bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on respiratory morbidity during infancy: A birth‐cohort study
Authors: Rosenfeld Nataly , Mandelberg Avigdor , Dalal Ilan , Tasher Diana , Kamar Alma , Schnapper Michael , Armoni Domany Keren
Published: January 2022

Objective

To evaluate the incidence of wheezing and overall respiratory morbidity in healthy infants born during the first peak of the coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic, compared with infants born during the preceding year.

Methods

This was a single‐center retrospective birth cohort study to compare a cohort of children born between February and March 2020 (COVID‐19 group) to a control group of children born between February and March 2019 (pre‐COVID‐19 group). At 1 year of age, we collected respiratory data using parental and telephone questionnaires. Primary outcome: wheezing incidence and/or bronchodilator use. Secondary outcomes: recurrent wheezing, emergency‐room visits, hospital admissions, pneumonia diagnosis, and admissions due to lower‐respiratory‐tract‐infections (LRTI). We included the following covariate risk factors in the logistic regression models; atopy, daycare attendance, breastmilk feeding, parental smoking, C‐section, siblings, and gestational age.

Results

We enrolled 588 infants, 294 in each group (48% males). Demographic, perinatal, and atopic characteristics were similar between the groups. Compared to the pre‐COVID‐19 group, infants born during the COVID‐19 period were significantly less likely to report wheezing and/or bronchodilator use (adjusted‐odds ratio [OR], 0.4; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.28–0.59), systemic steroid use, (adjusted‐OR, 0.47; 95% CI 0.24–0.91), emergency‐room visits (adjusted‐OR, 0.36; 95% CI 0.17–0.72), LRTI admissions (adjusted‐OR, 0.2; 95% CI 0.05–0.74), or pneumonia diagnosis (adjusted‐OR, 0.22; 95% CI 0.09–0.53).

Conclusions

This study investigated wheezing and respiratory morbidity over the first year of the COVID‐19 pandemic in infants born during the first peak of COVID‐19. The study demonstrated a significant decrease in most aspects of respiratory morbidity. A longitudinal follow‐up study to explore the subsequent impact of these findings is warranted.
Measurement of lung oxygenation by near‐infrared spectroscopy in preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome: A proof‐of‐concept study
Authors: Dani Carlo , Ciarcià Martina , Miselli Francesca , Luzzati Michele , Petrolini Chiara , Corsini Iuri , Simone Pratesi
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Noninvasive markers more accurate than FiO2 would be useful to assess the severity of RDS and guide its treatment. Our aim was to assess for the first time the possibility of continuously monitoring lung oxygenation (rSO2L) by near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and to evaluate whether rSO2L correlates with other oxygenation indices and RDS severity.

Methods

We carried out this proof‐of‐concept study on 20 preterm infants with RDS requiring noninvasive respiratory support. Patients were continuously studied for 24 h by NIRS and rSO2L was correlated with SpO2/FiO2 ratio, a/APO2, and O.I.

Results

The overall value of rSO2L was 80.1 ± 6.2%, without significant differences between the right and left hemithorax (80.2 ± 6.7 vs. 80.0 ± 5.7%; p = 0.869). Mean values of total, right, and left rSO2L did not significantly change during the 24‐h study period. Linear regression analysis demonstrated a significant positive relationship between total rSO2L and SpO2/FiO2 ratio (p < 0.001) and a/APO2 (p = 0.040), and a negative relationship between total rSO2L and O.I. (r = −0.309; p = 0.022).

Conclusions

Continuous monitoring of rSO2L by NIRS in preterm infants with RDS is feasible and safe. The correlation of rSO2L with other indices of oxygenation and RDS severity supports the accuracy and reliability of this measurement.
Quantitative Environmental Assessment of Explosive Residues from the Detonation of Insensitive High Explosive Filled 155 mm Artillery Shell
Authors: Persico Federica , Temple Tracey , Ladyman Melissa , Gilroy‐Hirst William , Guiterrez‐Carazo Encina , Coulon Frederic
Published: January 2022

Insensitive High‐Explosive (IHE) typically comprises up to five constituents including 2,4‐dinitroanisole (DNAN), 3‐nitro‐1,2,4‐triazol‐5‐one (NTO), and 1,3,5‐trinitroperhydro‐1,3,5‐triazine (RDX), which are mixed in various ratios to achieve desired performance and increase insensitivity. Insensitive munitions, which are designed to detonate on command and not accidentally, are currently in use in military operations and training areas around the world. However, there is minimal literature available on the physiochemical behavior of these materials in the environment, therefore the actual consequence of residues being deposited post‐detonation is still an unexplored area of research. Three 155 mm artillery shells filled with an IHE mixture of 53 % NTO, 32 % DNAN, and 15 % RDX were detonated in an inert sand arena to collect and quantify residues. Post detonation, approximately 0.02 % NTO, and 0.07 % DNAN were deposited in the environment which may rapidly accumulate dependent on the number of rounds fired. This is of concern due to the toxicity of DNAN and its degradation products, and the potential for increased acidity of soil and discoloration of watercourses from NTO contamination.
Improvement in High Temperature‐Resistant Performance and Waterproof Property of Combustible Cartridge Case with BEMS Resin Based Composite Coating
Authors: Zhang Bin , Fu Enfa , Shi Haiyue , Zhang Xiang , Xiao Zhenggang
Published: January 2022

