bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of Triazole‐Containing rctt Tetra‐C‐Naphthyl‐Calix [4]resorcinarene and 1,1‐Dinaphthylmethane Derivatives
Authors: Serkova Olga S. , Glushko Valentina V. , Toropygin Ilya Yu. , Maslennikova Vera I.
Published: October 2020

rctt‐Octatriazolyl‐ortho‐methyl‐tetra‐C‐naphthyl‐calix[4]resorcinarenes containing triazole moieties on the horizontally and vertically arranged benzene rings of the macrocyclic core; rctt tetra‐triazolyl‐tetra‐phosphato‐ortho‐methyl‐tetra‐C‐naphthyl‐calix[4]resorcinarene with triazole groups being bound only to the vertically arranged benzene rings of the macrocycle and the phosphate groups being immobilized on the horizontally arranged benzene rings; di‐ and tetra‐triazolyl‐dinaphthylmethanes differing in the number and spatial orientation of chelate pairs; and 2,2′‐diphosphonato‐dinaphthylmethanes in which exocyclic substituents include the phosphonate and the terminal triazole moieties connected by linkers differing in the steric crowding were synthesized, isolated in high yields, and characterized. In all cases, the catalytic azide‐alkyne cycloaddition click reaction was the key step of the synthesis. One octatriazole calix[4]resorcinarene derivative was subjected to subsequent transformations in which the terminal ester groups in the triazole rings were converted to carboxyl and amide groups. The alkylation of rctt resorcinarenes with propargyl bromide and modification of octatriazole resorcinarene derivative with terminal ester groups by biologically active phenethylamine proceeded efficiently only under microwave irradiation.
The Glucose Effect on Direct Electrochemistry and Electron Transfer Reaction of Glucose Oxidase Entrapped in a Carbon Nanotube‐Polymer Matrix
Authors: Yin Ziyu , Ji Zuowei , Zhang Wendi , Taylor E. Will , Zeng Xinping , Wei Jianjun
Published: October 2020

In this work, glucose oxidase (GOx) cross‐linking to a single‐wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs)‐poly(ethylenimine) (PEI) matrix is investigated using cyclic voltammetry (CV) for its direct electrochemistry and kinetics with presence of glucose. The electrochemistry of the bound flavin cofactor, flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) of the GOx, is impeded by glucose and recovered at absence of glucose, whereas a non‐specific sugar (e. g. sucrose) has no such effect. The Faradaic current of the GOx in CV decreases when the concentration of glucose increases, while the calculated electron transfer (ET) rate constant (k0) of the GOx presents a monotonic increment manner up to 144 % at 70 mM glucose concentration vs. absence of glucose in a deaerated electrolyte solution. The k0 and Faradaic current changes demonstrate a strong linear relationship to logarithmic value of glucose concentration up to 20 mM. These results suggest that the entrapped GOx, when exposing to glucose, becomes deactivated in the direct electrochemistry. Further mechanistic analysis suggests the ET reaction of GOx shows a responsive correlation to the non‐ergodicity of those active GOx sites. A control experiment using pure FAD immobilized in the matrix doesn't show responses to glucose addition.
Highly Selective Two‐Electron Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction on Single‐Atom Cu Catalysts
Authors: Xu Chaochen , Zhi Xing , Vasileff Anthony , Wang Dan , Jin Bo , Jiao Yan , Zheng Yao , Qiao Shi-Zhang
Published: October 2020

Cu‐based electrocatalysts with high catalytic selectivity for the CO2 reduction reaction present a significant technological challenge. Herein, a catalyst comprised of Cu single atoms in a nitrogen‐doped graphene matrix (Cu–N4–NG) is developed for highly selective electrocatalytic reduction of CO2 to CO. The single‐atom structure and coordination environment of Cu–N4–NG are identified by synchrotron‐based characterization. Compared to a conventional bulk Cu catalyst, Cu–N4–NG achieves a Faradaic efficiency of 80.6% toward CO under a moderate applied potential of −1.0 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE). Kinetic experiments show that 1) the Cu–N4 moiety favors the CO2 activation step and 2) the moiety‐anchoring graphene facilitates water dissociation, which supplies protons for CO2 reduction. Moreover, density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that CO2 reduction is less hindered thermodynamically on Cu–N4–NG compared to the competing hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) due to their limiting potential differences. Therefore, the highest CO selectivity is observed on Cu–N4–NG over the bulk Cu catalyst due to more favorable kinetics and thermodynamics.
Study of a new type of steel slit shear wall with initially twisted links
Authors: He Liusheng , Ma Yiming , Bu Haifeng , Jiang Huanjun
Published: October 2020

To address the issue of strength and stiffness degradation of steel slit shear walls (SSSWs) after the occurrence of out‐of‐plane buckling at large lateral deformation, a new type of SSSW made by assembling initially twisted steel plate links is proposed in the present work. Three types of SSSW specimens, with vertical slits, narrow rhomboid openings, and initially twisted steel plate links, respectively, were manufactured and tested under quasi‐static cyclic loading. Test results showed that the SSSW assembled by initially twisted steel plate links had no strength degradation and a nearly constant positive second stiffness throughout the whole loading process with a maximum drift ratio of 6%, whereas the other two SSSW specimens exhibited obvious degradation of strength, stiffness and energy dissipation capacity. The new SSSW also had much smaller residual strength, and its deformation capacity was largely improved. The method to predict the elastic stiffness of the new SSSW was proposed, by which the predicted results agreed well with test results. A user‐defined macromodel was developed to simulate its force‐deformation hysteretic behavior.
Harnessing Globalization: An Everlasting Challenge
Authors: Halonen Tarja
Published: October 2020

