bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hyperbolic three-string vertex
Authors: Fırat Atakan Hilmi
Published: August 2021

Abstract

We begin developing tools to compute off-shell string amplitudes with the recently proposed hyperbolic string vertices of Costello and Zwiebach. Exploiting the relation between a boundary value problem for Liouville’s equation and a monodromy problem for a Fuchsian equation, we construct the local coordinates around the punctures for the generalized hyperbolic three-string vertex and investigate their various limits. This vertex corresponds to the general pants diagram with three boundary geodesics of unequal lengths. We derive the conservation laws associated with such vertex and perform sample computations. We note the relevance of our construction to the calculations of the higher-order string vertices using the pants decomposition of hyperbolic Riemann surfaces.
Radiative lepton mass and muon g − 2 with suppressed lepton flavor and CP violations
Authors: Yin Wen
Published: August 2021

Abstract

The recent experimental status, including the confirmation of the muon g − 2 anomaly at Fermilab, indicates a Beyond Standard Model (BSM) satisfying the following properties: 1) it enhances the g − 2 2) suppresses flavor violations, such as μ → eγ, 3) suppresses CP violations, such as the electron electric dipole moment (EDM). In this letter, I show that the eigenbasis of the mass matrix and higher dimensional photon operators can be automatically aligned if the masses of heavy leptons are generated radiatively together with the g − 2. As a result, the muon g − 2 is enhanced but the EDM of the electron and μ → eγ rate are naturally suppressed. Phenomenology and applications of the mechanism to the B-physics anomalies are argued.
Volume complexity for Janus AdS3 geometries
Authors: Auzzi Roberto , Baiguera Stefano , Bonansea Sara , Nardelli Giuseppe , Toccacelo Kristian
Published: August 2021

Abstract

We investigate the complexity=volume proposal in the case of Janus AdS3 geometries, both at zero and finite temperature. The leading contribution coming from the Janus interface is a logarithmic divergence, whose coefficient is a function of the dilaton excursion. In the presence of the defect, complexity is no longer topological and becomes temperature-dependent. We also study the time evolution of the extremal volume for the time-dependent Janus BTZ black hole. This background is not dual to an interface but to a pair of entangled CFTs with different values of the couplings. At late times, when the equilibrium is restored, the couplings of the CFTs do not influence the complexity rate. On the contrary, the complexity rate for the out-of-equilibrium system is always smaller compared to the pure BTZ black hole background.
Colourful Poincaré symmetry, gravity and particle actions
Authors: Gomis Joaquim , Joung Euihun , Kleinschmidt Axel , Mkrtchyan Karapet
Published: August 2021

Abstract

We construct a generalisation of the three-dimensional Poincaré algebra that also includes a colour symmetry factor. This algebra can be used to define coloured Poincaré gravity in three space-time dimensions as well as to study generalisations of massive and massless free particle models. We present various such generalised particle models that differ in which orbits of the coloured Poincaré symmetry are described. Our approach can be seen as a stepping stone towards the description of particles interacting with a non-abelian background field or as a starting point for a worldline formulation of an associated quantum field theory.
Precision axion physics with running axion couplings
Authors: Choi Kiwoon , Im Sang Hui , Kim Hee Jung , Seong Hyeonseok
Published: August 2021

Abstract

We study the renormalization group running of axion couplings while taking into account that the Standard Model can be extended to its supersymmetric extension at a certain energy scale below the axion decay constant. We then apply our results to three different classes of axion models, i.e. KSVZ-like, DFSZ-like, and string-theoretic axions, and examine if string-theoretic axions can be distinguished from others by having a different pattern of low energy couplings to the photon, nucleons and electron. We find that the low energy couplings of string-theoretic axions have a similar pattern as those of KSVZ-like axions but yet reveal a sizable difference which might be testable in future axion search experiments. We also note that the coupling of KSVZ-like QCD axions to the electron is dominated by a three-loop contribution involving the exotic heavy quark, gluons, top quark and Higgs field.
Asymptotic quasinormal modes of string-theoretical d-dimensional black holes
Authors: Moura Filipe , Rodrigues João
Published: August 2021

Abstract

We compute the quasinormal frequencies of d-dimensional spherically symmetric black holes with leading string α′ corrections for tensorial gravitational perturbations in the highly damped regime. We solve perturbatively the master differential equation and we compute the monodromies of the master perturbation variable (analytically continued to the complex plane) in different contours, in order to obtain the quasinormal mode spectra. We proceed analogously for the quasinormal modes of test scalar fields. Differently than in Einstein gravity, we obtain distinct results for the two cases.
Observables in inhomogeneous ground states at large global charge
Authors: Hellerman Simeon , Kobayashi Nozomu , Maeda Shunsuke , Watanabe Masataka
Published: August 2021

Abstract

As a sequel to previous work, we extend the study of the ground state configuration of the D = 3, Wilson-Fisher conformal O(4) model. In this work, we prove that for generic ratios of two charge densities, ρ1/ρ2, the ground-state configuration is inhomogeneous and that the inhomogeneity expresses itself towards longer spatial periods. This is the direct extension of the similar statements we previously made for ρ1/ρ2 ≪ 1. We also compute, at fixed set of charges, ρ1, ρ2, the ground state energy and the two-point function(s) associated with this inhomogeneous configuration on the torus. The ground state energy was found to scale (ρ1 + ρ2)3/2, as dictated by dimensional analysis and similarly to the case of the O(2) model. Unlike the case of the O(2) model, the ground also strongly violates cluster decomposition in the large-volume, fixed-density limit, with a two-point function that is negative definite at antipodal points of the torus at leading order at large charge.
Tidal excitation as mixing in thermal CFT
Authors: Engelsöy Julius , Sundborg Bo
Published: August 2021