Combustible cartridge case (CCC) is an important charge component which is very suitable for the weapon systems that need light load. It is a kind of nitrocellulose‐based porous material which has a low ignition temperature and strong hygroscopicity. Thus, if the surface of the CCC is not protected very well when it is used in modern weapon with faster fire rate, it will be easy to self‐ignite in the high‐temperature gun barrel and absorb moisture in a high‐humidity environment. These problems will worsen both the safety of gun operators and the combustion performance of CCC. However, they are not solved well by current research and industrial practice. Herein, we designed a new composite coating which can improve both the high temperature‐resistant performance at a higher temperature and waterproof property of CCC. The boron nitride (BN) and epoxy resin were used to modify silicone resin. The BN and epoxy modified silicone (BEMS) resin, inorganic adiabatic fillers and other additives were mixed together to prepare a BEMS resin based composite coating solution, and then the solution was sprayed on the surface of the combustible cartridge case to form a protective coating. The chemical structure of BEMS resin was investigated by FTIR. The thermal stability of coating films was analyzed by TGA. The high temperature‐resistant performance, water contact angle on the surface and waterproof property of the coated CCC were analyzed by muffle furnace experiment, water contact angle tester and immersion test, respectively. Results show that boron nitride and epoxy resin were successfully grafted on silicone resin chains. Compared with control samples, the thermal decomposition rate of the prepared coating films is significantly reduced. The coated CCC will keep 108.8 seconds while not burning at 230 °C. The heat resistant time increased by 16.74 % at 230 °C. The water contact angle on the surface of the coated CCC can reach 105.71° which was improved by 67.01°. After being soaked for one hour, the water absorption of the coated CCC is reduced by 96 % in distilled water and by 99 % in 3.5 wt % of sodium chloride solution. Compared with most present coatings, the new BEMS resin based composite coating which we designed can improve both the high temperature‐resistant performance and waterproof property of the CCC significantly and effectively. It provided a new way for study on the protective coating of CCC.
Chinese oak silkworm Antherae pernyi egg, a suitable factitious host for rearing eupelmid egg parasitoids
Authors: Chen Yong‐Ming , Iqbal Asim , Lv Rui‐E , Wang Xingeng , Desneux Nicolas , Zang Lian‐Sheng
Published: January 2022

BACKGROUND

Eupelmid egg parasitoids in the genera Anastatus and Mesocomys are important biological control agents for lepidopterous and hemipterous pests worldwide. The egg of Chinese oak silkworm Antheraea pernyi has been widely used for mass rearing of Trichogramma parasitoids. This study evaluated the suitability and optimal use methods of A. pernyi egg as a factitious host for the rearing of six eupelmid egg parasitoids (Anastatus fulloi, Anastatus gansuensis, Anastatus japonicus, Anastatus meilingensis, Mesocomys albitarsis and Mesocomys trabalae). Each parasitoid was tested for its oviposition preference and offspring performance on various differently treated host eggs (extracted from virgin moths or laid naturally by virgin or mated moths, and washed or unwashed prior to the use) in both no‐choice and choice tests.

RESULTS

All treated A. pernyi eggs were readily parasitized by the six parasitoids. In general, A. gansuensis and M. trabalae preferred washed over unwashed eggs regardless of the fertilization status of host eggs, A. fulloi and A. meilingensis parasitized more unfertilized than fertilized host eggs, and A. japonicus and M. albitarsis did not show a preference among differently treated host eggs. Host egg treatment did not significantly affect offspring fitness (development time, survival, sex ratio and body size) nor reproductive potential of developed adult females for each parasitoid species, except for M. albitarsis (whose females contained more eggs when reared from unfertilized than fertilized host eggs).

CONCLUSION

Results suggest that manually extracted, unfertilized and washed A. pernyi eggs are most suitable for mass rearing of these eupelmid egg parasitoids in biological control programs.
Photo‐Induced Tellurium Segregation in MoTe2
Authors: Fukuda Takumi , Kaburauchi Ryota , Saito Yuta , Makino Kotaro , Fons Paul , Ueno Keiji , Hase Muneaki
Published: January 2022

Herein, coherent phonon spectroscopy of polymorphic single crystals using a femtosecond‐pulsed laser is used to investigate the relationship between structural phase transitions and photo‐thermal effects induced by high‐density laser excitation. Even when a femtosecond‐pulsed laser is used, which generally induces fewer heat accumulation effects than the case for a continuous‐wave (CW) laser, tellurium segregation is observed in coherent phonon spectra with increasing excitation density, while no structural phase transition among the polymorphs of is observed. The use of higher photon‐energy excitation, however, is found to suppress tellurium segregation.
The effects of Silymarin on the features of cardiometabolic syndrome in adults: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Soleymani Samaneh , Ayati Mohammad Hossein , Mansourzadeh Mohammad Javad , Namazi Nazli , Zargaran Arman
Published: January 2022

