: A Race Well Run, But Not Yet Won
Authors: Kammer Alfred , Arnold Nathaniel
Published: August 2021

While Europe’s response to the pandemic has been laudable, there remains more to be done in order to prevent economic scarring and ensure a robust recovery.
Missing the Popular Vote: Pitfalls in US Democracy and Reform Proposals
Authors: Sell Friedrich L. , Stiefl Jürgen
Published: August 2021

Only a few years ago, it was a widespread belief that globalisation would trigger processes of democratisation worldwide. However, even old and established democracies such as the United States have recently revealed serious weaknesses. This article shows that the US election system is heavily distorted and recommends profound and transparent Electoral College reforms in the election of US presidents. Furthermore, the article highlights the implications the challenges facing American democracy have for Europe.
Policy instruments and self-reported impacts of the adoption of energy saving technologies in the DACH region
Authors: Peneder Michael , Arvanitis Spyros , Rammer Christian , Stucki Tobias , Wörter Martin
Published: August 2021

Using a large sample of enterprises from a survey that was simultaneously conducted in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, we study the self-reported impacts of the adoption of “green” energy saving and related technologies (GETs). Our specific interest is in how different policy instruments associate with energy efficiency, the reduction of $$\hbox {CO}_{2}$$

CO
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emissions, and competitiveness at the firm level. A first set of equations tracks how policy relates to the adoption of green energy technologies in distinct areas such as production, transport, buildings, ICT or renewables. In a second set of equations, we test the perceived impacts of adoption by the managers of the firms. The results confirm a differentiated pattern of varied transmission mechanisms through which policy can affect energy efficiency and $$\hbox {CO}_{2}$$

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emissions, while on average having a neutral impact on the firms’ competitiveness. Further, discarding the conventional dichotomy between incentive-based versus command-and-control type instruments, the results suggest to pursue a comprehensive policy mix, where standards, taxes and subsidies each capitalize on different transmission mechanisms.
A qualitative and quantitative analysis of open citations to retracted articles: the Wakefield 1998 et al.'s case
Authors: Heibi Ivan , Peroni Silvio
Published: August 2021

In this article, we show the results of a quantitative and qualitative analysis of open citations on a popular and highly cited retracted paper: “Ileal-lymphoid-nodular hyperplasia, non-specific colitis and pervasive developmental disorder in children” by Wakefield et al., published in 1998. The main purpose of our study is to understand the behavior of the publications citing one retracted article and the characteristics of the citations the retracted article accumulated over time. Our analysis is based on a methodology which illustrates how we gathered the data, extracted the topics of the citing articles and visualized the results. The data and services used are all open and free to foster the reproducibility of the analysis. The outcomes concerned the analysis of the entities citing Wakefield et al.’s article and their related in-text citations. We observed a constant increasing number of citations in the last 20 years, accompanied with a constant increment in the percentage of those acknowledging its retraction. Citing articles have started either discussing or dealing with the retraction of Wakefield et al.’s article even before its full retraction happened in 2010. Articles in the social sciences domain citing the Wakefield et al.’s one were among those that have mostly discussed its retraction. In addition, when observing the in-text citations, we noticed that a large number of the citations received by Wakefield et al.’s article has focused on general discussions without recalling strictly medical details, especially after the full retraction. Medical studies did not hesitate in acknowledging the retraction of the Wakefield et al.’s article and often provided strong negative statements on it.
Defining “elite” status in sport: from chaos to clarity
Authors: McAuley Alexander B. T. , Baker Joseph , Kelly Adam L.
Published: August 2021

The past two decades have seen a rapid rise in attention towards talent identification, athlete development and skill acquisition. However, there are important limitations to the evidentiary foundations of this field of research. For instance, variability in describing the performance levels of individuals has made it challenging to draw inferences about inter- and intrapopulation differences. More specifically, recent reviews on high performers in sport have noted considerable variation in how terms such as “elite” are used. This may be particularly concerning for researchers in high-performance disciplines, since they regularly struggle with small sample sizes and rely on research synthesis approaches (i.e. meta-analyses and systematic reviews) to inform evidence-based decisions. In this discussion piece, we (a) highlight issues with the application of current terminology, (b) discuss challenges in conceptualizing an improved framework and (c) provide several recommendations for researchers and practitioners working in this area.
Trust and Trust-Engineering in Artificial Intelligence Research: Theory and Praxis
Authors: Chen Melvin
Published: August 2021

In this paper, I will identify two problems of trust in an AI-relevant context: a theoretical problem and a practical one. I will identify and address a number of skeptical challenges to an AI-relevant theory of trust. In addition, I will identify what I shall term the ‘scope challenge’, which I take to hold for any AI-relevant theory (or collection of theories) of trust that purports to be representationally adequate to the multifarious forms of trust and AI. Thereafter, I will suggest how trust-engineering, a position that is intermediate between the modified pure rational-choice account and an account that gives rise to trustworthy AI, might allow us to address the practical problem of trust, before identifying and critically evaluating two candidate trust-engineering approaches.
Paediatric dentistry undergraduate education across dental schools in the Arabian region: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Al-Jundi S. H. , EI Shahawy O. I. , Nazzal H.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

To assess and compare teaching of paediatric dentistry in the undergraduate curriculum among dental schools in the Arabian region.

