bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing wear time and perceptions of wearing an ankle foot orthosis in patients with peripheral artery disease
Authors: Dinkel Danae , Hassan Mahdi , Rech John P. , DeSpiegelaere Holly , Johanning Jason , Pipinos Iraklis , Myers Sara
Published: April 2022

Background

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a cardiovascular disease that affects walking ability. An ankle foot orthosis (AFO) may improve walking distances in those with PAD. Little research has explored if those with PAD wear a prescribed AFO and their perceptions of wearing the device.

Objective

To assess wear time of an AFO and explore perceptions of wearing the device in patients with PAD.

Design

Convergent mixed methods.

Setting

The study was conducted through a tertiary care medical center, and the research participants used the device in the community.

Participants

Thirty‐six patients, all older adult males, were enrolled in this study. Fourteen patients completed the study and 11 supplied sufficient accelerometer data to include in the analysis.

Interventions

An AFO was worn for 3 months. An accelerometer was placed on the AFO for 7 days at the midpoint (1.5 months) and endpoint of the intervention (3 months) to assess wear time. Semi‐structured interviews explored patients' perceptions of wearing the AFO.

Main Outcome Measure

The primary outcome measure was wear time measured objectively via accelerometer and subjectively via interview.

Results

Patients (n = 14) wore the AFO approximately 8 hours/day. Patients reported barriers such as challenges wearing the AFO during daily household activities (using stairs, being on uneven terrain), discomfort, clothing or footwear issues, and driving challenges. Positive effects of wearing the AFO were also reported, primarily the ability to walk further.

Conclusions

An AFO may be an acceptable therapeutic intervention to improve perceived walking performance in older adult males with PAD. Addressing participants' perceptions of the AFO and barriers to wear are essential to increasing the positive effect the device has on participants' ambulatory activity.
Enhanced Transverse Thermoelectric Voltage in the Au/Ni Foil Bilayer System via the Combination of Spin Seebeck Effect and Anomalous Nernst Effect
Authors: Piyasin Piyawat , Pinitsoontorn Supree
Published: April 2022

The transverse thermoelectric voltage in the Au/Ni foil bilayer system has been investigated due to the combination of the spin Seebeck effect (SSE) and the anomalous Nernst effect (ANE) at room temperature. It is found that the transverse thermoelectric voltage proportionally increases with increasing applied temperature difference and approaches a constant value when the magnetization of the Ni foil reaches a saturation state. The measured thermoelectric voltage signal, about 0.424 ± 0.005 μV at 5 K of temperature difference, is the combination of the ANE signal from the Ni foil and the SSE signal from the Au/Ni foil bilayer system. The SSE and ANE coefficients are determined from the observed voltages, temperature difference, and dimension of the sample. Consequently, the SSE coefficient is found to be 2.5 times larger than the ANE coefficient. Moreover, the special dimensionless figure of merit for SSE is much greater than the obtained from ANE about 7 times. The work demonstrates the enhancement of the thermoelectric voltage due to the superposition of the SSE and ANE in the single bilayer system.
Magnetic After‐Effect Study of Carbon Distribution and Grain Boundary Diffusion in FeCrC Alloys and Steels
Authors: Konstantinović Milan J. , Prester Mladen , Drobac Djuro , Novosel Nikolina
Published: April 2022

Herein, carbon distribution and grain‐boundary diffusion processes are studied in a variety of FeCr alloys and steels with different chromium content and microstructure, based on magnetic after‐effect measurements performed in a broad temperature range, from 100 to 1000 K. The existence of three metastable carbon positions in the lattice is revealed in the FeC alloys. Carbon as interstitial in the lattice, segregated at the dislocations and grain boundaries, is represented by the relaxation peaks at about 269, 432, and 607 K, respectively. The relaxation process due to the grain‐boundary self‐diffusion is clearly distinguished from those mentioned earlier, and is observed to be at about 643 and 681 K in low and high carbon Fe, respectively. Addition of Cr has a twofold effect: a) for Cr concentrations higher than about 3 wt carbon‐related relaxation processes completely disappear from the spectra, most probably due to formation of carbides, b) the solute grain‐boundary diffusion relaxation peak appears in the spectra at about 800 K, with an activation energy that is directly dependent on the Cr content. Activation energy of the solute grain‐boundary diffusion is found to be generally smaller in ferrite–martensite microstructure in comparison with fully ferrite alloys.
Therapeutic effect of paeoniflorin on chronic constriction injury of the sciatic nerve via the inhibition of Schwann cell apoptosis
Authors: Zhang Di , Chang Shiquan , Li Xin , Shi Huimei , Jing Bei , Chen Zhenni , Lin Yi , Zheng Yachun , Qian Guoqiang , Pan Yuwei , Zhao Guoping
Published: May 2022