Some medicinal herbs and their effective components showed positive effects on the features of the cardiometabolic syndrome (CMS). The aim of the present systematic review and meta‐analysis is to examine the effects of silymarin on the components of CMS in adults. Four electronic databases including PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase were systematically searched up to December 31, 2020 to identify all eligible clinical trials. A random‐effect model using DerSimonian and Laird method was used to estimate the pooled weighted mean differences (WMDs) and the 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs). Finally, 11 clinical trials met the eligibility criteria. Our results demonstrated that silymarin significantly reduced the levels of fasting blood glucose (WMD: −17.96 mg/dL, 95% CI: −32.91, −3.02;I2: 82.4%, p < 0.001), hemoglobin A1C (WMD: −1.25%, 95% CI: −2.34, 0.16; I2: 92.9%, p ˂ 0.001), total cholesterol (WMD: −17.46 mg/dL, 95% CI: −30.98, −3.95; I2 = 62.9%, p = 0.006), triglyceride (WMD: −25.70 mg/dL, 95% CI: −47.23, −4.17; I2:54.3%, p = 0.025), low‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol (WMD: ‐10.53, 95% CI: −19.12, −1.94; I2: 37.5%, p = 0.119) and increased high‐density lipoprotein‐ cholesterol (WMD: 3.36 mg/dL, 95% CI: 0.88, 5.84; I2: 37.4%, p = 0.120) compared to placebo. However, its effects on BMI were not statistically significant. Silymarin can be an effective complementary therapy to improve most features of CMS. However, due to high heterogeneity and limited clinical trials in some parameters, further high‐quality clinical trials are needed to confirm its efficacy.
Practical path planning techniques in overtaking for autonomous shuttles
Authors: Malayjerdi Ehsan , Sell Raivo , Malayjerdi Mohsen , Udal Andres , Bellone Mauro
Published: January 2022

This paper proposes a reliable optimized sigmoid‐based path planning algorithm that ensures smooth, fast and safe overtaking maneuver, while maintaining the necessary safety distance. In the proposed method, the desired smoothness of trajectories, the changes in steering angle and the lateral acceleration are controlled in a robust way. This paper describes the simulations, and the confirming real‐world experiments, conducted using the autonomous shuttle iseAuto. Our results suggest that the sigmoid A‐star algorithm leads to a smoother and more reliable motion when compared to other two standard methods. Specifically, the abruptness of necessary steering angle changes is reduced by factor of 4, and approaching the level of an experienced driver‐like maneuver.
Targeting Neuroblastoma by Limonoids from the Underutilized Fruits of Xylocarpus granatum
Authors: Munipalle Kiran , Kommalapati Vamsi Krishna , Patel Hemendra Kumar , Olanipekun Bolatito Eunice , Tangutur Anjana Devi , Ponnapalli Mangala Gowri
Published: January 2022

Chemical examination of the chloroform extract of the underutilized fruits of Xylocarpus granatum led to the isolation and identification of limonoids (3‐12) along with photogedunin C‐23 epimers. These compounds were characterized by means of spectroscopic data analysis and evaluated for their antiproliferation activity against a panel of four mammalian cancer cell lines; MIAPaCa‐2 (pancreatic), IMR‐32 (neuroblastoma), HeLa (cervical), and MCF‐7 (breast cancer) employing sulphorhodamine B assay. Among the evaluated compounds, photogedunin epimers exhibited moderate anticancer activity and inhibited the proliferation of neuroblastoma IMR‐32 cells. These epimers arrested cell cycle progression in the G2/M phase and also increased the sub G1 population. Furthermore, these epimers caused reactive oxygen species production, and cleavage of poly‐ADP‐Ribose polymerase (PARP), the crucial marker of apoptosis. These results demonstrated the molecular mechanism behind the antiproliferative effects of photogedunin epimers derived from the underutilized fruits of Xylocarpus granatum from the mangrove forest on IMR‐32 cells, indicating that these may be beneficial for the treatment of neuroblastoma.
Interaction of Ciprofloxacin with Arabinose, Glucosamine, Glucuronic Acid and Rhamnose: Insights from Genetic Algorithm and Quantum Chemistry
Authors: Coba‐Jiménez Ludis , Maza Julio , Guerra Mayamarú , Deluque‐Gómez Julio , Cubillán Néstor
Published: January 2022

A theoretical study of the ciprofloxacin interactions with glucuronic acid, arabinose, glucosamine, and rhamnose is presented. The most stable complexes were obtained through genetic algorithms starting from the neutral and zwitterion species of ciprofloxacin. The energy at the semiempirical level PM7 of the optimal structures of the complexes was the genetic algorithm‘s fitness function. The resulting complexes’ geometry was optimized at M062X−D3/6‐311++G** level of theory, and non‐covalent interactions were assessed through the reduced density gradient and quantum theory of atoms in molecules. The results show that the zwitterion species of ciprofloxacin favorably complex carbohydrates and can induce proton exchange between them. The molecular complexes from proton exchange are the most stable, followed by the complexes formed by the contact of the zwitterion species and the carbohydrate. The complexes formed by both neutral species were the least stable. The medium strength and strong (assisted by charge) hydrogen bonds, the XH⋅⋅⋅π and lone‐pair⋅⋅π interactions, were mainly present in the complexes. Proton exchange processes strengthen the interactions mentioned above.
New α‐Imido‐β‐diarylphosphorylpropanoates and their Complexes with Gadolinium(III)
Authors: Il'in Anton V. , Serov Nikita Yu. , Khannanov Arthur A. , Solodov Alexander N. , Islamov Daut R.
Published: January 2022

A practical route is described for the preparation of α‐imido‐β‐diarylphosphorylpropanoates based on the phosphine‐catalyzed α‐umpolung/β‐Michael addition reaction. One of the products has been tested for coordination the Gd3+ cation using NMR relaxation method in solution and by IR spectroscopy to solids. The exact structures of two isomers of the obtained complex have been determined by single crystal analysis. The structures of all isomers were investigated by quantum‐chemical calculations in solution. Quantum‐chemical calculations results show the presence of stereoselective effect in solution: the trans‐isomer with two ligands having different chirality is energetically more favorable. The cis‐isomer with ligands of different chirality is the least advantageous in terms of energy and therefore presents in solution in small amounts. The cis‐ and trans‐isomers with two ligands of the same chirality are very close in energy but are somewhat inferior to the most stable isomer.
Ultrasound estimation of fetal weight accuracy in a regional hospital: A retrospective audit
Authors: Spurway Jacqueline , Filce Casey , Luscombe Georgina
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Ultrasound estimated fetal weight (EFW) is a vital part of prenatal care. We aimed to determine the accuracy of sonographic EFW at a regional Australian hospital, explore factors associated with EFW accuracy and review accuracy calculation methods.

