bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication of Crystalline Si Thin Films for Photovoltaics
Authors: An Junyang , Shen Ya , Roca i Cabarrocas Pere , Chen Wanghua
Published: September 2022

Crystalline Si (c‐Si) thin films have been widely studied for their application to solar cells and flexible electronics. However, their application at large scale is limited by their fabrication process. As reviewed in this paper, many approaches have been studied, but only some of them have been made into large‐scale industrial production. The standard wire sawing of Si ingots cannot be scaled down to produce thin c‐Si wafers and films due to the brittle nature of c‐Si material, the resulting significant thickness variations, and the waste of material. Therefore, techniques based on the kerf‐less processes including “top‐down” and “bottom‐up” approaches have been developed in recent decades. In this review, photovoltaic applications of thin c‐Si wafers with thicknesses ranging from 50 μm down to 1 μm are presented first. Then, methods to fabricate c‐Si thin films based on both approaches are detailed, including slim‐cut, “smart‐cut,” epi‐free, as well as various growth processes such as molecular beam epitaxy, liquid phase epitaxy, ion beam, and chemical vapor deposition processes at a wide range of growth temperatures, from 1000 °C down to 150 °C. The advantages and disadvantages of these methods are presented and compared.
Origins and history of autoimmunity—A brief review
Authors: Ahsan Haseeb
Published: September 2022

It was not widely recognized, until the 1950s, that an immune response could be developed not only against “foreign” but also “self” antigens from the studies of chronic thyroiditis leading to the acceptance of autoimmune diseases. Paul Ehrlich coined the term “horror autotoxicus” to emphasize the pathogenesis of autoimmunity and how the immune system distinguishes “foreign” from “self”. The process led to the concept of immune tolerance. The discoveries of allergy and anaphylaxis were the first signs that the immune system was capable of self‐damage. The first autoantibodies were discovered in the 1940s, when antinuclear antibodies and rheumatoid factors were described as serum factors that could bind nuclear antigens and immunoglobulins, respectively. It has now becoming increasingly understandable that autoantibodies play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of several diseases and mediate systemic inflammation and tissue injury. The purpose of this review article is to elucidate, explain, and emphasize the origins and history of autoimmunity.
Performance‐guaranteed containment control for pure‐feedback multi agent systems via reinforcement learning algorithm
Authors: Luo Ao , Xiao Wenbin , Li Xiao‐Meng , Yao Deyin , Zhou Qi
Published: September 2022

In this article, a performance‐guaranteed containment control scheme based on reinforcement learning (RL) algorithm is proposed for a class of pure‐feedback multi agent systems (MASs) with unmeasurable states. The unknown nonlinear functions are approximated by the neural networks (NNs) and an adaptive NN state observer is designed for the states estimation. Based on estimated states, the algebraic loop problem can be removed by introducing filtered signals, and the actor‐critic architecture of RL algorithm is employed to acquire the optimal controller in the framework of backstepping. Different from many optimal strategies, this article proposes a simpler mechanism based on the uniqueness of the optimal solution to obtain the actor and critic updating laws instead of gradient descent algorithm with complicated calculation. In addition, predefined performance function and an improved error transformation technique are utilized to guarantee the containment error within a prescribed boundary. By using Lyapunov stability theory and graph theory, the stability of the closed‐loop system can be demonstrated. Finally, the effectiveness of the method proposed in this article is verified by a simulation example.
Regional analysis of the sustainable development of two Mediterranean countries: Spain and Italy
Authors: Puertas Rosa , Marti Luisa
Published: September 2022

The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) require the implementation of 167 targets aimed at eradicating poverty, protecting the planet and improving the quality of life of humankind. The United Nations calls for uniform sustainable development at the global, local and individual levels. This research pursues a twofold objective: first, to obtain evidence on the extent to which the achievement of the (SDGs) may be uniform across territories; second, to identify the socioeconomic characteristics that contribute to sustainable development. The empirical analysis has been carried out using clustering, cross efficiency and contingency tables applied to statistical information from 101 municipalities in Spain and Italy. The results provide evidence of inequalities between territories, revealing that only in the dimensions People (SDGs 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5) and Prosperity (SDGs 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11) has the desired homogeneity been attained. Notable differences are found in the degree of compliance with the other SDGs. Furthermore, it is shown that the socioeconomic characteristics associated with the geographical location contribute substantially to the gap between municipalities. In order to ensure countries' sustainable development, there is a need for environmental policies adapted to the specific features of each region.
Long‐Cycling All‐Solid‐State Batteries Achieved by 2D Interface between Prelithiated Aluminum Foil Anode and Sulfide Electrolyte
Authors: Fan Zengjie , Ding Bing , Li Zhiwei , Hu Ben , Xu Chong , Xu Chengyang , Dou Hui , Zhang Xiaogang
Published: September 2022