Therapeutic drugs of chronic neuralgia have a high risk of addiction, making it crucial to identify novel drugs for chronic neuralgia. This study aimed to explore the therapeutic effect of paeoniflorin on chronic sciatica via inhibiting Schwann cell apoptosis. 28 SD rats were randomly divided into four groups, including the sham operation group, chronic constriction injury (CCI) group, mecobalamin group, and paeoniflorin group. The therapeutic effect and mechanism of paeoniflorin were evaluated via rat and cell experiments. Mechanical, hot, or cold hyperalgesia was induced in the rats after CCI operation, while paeoniflorin relieved chronic neuralgia. Besides, paeoniflorin decreased the levels of IL1, IL6, TNF‐α, CRP, and LPS and increased the level of IL10 in serum. As for the sciatic nerve, the number of inflammatory cells was decreased, and Schwann cells were present after paeoniflorin treatment, and paeoniflorin promoted the recovery of nerve structure. In cell experiments, LPS induced Schwann cell apoptosis via the TLR4/NF‐kB pathway. And paeoniflorin attenuated LPS‐induced Schwann cell apoptosis by decreasing the levels of TLR4, p‐NF‐kB, caspase3, cleaved‐caspase3, and cleaved‐caspase7. Overall, these results suggest that paeoniflorin alleviates chronic sciatica by decreasing inflammatory factor levels and promotes the repair of damaged nerves by reducing Schwann cell apoptosis.
A green path towards sustainable development: Optimal behavior of the duopoly game model with carbon neutrality instruments
Authors: Hussain Jafar , Lee Chien‐Chiang
Published: April 2022

Carbon emission is a global issue, and China is facing many problems to resolve it, especially in emission‐generating companies (EGCs). To maintain sustainable development, it is necessary to reduce carbon emissions for the well‐being of society, and carbon neutrality can play an important role. With China targeting the goal of carbon neutrality to reduce carbon emissions, this research aims to bridge the gap in the literature by considering carbon neutrality instruments in a duopoly market. The study sets up a mathematical model of the duopoly game to achieve desired objectives and then applies a simulation‐based optimization technique to examine the mathematical model under different experiments. After manipulating various scenarios to find the optimal values of carbon neutrality instruments, the results indicate that green bond provision, emission tax, and emission quota play a vital role in carbon neutrality. Different combinations of carbon neutrality instruments reduce various levels of carbon emissions. We further show that a combination of emission tax upon EGCs plays a key role in reducing carbon emissions during the fifth scenario. In the second scenario, a combination of green bond provision and emission tax reduces carbon emissions, but is lower than the fifth scenario. This research offers a reference for policymakers to move towards carbon neutrality, and it is beneficial for the government to decide the optimal values of carbon neutrality instruments.
Co‐Electrospun Silk Fibroin and Gelatin Methacryloyl Sheet Seeded with Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Tendon Regeneration
Authors: Xue Yumeng , Kim Han‐Jun , Lee Junmin , Liu Yaowen , Hoffman Tyler , Chen Yi , Zhou Xingwu , Sun Wujin , Zhang Shiming , Cho Hyun‐Jong , Lee JiYong , Kang Heemin , Ryu WonHyoung , Lee Chang‐Moon , Ahadian Samad , Dokmeci Mehmet R. , Lei Bo , Lee KangJu , Khademhosseini Ali
Published: April 2022

Silk fibroin (SF) is a promising biomaterial for tendon repair, but its relatively rigid mechanical properties and low cell affinity have limited its application in regenerative medicine. Meanwhile, gelatin‐based polymers have advantages in cell attachment and tissue remodeling but have insufficient mechanical strength to regenerate tough tissue such as tendons. Taking these aspects into account, in this study, gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) is combined with SF to create a mechanically strong and bioactive nanofibrous scaffold (SG). The mechanical properties of SG nanofibers can be flexibly modulated by varying the ratio of SF and GelMA. Compared to SF nanofibers, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) seeded on SG fibers with optimal composition (SG7) exhibit enhanced growth, proliferation, vascular endothelial growth factor production, and tenogenic gene expression behavior. Conditioned media from MSCs cultured on SG7 scaffolds can greatly promote the migration and proliferation of tenocytes. Histological analysis and tenogenesis‐related immunofluorescence staining indicate SG7 scaffolds demonstrate enhanced in vivo tendon tissue regeneration compared to other groups. Therefore, rational combinations of SF and GelMA hybrid nanofibers may help to improve therapeutic outcomes and address the challenges of tissue‐engineered scaffolds for tendon regeneration.
Sub‐1 nm MoC Quantum Dots Decorating N‐Doped Graphene as Advanced Electrocatalysts of Flexible Hybrid Alkali–Acid Zn‐Quinone Battery
Authors: Cai Pingwei , Li Junwei , Huang Junheng , Chen Junxiang , Ding Yichun , Peng Xinxin , Wen Zhenhai
Published: May 2022

The development of flexible energy devices is envisaged to revolutionize the next generation of the wearable electronics industry, the practical application yet faces critical issues of low power density, poor cycling stability, and low energy density. Herein, the authors report a newly flexible hybrid Zn‐quinone battery (h‐ZnQB) with acidic gel in the cathode and alkaline gel in the anode, in which proton (H+) and hydroxide ions (OH–) are served as the ion charge carriers for acidic quinone cathode and alkaline Zn anode. To this end, the nanohybrids of sub‐1 nm MoC quantum dots decorating nitrogen‐doped ultrathin graphene (MoC QDs/NG) are developed as the advanced cathode electrocatalysts toward redox conversion between quinone and hydroquinone (H2Q/Q). Comprehensive characterization studies and density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that high valent Mo species originating from the size‐effects serve as the active sites for the conversion of H2Q/Q, contributing to the impressive catalytic performance. The as‐developed flexible h‐ZnQB displays a high open‐circuit voltage of 1.74 V with a specific capacity of 223.3 mAh g–1 and an energy density of 350 Wh kg–1 at 0.2 A g–1, thanks to the fast kinetics of charge carriers (H+ and OH–), the high activity of the catalyst, and the elaborate design of alkali–acid gel electrolytes.
Perovskite Single‐Crystal Solar Cells: Advances and Challenges
Authors: De Marco Luisa , Nasti Giuseppe , Abate Antonio , Rizzo Aurora
Published: April 2022