Methods

Ultrasound EFW (Hadlock C) was calculated within one week of a live delivery, for 357 singleton pregnancies. EFW accuracy, the difference between EFW, and live birthweight (LBW), were quantified using percentage error (PE); absolute error (AE); ‘signed’ error and AE ≤10% of LBW.

Results

Estimations of accuracy varied by calculation method, with PE smaller (mean 2.3% [CI 1.5, 3.1], median PE 2.4% [IQR −3.4, 6.7]) than AE (mean 6.4% [CI 5.9, 6.9], median AE 5.1% [IQR 2.7, 9.0]). Signed error indicated the majority of EFWs were overestimates and 80.1% of EFW calculations had an AE within 10% of LBW. EFW inaccuracy (AE ≥10% of LBW) varied between sonographers (p = .023) and scan to delivery interval (p = .003).

Conclusions

EFW accuracy rates at the regional hospital were similar to published error rates. EFW accuracy varied with sonographer and with time from scan to delivery. Absolute error provides more useful and comparable information than percentage error of EFW.
Calcination Condition of Dolomite‐Based Materials Influencing Static Dissolution in Synthetic Electric Arc Furnace Slag
Authors: Lesiak Stefanie , Cheremisina Elizaveta , Rieger Johannes , Schenk Johannes , Firsbach Felix , Johnson William , Chopin Thierry , Nispel Michael
Published: January 2022

The addition of basic additives in steelmaking processes is essential because these lead to slag adaptation and enable refining reactions. In calcination treatment, the process parameters temperature and dwell time influence the decomposition of dolomite as a magnesium‐containing lime substitute. It results in specific properties such as varying residual fractions of carbonates CaCO3·MgCO3 and porosity. The properties affect the dissolution kinetics, and the fast and complete dissolution is of interest. Hence, the static high‐temperature dissolution tests using dolomite‐based samples in diverse conditions (raw, modified, soft‐burnt, and hard‐burnt) are executed to determine the impact of the calcination state. The specimens are immersed in synthetic electric arc furnace slag, including 10 wt% Al2O3, 25 wt% SiO2, 25 wt% CaO, 8 wt% MnO, and 32 wt% FeO. The dolomite or dolime dissolves in the stagnant oxidic melt within the reaction time of 10 min at 1450 °C. The resulting chemistries of quenched slags, representing the current dissolution status, are examined by scanning electron microscopy using energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy analysis on metallographically prepared cross‐sections and via X‐ray fluorescence analysis of mechanically extracted slag fractions. The dissolution performance is characterized and compared for the different additive materials.
Silver Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles: Fabrication to Combination Therapies for Cancer and Infection
Authors: He Xuan , Chen Fangman , Chang Zhimin , Waqar Kasim , Hu Hanze , Zheng Xiao , Wang Yingshuai , Dong Wen‐fei , Yang Chao
Published: January 2022

The integration of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) with mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) protects the former from aggregation and promotes the controlled release of silver ions, resulting in therapeutic significance on cancer and infection. The unique size, shape, pore structure and silver distribution of silver mesoporous silica nanoparticles (Ag‐MSNs) embellish them with the potential to perform combined imaging and therapeutic actions via modulating optical and drug release properties. Here, we comprehensively review the recent progress in the fabrication and application of Ag‐MSNs for combination therapies for cancer and infection. We first elaborate on the fabrication of star‐shaped structure, core‐shell structure, and Janus structure Ag‐MSNs. We then highlight Ag‐MSNs as a multifunctional nanoplatform to surface‐enhanced Raman scattering‐based detection, non‐photo‐based cancer theranostics and photo‐based cancer theranostics. In addition, we detail Ag‐MSNs for combined antibacterial therapy via drug delivery and phototherapy. Overall, we summarize the challenges and future perspectives of Ag‐MSNs that make them promising for diagnosis and therapy of cancer and infection.
Deliberative democracy and the climate crisis
Authors: Willis Rebecca , Curato Nicole , Smith Graham
Published: January 2022

No democratic state has yet implemented a climate plan strong enough to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement. This has led some to argue that democracy cannot cope with a challenge of this magnitude. In this article, we take stock of the claim that a more deliberative democratic system can strengthen our ability to respond effectively to the climate crisis. The most visible development in this direction is the recent citizens’ assemblies on climate change in Ireland, France, and the UK. We begin our analysis of the promise of deliberative democracy with a recognition of the difficulties that democracies face in tackling climate change, including short‐termism; the ways in which scientific and expert evidence are used; the influence of powerful political interests; and the relationship between people and the politicians that represent them. We then introduce the theoretical tradition of deliberative democracy and examine how it might ameliorate the challenges democracies face in responding to the climate crisis. We evaluate the contribution of deliberative mini‐publics, such as citizens’ assemblies and juries, and look beyond these formal processes to examine how deliberation can be embedded in political and social systems around the world. We conclude that deliberation‐based reforms to democratic systems, including but not limited to deliberative mini‐publics, are a necessary and potentially transformative ingredient in climate action.