All‐solid‐state batteries (ASSBs) with alloy anodes are expected to achieve high energy density and safety. However, the stability of alloy anodes is largely impeded by their large volume changes during cycling and poor interfacial stability against solid‐state electrolytes. Here, a mechanically prelithiation aluminum foil (MP‐Al‐H) is used as an anode to construct high‐performance ASSBs with sulfide electrolyte. The dense Li–Al layer of the MP‐Al‐H foil acts as a prelithiated anode and forms a 2D interface with sulfide electrolyte, while the unlithiated Al layer acts as a tightly bound current collector and ensures the structural integrity of the electrode. Remarkably, the MP‐Al‐H anode exhibits superior lithium conduction kinetics and stable interfacial compatibility with Li6PS5Cl (LPSCl) and Li10GeP2S12 electrolytes. Consequently, the symmetrical cells using LPSCl electrolyte can work at a high current density of 7.5 mA cm−2 and endure for over 1500 h at 1 mA cm−2. Notably, ≈100% capacity is retained for the MP‐Al‐H||LPSCl||LiCoO2 full cell with high area loadings of 18 mg cm−2 after 300 cycles. This work offers a pathway to improve the interfacial and performance issues for the application of ASSBs.
An essay on ready‐ing: Tending the prelude to change
Authors: Bateson Nora
Published: September 2022

Complexity of living systems is characterized by multicontextual, constant responsive change. This creates continuation of some patterns and discontinuation of others. While change is predictably constant, it is unpredictable in direction and often occurs at second and nth orders of systemic relationality. So what makes a living system ready to change? This is a theory of change that changes a theory of change. Before the change there is a coalescence of factors and experiences that produce a undeterminable ready‐ing instead of action. What if, instead thinking of a theory of change being produced from an identified preferred goal or outcome, the focus instead was placed on the way in which a system becomes ready for undetermined change? Can unforeseen ready‐ness be nourished? While linear managing or controlling of the direction of change may appear desirable, tending to how the system becomes ready allows for pathways of possibility previously unimagined.
Emergence of the resistance‐nodulation‐division efflux pump tmexCD3‐toprJ3 gene confers resistance to tigecycline in Pseudomonas juntendi and Proteus terrae isolated from a pig farm in China
Authors: Yang Jie , Zeng Ziyue , Hu Jufang , Liu Zhihong , Gu Jinrong , Chen Xiaojun , Sun Zhiliang , Li Jiyun
Published: September 2022

Background

Tigecycline is regarded as a last‐resort antimicrobial agent against multidrug resistance (MDR). However, resistance‐nodulation‐division efflux pump resistance genes, such as tmexCD3‐toprJ3, that confer resistance to tigecycline have emerged.

Objectives

This study aimed to characterise the tmexCD3‐toprJ3 gene cluster in Pseudomonas juntendi and Proteus terrae isolated from a pig farm.

Methods

Samples were obtained from a Chinese piggery and included 92 pig faecal samples, 56 wastewater samples, 23 drinking water samples, 28 sow vagina samples and nine sow uterus swabs. The presence of tmexCD3‐toprJ3 was detected using a polymerase chain reaction assay, and the antimicrobial susceptibility profile of the tmexCD3‐toprJ3‐positive isolates was determined using the broth dilution method. Genomic locations were identified using whole‐genome sequencing and bioinformatics.

Results

We identified two tmexCD3‐toprJ3‐positive isolates, and both isolates were highly resistant to antibiotics such as tigecycline. In addition, we identified several mobile elements (ISPa7, ISCfr1, ISVsa3) and insertion sequences (TnAs2, TnAs3) in tmexCD3‐toprJ3‐positive isolates that could increase the potential for the spread of MDR.

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to report the detection of tmexCD3‐toprJ3 in P. juntendi and P. terrae isolated from a pig farm.
Resources recovery—Separation and recovery of copper from desalination brine through Lewatit TP 207 resin
Authors: Lee Cheng‐Han , Chen Wei‐Sheng
Published: September 2022

Because of freshwater scarcity caused by extreme climate change, desalination technique has been developed in many countries to acquire freshwater. However, desalination plants worldwide not only produce freshwater but also generate large amounts of high salinity wastewater (brine). Brine discharge will decrease the concentration of dissolved oxygen in seawater and affect the organism's habitat. The only merit of the brine is that the concentrations of valuable metals in brine are higher than in seawater. Therefore, it is an opportunity to recover metals from brine and solve the environmental problem simultaneously. This study then aims to recover copper from brine through the ion exchange method. The research could be divided into three parts. To begin with, the saturated adsorption capacity of copper through Lewatit TP 207 resin was 30.58 mg/g, and the adsorption behavior was in accord with the Langmuir model. The optimal parameters of copper adsorption through the resin would be surveyed in the second part. The results demonstrated that 16.1 mg/l of copper could be adsorbed from brine under contacting period of 16 min, pH 14, L/S ratio of 2000, and temperature at 328 K. In addition, the thermodynamic parameters would also be explored to realize how the adsorption reaction was processed. Lastly, different agents and desorption parameters would be investigated to separate the copper from the resin. The copper compound and the resin could be obtained and regenerated after desorption.

Practitioner Points

Reusing desalination brine could reduce its amount of discharge and increase its value.

A 16.1 mg/l of copper could be adsorbed from desalination brine through the Lewatit TP 207 system.

The optimal parameters are contacting period of 16 min, pH 14, L/S ratio of 2000, and temperature at 328 K.

After adsorbing, copper could be desorbed by HCl, and copper chloride could be acquired by vacuum drying the solutions.

