bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the (p,q)$(p,q)$‐type strong law of large numbers for sequences of independent random variables
Authors: Thành Lê Vǎn
Published: November 2022

Li, Qi, and Rosalsky (Trans. Amer. Math. Soc., 368 (2016), no. 1, 539–561) introduced a refinement of the Marcinkiewicz–Zygmund strong law of large numbers (SLLN), the so‐called ‐type SLLN, where and . They obtained sets of necessary and sufficient conditions for this new type SLLN for two cases: , , and . Results for the case where and remain open problems. This paper gives a complete solution to these problems. We consider random variables taking values in a real separable Banach space , but the results are new even when is the real line. Furthermore, the conditions for a sequence of random variables satisfying the ‐type SLLN are shown to provide an exact characterization of stable type p Banach spaces.
Management of methylmalonic acidemia (MMA) with N‐carbamylglutamate: A case report from Italy
Authors: Tubili Flavia , Pochiero Francesca , Curcio Maria Rosaria , Procopio Elena
Published: November 2022

Background

Methylmalonic acidemia (MMA) is an inborn error of metabolism whose optimal management, especially in the long‐term remains to be established.

Methods

We describe the case of a child with MMA mut0 who was in a cycle of episodes of decompensation and hospitalization when we started to use carglumic acid (CA), a well‐known adjunctive therapy to standard care for the treatment of acute hyperammonemia due to MMA.

Results

Using the lowest effective therapeutic dose of CA and adjusting the patient's diet with caloric and protein intake adequate for her age and pathology, we managed to keep ammonium levels within the normal range, and to ensure a normal growth pattern.

Conclusion

The present case adds further confirmation of the long‐term management of MMA using CA, focusing on the long duration of follow up and on the use of a lower dose of CA in real life settings.
An exact analytical solution to the nonstationary coagulation equation describing the endosomal network dynamics
Authors: Makoveeva Eugenya V.
Published: November 2022

Motivated by important applications in materials science and biology, we consider a nonstationary coagulation equation with influx and outflux of particles (cargo). An exact analytical solution to this integrodifferential equation is found in a parametric form. This solution behaves as a decaying exponent with respect to the particle volume (fluorescence intensity in the case of coagulation of endosomes). We demonstrate that our exact solution substantially depends on coagulation kernels (fusion and fission rates) as well as the influx and outflux processes of cargo.
Long‐term efficacy of complete trigonal electrofulguration for women with recurrent urinary tract infections
Authors: Ribeiro‐Filho Leopoldo , Suartz Caio V. , Braz Natalia D. S. F. , Siqueira Matheus , Hirasaki Felipe , Mitre Anuar I. , Gomes Cristiano M. , Nahas William C.
Published: November 2022

Introduction and Objective

Recurrent urinary tract infections (R‐UTIs) have a negative impact on quality of life and contribute to antimicrobial resistance. Long‐term antibiotic therapy is the main treatment alternative but, in some cases, this approach may not be accepted by the patient, is ineffective or poorly tolerated. In selected women, electrofulguration (EF) of trigonal lesions has been shown to reduce urinary tract infection (UTI) episodes.

Methods

Between August 2006 and December 2017, 73 women with R‐UTI had their data collected prospectively and analyzed. We evaluated the rate of UTIs during the initial 2 years of follow‐up after fulguration based on symptoms and a positive urine culture. All patients failed with multiple antibiotic courses and were offered endoscopic electrofulguration of the entire trigonal and bladder neck mucosa with a rollerball probe. We present our long‐term results using a strategy of complete fulguration of the trigone in women with R‐UTIs.

Results

The median age was 64 years (range: 17–76 years) and the median follow‐up time after EF was 4.2 years (range: 2.5–14 years). Overall, 70 patients (96%) remained free of UTI episodes during the first year of follow‐up, at 2 years of follow‐up, 57, 53% remained infection‐free. Currently, UTIs are typically sparse, mild, and caused by multisensitive bacteria.