This article is categorized under:

Perceptions, Behavior, and Communication of Climate Change > Communication

Policy and Governance > Governing Climate Change in Communities, Cities, and Regions
What is attention? Adverbialist theories
Authors: Mole Christopher , Henry Aaron
Published: January 2022

This article presents theories of attention that attempt to derive their answer to the question of what attention is from their answers to the question of what it is for some activity to be done attentively. Such theories provide a distinctive account of the difficulties that are faced by the attempt to locate processes in the brain by which the phenomena of attention can be explained. Their account does not share the pessimism of theories suggesting that the concept of attention is defective. Instead it reconstrues the explanatory relationship between attention and the processes that constitute it, in a way that is illustrated here by considering the relationship between attention and the processes that are identified by the biased competition theory. After considering some of the ways in which an adverbialist approach might be developed, the article concludes by suggesting some possible solutions to a problem concerning distraction, by which prominent adverbialist theories of attention have been dogged.

This article is categorized under:

Psychology > Attention

Philosophy > Metaphysics

Philosophy > Foundations of Cognitive Science
A hopeless pursuit? National efforts to promote small modular nuclear reactors and revive nuclear power
Authors: Thomas Stephen , Ramana M. V.
Published: January 2022

Nuclear power plant construction has historically been challenged by problems of high cost, cost escalation, and construction delays. The newest set of large reactor projects have also been overbudget and overtime. This has prompted interest in new reactor technologies that proponents claim would not suffer these problems, specifically small modular reactors (SMRs), a class that encompasses a wide range of technologies. This article examines national efforts in three countries, Canada, the UK, and the United States, which are pursuing SMRs vigorously and where the government has funded their development generously. We compare the different strategies and foci of these national strategies, analyzing the various forms of support offered by the separate agencies of the government, and the private companies that are trying to develop SMRs. We also offer an overview of the different types of reactor technologies being pursued in these different countries. Following these, we outline the main challenge confronting SMR technologies: their ability to generate electricity in an economically competitive manner, highlighting the problems resulting from economies of scale being lost. By examining the experience so far, we find that even designs based on well‐tested technology cannot be deployed till after 2030 and the more radical designs might never be.

This article is categorized under:

Policy and Economics > Research and Development

Policy and Economics > Regional and International Strategies

Energy and Power Systems > Energy Infrastructure
Adsorptive decontamination of doxycycline hydrochloride via Prosopis juliflora activated carbon: Parameter optimization and disposal study
Authors: Kaur Gurleenjot , Singh Neetu , Rajor Anita
Published: January 2022

This study deals with the removal of doxycycline hydrochloride (DOX) antibiotic, from aqueous environment by using Prosopis juliflora activated carbon (PJAC). PJAC was synthesized by chemical activation and pyrolysis of Prosopis juliflora. It was characterized by employing Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscope‐energy dispersive X‐ray analysis (SEM–EDX), X‐ray diffraction analysis (XRD), and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) techniques. The specific surface area, pore volume, and pore diameter were evaluated as 320.45 m2/g, 0.176 cm3/g, and 2.65 nm, respectively. Different functional groups (O–H, C–O, C=C, C–N, and C–C) present on PJAC promoted the adsorption of DOX. The influence of various adsorption parameters suggested by central composite design (CCD) model was determined using response surface methodology (RSM), and interactive effects of these were optimized. The thermodynamic and kinetic studies performed at optimized conditions, exhibited that adsorption was spontaneous and endothermic. The experimental data were well described with Langmuir, Redlich–Peterson, and Freundlich isotherm models while kinetics data were well described by pseudo second order. The excellent interactions between the PJAC and DOX resulted maximum adsorption capacity as 57.11 mg/g. The adsorption mechanisms was dominated by
‐
interactions and hydrogen bonding. Moreover, almost complete encapsulation of DOX was achieved by stabilization of exhausted PJAC.

Practitioner Points

A wild harmful plant Prosopis juliflora was used to synthesize a low‐cost and eco‐friendly bio‐sorbent PJAC.

Adsorptive ability of PJAC was quantified for adsorption of DOX antibiotic from its aqueous solution.

DOX uptake on PJAC was mainly governed by л‐л EDA interactions and hydrogen bonding.
Recent Developments in Japan’s International Peace Cooperation Under the Second Abe Government 2012–2020
Authors: Fujishige Hiromi Nagata , Uesugi Yuji , Honda Tomoaki
Published: January 2022

This chapter will consider the noteworthy changes in Japan’s peacekeeping policy under the second Abe administration (2012–2020), with special emphasis on the period between 2013 and 2017. Since its outset in the early 1990s, Japan’s peacekeeping policy had been gradually shaped by the trends of “integration” and the “robustness” in United Nations Peacekeeping Operations (UNPKOs), but various problems remained unsolved, especially in terms of “robustness.” With the return of Prime Minister Abe at the end of 2012, reforms to follow the trend of “robustness” were carried out as part of his all-inclusive renovation of Japan’s security policy, namely the Peace and Security Legislation, to resolve numerous long-standing problems in the field. With this in mind, this chapter starts by considering new developments in Japan’s security policy as a whole before examining how these sweeping reforms transformed the quality of Japan’s peacekeeping, paying special attention to the newly added roles, such as the “coming-to-aid” duty. This chapter will also trace moves toward “integration,” especially regarding the “All Japan” approach.
Cambodia: Japan’s First UNPKO Contribution
Authors: Fujishige Hiromi Nagata , Uesugi Yuji , Honda Tomoaki
Published: January 2022