In just over a decade, the power conversion efficiency of metal‐halide perovskite solar cells has increased from 3.9% to 25.5%, suggesting this technology might be ready for large‐scale exploitation in industrial applications. Photovoltaic devices based on perovskite single crystals are emerging as a viable alternative to polycrystalline materials. Perovskite single crystals indeed possess lower trap state densities, higher carrier mobilities, and longer diffusion lengths, and potentially can achieve higher performance with respect to those fabricated with polycrystalline films, although their integration in a complete device needs particular attention and the use of specifically tailored growth techniques. In this review, recent advances on single‐crystal halide perovskites are reported. First, crystalline structure and fundamental properties of 3D perovskites are discussed, including the emerging mixed‐anion cation perovskites, and then the most popular growth methods with a focus on techniques that enable the implementation in photovoltaic devices are presented. Architectures and materials used to produce lateral and vertical solar cells are further introduced and recent improvements in device design and fabrication are summarized. Finally, the strategies used to solve the still open challenge on these materials regarding stability under environmental conditions are critically discussed and the view on the opportunities offered by halide perovskites is reflected.
Surface Modification of Cu(in,Ga)Se2 Film with a Post‐Deposition Treatment Using a KI Solution and Its Effect on Solar Cell Performance
Authors: Lee Jeong Hyun , Tsvetkov Nikolai , Kim Seung Tae , Kim Kihwan , Yun Jae Ho , Larina Liudmila , Ahn Byung Tae
Published: April 2022

Alkali post‐deposition treatment (PDT) of Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) film is an effective approach to obtain high‐efficiency CIGS solar cells. Herein, a low‐cost and scalable surface passivation process is reported when the potassium iodide (KI) alkali source is employed instead of the conventional potassium fluoride (KF). CIGS surface is modified by spin‐coating of KI solution and subsequent annealing at 350 °C in a Se atmosphere. With the KI PDT, the cell efficiency is enhanced by almost 20% due to the increase of shunt resistance and the lowering of reverse saturation current. To clarify the origin of the efficiency enhancement, the chemical state and electronic structure at the CIGS surface are investigated. The KI PDT yields a valence band lowering by 0.18 eV at the CIGS/CdS interface, leading to the suppression of the interface recombination. This is possible by Cu depletion and Cu cation reduction at the CIGS surface after KI treatment. The developed process may be considered an upcoming alternative alkali PDT for CIGS absorbers. The results provide the knowledge base for further optimization of the interface properties to form high‐quality heterojunction in the CIGS solar cells.
Out‐of‐Glovebox Integration of Recyclable Europium‐Doped CsPbI3 in Triple‐Mesoscopic Carbon‐Based Solar Cells Exceeding 9% Efficiency
Authors: Valastro Salvatore , Smecca Emanuele , Bongiorno Corrado , Spampinato Carlo , Mannino Giovanni , Biagi Simone , Deretzis Ioannis , Giannazzo Filippo , Jena Ajay Kumar , Miyasaka Tsutomu , La Magna Antonino , Alberti Alessandra
Published: April 2022

CsPbI3 perovskites are attracting huge interest for their inorganic structure and thanks to a bandgap of 1.69–1.78 eV that makes them suitable for application in tandem solar cells with silicon. Herein, all‐inorganic hole‐transporting‐layer (HTL)‐free carbon‐based CsPbI3 perovskite solar cells (mC‐PSCs) are fabricated, for the first time, by infiltrating CsPbI3 solutions enriched with precursors of Europium into triple mesoscopic structures with mesoporous (mp) materials (mp‐TiO2/mp‐ZrO2/mp‐Carbon). The use of Europium is beneficial to mitigate lattice defect formation during the reaction. Drop casting of the solution is done in air and the black γ‐phase formation is promoted under dynamic nitrogen flow during high‐temperature annealing (350 °C), which is preferred to low‐temperature treatments to maximize perovskite phase stability. The preparation protocol entrusts the devices with the best power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of 9.2% and 5.2% using EuI2 and EuCl3, respectively. Recorded PCE is considerably lower (<2%) in the reference devices prepared without Europium. In addition, the Eu‐based devices are recycled to reconvert the photo‐inactive yellow δ‐phase into the photo‐active black γ‐phase with the devices losing only ≈10% of the efficiency of the original device. Thus, it is demonstrated that mC‐PSCs recycling is feasible by exploiting the special feature of the high‐temperature black γ‐phase‐reversibility.
Mn‐Doped Perovskite Nanocrystals for Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction: Insight into the Role of the Charge Carriers with Prolonged Lifetime
Authors: Wang Jin , Xiong Li , Bai Yu , Chen Zhoujie , Zheng Qi , Shi Yangyi , Zhang Chao , Jiang Guocan , Li Zhengquan
Published: April 2022

