bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk of depression after diagnostic prostate cancer workup – A nationwide, registry‐based study
Authors: Friberg Anne Sofie , Brasso Klaus , Larsen Signe Benzon , Andersen Elisabeth Wreford , Krøyer Anja , Helgstrand John Thomas , Røder Martin Andreas , Klemann Nina , Kessing Lars Vedel , Johansen Christoffer , Dalton Susanne Oksbjerg
Published: July 2021

Objective

To compare the risk of depression after diagnostic workup for prostate cancer (PCa), regardless of the histopathologic outcome, with that of a cancer‐free population.

Methods

A nationwide cohort of Danish men who had a prostatic biopsy sample in 1998–2011 was identified from the Danish Prostate Cancer Registry and compared to an age‐matched cohort from the background population. Men with other cancers, major psychiatric disorder, or prior use of antidepressants were excluded. The risk of depression defined as hospital contact for depression or prescription for antidepressants was determined from cumulative incidence functions and multivariate Cox regression models.

Results

Of 54,766 men who underwent diagnostic workup for PCa, benign results were found for 21,418 and PCa was diagnosed in 33,347. During up to 18 years of follow‐up, the adjusted hazard of depression was higher in men with PCa than in the background population, with the highest risk in the two years after diagnosis (hazard ratio (HR) 2.77, 95% CI 2.66–2.87). Comorbidity and lowest or highest income were significant risk factors for depression and the cumulative incidence was substantially higher in men with metastatic or high‐risk disease. In men with benign histopathology the HR for depression was 1.22 (95% CI 1.14–1.31) in the first two years but no different from the background population after that.

Conclusions

Diagnostic workup for PCa is associated with an increased risk of depression, mainly among men with a diagnosis of PCa. Clinicians should be aware of depressive symptoms in prostate cancer patients.
Analyses and Excess Oxygen Investigations by Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy and Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy at AlOx/Si Interfaces in Passivated Emitter and Rear Solar Cells
Authors: Naumann Volker , Schütze Matthias , Hähnel Angelika , Lange Stefan , Müller Alexander , Hagendorf Christian
Published: July 2021

Progressive optimization of the surface passivation of Si solar cells requires access to the elemental composition and chemical bonding characteristics of ultrathin layers and buried interfaces on textured or structured surfaces. The passivation of the rear side of passivated emitter and rear solar cells, for instance, can be realized through AlOx/SiNx stacks, which are known to provide an additional field effect passivation on top of the chemical surface passivation. Herein, transmission electron microscopy is used at locally prepared cross‐sections of such stacks. Electron energy loss spectroscopy is used to extract depth‐resolved information of elemental composition and chemical bonding at nanometer scale. With this, the interfacial excess O fraction, which is crucial for the field effect passivation, is successfully determined for the first time for AlOx passivation layer systems on industrially produced Si solar cells.
Hydrogen Donors in Anatase TiO2
Authors: Lavrov Eduard V. , Chaplygin Igor , Herklotz Frank , Melnikov Vladlen V.
Published: July 2021

Two hydrogen‐related donors in anatase —interstitial hydrogen () and hydrogen substituting for oxygen ()—are addressed by means of ab initio density functional theory and vibrational mode spectroscopy. First‐principles calculations and infrared (IR) absorption measurements reveal that forms an OH bond lying in the basal plane of the crystal characterized by a stretch local vibrational mode (LVM) with a frequency of 3412 . According to the calculations, the vibrational spectrum of the threefold‐coordinated hydrogen in includes two stretch LVMs with the frequencies of 1014 and 1294 . The theoretically predicted modes occur within the strong two‐phonon absorption band of , so the conclusions of theory cannot be verified by conventional IR absorption spectroscopy. In accordance with experimental findings, is shown to be unstable at room temperature, whereby formation of interstitial should be a preferential sink for hydrogen in defect‐free anatase. It is also found that of , , and , the latter is the most energetically favorable defect, which may account for the “hidden” hydrogen unavailable for the standard spectroscopic techniques.
Identifying treatment effect heterogeneity in dose‐finding trials using Bayesian hierarchical models
Authors: Thomas Marius , Bornkamp Björn , Ickstadt Katja
Published: July 2021

An important task in drug development is to identify patients, which respond better or worse to an experimental treatment. Identifying predictive covariates, which influence the treatment effect and can be used to define subgroups of patients, is a key aspect of this task. Analyses of treatment effect heterogeneity are however known to be challenging, since the number of possible covariates or subgroups is often large, while samples sizes in earlier phases of drug development are often small. In addition, distinguishing predictive covariates from prognostic covariates, which influence the response independent of the given treatment, can often be difficult. While many approaches for these types of problems have been proposed, most of them focus on the two‐arm clinical trial setting, where patients are given either the treatment or a control. In this article we consider parallel groups dose‐finding trials, in which patients are administered different doses of the same treatment. To investigate treatment effect heterogeneity in this setting we propose a Bayesian hierarchical dose–response model with covariate effects on dose–response parameters. We make use of shrinkage priors to prevent overfitting, which can easily occur, when the number of considered covariates is large and sample sizes are small. We compare several such priors in simulations and also investigate dependent modeling of prognostic and predictive effects to better distinguish these two types of effects. We illustrate the use of our proposed approach using a Phase II dose‐finding trial and show how it can be used to identify predictive covariates and subgroups of patients with increased treatment effects.
Ingenuity in packaging maintains the quality of fresh fruits and vegetables in mixed cargo exported by sea
Authors: Ikegaya Atsushi , Kosugi Toru , Toyoizumi Tomoyasu , Nagafuji Akihiko , Yamazaki Shigehiro , Arai Eiko
Published: July 2021

