bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neutron diffraction study of nitride perovskite LaReN3
Authors: Kloß Simon D. , Ritter Clemens , Attfield John Paul
Published: August 2022

Nitride perovskites ABN3 are extremely rare with only two known instances of bulk‐phase materials, ThTaN3 and LaReN3. Here, we present a powder neutron diffraction study of the recently‐reported nitride perovskite LaReN3. A full structural model of LaReN3 at 300 K (
, a=5.58523(5), b=5.59297(5), c=7.90419(6) Å, α=89.9170(8), β=90.1729(7), γ=90.1709(7)°) has been refined simultaneously against powder neutron and previously‐collected synchrotron X‐ray diffraction data. This indicates that the triclinic distortion is due to cooperative electronic distortions of ReN6 octahedra, and also demonstrates that all nitrogen positions are fully occupied so the sample is stoichiometric LaReN3. Lattice strains derived from fits to variable temperature powder neutron data from 5 to 300 K indicate that LaReN3 undergoes structural transitions to higher symmetry perovskite tilt structures between 300 and 350 K.
Introduction
Authors: Teske Sven
Published: August 2022

This is a brief introduction to the status of the international climate negotiations of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and its latest scientific publications, the status of global greenhouse gas emissions, and the impact of the pandemic on energy-related CO2 emissions. The research focus of this book is presented, and how the second part of the book relates to our first book Achieving the Paris Climate Agreement Goals is explained.

The background to the creation of the book is given. The parameters upon which the authors focused when documenting the assumptions used for all calculations are explained. The results and their derivation are presented.
Discussion, Conclusions, and Policy Recommendations
Authors: Teske Sven , Pregger Thomas , Niklas Sarah , Nagrath Kriti , Talwar Simran , Chatterjee Souran , Kiss Benedek , Ürge-Vorsatz Diana
Published: August 2022

This section summarizes the main findings of all parts of the research, with priority given to the most important findings to avoid the repetition of previous chapters. The key findings for the industry, services, buildings, and transport sectors, including the 12 sub-sectors analyzed, are provided and discussed. Policy recommendations for each sector and recommendations for the actions for governments, industries, the real economy, and financial institutions are offered.
Methodology
Authors: Teske Sven , Orbe Jaysson Guerrero , Assaf Jihane , Chatterjee Souran , Kiss Benedek , Ürge-Vorsatz Diana
Published: August 2022

The OneEarth Climate Model (OECM), its background, and program architecture are described. How the OECM is broken down into two independent modules to calculate demand and supply is explored. The basic program logic of the MATLAB-based bottom-up demand module, with high technical resolution, is described for various sectors, including the input and output parameters. The description includes numerous figures and tables for both demand and supply modules. The sub-sectors used for the OECM 1.5 °C pathway are listed, including outputs and the areas of use.

The second part of the chapter documents the high-efficiency building (HEB) model of the Central European University, which was used for the global and regional bottom-up analyses of the building sector. Its methodology, including the programme architecture, the workflow, and the equations used, is provided.
Decarbonisation Pathways for Services
Authors: Teske Sven , Nagrath Kriti , Niklas Sarah
Published: August 2022

The decarbonisation pathways for the service sector are derived. Brief outlines of the agriculture—food and forestry—wood product sectors, fishing industry, and water utilities are presented. The projected development of product quantities or GDP and the assumed development of energy intensities are given. The industry-specific energy consumptions and CO2 emission intensities are provided in tables. The non-energy-related CO2 emissions for all sectors analysed in this chapter are discussed and quantified.
Introduction: Unpacking Greening and Skills Recognition in Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises
Authors: Pavlova Margarita
Published: August 2022

This first chapter presents the nature of the regional research study on recognising green skills through non-formal learning across seven countries and one territory in Asia and the Pacific Region (APR), the methodology and approach to data collection, and the analytical framework. Furthermore, this chapter establishes the rationale for the book by detailing the argument that implementation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including the key aspects of sustainable development and lifelong learning, is closely related to green skills development and recognition in enterprises. As such, the two starting points for this study are the invisibility of the decisive role of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) (definition included in the glossary) in promoting green practices and green skills development, and the need for making visible the invisible outcomes of workers’ participation in learning activities through green skills recognition (definition included in the glossary). This chapter also introduces the analytical framework that is used in the study to develop a holistic understanding of the principles and approaches required for green skills recognition. To frame the analyses presented in Chap. 2 of the book and the model presented in Part III, macro, meso, and micro-levels are included in this framework: political decisions and policies that countries, and, in the context of this study, one territory, use to move towards green transition and greening of education and training; the role of standards, learning outcomes, and quality assurance mechanisms related to green skills and their inclusion in RVA; and actions at the level of enterprises.
Case Study: Nepal. The Inclusion of Green Competences in the Recognition of Prior Learning
Authors: Lamichhane Ramhari , Neupane Manoj Sharma
Published: August 2022

