bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Saikokeishikankyoto extract alleviates muscle atrophy in KKAy mice
Authors: Ou Yanglan , Jobu Kohei , Ishida Tomoaki , Morisawa Shumpei , Fujita Hiroko , Kawada Kei , Yoshioka Saburo , Miyamura Mitsuhiko
Published: January 2022

Sarcopenic obesity is associated with increased visceral fat and decreased muscle mass, resulting in decreased insulin sensitivity, increased production of inflammatory cytokines, and oxidative stress. In this study, we first evaluated the effects of herbal medicines on the transcriptional activity of the Sirtuin 1 (sirt1) promoter in vitro as an indicator of their therapeutic effect. Our data suggested that hot water Saikokeishikankyoto (SKK) extracts increased sirt1 transcriptional activity in vitro, identifying it as a candidate therapeutic for evaluation in the KKAy type 2 diabetic obesity mouse model. These in vivo evaluations revealed that SKK treatment increased the wet weight and muscle fiber content in cross sections of the gastrocnemius muscle (GA) and restored motor function in these animals. In addition, SKK treatment reduced tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα) expression in the sera and suppressed Atrogin1 and MuRF1 transcription in the GA samples. This treatment also increased sirt1 expression in these tissues. These results suggest that SKK inhibits skeletal muscle atrophy and improves motor function in KKAy mice by suppressing inflammation. In actual clinical practice, SKK is expected to inhibit muscle atrophy and improve motor dysfunction in sarcopenic obesity.

Graphical abstract
Responsibility through Anticipation? The ‘Future Talk’ and the Quest for Plausibility in the Governance of Emerging Technologies
Authors: Urueña Sergio
Published: January 2022

In anticipatory governance (AG) and responsible innovation (RI), anticipation is a key theoretical and practical dimension for promoting a more responsible governance of new and emerging sciences and technologies. Yet, anticipation has been subjected to a range of criticisms, such that many now see it as unnecessary for AG and RI. According to Alfred Nordmann, practices engaging with ‘the future’, when performed under certain conditions, may reify the future, diminish our ability to see what is happening, and/or reproduce the illusion of control over the future. Several authors have stressed that these critiques fail to capture the heterogeneous character of anticipatory practices, and yet research on the question of what particular kind of socio-epistemic engagements with ‘the future’ AG and RI aim to enact through anticipation remains fragmentary and their underlying rationale under-theorised. This article aims to advance the theoretical characterisation and problematisation of anticipation as key interventive tools for AG and RI. By distinguishing between four modes of anticipation and heuristically testing them against Nordmann’s critiques, the article argues that despite his assessment failing to recognise the heterogeneity of anticipatory practices considered valuable for AG and RI, it reinforces the relevance of performing certain modes of anticipatory exercises, namely critical-hermeneutic ones. Thus, anticipation continues to be a necessary heuristic dimension for AG and RI. More concretely, the article maintains that such anticipatory heuristics may find their radical constructive and critical-reflective character in the dynamics of inclusive scrutiny and negotiation about the (im)plausibility and (un)desirability of the envisioned or (co-)created futures.
Im Osten was Neues – Agile Transformation bei KOMSA
Authors: Urbon Pierre-Pascal
Published: January 2022

Der europäische ITK-Dienstleister KOMSA setzte unter Führung des neuen Vorstandsvorsitzenden und Finanzvorstands Pierre-Pascal Urbon mit dem Projekt Transformation 2020 in nur 7 Monaten die größte Veränderung seit der Unternehmensgründung um. Mit den Ideen und Impulsen der Mitarbeiter hat KOMSA die Komplexität reduziert und eine neue Führungs- und Steuerungsfunktion eingeführt. Im Rahmen des Projekts führte der Vorstand eine Leadership Journey durch, um ein neues Führungsverständnis zu vermitteln. Die Umsetzung erfolgte mit agilen Methoden, sowohl vor Ort als auch aus dem Home-Office. Der Artikel beschreibt die Ausgangslage, die Mentalität der Mitarbeiter des sächsischen Familienunternehmens, den Prozess sowie die Sichtweisen der Aufsichtsratsvorsitzenden Kerstin Grosse und der Führungskraft Andrea Fiedler-Braunschweig.
Ecosystem services and disservices in the Luanhe River Basin in China under past, current and future land uses: implications for the sustainable development goals
Authors: Xu Jiren , Barrett Brian , Renaud Fabrice G.
Published: January 2022

Understanding how ecosystem services (ES) and ecosystem disservices (EDS) are affected by human-induced landscape changes is important to minimise trade-offs and maximise synergies between Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and targets, and for equitable development across governance scales. However, limited research investigates how ES and EDS can change under past, current, and future land uses. This study, conducted in the Luanhe River Basin (LRB), demonstrates the interaction between humans and the environment under past, current, and future land uses at the river basin scale in China, using a stakeholders’ participatory capacity matrix to characterise both ES and EDS. Results indicate that forests and water bodies provided the highest overall ES capacity, while the lowest scores were reached in built-up and unused land areas. Built-up land and cropland provided the highest overall EDS, while the lowest EDS scores were for water bodies. By applying the ecosystem services potential index (ESPI) and ecosystem disservices potential index (EDSPI), we found that the ESPI of all the ES declined from 1980 to 2018 and would continue to decline until 2030 without sustainable and conservation development strategies in the LRB. The EDSPI under all future scenarios in 2030 was projected to increase compared to the baseline in 1980. This study recommends establishing and implementing sustainable environmental protection policies and cross-regional and trans-provincial eco-compensation schemes for minimising trade-offs in ES. The study proposes an integrated research framework that could be useful for understanding the effect of historical and future human–environment interactions on ES and EDS, and SDGs achievement.
One surgeon’s experience with r-TAPP: a retrospective analysis of 150 consecutive robotic inguinal hernia cases
Authors: Florin Jorge L. , Bianchi Valeria , Wiggan Daniel D.
Published: January 2022