Abstract

We use mixed correlators in thermal CFT as clean probes of the strong gravity effects in their holographic duals. The dual interpretation of mixing is an inelastic conversion of one field to another field, induced by gravity: tidal excitation. We find an enhanced mixing at high temperatures, corresponding to large AdS black holes, concentrated to small boundary momenta, dual to the deep bulk, where strong gravitational fields are expected. We also find large $$ \mathcal{O}\left(1/{G}_N\right) $$
O

1
/

G
N

tidal conversion in the low temperature phase of the U(N) vector model, strengthening suspicions that the bulk dual of this phase also houses extremely compact objects.
Robotische Hernienchirurgie III
Authors: Dietz Ulrich A. , Kudsi O. Yusef , Garcia-Ureña Miguel , Baur Johannes , Ramser Michaela , Maksimovic Sladjana , Keller Nicola , Dörfer Jörg , Eisner Lukas , Wiegering Armin
Published: August 2021

Das Prinzip der gezielten Trennung bzw. Schwächung einzelner Komponenten der Bauchdecke zur Spannungsentlastung der Medianlinie bei großen abdominellen Rekonstruktionen ist seit über 30 Jahren als anteriore Komponentenseparation (aKS) bekannt und ein etabliertes Verfahren. Auf der Suche nach Alternativen mit geringerer Komplikationsrate wurde die posteriore Komponentenseparation (pKS) entwickelt; der „transversus abdominis release“ (TAR) ist eine nervenschonende Modifikation der pKS. Mit den ergonomischen Ressourcen der Robotik (z. B. abgewinkelte Instrumente) kann der TAR minimal-invasiv durchgeführt werden (r-TAR): Bruchlücken von bis zu 14 cm lassen sich verschließen und ein großes extraperitoneales Netz implantieren. In diesem Videobeitrag wird die Versorgung großer Inzisionalhernien in der r‑TAR-Technik präsentiert. Exemplarisch werden die Ergebnisse einer Kohortenstudie an 13 konsekutiven Patienten vorgestellt. Der Eingriff ist anspruchsvoll, die eigenen Ergebnisse sind – wie auch die Berichte aus der Literatur – ermutigend. Der r‑TAR entwickelt sich zur Königsdisziplin der Bauchdeckenrekonstruktion.
Interdisziplinärer Expertenkonsensus zu Innovationen der bildgebenden Diagnostik und radionuklidbasierten Therapien des fortgeschrittenen Prostatakarzinoms
Authors: Beyersdorff Dirk , Rahbar Kambiz , Essler Markus , Ganswindt Ute , Grosu Anca﻿-﻿Ligia , Gschwend Jürgen E. , Miller Kurt , Scheidhauer Klemens , Schlemmer Heinz﻿-﻿Peter , Wolff Johannes Maria , Krause Bernd Joachim
Published: August 2021

Hintergrund

Die zahlreichen diagnostischen und therapeutischen Innovationen beim fortgeschrittenen Prostatakarzinom, sowohl in der hormonsensitiven als auch in der kastrationsresistenten Situation, haben in den letzten Jahren zu einer Neuorientierung beim Management dieses Tumors geführt. Ungeachtet der bereits in Teilen in der S3-Leitlinie zu Früherkennung, Diagnose und Therapie des Prostatakarzinoms abgebildeten neuen diagnostischen und therapeutischen Methoden, gibt es in der klinischen Versorgung darüber hinaus gehende Fälle, in denen Patienten von diesen innovativen Verfahren potenziell profitieren könnten.

Fragestellung

Seit Juli 2018 trifft sich deshalb eine interdisziplinäre Expertengruppe aus Nuklearmedizinern, Radiologen, Radioonkologen und Urologen, um ein Konsensuspapier zu Innovationen der bildgebenden Diagnostik und radionuklidbasierten Therapien des fortgeschrittenen Prostatakarzinoms vor dem Hintergrund aktueller Studien und Erfahrungen im klinischen Alltag zu erarbeiten.

Schlussfolgerung

Der Arbeitskreis gibt Anregungen, um zu einer besseren Implementierung neuer bildgebender Techniken, wie multiparametrische Magnetresonanztomographie (mpMRT), PSMA-PET/CT (prostataspezifisches Membranantigen – Positronenemissionstomographie/Computertomographie) und innovativer therapeutischer Optionen (Radium-223-dichlorid, Lutetium-177-PSMA) bei den komplexen Therapieoptionen des fortgeschrittenen Prostatakarzinoms beizutragen.
Fabrication of graded alumina by spark plasma sintering
Authors: Bódis Eszter , Károly Zoltán
Published: August 2021