This chapter explores the status of environmentally friendly practices and the use of recognition, validation and accreditation (RVA) mechanisms to recognise skills in four major sectors of the Nepalese industry—catering, PVC manufacturing, automotive and waste management. A field survey was conducted on 20 enterprises in the aforementioned sectors. The Nepalese industrial sector is in a very early stage of its development and the level of environmental awareness among employers and employees is very low. Although the present status of the Nepalese industrial sector is at a nascent stage in the creation of green jobs, there seems to be potential for the creation of such opportunities in the future. However, to make use of these opportunities, it is necessary to understand workers’ skills and learning needs that will enable them to work in a way to overcome environmental degradation and mitigate climate change. Green skills that promote greater responsibility towards minimising the negative impact of industrial activities are vital for job creation and sustainable development. The recognition of green skills in the workplace and industry is an area for research that could bring green transformation to the Nepalese economy. The joint efforts of government, enterprises, occupational sectors and training providers, as well as international development partners, are important to institutionalise recognition of green skills in enterprises and industry.
RVA in Asia and the Pacific Region
Authors: Singh Madhu
Published: August 2022

The development of procedures for the recognition, validation and accreditation (RVA) of skills, learning and work experience obtained in non-formal and informal settings is a priority of UNESCO, central to lifelong and life-wide learning. The aim is to make visible and give value to the hidden and unrecognised competences that individuals have attained in various settings, strengthen lifelong learning pathways and increase labour market inclusion.
Case Study: India. The Role of the Skill Council for Green Jobs (SCGJ) in Recognising Green Skills and Upskilling Workers in Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises
Authors: Bishnoi Tanmay , Rai Deepak Kumar
Published: August 2022

This chapter focuses on the recognition of green skills and upskilling of employees in micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) dealing with waste management and renewable energy. In case of India, government pays a special attention to establishing and supporting a renewable energy (RE) sector, thus to contextualise this case study, RE is included in the analysis. It argues that recycling and reduction of waste, reuse of waste water, as well as the reduction of the negative impacts of climate change through renewable energy and energy-efficient devices, are key to all sectors—including catering, automotive and PVC manufacturing. India is one of the youngest nations in the world with more than 62% of its population in the working age group (15–59 years), therefore, to benefit from this demographic dividend, India needs to equip its workforce with employable skills and knowledge for sustainable growth. For the micro-level analysis, the study reported in this chapter was carried out with 47 enterprises. The results demonstrate a potential for recognizing ‘green skills’ that employees acquire non-formally and informally. The reported study was carried out by the Skill Council for Green Jobs (SCGJ), an autonomous body under the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE). SCGJ acts as a bridge between the Government of India and industry sectors in the implementation of skills development programmes considering industry needs and standards and relating them to the National Skill Qualification Framework (NSQF) levels.
Case Study: Malaysia. Recognising Green Skills in Non-formal Learning Settings
Authors: Ismail Sarimah , Suhairom Nornazira , Musta’mal Aede Hatib , Saud Muhammad Sukri , Kamin Yusri , Noordin Mohammad Khair
Published: August 2022

This chapter analyses the results of a study on recognition, validation and accreditation (RVA) of non-formal and informal learning outcomes based on interviews with staff from five enterprises, two in the automotive sector, two in catering services and one in PVC manufacturing. Both formal and informal enterprises were interviewed. Interviews with the enterprises across three sectors showed that most employers in both formal and informal enterprises were not familiar with the term ‘green skills’. However, they were aware of environmental policies and regulations related to their respective sectors, and they encouraged the implementation of certain green practices in their enterprises by creating awareness among staff, promoting attitudinal changes, monitoring compliance with rules and regulations as well as integrating green skills into staff training programmes and RVA. Findings highlighted the importance of the need for employers to have guidelines on how enterprises can affect environmental sustainability. Results of the study also showed the centrality of the role of stakeholders—including both public and private enterprises as well as NGO sectors, consumer associations and government departments—in pushing for the inclusion of green skills in staff training and RVA mechanisms.
Chaos in celestial CFT
Authors: Pasterski Sabrina , Verlinde Herman
Published: August 2022

Abstract

Celestial holography proposes a duality between gravitational scattering in asymptotically flat space-time and a conformal field theory living on the celestial sphere. Its dictionary relates the infinite dimensional space-time symmetry group to Ward identities of the CFT. The spontaneous breaking of these asymptotic symmetries governs the dynamics of the soft sector in the CFT. Here we show that this sector encodes non-trivial backreaction effects that exhibit characteristics of maximal quantum chaos. A key element in the derivation is the identification of the Hilbert space of celestial CFT, defined through radial quantization, with that of a constantly accelerating Rindler observer. From the point of view of the bulk, Rindler particles exhibit Lyapunov behavior due to shockwave interactions that shift the observer horizon. From the point of view of the boundary, the superrotation Goldstone modes affect the relevant representations of the celestial Virasoro symmetry in a manner that induces Lyapunov behavior of out-of-time-ordered celestial correlators.
Additional post-mortem inspection procedures and laboratory methods as supplements for visual meat inspection of finishing pigs in Europe—Use and variability
Authors: Laukkanen-Ninios Riikka , Ghidini Sergio , Gómez Laguna Jaime , Langkabel Nina , Santos Susana , Maurer Patric , Meemken Diana , Alban Lis , Alvseike Ole , Vieira-Pinto Madalena
Published: August 2022