This is a method with the goal of laboratory‐safe, low‐cost, and high‐energy efficiency.
Enhanced flavour profiles through radicicol induced genomic variation in the lager yeasts, Saccharomyces pastorianus
Authors: de la Cerda Garcia‐Caro Roberto , Thompson Georgia , Zhang Penghan , Hokamp Karsten , Roche Fiona , Carlin Silvia , Vrhovsek Urska , Bond Ursula
Published: September 2022

The yeasts, Saccharomyces pastorianus, are hybrids of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Saccharomyces eubayanus and have acquired traits from the combined parental genomes such as ability to ferment a range of sugars at low temperatures and to produce aromatic flavour compounds, allowing for the production of lager beers with crisp, clean flavours. The polyploid strains are sterile and have reached an evolutionary bottleneck for genetic variation. Here we describe an accelerated evolution approach to obtain lager yeasts with enhanced flavour profiles. As the relative expression of orthologous alleles is a significant contributor to the transcriptome during fermentation, we aimed to induce genetic variation by altering the S. cerevisiae to S. eubayanus chromosome ratio. Aneuploidy was induced through the temporary inhibition of the cell's stress response and strains with increased production of aromatic amino acids via the Shikimate pathway were selected by resistance to amino acid analogues. Genomic changes such as gross chromosomal rearrangements, chromosome loss and chromosome gain were detected in the characterised mutants, as were single‐nucleotide polymorphisms in ARO4, encoding for DAHP synthase, the catalytic enzyme in the first step of the Shikimate pathway. Transcriptome analysis confirmed the upregulation of genes encoding enzymes in the Ehrlich pathway and the concomitant increase in the production of higher alcohols and esters such as 2‐phenylethanol, 2‐phenylethyl acetate, tryptophol, and tyrosol. We propose that the polyploid nature of S. pastorianus genomes is an advantageous trait supporting opportunities for genetic alteration in otherwise sterile strains.
Minimal model of Chiral Higher Spin Gravity
Authors: Sharapov Alexey , Skvortsov Evgeny , Sukhanov Arseny , Van Dongen Richard
Published: September 2022

Abstract

A unique class of local Higher Spin Gravities with propagating massless fields in 4d — Chiral Higher Spin Gravity — was first found in the light-cone gauge. We construct a covariant form of the corresponding field equations in all orders, thus completing the previous analysis of arXiv:2204.10285. This result is equivalent to taking the minimal model (in the sense of L∞-algebras) of the jet-space BV-BRST formulation of Chiral Higher Spin Gravity, thereby, containing also information about counterterms, anomalies, etc.
A comment on a fine-grained description of evaporating black holes with baby universes
Authors: Iizuka Norihiro , Miyata Akihiro , Ugajin Tomonori
Published: September 2022

Abstract

We study a partially fine-grained description of an evaporating black hole by introducing an open baby universe with a boundary. Since the Page’s calculation of the entropy of Hawking radiation involves an ensemble average over a class of states, one can formally obtain a fine-grained state by purifying this setup. For AdS black holes with a holographic dual, this purification amounts to introducing an additional boundary (i.e., baby universe) and then connecting it to the original black hole through an Einstein-Rosen bridge. We uncover several details of this setup. As applications, we briefly discuss how this baby universe modifies the semi-classical gravitational Gauss law as well as the gravitational dressing of operators behind the horizon.
Flatland: abelian extensions of the Standard Model with semi-simple completions
Authors: Davighi Joe , Tooby-Smith Joseph
Published: September 2022

Abstract

We parametrise the space of all possible flavour non-universal $$ \mathfrak{u} $$
u
(1)X extensions of the Standard Model that embed inside anomaly-free semi-simple gauge theories, including up to three right-handed neutrinos. More generally, we parametrise all abelian extensions (i.e. by any number of $$ \mathfrak{u} $$
u
(1)’s) of the SM with such semi-simple completions. The resulting space of abelian extensions is a collection of planes of dimensions ≤ 6. Numerically, we find that roughly 2.5% of anomaly-free $$ \mathfrak{u} $$
u
(1)X extensions of the SM with a maximum charge ratio of ±10 can be embedded in such semi-simple gauge theories. Any vector-like anomaly-free abelian extension embeds (at least) inside $$ \mathfrak{g} $$
g
= $$ \mathfrak{su} $$
su
(12) ⊕ $$ \mathfrak{su} $$
su
(2)L ⊕ $$ \mathfrak{su} $$
su
(2)R. We also provide a simple computer program that tests whether a given $$ \mathfrak{u}{(1)}_{X^1} $$
u

1

X
1

⊕ $$ \mathfrak{u}{(1)}_{X^2} $$
u

1

X
2

⊕ . . . charge assignment has a semi-simple completion and, if it does, outputs a set of maximal gauge algebras in which the $$ \mathfrak{sm} $$
sm
⊕ $$ \mathfrak{u}{(1)}_{X^1} $$
u

1

X
1

⊕ $$ \mathfrak{u}{(1)}_{X^2} $$
u

1

X
2

⊕ . . . model may be embedded. We hope this is a useful tool in pointing the way from $$ \mathfrak{sm} $$
sm
⊕ $$ \mathfrak{u}{(1)}_{X^1} $$
u

1

X
1

⊕ $$ \mathfrak{u}{(1)}_{X^2} $$
u

1

X
2

⊕ . . . models, which have many phenomenological uses, to their unified gauge completions in the ultraviolet.
Impact of the Dresden-II and COHERENT neutrino scattering data on neutrino electromagnetic properties and electroweak physics
Authors: Atzori Corona M. , Cadeddu M. , Cargioli N. , Dordei F. , Giunti C. , Li Y. F. , Ternes C. A. , Zhang Y. Y.
Published: September 2022