Functionally graded materials (FGMs) attract considerable interest in materials science and industry, since their composition or morphology gradually changes along their length, width, or height, which provides new approach for the development of multifunctional materials. In this paper, we studied the fabrication of a gradient microstructure in alumina (Al2O3) by spark plasma sintering (SPS). During the SPS process, the applied asymmetric graphite tool configuration causes a large temperature gradient, which results in a gradually changing morphology in Al2O3 ceramics. The local temperatures were quantitatively measured through extra thermocouples during SPS processes with various asymmetric configurations. In the most asymmetric configuration, a maximum vertical temperature difference of 225 °C was detected within the sample treated at a sintering temperature of 1300 °C and a pressure of 25 MPa applied 200 °C·min−1 heating rate. The microstructure investigations demonstrated the morphology gradient in the ceramic: one part of the Al2O3 exhibited fine, nanostructured morphology with large open and permeable pores, whereas the other part was solid without pores. Our investigations show that a gradient Al2O3 ceramic can be produced with a single-step SPS process, which offers new directions in FGMs research. With an asymmetric sintering configuration and the sintering conditions, the structure of the ceramic, such as porosity, can be designed according to the requirements of the application area.
Fano schemes of complete intersections in toric varieties
Authors: Ilten Nathan , Kelly Tyler L.
Published: August 2021

We study Fano schemes $$\mathrm{F}_k(X)$$

F
k

(
X
)

for complete intersections X in a projective toric variety $$Y\subset \mathbb {P}^n$$

Y
⊂

P

n

. Our strategy is to decompose $$\mathrm{F}_k(X)$$

F
k

(
X
)

into closed subschemes based on the irreducible decomposition of $$\mathrm{F}_k(Y)$$

F
k

(
Y
)

as studied by Ilten and Zotine. We define the “expected dimension” for these subschemes, which always gives a lower bound on the actual dimension. Under additional assumptions, we show that these subschemes are non-empty and smooth of the expected dimension. Using tools from intersection theory, we can apply these results to count the number of linear subspaces in X when the expected dimension of $$\mathrm{F}_k(X)$$

F
k

(
X
)

is zero.
The diet of greater crested terns off southeast Australia varies with breeding stage and sea surface temperature
Authors: Quiring Katrin , Carroll G. , Champion C. , Heymann E. W. , Harcourt R.
Published: August 2021

Monitoring seabird diet can provide insights into marine ecosystems that are logistically difficult or costly to observe with traditional fisheries survey methods. Using digital photography, we described the diet of greater crested terns (Thalasseus bergii) breeding on Montague Island (36°15′ S, 150°13′ E), a colony located in an oceanographically dynamic region of southeast Australia. We investigated how the type and size of prey brought back to the colony changed in relation to both breeding stage and variation in local environmental conditions. 2469 prey items were identified to species or family level over 35 consecutive days of photo-sampling in 2018. Australian anchovy (Engraulis australis), a surface-schooling clupeid fish, was the most abundant prey returned to the colony during all breeding stages (84.5%). The proportion of anchovy increased from 77.0% when birds were provisioning their adult partners during incubation, to 92.4% when they were provisioning chicks, suggesting selective foraging behaviour on this energy-rich species to facilitate rapid chick growth. Anchovy size was significantly larger during incubation (91.1 ± 14.9 mm), smaller during early chick provisioning (71.8 ± 11.0 mm), and increased slightly during mid provisioning (79.6 ± 11.9 mm), indicating adaptive prey selection that is matched to the physical requirements of different breeding stages. The proportion of anchovy prey was also influenced by sea surface temperature (SST), with anchovy becoming more dominant with increasing local SSTs, up to ~ 17.5 °C. This study gives new insight into the types of prey that are seasonally available to predators in this region. The strong specialisation by greater crested terns for one energy-rich species of schooling fish (anchovy) suggests that variation in the size and composition of their prey may serve as an indicator of change in the pelagic ecosystem off southeast Australia.
Amniotic band syndrome associated with extremely severe atypical clefts of the orofacial region
Authors: Eshete Mekonen , Banko Muhidin Abdo , Hailu Abiye , Brhanu Abeje , Mossey Peter , Butali Azeez
Published: August 2021

Amniotic band syndrome (ABS) is not a commonly seen birth defect; however, it may have the potential to be severe and life-threatening requiring adequate attention. We present a severe case of amniotic band syndrome which encircled the head of the neonate tightly causing severe deformity. In this case report, the amniotic band encircled the head causing a severe bilateral Tessier 7 cleft. To our knowledge, this is the most severe type of ABS reported in the literature thus far.

Level of evidence: Level V, risk / therapeutic study.
FISH-TAMB, a Fixation-Free mRNA Fluorescent Labeling Technique to Target Transcriptionally Active Members in Microbial Communities
Authors: Harris Rachel L. , Vetter Maggie C. Y. Lau , van Heerden Esta , Cason Errol , Vermeulen Jan-G , Taneja Anjali , Kieft Thomas L. , DeCoste Christina J. , Laevsky Gary S. , Onstott Tullis C.
Published: August 2021

