bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SUZ12 participates in the proliferation of PNH clones by regulating histone H3K27me3 levels
Authors: Chen Yingying , Liu Hui , Zeng Lijie , Li Liyan , Lu Dan , Liu Zhaoyun , Fu Rong
Published: January 2022

Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) is a disease involving hematopoietic stem cell membrane defects caused by acquired phosphatidylinositol glycan anchor biosynthesis class A (PIGA) mutations. In this study, 97 target genes were selected as a target gene panel and screened in 23 PNH patients via the sequencing of specific DNA target regions. Through functional analysis, we identified that suppressor-of-Zeste 12 (SUZ12) may be involved in the proliferation of PNH clones. mRNA and protein expression levels of SUZ12 and the trimethylation level of histone H3 at lysine 27 (H3K27) in CD59– peripheral blood leukocytes from PNH patients were higher than those in CD59+ cells from PNH patients and peripheral blood leukocytes from healthy controls. In addition, the relative expression of SUZ12 in PNH patients was positively correlated with Ret% and the proportion of PNH clones. When we knocked down SUZ12 expression in a PIGA knockdown THP-1 cell line (THP-1 KD cells), the trimethylation of histone H3K27(H3K27me3) and cell proliferation decreased, apoptosis increased, and cell cycle arrest occurred in G0/G1 phase. In conclusion, SUZ12 participates in the proliferation of PNH clones by regulating histone H3K27me3 levels. Our results may provide new therapeutic targets and possibilities for PNH patients.
Effect of Topical Nasal Anesthetic on Comfort and Swallowing in High‐Resolution Impedance Manometry
Authors: Kwong Seh Ling , Hernandez Ester G. , Winiker Katharina , Gozdzikowska Kristin , Macrae Phoebe , Huckabee Maggie‐Lee
Published: January 2022

Objectives/Hypothesis

Use of topical nasal anesthetic (TNA) is common in high‐resolution impedance manometry (HRIM). This study investigated the effect of TNA on swallowing and procedure tolerability during HRIM with a 4.2‐mm catheter, a more commonly used catheter size with impedance capabilities.

Study Design

Randomised experimental study with blinding of participants.

Methods

Twenty healthy participants (mean age = 33 years, 16 female) were randomized to undergo HRIM using the ManoScan™ ESO Z 4.2‐mm catheter twice, 1 week apart, under two conditions: with TNA (viscous lidocaine) and with placebo. Analyses included esophageal data of three saliva, three saline (5 mL), and three bread swallows (2 cm × 2 cm) performed while reclined 45°, and pharyngeal data under the same conditions while seated upright. Pharyngeal and upper esophageal sphincter (UES) HRIM parameters were analyzed using the Swallow Gateway analysis platform. Visual analogue scale (VAS) scores rating procedural comfort were analyzed.

Results

There were no significant physiological differences in pharyngeal and UES parameters between conditions. There were also no significant differences in VAS scores under placebo (mean = 54.8, standard deviation (SD) = 19.3) and TNA (mean = 60.0, SD = 21.9) (t[19] = −0.9, P = .4) conditions; however, there was a significant difference in the first versus second session (t[19]) = 5.1, P < .05).

Conclusions

TNA did not improve comfort, but it also did not significantly affect swallowing behavior. There was, however, a practice effect regardless of TNA use with improved tolerance of the 4.2‐mm catheter and likely more natural swallowing behavior during the second session of HRIM.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 132:2124–2131, 2022
Role of physico‐chemical properties of the soil in badlands forming processes around Chitrakoot, India
Authors: Singh Nikhilesh , Jha Medha , Tignath Sanjay , Singh Bhola Nath , Chattopadhyay Arghya
Published: January 2022

Eco‐restoration attempts in badlands are generally not fully successful because physical solutions such as reshaping and leveling of gullies and ravines to check erosion and soil losses prove to be temporary in nature. In this context, it leads to conceptualization that the cause of badland formation is not merely topographical but should be related to changes in the intrinsic properties of soils. There is a lack of understanding as to the formative role of physico‐chemical characteristics of soils in the formation of badlands. The objective of our study is to determine such critical physico‐chemical characteristics of soils that are responsible for the onset of a self‐aggravating erosive network of badlands by undertaking a case‐study of part of the Mandakini River watershed, Chitrakoot, India. Standard IS codes were followed in determining these properties. These soils have a silt‐loam texture with high bulk density. Depletion of clays lowered Atterberg limits which consequently rendered the soils unstable even at low values of moisture content. The overlay analysis of these properties and drainage frequency shows perfect superimposition in categorizing badlands into zones of the severity of degradation. The chemistry of these soils has low sodium, high calcium with the presence of calcretes, low organic matter, and a low amount of illites and are mostly alkaline. The outcome of the study is helpful in understanding mutual interdependence between soil characteristics and processes of badlands that led to the intensification of rills‐gullies‐channels network. The findings would be useful in land management planning.
Surgical Outcomes of Domino Liver Transplantation Using Grafts From Living Donors With Familial Amyloid Polyneuropathy
Authors: Yamamoto Hidekazu , Sambommatsu Yuzuru , Ishii Masatsugu , Shimata Keita , Isono Kaori , Honda Masaki , Sugawara Yasuhiko , Inomata Yukihiro , Hibi Taizo
Published: January 2022

