bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relationships between the total volumes of OARs and the doses they received in the case of EBRT treatment of the prostate cancer
Authors: Osmić H , Đedović E , Emić M
Published: March 2021

In the case of the external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) treatment of the prostate cancer there exist two categories of toxicity effects: genito-urinary and gastro-intestinal. The main objective of this work is to investigate the relationships between the total volumes of organs at risk (OARs) and the doses they received in the case of the EBRT treatment of prostate cancer. Knowing these relationships it could be possible to reduce the dose contributions to the OARs by increasing or decreasing their volumes by the intake of an amount of a fluid or applying a special diet during the EBRT treatment and, consequently, in such a way to decrease the possibility of appearing of toxicity effects. Through this work the results obtained by analysis of the data collected from dose volume histograms of 30 patients have been presented. The correlations between the doses received by bladder and rectum and theirs volumes have been investigated. We found the strong significant Pearson’s negative correlations, obtained in the case of bladder between D
mean and the volume ratios V/V
PTV (r = -0.729 and r = -0.707, p < 0.01) as well as between V
65 and V/V
PTV (r = -0.627 and r = -0.605, p < 0.05). In the case of rectum only significant positive Spearman’s correlation was found between D
max and V (r = 0.524, p < 0.05). The obtained results impose the necessity for monitoring and applying a special and planned diet, as a part of the whole EBRT treatment of prostate cancer in order to ensure the reproducible conditions for OARs.
The use of energy routers to improve reliability of power supply to non-traction consumers
Authors: Bulatov Yu N , Kryukov A V , Kryukov A E , Cherepanov A V
Published: March 2021

The purpose of the studies presented in the article was to determine the effectiveness of the use of energy routers (ER) in railway power supply systems to increase the uninterrupted power supply to non-traction consumers, reduce unbalance and nonsinusoidality, and reduce voltage dips in emergency modes. The research was carried out by means of computer modeling using the Matlab software system based on the developed models of power supply systems (PSS) equipped with ER with energy storage devices. The results obtained show that in standard circuits of PSS for linear consumers with short circuits in the supply network, voltage dips occur, the depth of which reaches 100%. The use of an ER and an energy storage device connected to DC buses allows maintaining voltage at consumer clamps near the nominal value in case of short circuits in the 10 kV feed line and 25 kV overhead contact system. The ER significantly limits the recharge of the short circuit location from the power storage. In addition, on the basis of the ER it is possible to provide the normative quality of electricity considering voltage deviations, asymmetry and harmonic distortions on the 0.4 kV buses of the substation that feeds non-traction consumers.
Influence of the exhaust gas recirculation on formation of NOx in the hydrogen engine working on the leaked mixture (Experiment and 3D modeling)
Authors: Kavtaradze R Z , Natriashvili T M , Glonti M G , Sun Baigang , Wang Yichun , Rongrong Cheng , Citian Chang
Published: March 2021

Summary. Nitric oxides are the only components from the harmful ones limited by the legislation found in the exhaust gases of the hydrogen engine. For the purpose of their minimization and prevention of the anomaly burning processes as well (detonation combustion, early ignition, back fire), the use of the leaked hydrogen-air mixture is offered. The influence of the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) on the intra-cylindric processes, namely on formation of nitric oxides in the hydrogen engine is studied for the first time experimentally and with the help of the mathematical model based on the three-dimensional non-stationary equations of type of Navier-Stokes. The results obtained for the wide ranges of variation of the advance angle of ignition, excess air ratio and rate of EGR confirm that at successful combination of these controllable parameters the problem of minimization of nitric oxides exhausted by the hydrogen engine is removed.
Lightweight concrete based on foam glass gravel: composition, structure and properties
Authors: Sopegin G V
Published: March 2021

The article discusses the research results, the purpose of which is to provide the possibility of increasing the physical and mechanical as well as heat-shielding properties of lightweight cement concrete based on foam-glass gravel. The authors also investigated the possibility of reducing the alkali-silica reaction occurring in such concretes. To evaluate the course of the alkali-silica reaction, a method is used based on the study of the microstructure of lightweight concrete samples. The article also assesses the physical and mechanical as well as thermal engineering properties of lightweight concrete based on foam-glass gravel. The determination of properties is carried out according to standard methods. Analysis of the microstructure lightweight concrete samples allowed to fix flowing alkali-silica reaction. To reduce the alkali-silicate interaction, the authors propose introducing into the concrete composition a complex additive consisting of a siliceous modifier and a plasticizing component. The developed compositions of lightweight concrete, belonging to the class of structural and thermal insulation, have a compressive strength of 6.84-9.05 MPa, a density mark grade of D500-D1500 and a thermal conductivity of 0.218-0.282 W/(m°C).
Influence of dynamic loads in joints on dimensional stability
Authors: Yamnikov A S , Malikov A A , Kashmin O S , Troitsky I D
Published: March 2021