Conclusions

Complete trigonal and bladder neck mucosal fulguration promoted a significant reduction of UTI episodes during the first 2 years of follow‐up. Prospective controlled studies are needed to determine the role of EF in women with R‐UTI.
RISE FOR HEALTH: Rationale and protocol for a prospective cohort study of bladder health in women
Authors: Smith Ariana L. , Rudser Kyle , Harlow Bernard L. , McGwin Gerald , Barthold Julia , Brady Sonya S. , Brubaker Linda , Cunningham Shayna D. , Griffith James W. , Kenton Kim , Klusaritz Heather , Lewis Cora E. , Lukacz Emily S. , Maki Julia , Markland Alayne D. , Mueller Elizabeth R. , Newman Diane K. , Nodora Jesse , Rickey Leslie M. , Rockwood Todd , Simon Melissa , Wyman Jean F. , Sutcliffe Siobhan ,   for the Prevention of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (PLUS) Research Consortium
Published: November 2022

Introduction

The spectrum of bladder health and the factors that promote bladder health and prevent lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) among women are not well understood. This manuscript describes the rationale, aims, study design, sampling strategy, and data collection for the RISE FOR HEALTH (RISE) study, a novel study of bladder health in women conducted by the Prevention of Lower Urinary Tract Symptom (PLUS) Research Consortium.

Methods and Results

RISE is a population‐based, multicenter, prospective longitudinal cohort study of community‐dwelling, English‐ and Spanish‐speaking adult women based in the United States. Its goal is to inform the distribution of bladder health and the individual factors (biologic, behavioral, and psychosocial) and multilevel factors (interpersonal, institutional, community, and societal) that promote bladder health and/or prevent LUTS in women across the life course. Key study development activities included the: (1) development of a conceptual framework and philosophy to guide subsequent activities, (2) creation of a study design and sampling strategy, prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion, and (3) selection and development of data collection components. Community members and cross‐cultural experts shaped and ensured the appropriateness of all study procedures and materials. RISE participants will be selected by simple random sampling of individuals identified by a marketing database who reside in the 50 counties surrounding nine PLUS clinical research centers. Participants will complete self‐administered surveys at baseline (mailed paper or electronic) to capture bladder health and LUTS, knowledge about bladder health, and factors hypothesized to promote bladder health and prevent LUTS. A subset of participants will complete an in‐person assessment to augment data with objective measures including urogenital microbiome specimens. Initial longitudinal follow‐up is planned at 1 year.

Discussion

Findings from RISE will begin to build the necessary evidence base to support much‐needed, new bladder health promotion and LUTS prevention interventions in women.
Disruption of specific white matter tracts is associated with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction in women with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Choksi Darshil , Schott Bradley , Tran Khue , Jang Ryan , Hasan Khader M. , Lincoln John A. , Jalali Ali , Karmonik Christof , Salazar Betsy , Khavari Rose
Published: November 2022

Objective

To identify specific white matter tracts (WMTs) whose disruption is associated with the severity of neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) in two independent cohorts of women with multiple sclerosis (MS) and NLUTD.

Methods

Cohort 1 consisted of twenty‐eight women with MS and NLUTD. The validation cohort consisted of 10 women with MS and NLUTD. Eleven healthy women served as controls. Participants of both MS cohorts had the same inclusion and exclusion criteria. Both MS cohorts and the healthy controls underwent the same clinical assessment and functional MRI (fMRI) protocol, except that the validation MS cohort underwent 7‐Tesla fMRI scan. Fifteen WMTs (six coursing to relevant brainstem areas) involved in bladder control were a priori regions of interest (ROI). Spearman's correlation test was performed between each the Fractional Anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD) of each WMT and the clinical parameters.

Results

Overall, we found a very high degree of overlap (100% of a priori ROI) in the tracts identified by our correlation analysis as having the greatest contribution to NLUTD symptoms in MS women. The right inferior cerebellar peduncle, left posterior limb of internal capsule, and left superior cerebellar peduncle displayed significant associations to the greatest number of clinical parameters.

Conclusions

Our correlation analysis supports the role of specific WMT disruptions in the contribution of symptoms in women with MS and NLUTD, as confirmed in two independent MS cohorts.
Are β3‐adrenoceptor gene polymorphisms relevant for urology?
Authors: Michel Martin C.
Published: November 2022

Aims

β3‐adrenoceptors (ARs) are an important drug target for the treatment of overactive bladder syndrome (OAB) and are under investigation for other indications. The human β3‐AR gene is polymorphic; an exchange of amino acid tryptophan (Trp) for arginine (Arg) in position 64 of the receptor protein is the most frequent and best‐studied polymorphism. A narrative review on the impact of β3‐AR polymorphisms on urological disease and its treatment is presented.