In the EU, a post-mortem inspection of finishing pigs comprises visual inspections of the carcass and offal followed by additional examinations, such as palpation and incision of parts, when needed. Moreover, it can include various laboratory tests. Since European meat inspection is regulated by the EU, one may assume that post-mortem inspection is performed in the same way in the Member States. However, previous studies showed that variations exist. This article shows the results of a survey performed in September 2020 on how visual meat inspection of finishing pigs is applied in Europe. By using a questionnaire, palpations, incisions and other procedures for 10 gross pathological findings and laboratory methods applied by official veterinarians to evaluate the fitness of meat for human consumption were assessed. We received 44 responses from 26 European countries. Most respondents reported that visual meat inspection was a generally applied inspection method. The main reason for not applying visual meat inspection was export requirements. The most important reasons for applying palpations and incisions in addition to visual inspection were findings detected in ante- or post-mortem inspection. There was considerable variation in the use of palpations and incisions, other post-mortem procedures and laboratory tests to assess meat fitness for human consumption. The respondents mentioned some country-specific practices, but we also observed variations within the responding official veterinarians that could not be explained by country of origin or years of work experience. Additional detailed studies on the variation are needed before harmonisation of meat inspection procedures are attempted.
Violent experiences and neighbourhoods during adolescence: understanding and mitigating the association with mental health at the transition to adulthood in a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Latham Rachel M. , Arseneault Louise , Alexandrescu Bianca , Baldoza Saffron , Carter Alysha , Moffitt Terrie E. , Newbury Joanne B. , Fisher Helen L.
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Violence occurs at multiple ecological levels and can harm mental health. However, studies of adolescents’ experience of violence have often ignored the community context of violence, and vice versa. We examined how personal experience of severe physical violence and living in areas with high levels of neighbourhood disorder during adolescence combine to associate with mental health at the transition to adulthood and which factors mitigate this.

Method

Data were from the Environmental Risk Longitudinal Twin Study, a nationally representative birth cohort of 2232 British twins. Participants’ experience of severe physical violence during adolescence and past-year symptoms of psychiatric disorder were assessed via interviews at age 18. Neighbourhood disorder was reported by residents when participants were aged 13–14. Potential protective factors of maternal warmth, sibling warmth, IQ, and family socio-economic status were assessed during childhood, and perceived social support at age 18.

Results

Personal experience of severe physical violence during adolescence was associated with elevated odds of age-18 psychiatric disorder regardless of neighbourhood disorder exposure. Cumulative effects of exposure to both were evident for internalising and thought disorder, but not externalising disorder. For adolescents exposed to severe physical violence only, higher levels of perceived social support (including from family and friends) were associated with lower odds of psychiatric disorder. For those who also lived in areas with high neighbourhood disorder, only family support mitigated their risk.

Conclusion

Increasing support or boosting adolescents’ perceptions of their existing support network may be effective in promoting their mental health following violence exposure.
The effect of the addition of gold flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) and chia seeds (Salvia hispanica L.) on the physicochemical and antioxidant properties of cranberry jams
Authors: Kosiorowska Angelika , Pietrzyk Sławomir , Pająk Paulina , Socha Robert
Published: August 2022

Different form of seeds (whole or ground) may have a gelling effect and can substitute pectin in jams, moreover the type of their form have a remarkable impact on jams quality. The objective of this study was to ascertain if the form of added seeds have an influence on the physicochemical and antioxidant properties of cranberry jams incorporated in gold flax and chia seeds. Compared to traditional cranberry jam, the addition of both chia and gold flax seeds to the jams enhanced the nutritional value of samples by significant increase in protein, dietary fiber and polyunsaturated fatty acids content. Moreover, the enrichment of cranberry jams with seeds caused an increase in total polyphenols and phenolic acids content as well as their antioxidant activities. The texture measurement showed that both chia and flax seeds (irrespectively of their form) exhibited a gelling properties, however, the jams with the addition of ground seeds were characterized by similar texture as the control cranberry jam. Based on the obtained results, both gold flax and chia seeds can be considered as promising substitute for the gelling agents which additionally can change the physicochemical and antioxidant properties of jams.
Update on aneurysmal bone cyst: pathophysiology, histology, imaging and treatment
Authors: Restrepo Ricardo , Zahrah David , Pelaez Liset , Temple H. Thomas , Murakami James W.
Published: August 2022

Aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) is a benign but locally aggressive lesion that predominantly affects children and young adults. ABC, which accounts for approximately 70% of the cases, is now recognized to be a true neoplasm, whereas ABC-like changes associated to other bone neoplasms (also referred in the literature as secondary ABC) accounts for the remaining 30%. The solid variant of ABC is also considered a true neoplasm but is rare. ABC can involve any bone in the body, and although it has a metaphyseal preference, it can involve any part of a bone and soft tissues. As with any bone tumor, the initial evaluation of ABCs should be done with radiographs followed by magnetic resonance imaging or less frequently computed tomography for further characterization. The imaging appearance of ABC is variable; however, a lytic and expansile lesion with fluid-fluid levels is the most common presentation. The main differential diagnosis of an ABC in the pediatric population is unicameral bone cyst (UBC) and telangiectatic osteosarcoma, therefore a biopsy is recommended before treatment. The therapeutic options of ABC range from curettage with or without adjuncts such as phenol, liquid nitrogen, argon laser and bone grafting or bone substitutes to more recently employed alternatives such as image-guided sclerotherapy with various sclerosing agents and monoclonal antibodies (e.g., Denosumab).
Influence of Honey bee Nutritive Jelly Type and Dilution on its Bactericidal Effect on Melissococcus plutonius, the Etiological Agent of European Foulbrood
Authors: de La Harpe Marylaure , Gütlin Ayaka , Chiang Camilo , Dietemann Vincent , Dainat Benjamin
Published: August 2022

To defend themselves against pathogenic microorganisms, honey bees resort to social immunity mechanisms, such as the secretion of antibiotic compounds in the jelly they feed to their larvae. Whereas the bactericidal activity of jelly fed to queen larvae is well studied, little is known about the bioactivity of compositionally different jelly fed to worker larvae. However, the numerous worker larvae are likely to drive the spread of the microorganism and influence its virulence and pathogenesis. Diluted jelly or extracts are mostly used for jelly bioactivity tests, which may bias the evaluation of the pathogen’s resistance and virulence. Here, we compared the bactericidal effect of pure and diluted jellies destined for queen and worker larvae on Melissococcus plutonius, the etiological agent of the European foulbrood (EFB) disease of honey bees, and on a secondary invader bacteria, Enterococcus faecalis. We tested three strains of M. plutonius with varying virulence to investigate the association between resistance to antibacterial compounds and virulence. The resistance of the bacteria varied but was not strictly correlated with their virulence and was lower in pure than in diluted jelly. Resistance differed according to whether the jelly was destined for queen or worker larvae, with some strains being more resistant to queen jelly and others to worker jelly. Our results provide a biologically realistic assessment of host defenses via nutritive jelly and contribute to a better understanding of the ecology of M. plutonius and of secondary invaders bacteria in the honey bee colony environment, thus shedding light on the selective forces affecting their virulence and on their role in EFB pathogenesis.
Evaluation of modified and newly applied patella height indices in primary total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Schreiner Anna Janine , Spiegel Lena , Yan Shuang Gen , Konrads Christian , Erne Felix , Hemmann Philipp , Schmidutz Florian
Published: August 2022

Objective

The aim of this radiological study was to compare several relevant modified and newly applied patella height indices (PHI) in navigated primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) to determine intra- and interobserver reliability in order to give a recommendation for clinical application in measuring patella height (PH) in primary TKA.

Materials and methods

A retrospective data analysis assessing different PHI (modified Insall-Salvati index (mISI), Caton-Deschamps index (mCDI), Blackburne-Peel index (mBPI), Plateau-Patella Angle (mPPA); Miura-Kawaramura index (MKI), Knee-Triangular index (KTI)) on lateral knee radiographs was performed by two blinded observers using the same software three months pre- and postoperatively. Concordance correlation coefficient and Pearson’s correlation respectively were determined for intra- and interobserver rating as well as a categorization according to Landis and Koch and Cohen.

Results

A total of 337/291 patients of a 5-year period could be analyzed pre-/postoperatively. Excellent postoperative interrater results according to the categorization of Landis and Koch were achieved for the mBPI (Pearson 0.98) > mPPA (0.90) > KTI (0.86), good results for the MKI (0.79) and the mCDI (0.69), and moderate results for the mISI (0.52) with a predominantly strong Cohen correlation in almost all cases. Preoperatively, the mBPI and the KTI were the best interrated PHI. No PH changes could be found postoperatively for the mISI, KTI, MKI, and mPPA.

Conclusion

The mBPI, the mPPA, and the KTI can be recommended for PH assessment in TKA. The mPPA might be the easiest one to use in a daily clinical set-up.
Anti-CD38 antibody therapy for patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma: differential mechanisms of action and recent clinical trial outcomes
Authors: Leleu Xavier , Martin Thomas , Weisel Katja , Schjesvold Fredrik , Iida Shinsuke , Malavasi Fabio , Manier Salomon , Chang-Ki Min  , Ocio Enrique M. , Pawlyn Charlotte , Perrot Aurore , Quach Hang , Richter Joshua , Spicka Ivan , Yong Kwee , Richardson Paul G.
Published: August 2022