In small arms manufacturing the lock dimensional chain final link precision is secured with manual file fitting and removing the tolerance intentionally left on the recoil lugs. The manual process reduces the contact stiffness of the lock components, and the final link dimension (between the cylindrical gauge end that simulates a cartridge, and the breeching lock face) set during the assembly is distorted when the breech lock components are exposed to shot impact loads. For this reason, the cylindrical cartridge dummy used for the initial assembly is sized to allow for subsequent plastic deformation at the breech lock component interfaces. The deformation value is determined experimentally on an ad hoc basis. Polynomial expressions have been obtained experimentally for the interface plastic deformation vs. relative positioning errors and surface finish relation for parts made of typical military steel grades. To study the relation between the interface surface machining methods and contact stiffness flat specimens, 50RA steel quenched to HRC 40…45 (the roughness Rz
is 10…15 μm) were machined as follows: peripheral pregrinding; flank milling; file crosswise (at 45°) movements. The results generated after processing the measurements made with a HOMMEL TESTER W55 instrument show that finish flank milling yields the best results.
Modelling of normal pressures distribution in a polymer-made orthopaedic insole for plantar fasciitis treatment
Authors: Gorokhova N M , Perepelkina S Y , Kovalenko P P
Published: March 2021

This research is aimed at the developing an optimal design of orthopaedic insole for plantar fasciitis treatment. This article presents a brief description of the experiment performed to analyse the pressure distribution in human foot, and describes the necessary calculations made for the insole construction A mathematical model was built after the experiment and its further correction was performed, using machine learning algorithms. After the correction of the model, the polymer properties were analysed. The results of the analysis show that to perform the optimal unload of the loaded foot segments there is a need for a polymer thickness change. The respective analysis was performed and a necessary polymer thickness alteration range (1-2 mm) was introduced.
Superconducting lines cable inputs. Thermal processes modelling
Authors: Firsov V P , Yakovlev A A , Golovanov D V
Published: March 2021

The article considers the thermal state in the basic elements of a cryogenic energy transfer line with high-temperature superconductors. The temperature fields distribution in the heat-stressed elements of the cryogenic energy transmission line with high-temperature superconductors depends on the methods of supplying the cryogenic coolant to cable cryostats and current leads. A large contribution to the total heat flux, especially in cable power lines of short length, falls at the current leads. Computations of complex real current lead structures consist in the joint solution of the hydrodynamics and heat transfer equations for the flux, and the energy equation for the wall. The article considers a three-dimensional non-stationary motion of weakly compressible media (gas and liquid) with a free surface in a semi-closed volume at Mach numbers up to 0.3. The mathematical model is based on the Navier-Stokes equations and total enthalpy. These equations are being solved in conjunction with the equation of state for gas or liquid, the equations for the low Reynolds k-ε turbulence model, and the three-dimensional energy equation for the wall. Recently, Flow Vision application package, or specially designed software are being used for complex three-dimensional thermal calculations.
Simulation the motion of a viscous fluid containing graphene plates in the gap between static and rotating stepped discs
Authors: Alhilo Z , Baranov A , Pershin V
Published: March 2021

The motion of a viscous fluid containing graphene nanostructures in a thin gap between a stationary stepped stator and a rotating stepped rotor is considered. Dependences are obtained for calculating the parameters of motion of an elementary volume of a viscous liquid. Using the Maple mathematical package, characteristic trajectories of movement of elementary volumes of fluid in the gap are obtained. A similar idea of the movement trajectories of an elementary volume was obtained using computational fluid dynamics using the Flow Vision package (TESIS, Russia). The transition from a mathematical description to a computer model makes it possible to take into account changes in the viscosity of a liquid caused by a change in the concentration of graphite in the initial suspension. The use of a computer model opens the way to modeling the mixing of graphene nanostructures with a viscous liquid.
Study of the process of forming large-sized thin-walled parts
Authors: Demyanenko E G , Popov I P , Yu Kosolapova A
Published: March 2021

A method for producing large-sized parts of the bottom type, based on flanging processes, is considered. The method includes three operations for flanging different parts to be welded into a part. This allows flanging processes to be carried out using both the geometric and power characteristics of the Schuler press. The results of modeling different parts of a part with a minimum thickness difference are presented. The parameters of the flanging processes are determined.
Fractal model of structure-properties effect of low carbon steel
Authors: Volchuk V M , Uzlov O V , Puchikov O V , Ivantsov S V , Tiutieriev I A
Published: March 2021

Fractal theory has been used for predicting of microstructure (ferrite, pearlite and non-metallic inclusions) effect on mechanical properties (KCV60, a0.2, crB, S) of S355J2 steel. The fractal model which has been obtained may be considered as additive database. The database can be complemented by different treatment modes and microstructure. It has been stated that good response of structure-properties has been obtained for strength characteristics (a0.i crB) of S355J2 steel and fractal size of lamellar pearlite. Also, correspondence of elongation to fractal size of ferrite has been obtained. As it has been determined the better correspondence of fractal size of non-metallic inclusions defined to impact toughness of S355J2 steel. The results have been confirmed by effect of low carbon steel microstructure on mechanical properties of the steel. The histogram of microstructure and non-metallic inclusions effect on mechanical properties of S355J2 steel has been plotted.
Experimental verification of the of contamination reduction of silicon during electron beam melting due to the use of a gas-dynamic window
Authors: Kravtsov A , Chikvaidze G
Published: March 2021