There is a tremendous paucity of literatures regarding the long-term surgical outcomes of the r-TAPP procedure for inguinal hernia repair. Additionally, much of the existing literatures regarding this procedure have limited follow-up of to 12 months. This article presents the outcomes of 150 consecutive r-TAPP inguinal hernia repairs performed on 111 patients using Progrip mesh without fixation, with up to 24 months of follow-up. The initial 150 consecutive r-TAPP inguinal hernia repairs were performed from February 2017 to April 2018 using Progrip without fixation. All patients were seen at 2 weeks, followed by phone follow-up at 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years. Of the 111 patients, 39 had bilateral hernias (35%) and 72 had unilateral hernias (65%). The age range was 18–93 years. The BMI range was 20.7–50.2, with a mean of 26.4 and median of 25.8. Total operative time ranged from 28 to 138 min with a mean of 62.4 min and median of 56 min. ASA classification ranged from 1 to 4, with a mean of 2.1. No significant blood loss was observed in any of the cases. There were no conversions to open surgery. All patients were discharged the same day of the operation. We were able to follow up with 100% of the hernias at 2 weeks, 88% at 6 months, 87% at 1 year, and 80% at 2 years. No recurrences were recorded at 2 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, or 2 years. There were no reports of chronic pain up to 2 years in any of the patients. These results indicate that r-TAPP inguinal hernia repair using Progrip without further fixation is safe, effective, and can be performed with minimal recurrences or chronic pain.
$$\alpha $$-Firmly nonexpansive operators on metric spaces
Authors: Bërdëllima Arian , Lauster Florian , Luke D. Russell
Published: January 2022

We extend to p-uniformly convex spaces tools from the analysis of fixed point iterations in linear spaces. This study is restricted to an appropriate generalization of single-valued, pointwise averaged mappings. Our main contribution is establishing a calculus for these mappings in p-uniformly convex spaces, showing in particular how the property is preserved under compositions and convex combinations. This is of central importance to splitting algorithms that are built by such convex combinations and compositions, and reduces the convergence analysis to simply verifying that the individual components have the required regularity pointwise at fixed points of the splitting algorithms. Our convergence analysis differs from what can be found in the previous literature in that the regularity assumptions are only with respect to fixed points. Indeed we show that, if the fixed point mapping is pointwise nonexpansive at all cluster points, then these cluster points are in fact fixed points, and convergence of the sequence follows. Additionally, we provide a quantitative convergence analysis built on the notion of gauge metric subregularity, which we show is necessary for quantifiable convergence estimates. This allows one for the first time to prove convergence of a tremendous variety of splitting algorithms in spaces with curvature bounded from above.
Thyroid Carcinoma with NSD3::NUTM1 Fusion: a Case with Thyrocyte Differentiation and Colloid Production
Authors: Allison Derek B. , Rueckert Justin , Cornea Virgilius , Lee Cortney Y. , Dueber Julie , Bocklage Therese
Published: January 2022

In this report, we present a high-grade thyroid carcinoma with an NSD3::NUTM1 fusion detected on expanded next-generation sequencing testing. Nuclear protein of the testis (NUT) carcinomas comprise high-grade, aggressive tumors characterized by rearrangements of the NUTM1 gene with various partner genes, most commonly the bromodomain protein genes BRD4 and BRD3. Approximately 10% of NUT carcinomas contain an NSD3::NUTM1 fusion. NUT carcinomas manifest as poorly differentiated or undifferentiated squamous carcinomas, and 33% show areas of mature squamous differentiation. Only exceptionally have NUT carcinomas shown histology discordant from poorly differentiated/undifferentiated squamous carcinoma, and a thyroid NUT carcinoma with histologic thyrocyte differentiation has not been described to date. Our patient’s tumor exhibited mixed cytologic features suggestive of squamoid cells or papillary thyroid carcinoma cells. Overt squamous differentiation was absent, and the tumor produced colloid in poorly formed follicles. Immunophenotypically, the carcinoma was consistent with thyrocyte differentiation with expression of monoclonal PAX8, TTF1, and thyroglobulin (the last predominantly in extracellular colloid). There was zero to < 2% reactivity for proteins typically diffusely expressed in NUT carcinoma: p40, p63, and cytokeratins 5/6. NUT protein expression was equivocal, but fluorescence in situ hybridization confirmed a NUTM1 rearrangement. This exceptional case suggests that NUTM1 fusions may occur in an unknown number of aggressive thyroid carcinomas, possibly with distinctive histologic features but with thyrocyte differentiation. Recognition of this entity potentially has significant prognostic implications. Moreover, thyroid carcinomas with NUTM1 fusions may be amenable to treatment with NUT carcinoma-targeted therapy such as a bromodomain and extraterminal domain protein small molecular inhibitor (BETi).
Trajectories of subject-interests development and influence factors in higher education
Authors: Wild Steffen
Published: January 2022