Abstract

Coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering (CEνNS) represents a powerful tool to investigate key electroweak physics parameters and neutrino properties since its first observation in 2017 by the COHERENT experiment exploiting the spallation neutron source at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. In light of the recent detection of such a process with antineutrinos produced by the Dresden-II reactor scattering off a germanium detector, we revisit the limits so far set on the neutrino magnetic moments, charge radii and millicharges as well as on the weak mixing angle. In order to do so, we also include the contribution of elastic neutrino-electron scattering, whose effect becomes non negligible in some beyond the Standard Model theories. By using different hypotheses for the germanium quenching factor and the reactor antineutrino flux, we provide a measurement of the weak mixing angle at the low-energy scale of the Dresden-II reactor experiment and, thanks to a combined analysis with the latest cesium iodide and argon data set released by the COHERENT Collaboration, we deliver updated limits for the neutrino electromagnetic properties. Interestingly, we are able to set a new best upper limit on the electron neutrino charge radius and significantly improve the other CEνNS-related limits on the neutrino electric charge and magnetic moment.
Instabilität des Kniegelenks – medial oder anteromedial?
Authors: Abermann Elisabeth , Herbst E. , Herbort M. , Smigielski R. , Fink C.
Published: September 2022

Hintergrund

Verletzungen des medialen Bandkomplexes gehören zu den häufigsten Knieverletzungen. Sie heilen zwar meist mit konservativer Therapie problemlos aus, persistierende Instabilitäten erhöhen aber die Belastung der Kreuzbänder und benötigen speziell bei deren Beteiligung eine adäquate Therapie.

Anatomie und Biomechanik

Der mediale Seitenbandkomplex besteht im Wesentlichen aus dem oberflächlichen Seitenband (sMCL), welches der primäre Stabilisator gegen Valgus ist, dem tiefen Seitenband (dMCL) mit dessen schräg verlaufendem ventralem Anteil (AML), die nur sekundäre Stabilisatoren gegen Valgus darstellen, aber primär gegen Außenrotation stabilisieren, und dem hinteren Schrägband (POL), das in vollständiger Streckung gegen Valgus sowie gegen Innenrotation stabilisiert.

Therapie

Chronische Instabilitäten bzw. höhergradige Verletzungen mit Dislokation der Bandstümpfe oder multiligamentäre Verletzungen bedürfen einer operativen Versorgung. Im Akutstadium zeigen Avulsionsverletzungen bei anatomischer Refixation gutes Heilungspotenzial, während bei intraligamentären Verletzungen zusätzlich zur Naht der Bandanteile eine Augmentation mit Sehnenmaterial empfohlen wird. Bei chronischen Instabilitäten ist die Differenzierung des Instabilitätsmusters ausschlaggebend für die Wahl der Rekonstruktionstechnik (reine sMCL-Rekonstruktion oder kombinierte Rekonstruktion von sMCL und AML). In beiden Fällen kommt die hier beschriebene Technik mit flachem Transplantat der Anatomie näher als bei konventionellen Verfahren.

Diskussion

Rekonstruktionstechniken unter Verwendung flacher Sehnentransplantate, die alle betroffenen Bandanteile adressieren, haben sich biomechanisch als sehr effektiv erwiesen, komplexe mediale Instabilitäten suffizient zu behandeln. Ob diese auch klinisch überlegen sind, werden zukünftige klinische Studien zeigen müssen.
A new fluid-based strategy for the connection of non-matching lattice materials
Authors: Ferro Nicola , Perotto Simona , Gavazzoni Matteo
Published: September 2022

We present a new algorithm for the design of the connection region between different lattice materials. We solve a Stokes-type topology optimization problem on a narrow morphing region to smoothly connect two different unit cells. The proposed procedure turns out to be effective and provides a local re-design of the materials, leading to a very mild modification of the mechanical behavior characterizing the original lattices. The robustness of the algorithm is assessed in terms of sensitivity of the final layout to different parameters. Both the cases of Cartesian and non-Cartesian morphing regions are successfully investigated.
A portable electrochemiluminescence aptasensor for β-lactoglobulin detection
Authors: Svigelj Rossella , Zuliani Ivan , Dossi Nicolò , Toniolo Rosanna
Published: September 2022

Cow’s milk allergy is one of the most common food allergies in children with a prevalence of around 2.5%. Milk contains several allergens; the main ones are caseins and β-lactoglobulin (β-LG). At regulatory level, β-LG is not explicitly named, but milk is included in the list of substances or products causing allergies or intolerances. Hence, the presence of β-LG can be a useful marker for determining the presence of milk in food. In this work, we present an aptasensor based on electrochemiluminescence (ECL) for the quantification of β-LG in real food matrices displaying integrated advantages consisting of high specificity, good sensitivity, portability, and cost effectiveness. The performance and applicability of this sensor were tested by analyzing a sample of skimmed milk and an oat-based drink proposed as a vegetable substitute for milk of animal origin. We obtained a linear correlation between the intensity of the signal and the concentration of β-LG standard solutions (y = x * 0.00653 + 1.038, R2 = 0.99). The limit of detection (LOD) and the limit of quantification (LOQ) were found to be 1.36 and 4.55 μg L−1, respectively.