Results

Two out of four studies have reported that the 64Arg allele was found more frequently in subjects with OAB than in healthy controls. A large study in a highly selective population (men undergoing prostatectomy for cancer treatment) did not confirm this. On the other hand, studies examining symptom severity typically found little difference between 64Arg and 64Trp carriers. In vitro studies with endogenously expressed β3‐AR reported a decreased lipolytic response in human adipose tissue. Studies with heterologously expressed receptors sometimes found a decreased responsiveness to agonists including β3‐AR agonists, but others did not confirm that.

Conclusions

The overall evidence points to carriers of the 64Arg genotype expressing fewer and/or hypofunctional β3‐ARs and being associated with the presence of OAB but such findings were only detected inconsistently. If this hypofunctionality exists, the consequences may be of insufficient magnitude to allow a robust detection. Only adequately powered studies comparing responses with a β3‐AR agonist in 64Arg carriers versus wild‐type patients can address this.
Innovative training modality for sacral neuromodulation (SNM): Patient‐specific computerized tomography (CT) reconstructed 3D‐printed training system: ICS School of Modern Technology novel training modality
Authors: Aydogan Tahsin B. , Patel Mittal , Digesu Alex , Mourad Sherif , Castro Diaz David , Ezer Mehmet , Huri Emre
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) is an effective treatment of urinary and bowel dysfunction, including secondary to neurological disorders. The learning curve for the optimal electrode placement for SNM is steep, expensive, and limited by patient factors such as obesity and previous injuries. We aim to create a patient specific 3‐dimensional (3D) model for successful SNM training.

Materials and Methods

A total of 26 urology residents who had different level of knowledge and experience were enrolled to the 3D SNM training program. The creation of 3D sacrum model has been started with evaluation of real patient computerized tomography images and creation of Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine files. The segmented anatomic structures from the files then edited and stereolithographic files were generated for 3D‐model prints via Mimics© software. The 3D‐printed models were used for training and evaluation of participants during the SNM intervention was performed. The evaluation of 3D SNM model training was led by one mentor who is expert on SNM.

Results

On the preprinted 3D sacrum model all 26 participants were requested to perform the essential steps to complete a SNM procedure and individual procedure time was recorded. The mean and median scores were 18.8 and 19, respectively according to Likert scores (min 11 max 28).

Conclusions

SNM is increasing in popularity as a treatment option with physicians and patients with refractory symptoms. Few experienced specialists exist, and more effective training methods are needed to tackle the increasing demand, and individual patient anatomy.
Laying the foundation for enhancing safety of desmopressin in older people: Validation of capillary blood sodium levels
Authors: Verbakel Irina , Maenhout Thomas , Petrovic Mirko , Weiss Jeffrey , Van Laecke Erik , Delanghe Joris , Everaert Karel
Published: November 2022

Purpose

We aim to make desmopressin a safe treatment option for (older) patients at risk for hyponatremia, by introducing a new way of sodium monitoring. The goal is to reduce the risk of hyponatremia, enhance patient safety and ultimately introduce self‐monitoring of sodium levels. The first step in the aforementioned is to validate capillary sodium.

Materials and Methods

100 randomly selected patients admitted to the urology department received a single finger prick to collect capillary blood (250 µl) in a lithium‐heparin tube. Each patient acted as its own control for the capillary and venous blood sample. Venous and capillary plasma sodium were analyzed by indirect ion‐selective electrode measurement. The primary outcome was the agreement between capillary and venous sodium measurements, measured by the intra‐class correlation coefficient (ICC).

Results

One hundred paired blood samples were obtained of which four were excluded. There was no significant statistical difference observed between venous and capillary sodium (−0.23 mmol/L, p = 0.374). The ICC for single measures between capillary and venous sodium was 0.82 (95% confidence interval 0.75–0.88). Inter‐method differences analyzed by a Bland–Altman plot and a Passing–Bablock regression did not reveal a statistically significant difference between both groups.