As an emerged photocatalyst, perovskites have attracted enormous interest in photocatalysis due to their excellent photoelectronic properties. However, most of the photoexcited electron–hole pairs recombine together before they reach the surface of perovskite for photocatalysis. The undesired charge recombination would compete with the surface photocatalytic reaction. Hence, the regulation of charge carriers is essential for improving the photocatalytic performance of perovskites. Herein, the charge transfer dynamics by doping Mn2+ in CsPbCl3 perovskite nanocrystals (NCs) is manipulated and the role of the charge carriers with a prolonged lifetime in photocatalysis is investigated. The photogenerated charge carriers with a prolonged lifetime at both Mn2+ dopants and conduction band (CB) endow Mn:CsPbCl3 NCs with an enhanced photocatalytic activity toward CO2 reduction. The doping strategy provides us with a powerful tool to regulate the charge transfer dynamics in perovskite NCs for photocatalysis. It is believed that the long‐lived charge carriers in perovskite NCs have great potential in promoting charge separation and suppressing charge recombination in solar‐to‐fuel conversions.
Blockchain and IPFS‐based reliable land registry system
Authors: Banerjee Somesh , Kumar Khilesh , Masulkar Prajwal , Amin Ruhul , Dwivedi Sanjeev Kumar
Published: April 2022

Land registration is a process of keeping track of landowners of existing land. Registration of land helps maintain proof of ownership and prevents illegal land possession. Land‐related conflicts are common in developing countries like India due to inconsistent data and transparency. The land ownership transfers also take a longer time than expected. This article presents a land registry system using blockchain and InterPlanetary File System (IPFS) technology to overcome the mentioned problems. The land records will be immutable using blockchain, and nobody will forge them illegally. The system will be more transparent as all the users in the blockchain network can view the land and the owner's details before getting into ownership transfer. For maintaining the integrity of land and owner details, it will get stored in IPFS. The land transaction will be carried out via a smart contract. The smart contract checks whether all the entities agree with the transaction, and the money will get transferred within the described time limit. This proposed system will strengthen the land administration process by providing immutable and transparent land records. It will also speed up the registration process by a significant amount.
Numerical investigation on dynamic performance of reinforced ultra‐high ductile concrete–ultra‐high performance concrete panel under explosion
Authors: Liao Qiao , Xie Xingxing , Yu Jiangtao
Published: April 2022

Ultra‐high ductile concrete (UHDC) is known for ultra‐high tensile ductility, and ultra‐high performance concrete (UHPC) has ultra‐high compressive strength. Reinforced UHDC–UHPC panels that are made of UHDC and UHPC (i.e., hybrid panels) are expected to have excellent blast‐resistance capacity. However, only limited research is devoted to study the dynamic performance of the panels under explosion. To further investigate the dynamic performance of such kind of composite structural system, numerical simulations are carried out through LS‐DYNA. The developed material models are used for describing the mechanical properties of UHDC, UHPC and steel bars at high strain rate. Based on the corresponding field blast test results, the feasibility and accuracy of the adopted finite element models are validated. Furthermore, parameter analysis is applied for investigating the effects of scale distance, reinforcement ratio and concrete type on the dynamic performance. It is concluded that the maximum deflection of reinforced UHDC–UHPC panels reduces with increasing scale distance and reinforcement ratio. Reinforced UHDC–UHPC panels possess excellent blast‐resistance capacity in comparison with reinforced concrete panels.
Long-time tails in the SYK chain from the effective field theory with a large number of derivatives
Authors: Abbasi Navid
Published: April 2022

Abstract

We study nonlinear energy diffusion in the SYK chain within the framework of Schwinger-Keldysh effective field theory. We analytically construct the corresponding effective action up to 40th order in the derivative expansion. According to this effective action, we calculate the first order loop correction of the energy density response function, whose pole is the dispersion relation of energy diffusion. As expected, the standard derivative expansion of the classical dispersion relation breaks down due to the long-time tails. However, we find that the nonlinear contributions are so that one can still derive the dispersion relation in the power series. In fact, due to the long-time tails, the classical dispersion relation is split into two series distinct from the derivative expansion, and we show they are convergent. The radius of convergence is proportional to the ratio of thermal conductivity to diffusion constant.
The use patterns of novel psychedelics: experiential fingerprints of substituted phenethylamines, tryptamines and lysergamides
Authors: Mallaroni P. , Mason N. L. , Vinckenbosch F. R. J. , Ramaekers J. G.
Published: April 2022

Background

Novel psychedelics (NPs) are an expanding set of compounds, presenting new challenges for drug policy and opportunities for clinical research. Unlike their classical derivatives, little is known regarding their use profiles or their subjective effects.

Aims

The purpose of this study was to compile usage patterns and adverse event rates for individual NPs belonging to each of three main psychedelic structural families. Targeting the most widely used representatives for each class, we expanded on their phenomenological distinctions.

Methods

A two-part survey was employed. We investigated the prevalence of novel phenethylamines, tryptamine and lysergamides in NP users (N = 1180), contrasting the type and incidence of adverse events (AEs) using a set of logistic regressions. Honing in on 2–4-Bromo-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)ethanamine (2C-B) (48.6%), 1-propionyl-lysergic acid diethylamide (1P-LSD) (34.2%) and 4-Acetoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (4-AcO-DMT) (23.1%), we examined their phenomenological separability using a gradient boosting (XGBoost) supervised classifier.