Participation in the United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia from 1992 to 1993 was the landmark case in the history of Japan’s peacekeeping policy as the first military contribution based on the Peacekeeping Operations (PKO) Act, established in June 1992. However, lingering hostility in the field seriously troubled the deployment because it generated various problems, such as a serious gap between official policy and actual situation on the ground. The contradictions led to the shocking loss of two Japanese personnel on duty. Harsh reality of Cambodia generated the Self-Defense Forces’ (SDF’s) informal adaptation of “robustness”—that is, de facto patrols—in the absence of formal legal authority. These bitter experiences sowed the seeds of the Government of Japan (GoJ) eventual pursuit of “robustness” 23 years later by the second Abe administration as part of the 2015 Peace and Security Legislation. The experience in Cambodia also led to the development of “integration” in Japan’s peacekeeping efforts, especially in terms of direct Japan Engineering Groups (JEG) support to local community through civil construction works. The local people appreciated both the JEG’s skills and their friendly attitude. This was a successful experience not only for the JEG, but also for the GoJ, which was laying the foundation for Japan’s pursuit of greater “integration.”
East Timor: Adapting to “Integration” and Responding to “Robustness”
Authors: Fujishige Hiromi Nagata , Uesugi Yuji , Honda Tomoaki
Published: January 2022

In this chapter, we will examine the Self-Defense Forces’ (SDF’s) participation in the UN missions in East Timor, or Timor-Leste in Portuguese. Here we pay special heed to the Japanese peacekeepers’ activities in the United Nations Transitional Administration in East Timor and the United Nations Mission of Support in East Timor from the early to mid-2000s. These United Nations Peacekeeping Operations (UNPKOs) aimed to support independence and statebuilding in East Timor by combining peacekeeping and peacebuilding. Similar to the case of Cambodia, the Japanese delegation put the greatest emphasis on engineering, which was a good fit with the goals of these UNPKOs. In East Timor, the Japan Engineering Groups engaged in civil engineering works, not only to support the UN missions but also as direct bilateral assistance to local residents in close collaboration with Japan’s ODA (the “All Japan” approach). Meanwhile, the strict constraints in the Peacekeeping Operations (PKO) Act were highlighted again, especially in terms of the protection of Japanese nationals, when the SDF rescued Japanese citizens during a 2002 riot. In addition to military deployment, civilian police personnel also contributed to the United Nations Mission in East Timor in preparation for the referendum on independence in 1999. Similar contributions were made to resume statebuilding assistance to the United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste after the recurrence of violence in 2006.
Haiti: The Development of “Seamless” Assistance from Disaster Relief to UNPKOs
Authors: Fujishige Hiromi Nagata , Uesugi Yuji , Honda Tomoaki
Published: January 2022

In this chapter, we will examine Japan’s response to a complex crisis in Haiti, in which a natural disaster and civil unrest were compounded. Persistent insecurity and confusion in Haiti, albeit under the presence of an ongoing United Nations Peacekeeping Operation (UNPKO), further deteriorated after the great earthquake in 2010. This challenge unexpectedly propelled Japan’s move toward closer “integration,” since several layers of civil-military cooperation rapidly developed to cope with the complicated emergency in post-earthquake Haiti. First, the Government of Japan (GoJ) deployed a civilian medical team and the Self-Defense Forces (SDF) emergency medical assistance unit (hereafter, the SDF medical unit) under the Japan Disaster Relief (JDR) Act. Following the SDF medical unit’s JDR work, the Japanese Red Cross Society (JRCS) carried on with medical assistance. Second, once emergency medical support ended, an SDF contingent was dispatched under the Peacekeeping Operations (PKO) Act. The Japan Engineering Groups’ (JEG’s) engagement in reconstruction served as a useful opportunity for the GoJ to refine the “All Japan” approach, further encouraging Japan’s inclination toward “integration.” Meanwhile, the experience in Haiti shed light on the gap in the legal assumptions between the JDR Act and the PKO Act, since neither of them anticipated the protection of civil JDR teams in insecurity.
Measuring neutrino dynamics in NMSSM with a right-handed sneutrino LSP at the ILC
Authors: Liu Yi , Moretti Stefano , Waltari Harri
Published: January 2022

Abstract

We study the possibility of measuring neutrino Yukawa couplings in the Next-to-Minimal Supersymmetric Standard Model with right-handed neutrinos (NMSSMr) when the lightest right-handed sneutrino is the Dark Matter (DM) candidate, by exploiting a ‘dijet + dilepton + Missing Transverse Energy’ (MET or "Image missing") signature. We show that, contrary to the miminal realisation of Supersymmetry (SUSY), the MSSM, wherein the DM candidate is typically a much heavier (fermionic) neutralino state, this extended model of SUSY offers one with a much lighter (bosonic) state as DM that can then be produced at the next generation of e+e− colliders with energies up to 500 GeV or so. The ensuing signal, energing from chargino pair production and subsequent decay, is extremely pure so it also affords one with the possibility of extracting the Yukawa parameters of the (s)neutrino sector. Altogether, our results serve the purpose of motivating searches for light DM signals at such machines, where the DM candidate can have a mass around the Electro-Weak (EW) scale.
Likelihood analysis of the flavour anomalies and g – 2 in the general two Higgs doublet model
Authors: Athron Peter , Balazs Csaba , Gonzalo Tomás E. , Jacob Douglas , Mahmoudi Farvah , Sierra Cristian
Published: January 2022