Keystone species or ecological engineers are vital to the health of an ecosystem; however, often, their low abundance or biomass present challenges for their discovery, identification, visualization and selection. We report the development of fluorescent in situ hybridization of transcript-annealing molecular beacons (FISH-TAMB), a fixation-free protocol that is applicable to archaea and bacteria. The FISH-TAMB method differs from existing FISH methods by the absence of fixatives or surfactants in buffers, the fast hybridization time of as short as 15 min at target cells’ growth temperature, and the omission of washing steps. Polyarginine cell-penetrating peptides are employed to deliver molecular beacons (MBs) across prokaryotic cell walls and membranes, fluorescently labeling cells when MBs hybridize to target mRNA sequences. Here, the detailed protocol of the preparation and application of FISH-TAMB is presented. To demonstrate FISH-TAMB’s ability to label intracellular mRNA targets, differentiate transcriptional states, detect active and rare taxa, and keep cell viability, labeling experiments were performed that targeted the messenger RNA (mRNA) of methyl-coenzyme M reductase A (mcrA) expressed in (1) Escherichia coli containing a plasmid with a partial mcrA gene of the methanogen Methanosarcina barkeri (E. coli mcrA+); (2) M. barkeri; and (3) an anaerobic methanotrophic (ANME) enrichment from a deep continental borehole. Although FISH-TAMB was initially envisioned for mRNA of any functional gene of interest without a requirement of prior knowledge of 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA)-based taxonomy, FISH-TAMB has the potential for multiplexing and going beyond mRNA and thus is a versatile addition to the molecular ecologist’s toolkit, with potentially widespread application in the field of environmental microbiology.
18F-FDG PET baseline radiomics features improve the prediction of treatment outcome in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma
Authors: Eertink Jakoba J. , van de Brug Tim , Wiegers Sanne E. , Zwezerijnen Gerben J. C. , Pfaehler Elisabeth A. G. , Lugtenburg Pieternella J. , van der Holt Bronno , de Vet Henrica C. W. , Hoekstra Otto S. , Boellaard Ronald , Zijlstra Josée M.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Accurate prognostic markers are urgently needed to identify diffuse large B-Cell lymphoma (DLBCL) patients at high risk of progression or relapse. Our purpose was to investigate the potential added value of baseline radiomics features to the international prognostic index (IPI) in predicting outcome after first-line treatment.

Methods

Three hundred seventeen newly diagnosed DLBCL patients were included. Lesions were delineated using a semi-automated segmentation method (standardized uptake value ≥ 4.0), and 490 radiomics features were extracted. We used logistic regression with backward feature selection to predict 2-year time to progression (TTP). The area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operator characteristic curve was calculated to assess model performance. High-risk groups were defined based on prevalence of events; diagnostic performance was assessed using positive and negative predictive values.

Results

The IPI model yielded an AUC of 0.68. The optimal radiomics model comprised the natural logarithms of metabolic tumor volume (MTV) and of SUVpeak and the maximal distance between the largest lesion and any other lesion (Dmaxbulk, AUC 0.76). Combining radiomics and clinical features showed that a combination of tumor- (MTV, SUVpeak and Dmaxbulk) and patient-related parameters (WHO performance status and age > 60 years) performed best (AUC 0.79). Adding radiomics features to clinical predictors increased PPV with 15%, with more accurate selection of high-risk patients compared to the IPI model (progression at 2-year TTP, 44% vs 28%, respectively).

Conclusion

Prediction models using baseline radiomics combined with currently used clinical predictors identify patients at risk of relapse at baseline and significantly improved model performance.

Trial registration number and date

EudraCT: 2006–005,174-42, 01–08-2008.
Finite-size effects on the evolution of magnetic correlations and magnetocaloric properties of Pr0.4Bi0.2Sr0.4MnO3
Authors: Souza Anita D. , Vagadia Megha , Daivajna Mamatha D.
Published: August 2021

The effect of particle size reduction on the magnetic correlations of Pr0.4Bi0.2Sr0.4MnO3 nanoparticles prepared by top-down approach has been studied in detail. It was observed that as the milling time increases from 0 to 240 min, particle size decreases from 160 to 12 nm. Correspondingly it was observed that the ferromagnetic transition temperature (TC) drops (264 to 213 K) and saturation magnetization (MS) decreases (2.12–0.41 $${\upmu }_{\mathrm{B}}/\mathrm{f}.\mathrm{u}.$$

μ
B

/
f
.
u
.

) while coercivity (HC) shows a monotonous increase (0.18–1.5 kOe) as the particle size decreases due to increase in milling. The magnetic entropy change (ΔS) also decreases (2.41–0.24 J/kg-K) as particle size decreases indicating a strong correlation between magnetism and particle size. The metamagnetic M–H response of the bulk sample, which signifies the magnetic phase coexistence, is suppressed, and the nature of magnetic interactions demonstrates a transition from long range to short range. The observed characteristics emphasizes that with particle size reduction there is an increase in the surface disorder which can be explained by considering the core–shell model for the nanoparticles.

Graphic abstract
An empirical study on hospital-based prevention of recurrent urinary stone disease in Germany
Authors: Reicherz Alina , Rausch Patricia , Herout Roman , Noldus Joachim , Bach Peter
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Urinary stone disease is a common disease with a prevalence of 4.7% in Germany. The incidence increased over the last decades, and recurrence rates are up to 50% in the first 5 years after diagnosis. Adequate preventive measures can avoid up to 46% of stone recurrences. These numbers outline the importance of prevention. Especially among high-risk stone formers, specific diagnostics and measures are required. Published data indicate the divergence between the importance of prevention and its implementation in everyday clinical practice. This is the first survey among German urological departments highlighting medical care concerning the prevention of recurrent urinary stone disease, identifying challenges and providing recommendations for improvements.

Methods

Two hundred and seventy urological hospital departments in Germany were anonymously surveyed about measurements to prevent recurrent stone disease. The questionnaire comprised 23 items dealing with diagnostics, counselling, knowledge among doctors concerning preventive measures and difficulties in preventing recurrent urinary stone disease.