Domino liver transplantation (DLT) using grafts from donors with familial amyloid polyneuropathy is an acceptable procedure for expanding the donor pool. The vascular and biliary reconstructions in living donor DLT (LDDLT) are technically demanding, and data on the short‐term and long‐term surgical outcomes of domino donors and recipients in LDDLT are limited. In this study, we identified 25 domino recipients from our liver transplantation program (1999‐2018), analyzed the vascular and biliary reconstructions performed, and evaluated the surgical outcomes, including graft survival. Piggyback technique was adopted in all 25 domino donors. The only surgical complication in domino donors was hepatic vein (HV) stenosis with an incidence rate of 4%. In 22 domino recipients, right HV and middle/left HV were reconstructed separately. A total of 10 recipients had 2 arteries anastomosed, and 18 underwent duct‐to‐duct biliary anastomosis. HV stenosis and biliary stricture had incidence rates of 8% and 24%, respectively, in the recipients, but none of them developed hepatic artery thrombosis. The 1‐year and 5‐year graft survival rates were 100% each in the domino donors, and 84.0% and 67.3% in the domino recipients, respectively. In conclusion, LDDLT has acceptable outcomes without increasing the operative risk in donors despite the demanding surgical technique involved.
Weak solutions and simulations to a square phase‐field crystal model with Neumann boundary conditions
Authors: Wu Fan , Zhu Zixian
Published: January 2022

We consider an initial‐boundary value problem of a square phase‐field crystal (SPFC) model, which is a nonlinear parabolic equation of sixth‐order. The model is a variant of the so‐called phase‐field crystal (PFC) model, introduced by K. R. Elder et al. This variant is more suitable to model the square symmetry crystal dynamics on atomic length and diffusive time scales. Here we analyze the SPFC equation endowed with Neumann boundary conditions in a bounded space. We first prove the existence and uniqueness of weak solutions global in time to the initial‐boundary value problem in the three‐dimensional case. The proof is based on the Galerkin method. Then we prove that the problem admits a bounded absorbing set. A few numerical experiments of the model are also performed to simulate the evolution of crystal growth.
Elliptic biquaternionic equations of gravitoelectromagnetism
Authors: Derin Zülal , Güngör Mehmet Ali
Published: January 2022

In this paper, we propose to write the generalization of gravity, including the Proca‐type and gravitomagnetic monopole terms through a new algebraic structure elliptic biquaternions. The most generalized form of Klein–Gordon equation is discussed in a more compact and useful formulation for the particle carrying gravitational mass in terms of elliptic biquaternions. Further, electromagnetic energy conservation with magnetic monopole terms is also discussed in terms of elliptic biquaternions.
Tuning magnetic response and ionic conductivity of electrospun hybrid membranes for tissue regeneration strategies
Authors: Hermenegildo Bruno , Correia Daniela M. , Ribeiro Clarisse , Serra João P. , Pérez Leyre , Vilas‐Vilela José L. , Lanceros‐Méndez Senentxu
Published: January 2022

Electrospun membranes play an increasing role in tissue regeneration base on their suitable morphological features. The implementation of active response, such as magnetically responsiveness or piezo‐ionic features can further improve tissue regeneration by better resembling varying microenvironment during cell culture. In this context, this work reports on the development of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) oriented (O) and randomly (R) oriented electrospun fibers containing different amounts of iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe3O4, NP) or ionic liquid (IL) choline bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl) imide ([Chol][TFSI]) (5, 10, and 15% wt).The addition of the fillers did not result in significant differences in the morphology of the electrospunfibers or their degradation temperature. PVDF‐O + IL fibers present diameters between 0.98 and 1.28 μm, crystallinity between 52% and 59% and electroactive PVDF β‐phase content between 73% and 88%. PVDF‐R + IL fiber diameter ranges from 1.29 to 1.97 μm, crystallinity between 46% and 55% and β‐phase content between 79% and 82%. The PVDF‐O + Fe3O4 fiber diameter varied between 0.81 and 1.07 μm, crystallinity between 48% and 59% and β‐phase between 73% and 81%. The effective NP content in the fibers followed a nearly linear relation with the theoretical values, with experimental yields between 93% and 97%. Further, the inclusion of IL into PVDF matrix leads to an increase of the ionic conductivity up to 2.6 × 10−9 S.cm−1 for the sample with 15% IL content. Finally, the potential of the materials for tissue engineering was evaluated, by analyzing its cytotoxicity for L929 fibroblasts, with cell viability results of over 90% indicating the cytocompatibility of these materials.
Head‐to‐tail cyclization of side chain‐protected linear peptides to recapitulate genetically‐encoded cyclized peptides
Authors: Bouayad‐Gervais Samir , St‐Cyr Daniel J. , Courcelles Mathieu , Bonneil Éric , Gohard Florence H. , Thibault Pierre , Earnshaw William C. , Tyers Mike
Published: January 2022