Graphical abstract
Symptomatic and asymptomatic carotid near-occlusions have very similar angiographic appearance on CT-angiography
Authors: Kellomäki Elisa , Gu Thomas , Fox Allan J. , Johansson Elias
Published: September 2022

The aim of this study was to compare the angiographic appearance of symptomatic and asymptomatic carotid near-occlusion. We have found no such previous study. The study hypothesis was that among symptomatic patients with ≥ 50% carotid stenosis, near-occlusion is more common and near-occlusions are more severe than among asymptomatic persons with ≥ 50% carotid stenosis. We reassessed consecutive CTAs from 4042 persons, 645 had ≥ 50% carotid stenosis, and 385 (60%) symptomatic. Near-occlusion was similarly common in symptomatic (105, 27%) and asymptomatic (56, 24%) cases. Among near-occlusions, the angiographic appearance was very similar between symptomatic and asymptomatic cases: mean stenosis lumen diameter (0.7 mm), distal ICA diameter (2.1 mm), and ECA ratio (0.79) were the same in both groups. Mean ICA ratio (0.46 and 0.48) and share of full collapse was very similar (45% and 42%). These findings add to the pathophysiological understanding of carotid near-occlusion.
Otoendoscopy in the era of narrow-band imaging: a pictorial review
Authors: Pollastri Federica , Locatello Luca Giovanni , Bruno Chiara , Maggiore Giandomenico , Gallo Oreste , Pecci Rudi , Giannoni Beatrice
Published: September 2022

Purpose

Otoendoscopy represents the initial non-invasive diagnostic cornerstone for external and middle ear disorders. Recently, new techniques of enhanced imaging such as narrow-band imaging (NBI) have been introduced but their role as a potential aid in otological practice remains unproven. In this pictorial review, we want to present the potential application of this endoscopic method, highlight its limitations, and give some hints regarding its future implementation.

Methods

Representative cases of external and/or middle ear pathologies were selected to illustrate the role of NBI in this regard.

Results

NBI may represent a useful aid in the otological work-up, in the differential diagnosis of ear tumor-like masses, and, possibly, in the prognosis of tympanic perforations. For other ear disorders, instead, this technique does not seem to add anything to the standard clinical practice.

Conclusions

NBI might prove useful in the assessment of selected external and middle ear disorders but its role must be prospectively validated.
Kidney function and renal resistive index in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Cafarotti Alessandro , Marcovecchio Maria Loredana , Lapergola Giuseppe , Di Battista Caterina , Marsili Manuela , Basilico Raffaella , Di Donato Giulia , David Daniela , Pelliccia Piernicola , Chiarelli Francesco , Breda Luciana
Published: September 2022

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is a common pediatric rheumatic disease. Renal manifestations have been rarely observed in JIA, although amyloidosis could be a renal complication in systemic JIA (sJIA). To investigate renal damage in JIA children and to establish the relationship with treatment. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, cystatin C (CysC), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), urinary albumin excretion (UAE), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and renal resistive index (RRI) were assessed in 49 JIA children (9 boys/40 girls, mean age 10.3 ± 3.8 years) and in 49 healthy controls (24 boys/25 girls, mean age 11.3 ± 3.4 years). Twenty-two JIA patients were on methotrexate (MTX) therapy (group A) and 27 on biologic drugs (group B). CysC and BUN (respectively, 0.8 ± 0.1 vs. 0.7 ± 0.1 mg/dl; 13.3 ± 2.9 vs. 11.7 ± 1.4 mg/dl) were higher (p ≤ 0.001) whereas creatinine and eGFR (respectively, 0.5 ± 0.1 vs. 0.6 ± 0.1 mg/dl; 99.2 ± 10.5 vs. 122.5 ± 19.8 ml/min/1.73 m2) were lower in JIA children as compared to controls (p < 0.001). UAE resulted higher in patients than in controls (p = 0.003). Mean RRI was higher in JIA children than controls (0.7 ± 0.04 vs. 0.6 ± 0.04; p < 0.001). Group B showed higher mean RRI than group A (0.7 ± 0.1 vs. 0.7 ± 0.04; p < 0.001). Associations were found between RRI and ESR, JADAS-27, disease state, BMI-SDS (p < 0.001), CRP (p = 0.003) and eGFR (p = 0.001). JIA children had reduced eGFR, increased UAE and higher RRI values, than controls. RRIs were higher in patients on biologic drugs than MTX group and were associated with inflammation indexes and disease state, suggesting a direct effect of the disease.
Association of electrochemical skin conductance with neuropathy in chemotherapy-treated patients
Authors: Mahfouz Fawaz Mayez , Park Susanna B. , Li Tiffany , Timmins Hannah C. , Horvath Lisa G. , Harrison Michelle , Grimison Peter , King Tracy , Goldstein David , Mizrahi David
Published: September 2022

Purpose

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is an adverse event of cancer treatment that can affect sensory, motor, or autonomic nerves. Assessment of autonomic neuropathy is challenging, with limited available tools. Accordingly, it is not routinely assessed in chemotherapy-treated patients. In this study, we aimed to examine whether electrochemical skin conductance (ESC) via Sudoscan, a potential measure of autonomic function, associates with subjective and objective measures of CIPN severity and autonomic neuropathy.

Methods

A cross-sectional assessment of patients who completed neurotoxic chemotherapy 3–24 months prior was undertaken using CIPN patient-reported outcomes (EORTC-QLQ-CIPN20), clinically graded scale (NCI-CTCAE), neurological examination score (TNSc), autonomic outcome measure (SAS), and Sudoscan. Differences in CIPN severity between participants with or without ESC dysfunction were investigated. Linear regression analyses were used to identify whether ESC values could predict CIPN severity.