Results

Sixty-three urological departments (23.8%) answered the survey. The majority perform stone analysis at first and repeat events. Most patients with urinary stone disease receive general advice on preventive measures during their hospitalization. General recommendations focus on fluid intake and lifestyle changes. However, specific diets are infrequently recommended by inpatient urologists. Diagnostics to identify high-risk stone formers are mostly insufficient, and guideline-compliant urine tests are uncommon.

Conclusion

The quality of secondary prevention needs to improve considerably. The focus should be put on identifying high-risk stone formers and offering those patients specific counselling. Furthermore, general advice on dietary recommendations should be extended.
Robotics improves alignment accuracy and reduces early revision rates for UKA in the hands of low-volume UKA surgeons
Authors: Savov Peter , Tuecking Lars-Rene , Windhagen Henning , Calliess Tilman , Ettinger Max
Published: August 2021

Purpose

It is known that in uni-compartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) low-volume surgeons have a higher complication and revision rate than high-volume surgeons. Further, robotic-assisted UKA leads to lower early revision rate as well as fewer limb and joint line outliers compared to conventional UKA. The purpose of this study was to retrospectively analyze the outliers’ and revision rate of low-volume UKA surgeons with different robotic systems at short-term follow-up.

Methods

In this case–control study, 103 robotic-assisted UKAs were included. The procedures were performed between 2016 and 2019 from two low-volume UKA surgeons with an imageless (IL) (63 patients) and image-based (IB) (40 patients) robotic system. Alignment outliers, joint line (JL) reconstruction, complication and revision rates of the two different robotic systems were analyzed. The minimum follow-up was two years. Outliers were defined as a postoperative valgus malalignment greater than 182°. The surgery time for all procedures was evaluated.

Results

The overall revision rate was 3.9% (4 of 103). Two occurred in the IB group (5.0%) and two in the IL group (3.2%). No valgus malalignment outliers were observed in both groups. The mean JL was not distalized by more than 2 mm in both groups (IL: 1.3 ± 1.6 mm vs. IB: 1.8 ± 0.9 mm, p value 0.08). The IL procedures had a significant lower mean surgery time (55 ± 13 min vs. 68 ± 14, p value 0.001).

Conclusion

Robotic-assisted UKA is a safe procedure in the hand of low-volume UKA surgeons. Robotic-assisted UKA minimizes overcorrection into valgus mal-alignment. Low revision rates are observed at short-term follow-up for robotic-assisted UKA. The choice of the different robotic systems has no impact on the outcome.
Pathologic myopia and severe pathologic myopia: correlation with axial length
Authors: Flores-Moreno Ignacio , Puertas Mariluz , Almazán-Alonso Elena , Ruiz-Medrano Jorge , García-Zamora María , Vega-González Rocío , Ruiz-Moreno José M.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This study had three aims: (1) correlate axial length (AL), age and best-corrected visual acuity in high myopic patients scored on the ATN grading system; (2) determine AL cut-off values to distinguish between pathologic myopia (PM) and severe PM; and (3) identify clinical differences between PM and severe PM.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional, non-interventional study. All patients underwent complete ophthalmologic examination, ATN grading and multimodal imaging (colour fundus photography, swept-source OCT, fundus autofluorescence, OCT angiography and fluorescein angiography).

Results

Six hundred forty-four eyes from 345 high myopic patients were included. The eyes were graded on the ATN system and classified as PM (≥ A2) or severe PM (≥ A3, ≥ T3 and/or N2). Significant between-group (PM vs. severe PM) differences (p < 0.05) were observed on the individual ATN components (atrophic [A], tractional [T] and neovascular [N]), age, BCVA and AL. AL was also linearly correlated with the A, T and N components (r = 0.53, p < 0.01; r = 0.24, p < 0.01; r = 0.20, p < 0.01; respectively). ROC curve analysis showed the optimal AL cut-off value to distinguish between PM at 28 mm (AUC ROC curve: 0.813, specificity: 75%, sensitivity: 75%) and severe PM at 29.50 mm (AUC ROC curve: 0.760, specificity: 75%, sensitivity: 70%).

Conclusion

AL is the main variable associated with myopic maculopathy. Due to the clinical differences found between PM and severe PM, there is need to create an objective cut-off point to distinguish these two different entities being the optimal cut-off points for AL 28 mm and 29.5 mm, respectively. These objective AL cut-off values should be taken into account for determining a correct follow-up, ophthalmic management and treatment.
Gastrodermis ultrastructure of the different life stages of the polyopisthocotylean monogenean gill parasite Discocotyle sagittata
Authors: Cable Joanne , El-Naggar Mohamed Mohamed
Published: August 2021