Genetically‐encoded cyclic peptide libraries allow rapid in vivo screens for inhibitors of any target protein of interest. In particular, the Split Intein Circular Ligation of Protein and Peptides (SICLOPPS) system exploits spontaneous protein splicing of inteins to produce intracellular cyclic peptides. A previous SICLOPPS screen against Aurora B kinase, which plays a critical role during chromosome segregation, identified several candidate inhibitors that we sought to recapitulate by chemical synthesis. We describe the syntheses of cyclic peptide hits and analogs via solution‐phase macrocyclization of side chain‐protected linear peptides obtained from standard solid‐phase peptide synthesis. Cyclic peptide targets, including cyclo‐[CTWAR], were designed to match both the variable portions and conserved cysteine residue of their genetically‐encoded counterparts. Synthetic products were characterized by tandem high‐resolution mass spectrometry to analyze a combination of exact mass, isotopic pattern, and collisional dissociation‐induced fragmentation pattern. The latter analyses facilitated the distinction between targets and oligomeric side products, and served to confirm peptidic sequences in a manner that can be readily extended to analyses of complex biological samples. This alternative chemical synthesis approach for cyclic peptides allows cost‐effective validation and facile chemical elaboration of hit candidates from SICLOPPS screens.
Evaluation of the safety of cefepime prolonged infusions in pediatric patients with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Imburgia Taylor A. , Engdahl Samantha R. , Pettit Rebecca S.
Published: January 2022

Objective

Pediatric cystic fibrosis (CF) patients possess unique pharmacokinetics and may benefit from prolonged beta‐lactam infusions to optimize pharmacodynamics. This study compared adverse drug event (ADE) rates with cefepime prolonged (PI) and standard infusions (SI).

Methods

This retrospective study included pediatric patients treated with cefepime for CF exacerbations between 2009 and 2019. One encounter per patient was analyzed with prioritization of SI encounters given sample size limitations. Baseline lab abnormalities, seizure disorders, and bleeding were exclusion criteria. The primary outcome was a composite safety endpoint (acute kidney injury [AKI], hepatotoxicity, hematologic toxicity, neurotoxicity, and hypersensitivity).

Results

Of 188 patients, 135 received PI and 53 received SI. Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. More PI patients used CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulators (25% vs. 0%, p < 0.01) or had antibiotic allergies (62% vs. 38%, p = 0.02). Difference in rates of composite safety endpoint was not statistically significant between PI and SI (21 [15.6%] vs. 6 [11.3%] p = 0.46) nor was incidence of AKI (16 [11.8%] vs. 6 [11.3%], p = 0.92). Other ADEs were rarely observed. Length of stay (12.2 vs. 10.1 days, p = 0.06), change in discharge ppFEV1 from admission (13 vs. 12, p = 0.91) or from baseline (−4 vs. −6.5, p = 0.33), and time to next exacerbation (249.7 vs. 192.5 days, p = 0.93) were similar.

Conclusions

No difference in risk of ADEs including AKI was seen with cefepime PI in pediatric CF patients. Clinical outcomes were not significantly different between groups, but sample size may have limited comparison. PI cefepime may be considered in pediatric CF patients to optimize pharmacodynamics.
Sanitary measures considerably improve the management of resistant Norway rats on livestock farms
Authors: Esther Alexandra , Hansen Sabine C , Klemann Nicole , Gabriel Doreen
Published: January 2022

BACKGROUND

Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) need to be controlled to prevent transmission of pathogens and damages to stored products and material, leading to considerable economic risks and losses. Given increasing resistance in Norway rats, the most persistent, bio‐accumulative and toxic anticoagulant rodenticides are widely used for management, which presents hazards to the environment especially for non‐target species. We investigated how sanitary measures improved management of Norway rats on 12 paired livestock farms in a region of Germany with a high population of resistant rats for reducing application of rodenticides. We recorded food intake, and tracked activity and resistance frequency during the pre‐treatment, treatment and post‐treatment periods.

RESULTS

In the post‐treatment period, farms using sanitary measures had a higher control success with > 13% more bait boxes without feeding than farms not using sanitary measures. In addition, the reoccurrence of rats was delayed by 85 days. With increasing accessibility to buildings and more precise positioning of the boxes, control success improved, especially when rats could not spread from water‐bearing ditches through the sewer system, and when rat‐hunting animals were present. Resistant animals were more common indoors than outdoors, and there were more resistant rats recorded before and during treatment than in the post‐treatment period.

CONCLUSION

The control success was substantially higher and reoccurrence was delayed using sanitary measures on farms. Sanitary measures can reduce resistance indirectly due to delayed re‐colonization and establishment of resistant populations inside buildings. Hence, sanitary measures help to reduce economic losses, rodenticides required for rat management and environmental risk especially in the resistance area. © 2022 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Titanium‐Based Vacancy‐Ordered Double Halide Family in Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Aslam Sameen , Farooqi Ahmad Salam , Rahman Mohd Yusri Abd , Samsuri Siti Azrah Mohamad
Published: January 2022