Global agricultural exports are expected to increase in the future. Sea transportation facilitates the carrying of an incomparably large amount of cargo for a much lower cost than by air freight. However, sea transportation takes much longer and the produce quality is inferior to that transported by air. Accordingly, it is necessary to develop technologies to create a more suitable environment for sea transportation. For this reason, a method was devised in which all fruit and vegetables packaged for domestic distribution are wrapped from the outside of the package as additional packaging with a more versatile film, and an actual export demonstration using this method was conducted in this study. Namely, two sets of 28 different kinds of fruits and vegetables were prepared, one that was wrapped in additional packaging and the other with ordinary packaging. These sets were then exported from Japan's Shimizu Port to Singapore as mixed cargo. Following transportation, instrumental analysis and sensory evaluation were performed to compare the quality of the additionally packaged produce with that of the ordinarily packaged produce. This additional packaging greatly reduced the loss of fresh weight of Chinese cabbage, lettuce, cabbage and Japanese white radish. Moreover, the additional packaging reduced the drying of ‘Shine Muscat’ grape stems. However, some produce such as peaches deteriorated in quality due to slight changes in gas concentration. For many items, additional packaging can be a low‐cost option for maintaining quality when exporting fruits and vegetables packaged for routine domestic distribution.
Can metal halides be electron donors in σ‐hole and π‐hole tetrel bonds? Cooperativity with an alkaline‐earth bond
Authors: Liu Na , Li Qingzhong
Published: July 2021

The tetrel bond in the complexes of TH3F‐MX2 (T = C‐Sn, M = Be and Mg; X = F, Cl, and Br) and F2CO‐MX2 has been explored and it is also called carbon bond for T = C. The results show that the halogen atom of metal halide can engage in a σ‐hole interaction with TH3F and a π‐hole interaction with F2CO. A linear carbon‐bonded complex is formed between CH3F and MX2, while a cyclic structure is obtained in other complexes, where a tetrel bond coexists with an alkaline‐earth bond. The carbon bond between CH3F and MX2 is weak with interaction energy less than 9 kJ/mol, depending on the nature of M and X atoms. The alkaline‐earth bond is stronger than the tetrel bond in the cyclic complexes and both interactions display positive cooperativity. The F2CO‐MX2 complex is more stable than TH3F‐MX2, mainly due to the stronger alkaline‐earth bond in the former. The π‐hole carbon bond is also stronger than the σ‐hole carbon bond when a metal halide acts as an electron donor. Such tetrel‐bonded structures involving metal halides have been found in the Cambridge Structural Database.
An irrigation system for noninvasively estimating intrarenal pressure during flexible ureteroscopy
Authors: Shu Xiongpeng , Hua Peng , Xie Le
Published: July 2021

Background

High intrarenal pressure (IRP) during flexible ureteroscopy (FURS) may lead to severe complications. Reported methods for measuring IRP are often inconvenient to use, expensive and involve instruments that occupy the narrow ureter.

Methods

We proposed an irrigation system, which can noninvasively estimate IRP based on the principle of fluid mechanics. To determine the feasibility of our system, we conducted irrigation experiments on a kidney phantom and a porcine kidney. The estimated IRPs were compared with the ground truth IRPs.

Results

When no surgical instrument was inserted into the flexible ureteroscope's working channel, our system can estimate IRP with high accuracy. When a surgical instrument was inserted, our system can approximately estimate the level of IRP.

Conclusions

Our proposed irrigation system can noninvasively estimate IRP, presenting a new thought for clinical practice. In future studies, in vivo experiments are needed to further validate and improve the system.
Robotic‐assisted completion cholecystectomy: A safe and effective approach to a challenging surgical scenario – A single center retrospective cohort study
Authors: Tschuor Christoph , Lyman William B. , Passeri Michael , Salibi Patrick N. , Baimas‐George Maria , Iannitti David A. , Baker Erin H. , Vrochides Dionisios , Martinie John B.
Published: July 2021

Background

Reoperation following a previous subtotal or aborted cholecystectomy presents a challenging surgical scenario that has traditionally required an open completion cholecystectomy. The aim of this study was to describe an institutional experience with a robotic‐assisted approach to completion cholecystectomy.

Methods

A database was retrospectively audited to identify all patients who underwent robotic‐assisted cholecystectomy performed by two hepatopancreatobiliary surgeons at a single centre from 2010 to 2019.

Results

Twenty six patients who underwent a robotic‐assisted completion cholecystectomy were identified. Median operative time was 142 min (48–247 min) with a blood loss of 50 cc (0–500 cc). Minor complications (Clavien–Dindo ≤ II 90 days) occurred in three patients (11.5%) with no major complication or mortality reported. Median hospital length of stay was 1 day (0–6 days) with one patient readmitted.