Metallurgical process of producing initial rods for FZ silicon single crystal application was described before. Purity of pulled ingots was satisfied, but some impurities level was over required level. Concentrations of these impurities such Fe; Cr; Cu; Al; O2 been decreased by gas dynamic window and electric trap in laboratory scale equipment. Present article described results of experiments on industry scale equipment with application gas dynamic window for purifying indicated impurities in initial rods and results received in FZ silicon single crystals, grown from that rods, for concentrations of Aluminum and Oxygen.
Formation of a composite structure in Ti-Cr alloys using reversible hydrogen alloying
Authors: Skvorcova S V , Zaynetdinova G T , Afonina M B , Ya Anackaya A
Published: March 2021

The aim of this work is to study the regularities of the influence of hydrogen doping on the course of phase and structural transformations in Ti-Cr alloys. The influence of the amount of hydrogen on the preferred sites of intermetallic separation was studied. The influence of hydrogen on the lines of variable solubility of the state diagram Ti-Cr is studied. The possibility of controlling the process of structure formation in titanium alloys with p-eutectoid-forming stabilizers by additional alloying with hydrogen and obtaining such types of structures that are not typical for them with traditional methods of technological influence is shown.
Composites based on polypropylene and Georgian minerals
Authors: Aneli J , Gventsadze D , Shamanauri L , Chkonia A M , Samkharadze Z V
Published: March 2021

Polymer composites on the basis of secondary polypropylene and high dispersive powders of minerals wide spread in Georgia (andesite, quartz sand and a slam) were obtained and investigated their some physical-mechanical, thermal and hydrophobic properties. It is shown that the ultimate strength, and thermal stability extremely depend on the filler concentration and at definite significant of the concentration have maximums. For the composites with binary fillers (quartz sand/slam, quartz sand/andesite and slam/andesite) revealed synergistic effect of anomaly increasing of the ultimate strength at definite proportion of fillers. It is established that modification of the mineral fillers with tetraethoxisilane enhances technical characteristics of the composites.
A multistage heat pump unit model for reducing energy consumption of space heating at low ambient temperatures
Authors: Kosoi A S , Antipov Y A , Shkarin K V , Shatalov I K , Sokolov D D
Published: March 2021

Air heat pump units (HPUs) for space heating are used more widely than geothermal ones, mainly due to lower installation costs. The main disadvantages of geothermal installations are their low productivity and coefficient of performance (COP). In this work, a multistage heat pump unit with an air source was modeled, which lead to reduce in the energy consumption of the compressors in all of the HPU stages at an ambient temperature of -30 ° C and a heating temperature from 20 ° C to 65 ° C. Wherein, the COP of the modeled multistage HPU in all modes is 20% higher in comparison with a two-stage HPU considered in the literature review. In addition, the influence of the decrease in the ambient temperature on the increase in the energy consumption of the first stage of a multistage HPU was presented in this work.
Triangular finite element in a mixed formulation for a flate problem of elasticity theory
Authors: Gureeva N A , Ryabukha V V
Published: March 2021

Annotation. The algorithm for obtaining the stress-strain state matrix of a triangular finite element in a mixed formulation for calculating elastic structures under flat stress and flat deformation is analyzed. The nodal unknowns are assumed to be displacements and stresses. Approximation of desired quantities through the nodal values was carried out pelenanie functions. The stress-strain state matrix is obtained on the basis of a functional that reflects the equality of the actual work of external and internal forces when replacing the actual work of internal forces with the difference between the total and additional work of these forces. The calculation example shows the specificity of the algorithm.
Study of the influence of discharge loop parameters on anode side on generation characteristics of metal plasma jet in a pulsed vacuum discharge
Authors: ZHANG Wenjun , LIU Wenzheng , TIAN Jia , GAO Yongjie , JIANG Xitao , LIU Pengxiang
Published: March 2021

In a pulsed vacuum discharge, the ejection performance of a metal plasma jet can be effectively improved by preventing charged particles from moving to the anode. In this paper, the effects of resistance and capacitance on the anode side on the discharge characteristics and the generation characteristics of plasma jet are investigated. Results show that the existence of a resistor on the anode side can increase the anode potential, thereby preventing charged particles from entering the anode and promoting the ejection of charged particles along the axis of the insulating sleeve nozzle. The application of a capacitor on the anode side can not only absorb electrons at the initial stage of discharge, increasing the peak value of the cathode hump potential, but also prevent charged particles from moving to the anode, thereby improving the ejection performance of the plasma jet. In addition, the use of a larger resistance and a smaller capacitance can improve the blocking effect on charged particles and further improve the ejection performance of the plasma jet. Results of this study will provide a reference for the improvement of the ejection performance of plasma jets and their applications.
Increases in Risky Drinking During the COVID-19 Pandemic Assessed via Longitudinal Cohort Design: Associations With Racial Tensions, Financial Distress, Psychological Distress and Virus-Related Fears
Authors: Lechner William V , Sidhu Natasha K , Jin Jackson T , Kittaneh Ahmad A , Laurene Kimberly R , Kenne Deric R
Published: March 2021

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has created disruptions to daily life resulting in wide-spread unemployment and psychological distress. Recent studies have reported high rates of alcohol use during this time; however, longitudinal data remain scarce and factors associated with increases in high-risk drinking observed over time are unknown.