Results

A total of 130 participants were assessed, with 93 participants classified with CIPN according to the clinically graded scale (NCI-CTCAE/grade ≥ 1), while 49% demonstrated hands or feet ESC dysfunction (n = 46). Participants with ESC dysfunction did not significantly differ from those with no dysfunction on multiple CIPN severity measures (clinical-grade, patient-report, neurological examination), and no differences on the autonomic outcome measure (SAS) (all p > 0.0063). Linear regression analyses showed that CIPN could not be predicted by ESC values.

Conclusions

The inability of ESC values via Sudoscan to predict clinically-graded and patient-reported CIPN or autonomic dysfunction questions its clinical utility for chemotherapy-treated patients. The understanding of autonomic neuropathy with chemotherapy treatment remains limited and must be addressed to improve quality of life in cancer survivors.
Response scale overstretch: linear stretching of response scales does not ensure cross-project equivalence in harmonised data
Authors: Cichocki Piotr , Jabkowski Piotr
Published: September 2022

Differences in the response-scale formats constitute a major challenge for ex-post harmonisation of survey data. Linear stretching of original response options onto a common range of values remains a popular response to format differences. Unlike its more sophisticated alternative, simple stretching proves readily applicable without requiring assumptions regarding scale length or access to auxiliary information. The transformation only accounts for response scale length, ignoring all other aspects of measurement quality, which makes the equivalence of harmonised survey variables questionable. This paper focuses on the inherent limitations of linear stretching based on a case study focusing on the measurements of trust in the European Parliament by the Eurobarometer and the European Social Survey—8 timewise corresponding survey waves in 14 European countries (2004–2018). Our analysis demonstrates that the linear stretch approach to harmonising question items with different underlying response scale formats does not make the results of the two surveys equivalent. Despite harmonisation, response scale effects are retained in the distributions of output variables.
Remote sensing and multi-criterion analysis for identifying suitable rainwater harvesting areas
Authors: Debebe Yalembrhan , Otterpohl Ralf , Islam Zubairul
Published: September 2022

Water scarcity and soil erosion are the main constraints small holder farmers are facing in Tigray, the northern most part of Ethiopia. Both very high and very low precipitation can cause a damage to agriculture which is the case in semi-arid regions like Tigray. While too little rainfall cannot support the growth of crops resulting in crop failure, the short but intense rainfall also causes a runoff thereby washing away essential soil nutrients. Installation of different micro/macro-catchment rainwater harvesting can address both water scarcity and soil erosion if they are properly designed prior to construction. This research was intended to develop a methodology for identifying suitable rainwater harvesting (rwh) sites by using weighted overlay analysis. It also utilizes Ahp (analytical hierarchy process) as effective multi-criterion decision-making tool in eastern Tigray at Kilte Awlaelo district on an area of 1001 km2. This method was chosen because it is simple to use, cost effective, flexible and widely adopted. Physical, hydrological, climate and socio-economic aspects were taken into account during criteria selection. The result indicated four suitability classes with 8.74% highly suitable areas (85.25 km2), 56% suitable areas (550.75 km2), 30.8% moderately suitable areas (303.2 km2) and 4.46% less suitable areas (43.87 km2). The produced rwh suitability map was also validated by both ground truth on google earth pro and a field trip to the study site. In situ and ex situ rwh including bench terraces, wells, and exclosure areas were identified during the field visit that verified the suitability model. Finally, depending on weight and scale of criteria and sub-criteria that matched to each identified suitable areas, different micro-catchment and macro-catchment techniques of water harvesting are recommended. This methodology can be utilized as decision-making tool for rwh practitioners, local and foreign organizations working on soil water conservation programmes and policy-makers during their early planning stages.
Transient CFD Calculation of Accretion Formation in a Copper Waste Heat Boiler
Authors: Schmidt Amélia , Montenegro Victor , Reuter Markus , Charitos Alexandros , Stelter Michael , Richter Andreas
Published: September 2022

The operation of a copper Flash Smelting Furnace (FSF) is often limited by the availability of the downstream Waste Heat Boiler (WHB). Carry-over of concentrate into the boiler leads to accretion formation, which can cause boiler downtime. Hence, the minimization of flue dust and its accretions is an important operational goal. In this study, a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model is used to investigate how three different baffle plate designs influence accretion formation over a period of 24 hours. The predicted dust accretion patterns were compared for all baffle plate modifications, with differences found both in the resulting sedimentation and accretion of dust particles. While the dispersive design led to large, but evenly coated accretion risk zones, a streamlined design minimized their size but led to locally thick accretion layers. Based on these findings, design recommendations for the baffle plate were derived.
The High-Temperature Cu-Fe-S System: Thermodynamic Analysis and Prediction of the Liquid–Solid Phase Range
Authors: Waldner Peter
Published: September 2022

Thermodynamic modeling of the Cu-Fe-S liquid solution is carried in the framework of the modified quasichemical model. The manifold nature of Cu-Fe-S liquid solutions from highly metallic via sulfur-rich to pure liquid sulfur is described by one single Gibbs energy expression at 1 bar total pressure. The model predictive ability of an asymmetric versus symmetric approach is thermodynamically analyzed with respect to the extrapolation scheme from the binary subsystems into the ternary system. Without the need of adjustable ternary parameters predictions of sulfur potentials for the liquid phase are in line with experimental data available in the literature. High-temperature pyrrhotite optimized via the compound energy formalism and Cu-Fe-S alloy phases are taken into consideration to predict phase equilibria with the liquid solution. Four isothermal and four isoplethal sections demonstrate promising agreement between a large stock of experimental data and prediction.
Bariatric Surgery and the Risk of Cerebrovascular Events: a Meta-analysis of 17 Studies Including 3,124,063 Subjects
Authors: Cai Zixin , Zhang Qirui , Jiang Yingling , Liu Wei , Zhang Jingjing
Published: September 2022

Purpose

To perform a meta-analysis of the literature to evaluate the prevalence of cerebrovascular comorbidities between patients undergoing bariatric surgery and those not undergoing bariatric surgery.