Conclusion

This study represents to our knowledge the largest series of robotic‐assisted completion cholecystectomies to date. The robotic approach appears to be a safe and effective procedure associated with a low morbidity and high success rate.
Nonlinear learning‐based model predictive control supporting state and input dependent model uncertainty estimates
Authors: Wabersich Kim P. , Zeilinger Melanie N.
Published: July 2021

While model predictive control (MPC) methods have proven their efficacy when applied to systems with safety specifications and physical limitations, their performance heavily relies on an accurate prediction model. As a consequence, a significant effort in the design of MPC controllers is dedicated to the modeling part and often requires advanced physical expertise. In order to facilitate the controller design, we present an MPC scheme supporting nonlinear learning‐based prediction models, that is, data‐driven models with probabilistic parameter uncertainties. A tube‐based MPC formulation in combination with an additional implicit state and input constraint forces the closed‐loop system to be operated in domains of sufficient model confidence, thereby ensuring asymptotic stability and constraint satisfaction at a prespecified level of probability. Furthermore, by relying on tube‐based MPC concepts, the proposed learning‐based MPC formulation offers a general framework for addressing different problem classes, such as economic MPC, while providing a general interface to probabilistic prediction models based, for example, on Bayesian regression or Gaussian processes. A design procedure is proposed for approximately linear systems and the efficiency of the method is illustrated using numerical examples.
Split application of nutrients improve growth and yield of Huanglongbing‐affected citrus trees
Authors: Atta Alisheikh A. , Morgan Kelly T. , Mahmoud Kamal A.
Published: July 2021

Citrus production in Florida declined steadily because of Huanglongbing (i.e., HLB, citrus greening) caused by the bacteria Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus. The objectives of the study were to determine whether leaf tissue nutrient concentration, tree growth, fruit yield, and juice content were improved with split applications of essential nutrients on selected rootstocks on Florida sandy soils. The treatments were arranged in a split‐split plot design where the nitrogen (N) was fertigated in 20 splits and the Ca + Mg nutrients were also split three times coinciding with the spring, summer, and late summer flush seasons on trees budded on two rootstocks of ‘Hamlin’ citrus trees [Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck]. A significant difference in leaf N, calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg) concentration were detected between rootstocks when trees received the highest N rate and remained within the optimum range of critical nutrition concentration even with the lowest N rate, suggesting a lower N requirement with split N applications. Yet, leaf Mg concentration remained in the minimum range implying a low soil Mg pool. For Ca, Mg, and Ca + Mg treatments, we recorded 1.41×, 1.23×, and 1.23× and 1.22×, 1.26×, and 1.30× greater tree canopy volumes (TCV) on Cleopatra and Swingle rootstocks, respectively, as compared with control trees. Significantly greater fruit yield was detected for trees budded on Cleopatra rootstocks that received either Ca or Ca + Mg treated trees with 59.7 and 63.0 kg tree–1 as compared with the control trees (36.9 kg tree–1), respectively. A magnitude of 1.14× more average fruit weight than control trees was noted for trees budded on Swingle rootstock in response to Mg nutrition. Therefore, the application of essential nutrients has a positive impact to ameliorate tree growth and nutrient deficiency associated with Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus‐induced problems, thereby improving tree growth and yield.
Evidence of Critical Tunnelling Width in Ensuring Spin Polarized Asymmetric Negative Differential Resistance Feature in Two‐Dimensional g‐C4N3‐graphene‐g‐C4N3
Authors: Bhowmick Rinki , Chattopadhyaya Mausumi , Sen Sabyasachi
Published: July 2021

We report herein existence of a critical tunnelling width beyond which graphitic tunnelling nanostructures exhibit asymmetric spin polarized negative differential resistance feature. Our theoretical foray quite clearly establishes that even with a simple two‐dimensional tunnelling nanostructure created by an assembly of ferromagnetic graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C4N3) electrodes separated by insulating graphene sheet of variable lengths, there exists a critical tunnelling width at which the system switches from symmetric to asymmetric negative differential resistance feature. Presence of robust spin filer efficiency (100 %) over a wide range of bias variation (−1.0 to +1.0 V) added with negative differential resistance action makes the device with shorter tunnelling width of 22.36 Å and 31. 96 Å potentially useful as multifunctional spintronic device. However, at the critical tunnelling width of 36.69 Å and beyond the forward bias negative differential resistance features completely switches off and same is observed only in reverse bias. This switching action certainly opens up the prospect of logic gates operation in quantum circuits. Results obtained has been explained through transmission spectra, transmission pathways and molecular projected self‐consistent Hamiltonian states analysis. Emergence of asymmetric I−V curve beyond critical tunnelling width has been explained by examining differences in spin injection coefficients.
Hydrophobized Short Peptide Amphiphile Functionalized Gold Nanoparticles as Antibacterial Biomaterials
Authors: Kesharwani Khushboo , Singh Ramesh , Khan Mohd Jahir , Vinayak Vandana , Joshi Khashti Ballabh
Published: July 2021

In search of new antibacterial agents and therapeutic strategies, during this antibiotic resistance crises, we developed a facile and effective antibacterial nanomaterial by using di‐phenylalanine based hydrophobized short peptide amphiphile (HsPA) and AuNPs. Such peptide amphiphile functionalised nanoparticles can provide a universal platform for medicinal applications owing to their unique physicochemical properties. The nanostructures of sPA and HsPA‐AuNPs hybrids were confirmed by spectroscopic and microscopy techniques. The antibacterial activity of these nanostructures were tested against clinically relevant bacteria such as Escherichia coli and found satisfactory. The HsPA acted as a model drug (Au(III) and AuNPs) delivery agent. Therefore such stimuli responsive, HsPA‐AuNPs system may open new therapeutic paradigms for emerging the theranostics.
The “butterfly effect” in strategic human capital: Mitigating the endogeneity concern about the relationship between turnover and performance
Authors: Stern Ithai , Deng Xin , Chen Guoli , Gao Huasheng
Published: July 2021

Research Summary

Prior literature on the relationship between the departure of strategic human capital (SHC) and firm performance is equivocal. One source of this ambiguity is the potential endogeneity: Is it the SHC departure that leads to poor firm performance, or is it poor firm performance leading to the SHC departure? We respond to repeated calls to address this issue by using the Fukushima nuclear accident in Japan as an exogenous event which triggered a “butterfly effect” that influenced the departure decisions of individuals working for firms near a nuclear plant in the United States but not the firms' performance. Our results provide strong evidence that the departure of SHC undermines firm performance, and that the effect is amplified by the strength of employee–firm relationships.