Aims

The current study examined changes in high-risk drinking patterns across four 7-day observation periods, prior to and following a university wide campus closure. Additionally, factors associated with changes in alcohol use patterns were examined including financial distress, psychological distress, impact of racial tensions and virus-related fears.

Method

Students (N = 1001) in the Midwestern USA completed repeated assessments between March and June 2020. Each survey included a timeline follow-back measure of alcohol use. Pandemic-related distress spanning several factors was assessed at the final follow-up.

Results

Risky drinking patterns increased significantly over time. Overall, psychological distress and impact of racial tensions were associated with higher rates of risky drinking, whereas COVID-19-related fears were associated with lower rates. However, only financial-related distress was associated with an increase in risky drinking patterns over time.

Conclusions

Increased risky drinking patterns observed in the current study may signal problems that are likely to persist even after the direct impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on daily life ends. Individuals experiencing financial distress may represent a particularly high-risk group. Interventions targeting the cross-section of job loss, financial stress and problematic alcohol use will be important to identify.
Aging Process of Lateral Facial Fat Compartments: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Yang Ching-Sheng , Huang Yau-Li , Chen Chun-Bing , Deng Chih-Ying , Liu Yu-Ting , Huang Po-Han Patrick , Chang Kuang-Cheng
Published: March 2021

Background

Since 2007, when the anatomy of facial fat compartment was described, an increasing number of studies on the aging process of the compartment of cadavers has emerged.

Objectives

The authors evaluated the aging changes of lateral facial fat compartments on the same person.

Methods

Sixty-three patients were included in this retrospective study. All patients had magnetic resonance imaging scans with at least 4 years apart. The authors targeted the fat compartments of the superficial temporal, subcutaneous temporal, and buccal fat pad, comparing the data on different time points.

Results

The thickness of the subcutaneous temporal fat did not change significantly. The 3 diameters of the superficial temporal fat compartment all became thinner on the axial view (P < 0.05). On the sagittal view, the superficial temporal fat elongated from 38.89 mm to 43.74 mm (P < 0.05). The buccal fat compartment also lengthened from 68.73 mm to 74.39 mm (P < 0.05) and had a positive correlation with follow-up duration only.

Conclusions

The study revealed the fat compartment change on the same person with time. The temporal hollow mainly originates from the thinner part of the superficial temporal fat. The descending of the buccal fat pad aggravates the labiomandibular fold. By understanding the aging process more fully, we can rejuvenate our patients more naturally.
The Change of Plane of the Supratrochlear and Supraorbital Arteries in the Forehead—An Ultrasound-Based Investigation
Authors: Cotofana Sebastian , Velthuis Peter J , Alfertshofer Michael , Frank Konstantin , Bertucci Vince , Beleznay Kate , Swift Arthur , Gavril Diana L , Lachman Nirusha , Schelke Leonie
Published: March 2021

Background

Injecting soft tissue fillers into the deep plane of the forehead carries the risk of injection-related visual compromise due to the specific course of the arterial vasculature.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the 2- and 3-dimensional location of the change of plane of the deep branch of the supratrochlear and supraorbital artery, respectively.

Methods

A total of 50 patients (11 males and 39 females; mean age, 49.76 [13.8] years, mean body mass index, 22.53 [2.6] kg/m2) were investigated with ultrasound imaging. The total thickness and the distance of the arteries from the skin and bone surface were measured with an 18-MHz broadband compact linear array transducer.

Results

The deep branch of the supraorbital artery changed plane from deep to superficial to the frontalis muscle at a mean distance of 13 mm (range, 7.0-19.0 mm) in males and at 14 mm (range, 4.0-24.0 mm) in females and for the deep branch of the supratrochlear artery at a mean distance of 14 mm in males and females (range, 10.0-19.0 in males, 4.0-27.0 in females) when measured from the superior orbital rim.

Conclusions

Based on the ultrasound findings in this study, it seems that the supraperiosteal plane of the upper and lower forehead could be targeted during soft tissue filler injections because the deep branches of both the supraorbital and supratrochlear arteries do not travel within this plane. The superficial plane of the lower forehead, however, should be avoided due to the unpredictability and inconsistent presence of the central and paracentral arteries.

Level of Evidence: 4
Medullary thyroid cancer outcomes in patients with undetectable versus normalized postoperative calcitonin levels
Authors: Fanget F , Demarchi M S , Maillard L , Lintis A , Decaussin M , Lifante J C
Published: March 2021

Background

Calcitonin (Ct) is a sensitive diagnostic biomarker and one of the most important prognostic factors in medullary thyroid cancer (MTC). This study aimed to evaluate progression-free survival and recurrence rates of MTC associated with undetectable compared with normalized serum Ct levels after surgery.