CD38 is a transmembrane glycoprotein that functions both as a receptor and an ectoenzyme, playing key roles in the regulation of calcium signaling and migration of immune cells to tumor microenvironments. High expression on multiple myeloma (MM) cells and limited expression on normal cells makes CD38 an ideal target for the treatment of MM patients. Two monoclonal antibodies directed at CD38, isatuximab and daratumumab, are available for use in patients with relapsed and/or refractory MM (RRMM); daratumumab is also approved in newly diagnosed MM and light-chain amyloidosis. Clinical experience has shown that anti-CD38 antibody therapy is transforming treatment of MM owing to its anti-myeloma efficacy and manageable safety profile. Isatuximab and daratumumab possess similarities and differences in their mechanisms of action, likely imparted by their binding to distinct, non-overlapping epitopes on the CD38 molecule. In this review, we present the mechanistic properties of these two antibodies and outline available evidence on their abilities to induce adaptive immune responses and modulate the bone marrow niche in MM. Further, we discuss differences in regulatory labeling between these two agents and analyze recent key clinical trial results, including evidence in patients with underlying renal impairment and other poor prognostic factors. Finally, we describe the limited existing evidence for the use of isatuximab or daratumumab after disease progression on prior anti-CD38 mono- or combination therapy, highlighting the need for additional clinical evaluations to define optimal anti-CD38 antibody therapy selection and sequencing in RRMM.
Concept maps to enable interdisciplinary research in cross-domain fusion
Authors: Hundsdörfer Marie , Kröger Peer , Kuhn Annegret , Oppelt Natascha , Peters Isabella , Wiemers Lisa Marie
Published: August 2022

A sound basis for an interdisciplinary dialogue is highly important for cross-domain fusion (CDF) dealing with knowledge transfer between working groups situated in different research disciplines. In this paper, we present a literature-based concept map as one example to start an interdisciplinary dialogue between disciplines for the showcase of the concept “coast” and illustrate how such a concept map can be used to explicate various computer science challenges and provide inputs for CDF. We use the strengths of a concept map to display gathered knowledge and perspectives, and hence view the different disciplines have on “coast” and further highlight inter- and intra-categorical connections between several disciplines. With this example, we also want to point out the importance for the understanding of data originating from different disciplines and to raise awareness about the various methods and models that provide data and information for CDF approaches.
Urinary incontinence in systemic sclerosis: a prospective multicentre cohort study
Authors: John Gregor , Zanatta Elisabetta , Polito Pamela , Piantoni Silvia , Fredi Micaela , Coattrenec Yann , Guemara Romain , Franceschini Franco , Truchetet Marie-Elise , Cozzi Franco , Airò Paolo , Chizzolini Carlo
Published: August 2022

Investigate the natural history of urinary incontinence (UI) in systemic sclerosis (SSc) and assess its impact on quality of life (QoL). A longitudinal, international observational study followed 189 patients with SSc for a median duration of 5 years (IQR: 4.8–5.3). Presence, subtype and severity of UI, hospital admission and QoL were assessed using serial self-administered questionnaires. Mortality data came from national death registries. Multilevel mixed-effect logistic regressions explored factors associated with UI. Cox models adjusted the effects of UI on hospitalization and death for age, sex and subtype of SSc. Mean annual rates of new-onset UI and remission were 16.3% (95%CI 8.3%–24.2%) and 20.8% (95%CI 12.6–29.1), respectively. Among UI patients, 57.9% (95%CI 51.8–64.0) changed from one UI subtype to another. Between annual questionnaires, the severity of UI was the same in 51.1% (95%CI 40.8–61.4), milder or resolved in 35.2% (95%CI 25.3–44.9), and worse in 13.8% (95%CI 6.7–20.9). Anti-centromere antibodies, digestive symptoms, sex, age, neurological or urological comorbidities, diuretics and puffy fingers were all associated with UI. The two strongest predictors of UI and UI subtypes were a recent UI episode and the subtype of previous leakage episodes. UI at inclusion was not associated with hospital admission (adjusted HR: 1.86; 95%CI 0.88–3.93), time to death (aHR: 0.84; 95%CI 0.41–1.73) or change in QoL over time. Self-reported UI among SSc patients is highly dynamic: it waxes and wanes, changing from one subtype to another over time.
Impact of delirium on the outcome of stroke: a prospective, observational, cohort study
Authors: Rollo Eleonora , Brunetti Valerio , Scala Irene , Callea Antonio , Marotta Jessica , Vollono Catello , Frisullo Giovanni , Broccolini Aldobrando , Calabresi Paolo , Della Marca Giacomo
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Delirium is an acute fluctuating disorder of attention and awareness, which often complicates the clinical course of several conditions, including acute stroke. The aim of the present study was to determine whether delirium occurrence impacts the outcome of patients with acute stroke.

Methods

The study design is single center, prospective, observational. We consecutively enrolled patients admitted to the stroke unit from April to October 2020. Inclusion criteria were age ≥ 18 years and diagnosis of acute stroke. Exclusion criteria were stroke mimics, coma, and terminal conditions. All patients were screened for delirium upon admission, within 72 h, and whenever symptoms suggesting delirium occurred by means of the Confusion Assessment Method for Intensive Care Unit and the Richmond Agitation Sedation Scale. Outcomes were evaluated with the 90-days modified Rankin Scale (mRS) by telephone interview.