The polyopisthocotylean Discocotyle sagittata is a blood-feeding monogenean that infects the gill lamellae of rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss, and brown trout, Salmo trutta. The ultrastructure of their alimentary tract, at different stages of the life cycle, was previously unknown. Here, we show that the gastrodermis of the oncomiracidium, subadult, and adult D. sagittata follows the same structural organization as that of other blood-feeding polyopisthocotyleans, being composed of digestive cells alternating with a connecting syncytium. Digestive cells of the oncomiracidium are found in three developmental forms: undifferentiated, developing differentiated, and differentiated (presumably functioning) cells whereas those of adult and subadult are present in a single functioning state with variable size and content. The apical cytoplasm of adult digestive cells forms conical outgrowths, a feature which is absent in the oncomiracidium. The connecting syncytium of the oncomiracidium has no evidence of metabolic activity, while that of adult and subadult is metabolically active. The lamellae of the connecting syncytium of adults and subadults are more numerous and larger, and their terminal portions are expanded, compared with those of the oncomiracidium. Parallel, tubular, membranous structures are characteristic of the apical cytoplasm of the connecting syncytium of the oncomiracidium. Luminal lamella in the oncomiracidium, subadult, and adult form balloon-like structures enclosing some luminal contents, but those of the oncomiracidium are larger, bounded by nucleated cytoplasmic layer, and enclose more luminal contents. The possible functions of these structures and mechanism of digestion in both oncomiracidium and adult are discussed.
Elternzentrierte ethische Entscheidungsfindung für Frühgeborene im Grenzbereich der Lebensfähigkeit – Reflexion über die Bedeutung probabilistischer Prognosen als Entscheidungsgrundlage
Authors: Kidszun André
Published: August 2021

Frühgeborene im Grenzbereich der Lebensfähigkeit befinden sich in einer prognostischen Grauzone. Das bedeutet, dass deren Prognose zwar schlecht, aber nicht hoffnungslos ist, woraus folgt, dass nach Geburt lebenserhaltende Behandlungen nicht obligatorisch sind. Die Entscheidung für oder gegen lebenserhaltende Maßnahmen ist wertbeladen und für alle Beteiligten enorm herausfordernd. Sie sollte eine zwischen Eltern und Ärzt*innen geteilte Entscheidung sein, wobei sie unbedingt mit den Präferenzen der Eltern abgestimmt sein sollte. Bei der pränatalen Beratung der Eltern legen die behandelnden Ärzt*innen üblicherweise numerische Schätzungen der Prognose vor und nehmen in der Regel an, dass die Eltern ihre Behandlungspräferenzen davon ableiten. Inwieweit probabilistische Daten die Entscheidungen der Eltern in prognostischen Grauzonen tatsächlich beeinflussen, ist noch unzureichend untersucht. In der hier vorliegenden Arbeit wird eine Studie reflektiert, in welcher die Hypothese geprüft wurde, dass numerisch bessere oder schlechtere kindliche Prognosen die Präferenzen werdender Mütter für lebenserhaltende Maßnahmen nicht beeinflussen. In dieser Studie zeigte sich, dass die elterlichen Behandlungspräferenzen eher von individuellen Einstellungen und Werten als von Überlegungen zu numerischen Ergebnisschätzungen herzurühren scheinen. Unser Verständnis, welche Informationen werdende Eltern, die mit einer extremen Frühgeburt konfrontiert sind, wünschen und brauchen, ist noch immer unvollständig. Bedeutende medizinische Entscheidungen werden keineswegs nur rational und prognoseorientiert gefällt. In der vorliegenden Arbeit wird diskutiert, welchen Einfluss der Prozess der Entscheidungsfindung auf das Beratungsergebnis haben kann und welche Implikationen sich aus den bisher vorliegenden Studienergebnissen ergeben – klinisch-praktisch, ethisch und wissenschaftlich.
The impact of COVID-19 lockdown on child and adolescent mental health: systematic review
Authors: Panchal Urvashi , Salazar de Pablo Gonzalo , Franco Macarena , Moreno Carmen , Parellada Mara , Arango Celso , Fusar-Poli Paolo
Published: August 2021

COVID-19 was declared a pandemic in March 2020, resulting in many countries worldwide calling for lockdowns. This study aimed to review the existing literature on the effects of the lockdown measures established as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of children and adolescents. Embase, Ovid, Global Health, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and pre-print databases were searched in this PRISMA-compliant systematic review (PROSPERO: CRD42021225604). We included individual studies reporting on a wide range of mental health outcomes, including risk and protective factors, conducted in children and adolescents (aged ≤ 19 years), exposed to COVID-19 lockdown. Data extraction and quality appraisal were conducted by independent researchers, and results were synthesised by core themes. 61 articles with 54,999 children and adolescents were included (mean age = 11.3 years, 49.7% female). Anxiety symptoms and depression symptoms were common in the included studies and ranged 1.8–49.5% and 2.2–63.8%, respectively. Irritability (range = 16.7–73.2%) and anger (range = 30.0–51.3%), were also frequently reported by children and adolescents. Special needs and the presence of mental disorders before the lockdown, alongside excessive media exposure, were significant risk factors for anxiety. Parent–child communication was protective for anxiety and depression. The COVID-19 lockdown has resulted in psychological distress and highlighted vulnerable groups such as those with previous or current mental health difficulties. Supporting the mental health needs of children and adolescents at risk is key. Clinical guidelines to alleviate the negative effects of COVID-19 lockdown and public health strategies to support this population need to be developed.
Low serum uric acid levels are associated with the nonmotor symptoms and brain gray matter volume in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Shi Xiaoxue , Zheng Jinhua , Ma Jianjun , Wang Zhidong , Sun Wenhua , Li Mingjian , Huang Shen , Hu Shiyu
Published: August 2021

Background

Uric acid (UA) plays a protective role in Parkinson’s disease (PD). To date, studies on the relationship between serum UA levels and nonmotor symptoms and brain gray matter volume in PD patients have been rare.