It is a well-studied phenomenon, that throughout the course of studying at university, the motivation for the study program decreases. Correlation between motivation and learners’ behaviour, for example the learning process, achievement or, in the worst case, dropout exist. So there is a need for understanding the development of motivation in detail, like that of subject-interests, and for identifying influence factors, especially for higher education. This panel study examined the development of 4,345 students in higher education. Growth mixture models for subject-interests identify two classes of trajectories: “descending interest” and “continuously high interest”. In a next step, the analysis shows that gender, university entrance score, academic field and occupational aspiration influence membership of the classes. The results are discussed with respect to their consequences for education programs, but also with respect to possible new research questions.
Cause-related marketing: a systematic review of the literature
Authors: Bhatti Hina Yaqub , Galan-Ladero M. Mercedes , Galera-Casquet Clementina
Published: January 2022

Cause-Related Marketing (CRM) is one of the most versatile activities among the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. Though CRM is extensively researched, however, only a few authors have performed systematic literature reviews on CRM. Therefore, more systematic reviews of CRM are still needed to complete and bring together the more contributions, advances, and different existing research lines. Thus, this paper provides a comprehensive overview of the existing literature in CRM from the two keywords: “Cause-Related Marketing” and “Cause Marketing”, and the time period ranges from 1988 to 2020. In this study, rigorous protocol is used in synthesizing 344 English articles drawing upon e-journal database searches. These articles were categorized by time-wise development, country-wise development, methodological development, cross-cultural analysis, the role of journals. This study also carried out the Bibliometric Analyses. The review highlights that the concept of CRM has evolved from being considered a marketing mix tool (a promotion tool), to being considered as a CSR initiative, with a more strategic character. Our findings revealed that only a few journals published articles on CRM. Geographically, the CRM study was initiated in North America, followed by Europe and Oceania, and Asian and Sub-Saharan African countries. From the third decade, there was more collaboration in cross-cultural studies and the use of mixed-method (qualitative and quantitative studies) approach. Lastly, this study shows the most manifest research gaps in CRM that opens avenue for future research.
Dense Tissue Pattern Characterization Using Deep Neural Network
Authors: Kumar Indrajeet , Kumar Abhishek , Kumar V D Ambeth , Kannan Ramani , Vimal Vrince , Singh Kamred Udham , Mahmud Mufti
Published: January 2022

Breast tumors are from the common infections among women around the world. Classifying the various types of breast tumors contribute to treating breast tumors more efficiently. However, this classification task is often hindered by dense tissue patterns captured in mammograms. The present study has been proposed a dense tissue pattern characterization framework using deep neural network. A total of 322 mammograms belonging to the mini-MIAS dataset and 4880 mammograms from DDSM dataset have been taken, and an ROI of fixed size 224 × 224 pixels from each mammogram has been extracted. In this work, tedious experimentation has been executed using different combinations of training and testing sets using different activation function withAlexNet,ResNet-18model. Data augmentation has been used to create a similar type of virtual image for proper training of the DL model. After that, the testing set is applied on the trained model to validate the proposed model. During experiments, four different activation functions ‘sigmoid’, ‘tanh’, ‘ReLu’, and ‘leakyReLu’ are used, and the outcome for each function has been reported. It has been found that activation function ‘ReLu’ perform always outstanding with respect to others. For each experiment, classification accuracy and kappa coefficient have been computed. The obtained accuracy and kappa value for MIAS dataset usingResNet-18model is 91.3% and 0.803, respectively. For DDSM dataset, the accuracy of 92.3% and kappa coefficient value of 0.846 are achieved. After the combination of both dataset images, the achieved accuracy is 91.9%, and kappa coefficient value is 0.839 usingResNet-18model. Finally, it has been concluded that theResNet-18model andReLuactivation function yield outstanding performance for the task.
RETALT_TPS design and manufacturing
Authors: Paixão Sofia , Peixoto Cláudia , Reinas Marta , Carvalho João
Published: January 2022

The present document discusses the development of a new trowelable Thermal Protection System (TPS), able of being mixed, applied and cured directly onto the vehicle structure, with the aim to fulfill the requirements of the thermal properties for the re-usable launch vehicle studied in the Retro Propulsion Landing Technology (RETALT) project. During the development of this TPS, several formula optimizations were made to improve or eliminate cracks in the char surface, increase char stiffness, rheological adjustments, and adhesion improvement to different substrates. The most promising material developed is composed by cork and epoxy resin, together with a set of rheological and thermal resistance additives, that makes it possible to be applied with a spatula, while at the same time it is able to withstand the demanding environmental conditions during atmospheric reentry. In terms of thermal properties, the developed material has a higher thermal conductivity than the current P50 TPS commercialized by Amorim Cork Composites (ACC), but it has a better behavior when exposed to flame conditions. It is expected that the absence of cracks improves its structure and resistance to demanding conditions. The development work included a detailed study of the composition and processes required for the development of a TPS material, which were evaluated by several types of flame characterization tests and thermal properties analysis.
Involvement of FoxO1, Sp1, and Nrf2 in Upregulation of Negative Regulator of ROS by 15d-PGJ2 Attenuates H2O2-Induced IL-6 Expression in Rat Brain Astrocytes
Authors: Wang Chen-Yu , Yang Chien-Chung , Hsiao Li-Der , Yang Chuen-Mao
Published: January 2022

Excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by NADPH oxidase (Nox) resulted in inflammation. The negative regulator of ROS (NRROS) dampens ROS generation during inflammatory responses. 15-Deoxy-∆12,14-prostaglandin J2 (15d-PGJ2) exhibits neuroprotective effects on central nervous system (CNS). However, whether 15d-PGJ2-induced NRROS expression was unknown in rat brain astrocytes (RBA-1). NRROS expression was determined by Western blot, RT/real-time PCR, and promoter activity assays. The signaling components were investigated using pharmacological inhibitors or specific siRNAs. The interaction between transcription factors and the NRROS promoter was investigated by chromatin immunoprecipitation assay. Upregulation of NRROS on the hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-mediated ROS generation and interleukin 6 (IL-6) secretion was measured. 15d-PGJ2-induced NRROS expression was mediated through PI3K/Akt-dependent activation of Sp1 and FoxO1 and established the essential promoter regions. We demonstrated that 15d-PGJ2 activated PI3K/Akt and following by cooperation between phosphorylated nuclear FoxO1 and Sp1 to initiate the NRROS transcription. In addition, Nrf2 played a key role in NRROS expression induced by 15d-PGJ2 which was mediated through its phosphorylation. Finally, the NRROS stable clones attenuated the H2O2-induced ROS generation and expression of IL-6 through suppressing the Nox-2 activity. These results suggested that 15d-PGJ2-induced NRROS expression is mediated through a PI3K/Akt-dependent FoxO1 and Sp1 phosphorylation, and Nrf2 cascade, which suppresses ROS generation through attenuating the p47phox phosphorylation and gp91phox formation and IL-6 expression in RBA-1 cells. These results confirmed the mechanisms underlying 15d-PGJ2-induced NRROS expression which might be a potential strategy for prevention and management of brain inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases.
Effects of Self-compassion on Diurnal Cortisol Pattern via Positive Affect in Colorectal Cancer Survivors
Authors: Ho Rainbow T. H. , Fong Ted C. T. , Wan Adrian H. Y.
Published: January 2022

Objectives

Colorectal cancer survivors are at risks of emotional distress and dysregulated diurnal cortisol rhythms. Dispositional self-compassion has been linked with better psychological adjustment and greater positive affect. This study evaluated the associations between self-compassion and the diurnal cortisol pattern, and the role of positive affect and emotional distress in mediating this association, in cancer patients.

Methods

This longitudinal study recruited 127 Chinese colorectal cancer survivors, who completed assessments for self-compassion, positive affect, emotional distress, and naturalistic salivary cortisol at baseline. The participants completed follow-up assessments for affect and emotional distress after 2 months (time 2) and the diurnal cortisol pattern after 8 months (time 3). Bootstrapped mediation analysis analyzed the direct and indirect effects of self-compassion on the diurnal cortisol pattern via positive affect and emotional distress.

Results

A structural equation model with latent factors of self-compassion, self-criticism, and emotional distress provided an adequate fit to the data. The direct effects of self-compassion and self-criticism on the diurnal cortisol pattern were not significant (p = 0.11–0.50). Positive affect, but not emotional distress, at time 2 significantly predicted steeper diurnal cortisol slopes at time 3 (β = − 0.22, SE = 0.08, p < 0.01). Self-compassion and self-criticism showed significant negative and positive indirect effects on time 3 diurnal cortisol slopes via time 2 positive affect, respectively.

Conclusions

Our findings support indirect linkages between self-compassion and steeper diurnal cortisol slopes via positive affect. Positive affect may mediate temporal relationships between self-compassion and neuroendocrine functioning in colorectal cancer survivors.
Effects of Decentering and Non-judgement on Body Dissatisfaction and Negative Affect Among Young Adult Women
Authors: Osborne Emma L. , Atkinson Melissa J.
Published: January 2022

Objectives

Mindfulness-based interventions have shown effectiveness in reducing risk factors for disordered eating; however, little is known about mechanisms. This online study evaluated two isolated metacognitive components of mindfulness, adopting a decentered or non-judgemental stance towards internal experiences, respectively, for reducing body dissatisfaction and negative affect.

Methods

Women (N = 330, Mage = 25.18, SD = 4.44) viewed appearance-ideal media images before listening to a 5-min audio recording that guided them to (a) distance themselves from their experience (decentering), (b) accept their experience without judgement (non-judgement), or (c) rest (active control). Participants reported state body dissatisfaction and negative affect at baseline, post-media exposure, and final assessment. Trait measurements (weight and shape concerns, mindfulness, emotion regulation) were assessed as potential moderators. Participants self-reported engagement and acceptability.

Results

All groups reported significant reductions in body dissatisfaction and negative affect following the recording (d = 0.15–0.38, p < 0.001), with no between-group differences. Trait measurements did not moderate effects.