Results

The final study cohort consisted of 103 patients (62 men; median age 75 years, interquartile range 63–81). Thirty-one patients (30%) developed delirium. In the multivariate ordinal logistic regression, patients with delirium had higher mRS scores at 3 months (DLR + : mRS = 4 (3–6); DLR–: mRS = 1 (1–3); adjusted odds ratio = 4.83; CI = 1.88–12.35; p = 0.006). Delirium was a risk factor for death (mRS = 6) in the univariate logistic regression (OR 4.5, CI = 1.44–14.07; p = 0.010), but not in the adjusted analysis (OR 3.45; CI = 0.66–17.95; p = 0.142). Survival time during 90-days follow-up was shorter in the delirium group (Log Rank χ2 3.89; p = 0.048).

Conclusion

Delirium negatively impacts the prognosis of patients with acute stroke. Patients with post-stroke delirium have a worse functional outcome and a shorter survival.
A systematic review of digital technology to evaluate motor function and disease progression in motor neuron disease
Authors: Beswick Emily , Fawcett Thomas , Hassan Zack , Forbes Deborah , Dakin Rachel , Newton Judith , Abrahams Sharon , Carson Alan , Chandran Siddharthan , Perry David , Pal Suvankar
Published: August 2022

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common subtype of motor neuron disease (MND). The current gold-standard measure of progression is the ALS Functional Rating Scale—Revised (ALS-FRS(R)), a clinician-administered questionnaire providing a composite score on physical functioning. Technology offers a potential alternative for assessing motor progression in both a clinical and research capacity that is more sensitive to detecting smaller changes in function. We reviewed studies evaluating the utility and suitability of these devices to evaluate motor function and disease progression in people with MND (pwMND). We systematically searched Google Scholar, PubMed and EMBASE applying no language or date restrictions. We extracted information on devices used and additional assessments undertaken. Twenty studies, involving 1275 (median 28 and ranging 6–584) pwMND, were included. Sensor type included accelerometers (n = 9), activity monitors (n = 4), smartphone apps (n = 4), gait (n = 3), kinetic sensors (n = 3), electrical impedance myography (n = 1) and dynamometers (n = 2). Seventeen (85%) of studies used the ALS-FRS(R) to evaluate concurrent validity. Participant feedback on device utility was generally positive, where evaluated in 25% of studies. All studies showed initial feasibility, warranting larger longitudinal studies to compare device sensitivity and validity beyond ALS-FRS(R). Risk of bias in the included studies was high, with a large amount of information to determine study quality unclear. Measurement of motor pathology and progression using technology is an emerging, and promising, area of MND research. Further well-powered longitudinal validation studies are needed.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials in the management of neovascular glaucoma: absence of consensus and variability in practice
Authors: Ramji Saajan , Nagi Gurnoor , Ansari Abdus Samad , Kailani Obeda
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Neovascular glaucoma (NVG) is characterised by neovascularisation of the angle and therefore elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). This results in progressive optic neuropathy and loss of visual acuity. Treatment aims to reduce IOP in order to prevent optic nerve damage. A systematic review was completed synthesising results from randomised control trials (RCTs) comparing interventions for the management of NVG and their efficacy and safety.

Methods

Data was sourced from Web of Science, Embase and Medline after 1st January 2000. The primary outcome measures were mean IOP at follow-up and success rate. The secondary outcomes included mean IOP lowering medications and total complications. A meta-analysis was completed on comparative studies using Revman (version 5.4).

Results

For the two studies comparing Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) + pan-retinal photocoagulation (PRP) vs AGV + PRP + intra-vitreal bevacizumab (IVB), there was no difference in mean IOP or odds of success from the meta-analysis. From the 4 studies examining the utilisation of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF), one study showed lower mean IOP at 1 (p = 0.002) and 3 months (p = 0.033) for IVB vs sham injection. In the 2 studies studying transcleral diode laser (TDL), there were no significant findings. From the 4 studies looking at trabeculectomy (trab), lower mean IOP at 6 (p = 0.001), 9 (p = 0.01), 12 (p = 0.02) and 18 months (p = 0.004) was shown for intra-vitreal ranibizumab (IVR) + PRP + visco-trabeculectomy vs IVR + PRP + trab, and a significantly lower mean IOP was present in the Baerveldt group vs trab at 6 months (p = 0.03). In the 2 studies investigating the AGV, there was a lower mean IOP at 1 month (p = 0.01) in the AGV + triamcinolone (TCA) group. The risk of bias was low for 4 studies, high for 4 studies and 6 studies had some concerns.

Conclusion

This is the first meta-analysis of RCTs in the management of neovascular glaucoma. The lack of high-quality evidence contributes to the lack of consensus in managing NVG. Our results highlight modern treatment strategies and the need for better powered RCTs with long-term follow-up in order to establish optimal treatment modalities and true patient outcomes.
SOX2 expression in the pathogenesis of premalignant lesions of the uterine cervix: its histo-topographical distribution distinguishes between low- and high-grade CIN
Authors: Moshi Jobran M. , Ummelen Monique , Broers Jos L. V. , Smedts Frank , Van de Vijver Koen K. , Cleutjens Jack P. M. , Litjens Rogier J. N. T. M. , Ramaekers Frans C. S. , Hopman Anton H. N.
Published: August 2022