Methods

A 28-item online cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted of undergraduate dental programme directors in the Arab region. The survey included questions related to the programme’s content, method of instruction on specific paediatric dentistry topics as well as the director’s opinion on the level of training obtained by the undergraduate students at the end of the programme.

Results

The final sample included 31 dental schools representing undergraduate programmes in ten Arabian countries (60.8% response rate). All programmes provided theoretical and practical education on communicative behaviour management techniques and caries prevention. Pulpectomy and formocresol pulpotomy were taught in the form of theoretical and practical education in 87.1% and 80.6% of the programmes, respectively. The method of education on common orthodontic topics was mainly theoretical with the exception of space maintainers. Instructions on managing trauma to permanent dentition was theoretical and practical in most programmes (61.3%).

Most respondents rated the level of training of students in behaviour management and caries prevention as good to reasonable, while only 22.6% thought that the level of training was excellent in pulp therapy.

Conclusion

Variations were observed in paediatric dentistry education among undergraduate dental programmes in the Arabian region in terms of topics, instruction methods, year of introduction of paediatric dentistry education, and number of clinical sessions offered. This study establishes a framework for future paediatric dentistry curriculum development and/or improvement in the Arabian region.
Effects of annealing treatment on tribological behavior of tungsten-doped diamond-like carbon film under lubrication (Part 2): Tribological behavior under MoDTC lubrication
Authors: Zhang Shaojun , Zhu Lina , Wang Yanyan , Kang Jiajie , Wang Haidou , Ma Guozheng , Huang Haipeng , Zhang Guang’an , Yue Wen
Published: August 2021

Molybdenum dialkyldithiocarbamate (MoDTC) is widely used as a friction modifier in engine lubricating oil. Under MoDTC lubrication, the friction and wear behaviors of tungsten-doped diamond-like carbon (W-DLC) films annealed at 100–400 °C were discussed and evaluated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and Raman spectroscopy. Under (polymerized alpha olefin) PAO + MoDTC lubrication, the coefficient of friction of all samples decreased, but the wear rates of the W-DLC films annealed at 300 °C increased significantly. By interacting with zinc dialkyldithiophosphate (ZDDP), the wear rates of W-DLC films annealed at different temperatures declined significantly owing to the formation of dense phosphate tribofilms on the worn surfaces.
Shoulder Pain — Where Are We Now?
Authors: Walker-Bone Karen , van der Windt Danielle AWM
Published: August 2021

Purpose of Review

Shoulder pain is common and costly. For the past century, diagnosis and management has been based upon presumed patho-anatomical abnormalities. With the evolution of imaging techniques and new insight about the causes of musculoskeletal pain, this review evaluates the evidence that a patho-anatomical approach remains justified.

Recent Findings

Imaging modalities have developed considerably but, so far, have only proven value in evaluating full thickness rotator cuff tears prior to surgery. Correlation between imaging findings and symptoms is otherwise poor, with limited evidence of the value and impact of imaging for decision-making. Much of shoulder pain is chronic and few people have single-site musculoskeletal pain. Pain studies suggest that chronic shoulder pain is associated with both central and peripheral pain sensitisation. Moreover, functional MRI points to an effect of cognitive affective pain processing rather than nociception. Few of the established therapies, medical or surgical, that treat the presumed patho-anatomical cause have been shown to have lasting benefit.

Much of the evidence suggests that shoulder pain is more similar than different from mechanical low back pain. For most people with shoulder pain, the best approach might well be de-medicalisation, support to (self)manage pain, emphasis on retaining movement and identifying adverse beliefs and risk factors for disability and chronicity. Approaches like this are currently being evaluated and more research is desperately required.
Sigma receptors and neurological disorders
Authors: Piechal Agnieszka , Jakimiuk Alicja , Mirowska-Guzel Dagmara
Published: August 2021

Abstarct

Sigma receptors were identified relatively recently, and their presence has been confirmed in the central nervous system and peripheral organs. Changes in sigma receptor function or expression may be involved in neurological diseases, and thus sigma receptors represent a potential target for treating central nervous system disorders. Many substances that are ligands for sigma receptors are widely used in therapies for neurological disorders. In the present review, we discuss the roles of sigma receptors, especially in the central nervous system disorders, and related therapies.

Graphic abstract