Methods

Automated enzymatic analysis was used to determine serum UA levels in 68 healthy controls and 88 PD patients, including those at the early (n = 56) and middle-late (n = 32) stages of the disease. Evaluation of motor symptoms and nonmotor symptoms in PD patients was assessed by the associated scales. Image acquisition was performed using a Siemens MAGNETOM Prisma 3 T MRI scanner.

Results

Serum UA levels in early stage PD patients were lower than those in healthy controls, and serum UA levels in the middle-late stage PD patients were lower than those in the early stage PD patients. Serum UA levels were significantly negatively correlated with the disease course, dysphagia, anxiety, depression, apathy, and cognitive dysfunction. ROC assessment confirmed that serum UA levels had good predictive accuracy for PD with dysphagia, anxiety, depression, apathy, and cognitive dysfunction. Furthermore, UA levels were significantly positively correlated with gray matter volume in whole brain.

Conclusions

This study shows that serum UA levels were correlated with the nonmotor symptoms of dysphagia, anxiety, depression, apathy, and cognitive dysfunction and the whole-brain gray matter volume. That is the first report examining the relationships between serum UA and clinical manifestations and imaging features in PD patients.
Brains in space: the importance of understanding the impact of long-duration spaceflight on spatial cognition and its neural circuitry
Authors: Stahn Alexander C. , Kühn Simone
Published: August 2021

Fifty years after the first humans stepped on the Moon, space faring nations have entered a new era of space exploration. NASA’s reference mission to Mars is expected to comprise 1100 days. Deep space exploratory class missions could even span decades. They will be the most challenging and dangerous expeditions in the history of human spaceflight and will expose crew members to unprecedented health and performance risks. The development of adverse cognitive or behavioral conditions and psychiatric disorders during those missions is considered a critical and unmitigated risk factor. Here, we argue that spatial cognition, i.e., the ability to encode representations about self-to-object relations and integrate this information into a spatial map of the environment, and their neural bases will be highly vulnerable during those expeditions. Empirical evidence from animal studies shows that social isolation, immobilization, and altered gravity can have profound effects on brain plasticity associated with spatial navigation. We provide examples from historic spaceflight missions, spaceflight analogs, and extreme environments suggesting that spatial cognition and its neural circuitry could be impaired during long-duration spaceflight, and identify recommendations and future steps to mitigate these risks.
The Costs of Creatinine Testing in the Context of a HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Demonstration Project in Eswatini
Authors: Kohler Stefan , Ndungwani Rumbidzai , Burgert Mark , Sibandze Dumile , Matse Sindy , Hettema Anita
Published: August 2021

HIV treatment and prevention as well as other chronic disease care can require regular kidney function assessment based on a creatinine test. To assess the costs of creatinine testing in a public health care system, we conducted activity-based costing during a HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) demonstration project in the Hhohho region of Eswatini. Resource use was assessed by a laboratory technician and valued with government procurement prices, public sector salaries, and own cost estimates. Obtaining a blood sample in a clinic and performing a creatinine test in a high-throughput referral laboratory (> 660,000 blood tests, including > 120,000 creatinine tests, in 2018) were estimated to have cost, on average, $1.98 in 2018. Per test, $1.95 were variable costs ($1.38 personnel, ¢39 consumables, and ¢18 other costs) and ¢2.6 were allocated semi-fixed costs (¢1.1 laboratory equipment, ¢0.85 other, ¢0.45 consumables, and ¢1.3 personnel costs). Simulating different utilization of the laboratory indicated that semi-fixed costs of the laboratory (e.g., equipment purchase or daily calibration of the chemistry analyzer) contributed less than variable costs (e.g., per-test personnel time and test reagents) to the average creatinine test cost when certain minimum test numbers can be maintained. Our findings suggest, first, lower creatinine testing costs than previously used in cost and cost-effectiveness analyses of HIV services and, second, that investment in laboratory equipment imposed a relatively small additional cost on each performed test in the high-throughput referral laboratory.
Statins to mitigate cardiotoxicity in cancer patients treated with anthracyclines and/or trastuzumab: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Obasi Mary , Abovich Arielle , Vo Jacqueline B. , Gao Yawen , Papatheodorou Stefania I. , Nohria Anju , Asnani Aarti , Partridge Ann H.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Cardiotoxicity affects 5–16% of cancer patients who receive anthracyclines and/or trastuzumab. Limited research has examined interventions to mitigate cardiotoxicity. We examined the role of statins in mitigating cardiotoxicity by performing a systematic review and meta-analysis of published studies.

Methods

A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Cochrane Central. A random-effect model was used to assess summary relative risks (RR), weighted mean differences (WMD), and corresponding 95% confidence intervals. Testing for heterogeneity between the studies was performed using Cochran’s Q test and the I2 test.

Results

Two randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with a total of 117 patients and four observational cohort studies with a total of 813 patients contributed to the analysis. Pooled results indicate significant mitigation of cardiotoxicity after anthracycline and/or trastuzumab exposure among statin users in cohort studies [RR = 0.46, 95% CI (0.27–0.78), p = 0.004, $${ }I^{2}$$

I
2

 = 0.0%] and a non-significant decrease in cardiotoxicity risk among statin users in RCTs [RR = 0.49, 95% CI (0.17–1.45), p = 0.20, $$I^{2}$$

I
2

 = 5.6%]. Those who used statins were also significantly more likely to maintain left ventricular ejection fraction compared to baseline after anthracycline and/or trastuzumab therapy in both cohort studies [weighted mean difference (WMD) = 6.14%, 95% CI (2.75–9.52), p < 0.001, $$I^{2}$$

I
2

 = 74.7%] and RCTs [WMD = 6.25%, 95% CI (0.82–11.68, p = 0.024, $$I^{2}$$

I
2

 = 80.9%]. We were unable to explore publication bias due to the small number of studies.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis suggests that there is an association between statin use and decreased risk of cardiotoxicity after anthracycline and/or trastuzumab exposure. Larger well-conducted RCTs are needed to determine whether statins decrease risk of cardiotoxicity from anthracyclines and/or trastuzumab.