SOX2 expression in high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN3) and cervical squamous cell carcinoma is increased compared to that in the normal cervical epithelium. However, data on the expression and histological distribution of SOX2 in squamous epithelium during progression of CIN are largely lacking. We studied SOX2 expression throughout the epithelium in 53 cases of CIN1, 2, and 3. In general, SOX2 expression increased and expanded from basal/parabasal to the intermediate/superficial compartment during early stages of progression of CIN. An unexpected, specific expression pattern was found in areas classified as CIN2 and CIN3. This pattern was characterized by the absence or low expression of SOX2 in the basal/parabasal compartment and variable levels in the intermediate and superficial compartments. It was significantly associated with CIN3 (p = 0.009), not found in CIN1 and only seen in part of the CIN2 lesions. When the different patterns were correlated with the genetic make-up and presence of HPV, the CIN3-related pattern contained HPV-positive cells in the basal/parabasal cell compartment that were disomic. This is in contrast to the areas exhibiting the CIN1 and CIN2 related patterns, which frequently exhibited aneusomic cells. Based on their SOX2 localisation pattern, CIN1 and CIN2 could be delineated from CIN3. These data shed new light on the pathogenesis and dynamics of progression in premalignant cervical lesions, as well as on the target cells in the epithelium for HPV infection.
Experimental Investigation of Thermal Strengthening in Sichuan Marble
Authors: Wong Louis Ngai Yuen , Cui Xin , Zhang Yahui , Wu Zhijun , Guo Tianyang
Published: August 2022

It is well documented that temperatures higher than 400 ℃ can significantly lower rock strength due to thermally induced decomposition and microcracks. However, rock strength increase under temperatures 25–400 ℃ has also been reported. It remains elusive whether thermal strengthening does exist or it is just an illusion caused by rock heterogeneity. To uncover such a mystery, we carried out triaxial compression tests on Sichuan marble under 25–200 ℃. Rock heterogeneity was at a low level and data dispersion was limited in our experiment. We managed to observe a clear trend of strength increase with temperature, justifying the existence of thermal strengthening in Sichuan marble. To unveil the mechanism of thermal strengthening, five factors, as predominant and comprehensive as we could concern, were investigated. After careful examination and analysis, thermal expansion was inferred to be the main reason leading to the thermal strengthening in Sichuan marble. The mechanism may lie in tighter compaction between mineral grains due to thermal expansion. Since thermal expansion is a physical process that can occur in all crystalline rocks upon heating, thermal strengthening holds a high potential to be a general property of crystalline rocks in the moderate temperature range. To our best knowledge, this study is the first to explicitly confirm the existence of thermal strengthening and comprehensively investigate the underlying mechanisms. The findings provide a new understanding of the thermal effect on rock strength, which may aid rock engineering design under a thermo-mechanical coupling working condition.
Epilepsy surgery without lipoma removal for temporal lobe epilepsy associated with lipoma in the Sylvian fissure
Authors: Nomura Kazuki , Suzuki Hiroharu , Iimura Yasushi , Mitsuhashi Takumi , Tamrakar Samantha , Ueda Tetsuya , Nishioka Kazuki , Fusegi Keiko , Tada Mari , Nakajima Madoka , Kakita Akiyoshi , Sugano Hidenori
Published: August 2022

Epileptic seizure is the common symptom associated with lipomas in the Sylvian fissure (Sylvian lipomas). Removal of these lipomas carries risks of hemorrhage and brain damage. We report a surgical strategy of not removing the lipoma in a case of intractable temporal lobe epilepsy associated with Sylvian lipoma. We performed anterior temporal lobectomy with preservation of the pia mater of the Sylvian fissure and achieved seizure freedom. Focal cortical dysplasia type 1 of the epileptic neocortex adjacent to the Sylvian lipoma was pathologically diagnosed. We recommend our surgical procedure in similar cases to avoid complications and achieve adequate seizure control.
High molecular diversity of full-length genome sequences of zucchini yellow fleck virus from Europe
Authors: Sareli Kyriaki , Winter Stephan , Chatzivassiliou Elisavet Κ. , Knierim Dennis , Margaria Paolo
Published: August 2022

Zucchini yellow fleck virus (ZYFV), genus Potyvirus, is the causal agent of a disease of cucurbits. The genome sequences of seven ZYFV isolates of different origin were determined, two of which were reconstructed from a squash (Cucurbita sp.) collected in 2017 in Greece, while the others, accessions from the DSMZ Plant Virus Collection, were from samples collected in Italy, Greece, and France in the 1980s and 1990s. A high level of molecular diversity, well dispersed along the genome, was observed, but this was within the limits for assignment of the virus isolates to the same species. P1 was the most diverse gene, and isolates from squash contained an insertion in this gene.
Exploring groundwater drought responsiveness in lowland post-glacial environments
Authors: Nygren Michelle , Barthel Roland , Allen Diana M. , Giese Markus
Published: August 2022