Results

Novel phenethylamines had the highest prevalence of use (61.5%) seconded by tryptamines (43.8%) and lysergamides (42.9%). Usage patterns were identified for 32 different compounds, demonstrating variable dosages, durations and a common oral route of administration. Compared to phenethylamines, the odds for tryptamines and lysergamides users were significantly less for overall physical AEs. No significant differences in overall psychological AEs were found. Overall model area under the curve (AUC) stood at 0.79 with sensitivity (50.0%) and specificity (60.0%) for 2C-B ranking lowest.

Conclusion

NP classes may hold distinct AE rates and phenomenology, the latter potentially clouded by the subjective nature of these experiences. Further targeted research is warranted.
Brain magnetic resonance imaging radiomics features associated with hepatic encephalopathy in adult cirrhotic patients
Authors: Sparacia Gianvincenzo , Parla Giuseppe , Cannella Roberto , Mamone Giuseppe , Petridis Ioannis , Maruzzelli Luigi , Re Vincenzina Lo , Shahriari Mona , Iaia Alberto , Comelli Albert , Miraglia Roberto , Luca Angelo
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a potential complication of cirrhosis. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may demonstrate hyperintense T1 signal in theglobi pallidi. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the performance of MRI-based radiomic features for diagnosing and grading chronic HE in adult patients affected by cirrhosis.

Methods

Adult patients with and without cirrhosis underwent brain MRI with identical imaging protocol on a 3T scanner. Patients without history of chronic liver disease were the control population. HE grading was based on underlying liver disease, severity of clinical manifestation, and number of encephalopathic episodes. Texture analysis was performed on axial T1-weighted images on bilateral lentiform nuclei at the level of the foramina of Monro. Diagnostic performance of texture analysis for the diagnosis and grading of HE was assessed by calculating the area under the receiver operating characteristics (AUROC) with 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

The final study population consisted of 124 patients, 70 cirrhotic patients, and 54 non-cirrhotic controls. Thirty-eight patients had history of HE with 22 having an HE grade > 1. The radiomic features predicted the presence of HE with an AUROC of 0.82 (95% CI: 0.73, 0.90;P < .0001; 82% sensitivity, 66% specificity). Radiomic features predicted grade 1 HE (AUROC 0.75; 95% CI: 0.61, 0.89;P < .0001; 94% sensitivity, 60% specificity) and grade ≥ 2 HE (AUROC 0.82; 95% CI: 0.71, 0.93;P < .0001, 95% sensitivity, 57% specificity).

Conclusion

In cirrhotic patients, MR radiomic is effective in predicting the presence of chronic HE and in grading its severity.
Life of double minutes: generation, maintenance, and elimination
Authors: Ilić Mila , Zaalberg Irene C. , Raaijmakers Jonne A. , Medema René H.
Published: April 2022

Advances in genome sequencing have revealed a type of extrachromosomal DNA, historically named double minutes (also referred to as ecDNA), to be common in a wide range of cancer types, but not in healthy tissues. These cancer-associated circular DNA molecules contain one or a few genes that are amplified when double minutes accumulate. Double minutes harbor oncogenes or drug resistance genes that contribute to tumor aggressiveness through copy number amplification in combination with favorable epigenetic properties. Unequal distribution of double minutes over daughter cells contributes to intratumoral heterogeneity, thereby increasing tumor adaptability. In this review, we discuss various models delineating the mechanism of generation of double minutes. Furthermore, we highlight how double minutes are maintained, how they evolve, and discuss possible mechanisms driving their elimination.
Axonal injury is detected by βAPP immunohistochemistry in rapid death from head injury following road traffic collision
Authors: Al-Sarraj Safa , Troakes Claire , Rutty Guy N.
Published: April 2022

The accumulation of βAPP caused by axonal injury is an active energy-dependent process thought to require blood circulation; therefore, it is closely related to the post-injury survival time. Currently, the earliest reported time at which axonal injury can be detected in post-mortem traumatic brain injury (TBI) tissue by βAPP (Beta Amyloid Precursor Protein) immunohistochemistry is 35 min. The aim of this study is to investigate whether βAPP staining for axonal injury can be detected in patients who died rapidly after TBI in road traffic collision (RTC), in a period of less than 30 min.

We retrospectively studied thirty-seven patients (group 1) died very rapidly at the scene; evidenced by forensic assessment of injuries short survival, four patients died after a survival period of between 31 min and 12 h (group 2) and eight patients between 2 and 31 days (group 3). The brains were comprehensively examined and sampled at the time of the autopsy, and βAPP immunohistochemistry carried out on sections from a number of brain areas.

βAPP immunoreactivity was demonstrated in 35/37 brains in group 1, albeit with a low frequency and in a variable pattern, and with more intensity and frequency in all brains of group 2 and 7/8 brains from group 3, compared with no similar βAPP immunoreactivity in the control group. The results suggest axonal injury can be detected in those who died rapidly after RTC in a period of less than 30 min, which can help in the diagnosis of severe TBI with short survival time.
Mechanical or thermal damage: differentiating between underlying mechanisms as a cause of bone fractures
Authors: S Divya , Krap Tristan , Duijst Wilma , Aalders Maurice C. G. , Oostra Roelof-Jan
Published: April 2022