Conclusions

The results suggest rest was as effective as the metacognitive components in ameliorating immediate negative impacts of appearance-related threats. Alternatively, coping strategies spontaneously adopted by the control group may have supplied temporary relief. Findings highlight the importance of including suitable control; further research should investigate when and for whom specific aspects of mindfulness-based interventions may be particularly helpful.
Factors associated with positive predictive value of preliminary screening in a two-step screening strategy for colorectal neoplasms in China
Authors: Li Ji-Bin , Qiu Zhi-Yu , Deng Yu-Xiang , Li Yin , Lin Zhuo-Chen , Wu Yan-Ping , Weng Fan , Tian Huan , Ou Qing-Jian , Gong Cheng-Hua , Pan Zhi-Zhong , Wan De-Sen , Peng Jian-Hong , Fang Yu-Jing
Published: January 2022

Background

The positive predictive value (PPV) of high risk factor questionnaire (HRFQ) plus fecal immunochemical test (FIT) as preliminary screening strategy for colorectal-related neoplasia is relatively low. We aim to explore independent factors associated with PPVs of HRFQ combined FIT for selecting high risk individuals for colonoscopy.

Methods

A total of 6971 residents were enrolled in a community-based screening program. Participants who had positive results of HRFQ and/or FIT and subsequently received colonoscopy were involved. The associations of socio-demographic factors, lifestyle behaviors, and high risk factors of colorectal cancer with PPVs of HRFQ, FIT, and their combination were evaluated by multivariable logistic regression models.

Results

Among 572 involved cases, 249 (43.5%) colorectal neoplasms were detected by colonoscopy, including 71 advanced adenoma (12.4%) and 9 colorectal cancer (CRC) (1.6%). The PPVs of preliminary screening were 43.5% for total colorectal neoplasms, 14.0% for advanced neoplasm, and 1.6% for CRC. Adding positive HRFQ to FIT could improve the PPV from 3.5 to 8.0% for detecting CRC. Preliminarily screened positive individuals who were males [adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 1.95, 95% CI 1.31, 2.90; p  < 0.001], elders (> 60 years) (AOR: 1.70, 95% CI 1.17, 2.46; p  = 0.005), or ex-/current smokers (AOR: 3.04, 95% CI 1.31, 7.09; p  = 0.10) had higher odds of PPVs of detecting colorectal neoplasms.

Conclusions

Combining HRFQ and FIT could largely improve PPVs for screening advanced neoplasm and CRC. Gender and age-specific FIT cut-off values as well as initiating ages for CRC screening might be recommended to improve the accuracy and effectiveness of current screening algorithm.
DCE-MRI radiomics nomogram can predict response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in esophageal cancer
Authors: Qu Jinrong , Ma Ling , Lu Yanan , Wang Zhaoqi , Guo Jia , Zhang Hongkai , Yan Xu , Liu Hui , Kamel Ihab R. , Qin Jianjun , Li Hailiang
Published: January 2022

Objectives

To assess volumetric DCE-MRI radiomics nomogram in predicting response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (nCT) in EC patients.

Methods

This retrospective analysis of a prospective study enrolled EC patients with stage cT1N + M0 or cT2-4aN0-3M0 who received DCE-MRI within 7 days before chemotherapy, followed by surgery. Response assessment was graded from 1 to 5 according to the tumor regression grade (TRG). Patients were stratified into responders (TRG1 + 2) and non-responders (TRG3 + 4 + 5). 72 radiomics features and vascular permeability parameters were extracted from DCE-MRI. The discriminating performance was assessed with ROC. Decision curve analysis (DCA) was used for comparing three different models.

Results

This cohort included 82 patients, and 72 tumor radiomics features and vascular permeability parameters acquired from DCE-MRI. mRMR and LASSO were performed to choose the optimized subset of radiomics features, and 3 features were selected to create the radiomics signature that were significantly associated with response (P < 0.001). AUC of combining radiomics signature and DCE-MRI performance in the training (n = 41) and validation (n = 41) cohort was 0.84 (95% CI 0.57–1) and 0.86 (95% CI 0.74–0.97), respectively. This combined model showed the best discrimination between responders and non-responders, and showed the highest positive and positive predictive value in both training set and test set.

Conclusions

The radiomics features are useful for nCT response prediction in EC patients.
How to Incorporate Non-Epistemic Values into a Theory of Classification
Authors: Reydon Thomas A. C. , Ereshefsky Marc
Published: January 2022

Non-epistemic values play important roles in classificatory practice, such that philosophical accounts of kinds and classification should be able to accommodate them. Available accounts fail to do so, however. Our aim is to fill this lacuna by showing how non-epistemic values feature in scientific classification, and how they can be incorporated into a philosophical theory of classification and kinds. To achieve this, we present a novel account of kinds and classification (theGrounded Functionality Account), discuss examples from biological classification where non-epistemic values play decisive roles, and show how this account accommodates the role of non-epistemic values.
Treatment of MIS-C in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Mahmoud Sanaa , El-Kalliny Mostafa , Kotby Alyaa , El-Ganzoury Mona , Fouda Eman , Ibrahim Hanan
Published: January 2022

Purpose of Review

Different treatment approaches have been described for the management of COVID-19-related multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), the pathogenesis of which has not yet been fully elucidated. Here, we comprehensively review and summarize the recommendations and management strategies that have been published to date.

Recent Findings

MIS-C patients are treated with different regimens, mostly revolving around the use of immunomodulatory medications, including IVIG and glucocorticoids as first-tier therapy. Refractoriness to IVIG and glucocorticoids warrants a step-up of immunomodulatory therapy to biologic agents such as anakinra, tocilizumab, and infliximab.