Materials and Methods

Studies about the risk of cerebrovascular disease both before and after bariatric surgery were systematically explored in multiple electronic databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Embase, from the time of database construction to May 2022.

Results

Seventeen studies with 3,124,063 patients were finally included in the meta-analysis. There was a statistically significant reduction in cerebrovascular event risk following bariatric surgery (OR 0.68; 95% CI 0.58 to 0.78; I2 = 87.9%). The results of our meta-analysis showed that bariatric surgery was associated with decreased cerebrovascular event risk in the USA, Sweden, the UK, and Germany but not in China or Finland. There was no significant difference in the incidence of cerebrovascular events among bariatric surgery patients compared to non-surgical patients for greater than or equal to 5 years, but the incidence of cerebrovascular events less than 5 years after bariatric surgery was significantly lower in the surgical patients compared to non-surgical patients in the USA population.

Conclusion

Our meta-analysis suggested that bariatric surgery for severe obesity was associated with a reduced risk of cerebrovascular events in the USA, Sweden, the UK, and Germany. Bariatric surgery significantly reduced the risk of cerebrovascular events within 5 years, but there was no significant difference in the risk of cerebrovascular events for 5 or more years after bariatric surgery in the USA.

Graphical abstract
On the Dirichlet problem associated with bounded perturbations of positively-(p, q)- homogeneous Hamiltonian systems
Authors: Fonda Alessandro , Klun Giuliano , Obersnel Franco , Sfecci Andrea
Published: September 2022

The existence of solutions for the Dirichlet problem associated with bounded perturbations of positively-(p, q)-homogeneous Hamiltonian systems is considered both in nonresonant and resonant situations. To deal with the resonant case, the existence of a couple of lower and upper solutions is assumed. Both the well-ordered and the non-well-ordered cases are analysed. The proof is based on phase-plane analysis and topological degree theory.
Der vollkommene Markt – ein nahendes Dilemma der Assekuranz?
Authors: Fleischer Martin , Braun Alexander , Ufert Aneta , Walthes Frank
Published: September 2022

Der vollkommene Markt beschreibt einen theoretischen Idealzustand. Für die Assekuranz ist dieses Paradigma aktueller denn je. Die digitale Transformation führt die Versicherungswirtschaft in Richtung vollkommener Markt. Aus dem bestehenden Polypol in der Assekuranz entwickelten sich zwei Subpolypole: ein klassischer Markt mit Kunden, die nicht oder selten mehrere Angebote vergleichen und ein transparenter Markt, in dem Standardisierung und Vergleiche besonders wichtig sind. Der transparente Markt ist näher am vollkommenen Markt als der klassische Markt. Dementsprechend impliziert er auch andere Treiber für die Gewinnfunktionen von Unternehmen. Als Folge sind je Subpolypol unterschiedliche Kompetenzen notwendig. Versicherungsunternehmen stehen vor einem strategischen Dilemma. Sie können sich einerseits in den Sog des transparenten Marktes begeben und sich als Fast Follower auf dessen Gegebenheiten spezialisieren. Alternativ müssen sie den Fokus auf das permanente Ausbrechen aus dem transparenten Markt richten und als First Mover Alleinstellungsmerkmale aufbauen.
Chinas Reaktion auf Russlands Krieg gegen die Ukraine. Strategische Zurückhaltung mit Moskauer Schlagseite
Authors: Hoppe Sebastian
Published: September 2022

China hat auf Russlands Angriffskrieg gegen die Ukraine und das in der Folge von westlichen Staaten verhängte Sanktionsregime mit einem diplomatischen Balanceakt mit „Moskauer Schlagseite“ reagiert. Dieser hält an den strategischen Koordinaten der Vorkriegszeit fest: umfangreiche Integration in die Weltwirtschaft bei gleichzeitiger Zurückweisung globaler US-amerikanischer Hegemoniebestrebungen, diplomatischer und energiepolitischer Ausbau der russländisch-chinesischen Beziehungen sowie selektive Militärkooperation mit Moskau.
A probabilistic public key encryption switching scheme for secure cloud storage
Authors: Bhat Radhakrishna , Sunitha N. R. , Iyengar S. S.
Published: September 2022

The high demand for user-centric applications such as secure cloud storage laid the foundation for the development of user-centric security schemes with multiple security features in recent years. But, the current state-of-art techniques primarily emphasized only one type of security feature i.e., either homomorphism or non-malleability. To fill this gap and provide a common platform for both homomorphic and non-malleable cloud applications, we have introduced a new public key-based probabilistic encryption switching method. The proposed scheme generates $${\mathcal {O}}$$
O
(m+2 log N) bits of ciphertext where $$m\in {\mathbb {N}}$$

m
∈
N

and $$m<n$$

m
<
n

, $$n\in {\mathbb {N}}$$

n
∈
N

is the plaintext size, N is the RSA composite. The superior performance of the proposed scheme has been tested in comparison to existing methods and is reported in this paper.
Fragility of cardiovascular outcome trials (CVOTs) examining nutrition interventions among patients with diabetes mellitus: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Taouktsi Niki , Papageorgiou Stefanos T. , Tousinas Georgios , Papanikolopoulou Stavroula , Grammatikopoulou Maria G. , Giannakoulas George , Goulis Dimitrios G.
Published: September 2022