The toxicity and stability risk of perovskite structured materials have raised concerns in respective to utilization as a solar energy conversion material. The most common perovskite structured material is lead (Pb)‐based, which is an element that is knowingly toxic to humans and the environment. Although the stability issue has been well allayed with several optimizations, the ruinous Pb remains a future challenge for perovskite solar cells. Compositional and structural derivatives of the perovskite family, specifically vacancy‐ordered double halide perovskites (DHPs), have attracted the attention of researchers in terms of efficiency and toxicity issues subjugation. Although tin (Sn)‐based vacancy‐ordered DHPs have been widely explored, the intrinsic property conduces low performance output. Titanium (Ti) is a potential substituting candidate of Sn in a vacancy‐ordered DHPs structure. It is an environment‐friendly element ideal for sustainable perovskite structured compositions. Rudimentary studies of Ti‐based vacancy‐ordered DHPs emphasized its potential development as an eco‐friendly and stable solar cell. In promoting the development of Ti‐based vacancy‐ordered DHPs as potential absorbers, we summarized herein the recent progress of experimental and theoretical studies of this perovskite material.
Viability of half‐sandwich complex of heavier group‐14 elements (SiPb) with neutral Be3ring and its potential application asH2storage material
Authors: Kalita Amlan J. , Dutta Priyanka , Yashmin Farnaz , Borah Ritam R. , Deka Rinu P. , Guha Ankur K.
Published: January 2022

High level ab initio calculations were carried out to establish the half‐sandwich structural behavior of heavier group‐14 elements (SiPb) with neutral Be3ring fragment and their molecular hydrogen adsorption capacity. The proposed complexes are found to be global minima on the potential energy surface after a rigorous systematic isomeric search. Quantum chemical investigation revealed that the complexes found possess high bond dissociation energy and also favorable thermodynamics of their formation. The complexes were also found to possess significant aromatic behavior. Among all the complexes, gravimetric density reaches more than the target level by US DOE in case of Be3Si and Be3Ge system which makes them potential target for molecular H2storage. Furthermore, the average adsorption energy,Eadfor these two complexes ranges between physisorption and chemisorption process, thereby suggesting their reversible H2storage property.
Preparation and electrocatalytic property of three‐dimensional nano‐dendritic platinum oxide film
Authors: Shen Yue , Li Sixie , Wang Chuanjun , Xu Yanting , Chao Yunxiu , Shi Chenqi , Wen Ming
Published: January 2022

Platinum oxide electrode, as an important part of hydrogen concentration monitoring sensor built in containment, needs to withstand extreme conditions such as high temperature, high humidity, and high irradiation and can still work normally even in the case of serious accidents, which puts forward higher requirements for its performance. In present study, platinum oxide film electrode was successfully prepared with three‐dimensional nano‐dendritic, uniform, and crack‐free on platinum substrate by reactive magnetron sputtering, and the influence of different substrate temperature and sputtering atmosphere on the composition, morphology, and electrocatalytic property of the film was investigated. The results show that platinum oxide film is composed of PtO and PtO2. As the temperature increases from room temperature (RT) to 200°C, the oxygen vacancies in the amorphous film are gradually repaired and convert to the crystalline state, which shows increasing PtO2 ratio, increasing electrochemical active area (ECSA), and improved stability. When the temperature is rising to 400°C, the film shows decreasing oxygen vacancies, increasing average grain size. Because PtO2 decomposes into PtO and Pt, and thus ECSA decreases, the stability and oxygen reduction activity of the films decreases gradually. At the same temperature, the crystalline film obtained in Ar/50%O2 has higher concentration of oxygen vacancies and smaller average grain size than that obtained in O2, resulting in larger ECSA and relatively good stability. By contrast, the platinum oxide film electrode prepared in Ar/50%O2 and 200°C has better stability and excellent electrocatalytic activity for oxygen reduction.
Optimal sampling for design‐based estimators of regression models
Authors: Chen Tong , Lumley Thomas
Published: January 2022

Two‐phase designs measure variables of interest on a subcohort where the outcome and covariates are readily available or cheap to collect on all individuals in the cohort. Given limited resource availability, it is of interest to find an optimal design that includes more informative individuals in the final sample. We explore the optimal designs and efficiencies for analyses by design‐based estimators. Generalized raking is an efficient class of design‐based estimators, and they improve on the inverse‐probability weighted (IPW) estimator by adjusting weights based on the auxiliary information. We derive a closed‐form solution of the optimal design for estimating regression coefficients from generalized raking estimators. We compare it with the optimal design for analysis via the IPW estimator and other two‐phase designs in measurement‐error settings. We consider general two‐phase designs where the outcome variable and variables of interest can be continuous or discrete. Our results show that the optimal designs for analyses by the two classes of design‐based estimators can be very different. The optimal design for analysis via the IPW estimator is optimal for IPW estimation and typically gives near‐optimal efficiency for generalized raking estimation, though we show there is potential improvement in some settings.
Molecular Interface Engineering via Triazatruxene‐Based Moieties/NiOx as Hole‐Selective Bilayers in Perovskite Solar Cells for Reliability
Authors: Hemasiri Naveen Harindu , Caliò Laura , Pegu Meenakshi , Kazim Samrana , Ahmad Shahzada
Published: January 2022

Interface engineering is an effective approach to decrease nonradiative recombination and the energy barrier at the perovskite/hole transporting layer (HTL) interfaces. To overcome such limitations, an organic semiconductor (DTT‐EHDI