Managerial Summary

This study shows that Japan's Fukushima nuclear accident prompted an increase in the departure of strategic human capital (SHC) working in firms in close proximity to nuclear plants in the United States. It provides strong empirical evidence that the departure of SHC hurts firm performance and that firms which have a strong relationship with their employees suffer more. These findings suggest a potential downside to cultivating such relationships and highlight the ripple effects of unexpected external events on firm performance.
Stability Study of Silicon Heterojunction Solar Cells Fabricated with Gallium‐ and Boron‐Doped Silicon Wafers
Authors: Vicari Stefani Bruno , Kim Moonyong , Wright Matthew , Soeriyadi Anastasia , Andronikov Dmitriy , Nyapshaev Ilya , Abolmasov Sergey , Emtsev Konstantin , Abramov Alexey , Hallam Brett
Published: July 2021

Herein, a comparison of industrial silicon heterojunction (SHJ) solar cells formed using p‐type (boron‐ or gallium‐doped) Czochralski‐grown silicon (Cz‐Si) wafers is provided. Standard n‐type SHJ solar cells are also fabricated as a reference. Boron‐doped SHJ solar cells are heavily susceptible to boron–oxygen light‐induced degradation (BO‐LID), with an open‐circuit voltage (VOC) reduction of 100 mV in some cells with starting VOC of >720 mV. While an advanced hydrogenation process (AHP) is sufficient to completely stabilize BO‐LID in some cells, resulting in stable VOC of 724 mV, the impact in reducing BO‐LID is variable. This suggests that an AHP alone may not be a reliable method of reducing BO‐LID in industrial SHJ solar cells. In contrast, SHJ solar cells formed using gallium‐doped wafers exhibit VOC > 730 mV and show no degradation during light‐soaking. Yet, the same AHP treatment for gallium‐doped SHJ cells results in a 0.4%abs increase in the conversion efficiency to 22.6% (VOC of 734 mV). The conversion efficiency of the gallium‐doped SHJ solar cells is still lower than the n‐type reference cells, which is largely due to a reduced fill factor (FF). Further work is required to overcome this FF limitation to facilitate high‐efficiency gallium‐doped SHJ solar cells.
Self‐Assembly of 2D Nanosheets into 1D Nanostructures for Sensing NO2
Authors: Zha Jiajia , Yuan Zhen , Zhou Zhan , Li Yang , Zhao Jiangqi , Zeng Zhiyuan , Zhen Liang , Tai Huiling , Tan Chaoliang , Zhang Hua
Published: July 2021

Ultrathin 2D nanosheets are one of the appealing building blocks for constructing self‐assembled nanostructures. Herein, a facile, fast, and general solvent‐mediated route for the high‐yield and large‐scale self‐assembly of ultrathin 2D nanosheets into 1D nanofibers and nanorings is reported. Solution‐dispersed graphene oxide (GO), MoS2, TiS2, and TaS2 nanofibers with lengths of several tens of micrometers and diameters of 20–50 nm are formed via the self‐assembly of their corresponding single‐layer nanosheets by simply vibrating their tetrahydrofuran suspensions under vortex for 1 min at room temperature. Interestingly, by simply changing the solvent from tetrahydrofuran to acetone, nanorings with diameters of 200–500 nm can be obtained via a similar process. As a proof‐of‐concept application, the reduced GO (rGO) nanofibers obtained by thermal reduction of the GO nanofibers are used as the channel material to fabricate electronic gas sensor, showing good sensitivity (with a detection limit of ≈75 ppb) and selectivity toward NO2. The simple assembly strategy can be used to assemble other ultrathin 2D nanomaterials into 1D nanostructures for various promising applications.
Test Quality
Authors: Wess Raphael , Klock Heiner , Siller Hans-Stefan , Greefrath Gilbert
Published: July 2021

General standards in the form of quality criteria can be used in order to assess the quality of an instrument and/or to construct a high-quality test. Three main indicators, the so-called “core quality criteria,” have emerged: objectivity, reliability and validity (e.g. Bühner, 2011; Ebel & Frisbie, 1991; Linn, 2011; Miller, Linn & Grolund, 2009; Rost, 2004). These primary and selected secondary quality criteria (fairness and usability) are examined in more detail in the following using a data set of 349 pre-service teachers for secondary education at several German universities.
Discussion
Authors: Wess Raphael , Klock Heiner , Siller Hans-Stefan , Greefrath Gilbert
Published: July 2021

The results presented in the preceding sections were primarily aimed at developing a test on professional competence of pre-service teachers specifically for teaching mathematical modelling. In a first step, the theoretical foundations were laid and, based on this, the structure of professional competence used for teaching mathematical modelling was explained. Subsequently, the relevant constructs were operationalised and empirically checked. The results of the analyses presented regarding the test quality are summarised below and are classified in the current state of research to discuss possible explanations for the observed results on this basis. In order to further define the scope of the results, key limits of the test instrument in relation to the present study will be addressed. The book concludes with an outlook, in which possible implications are derived from this study for didactic research as well as for university teacher education.
BPS Wilson loop in $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 2 superconformal SU(N) “orientifold” gauge theory and weak-strong coupling interpolation
Authors: Beccaria M. , Dunne G. V. , Tseytlin A. A.
Published: July 2021