In this chapter, President Tarja Halonen reflects on her experience serving as co-chair of the ILO World Commission on the Social Dimension of Globalization from 2002 to 2004. The World Commission’s work in achieving fair and inclusive globalization, and promoting decent work are discussed in detail. Major challenges to and prospects of the ILO as an international organization are reflected even more broadly, to build a view of the future of labour.
An Accidental Revolution: The ILO and the Opening Up of International Law
Authors: Klabbers Jan
Published: October 2020

This article discusses the pioneering role of the ILO not in terms of its contribution to labour law, but in terms of its epistemic relevance: it was the first international organization which cut through the classic borderline between national law and international law. In order to do so, the article sketches pre-ILO legal doctrine, and discusses the creation and particular structure of the ILO at some length: why even create an organization to address labour issues, instead of concluding a convention? This is followed by outlining just how relevant the role of the ILO has been.
Phenomenology of inclusive $$ \overline{B}\to {X}_s{\mathrm{\ell}}^{+}{\mathrm{\ell}}^{-} $$ for the Belle II era
Authors: Huber Tobias , Hurth Tobias , Jenkins Jack , Lunghi Enrico , Qin Qin , Vos K. Keri
Published: October 2020

Abstract

With the first data being recorded at Belle II, we are at the brink of a new era in quark flavour physics. The many exciting new opportunities for Belle II include a full angular analysis of inclusive $$ \overline{B}\to {X}_s{\mathrm{\ell}}^{+}{\mathrm{\ell}}^{-} $$

B
¯

→

X
s

ℓ
+

ℓ
−

which has the potential to reveal new physics, in particular by its interplay with the exclusive b → sℓ+ℓ− counterparts studied extensively at LHCb. In this paper, we present fully updated Standard Model predictions for all angular observables necessary for this endeavour. These predictions are tailored to Belle II and include an elaborate study of the treatment of collinear photons which become crucial when aiming for the highest precision. In addition, we present a phenomenological study of the potential for Belle II to reveal possible new physics in the inclusive decay channel, both in an independent manner and in combination with exclusive modes.
Momentum space CFT correlators for Hamiltonian truncation
Authors: Anand Nikhil , Khandker Zuhair U. , Walters Matthew T.
Published: October 2020

Abstract

We consider Lorentzian CFT Wightman functions in momentum space. In particular, we derive a set of reference formulas for computing two- and three-point functions, restricting our attention to three-point functions where the middle operator (corresponding to a Hamiltonian density) carries zero spatial momentum, but otherwise allowing operators to have arbitrary spin. A direct application of our formulas is the computation of Hamiltonian matrix elements within the framework of conformal truncation, a recently proposed method for numerically studying strongly-coupled QFTs in real time and infinite volume. Our momentum space formulas take the form of finite sums over 2F1 hypergeometric functions, allowing for efficient numerical evaluation. As a concrete application, we work out matrix elements for 3d ϕ4-theory, thus providing the seed ingredients for future truncation studies.
Renormalization group flow of Chern-Simons boundary conditions and generalized Ricci tensor
Authors: Pulmann Ján , Ševera Pavol , Youmans Donald R.
Published: October 2020

Abstract

We find a Chern-Simons propagator on the ball with the chiral boundary condition. We use it to study perturbatively Chern-Simons boundary conditions related to 2-dimσ-models and to Poisson-Lie T-duality. In particular, we find their renormalization group flow, given by the generalized Ricci tensor. Finally we briefly discuss what happens when the Chern-Simons theory is replaced by a Courantσ-model or possibly by a more general AKSZ model.
Next-to-next-to-leading-order radiative corrections to e+e− → χcJ + γ at B factory
Authors: Sang Wen-Long , Feng Feng , Jia Yu
Published: October 2020

Abstract

Within the nonrelativistic QCD (NRQCD) factorization framework, we have computed the $$ \mathcal{O}\left({\alpha}_s^2\right) $$
O

α
s
2

corrections to the exclusive production of P-wave spin-triplet charmonia χcJ (J = 0, 1, 2) accompanied with a hard photon at B factory. For the first time, we have explicitly verified the validity of NRQCD factorization for exclusive P-wave quarkonium production to two-loop order. Unlike the χcJ electromagnetic decays, the $$ \mathcal{O}\left({\alpha}_s^2\right) $$
O

α
s
2

corrections are found to be smaller than the $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(αs) corrections in all three channels e+e− → χc0,1,2 + γ. In particular, the $$ \mathcal{O}\left({\alpha}_s^2\right) $$
O

α
s
2

corrections appear moderate for χc1 + γ case, and marginal for χc0 + γ. Moreover, the predictions in next-to-next-to-leading order (NNLO) accuracy for the production rates of χc0,1 + γ are insensitive to the renormalization and factorization scales. All these features may indicate that perturbative expansion in these two channels exhibits a decent convergence behavior. By contrast, both the $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(αs) and $$ \mathcal{O}\left({\alpha}_s^2\right) $$
O