2

) is proposed, which is, composed of dithienothiophene (DTT) as the core and a planar triazatruxene incorporating an alkyl chain as the side group. This is noted to be an effective interfacial layer for inverted planar perovskite solar cells (PSCs). The altered interface effectively minimizes the detrimental charge recombination and tailors the photoinduced charge transfer dynamics at the interface of the inorganic HTL/perovskite. The π‐conjugation in DTT‐EHDI

2
induces high hole mobility and electrical conductivity via electron‐donating properties and strong π–π intermolecular interaction. The synergetic approach leads to a substantial performance enhancement in dopant‐free DTT‐EHDI

2
‐based inverted planar PSCs, achieving 18.15% power conversion efficiency with negligible hysteresis effect. The present approach provides an effective direction of the cost‐effective thiophene derivative as an interfacial agent to escalate the optoelectronic performances in photovoltaics.
Preoperative planning using computed tomography in tibial plateau levelling osteotomy: A comparison with conventional radiography
Authors: Kim Jayon , Ko Jaeeun , Eom Kidong , Kim Jaehwan
Published: January 2022

Background

Tibial plateau levelling osteotomy (TPLO) is currently one of the most common surgical procedures for the correction of the stifle joint with a ruptured cranial cruciate ligament. TPLO is based on the preoperative tibial plateau angle (TPA); therefore, it is essential to optimise the consistency and repeatability of TPA measurements.

Objectives

This study aims to compare computed tomography (CT) with conventional radiography in the preoperative planning of TPLO.

Methods

This prospective study included six dogs (12 hindlimbs) and 13 canine cadaveric hindlimbs. In the six beagle dogs, TPAs were measured by three radiologists using digital radiographic and CT images to evaluate the intra‐ and inter‐observer agreement. To evaluate the intra‐observer agreement of the TPA before and after surgery, and the intended angle of the postoperative TPA according to the preoperative planning method, 13 cadaveric hindlimbs were evaluated thrice at random by a single radiologist.

Results

The intra‐ and inter‐observer intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) of the CT method were higher than those of the radiographic method in normal beagle dogs. The intra‐observer ICC of the CT method before and after TPLO was generally higher than that of the radiographic method in the cadaver. However, no significant difference was noted in the evaluation of the intended postoperative TPA according to the preoperative planning method.

Conclusions

The intra‐ and inter‐observer ICCs allowed for easy identification of landmarks required to consistently determine the TPA in the preoperative planning of TPLO based on CT images.
The holographic c-theorem and infinite-dimensional Lie algebras
Authors: Bergshoeff Eric A. , Ozkan Mehmet , Zöğ Mustafa Salih
Published: January 2022

Abstract

We discuss a non-dynamical theory of gravity in three dimensions which is based on an infinite-dimensional Lie algebra that is closely related to an infinite-dimensional extended AdS algebra. We find an intriguing connection between on the one hand higher-derivative gravity theories that are consistent with the holographic c-theorem and on the other hand truncations of this infinite-dimensional Lie algebra that violate the Lie algebra structure. We show that in three dimensions different truncations reproduce, up to terms that do not contribute to the c-theorem, Chern-Simons-like gravity models describing extended 3D massive gravity theories. Performing the same procedure with similar truncations in dimensions larger than or equal to four reproduces higher derivative gravity models that are known in the literature to be consistent with the c-theorem but do not have an obvious connection to massive gravity like in three dimensions.
Hybrid inflation and waterfall field in string theory from D7-branes
Authors: Antoniadis Ignatios , Lacombe Osmin , Leontaris George K.
Published: January 2022

Abstract

We present an explicit string realisation of a cosmological inflationary scenario we proposed recently within the framework of type IIB flux compactifications in the presence of three magnetisedD7-brane stacks. Inflation takes place around a metastable de Sitter vacuum. The inflaton is identified with the volume modulus and has a potential with a very shallow minimum near the maximum. Inflation ends due to the presence of “waterfall” fields that drive the evolution of the Universe from a nearby saddle point towards a global minimum with tuneable vacuum energy describing the present state of our Universe.
Calibration of the Latest Generation Superconducting Gravimeter iGrav-043 Using the Observatory Superconducting Gravimeter OSG-CT040 and the Comparisons of Their Characteristics at the Walferdange Underground Laboratory for Geodynamics, Luxembourg
Authors: Elsaka Basem , Francis Olivier , Kusche Jürgen
Published: January 2022