Purpose

There is controversy regarding the optimal statistical method to interpret how robust is a statistically significant result. The fragility index (FI) and the reverse fragility index (RFI) are quantitative measures that can facilitate the appraisal of a clinical trial’s robustness. This study was performed to evaluate the FI and RFI of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining nutritional interventions in patients with diabetes mellitus, focusing on cardiovascular outcomes.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted and relevant RCTs were identified in three databases. RCTs examining nutritional interventions (supplements or dietary patterns) in patients with DM with dichotomous primary endpoints involving cardiovascular outcomes were eligible. Data were extracted to compose 2 × 2 event tables and the FI and RFI were calculated for each comparison, using Fisher’s exact test. Risk of bias (RoB) of the included RCTs was assessed with the Cochrane RoB 2.0 tool.

Results

A total of 14,315 records were screened and 10 RCTs were included in the analyses. The median FI of the paired comparisons was 3 (IQR: 2–4) and the median RFI was 8 (IQR: 4.5–17). RoB and heterogeneity were low.

Conclusions

RCTs examining nutritional interventions and cardiovascular outcomes among patients with diabetes mellitus appear to be statistically fragile. Τhe FI and the RFI can be reported and interpreted as an additional perspective of a trial’s robustness.

Highlights

• In the evidence-healthcare era, assessing how robust statistically significant results are remains a matter of controversy.

• Recently, the fragility index (FI) and reverse fragility index (RFI) were proposed to assess the robustness of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with 2 × 2 comparisons.

• When applying the FI and RFI, RCTs examining nutritional interventions and cardiovascular outcomes among patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) appear to be statistically fragile.

• Τhe FI and the RFI can be reported and interpreted as an additional perspective of a trial’s robustness.

• RCTs implementing nutrition interventions among patients with DM can improve their methodology.
Testing the earthquake damage and vulnerability of the Cherichira aqueduct bridge, Kairouan (Tunisia) with discrete element modeling
Authors: Hinzen Klaus-G. , Meghraoui Mustapha , Bahrouni Nejib , Reamer Sharon K.
Published: September 2022

The Cherichira aqueduct, originating from Roman times, supplied the city of Kairouan, Tunisia, with water and has had alternating phases of damage and repair after the Roman and during the Aghlabid and Fatimid era. A crucial section of the lifeline is the Cherichira aqueduct bridge (CAB), and scholars have discussed the possibility that earthquake ground motions caused damage which disrupted the water supply of Kairouan. However, little was known about the dynamic behavior of the bridge and its vulnerability to earthquake ground motions. Computer-aided design based on a detailed laser scan model of the remains of the bridge and published data were used to reconstruct the CAB of the Aghlabid period. Subsequently converted into a discrete element model, the digital version of the CAB was subjected to analytic ground motion signals and full 3D simulations of local earthquakes. The CAB model shows a fundamental eigenfrequency close to 1 Hz in the direction transverse to its trend, and single-component ground motions in this direction with peak particle velocities above 1.0 m/s cause damage to the top of the CAB. Among the earthquake scenarios with full 3D ground motions applied, only the activation of a nearby thrust fault caused distinct damage. While fractures in the ruins of the CAB cutting through the upper part of the bridge which includes the water canal are a likely cause for disrupting the water flow and are similar to the damage pattern produced in the model calculations, a solely seismogenic cause of the total collapse of some parts of the CAB cannot be verified by the simulations.
Supervised pearlitic–ferritic steel microstructure segmentation by U-Net convolutional neural network
Authors: Motyl Mateusz , Madej Łukasz
Published: September 2022

The aim of this work is to develop an automated procedure based on machine learning capabilities for the identification of the pearlite islands within the two-phase pearlitic–ferritic steel. The input parameters for the custom implementation of a braided neural network are provided as a data set of scanning electron microscopy images of metallographic specimens. The procedures related to the processing of the data and the optimization parameters affecting the final architecture and effectiveness of the network learning stage are examined. The objective is to find the best solution to the problem of ferritic–pearlitic microstructure segmentation, allowing further processing during, e.g., 3D reconstruction of data from serial sectioning. The work examines the various quality of input data and different U-Net architectures to find the one that can identify pearlite islands with the highest precision. Two types of images acquired from secondary electron (SE) and electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD) detectors are used during the investigation. The work revealed that the developed approach offers improvements in metallographic investigations by removing the requirement for expert knowledge for the interpretation of image data prior to further characterization. It has also been proven that artificial neural networks based on the deep learning process using extensible U-Net network architectures and nonlinear learning tools can identify pearlite islands within a two-phase microstructure, while the overtraining level remains low. Convolutional neural networks do not require manual feature extraction and are able to automatically find appropriate search functions to recognize pearlite structure areas in the training process without human intervention. It was shown that the network recognizes areas of analyzed steel with satisfactory precision of 79% for EBSD and 87% for SE images.