Groundwater drought response to meteorological forcing depends on initial hydrological conditions. This makes it difficult to characterise groundwater droughts and identify the drought vulnerability of aquifers. The objective is to increase the understanding of groundwater memory and response to meteorological forcing in lowland post-glacial environments. Eighty-one groundwater hydrographs are analysed, using the standardised groundwater level index (SGI) and the precipitation index. Memory and response times are assessed using auto- and cross-correlation functions. Response time is estimated by comparing two approaches: (1) the traditional use of the maximum cross-correlation, and (2) the alternative use of the cross-correlation slope. Results are interpreted for different hydrogeological settings. The analysis showed that sand aquifers have the longest memory and response times, particularly in confined settings where the memory could be over 4 years. Silts and tills have relatively short memories and response times, at less than 1 year, though median values for silt are higher than for unconfined sand aquifers. In this study, estimating response time using the correlation slope is superior at capturing the initial response time of groundwater to precipitation. However, the results showed that groundwater anomalies in lowland post-glacial environments are sometimes more influenced by climate teleconnections than concurrent forcing. This emphasises the need for a holistic approach for the characterisation and projection of groundwater drought, as it develops in simultaneous response to meteorological forcing at different timescales.
Proteomics analysis of lysine crotonylation and 2-hydroxyisobutyrylation reveals significant features of systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Xie Ting , Dong Jingjing , Zhou Xianqing , Tang Donge , Li Dandan , Chen Jiejing , Chen Yumei , Xu Huixuan , Xue Wen , Liu Dongzhou , Hong Xiaoping , Tang Fang , Yin Lianghong , Dai Yong
Published: August 2022

Introduction/objectives

To seek significant features of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) by utilizing bioinformatics analysis.

Method

Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) was used to quantify lysine crotonylation (Kcr) and lysine 2-hydroxyisobutyrylation (Khib) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients and normal controls.

Results

Seventy-six differentially modified proteins (DMPs) dually modified by Kcr and Khib were identified between SLE patients and healthy people. GO enrichment analysis prompted significant enrichment of seventy-six DMPs in MHC class II protein complex binding and leukocyte migration. KEGG pathways were enriched in antigen processing and presentation pathway and leukocyte transendothelial migration pathway. Six DMPs (CLTC, HSPA1B, HSPA8, HSP90AB1, HSPD1, and PDIA3) were identified in antigen processing and presentation pathway, of which HSPA8 was the core protein. Significant changes of Kcr and Khib in HSPA8 may increase ATP hydrolysis and promote antigen binding to MHC II molecule. In leukocyte transendothelial migration pathway, 7 DMPs (ACTN1, ACTN4, EZR, MSN, RAC1, RHOA, and VCL) were identified. MSN was the protein with the most modification sites in this pathway. In amino terminal ferm region of MSN, Kcr and Khib expression change may lead to the adhesion between leukocytes and endothelial cells, which was an important step of leukocyte migration.

Conclusion

Kcr and Khib may promote the antigen presentation and jointly regulate the tissue damage mediated by leukocyte migration in SLE patients, which may play key roles in the pathogenesis of SLE probably.

Key Points• Antigen processing and presentation and leukocyte transendothelial migration may play key roles in the pathogenesis of SLE.
Thiourea leaching of gold from processed municipal solid waste incineration residues
Authors: Abramov Sergey M. , He Jing , Wimmer Dominik , Muehe E. Marie , Helle Thomas , Thorwarth Harald , Kappler Andreas
Published: August 2022

Incineration is one of the key technologies in disposal of municipal waste, which produces municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) residues with high valuable metal contents. The recycling strategy for the MSWI residues is typically focused on the recovery of scrap metals yielding processed municipal solid waste incineration residues (PIR) as the main byproduct. However, the PIR still contains valuable metals, particularly gold, which cannot be extracted by conventional methods. Here, we evaluated the feasibility of using the 0.5–2.0 mm grain size fraction of PIR containing 28.82 ± 1.62 mg/kg of gold as raw material for a two-stage extraction process. In the first stage the alkalic fine-grained PIR was acidified with a solution of 20% (v/v) of HCl-containing flue gas cleaning liquid that is obtained by the municipal waste incineration plant itself as a waste product. In the second stage we leached the acidified fine-grained PIR by thiourea with Fe3+ as an oxidant. Application of the thiourea-Fe3+ leaching system resulted in recovery of 16.4 ± 1.56 mg/kg of gold from the fine-grained PIR within 6 h of incubation. Due to high gold market prices, upscaling of the suggested technology can represent a suitable strategy for gold recovery from PIR and other MSWI residues.
Testing for the presence of treatment effect under selection on observables
Authors: Conti Pier Luigi , De Giovanni Livia
Published: August 2022

The evaluation of the possible effects of a treatment on an outcome plays a central role in both theoretical and applied statistical and econometrical literature. This paper focuses on nonparametric tests for possible difference in the distribution of potential outcomes due to receiving or not receiving a treatment. The approach is based on weighting observed data on the basis on the estimated propensity score. Kolmogorov–Smirnov type and Wilcoxon–Mann–Whitney type tests are constructed, and their limiting distributions are studied. Rejection regions are obtained by inverting confidence intervals. This involves the study of appropriate estimators of the limiting variance of test statistics. Approximations of quantiles via subsampling are also considered. The merits of the different tests are studied by Monte Carlo simulation. An application to the construction of tests for stochastic dominance is provided.