Conclusions

We demonstrated that venous and capillary sodium levels are interchangeable, taken into account the inter‐ and intravariability between analyses. We provided the first step towards a simple and safe solution for frequent sodium monitoring through a minimal invasive capillary blood collection. The results are of direct clinical relevance to safely use desmopressin in (older) patients at risk.
The burden and predictors of late antenatal booking in a rural setting in Ghana
Authors: Oduro Charlotte Afful , Opoku Douglas Aninng , Osarfo Joseph , Fuseini Adam , Attua Ama Asamaniwa , Owusu‐Ansah Efua , Issah Shamwill , Barfi Augustine , Kwadzodeh Ephraim Foanor , Mohammed Aliyu
Published: November 2022

Aim

The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence and key predictors of late booking among pregnant women accessing antenatal care services in a rural district of Ghana.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Data on demographic characteristics, knowledge of accessing antenatal care services and booking gestation were collected from 163 randomly selected pregnant women accessing accessing antenatal care in rural Ghana from 1 March 2022 to 30 April 2022 using a structured questionnaire. The chi‐square and logistic regression were used to explore associations between exposure and dependent variables.

Results

The prevalence of late accessing antenatal care booking among study participants was 44.8% (73/163). About 79.1% (129/163) of them had adequate knowledge of accessing antenatal care services. Maternal age of 35–49 years (AOR: 8.53, 95% CI: 2.41–30.12), participants whose partners had no formal education (AOR: 3.43, 95% CI: 1.03–11.39) and participants with adequate knowledge about accessing antenatal care services (AOR: 0.21, 95% CI: 0.07–0.62) were associated with late booking for accessing antenatal care services among study participants.
Assessing service provision and outcomes at the Canberra Obesity Management Service: A retrospective chart review
Authors: Burns Ryan , Firman Elise , Huang Hsin‐Chia Carol
Published: November 2022

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the multidisciplinary care model of the Canberra Obesity Management Service (COMS) with regard to patient demographics and clinical outcomes, particularly in comparison with previous COMS outcome reviews.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was carried out on all patients attending an initial assessment at COMS between July 2018 and June 2019. Existing patients attending follow‐up reviews were excluded so as to avoid repeating analyses of data from previous COMS reviews. Patient data were recorded and deidentified and underwent descriptive analyses.

Results

A total of 234 patients with a mean age of 45.6 (SD = 13.9) years, mean BMI of 50.1 kg/m2 (SD = 8.5), and a female majority (72.2%) were analyzed. Of the 165 patients who attended follow‐up appointments, 27.9% experienced ≥10% weight loss (46/165). Sleeve gastrectomy was associated with the largest mean weight reduction (15.6% at 6 months [n = 18]).

Conclusions

Compared with previous COMS studies, both the throughput and proportion of participants achieving clinically meaningful weight reduction were observed to have increased. Further studies assessing service cost‐effectiveness, the development of standardized treatment pathways, and the use of a systematic data collection system would be valuable in allowing comparison between outcomes with similar obesity services in Australia and internationally.
Novel polymeric platform produced by photodegradation‐induced rearrangement for a multifunctional negative photoresist
Authors: Yu Gang , Xu Qian , Lei Zhiyou , Lu Yanbing , Xu Weijian , Wu Ruoxi
Published: November 2022

Herein, a series of polymers containing the photosensitive 2‐dinitro‐benzenemethanol carbonate (DNBC) was developed by click polymerization. Due to the unique photochemical cleavage recombination behavior of DNBC, these polymers were used as negative photoresists to create micropatterns. Furthermore, the photochemical behaviors of DNBC were studied by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). According the results, we speculated that the photochemical reaction of DNBC involved an initial chemical bond‐breaking process and a subsequent recombination process. Importantly, by extending the aldehyde to a branched‐chain structure, reactive patterns were developed by film preparation. Clickable amine functional molecules could be grafted upon the substrates by surface modification. Surface modification of reactive patterns with fluorescent amines gave a multifunctional pattern with tunable properties confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal fluorescence microscopy.
Prenatal intracranial hypotension syndrome in congenital cephalocele: Insights into pathophysiologic mechanisms and importance of defect coverage
Authors: Sepulveda Francisco , Montoya Francisca , Vallejos Joaquin , Sepulveda Waldo
Published: November 2022

Objective

To compare specific fetal cranial and cerebral findings indicative of prenatal intracranial hypotension (PICH) syndrome between open and closed cephaloceles.