Methods

This retrospective observational study included patients operated for MTC at the Digestive and Endocrine Surgery Department of Lyon Sud Hospital Centre between 2000 and 2019. Clinical and pathological factors were correlated with postoperative Ct concentrations. Undetectable and normalized Ct concentrations were defined as below 2 pg/ml and 2–10 pg/ml respectively.

Results

Overall, 176 patients were treated for MTC, and 127 were considered biochemically cured after surgery. Of these, 24 and 103 had normalized and undetectable Ct concentrations respectively. Patients with Ct level normalization had a 25 per cent risk of disease recurrence, compared with 3 per cent in patients with undetectable Ct levels after surgery. The presence of metastasis in two or more compartments was predictive of failure to achieve undetectable Ct concentrations after surgery and an increased risk of recurrence.

Conclusion

Among patients with biochemically cured MTC, those with undetectable or normalized Ct concentrations after surgery had different risks of recurrence. Simply assessing postoperative Ct normalization can be falsely reassuring, and long-term follow-up is needed.
Validated Indices for Histopathologic Activity Predict Development of Colorectal Neoplasia in Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Pai Rish K , Hartman Douglas J , Leighton Jonathan A , Pasha Shabana F , Rivers Claudia Ramos , Regueiro Miguel , Binion David G , Pai Reetesh K
Published: March 2021

Background and Aims

To correlate histologic activity in surveillance colonoscopies with the development of colorectal neoplasia in ulcerative colitis [UC].

Methods

Colorectal biopsies during surveillance [N = 764] from 52 UC patients with colorectal neoplasia were compared to 122 patients without neoplasia enrolled in a prospective natural history registry. All biopsies were scored using validated histologic scoring systems (Geboes score, Nancy histopathologic index [NHI], and Robarts histopathologic index [RHI]). Clinical, endoscopic, and histologic data were correlated with the development of colorectal neoplasia.

Results

In multivariable analysis, mean RHI (hazard ratio [HR] 1.07 for each 1-unit increase in RHI, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.03–1.12, p = 0.002) and mean NHI [HR 1.89 for each 1-unit increase in NHI, 95% CI 1.34–2.67, p = 0.002] for the entire surveillance period were significantly associated with colorectal neoplasia development. Shorter surveillance interval and increasing age were associated with increased risk of neoplasia development whereas mean Mayo endoscopic score was not significant. To generate a clinically useful measure of neoplasia risk, mean histologic activity in the preceding 5 years before the study endpoint was correlated with neoplasia development. In the preceding 5 years of surveillance, a mean RHI ≥ 8 had a 7.53-fold increased risk [95% CI 2.56–12.16, p < 0.001] and mean NHI ≥ 1.9 had a 5.89-fold increased risk [95% CI 2.18–15.92, p < 0.001] of developing colorectal neoplasia.

Conclusions

Persistent histologic activity during multiple surveillance episodes is an independent predictor of colorectal neoplasia. Mean RHI and mean NHI during a 5-year colonoscopic surveillance period can be used to assess risk for colorectal neoplasia and optimize UC surveillance.
Risk Factors for Incident Falls and Fractures in Older Men With and Without Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: The Concord Health and Ageing in Men Project
Authors: Mesinovic Jakub , Scott David , Seibel Markus J , Cumming Robert G , Naganathan Vasi , Blyth Fiona M , Le Couteur David G , Waite Louise M , Handelsman David J , Hirani Vasant
Published: March 2021

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) increases falls and fracture risk. Our objective was to compare incidence and risk factors for falls and fractures in community-dwelling older men with and without T2DM.

Methods

A total of 1705 men (471 with T2DM; 1234 without T2DM) aged ≥70 years were assessed at baseline. Men were contacted every 4 months for 6.0 ± 2.2 years to ascertain incident falls and fractures, with the latter being confirmed by radiographic reports. Hip fractures were ascertained via data linkage (follow-up: 8.8 ± 3.6 years). Risk factors for falls and fractures included physical activity and function, body composition, medications, and vision measures.

Results

Men with T2DM had similar fall (incident rate ratio [IRR]: 0.92 [95% confidence interval {CI}: 0.70, 1.12], n = 1246) and fracture rates (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.86 [95% CI: 0.56, 1.32], n = 1326) compared to men without T2DM after adjustment for significant risk factors. In men with T2DM, depression (IRR: 1.87 [95% CI: 1.05, 3.34], n = 333), sulphonylurea usage (IRR: 2.07 [95% CI: 1.30, 3.27]) and a greater number of prescription medications (IRR: 1.13 [95% CI: 1.03, 1.24]) were independently associated with increased fall rates, and higher total hip bone mineral density was independently associated with lower fracture rates (HR: 0.63 [95% CI: 0.47, 0.86], n = 351). Interaction terms demonstrated that better contrast sensitivity was independently associated with lower fracture rates (HR: 0.14 [95% CI: 0.02, 0.87]) in men with T2DM compared to men without T2DM.