α
s
2

corrections to the χc2 + γ production rate are sizable, which reduce the Born order cross section by one order of magnitude after including the NNLO perturbative corrections. Taking the values of the long-distance NRQCD matrix elements from nonrelativistic potential model, our prediction to χc1 + γ production rate is consistent with the recent Belle measurement. The NNLO predictions to the χc0,2 + γ production rates are much smaller than that for χc1 + γ, which seems to naturally explain why the e+e− → χc0,2 + γ channels have escaped experimental detection to date.
Gravitational duals to the grand canonical ensemble abhor Cauchy horizons
Authors: Hartnoll Sean A. , Horowitz Gary T. , Kruthoff Jorrit , Santos Jorge E.
Published: October 2020

Abstract

The gravitational dual to the grand canonical ensemble of a large N holographic theory is a charged black hole. These spacetimes — for example Reissner- Nordström-AdS — can have Cauchy horizons that render the classical gravitational dynamics of the black hole interior incomplete. We show that a (spatially uniform) deformation of the CFT by a neutral scalar operator generically leads to a black hole with no inner horizon. There is instead a spacelike Kasner singularity in the interior. For relevant deformations, Cauchy horizons never form. For certain irrelevant deformations, Cauchy horizons can exist at one specific temperature. We show that the scalar field triggers a rapid collapse of the Einstein-Rosen bridge at the would-be Cauchy horizon. Finally, we make some observations on the interior of charged dilatonic black holes where the Kasner exponent at the singularity exhibits an attractor mechanism in the low temperature limit.
Remarks on black hole complexity puzzle
Authors: Yoshida Beni
Published: October 2020

Abstract

Recently a certain conceptual puzzle in the AdS/CFT correspondence, concerning the growth of quantum circuit complexity and the wormhole volume, has been identified by Bouland-Fefferman-Vazirani and Susskind. In this note, we propose a resolution of the puzzle and save the quantum Extended Church-Turing thesis by arguing that there is no computational shortcut in measuring the volume due to gravitational backreaction from bulk observers. A certain strengthening of the firewall puzzle from the computational complexity perspective, as well as its potential resolution, is also presented.
The Baire Category of Subsequences and Permutations which preserve Limit Points
Authors: Balcerzak Marek , Leonetti Paolo
Published: October 2020

Let $$\mathcal {I}$$
I
be a meager ideal on $$\mathbf {N}$$
N
. We show that if x is a sequence with values in a separable metric space then the set of subsequences [resp. permutations] of x which preserve the set of $$\mathcal {I}$$
I
-cluster points of x is topologically large if and only if every ordinary limit point of x is also an $$\mathcal {I}$$
I
-cluster point of x. The analogue statement fails for all maximal ideals. This extends the main results in [Topology Appl. 263 (2019), 221–229]. As an application, if x is a sequence with values in a first countable compact space which is $$\mathcal {I}$$
I
-convergent to $$\ell $$
ℓ
, then the set of subsequences [resp. permutations] which are $$\mathcal {I}$$
I
-convergent to $$\ell $$
ℓ
is topologically large if and only if x is convergent to $$\ell $$
ℓ
in the ordinary sense. Analogous results hold for $$\mathcal {I}$$
I
-limit points, provided $$\mathcal {I}$$
I
is an analytic P-ideal.
Influence of drying mode and feed per tooth rate on the fine dust creation in pine and beech sawing on a mini sash gang saw
Authors: Rogoziński Tomasz , Chuchala Daniel , Pędzik Marta , Orlowski Kazimierz A. , Dzurenda Ladislav , Muzinski Tomasz
Published: October 2020

The experimental results of the study focused on the effect of drying processes of modified air drying and warm air-steam mixture drying of pine and beech wood on the size of sawdust particles created in cutting using PRW-15M sash gang saw, are presented in the paper. Particle size analysis of dry sawdust was performed using two methods—sieving method and laser diffraction analysis. The results showed that the drying process did not affect the general particle size distribution of the sawdust, but the content of very fine dust particles in beech wood sawdust is many times higher when the beech wood was dried in the warm air-steam mixture drying process and sawn at a feed per tooth of 0.105 mm.
Chirurgische Therapieoptionen bei spastischen Bewegungsstörungen der Extremitäten
Authors: Bahm Jörg , Hagemann Christian , Becher Thomas , Böttcher Richarda , Dussa Chakravarthy U.
Published: October 2020

Hintergrund

Schäden des 1. Motoneurons führen zu spastischen Lähmungen an den Extremitäten, die bei Kindern und Erwachsenen einschneidende Veränderungen der Bewegungsfähigkeit zur Folge haben und Lebensqualität sowie -teilhabe durch Funktionsverlust und Schmerzen einschränken.

Methode

Auf Grundlage eigener Behandlungserfahrungen in Verbindung mit einer PubMed-Literaturrecherche werden aktuelle Diagnose- und Behandlungsverfahren sowie deren Kombinationen vorgestellt.