To investigate the differences between pre- and post-fire fractures, 30 human forearm bones were subjected to either blunt-force impact, burning, or both. Bones, covered in soft tissue and wrapped in clothing, were burned in a reconstructed house fire. The burning context and dynamics led to differential burning, that was equal amongst the three groups. To evaluate the damage to the bones, a data collection sheet was developed based on the current literature on fracture features. To analyze the relation between exposure temperature and fracture class and occurrence, color was measured to estimate the exposure temperature. Observable and measurable changes on bone, and fracture surfaces, were macro- and microscopically analyzed. Many features overlapped between the three groups, and thus are not usable for differentiation. Fractures caused by blunt force impact (post-mortem, pre-fire) showed a rough fracture surface with smoothness in curved/slanted regions near the margin after burning, while heat-induced bone fractures showed a smooth fracture surface. The margins and surface of bone fractures that originated after the fire (indirect heat-induced) were evenly discolored, whereas heat-induced bone fractures showed uneven discoloration of the fracture margin and surface. Although there were generally more heat-induced fractures in the 450–700 °C range, no other distinctive trend was observed between exposure temperature and class of fractures.
Genome interpretation using in silico predictors of variant impact
Authors: Katsonis Panagiotis , Wilhelm Kevin , Williams Amanda , Lichtarge Olivier
Published: April 2022

Estimating the effects of variants found in disease driver genes opens the door to personalized therapeutic opportunities. Clinical associations and laboratory experiments can only characterize a tiny fraction of all the available variants, leaving the majority as variants of unknown significance (VUS). In silico methods bridge this gap by providing instant estimates on a large scale, most often based on the numerous genetic differences between species. Despite concerns that these methods may lack reliability in individual subjects, their numerous practical applications over cohorts suggest they are already helpful and have a role to play in genome interpretation when used at the proper scale and context. In this review, we aim to gain insights into the training and validation of these variant effect predicting methods and illustrate representative types of experimental and clinical applications. Objective performance assessments using various datasets that are not yet published indicate the strengths and limitations of each method. These show that cautious use of in silico variant impact predictors is essential for addressing genome interpretation challenges.
Covering Convex Bodies and the Closest Vector Problem
Authors: Naszódi Márton , Venzin Moritz
Published: May 2022

We present algorithms for the$$(1+\epsilon )$$(1+ϵ)-approximate version of the closest vector problem for certain norms. The currently fastest algorithm (Dadush and Kun 2016) for general norms in dimensionnhas running time of$$2^{O(n)}(1/\epsilon )^n$$2O(n)(1/ϵ)n. We improve this substantially in the following two cases. First, for$$\ell _p$$ℓp-norms with$$p>2$$p>2(resp.$$p \in [1,2]$$p∈[1,2]) fixed, we present an algorithm with a running time of$$2^{O(n)}(1+1/\epsilon )^{n/2}$$2O(n)(1+1/ϵ)n/2(resp.$$2^{O(n)} (1+1/\epsilon )^{n/p}$$2O(n)(1+1/ϵ)n/p). This result is based on a geometric covering problem, that was introduced in the context of CVP by Eisenbrand et al.: How many convex bodies are needed to cover the ball of the norm such that, if scaled by factor 2 around their centroids, each one is contained in the$$(1+\epsilon )$$(1+ϵ)-scaled homothet of the norm ball? We provide upper bounds for this$$(2,\epsilon )$$(2,ϵ)-covering numberby exploiting themodulus of smoothnessof the$$\ell _p$$ℓp-balls. Applying a covering scheme, we can boost any 2-approximation algorithm for CVP to a$$(1+\epsilon )$$(1+ϵ)-approximation algorithm with the improved run time, either using a straightforward sampling routine or using the deterministic algorithm of Dadush for the construction of an epsilon net. Second, we consider polyhedral and zonotopal norms. For centrally symmetric polytopes (resp. zonotopes) in$${\mathbb R}^n$$RnwithO(n) facets (resp. generated byO(n) line segments), we provide a deterministic$$O(\log _2(2+1/\epsilon ))^{O(n)}$$O(log2(2+1/ϵ))O(n)time algorithm. This generalizes the result of Eisenbrand et al. which applies to the$$\ell _\infty $$ℓ∞-norm. Finally, we establish a connection between themodulus of smoothnessandlattice sparsification. As a consequence, using the enumeration and sparsification tools developped by Dadush, Kun, Peikert, and Vempala, we present a simple alternative to the boosting procedure with the same time and space requirement for$$\ell _p$$ℓpnorms. This connection might be of independent interest.
The Postpartum Specific Anxiety Scale: Confirmatory factor analyses and relationships with birth experience
Authors: Fallon Victoria , Davies Siân M. , Christiansen Paul , Harrold Joanne A. , Silverio Sergio A.
Published: April 2022

The Postpartum Specific Anxiety Scale [PSAS] was developed and validated as a research tool with a four-factor structure; with predictive validity corroborated in studies examining infant-feeding and maternal bonding outcomes. The PSAS has not been examined in relation to birth experiences. We aimed to confirm the PSAS four-factor structure and examine these domains of anxiety in relation to subjective and objective birth experiences. Postpartum mothers (≤ 12-months; N = 500) completed the PSAS alongside measures of subjective birth satisfaction and objective obstetric interventions/complications. Confirmatory factor analyses [CFA] tested eight models, theoretically derived from the preceding exploratory work. Structural equation modelling [SEM] tested associations between each PSAS factor and birth experience variables in the best-fitting model. An identical 51-item four-factor model fits the data well. SEM analyses revealed associations between lower perceptions of quality of intrapartum care and increased maternal competence and attachment anxieties, practical infant care anxieties, and infant safety and welfare anxieties. High subjective stress and negative emotional response to labour were associated with increased psychosocial adjustment to motherhood anxieties. Specific associations were found between neonatal care unit admission and practical infant care anxieties; and infant asphyxia and infant safety and welfare anxieties. Findings confirm construct and convergent validity of the four-factor PSAS and its use in measuring postpartum anxiety. Unique associations were also identified, indicating specific subjective and objective experiences occurring during birth may elicit a differential anxiety response, in that they are related to specific forms of postpartum anxiety which occur during the first postpartum year.
The bin covering with delivery problem, extended investigations for the online case
Authors: Abraham Gyula , Auer Peter , Dosa Gyorgy , Dulai Tibor , Tuza Zsolt , Werner-Stark Agnes
Published: April 2022