Conclusion

Fall and fracture rates were similar in men with and without T2DM after adjusting for significant risk factors. Vision assessments including contrast sensitivity measures may improve fracture prediction in older men with T2DM.
Unpacking the Complexity of Migrated Older Adults’ Lives in the United Kingdom Through an Intersectional Lens: A Qualitative Systematic Review
Authors: Ma Mengxing , Joshi Gaurav
Published: March 2021

Background and Objectives

The intersection of population aging and international migration increases the ethnic and cultural diversity of the U.K. older population, which has significant implications for health and care services and requires social inclusion and equal access to welfare. This review aimed to explore the complexity of migrated older adults’ lives and analyze how their multiple identity markers interweave and affect their lived experiences.

Research Design and Methods

This review is a qualitative systematic review. Intersectionality was applied as a theoretical scaffold to inform the qualitative thematic synthesis of the data.

Results

A total of 29 studies in the period 2000–2020 were included. Three themes, language barriers, racism and discrimination, and negotiating cultural influences, were identified as common challenges faced by migrated older adults. However, the degree of these challenges and the resources to buffer their effects vary dramatically given the significant differences in migrated older adults’ gender, socioeconomic status (SES), cultural backgrounds, and migration pathways.

Discussion and Implications

Rather than focusing on any single factor, it is required to consider the intersection of age, race, ethnicity, gender, SES, and migration status to understand and address inequality not only between migrated older adults and native older adults, among different migrated older adult groups but also within any certain group. This review calls for the acknowledgment and awareness of policymakers, care and service practitioners, and academics on the heterogeneity of migrated older adults.
Conditions for turbulent Ekman layers in precessionally driven flow
Authors: Buffett B A
Published: March 2021

Ekman layers develop at the boundaries of the Earth’s fluid core in response to precession. Instabilities in these layers lead to turbulence when a local Reynolds number, Re, based on the thickness of the Ekman layer, exceeds a critical value. The transition to turbulence is often assessed using experiments for steady Ekman layers, where the interior geostrophic flow is independent of time. Precessionally driven flow varies on diurnal timescales, so the transition to turbulence may occur at a different value of Re. We use 3-D numerical calculations in a local Cartesian geometry to assess the transition to turbulence in precessional flow. Calculations retain the horizontal component of the rotation vector and account for the influence of fluid stratification. The transition to turbulence in a neutrally stratified fluid occurs near Re = 500, which is higher than the value Re = 150 usually cited for steady Ekman layers. However, it is comparable to the nominal value for precessional flow in the Earth. Complications due to fluid stratification or a magnetic field can suppress the transition to turbulence, reducing the likelihood of turbulent Ekman layers in the Earth’s core.
Induction of the endogenous sialoglycan ligand for eosinophil death receptor Siglec-8 in chronic rhinosinusitis with hyperplastic nasal polyposis
Authors: Lee Hyun Sil , Gonzalez-Gil Anabel , Drake Virginia , Li T August , Schnaar Ronald L , Kim Jean
Published: March 2021

Siglec-8, an immune-inhibitory sialoglycan binding lectin (S8), is expressed on the surface of eosinophils and mast cells, which are potent mediators of allergic inflammation. When S8 engages endogenous sialoglycan ligands, eosinophils undergo apoptosis and mast cell mediator release is inhibited. In the human airway, Siglec-8 ligands (S8L) are sialylated keratan sulfate chains carried on isoforms of the protein Deleted in Malignant Brain Tumors-1 (DMBT1), an immunoregulatory protein that we recently identified as the endogenous ligand for S8, DMBT1S8. We herein report that S8L is overexpressed in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP), a prevalent eosinophilic laden airway disease. Quantification and comparison of the degree to which DMBT1 carries the S8L by immunoblot analysis and lectin blot overlay, respectively, from nasal lavage showed that the S8L/DMBT1 ratio was significantly increased in CRSwNP vs. control or CRS patients. We identified the histological sites of S8L and DMBT1 expression in fresh surgically resected human nasal polyps. Histochemistry of diseased polyps and adjacent nondiseased middle turbinate (MT) tissue from CRSwNP demonstrated colocalization of S8L and DMBT1 with highest staining in submucosal glands >> epithelium > stoma. S8L expression was specifically elevated in the submucosal glands and epithelium of polyp tissue compared to MT. We hypothesize that expression of the isoform of DMBT1 carrying the Siglec-8 binding sialoglycan, DMBT1S8, is induced in polyps of CRSwNP specifically at the site of disease, is produced in the submucosal glands of polyps and secreted into the lumen of the sinonasal cavity as a host response to mitigate eosinophil-mediated inflammation.
The Valuation Date of an Unlawfully Expropriated Property in International Investment Arbitration: A Critique of Acquisitive Valuation
Authors: Bahmaei Mohammad-Ali , Faraj Mehrabi Hassan
Published: March 2021