In December 2019, the latest generation transportable superconducting gravimeter (SG) iGrav-043 purchased by the University of Bonn was installed in the Walferdange Underground Laboratory for Geodynamics (WULG) in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. In this paper, we estimate the calibration factor of the iGrav-043, which is essential for long-term gravity monitoring. We used simultaneously collected gravity data from the un-calibrated iGrav-043 and the calibrated Observatory superconducting gravimeter OSG-CT040 that operates continuously at WULG since 2002. The tidal analysis provides a simple way to transfer the calibration factor of one SG to the other. We then assess and compare tidal analyses, instrumental drifts and high frequency noises. After 20 years of continuous operation, the instrumental drift of the OSG-CT040 is almost zero. From 533 days of joint operation, we found that the instrumental drift of iGrav-043 exhibits a composite behavior: just after the setup and for two months a fast exponential decrease of 171 nm s−2, then a linear with a rate of 66 nm s−2 ± 10 nm s−2 per year. We suggest that a period of 3 months is sufficient for calibrating the iGrav. Accidental electrical power cuts triggered slight differences in the reaction and recovery of the OSG-CT040 and iGrav-043. However, it has been found that the long-term linear behavior of the drift was not affected.
Mechanical Thrombectomy in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke and Concomitant Intracranial Hemorrhage
Authors: Weller Johannes M. , Meissner Julius N. , Stösser Sebastian , Dorn Franziska , Petzold Gabor C. , Bode Felix J. ,   GSR-ET investigators, Reich A. , Nikoubashman O. , Röther J. , Eckert B. , Braun M. , Hamann G. F. , Siebert E. , Nolte C. H. , Bohner G. , Eckert R. M. , Borggrefe J. , Schellinger P. , Berrouschot J. , Bormann A. , Kraemer C. , Leischner H. , Petersen M. , Stögbauer F. , Boeck-Behrens T. , Wunderlich S. , Ludolph A. , Henn K. H. , Gerloff C. , Fiehler J. , Thomalla G. , Alegiani A. , Schäfer J. H. , Keil F. , Tiedt S. , Kellert L. , Trumm C. , Ernemann U. , Poli S. , Liman J. , Ernst M. , Gröschel K. , Uphaus T.
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Intravenous thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy (MT) are standard of care in patients with acute ischemic stroke due to large vessel occlusion. Data on MT in patients with intracranial hemorrhage prior to intervention is limited to anecdotal reports, as these patients were excluded from thrombectomy trials.

Methods

We analyzed patients from an observational multicenter cohort with acute ischemic stroke and endovascular treatment, the German Stroke Registry—Endovascular Treatment trial, with intracranial hemorrhage before MT. Baseline characteristics, procedural parameters and functional outcome at 90 days were analyzed and compared to a propensity score matched cohort.

Results

Out of 6635 patients, we identified 32 patients (0.5%) with acute ischemic stroke due to large vessel occlusion and preinterventional intracranial hemorrhage who underwent MT. Risk factors of intracranial hemorrhage were head trauma, oral anticoagulation and intravenous thrombolysis. Overall mortality was high (50%) but among patients with a premorbid modified Rankin scale (mRS) of 0–2 (n = 15), good clinical outcome (mRS 0–2) at 90 days was achieved in 40% of patients. Periprocedural and outcome results did not differ between patients with and without preinterventional intracranial hemorrhage.

Conclusion

Preinterventional intracranial hemorrhage in acute ischemic stroke patients with large vessel occlusion is rare. The use of MT is technically feasible and a substantial number of patients achieve good clinical outcome, indicating that MT should not be withheld in patients with preinterventional intracranial hemorrhage.
The sociodemographic and clinical profile of patients with major depressive disorder receiving SSRIs as first-line antidepressant treatment in European countries
Authors: Fugger Gernot , Bartova Lucie , Fabbri Chiara , Fanelli Giuseppe , Dold Markus , Swoboda Marleen Margret Mignon , Kautzky Alexander , Zohar Joseph , Souery Daniel , Mendlewicz Julien , Montgomery Stuart , Rujescu Dan , Serretti Alessandro , Kasper Siegfried
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Due to favorable antidepressant (AD) efficacy and tolerability, selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are consistently recommended as substances of first choice for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in international guidelines. However, little is known about the real-world clinical correlates of patients primarily prescribed SSRIs in contrast to those receiving alternative first-line ADs.

Methods

These secondary analyses are based on a naturalistic, multinational cross-sectional study conducted by the European Group for the Study of Resistant Depression at ten research sites. We compared the socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of 1410 patients with primary MDD, who were either prescribed SSRIs or alternative substances as first-line AD treatment, using chi-squared tests, analyses of covariance, and logistic regression analyses.

Results

SSRIs were prescribed in 52.1% of MDD patients who showed lower odds for unemployment, current severity of depressive symptoms, melancholic features, suicidality, as well as current inpatient treatment compared to patients receiving alternative first-line ADs. Furthermore, patients prescribed SSRIs less likely received add-on therapies including AD combination and augmentation with antipsychotics, and exhibited a trend towards higher response rates.

Conclusion

A more favorable socio-demographic and clinical profile associated with SSRIs in contrast to alternative first-line ADs may have guided European psychiatrists’ treatment choice for SSRIs, rather than any relevant pharmacological differences in mechanisms of action of the investigated ADs. Our results must be cautiously interpreted in light of predictable biases resulting from the open treatment selection, the possible allocation of less severely ill patients to SSRIs as well as the cross-sectional study design that does not allow to ascertain any causal conclusions.
Incidence, prevalence, and outcome of moderate to severe neurotrophic keratopathy in a German tertiary referral center from 2013 to 2017
Authors: Roth Mathias , Dierse Sebastian , Alder Jan , Holtmann Christoph , Geerling Gerd
Published: January 2022

Background

Neurotrophic keratopathy (NK) is an orphan disease, with an estimated prevalence of 1–5/10,000. No data regarding the incidence exists. The primary aim was to evaluate incidence and prevalence of NK at a tertiary referral center in Germany, and the secondary aim was to analyze demographic parameters, etiology, and clinical features and therapeutic outcomes.