We deal with a model that is called Bin Covering with Delivery. Here we search for a “good and fast” covering. This problem has been defined and investigated recently. Here we continue and significantly augment the preliminary investigations of the problem. After studying the goodness of adapted versions of some classical algorithms, we propose a parametrized algorithm and use a heuristic parameter optimization method to solve this (algorithmically very challenging) problem. Namely, we apply local search to determine a good choice of the parameters. The efficiency of the proposed method is demonstrated by intensive computer experiments on appropriate modifications of benchmark instances.
Real-world effectiveness of third- or later-line treatment in Japanese patients with HER2-positive, unresectable, recurrent or metastatic gastric cancer: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Sakai Daisuke , Omori Takeshi , Fumita Soichi , Fujita Junya , Kawabata Ryohei , Matsuyama Jin , Yasui Hisateru , Hirao Motohiro , Kawase Tomono , Kishi Kentaro , Taniguchi Yoshiki , Miyazaki Yasuhiro , Kawada Junji , Satake Hironaga , Miura Tomoko , Miyake Akimitsu , Kurokawa Yukinori , Yamasaki Makoto , Yamada Tomomi , Satoh Taroh , Eguchi Hidetoshi , Doki Yuichiro
Published: April 2022

Background

Real-world evidence on the preference for and effectiveness of third- or later-line (3L +) monotherapy for HER2-positive gastric cancer is limited in Japan. This study evaluated the utility of nivolumab, irinotecan, and trifluridine/tipiracil (FTD/TPI) monotherapy as 3L + treatment in Japanese patients with HER2-positive gastric/gastroesophageal junction (G/GEJ) cancer who were previously treated with trastuzumab.

Methods

In this multicenter, retrospective, observational study (20 centers), data of eligible patients were extracted from medical records (September 22, 2017–March 31, 2020), with follow-up until June 30, 2020. Outcomes included overall survival (OS), real-world progression-free survival (rwPFS), time to treatment failure (TTF), objective response rate (ORR; complete response [CR] + partial response [PR]), and disease control rate (DCR).

Results

Of 127 enrolled patients, the overall analysis population comprised 117 patients (median [range] age, 71 [38–89] years). The most commonly prescribed 3L + monotherapy was nivolumab (n = 100), followed by irinotecan (n = 12) and FTD/TPI (n = 5). The median (95% confidence interval [CI]) OS, rwPFS, and TTF were 6.2 (4.5–8.0), 1.9 (1.5–2.3), and 1.8 (1.5–2.2) months, respectively, at median (range) 150 (25–1007) days of follow-up. The ORR (CR + PR) and DCR were 9.0% (1% + 8%) and 32.0%, respectively. Factors such as higher neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (≥ 2.54), Glasgow prognostic score (≥ 1), Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG PS; ≥ 2), and hepatic metastasis significantly impacted OS.

Conclusions

The observed OS in this study for HER2-positive G/GEJ cancer was shorter than that reported previously, suggesting that the effectiveness of nivolumab, irinotecan, or FTD/TPI as 3L + therapy may be limited.
Paris Agreement requires substantial, broad, and sustained policy efforts beyond COVID-19 public stimulus packages
Authors: Tanaka Katsumasa , Azar Christian , Boucher Olivier , Ciais Philippe , Gaucher Yann , Johansson Daniel J. A.
Published: May 2022

It has been claimed that COVID-19 public stimulus packages could be sufficient to meet the short-term energy investment needs to leverage a shift toward a pathway consistent with the 1.5 °C target of the Paris Agreement. Here, we provide complementary perspectives to reiterate that substantial, broad, and sustained policy efforts beyond stimulus packages will be needed for achieving the Paris Agreement long-term targets. Low-carbon investments will need to scale up and persist over the next several decades following short-term stimulus packages. The required total energy investments in the real world can be larger than the currently available estimates from integrated assessment models (IAMs). Existing databases from IAMs are not sufficient for analyzing the effect of public spending on emission reduction. To inform what role COVID-19 stimulus packages and public investments may play for reaching the Paris Agreement targets, explicit modelling of such policies is required.
Integrating attribution with adaptation for unprecedented future heatwaves
Authors: Harrington Luke J. , Ebi Kristie L. , Frame David J. , Otto Friederike E. L.
Published: May 2022

Citizens in many countries are now experiencing record-smashing heatwaves that were intensified due to anthropogenic climate change. Whether today’s most impactful heatwaves could have occurred in a pre-industrial climate, traditionally a central focus of attribution research, is fast becoming an obsolete question. The next frontier for attribution science is to inform adaptation decision-making in the face of unprecedented future heat.
A Novel Decision Aid Improves Quality of Reproductive Decision-Making and Pregnancy Knowledge for Women with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Wang Grace , Karimi Neda , Willmann Laura , Pipicella Joseph , Descallar Joseph , O’Connor Katie , Peculis Luiza , Leung Yvette , Connor Susan , Huang Vivian , Williams Astrid-Jane
Published: May 2022

Background

Women with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) with poor IBD-specific reproductive knowledge experience more childlessness and fear of IBD medications in pregnancy. The Pregnancy in IBD Decision Aid (PIDA), developed by an international multidisciplinary team, offers personalized online decision support regarding pregnancy in IBD.