Abstract

We present a likelihood analysis of the general two Higgs doublet model, using the most important currently measured flavour observables, in view of the anomalies in charged current tree-level and neutral current one-loop rare decays of B mesons in b → cl$$ \overline{\nu} $$

ν
¯

and b → sμ+μ− transitions, respectively. We corroborate that the model explains the latter and it is able to simultaneously fit the experimental values of the R(D) charged current ratio at 1σ, but it can not accommodate the D* charmed meson observables R(D*) and FL(D*). We find that the fitted values for the angular observables in b → sμ+μ− transitions exhibit better agreement with the general two Higgs double model in comparison to the SM. We also make predictions for future collider observables BR(t → ch), BR(h → bs), BR(h → τμ), BR(Bs → τ+τ−), BR(B+ → K+τ+τ−) and the flavour violating decays of the τ lepton, BR(τ → 3μ) and BR(τ → μγ). The model predicts values of BR(t → ch), BR(Bs → τ+τ−) and BR(B+ → K+τ+τ−) that are out of reach of future experiments, but its predictions for BR(h → bs) and BR(h → τμ) are within the future sensitivity of the HL-LHC or the ILC. We also find that the predictions for the τ → 3μ and τ → μγ decays are well within the projected limits of the Belle II experiment. Finally, using the latest measurement of the Fermilab Muon g − 2 Collaboration, we performed a simultaneous fit to ∆aμ constrained by the charged anomalies, finding solutions at the 1σ level. Once the neutral anomalies are included, however, a simultaneous explanation is unfeasible.
General bounds on holographic complexity
Authors: Engelhardt Netta , Folkestad Åsmund
Published: January 2022

Abstract

We prove a positive volume theorem for asymptotically AdS spacetimes: the maximal volume slice has nonnegative vacuum-subtracted volume, and the vacuum-subtracted volume vanishes if and only if the spacetime is identically pure AdS. Under the Complexity=Volume proposal, this constitutes a positive holographic complexity theorem. The result features a number of parallels with the positive energy theorem, including the assumption of an energy condition that excludes false vacuum decay (the AdS weak energy condition). Our proof is rigorously established in broad generality in four bulk dimensions, and we provide strong evidence in favor of a generalization to arbitrary dimensions. Our techniques also yield a holographic proof of Lloyd’s bound for a class of bulk spacetimes. We further establish a partial rigidity result for wormholes: wormholes with a given throat size are more complex than AdS-Schwarzschild with the same throat size.
Towards the black hole uniqueness: transverse deformations of the extremal Reissner-Nordström-(A)dS horizon
Authors: Kolanowski Maciej
Published: January 2022

Abstract

We study all transverse deformations of the extremal Reissner-Nordström–(A)dS horizon in the Einstein-Maxwell theory. No symmetry assumptions are needed. It is shown, that for the generic values of a charge, the only allowed deformation is spherically symmetric. However, it is shown that for fine-tuned values of the charge, the space of deformations is larger, yet still finite-dimensional.
Hankel, Toeplitz, and Hermitian-Toeplitz Determinants for Certain Close-to-convex Functions
Authors: Allu Vasudevarao , Lecko Adam , Thomas Derek K.
Published: January 2022

Let f be analytic in $$\mathbb {D}=\{z\in \mathbb {C}:|z|<1\}$$

D
=
{
z
∈
C
:
|
z
|
<
1
}

, and be given by $$f(z)=z+\sum _{n=2}^{\infty }a_{n}z^{n}$$

f

(
z
)

=
z
+

∑

n
=
2

∞

a
n

z
n

. We give sharp bounds for the second Hankel determinant, some Toeplitz, and some Hermitian-Toeplitz determinants of functions in the class of Ozaki close-to-convex functions, together with a sharp bound for the Zalcman functional $$J_{2,3}(f).$$

J

2
,
3

(
f
)

.
The Canonical Module of GT-Varieties and the Normal Bundle of RL-Varieties
Authors: Colarte-Gómez Liena , Miró-Roig Rosa M.
Published: January 2022

In this paper, we study the geometry of GT-varieties $$X_{d}$$

X
d

with group a finite cyclic group $$\Gamma \subset {{\,\mathrm{GL}\,}}(n+1,\mathbb {K})$$

Γ
⊂

GL

(
n
+
1
,
K
)

of order d. We prove that the homogeneous ideal $${{\,\mathrm{I}\,}}(X_{d})$$

I

(

X
d

)

of $$X_{d}$$

X
d

is generated by binomials of degree at most 3 and we provide examples reaching this bound. We give a combinatorial description of the canonical module of the homogeneous coordinate ring of $$X_{d}$$

X
d

and we show that it is generated by monomial invariants of $$\Gamma $$
Γ
of degree d and 2d. This allows us to characterize the Castelnuovo–Mumford regularity of the homogeneous coordinate ring of $$X_d$$

X
d

. Finally, we compute the cohomology table of the normal bundle of the so-called RL-varieties. They are projections of the Veronese variety $$\nu _{d}(\mathbb {P}^{n}) \subset \mathbb {P}^{\left( {\begin{array}{c}n+d\\ n\end{array}}\right) -1}$$

ν
d

(

P

n

)

⊂

P

n
+
d

n

-
1

which naturally arise from level GT-varieties.
Allogeneic platelet-derived growth factors local injection in treatment of tennis elbow: a prospective randomized controlled study
Authors: Kandil Mahmoud Ibrahim , Ahmed Abdel-Salam Abdel-Aleem , Eldesouky Rasha Shaker , Eltregy Sherif
Published: January 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of local injection of allogeneic platelet-derived growth factors in treatment of patients with tennis elbow.