We review the current evidence regarding the use of monotherapy versus combination therapy, as well as the current recommendations for assessing thrombotic risk and administering antiplatelet and anticoagulant therapy. We anticipate that future studies will provide evidence for management plans that maximize short- and long-term outcomes.
GENERIC-compliant simulations of Brownian multi-particle systems: modeling stochastic lubrication
Authors: Vázquez-Quesada Adolfo , Ellero Marco
Published: January 2022

A stochastic Lagrangian model for simulating the dynamics and rheology of a Brownian multi-particle system interacting with a simple liquid medium is presented. The discrete particle model is formulated within the GENERIC framework for Non-Equilibrium Thermodynamics and therefore it satisfies discretely the First/Second Laws of Thermodynamics and the Fluctuation Dissipation Theorem (FDT). Long-range fluctuating hydrodynamics interactions between suspended particles are described by an explicit solvent model. To this purpose, the Smoothed Dissipative Particle Dynamics method is adopted, which is a GENERIC-compliant Lagrangian meshless discretization of the fluctuating Navier–Stokes equations. In dense multi-particle systems, the average inter-particle distance is typically small compared to the particle size and short-range hydrodynamics interactions play a major role. In order to bypass an explicit—computationally costly—solution for these forces, a lubrication correction is introduced based on semi-analytical expressions for spheres under Stokes flow conditions. We generalize here the lubrication formalism to Brownian conditions, where an additional thermal-lubrication contribution needs to be taken into account in a way that discretely satisfies FDT. The coupled lubrication dynamics is integrated in time using a generalized semi-implicit splitting scheme for stochastic differential equations. The model is finally validated for a single particle diffusion as well as for a Brownian multi-particle system under homogeneous shear flow. Results for the diffusional properties as well as the rheological behavior of the whole suspension are presented and discussed.
Problems, assumptions and solutions in locomotive design, traction and operational studies
Authors: Spiryagin Maksym , Wu Qing , Polach Oldrich , Thorburn John , Chua Wenhsi , Spiryagin Valentyn , Stichel Sebastian , Shrestha Sundar , Bernal Esteban , Ahmad Sanjar , Cole Colin , McSweeney Tim
Published: January 2022

Locomotive design is a highly complex task that requires the use of systems engineering that depends upon knowledge from a range of disciplines and is strongly oriented on how to design and manage complex systems that operate under a wide range of different train operational conditions on various types of tracks. Considering that field investigation programs for locomotive operational scenarios involve high costs and cause disruption of train operations on real railway networks and given recent developments in the rollingstock compliance standards in Australia and overseas that allow the assessment of some aspects of rail vehicle behaviour through computer simulations, a great number of multidisciplinary research studies have been performed and these can contribute to further improvement of a locomotive design technique by increasing the amount of computer-based studies. This paper was focused on the presentation of the all-important key components required for locomotive studies, starting from developing a realistic locomotive design model, its validation and further applications for train studies. The integration of all engineering disciplines is achieved by means of advanced simulation approaches that can incorporate existing AC and DC locomotive designs, hybrid locomotive designs, full locomotive traction system models, rail friction processes, the application of simplified and exact wheel-rail contact theories, wheel-rail wear and rolling contact fatigue, train dynamic behaviour and in-train forces, comprehensive track infrastructure details, and the use of co-simulation and parallel computing. The co-simulation and parallel computing approaches that have been implemented on Central Queensland University’s High-Performance Computing cluster for locomotive studies will be presented. The confidence in these approaches is based on specific validation procedures that include a locomotive model acceptance procedure and field test data. The problems and limitations presented in locomotive traction studies in the way they are conducted at the present time are summarised and discussed.
Railway ground vibration and mitigation measures: benchmarking of best practices
Authors: Ouakka Slimane , Verlinden Olivier , Kouroussis Georges
Published: January 2022

Vibration and noise aspects play a relevant role in the lifetime and comfort of urban areas and their residents. Among the different sources, the one coming from the rail transit system will play a central concern in the following years due to its sustainability. Ground-borne vibration and noise assessment as well as techniques to mitigate them become key elements of the environmental impact and the global enlargement planned for the railway industry. This paper aims to describe and compare the different mitigation systems existing and reported in literature through a comprehensive state of the art analysis providing the performance of each measure. First, an introduction to the ground-borne vibration and noise generated from the wheel-rail contact and its propagation through the transmission path is presented. Then, the impact and the different ways of evaluating and assessing these effects are presented, and the insertion loss indicator is introduced. Next, the different mitigation measures at different levels (vehicle, track, transmission path and receiver) are discussed by describing their possible application and their efficiency in terms of insertion loss. Finally, a summary with inputs of how it is possible to address the future of mitigation systems is reported.
Diagnostic Evaluation of the Posterior Fossa with Antenatal and Post-Mortem MRI: An Unfolded View
Authors: Gupta Neetika , Martinez-Rios Claudia , El Demellawy Dina , Barrowman Nick , Miller Elka
Published: January 2022