Aims

Assess the impact of PIDA on quality of reproductive decision-making and pregnancy-related knowledge among preconception (PC) and pregnant patients with IBD, and evaluate acceptability to patients and clinicians.

Methods

PC and pregnant patients with IBD aged 18–45 completed questionnaires pre- and post-PIDA to assess quality of decision-making (Decisional Conflict Scale (DCS); Decision Self-Efficacy Scale (DSES) and IBD-in-pregnancy knowledge (Crohn's and Colitis Pregnancy Knowledge Score (CCPKnow)). Paired t test assessed for differences pre- and post-PIDA. Patients and clinicians completed acceptability surveys.

Results

DCS and DSES were completed by 74 patients (42 Crohn’s disease, 32 ulcerative colitis); 41 PC and 33 pregnant. DCS improved significantly post-PIDA in PC patients regarding pregnancy planning (t(40) = 4.83, p < 0.0001, Cohen’s dz = 0.75) and in pregnant patients regarding medication management (t(32) = 2.37, p = 0.0242, dz = 0.41). DSES for PC patients improved significantly post-PIDA (t(40) = -3.56, p = 0.001, dz = -0.56). CCPKnow improved significantly post-PIDA in PC (t(42) = 4.93, p < 0.0001, dz = -0.75) and pregnant patients (t(32) = 5.1, p < 0.0001, dz = -0.89). PIDA was deemed optimal for length, readability, and content amount and considered highly useful by patients (n = 73) and clinicians (n = 14).

Conclusions

Patients using PIDA developed an improved quality of reproductive decision-making and IBD-in-pregnancy knowledge. PIDA is an accessible tool that can empower women with IBD to make values-congruent, evidence-based decisions regarding pregnancy and may reduce voluntary childlessness.
An integrated curriculum of virtual/augmented reality for multiple design students
Authors: Mohamed Tarek Ismail , Sicklinger Andreas
Published: April 2022

With the rapid digital developments, the practice and study of VR/AR technologies reached almost all the design disciplines by considering different applications. Therefore, there is continuous pressure on design education, where course programs in graphic design, media design, fashion design, and product design must promptly incorporate these new technologies and create complete unity between the various design professions. This paper provides a careful examination of case studies in literature and consideration of utility for the profession through a curriculum of virtual and augmented reality technologies with specifications that suit multiple areas of design (product and graphic design). This approach demystifies these new technologies from the design process to product marketing. Interviews and discussions were conducted with a sample of approximately 100 participants (60% students, 30% design educators, 10% designers, and employers). The study included different universities from UAE, Egypt, and Italy. During the academic year 2020/2021. Furthermore, the results of this research were applied to design the Virtual Reality and its Derivatives course within the new study plan of the Graphic Design Department, College of Mass Communication at Ajman University in the United Arab Emirates.
Peer Aggression and Victimisation: Social Behaviour Strategies in Early Childhood in Spain
Authors: García-Fernández Cristina Mª , Romera Eva M. , Monks Claire P. , Ortega-Ruiz Rosario
Published: April 2022

The present study aims to examine the issue of peer aggression and victimisation in early childhood, with a focus on the associated social behaviour strategies (aggressiveness, prosociality, dominance and social insecurity). A sample of 227 children (58.1% girls, n = 132) between the ages of 4 and 7 years (M = 5.61; SD = 1. 03) participated in the study. Teacher reports and peer nominations of physical and verbal aggression and victimisation were analysed. Results showed an association between aggressiveness and insecurity and being nominated as a physical and verbal aggressor by peers. Being nominated as a physical victim was associated with aggressiveness and dominance; and for verbal victim with aggressiveness and prosociality. Differences were found between boys and girls in verbal aggression and victimisation. The current study contributes to a better understanding of the emergence of peer aggression and victimisation in relation to social processes in early childhood and has implications for the prevention of the later appearance of bullying.
Developer-centric test amplification
Authors: Brandt Carolin , Zaidman Andy
Published: May 2022

Automatically generating test cases for software has been an active research topic for many years. While current tools can generate powerful regression or crash-reproducing test cases, these are often kept separately from the maintained test suite. In this paper, we leverage the developer’s familiarity with test cases amplified from existing, manually written developer tests. Starting from issues reported by developers in previous studies, we investigate what aspects are important to design a developer-centric test amplification approach, that provides test cases that are taken over by developers into their test suite. We conduct 16 semi-structured interviews with software developers supported by our prototypical designs of a developer-centric test amplification approach and a corresponding test exploration tool. We extend the test amplification tool DSpot, generating test cases that are easier to understand. Our IntelliJ plugin TestCube"Image missing"

 empowers developers to explore amplified test cases from their familiar environment. From our interviews, we gather 52 observations that we summarize into 23 result categories and give two key recommendations on how future tool designers can make their tools better suited for developer-centric test amplification.