Methods and material

All patients treated for NK with serum eye drops (SED), amnionic membrane transplantation (AMT), or penetrating keratoplasty (PK) in 2013–2017 were identified. Age, sex, etiology of NK, visual acuity, disease stage, treatment, and visual acuity were analyzed. Incidence and prevalence of NK in our hospital and the overall population of the city were calculated.

Results

In 63 eyes of 60 patients (56.7% male; 68 ± 16 years), the most common underlying diseases were herpetic infections (23.8%), neurological causes (19%), and diabetes mellitus (14.3%). The annual incidence of NK in our tertiary referral center ranges between 5/10,000 and 3/10,000, the prevalence between 9/10,00 and 22/10,000. In all patients treated with corneal ulcers, the prevalence was up to 27% (2706/10,000). The incidence in the overall population is estimated at 0.1–0.3/10,000, the prevalence at 0.2–0.5/10,000 to 0.5/10,000.

Conclusion

Based on our assessment, the prevalence of NK in the overall population is lower than estimated before. However, in patients with corneal ulcers, the percentage of NK is comparably high. The disease may still be underdiagnosed due to the variety of underlying disorders and unknown comorbidities. Thus, in cases of therapy-refractive superficial keratopathy or ulcerations, NK should be considered more frequently.
Interpretable generative deep learning: an illustration with single cell gene expression data
Authors: Treppner Martin , Binder Harald , Hess Moritz
Published: January 2022

Deep generative models can learn the underlying structure, such as pathways or gene programs, from omics data. We provide an introduction as well as an overview of such techniques, specifically illustrating their use with single-cell gene expression data. For example, the low dimensional latent representations offered by various approaches, such as variational auto-encoders, are useful to get a better understanding of the relations between observed gene expressions and experimental factors or phenotypes. Furthermore, by providing a generative model for the latent and observed variables, deep generative models can generate synthetic observations, which allow us to assess the uncertainty in the learned representations. While deep generative models are useful to learn the structure of high-dimensional omics data by efficiently capturing non-linear dependencies between genes, they are sometimes difficult to interpret due to their neural network building blocks. More precisely, to understand the relationship between learned latent variables and observed variables, e.g., gene transcript abundances and external phenotypes, is difficult. Therefore, we also illustrate current approaches that allow us to infer the relationship between learned latent variables and observed variables as well as external phenotypes. Thereby, we render deep learning approaches more interpretable. In an application with single-cell gene expression data, we demonstrate the utility of the discussed methods.
Oral health–related quality of life (OHRQOL) of preschool children’s anterior teeth restored with zirconia crowns versus resin-bonded composite strip crowns: a 12-month prospective clinical trial
Authors: Elheeny Ahmad Abdel Hamid , Abdelmotelb Mahmoud Ahmed
Published: January 2022

Objectives

To compare oral health–related quality of Life (OHRQOL) of preschool children’s anterior teeth restored with prefabricated zirconia crowns (ZC) versus resin-bonded composite strip crown (RCSC).

Materials and methods

A prospective clinical trial included 136 children with early childhood caries aged 36–71 months who were assigned into prefabricated ZC and RCSC groups. A total of 344 teeth were restored either with 170 ZCs (49.4%) and 174 RCSCs (50.6%). Wilson and Cleary’s conceptual model was to associate the study predictors to the OHRQOL. Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (ECOHIS) was used to assess the OHRQOL at 6 and 12 months. Mann–Whitney U test was used in comparing OHRQOL mean scores in the two groups and Wilcoxon signed-rank test with the effect size (r) to measure the intragroup OHRQOL change. A Poisson regression model was used to study potential risk factors associated with the overall OHRQOL.

Results

After 12 months, the USPHS parameters of the ZC were significantly superior compared to the RCSC. Overall ECOHIS mean scores in the ZC group were significantly lower than that of the RCSC group at T1 and T2 (p < 0.001). Remarkable enhancement of the OHRQOL at the follow-ups with a large effect size (r < 0.8) was observed. Restoration type, retention, baseline OHRQOL, and color had a significant impact on the overall OHRQOL at 12 months.

Conclusions

Preschool children OHRQOL treated with ZC were significantly better than those who received RCSC.