The role of post-mortem fetal conventional autopsy (CA) is undisputed but poses challenges with small, macerated bodies, and increasing parental refusal. Fetal post-mortem magnetic resonance imaging (PMMRI) is a less invasive alternative that can be used for assessment of the brain, including the posterior fossa (PF) structures. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the imaging characteristics of the PF in PMMRI compared to antenatal MRI (ANMRI), using CA as the gold standard. A retrospective, single-center study of ten fetuses who underwent ANMRI, PMMRI, and CA from August 2010 to May 2018. The PF structures were evaluated qualitatively for imaging findings, and quantitatively by obtaining the transcerebellar diameter, vermian length, brainstem thickness, width of the fourth ventricle and cisterna magna, skull base angles, and PF volume. Twenty MRI exams were included. The median gestational age of ANMRI was 21.7 weeks. The median age at termination of pregnancy (TOP) and PMMRI was 23.7 weeks. There was good congruence between PMMRI, ANMRI, and CA, with 60% complete congruence and 40% partial congruence between ANMRI and PMMRI. PMMRI and CA showed 70% complete congruence, and 20% partial congruence. No incongruence was noted. PF evaluation on CA was not possible in 1 case due to maceration. Quantitative evaluation in PMMRI showed significant enlargement of most PF structures compared to ANMRI and smaller CSF-filled spaces (p value < 0.05). PMMRI is an acceptable imaging modality for the macroscopic evaluation of PF structures. Smaller CSF-filled spaces and enlargement of the brain are expected findings when evaluating PMMRI.
Implementation of Client-Centered Care Coordination for HIV Prevention with Black Men Who Have Sex with Men: Activities, Personnel Costs, and Outcomes—HPTN 073
Authors: Whitfield Darren L. , Nelson LaRon E. , Komárek Arnošt , Turner DeAnne , Ni Zhao , Boyd Donte T. , Taggart Tamara , Ramos S. Raquel , Wilton Leo , Beauchamp Geetha G. , Hightow-Weidman Lisa , Shoptaw Steven J. , Magnus Manya , Mayer Kenneth H. , Fields Sheldon D. , Wheeler Darrell P. ,   for the H. I. V. Prevention Trials Network (HPTN) 073 Study Team
Published: January 2022

Background

Black men who have sex with men (MSM) experience disproportionate rates of HIV infection in the USA, despite being no more likely to engage in sexual risk behaviors than other MSM racial/ethnic groups. HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has been shown to reduce risk of HIV acquisition; however, rates of PrEP use among Black MSM remain low. Clinical, psychosocial, and structural factors have been shown to impact PrEP use and adherence among Black MSM. Care coordination of HIV prevention services has the potential to improve PrEP use and adherence for Black MSM, as it has been shown to improve HIV-related care outcomes among people living with HIV.

Methods

Client-centered care coordination (C4) is a multi-level intervention designed to address clinical, psychosocial, and structural barriers to HIV prevention services for Black MSM within HPTN 073, a PrEP demonstration project among Black MSM in three cities in the USA. The current study examined the implementation process of C4, specifically investigating the activities, cost, time, and outcomes associated with the C4 intervention.

Results

On average, participants engaged in five care coordination encounters. The vast majority of care coordination activities were conducted by counselors, averaging 30 min per encounter. The cost of care coordination was relatively low with a mean cost of $8.70 per client encounter.

Conclusion

Although client-centered care coordination was initially implemented in well-resourced communities with robust HIV research and service infrastructure, our findings suggest that C4 can be successfully implemented in resource constrained communities.
External validation of prognostic models for chronic kidney disease among type 2 diabetes
Authors: Saputro Sigit Ari , Pattanateepapon Anuchate , Pattanaprateep Oraluck , Aekplakorn Wichai , McKay Gareth J. , Attia John , Thakkinstian Ammarin
Published: January 2022

Background

Various prognostic models have been derived to predict chronic kidney disease (CKD) development in type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, their generalisability and predictive performance in different populations remain largely unvalidated. This study aimed to externally validate several prognostic models of CKD in a T2D Thai cohort.

Methods

A nationwide survey was linked with hospital databases to create a prospective cohort of patients with diabetes (n = 3416). We undertook a systematic review to identify prognostic models and traditional metrics (i.e., discrimination and calibration) to compare model performance for CKD prediction. We updated prognostic models by including additional clinical parameters to optimise model performance in the Thai setting.

Results

Six relevant previously published models were identified. At baseline, C-statistics ranged from 0.585 (0.565–0.605) to 0.786 (0.765–0.806) for CKD and 0.657 (0.610–0.703) to 0.760 (0.705–0.816) for end-stage renal disease (ESRD). All original CKD models showed fair calibration with Observed/Expected (O/E) ratios ranging from 0.999 (0.975–1.024) to 1.009 (0.929–1.090). Hosmer–Lemeshow tests indicated a good fit for all models. The addition of routine clinical factors (i.e., glucose level and oral diabetes medications) enhanced model prediction by improved C-statistics of Low’s of 0.114 for CKD and Elley’s of 0.025 for ESRD.

Conclusions

All models showed moderate discrimination and fair calibration. Updating models to include routine clinical factors substantially enhanced their accuracy. Low’s (developed in Singapore) and Elley’s model (developed in New Zealand), outperformed the other models evaluated. These models can assist clinicians to improve the risk-stratification of diabetic patients for CKD and/or ESRD in the regions settings are similar to Thailand.