Ergebnisse

Prinzipiell stehen Physio- und Ergotherapie mit vereinbarten alltagsrelevanten Therapiezielen, Medikamente (Botulinumtoxin und Baclofen) und Orthetik im Vordergrund. Chirurgische Maßnahmen an Muskeln, Sehnen, Gelenken und Knochen können dem betroffenen Patienten zu verbesserter Beweglichkeit, Wachstumskorrektur und vereinfachter Alltagsbewältigung verhelfen. Die selektive Neurektomie bei fokaler Spastik erlebt derzeit eine Renaissance. Die intrathekale Baclofentherapie kann bei entsprechend hoher Katheterlage auch eine Tonusreduktion an der oberen Extremität erreichen.
Snapshot hyperspectral imaging using wide dilation networks
Authors: Toivonen Mikko E. , Rajani Chang , Klami Arto
Published: October 2020

Hyperspectral (HS) cameras record the spectrum at multiple wavelengths for each pixel in an image, and are used, e.g., for quality control and agricultural remote sensing. We introduce a fast, cost-efficient and mobile method of taking HS images using a regular digital camera equipped with a passive diffraction grating filter, using machine learning for constructing the HS image. The grating distorts the image by effectively mapping the spectral information into spatial dislocations, which we convert into a HS image by a convolutional neural network utilizing novel wide dilation convolutions that accurately model optical properties of diffraction. We demonstrate high-quality HS reconstruction using a model trained on only 271 pairs of diffraction grating and ground truth HS images.
Surgical interventions for external snapping hip syndrome
Authors: Randelli Filippo , Mazzoleni Manuel Giovanni , Fioruzzi Alberto , Giai Via Alessio , Calvisi Vittorio , Ayeni Olufemi Rolland
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Snapping hip is a common clinical condition, characterized by an audible or palpable snap of the hip joint. When the snap is perceived at the lateral side of the hip, this condition is known as external snapping hip or lateral coxa saltans, which is usually asymptomatic. Snapping hip syndrome (SHS) refers to a painful snap, which is more common in athletes who require increased hip range of motion. The aim of this article is to review the most common endoscopic techniques for the treatment of ESHS, as well as their results and limitations.

Methods

This is a review of the current literature of endoscopic surgical procedures and of the results of the treatment of external snapping hip syndrome.

Results

The pathogenesis of SHS is mechanical. The initial treatment attempt is conservative, and usually provides good results. Patients who do not respond to conservative management are candidate for surgery. The endoscopic release of the ilio-tibial band or the endoscopic release of the femoral insertion of the gluteus maximum tendon is the most popular technique.

Conclusion

Endoscopic techniques provide fewer complications compared to open surgery, a lower recurrence rate and good clinical outcomes. More comparative studies with a longer follow-up are required to adequate evaluate the full role of endoscopic techniques in periarticular hip surgery.

Level of evidence

Level V.
A New Class of History–Dependent Evolutionary Variational–Hemivariational Inequalities with Unilateral Constraints
Authors: Migórski Stanisław , Zeng Biao
Published: October 2020

In this paper we study a new abstract evolutionary variational–hemivariational inequality which involves unilateral constraints and history–dependent operators. First, we prove the existence and uniqueness of solution by using a mixed equilibrium formulation with suitable selected functions together with a fixed-point principle for history–dependent operators. Then, we apply the abstract result to show the unique weak solvability to a dynamic viscoelastic frictional contact problem. The contact law involves a unilateral Signorini-type condition for the normal velocity combined with the nonmonotone normal damped response condition while the friction condition is a version of the Coulomb law of dry friction in which the friction bound depends on the accumulated slip.
Pre-therapy serum albumin-to-globulin ratio in patients treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy and radical nephroureterectomy for upper tract urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Pradere Benjamin , D’Andrea David , Schuettfort Victor M. , Foerster Beat , Quhal Fahad , Mori Keiichiro , Abufaraj Mohammad , Margulis Vitaly , Deuker Marine , Briganti Alberto , Muilwijk Tim , Hendricksen Kees , Lotan Yair , Karakiewic Pierre , F.Shariat Shahrokh ,   For the UTUC collaboration
Published: October 2020

Purpose

The accurate selection of patients who are most likely to benefit from neoadjuvant chemotherapy is an important challenge in oncology. Serum AGR has been found to be associated with oncological outcomes in various malignancies. We assessed the association of pre-therapy serum albumin-to-globulin ratio (AGR) with pathologic response and oncological outcomes in patients treated with neoadjuvant platin-based chemotherapy followed by radical nephroureterectomy (RNU) for clinically non-metastatic UTUC.

Methods

We retrospectively included all clinically non-metastatic patients from a multicentric database who had neoadjuvant platin-based chemotherapy and RNU for UTUC. After assessing the pretreatment AGR cut‐off value, we found 1.42 to have the maximum Youden index value. The overall population was therefore divided into two AGR groups using this cut‐off (low, < 1.42 vs high, ≥ 1.42).A logistic regression was performed to measure the association with pathologic response after NAC. Univariable and multivariable Cox regression analyses tested the association of AGR with OS and RFS.

Results

Of 172 patients, 58 (34%) patients had an AGR < 1.42. Median follow-up was 26 (IQR 11–56) months. In logistic regression, low AGR was not associated with pathologic response. On univariable analyses, pre-therapy serum AGR was neither associated with OS HR 1.15 (95% CI 0.77–1.74;p = 0.47) nor RFS HR 1.48 (95% CI 0.98–1.22;p = 0.06). These results remained true regardless of the response to NAC.

Conclusion

Pre-therapy low serum AGR before NAC followed by RNU for clinically high-risk UTUC was not associated with pathological response or long-term oncological outcomes. Biomarkers that can complement clinical factors in UTUC are needed as clinical staging and risk stratification are still suboptimal leading to both over and under treatment despite the availability of effective therapies.
Is the cochlear implant a successful long-term solution for single-sided deaf and asymmetric hearing-impaired patients?
Authors: Speck Iva , Challier Pascal , Wesarg Thomas , Jakob Till Fabian , Aschendorff Antje , Hassepass Frederike , Arndt Susan
Published: October 2020

Purpose

We investigated the long-term results of cochlear implant (CI) recipients with asymmetric hearing loss (AHL) or single-sided deafness (SSD). We focused on wearing behavior, audiometric hearing rehabilitation, and subjective benefits of the CI. CI is expected to improve audiological results, subjective hearing perception, and tinnitus burden.