Clinical relevance

One of the optimum treatment standards in pediatric dentistry is the esthetic demand which has significance on the child’s OHRQOL and subsequently child’s general health quality of life. It is beneficial to the dentist to identify the influence of esthetic restorations on the OHRQOL of preschool children which aids in future decision-making. The longitudinal nature of the study enables the dentist to identify the changes of children’s OHRQOL.
Tackling the rich vehicle routing problem with nature-inspired algorithms
Authors: Lesch Veronika , König Maximilian , Kounev Samuel , Stein Anthony , Krupitzer Christian
Published: January 2022

In the last decades, the classical Vehicle Routing Problem (VRP), i.e., assigning a set of orders to vehicles and planning their routes has been intensively researched. As only the assignment of order to vehicles and their routes is already an NP-complete problem, the application of these algorithms in practice often fails to take into account the constraints and restrictions that apply in real-world applications, the so called rich VRP (rVRP) and are limited to single aspects. In this work, we incorporate the main relevant real-world constraints and requirements. We propose a two-stage strategy and a Timeline algorithm for time windows and pause times, and apply a Genetic Algorithm (GA) and Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) individually to the problem to find optimal solutions. Our evaluation of eight different problem instances against four state-of-the-art algorithms shows that our approach handles all given constraints in a reasonable time.
Introducing Parenting Support in Primary Care: Professionals’ Perspectives on the Implementation of a Positive Parenting Program
Authors: Callejas Enrique , Byrne Sonia , Rodrigo María José
Published: January 2022

While positive parenting programs are an initiative aligned with the Family-Centered Care model and the Council of Europe’s Recommendation on Positive Parenting, implementation in healthcare centers remains a challenge. The aims of this study were to (1) investigate how the hybrid version (online course plus face-to-face activities) of the program “Gain Health & Wellbeing From 0 to 3” was implemented in Spain from professionals’ perspective, and (2) explore the perceived impact of this hybrid version of the program on the implementers’ professional development. We used a qualitative mixed-methods design that included focus groups and surveys. Fifty professionals from 17 centers completed the survey on professional development. Thirty-one of these also participated in the focus groups to address the first aim. The key themes identified from the focus group were professional training, parent recruitment, program features, organizational issues, parental responses, and program sustainability. Survey results related to positive professional impact fit nicely with subthemes concerning collaboration with parents, parental needs, center coordination, and future expectations. The perceived relevance of the parenting program and its positive impact on the implementers’ professional development were potential predictors for the adoption and sustainability of the program in the public health system.
Entrapment, temptation and virtue testing
Authors: Hill Daniel J. , McLeod Stephen K. , Tanyi Attila
Published: January 2022

We address the ethics of scenarios in which one party (the ‘agent’) entraps, intentionally tempts or intentionally tests the virtue of another (the ‘target’). We classify, in a new manner, three distinct types of acts that are of concern, namely acts of entrapment, of (mere) intentional temptation and of (mere) virtue testing. Our classification is, for each kind of scenario, of itself neutral concerning the question whether the agent acts permissibly (and concerning the extent to which the target is culpable). We explain why acts of entrapment are more ethically objectionable than like acts of (mere) intentional temptation and why these, in turn, are more ethically objectionable than like acts of (mere) virtue testing. Along the way, we scrutinize, and eventually reject, the view that acts of entrapment are ethically unacceptable because intentional temptation is involved in entrapment. (The article touches upon, but is not about, the question of culpability.)
A qualitative assessment of QCA: method stretching in large-N studies and temporality
Authors: Finn Victoria
Published: January 2022

Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) is a descriptive research method that can provide causal explanations for an outcome of interest. Despite extensive quantitative assessments of the method, my objective is to contribute to the scholarly discussion with insights constructed through a qualitative lens. Researchers using the QCA approach have less ability to incorporate and nuance information on set membership as the number of cases grows. While recognizing the suggested ways to overcome such challenges, I argue that since setting criteria for membership, calibrating, and categorizing are crucial QCA aspects that require in-depth knowledge, QCA is unfit for larger-N studies. Additionally, I also discuss that while the method is able to identify various parts of a causal configuration—the ‘what’—it falls short to shed light on the ‘how’ and ‘why,’ especially when temporality matters. Researchers can complement it with other methods, such as process tracing and case studies, to fill in these missing explanatory pieces or clarify contradictions—which begs the question of why they would also choose to use QCA.
Soil and Leaf Mineral Element Contents in Mediterranean Vineyards: Bioaccumulation and Potential Soil Pollution
Authors: Jiménez-Ballesta R. , Bravo S. , Amorós J. A. , Pérez-de-los-Reyes C. , García-Pradas J. , Sanchez M. , García-Navarro F. J.
Published: January 2022

The study reported here concerns the geochemical distributions of macro- and trace elements (including potentially toxic elements, PTEs) in the vineyard soils of Alcubillas, which is one of the oldest, albeit not world-renowned, wine-growing areas in La Mancha (Central Spain). Soil and leaf samples were analyzed by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry to ascertain the levels of various elements in the soil and the plant. The potential toxicity of the elements was assessed with regard to the development of the vineyard. Despite the fact that fertilizers and pesticides are employed in the vineyards in this area, the results showed that the levels of trace elements in the soil samples did not exceed the reference values according the pedogeochemical values for the region and Spain. This finding suggests that the study area is not polluted, and therefore, there are hardly any traces of anthropogenic contamination. The Biological Absorption Coefficient (BAC) was calculated to assess the assimilation of various elements from the soil to the leaves, and differences were found in the element absorption capacity of the vines. Some elements were not taken up by Vitis vinifera despite elements like Zr and Rb being present in relatively high concentrations in the soil. The production in these soils does not represent a threat to human health or the ecosystem, because the farmers in this area are extremely careful to preserve the environment and they only farm to achieve moderate yields of grapes per hectare.