Abstract

We consider the expectation value $$ \left\langle \mathcal{W}\right\rangle $$

W

of the circular BPS Wilson loop in $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 superconformal SU(N) gauge theory containing a vector multiplet coupled to two hypermultiplets in rank-2 symmetric and antisymmetric representations. This theory admits a regular large N expansion, is planar-equivalent to $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 SYM theory and is expected to be dual to a certain orbifold/orientifold projection of AdS5× S5 superstring theory. On the string theory side $$ \left\langle \mathcal{W}\right\rangle $$

W

is represented by the path integral expanded near the same AdS2 minimal surface as in the maximally supersymmetric case. Following the string theory argument in [5], we suggest that as in the $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 SYM case and in the $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 SU(N) × SU(N) superconformal quiver theory discussed in [19], the coefficient of the leading non-planar 1/N2 correction in $$ \left\langle \mathcal{W}\right\rangle $$

W

should have the universal λ3/2 scaling at large ’t Hooft coupling. We confirm this prediction by starting with the localization matrix model representation for $$ \left\langle \mathcal{W}\right\rangle $$

W

. We complement the analytic derivation of the λ3/2 scaling by a numerical high-precision resummation and extrapolation of the weak-coupling expansion using conformal mapping improved Padé analysis.
On the Problem of Choosing Subgroups of Clifford Algebras for Applications in Fundamental Physics
Authors: Wilson Robert Arnott
Published: July 2021

Clifford algebras are used for constructing spin groups, and are therefore of particular importance in the theory of quantum mechanics. An algebraist’s perspective on the many subgroups and subalgebras of Clifford algebras may suggest ways in which they might be applied more widely to describe the fundamental properties of matter. I do not claim to build a physical theory on top of the fundamental algebra, and my suggestions for possible physical interpretations are indicative only, and may not work. Nevertheless, both the existence of three generations of fermions and the symmetry-breaking of the weak interaction seem to emerge naturally from an extension of the Dirac algebra from complex numbers to quaternions.
Modified autologous fascial sling technique (‘sling on a string’) for stress incontinence
Authors: Asfour Victoria , Nikolopoulos Kostis I. , Digesu Giuseppe Alessandro , Emery Simon , Khan Zainab
Published: July 2021

Introduction and hypothesis

Describe the modified autologous fascial sling procedure that has been employed in the largest randomized controlled trial comparing autologous slings, mesh slings and xenografts.

Methods

The video aims to demonstrate the modified Aldridge technique. The surgical procedure is demonstrated. A 6-cm suprapubic incision is made to harvest the rectus sheath fascia. Loop-0-PDS sutures are attached on either end of the sling. A marking suture is placed in the middle of the graft to facilitate tension-free adjustment. A vaginal incision is made at the mid-urethra. Paraurethral dissection is performed to create a tunnel for the fascial graft to be passed through (in the same manner as with transvaginal mesh slings). The ends of the graft PDS sutures are passed through the paraurethral tunnel. One hand is placed abdominally below the rectus muscles to palpate the pelvic floor from above. The graft sutures are passed through the pelvic floor with control on either side. A cystoscopy is performed to check the bladder integrity. The graft placement is adjusted to be tenson-free. The incisions are closed. The short- and long-term outcomes of this technique have been investigated and published.

Results

The cure rates and complication rates were no different in the mesh and autologous slings. The xenograft had inferior outcomes.

Conclusion

Autologous fascial slings can be used in the surgical management of urodynamic stress incontinence. The technique demonstrated in this video is the technique employed in the largest randomized controlled trial investigating the efficacy of autologous fascial slings to xenografts and tapes.
Stenotrophomonas strain CPCC 101271, an intestinal lifespan-prolonging bacterium for Caenorhabditis elegans that assists in host resistance to “Bacillus nematocida” colonization
Authors: Han Rui , Wang Yu , Deng Yang , Zhang Yuqin , Zhang Lin , Niu Qiuhong
Published: July 2021

The soil-dwelling, opportunistic pathogenic bacterium "Bacillus nematocida" B16 exhibits strong killing activities against a variety of pathogenic nematodes via a “Trojan horse” mechanism that can kill worm species like Caenorhabditis elegans. The bacterial strain CPCC 101271 was previously isolated from the intestines of C. elegans that were recovered from natural habitats and can serve as a probiotic for C. elegans, while also assisting in resistance to infection by the pathogenic strain B16. In this study, the lifespan of C. elegans fed with strain CPCC 101271 cells was extended by approximately 40% compared with that of worms fed with Escherichia coli OP50 cells. In addition, the colonization of C. elegans by the pathogenic bacterium "B. nematocida" B16 was inhibited when pre-fed with strain CPCC 101271. Metagenomic sequence analysis of intestinal microbiota of C. elegans fed with strain CPCC 101271 and infected with B16 revealed that pre-feeding worms with CPCC 101271 improved the diversity of the intestinal bacteria. Moreover, community structure significantly varied in coordination with Stenotrophomonas spp. and Bacillus spp. abundances when competition between strains CPCC 101271 and B16 was evaluated. In conclusion, the nematode microbiota strain CPCC 101271 assisted in its host resistance to colonization by the pathogen "Bacillus nematocida" and can also promote life span-prolongation in C. elegans. These results underscore that understanding the interactions between C. elegans microbiota and pathogens can provide new insights into achieving effective biological control of agricultural pests.
Dimerization in Quantum Spin Chains with O(n) Symmetry
Authors: Björnberg Jakob E. , Mühlbacher Peter , Nachtergaele Bruno , Ueltschi Daniel
Published: July 2021