Methods

Speech recognition in background noise and sound localization were assessed preoperatively and after at least six years of CI experience. Validated questionnaires determined the subjective benefit of CI use and the subjective evaluation of tinnitus.

Results

Over 80% of the included AHL and SSD CI recipients used their CI between 6 and 10 h daily; four subjects with SSD were non-users. Speech recognition in background noise and sound localization improved significantly compared with the unaided preoperative situation. Additionally, CI improved subjective speech intelligibility and spatial hearing impression while reducing tinnitus burden.

Conclusion

Subjects with AHL and SSD benefit from CI, subjectively and audiologically. Cochlear implant is a successful long-term treatment for AHL and SSD.
Prevalence of pigeon rotavirus infections: animal exhibitions as a risk factor for pigeon flocks
Authors: Harzer Maxi , Heenemann Kristin , Sieg Michael , Vahlenkamp Thomas , Freick Markus , Rückner Antje
Published: October 2020

A total of 289 cloacal swabs from pigeons from 29 different breeders in Germany were collected. In addition, samples from pigeons exhibited at shows were collected. The detailed health status of the pigeon flocks was recorded. Samples were analysed for the presence of the recently discovered pigeon rotavirus and pigeon circovirus. Pigeon rotavirus was found in 10.3% and pigeon circoviruses was found in 65.5% of sampled pigeon lofts. The study revealed a strong relationship between the attendance of shows and the occurrence of different clinical signs. The higher prevalence of pigeon rotavirus in exhibited animals indicates that exhibitions are a risk factor for the transmission of this pathogen.
Retention force of polyetheretherketone and cobalt-chrome-molybdenum removable dental prosthesis clasps after artificial aging
Authors: Mayinger Felicitas , Micovic Danka , Schleich Andreas , Roos Malgorzata , Eichberger Marlis , Stawarczyk Bogna
Published: October 2020

Objectives

To examine the retention force of removable dental prosthesis (RDP) clasps made from polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and cobalt-chrome-molybdenum (CoCrMo, control group) after storage in water and artificial aging.

Materials and methods

For each material, 15 Bonwill clasps with retentive buccal and reciprocal lingual arms situated between the second pre- and first molar were manufactured by milling (Dentokeep [PEEKmilled1], NT digital implant technology; breCAM BioHPP Blank [PEEKmilled2], bredent), pressing (BioHPP Granulat for 2 press [PEEKpressed], bredent), or casting (remanium GM 800+ [CoCrMo], Dentaurum); N = 60, n = 15/subgroup. A total of 50 retention force measurements were performed for each specimen per aging level (initial; after storage [30 days, 37 °C] and 10,000 thermal cycles; after storage [60 days, 37 °C] and 20,000 thermal cycles) in a pull-off test. Data were statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA, post hoc Scheffé and mixed models (p < 0.05).

Results

Initial, PEEKpressed (80.2 ± 35.2) and PEEKmilled1 (98.9 ± 40.3) presented the lowest results, while PEEKmilled2 (170.2 ± 51.8) showed the highest values. After artificial aging, the highest retention force was observed for the control group (131.4 ± 56.8). The influence of artificial aging was significantly higher for PEEK-based materials. While PEEKmilled2 and PEEKpressed showed an initial decline in retention force, all other groups presented no impact or an increase in retention force over a repetitive insertion and removal of the clasps.

Conclusions

Within the tested PEEK materials, PEEKmilled2 presented superior results than PEEKpressed. Although CoCrMo showed higher values after artificial aging, all materials exhibited sufficient retention to recommend usage under clinical conditions.

Clinical relevance

As RDPs are still employed for a wide range of indications, esthetic alternatives to conventional CoCrMo clasps are sought.
Transrectus sheath pre-peritoneal (TREPP) procedure versus totally extraperitoneal (TEP) procedure and Lichtenstein technique: a propensity-score-matched analysis in Dutch high-volume regional hospitals
Authors: Zwols T. L. R. , Slagter N. , Veeger N. J. G. M. , Möllers M. J. W. , Hess D. A. , Jutte E. , Brandsma H. T. , Veldman P. H. J. M. , Koning G. G. , Eker H. H. , Pierie J. P. E. N.
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Results of the most commonly used inguinal hernia repair techniques often originate from expert centers or from randomized controlled studies. In this study, we portray daily-practice results of a high-volume, regional surgical group in the Netherlands, comparing TREPP (open (posterior) transrectus sheath pre-peritoneal) with Lichtenstein (open anterior) and TEP (endoscopic (posterior) totally extraperitoneal). We hypothesize that the TREPP shows more favorable outcome compared to the current gold standard procedures: TEP and Lichtenstein.

Methods

Between January 2016 and December 2018, 3285 consecutive patients underwent surgical treatment and were included for analysis. The outcome measures were postoperative pain, recurrence rate and other surgical complications. Propensity-score matching was used to address potential selection bias.