Trial Registration Number and Date of Registration

PROSPERO: CRD42020140352 on 7/6/2020.
Risk factors for surgical site infection and association of surgical site infection with survival of lower rectal cancer patients without clinical lateral pelvic lymph node metastasis (clinical Stage II/III): Analysis of data from JCOG0212
Authors: Katsumata Kenji , Enomoto Masanobu , Ishizaki Tetsuo , Fujita Shin , Kanemitsu Yukihide , Ito Masaaki , Shiomi Akio , Komori Koji , Ohue Masayuki , Ota Mitsuyoshi , Akazai Yoshihiro , Shiozawa Manabu , Yamaguchi Takashi , Bando Hiroyuki , Sekimoto Mitugu , Kobatake Takaya , Machida Ryunosuke , Akasu Takayuki , Moriya Yoshihiro ,   the Colorectal Cancer Study Group of Japan Clinical Oncology Group
Published: August 2021

This study aimed to examine the risk factors for surgical site infection (SSI) and the association of that with recurrence in JCOG0212. The results for secondary endpoints showed that compared with the mesorectal excision (ME) alone group, ME with lateral lymph node dissection (LLND) group showed significantly longer operative time and significantly higher blood loss. These results suggested that LLND was a risk factor for SSI. All 701 patients registered in JCOG0212 were analyzed in this study. Wound infection was defined as incisional/deep SSI, and pelvic abscess and anastomotic leakage were defined as organ/space SSI. The risk factors for the incidence of SSI and the effect of SSI on relapse-free survival (RFS) were investigated. Multivariable odds ratio of Grade 2 or higher all SSI was 0.58 [95% Confidence interval: 0.36–0.93] for female (vs. male) and that of Grade 2 or higher incisional/deep SSI was 2.24 [1.03–4.86] for blood infusion. For RFS, patients with Grade 3 or higher all SSI showed poor prognosis (multivariable hazard ratio: 1.66 [1.03–2.68]). LLND is not significant factor for the incidence of all SSI. Male sex might be a risk factor of Grade 2 or higher SSI, and blood transfusion is a possible risk factor of Grade 2 or higher incisional/deep SSI. Grade 3 or higher all SSI might be a significant worse prognostic factor for lower rectal cancer.
The welfare of wildlife: an interdisciplinary analysis of harm in the legal and illegal wildlife trades and possible ways forward
Authors: Wyatt Tanya , Maher Jennifer , Allen Daniel , Clarke Nancy , Rook Deborah
Published: August 2021

Wildlife trade—both legal and illegal—is an activity that is currently the focus of global attention. Concerns over the loss of biodiversity, partly stemming from overexploitation, and the corona virus pandemic, likely originating from wildlife trade, are urgent matters. These concerns though centre on people. Only sometimes does the discussion focus on the wildlife traded and their welfare. In this article, we make the case as to why welfare is an important component of any discussion or policy about wildlife trade, not only for the interests of the wildlife, but also for the sake of humans. We detail the harm in the trade as well as the current welfare provisions, particularly in relation to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which guide global transport and trade. There are a number of ways that the current approach to wildlife welfare could be improved, and we propose ways forward in this regard.
A study into the practice of reporting software engineering experiments
Authors: Revoredo Kate , Djurica Djordje , Mendling Jan
Published: August 2021

It has been argued that reporting software engineering experiments in a standardized way helps researchers find relevant information, understand how experiments were conducted and assess the validity of their results. Various guidelines have been proposed specifically for software engineering experiments. The benefits of such guidelines have often been emphasized, but the actual uptake and practice of reporting have not yet been investigated since the introduction of many of the more recent guidelines. In this research, we utilize a mixed-method study design including sequence analysis techniques for evaluating to which extent papers follow such guidelines. Our study focuses on the four most prominent software engineering journals and the time period from 2000 to 2020. Our results show that many experimental papers miss information suggested by guidelines, that no de facto standard sequence for reporting exists, and that many papers do not cite any guidelines. We discuss these findings and implications for the discipline of experimental software engineering focusing on the review process and the potential to refine and extend guidelines, among others, to account for theory explicitly.
Structural Injustice and Socially Undocumented Oppression: Changing Tides in Refugee and Immigration Ethics
Authors: Schmid Lukas
Published: August 2021

In this review essay, I discuss two recent works in refugee and migration ethics, Serena Parekh’s No Refuge: Ethics and the Global Refugee Crisis and Amy Reed-Sandoval’s Socially Undocumented: Identity and Immigration Justice. I find that their methodological ambitions overlap significantly and that their arguments represent welcome and largely successful examinations of generally neglected issues. I also explain how both approaches could fruitfully learn from each other, and argue that they lay pioneering groundwork for future work to continue the analysis of only nascent modes and areas of inquiry.