Graphical abstract
Non-accidental Trauma in Infants: a Review of Evidence-Based Strategies for Diagnosis, Management, and Prevention
Authors: Delaplain Patrick T. , Guner Yigit S. , Rood Corey J. , Nahmias Jeffry
Published: January 2022

Purpose of Review

To provide a resource for providers that may be involved in the diagnosis and management of infant non-accidental trauma (NAT).

Recent Findings

Infants are more likely to both suffer from physical abuse and die from their subsequent injuries. There are missed opportunities among providers for recognizing sentinel injuries. Minority children are overrepresented in the reporting of child maltreatment, and there is systemic bias in the evaluation and treatment of minority victims of child abuse.

Unfortunately, no single, primary preventative intervention has been conclusively shown to reduce the incidence of child maltreatment. Standardized algorithms for NAT screening have been shown to increase the bias-free utilization of NAT evaluations. Every healthcare provider that interacts with children has a responsibility to recognize warning signs of NAT, be able to initiate the evaluation for suspected NAT, and understand their role as a mandatory reporter.
Urologische Facharztausbildung – Gegenwart und Zukunft
Authors: Graf Sebastian , Otto Dominik
Published: January 2022

Die Urologie als kleines, innovatives Fachgebiet durchläuft manche Entwicklungen, bevor diese auf die gesamte Medizin übergehen. Wie auch die gesamte Medizin ist die Urologie einer konstanten Veränderung und Neuerfindung unterworfen. Zum intrinsischen Veränderungsantrieb gesellen sich in letzter Zeit auch verstärkt epidemiologische, politische und auch allgemein gesellschaftliche Faktoren. Eine immanente Bühne für diese Entwicklung ist die Facharztausbildung. Dort ragen aber die Anforderungen und die Praxis immer weiter auseinander, wie rezente Erhebungen unter Assistenzärztinnen und Assistenzärzten zeigen.

Anpassungen an diese neuen Gegebenheiten sind also notwendig, ebenso wie belastbare Zukunftsaussichten. Diese werden nicht von selbst geschehen, doch glücklicherweise lassen sich schon heute wichtige Weichenstellungen erkennen.
Natural Fibre Insulation Materials: Use of Textile and Agri-food Waste in a Circular Economy Perspective
Authors: Savio Lorenzo , Pennacchio Roberto , Patrucco Alessia , Manni Valentino , Bosia Daniela
Published: January 2022

Fibrous materials are among those most used for the thermal and acoustic insulation of building envelopes and are also suitable for a wide range of applications. In building construction, the demand for products with low environmental impact — in line with the Green Deal challenge of the European Community — is growing, but the building market is still mostly oriented towards traditional products, missing the many opportunities for using waste materials from existing industrial production. The paper presents the experimental results of new thermal and acoustic insulation products for building construction and interior design, based on previous experiences of the research group. They are produced entirely using waste sheep’s wool as a “matrix” and other waste fibres as “fillers”. The materials proposed originate from textile and agri-industrial chains in the Piedmont region and have no uses other than waste-to-heat biomass. The panels have characteristics of rigidity, workability, and thermal conductivity that make them suitable for building envelope insulation.
Robotic Systems in Radiotherapy and Radiosurgery
Authors: Gerlach Stefan , Schlaefer Alexander
Published: January 2022

Purpose of Review

This review provides an overview of robotic systems in radiotherapy and radiosurgery, with a focus on medical devices and recently proposed research systems. We summarize the key motivation for using robotic systems and illustrate the potential advantages.

Recent Findings.

Robotic systems have been proposed for a variety of tasks in radiotherapy, including the positioning of beam source, patients, and imaging devices. A number of systems are cleared for use in patients, and some are widely used, particularly for beam and patient positioning.

The need for precise and safe delivery of focused high doses to the target region motivates the use of robots in radiotherapy. Flexibility in the arrangement of beams and the ability to compensate for target motion are key advantages of robotic systems. While robotic patient couches are widely used and robotic beam positioning is well established, brachytherapy robots are mostly considered in a research context.
Management and Outcomes of Bilateral Acetabular Fractures: A Critical Review of the Literature
Authors: Mousafeiris Vasileios K. , Vasilopoulou Anastasia , Chloros George D. , Panteli Michalis , Giannoudis Peter V.
Published: January 2022

Background

Bilateral acetabular fractures constitute a rare entity, and their optimal management is unknown.

Materials and Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library between 1995 and 2020. Inclusion criteria were studies presenting cases of bilateral acetabular fractures and reporting outcomes. Extracted data included patient demographics, injury mechanism, fracture classification, associated injuries, management and outcomes.

Results

Thirty-seven studies (47 cases; 35 males vs 12 females) were included. Mean age was 46 years old (range 13–84) and mean follow-up was 19.8 months (range 1.5–56). High-energy injuries (49%) and seizures (45%) were the most common injury mechanisms. Fracture type distribution differed according to injury mechanism. Treatment was surgical in 70% of cases (75% open reduction and internal fixation vs 25% acute total hip arthroplasty). Outcomes were excellent/good in 58% of patients. Complications included heterotopic ossification (11%), nerve injury (11%), degenerative arthritis (6%), DVT (6%), and infection (3%).

Conclusions

Bilateral acetabular fractures most commonly occur either after trauma or seizures and are commonly managed operatively. They are not devoid of complications, however, more than half (58%) achieve complete functional recovery.