Results

After propensity-score matching, there was no statistically significant difference in postoperative pain in the TREPP group compared to the Lichtenstein group (TREPP 7.3% versus Lichtenstein 6.3%;p = 0.67) nor in TREPP compared to TEP (TREPP 7.4% versus TEP 4.1%;p = 0.064). There was no statistically significant difference in recurrences in the TREPP group compared to Lichtenstein (3.8% vs 2.5%;p = 0.42), nor in the TREPP versus TEP comparison (3.9% vs 2.8%;p = 0.55)

Conclusion

This study compares TREPP with Lichtenstein and TEP in the presence of postoperative pain, recurrences and other adverse outcomes. After propensity-score matching, no statistically significant difference in postoperative pain or recurrences remained between either TREPP compared to Lichtenstein, or TREPP compared to TEP. Based on these results, TREPP, Lichtenstein and TEP showed comparable results in postoperative pain, recurrences and other surgical site complications.
Long-Term Quality of Life Outcomes After Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass—a Comparative Study
Authors: Fiorani Cristina , Coles Sophie R. , Kulendran Myutan , McGlone Emma Rose , Reddy Marcus , Khan Omar A.
Published: October 2020

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG) have been shown to improve metabolic comorbidities as well as quality of life (QoL) in the obese population. The vast majority of previous studies have investigated the metabolic effects of bariatric surgery and there is a dearth of studies examining long-term QoL outcomes post bariatric surgery. The outcomes of 43 patients who underwent bariatric surgery were prospectively assessed, using BAROS questionnaires to quantify QoL and metabolic status pre-operatively, at 1 year and at 8 years. Total weight loss and comorbidity resolution were similar between RYGB and SG. The RYGB cohort experienced greater QoL improvement from baseline and had higher BAROS scores at 8 years. RYGB may provide more substantial and durable long-term benefits as compared to SG.
Damage Analysis in Dual-Phase Steel Using Deep Learning: Transfer from Uniaxial to Biaxial Straining Conditions by Image Data Augmentation
Authors: Medghalchi Setareh , Kusche Carl F. , Karimi Ehsan , Kerzel Ulrich , Korte-Kerzel Sandra
Published: October 2020

Microstructural damage can occur during metal forming, but how and where this happens vary with the local microstructure and strain path. Large-scale analysis of such damage mechanisms is particularly important in advanced steels with a heterogeneous phase distribution.
In our previous work, we demonstrated that deep learning enables a mechanism-based, statistical analysis by classifying many individual damage sites. The aim of this work is to generalize this approach to different stress states, e.g., biaxial instead of uniaxial tension, without manually labeling a large new ground-truth dataset of further micrographs and to thereby assess the changes in damage behavior with respect to stress state. Data augmentation and regularization allow us to directly apply our approach to the new, biaxial loading case. Overall, the network performance could be greatly improved and an analysis of changes in damage behavior, here the martensite crack angle distribution, with stress state can now be performed.
IL-17 Triggers Invasive and Migratory Properties in Human MSCs, while IFNy Favors their Immunosuppressive Capabilities: Implications for the “Licensing” Process
Authors: Du-Rocher Bárbara , Binato Renata , de-Freitas-Junior Julio Cesar Madureira , Corrêa Stephany , Mencalha André Luiz , Morgado-Díaz José Andrés , Abdelhay Eliana
Published: October 2020

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) were first used as a source for cell therapy in 1995; however, despite their versatility and unambiguous demonstration of efficacy and safety in preclinical/phase I studies, the positive effect of MSCs in human phase III studies did not resemble the success obtained in mouse models of disease. This dissonance highlights the need to more thoroughly study the immunobiology of MSCs to make better use of these cells. Thus, we aimed to study the immunobiology of MSCs by using chip array analysis as a method for general screening to obtain a global picture in our model study and found IFNy and IL-17 signaling as the first two “top canonical pathways” involved in MSCs immunomodulation. The role of IFNy in triggering the immunosuppressive properties of MSCs is well recognized by many groups; however, the role of IL-17 in this process remains uncertain. Interestingly, in contrast to IFNy, which actively improved the MSCs-mediated immunosuppression, IL-17 did not improve directly the MSCs-mediated immunosuppression. Instead, IL-17 signaling induced the migration of MSCs and inflammatory cells, bringing these cell types together and increasing the likelihood of the lymphocytes sensing the immunosuppressive molecules produced by the MSCs. These effects also correlated with high levels of cytokine/chemokine production and metalloprotease activation by MSCs. Importantly, this treatment maintained the MSCs safety profile by not inducing the expression of molecules related to antigen presentation. In this way, our findings highlight the possibility of using IL-17, in combination with IFNy, to prime MSCs for cell therapy to improve their biological properties and thus their therapeutic efficacy. Finally, the use of preactivated MSCs may also minimize variations among MSCs to produce more uniform therapeutic products. In the not-so-distant future, we envisage a portfolio of MSCs activated by different cocktails specifically designed to target and treat specific diseases.
An Optimized Mouse Brain Atlas for Automated Mapping and Quantification of Neuronal Activity Using iDISCO+ and Light Sheet Fluorescence Microscopy
Authors: Perens Johanna , Salinas Casper Gravesen , Skytte Jacob Lercke , Roostalu Urmas , Dahl Anders Bjorholm , Dyrby Tim B. , Wichern Franziska , Barkholt Pernille , Vrang Niels , Jelsing Jacob , Hecksher-Sørensen Jacob
Published: October 2020