We consider quantum spins with $$S\ge 1$$

S
≥
1

, and two-body interactions with $$O(2S+1)$$

O
(
2
S
+
1
)

symmetry. We discuss the ground state phase diagram of the one-dimensional system. We give a rigorous proof of dimerization for an open region of the phase diagram, for S sufficiently large. We also prove the existence of a gap for excitations.
Depression and Osteoporosis: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: He Bin , Lyu Qiong , Yin Lifeng , Zhang Muzi , Quan Zhengxue , Ou Yunsheng
Published: July 2021

Observational studies suggest a link between depression and osteoporosis, but these may be subject to confounding and reverse causality. In this two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis, we included the large meta-analysis of genome-wide association studies for depression among 807,553 individuals (246,363 cases and 561,190 controls) of European descent, the large meta-analysis to identify genetic variants associated with femoral neck bone mineral density (FN-BMD), forearm BMD (FA-BMD) and lumbar spine BMD (LS-BMD) among 53,236 individuals of European ancestry, and the GWAS summary data of heel BMD (HE-BMD) and fracture among 426,824 individuals of European ancestry. The results revealed that genetic predisposition towards depression showed no causal effect on FA-BMD (beta-estimate: 0.091, 95% confidence interval [CI] − 0.088 to 0.269, SE:0.091, P value = 0.320), FN-BMD (beta-estimate: 0.066, 95% CI − 0.016 to 0.148, SE:0.042, P value = 0.113), LS-BMD (beta-estimate: 0.074, 95% CI − 0.029 to 0.177, SE:0.052, P value = 0.159), HE-BMD (beta-estimate: 0.009, 95% CI − 0.043 to 0.061, SE:0.027, P value = 0.727), or fracture (beta-estimate: 0.008, 95% CI − 0.071 to 0.087, SE:0.041, P value = 0.844). These results were also confirmed by multiple sensitivity analyses. Contrary to the findings of observational studies, our results do not reveal a causal role of depression in osteoporosis or fracture.
Proximal femoral reconstruction with modular megaprostheses in non-oncological patients
Authors: Döring Kevin , Vertesich Klemens , Martelanz Luca , Staats Kevin , Böhler Christoph , Hipfl Christian , Windhager Reinhard , Puchner Stephan
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Multiple revision hip arthroplasties and critical trauma might cause severe bone loss that requires proximal femoral replacement (PFR). The aim of this retrospective study was to analyse complication- and revision-free survivals of patients who received modular megaprostheses in an attempt to reconstruct massive non-neoplastic bone defects of the proximal femur.

Questions/purposes

(1) What were general complication rates and revision-free survivals following PFR? (2) What is the incidence of complication specific survivals? (3) What were risk factors leading to a diminished PFR survival?

Materials and methods

Twenty-eight patients with sufficient follow-up after receiving a modular proximal femoral megaprosthesis were identified. The indications for PFR included prosthetic joint infection (PJI), periprosthetic fracture, aseptic loosening, non-union and critical femoral fracture. Complications were grouped according to the ISOLS-classification of segmental endoprosthetic failure by Henderson et al.

Results

Overall, the complication-free survival was 64.3% at one year, 43.2% at five years and 38.4% at ten years, with 16 patients (57%) suffering at least one complication. Complications were dislocation in eight patients (29%), PJI in 6 patients (21%), periprosthetic fracture in five patients (18%), and aseptic loosening in six patients (21%). Prosthesis stem cementation showed a lower risk for revision in a cox proportional hazard model (95% CI 0.04–0.93, HR 0.2, p = 0.04).

Conclusion

PFR with modular megaprostheses represents a viable last resort treatment with high complication rates for patients with severe proximal femoral bone loss due to failed arthroplasty or critical fractures. In revision arthroplasty settings, PFR cementation should be advocated in cases of impaired bone quality.
Signal intensity ratio of draining vein on silent MR angiography as an indicator of high-flow arteriovenous shunt in brain arteriovenous malformation
Authors: Wu Chun-Xue , Zang Zhen-Xiang , Hong Tao , Dong Meng-Qi , Shan Yi , Zhao Zhi-Lian , Hou Cheng-Bei , Lu Jie
Published: July 2021

Objectives

To evaluate whether the signal intensity ratio (rSI) of the draining vein on silent MR angiography is correlated with arteriovenous (A–V) transit time on digital subtraction angiography (DSA), thereby identifying high-flow A–V shunt in brain arteriovenous malformation (BAVM), and to analyze whether the rSI and the characteristic of draining veins on silent MRA are associated with hemorrhage presentation.

Methods

Eighty-one draining veins of 46 participants with BAVM (mean age 33.2 ± 16.9 years) who underwent silent MRA and DSA were evaluated retrospectively. The correlation between the rSI of the draining vein on silent MRA and A–V transit time on DSA was examined. The AUC-ROC was obtained to evaluate the performance of the rSI in determining the presence of high-flow A–V shunt. The characteristics of draining veins with the maximum rSI (rSImax) were further compared between the hemorrhagic and non-hemorrhagic untreated BAVM.

Results

The rSI of each draining vein on silent MRA was significantly correlated with A–V transit time from DSA (r = −0.81, p < .001). The AUC-ROC was 0.89 for using the rSI to determine the presence of high-flow A–V shunt. A cut-off rSI value of 1.09 yielded a sensitivity of 82.4% and a specificity of 82.8%. The draining vein with rSImax and no ectasia was significantly more observed in the hemorrhagic group (p = 0.045).