Patients and methods

This study included 120 tennis elbow patients randomly divided into two groups. The patients were locally injected with allogeneic growth factors (treatment group) or with normal saline (control group). The outcomes were assessed using Patient-Related Tennis Elbow Evaluation (PRTEE) and quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (qDASH) scales. The clinical outcomes were accordingly classified as excellent, good and poor. The patient’s satisfaction and adverse effects were also recorded.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups regarding the age, gender, dominant arm or the pre-injection scores. At three month follow-up, the reductions in the mean PRTEE and qDASH scores were 88.7% and 70.6% in the treatment group versus 21.8% and 14.9% in the control group, respectively. At the last follow-up, the outcomes in the treatment group were excellent in 85% of patients and good in 15%, versus 8% and 32% in the control group. Overall, 95% were satisfied in the treatment group compared to 25% in control group. Forty patients in the treatment group experienced mild transient post-injection pain.

Conclusion

This study strongly suggests that local injection of allogeneic platelet-derived growth factors could be a promising safe treatment option for tennis elbow with significant pain relief, functional improvement and patient’s satisfaction. Yet, additional larger studies are needed to assess the durability of these outcomes.
Fine mapping with epigenetic information and 3D structure
Authors: Orozco Gisela
Published: January 2022

Since 2005, thousands of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have been published, identifying hundreds of thousands of genetic variants that increase risk of complex traits such as autoimmune diseases. This wealth of data has the potential to improve patient care, through personalized medicine and the identification of novel drug targets. However, the potential of GWAS for clinical translation has not been fully achieved yet, due to the fact that the functional interpretation of risk variants and the identification of causal variants and genes are challenging. The past decade has seen the development of great advances that are facilitating the overcoming of these limitations, by utilizing a plethora of genomics and epigenomics tools to map and characterize regulatory elements and chromatin interactions, which can be used to fine map GWAS loci, and advance our understanding of the biological mechanisms that cause disease.
Variants in CDH23 cause a broad spectrum of hearing loss: from non-syndromic to syndromic hearing loss as well as from congenital to age-related hearing loss
Authors: Usami Shin-ichi , Isaka Yuichi , Miyagawa Maiko , Nishio Shin-ya
Published: January 2022

Variants in the CDH23 gene are known to be responsible for both syndromic hearing loss (Usher syndrome type ID: USH1D) and non-syndromic hearing loss (DFNB12). Our series of studies demonstrated that CDH23 variants cause a broad range of phenotypes of non-syndromic hearing loss (DFNB12); from congenital profound hearing loss to late-onset high-frequency-involved progressive hearing loss. In this study, based on the genetic and clinical data from more than 10,000 patients, the mutational spectrum, clinical characteristics and genotype/phenotype correlations were evaluated. The present results reconfirmed that the variants in CDH23 are an important cause of non-syndromic sensorineural hearing loss. In addition, we showed that the mutational spectrum in the Japanese population, which is probably representative of the East Asian population in general, as well as frequent CDH23 variants that might be due to some founder effects. The present study demonstrated CDH23 variants cause a broad range of phenotypes, from non-syndromic to syndromic hearing loss as well as from congenital to age-related hearing loss. Genotype (variant combinations) and phenotype (association with retinal pigmentosa, onset age) are shown to be well correlated and are thought to be related to the residual function defined by the CDH23 variants.
Ensemble deep learning for the prediction of proficiency at a virtual simulator for robot-assisted surgery
Authors: Moglia Andrea , Morelli Luca , D’Ischia Roberto , Fatucchi Lorenzo Maria , Pucci Valentina , Berchiolli Raffaella , Ferrari Mauro , Cuschieri Alfred
Published: January 2022

Background

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to enhance patient safety in surgery, and all its aspects, including education and training, will derive considerable benefit from AI. In the present study, deep-learning models were used to predict the rates of proficiency acquisition in robot-assisted surgery (RAS), thereby providing surgical programs directors information on the levels of the innate ability of trainees to facilitate the implementation of flexible personalized training.

Methods

176 medical students, without prior experience with surgical simulators, were trained to reach proficiency in five tasks on a virtual simulator for RAS. Ensemble deep neural networks (DNN) models were developed and compared with other ensemble AI algorithms, i.e., random forests and gradient boosted regression trees (GBRT).

Results

DNN models achieved a higher accuracy than random forests and GBRT in predicting time to proficiency, 0.84 vs. 0.70 and 0.77, respectively (Peg board 2), 0.83 vs. 0.79 and 0.78 (Ring walk 2), 0.81 vs 0.81 and 0.80 (Match board 1), 0.79 vs. 0.75 and 0.71 (Ring and rail 2), and 0.87 vs. 0.86 and 0.84 (Thread the rings 2). Ensemble DNN models outperformed random forests and GBRT in predicting number of attempts to proficiency, with an accuracy of 0.87 vs. 0.86 and 0.83, respectively (Peg board 2), 0.89 vs. 0.88 and 0.89 (Ring walk 2), 0.91 vs. 0.89 and 0.89 (Match board 1), 0.89 vs. 0.87 and 0.83 (Ring and rail 2), and 0.96 vs. 0.94 and 0.94 (Thread the rings 2).

Conclusions

Ensemble DNN models can identify at an early stage the acquisition rates of surgical technical proficiency of trainees and identify those struggling to reach the required expected proficiency level.