In recent years, the combination of whole-brain immunolabelling, light sheet fluorescence microscopy (LSFM) and subsequent registration of data with a common reference atlas, has enabled 3D visualization and quantification of fluorescent markers or tracers in the adult mouse brain. Today, the common coordinate framework version 3 developed by the Allen’s Institute of Brain Science (AIBS CCFv3), is widely used as the standard brain atlas for registration of LSFM data. However, the AIBS CCFv3 is based on histological processing and imaging modalities different from those used for LSFM imaging and consequently, the data differ in both tissue contrast and morphology. To improve the accuracy and speed by which LSFM-imaged whole-brain data can be registered and quantified, we have created an optimized digital mouse brain atlas based on immunolabelled and solvent-cleared brains. Compared to the AIBS CCFv3 atlas, our atlas resulted in faster and more accurate mapping of neuronal activity as measured by c-Fos expression, especially in the hindbrain. We further demonstrated utility of the LSFM atlas by comparing whole-brain quantitative changes in c-Fos expression following acute administration of semaglutide in lean and diet-induced obese mice. In combination with an improved algorithm for c-Fos detection, the LSFM atlas enables unbiased and computationally efficient characterization of drug effects on whole-brain neuronal activity patterns. In conclusion, we established an optimized reference atlas for more precise mapping of fluorescent markers, including c-Fos, in mouse brains processed for LSFM.
Removal of chromium from synthetic wastewater by adsorption onto Ethiopian low-cost Odaracha adsorbent
Authors: Birhanu Yohanis , Leta Seyoum , Adam Getachew
Published: October 2020

Nowadays, Cr-loaded wastewater released from industrial activities pose an increasing risk to human health and the environment. Adsorption processes have been widely used for the removal of chromium from the waste stream. In this regard, natural adsorbents are the most preferable and cost-effective methods. In this study, the efficiency of Odaracha adsorbent as a novel green technology in the removal of chromium from synthetic wastewater is analyzed. Batch adsorption experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of contact time, pH, adsorbent dose, and initial concentration of adsorbate on Cr removal. The surface morphology of Odaracha adsorbent was characterized by scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray powder diffraction. Experimental results showed that Odaracha adsorbent could perform effectively in a wide range of experimental conditions. However, in optimum experimental conditions, such as 180-min contact time, pH 3, and 15 g/L of adsorbent dose Odaracha adsorbent removes 94.68% of Cr from an aqueous solution having 110 mg/L of Cr concentration.
Research on Subhealth Diagnosis Method for Resistance of Urban Rail Transit Door System
Authors: Wei Sulai , Xu Zhixing , Chen Jianfei , Shi Xiang
Published: October 2020

The rail vehicle door system is one of the key components of rail vehicles. Its failure rate accounts for more than 30% of vehicle failures. By analyzing early warnings provided by subhealth data from the door system, the efficiency and reliability of their health maintenance can be effectively improved and stable operation of the door system can also be guaranteed. In this paper, early-stage resistance changes in the subhealth state of rail vehicle door systems are considered as the research object. Firstly, the distribution rules for the motor parameters are studied, and the time-domain and normal operating envelope features of the operating motor are extracted. Secondly, subhealth conditions with different resistances are simulated using a test rig, and the experimental data are applied to summarize the rules. According to the subhealth types and the distribution of features, diagnostic rules for subhealth are formulated. To check the possibility of fault diagnosis, a verification using running rail vehicle door system data is carried out in MATLAB. The results reveal that the misdiagnosis rate of resistance subhealth is 0% while the rate of missed diagnoses is 2%. Meanwhile, the diagnostic process based on the established rules is relatively efficient. This method is suitable for application for resistance subhealth diagnosis of urban rail vehicle door systems.
Regression, Progression and Renewal: The Continuous Redevelopment of Expertise in Police Use of Force Coaching
Authors: Staller Mario S. , Körner Swen
Published: October 2020

Professionalism in law enforcement requires the identification and development of expertise of police use of force (PUOF) coaches. Effective PUOF training includes the transfer from the training into the real-world environment of policing. This difference between working in the field and working as a PUOF coach has not been thoroughly investigated. However, research in other professional domains has shown that practical competence in the subject matter itself does not make a coach effective or successful. With this article, we conceptualize expert practice in PUOF instruction on the basis of a conflict management training setting in the security domain. First, by discussing a model of “territories of expertise”, we point out the dynamic and contextual character of expertise within the PUOF domain. Second, by conceptualizing expertise as a process and effect of communication, we provide a framework that describes and examines the interdependency between performance-based and reputation-based expertise. These considerations present two practical challenges, which we recommend professional law enforcement institutions to engage. We close by providing practical orientations and pointers for addressing these issues.
Real-Time Assessment of the Burden on the Community of Informal Caregivers. A Pilot Study
Authors: Pettini Anna
Published: October 2020

Good mental health is a critical part of individual well-being, and one of the cornerstones of community well-being. This paper focuses on the community of parents of young psychiatric patients, whose well-being loss is significant because of the enormous burden of suffering that results from their children’s illness. This burden is seldom considered by the ordinary calculations of the costs of mental illness. We suggest that digital daily diaries (DDDs) with instant reporting can become a powerful tool to estimate the intangible costs of mental illness, namely the loss of well-being suffered by the community of informal caregivers. A pilot study was carried out to test the validity of the digital tool. The results of instant reports provide accurate information and are consistent with those obtained through other traditional survey methods. The digital data-gathering tool can be extended to design an affordable, prompt, and cost-effective possible solution for policy-oriented interventions. Besides, this digital tool can easily be extended to collect real-time big data and to use them in conjunction with Artificial Intelligence (AI) to give professionals a powerful tool to face a relevant community issue.
Have the Characteristics for Success as a Surgeon Changed? A Century of Perspective Through the American College of Surgeons
Authors: Young Katelyn A. , Lee Samantha M. , Adams Matthew D. , Buonpane Christie L. , Hayek Sarah A. , Shabahang Mohsen M. , Rogers David A.
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND:

The Presidential Address of the American College of Surgeons (ACS) is an influential platform during the convocation for new Fellows every year. Recent work reported that most ACS presidents primarily discuss personal characteristics for success; however, these qualities were never specified. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the personal characteristics that are espoused in ACS presidential addresses as essential for success as a surgeon.