Conclusions

The rSI of the draining vein on silent MRA is significantly correlated with A–V transit time on DSA, and it can be used as an indicator of high-flow A–V shunt in BAVM.

Key Points

• The signal intensity ratio (rSI) of the draining vein on silent MRA significantly correlated with arteriovenous (A–V) transit time of brain arteriovenous malformation (BAVM) on digital subtraction angiography (DSA).

• The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was 0.89 for using the rSI of draining veins to determine high-flow A–V shunt.

• Draining veins with maximum rSI and no ectasia were significantly more observed in the hemorrhagic group of BAVM (p = 0.045).
Metagenomics: a path to understanding the gut microbiome
Authors: Yen Sandi , Johnson Jethro S.
Published: July 2021

The gut microbiome is a major determinant of host health, yet it is only in the last 2 decades that the advent of next-generation sequencing has enabled it to be studied at a genomic level. Shotgun sequencing is beginning to provide insight into the prokaryotic as well as eukaryotic and viral components of the gut community, revealing not just their taxonomy, but also the functions encoded by their collective metagenome. This revolution in understanding is being driven by continued development of sequencing technologies and in consequence necessitates reciprocal development of computational approaches that can adapt to the evolving nature of sequence datasets. In this review, we provide an overview of current bioinformatic strategies for handling metagenomic sequence data and discuss their strengths and limitations. We then go on to discuss key technological developments that have the potential to once again revolutionise the way we are able to view and hence understand the microbiome.
Hidden structural heterogeneity enhances marine hotspots’ biodiversity
Authors: Kazanidis Georgios , Henry Lea-Anne , Roberts J. Murray
Published: July 2021

Studies in terrestrial and shallow-water ecosystems have unravelled the key role of interspecific interactions in enhancing biodiversity, but important knowledge gaps persist for the deep sea. Cold-water coral reefs are hotspots of biodiversity, but the role of interspecific interactions and “habitat cascades” (i.e. positive effects on focal organisms mediated by biogenic habitat formation) in shaping their biodiversity is unknown. Associations between macrofaunal hosts and epifauna were examined in 47 stations at the Mingulay Reef Complex (northeast Atlantic). In total, 101 (group level) and 340 (species level) unique types of facultative associations formed by 43 hosts and 39 epifaunal species were found. Molluscs and empty polychaete tubes had higher values for the type and number of host-epifaunal associations, the Shannon–Wiener (H) and Margalef (d) indices of the epifauna than the rest of the taxonomic groups (p < 0.05). Hosts’ body size, orientation, surface smoothness, and growth form explained a significant amount of variability (32.96%) in epifauna community composition. Epifaunal species richness (S), H and d were 27.4 (± 2.2%), 56.2 (± 2.8%) and 39.9 (± 2.3%) of the respective values for the total sessile communities living on coral framework. This is intriguing as coral framework is orders of magnitude larger than the size of macrofaunal hosts. It is suggested that bivalves, tunicates and empty polychaete tubes increase habitat heterogeneity and enhance biodiversity through “habitat cascades”, in a similar way that epiphytes do in tropical rainforests. Most macrofaunal habitat suppliers in the studied cold-water coral reef are calcified species and likely susceptible to ocean acidification. This indicates that the impacts of climate change on the total biodiversity, structure and health of cold-water coral reefs may potentially be more severe than previously thought.
Image recoloring for color vision deficiency compensation: a survey
Authors: Zhu Zhenyang , Mao Xiaoyang
Published: July 2021

People with color vision deficiency (CVD) have a reduced capability to discriminate different colors. This impairment can cause inconveniences in the individuals’ daily lives and may even expose them to dangerous situations, such as failing to read traffic signals. CVD affects approximately 200 million people worldwide. In order to compensate for CVD, a significant number of image recoloring studies have been proposed. In this survey, we briefly review the representative existing recoloring methods and categorize them according to their methodological characteristics. Concurrently, we summarize the evaluation metrics, both subjective and quantitative, introduced in the existing studies and compare the state-of-the-art studies using the experimental evaluation results with the quantitative metrics.
COVID-19-Pandemie-bedingte Belastungen und SARS-CoV-2-Prävalenz in Pflegeeinrichtungen
Authors: Perkhofer Lukas , Grünke Peter , Gashi-Ymeri Edonjeta , Grünke Teresa , Kroschel Joris , Michel Detlef , Pensel Elke , Rost Andreas , Denkinger Michael , Dallmeier Dhayana , Seufferlein Thomas
Published: July 2021

Hintergrund

Pflegeeinrichtungen sind Belastungen der COVID-19-Pandemie gegenüber besonders exponiert, sowohl in personellen wie strukturellen Bereichen.

Ziel der Arbeit

Prospektive Querschnittsstudie zum punktuellen Infektionsgeschehen, zu psychosozialen Belastungen und zum Umgang der Einrichtungen mit der COVID-19-Pandemie.

Material und Methoden

Systematische Datenerhebung zwischen dem 27.07.2020 und dem 25.08.2020 in 7 Pflegeeinrichtungen in Baden-Württemberg. Dies beinhaltete für Bewohner/Mitarbeiter einen Fragebogen, eine SARS-CoV-2-PCR und Antikörpertestung. Die Einrichtungen wurden auf Umgang und Präventionsmaßnahmen befragt.