The valuation date of an expropriated property is considered a major element in the calculation of compensation. Some international investment tribunals, relying on the standard set by the Permanent Court of International Justice (PCIJ) in the Chorzów Factory case, have adopted a dual standard for determining the valuation date and have switched between the date of taking and the date of award to secure the highest amount of compensation in cases of unlawful expropriation. For the proponents of this method, it helps to distinguish between compensation for lawful and unlawful expropriations. This article labels such an approach as ‘acquisitive valuation’ and challenges its legal justification. It shows that acquisitive valuation is associated with punitive damages and fails to comply with the standard set out in the Chorzów Factory case. Using the ex post information is similarly to be avoided under that standard. Finally, although mindful of the hindsight issue, the article advocates the adoption of the date of taking as the valuation date in both lawful and unlawful expropriations. The extension of the scope of damages, including the loss of profit and consequential damages, if incurred, to the point in time when the investment was reasonably expected to continue instead of limiting the compensation to the fair market value of investment at the date of taking would more properly reflect the difference between lawful and unlawful expropriations.
Acylindrical Actions for Two-Dimensional Artin Groups of Hyperbolic Type
Authors: Martin Alexandre , Przytycki Piotr
Published: March 2021

For a two-dimensional Artin group $A$ whose associated Coxeter group is hyperbolic, we prove that the action of $A$ on the hyperbolic space obtained by coning off certain subcomplexes of its modified Deligne complex is acylindrical. Moreover, if for each $s\in S$ there is $t\in S$ with $m_{st}< \infty $, then this action is universal. As a consequence, for $|S|\geq 3$, if $A$ is irreducible, then it is acylindrically hyperbolic. We also obtain the Tits alternative for $A$, and we classify the subgroups of $A$ that virtually split as a direct product. A key ingredient in our approach is a simple criterion to show the acylindricity of an action on a two-dimensional $\textrm{CAT}(-1)$ complex.
Modeling genetic differences of combined broiler chicken populations in single-step GBLUP
Authors: Bermann Matias , Lourenco Daniela , Breen Vivian , Hawken Rachel , Brito Lopes Fernando , Misztal Ignacy
Published: March 2021

The introduction of animals from a different environment or population is a common practice in commercial livestock populations. In this study, we modeled the inclusion of a group of external birds into a local broiler chicken population for the purpose of genomic evaluations. The pedigree was composed of 242,413 birds and genotypes were available for 107,216 birds. A five-trait model that included one growth, two yield, and two efficiency traits was used for the analyses. The strategies to model the introduction of external birds were to include a fixed effect representing the origin of parents and to use unknown parent groups (UPG) or metafounders (MF). Genomic estimated breeding values (GEBV) were obtained with single-step GBLUP using the Algorithm for Proven and Young. Bias, dispersion, and accuracy of GEBV for the validation birds, that is, from the most recent generation, were computed. The bias and dispersion were estimated with the linear regression (LR) method,whereas accuracy was estimated by the LR method and predictive ability. When fixed UPG were fit without estimated inbreeding, the model did not converge. In contrast, models with fixed UPG and estimated inbreeding or random UPG converged and resulted in similar GEBV. The inclusion of an extra fixed effect in the model made the GEBV unbiased and reduced the inflation. Genomic predictions with MF were slightly biased and inflated due to the unbalanced number of observations assigned to each metafounder. When combining local and external populations, the greatest accuracy can be obtained by adding an extra fixed effect to account for the origin of parents plus UPG with estimated inbreeding or random UPG. To estimate the accuracy, the LR method is more consistent among scenarios, whereas the predictive ability greatly depends on the model specification.
Post-translational modification enzymes as key regulators of ciliary protein trafficking
Authors: Chaya Taro , Furukawa Takahisa
Published: March 2021

Primary cilia are evolutionarily conserved microtubule-based organelles that protrude from the surface of almost all cell types and decode a variety of extracellular stimuli. Ciliary dysfunction causes human diseases named ciliopathies, which span a wide range of symptoms, such as developmental and sensory abnormalities. The assembly, disassembly, maintenance and function of cilia rely on protein transport systems including intraflagellar transport (IFT) and lipidated protein intraflagellar targeting (LIFT). IFT is coordinated by three multisubunit protein complexes with molecular motors along the ciliary axoneme, while LIFT is mediated by specific chaperones that directly recognize lipid chains. Recently, it has become clear that several post-translational modification enzymes play crucial roles in the regulation of IFT and LIFT. Here, we review our current understanding of the roles of these post-translational modification enzymes in the regulation of ciliary protein trafficking as well as their regulatory mechanisms, physiological significance and involvement in human diseases.
‘Insects as Food and Feed: If You Can’t Beat Them, Eat Them!’—To the Magnificent Seven and Beyond
Authors: Rumbos Christos I , Athanassiou Christos G
Published: March 2021

The objective of this special issue is to highlight the current state of research in the field of insects as food and feed, but also other aspects on the exploitation of insect farming. In this editorial, we make a short introduction of the topic of the special issue, briefly present the contributions that are collected in it and offer some thoughts on the future research priorities and challenges that should be addressed. Regarding insect farming, there are additional applications, such as fertilizer, health-promoting products, and cosmetics, that can be produced and utilized, that go far beyond food and feed production.
Of pandas, fossils, and bamboo forests: ecological niche modeling of the giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) during the Last Glacial Maximum
Authors: Luna-Aranguré Carlos , Vázquez-Domínguez Ella
Published: March 2021

The giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) is the most basal living species in the phylogeny of the family Ursidae, with a specialized diet composed of a variety of bamboo species. The evolutionary history and past distribution patterns of the giant panda remain poorly understood. Our aim was to integratively apply distinct methods to evaluate the evolutionary history and distributional patterns of the giant panda; these included phylogeography, ecological niche modeling (ENM), and fossil data. To this end, we characterized the panda’s past and present ecological niches and the environmental conditions that define them. To estimate the panda’s phylogeographic patterns and the environmental conditions (precipitation and temperature) available across its historical geographic range, we evaluated its past distribution during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). Considering that modeling biotic interactions (e.g., foraging, predation) is still an enormous challenge, we propose a novel modeling strategy based on the panda’s specialized diet, using an ensemble of three bamboo genera with distribution across the panda’s historical geographic range. Finally, we tested the accuracy of our approach by evaluating its ability to predict the LGM fossils. Our results support that the panda’s diversification across its distribution happened ca. 2.7 million years (Mya), coinciding with the likely period when the panda changed from a carnivorous to a vegetarian diet (from the Pleistocene to the Pliocene), acquiring its exclusively bamboo-feeding habits until the mid-Holocene. Our findings provide evidence of a historical directional niche change along which the panda has currently reached the lower limits of temperature and precipitation conditions existing on the geography where its food is available. Our proposed ENM based on the panda’s food habits accurately predicted 85.7% of the LGM fossils, in stark contrast with the traditional approach of modeling the distribution of species by using exclusively its own occurrences. These results provide insights on how to include Eltonian components to undertake more robust ENM when only abiotic variables are available. We emphasize the importance of integrating fossil information, whenever available, into the niche modeling process to include the historical component when estimating species ecological niches.
Internal proof calculi for modal logics with separating conjunction
Authors: Demri Stéphane , Fervari Raul , Mansutti Alessio
Published: March 2021

Modal separation logics are formalisms that combine modal operators to reason locally, with separating connectives that allow to perform global updates on the models. In this work, we design Hilbert-style proof systems for the modal separation logics $\text {MSL}(\ast ,\langle \neq \rangle )$ and $\text {MSL}(\ast ,\Diamond )$, where $\ast $ is the separating conjunction, $\Diamond $ is the standard modal operator and $\langle \neq \rangle $ is the difference modality. The calculi only use the logical languages at hand (no external features such as labels) and can be divided in two main parts. First, normal forms for formulae are designed and the calculi allow to transform every formula into a formula in normal form. Second, another part of the calculi is dedicated to the axiomatization for formulae in normal form, which may still require non-trivial developments but is more manageable.
Bilateral Orchiectomy With or Without Flutamide for Metastatic Prostate Cancer
Authors: Dahm Philipp
Published: March 2021

This chapter summarizes the findings of a landmark randomized trial comparing total androgen deprivation in the form of bilateral orchiectomy plus the antiandrogen flutamide to bilateral orchiectomy alone. The study found no survival benefit but did find increased side effects from the addition of an antiandrogen.
Urinary Volume, Water Intake, and Stone Recurrence in Idiopathic Calcium Nephrolithiasis
Authors: Borofsky Michael S. , Bird Vincent G.
Published: March 2021

This chapter reviews a pivotal trial on the role of increased water intake for secondary prevention of recurrent stone formation patients with idiopathic calcium nephrolithiasis. Patients randomized to the intervention arm were instructed to titrate their water intake to a daily urine output of at least 2 liters; patients in the control arms were not given any specific instructions. Increased water intake resulted in fewer stone recurrences, longer time to recurrence, and reduced calcium oxalate and calcium phosphate supersaturation.
Retropubic Versus Transobturator Midurethral Slings for Stress Incontinence
Authors: Lane Giulia I. , Dixon Colby A. , Louis Moy M. , Fok Cynthia S.
Published: March 2021

This chapter summarizes the results of the Trial of Mid Urethral Slings (TOMUS), in which women with stress urinary incontinence were randomized to a retropubic midurethral sling versus a transobturator sling. Bladder perforations and voiding dysfunction occurred only in the retropubic sling group; neurologic symptoms (weakness and numbness) were significantly more common in the transobturator group. Both objective and subjective measures of treatment success at 12 months were similar. Based on this and subsequent studies, retropubic and transobturator midurethral sling approaches appear to have similar outcomes at 12 months for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence. However, the approaches differ in their adverse-event profiles.
Clean Intermittent Self-Catheterization in the Treatment of Urinary Tract Disease
Authors: Estrin Jeffrey I. , Elliott Sean P.
Published: March 2021

This chapter summarizes the landmark experience of introducing clean intermittent catherization in a small case series of pediatric and adult patients with incomplete bladder emptying due to various etiologies. Patients were taught to self-catheterize themselves after having washed their hands, or their mothers were instructed to do so. All adult patients reported that control of their urinary difficulties helped them return to “live a normal, happy life.” The pediatric patients remained afebrile and continent, without urinary tract infections during the study period. Most adult patients also remained free from urinary tract infections during the study period. This study demonstrated the safety and efficacy of a clean, non-sterile approach to intermittent catheterization.