STUDY DESIGN:

Thematic analysis was completed for every ACS presidential address (98 addresses between 1913 and 2019). Full-text addresses were reviewed (2 team members), personal characteristics were coded (1 team member) and then assembled into patterns and themes (3 team-members' consensus). A temporal frame was adopted in grouping these themes in that personal qualities that appeared consistently throughout this period were classified as Enduring Characteristics and those that emerged only in later years were classified as Recent Characteristics.

RESULTS:

Enduring Characteristics that were present throughout the century included sincere compassion for patients; integrity; engagement (willingness to help shape the changing field at the institutional or national level); and commitment to lifelong learning. Recent Characteristics included humility and the interpersonal attributes of inclusivity and the ability to be a collaborative team leader.

CONCLUSIONS:

Surgery has experienced countless paradigm shifts since 1913, and the perceived characteristics for success have similarly evolved to include more interpersonal abilities. The importance of sincere compassion for patients, integrity, engagement, and commitment to lifelong learning remained consistent for more than a century.
Dexamethasone Improves Wound Healing by Decreased Inflammation and Increased Vasculogenesis in Mouse Skin Frostbite Model
Authors: Tu Huiyin , Zhang Dongze , Barksdale Aaron N. , Wadman Michael C. , Muelleman Robert L. , Li Yu-Long
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Frostbite is thought to result from initial vasoconstriction, ischemia, intracellular ice crystal formation, and inflammation caused by reperfusion injury. Corticosteroids have demonstrated beneficial anti-inflammatory effects in the treatment of other ischemia/reperfusion clinical conditions. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of dexamethasone (dex) on wound healing, inflammatory response, and vasculogenesis in a mouse skin frostbite model.

Methods

Treatment and control groups of C57/BL6 mice were subjected to frostbite using a previously described model. Treatment with intraperitoneal dex (1 mg·kg-1·d-1) began on the day of frostbite induction and lasted for 7 d. Over 4 wk, we compared wound diameter; morphology by visual inspection, hematoxylin–eosin staining, and Masson’s trichrome staining; density of inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNFα using Western blot analysis; and formation of microvasculature using immunofluorescence staining. Data were analyzed using 1-way or 1-way repeated-measures analysis of variance.

Results

After frostbite injury, morphological images demonstrated epidermal necrosis and loss in the frostbitten skin as well as infiltration of inflammation-related leukocytes. Increased production of inflammatory cytokines and disappearance of the microvasculature also occurred in the frostbitten skin. In comparison to the control group, treatment with dex promoted wound healing as demonstrated by decreased wound diameter; decreased levels of inflammatory cytokines, and accelerated formation of mature microvasculature.

Conclusions

In this animal model, dex improved wound healing in frostbitten skin and demonstrated both anti-inflammatory effects and stimulation of vasculogenesis. This study suggests that the use of potent anti-inflammatory agents may be an effective strategy for mitigating frostbite injury.
Divine Aggression in Psalms and Inscriptions
Authors: Cornell Collin
Published: October 2020

The aggression of the biblical God named Yhwh is notorious. Students of theology, the Bible, and the Ancient Near East know that the Hebrew Bible describes Yhwh acting destructively against his client country, Israel, and against its kings. But is Yhwh uniquely vengeful, or was he just one among other, similarly ferocious patron gods? To answer this question, Collin Cornell compares royal biblical psalms with memorial inscriptions. He finds that the Bible shares deep theological and literary commonalities with comparable texts from Israel's ancient neighbours. The centrepiece of both traditions is the intense mutual loyalty of gods and kings. In the event that the king's monument and legacy comes to harm, gods avenge their individual royal protégé. In the face of political inexpedience, kings honour their individual divine benefactor.
From One Stress Test to Another: Lessons for Healthcare Reform from the Financial Sector
Authors: KEMPENEER Shirley
Published: October 2020

The financial crisis in 2008 and the COVID-19 pandemic today have made it clear that both financial and medical crises spread pervasively across borders. The financial crisis proved that the health of the entire European banking system stands and falls with the health of a single systemically important bank. As such, in the past decade, European Union (EU)-wide cooperation and regulation have been strengthened to ensure financial health across Europe. Today, the COVID-19 crisis reveals the de facto existence of a European healthcare system, where Member States’ medical health is interlinked and challenged. It too highlights the need for a more coordinated approach. This paper will draw lessons from European financial regulation and stress testing to make recommendations for EU-wide healthcare. The paper will show the latent benefits that a stress test might have on healthcare performance through mechanisms of governmentality. Moreover, it will pinpoint shortcomings in the financial stress test that could pose looming dangers for a European Health Union, such as a lack of de facto risk sharing. The paper concludes with pragmatic suggestions for a way forward in European healthcare regulation.