Ergebnisse

Von insgesamt 829 SARS-CoV-2-PCR-Tests waren 100 % negativ. 2 Probanden hatten SARS-CoV-2-Antikörper, allerdings ohne positive Anamnese. Keiner der Probanden mit positiver PCR in der Anamnese (n = 6) hatte nachweisbare Antikörper. Mitarbeiter hatten Angst, Mitmenschen, v. a. Heimbewohner, (54,4 %) anzustecken, weniger sich selbst (27,2 %). Als pandemieassoziierte Belastungen wurden in 17,1 % Erschöpfung, 16 % finanzielle Ängste und 13,1 % Schlafstörungen angegeben. Die Bewältigungsstrategien umfassten einen moderaten Anstieg schädlichen Konsumverhaltens (+3,3 % Alkohol, +4,3 % Nikotin). Wesentlich kritischer war dies bei unter 35-Jährigen (+13 % Alkohol, +12,7 % Nikotin). Frauen gaben eine Zunahme des Medikamentengebrauchs um 2,4 % an. 49,8 % der Befragten reduzierten ihre Sozialkontakte, 76,8 % veränderten ihr Hygieneverhalten. Die Einrichtungen waren eingeschränkt auf die COVID-19-Pandemie vorbereitet.

Diskussion

Trotz der niedrigen Punktprävalenz zum Zeitpunkt der Erhebung belastete die COVID-19-Pandemie die Pflegeeinrichtungen in vielfachen Aspekten. Aus den entstandenen Belastungen bei Mitarbeitern müssen Bewältigungs- und Präventionskonzepte resultieren.
Einfluss einer tiefen Implantation auf Reizleitungsstörungen nach Transkatheter-Aortenklappenimplantation
Authors: Saad Mohammed , Klaus Yannic , Buhse Paul , Puehler Thomas , Lutter Georg , Seoudy Hatim , Frank Derk
Published: July 2021

Hintergrund

Reizleitungsstörungen sind häufige Komplikationen der Transkatheter-Aortenklappenimplantation (TAVI). Ein Einflussfaktor ist die bisher nicht standardisiert bestimmte Implantationstiefe.

Fragestellung

Gibt es Unterschiede zwischen den anatomischen Regionen bei tiefer Implantation hinsichtlich neuer Reizleitungsstörungen und Überleben?

Material und Methoden

Retrospektive Kohortenanalyse, 420 Patienten mit transfemoraler TAVI mit Klappenprothesen der neuen Generation, davon 352 Patienten ohne vorbestehenden Schrittmacher für Analysen zur neuen Schrittmacherimplantation. Auswertung der fluoroskopisch gemessenen Implantationstiefen an der non- (NCC) und der links-koronaren Tasche (LCC) sowie der aus Patientenakten ersichtlichen Verläufe. Die tiefe Implantation definierte sich als tiefes Quartil der Implantationstiefe der jeweiligen Prothese. Das Überleben ergab sich aus einem 2‑jährigen Follow-up.

Ergebnisse und Diskussion

Die tiefe Implantation war nur am NCC mit erhöhter Schrittmacherimplantationsrate assoziiert (p = 0,013), am LCC mit dem häufigeren Auftreten eines permanenten Linksschenkelblocks (p = 0,014). Neue oder vorbestehende Schrittmacherimplantationen hatten keinen Einfluss auf das 2‑jährige Überleben. Eine tiefe Implantation war nicht mit einer schlechteren Überlebensprognose assoziiert. Die Implantationstiefe könnte bezüglich der Bedeutung für neue Schrittmacherimplantationen standardisiert am NCC gemessen werden. In der Eingriffsplanung könnte eine Abschätzung der Implantationstiefe am NCC oder LCC relevant für den Verlauf nach TAVI sein. Die Schrittmacherimplantation kann wie auch die tiefe Implantation am LCC oder NCC, bei Abwesenheit von mittel- bis hochgradigen paravalvulären Leckagen, als prognostisch sicher gewertet werden.
Imageless robotic handpiece-assisted total knee arthroplasty: a learning curve analysis of surgical time and alignment accuracy
Authors: Savov Peter , Tuecking Lars-Rene , Windhagen Henning , Ehmig Jonathan , Ettinger Max
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Robotic-assisted surgery techniques are increasing in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). One crucial point is the prolonged time of surgery. The primary objective of this study was to determine the learning curve necessary to minimize the time of surgery. The secondary objective was to evaluate the accuracy of the implant alignment when using an imageless robotic system for TKA.

Materials and methods

In a case–control study, the first 70 consecutive robotic-assisted TKA procedures performed by a single senior surgeon were analyzed with regard to surgery time and implant alignment by comparing the intraoperative plan with the postoperative alignment. The evaluation of the learning curve with respect to surgery time was conducted using cumulative summation (CUSUM) analysis. The joint line height was measured with a new technique. Surgery time and joint line reconstruction were compared to 70 consecutive conventional TKA procedures.

Results

The learning curve for robotic TKA was completed after 11 cases. The learning curve did not influence the accuracy of joint line obliquity, joint line height, or limb alignment. The intraoperative plan designed for the robotic system was precisely implemented. The mean skin-to-skin time in the robotic group after the learning curve was completed did not differ from that in the manual group. A significant positive correlation was observed between the preoperative hip–knee–ankle angle and the postoperative distalization of the joint line in the robotic-assisted TKA group.

Conclusion

After completing the initial learning curve of 11 cases, the surgery time required to perform imageless robotic handpiece-assisted TKA was similar to that for the conventional technique. However, no learning curve was observed for the implant positioning when using the imageless robotic system. The implementation of the intraoperative plan was accurate up to < 2°. The precision of the system allows the implementation of different joint balancing approaches between valgus and varus morphotypes.