Methods

Two groups of fetuses with cephalocele who underwent magnetic resonance imaging scan were selected based on the defect coverage: covered (“closed cephalocele” group, n = 4) and uncovered by skin (“open cephalocele” group, n = 8). The presence of signs associated with PICH syndrome was evaluated and findings compared between groups.

Results

Cases from the open cephalocele group showed statistically significant differences in comparison with the closed cephalocele group regarding reduction of the interpeduncular angle (p = 0.006), reduced amount of cerebrospinal fluid in the subarachnoid space (p = 0.01), collapsed/severely reduced fourth ventricle (p = 0.03), cephalocele content (p = 0.03), and identification of a vector traction (p = 0.03). There were no differences in the presence of cerebellar tonsillar descent, obstructive ventriculomegaly, and presence of the lemon sign. In comparison with gestational age‐matched controls, only the biparietal diameter but not the head circumference was significantly smaller in both the open and closed cephalocele groups (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Congenital cephaloceles present distinct imaging behavior depending on the defect coverage. Therefore, the classification of cephalocele should include, in addition to location and content, the presence or absence of skin fully covering the defect.
Improvement of the self‐assembly of low χABA triblock copolymers with the addition of an ionic liquid
Authors: Guliyeva Aynur , Pung Hélène , Tencé‐Girault Sylvie , Rébillat Marc , Serghei Anatoli , Gervais Matthieu , Sollogoub Cyrille , Roland Sébastien
Published: November 2022

Self‐assembly of high molecular weight commercially available low χ ABA triblock copolymers with ionic liquids (ILs) was observed after solvent casting without the implementation of an additional annealing step. Here, the addition of an IL to a triblock copolymer poly(methyl methacrylate‐b‐butyl acrylate‐b‐methyl methacrylate) (MAM) with an elastomeric central block and rigid end blocks is proposed to tune the self‐assembled morphology. Two different compositions of this copolymer with different initial microstructures (ill‐defined morphology without long‐range order and a lamellar morphology) were selected. The selectivity of the IL addition in one of the block phases was studied through the evolution of the glass transition of both blocks. The impact of the IL weight concentration on the morphology as well as the domain spacing is presented. Adding IL to the first copolymer detected a lyotropic disorder–order transition towards a gyroid morphology, observed even for a high molecular weight copolymer due to the low χ parameter, and for higher IL content a second transition to a lamellar morphology was observed. For the second copolymer, only an order–order transition (lamellae to cylinders) could be detected at high IL content. IL also enhanced the long‐range ordering of the MAM morphology obtained through solvent casting without additional annealing steps, compared with the same composition without IL. © 2022 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Flirrende Lichtspiele
Authors: Suhr Wilfried , Schlichting Hans Joachim
Published: November 2022

Bei einem schnell rotierenden Toroflux aus glänzendem Stahlband erscheinen die Windungszwischenräume zu einem teiltransparenten Kontinuum verschmiert. Auf diesem sind Spiegelbilder von hellen Objekten in der Umgebung erkennbar. Außerdem treten je nach Hintergrund dunkle oder helle Streifen auf, die oberhalb einer Grenzgeschwindigkeit stationär im Raum schweben. Diese erstaunlichen und ästhetisch ansprechenden Phänomene lassen sich durch das Zusammenwirken von physikalischen und wahrnehmungstheoretischen Aspekten erklären.
Verschränkte Atome über 33 km Glasfaserstrecke
Authors: Bock Matthias , Becher Christoph , Fertig Florian , van Leent Tim
Published: November 2022

Quantennetzwerke ermöglichen sichere Kommunikation, verteiltes Quantencomputing und verbesserte Sensoren und Atomuhren. In einem gemeinsamen Experiment der LMU München und der Universität des Saarlandes ist es nun gelungen, zwei Quantenspeicher – in diesem Fall einzelne gefangene Atome – über eine Glaserfaserstrecke von 33 km miteinander zu verschränken.
Resonanz und Zersingen von Weingläsern
Authors: Vogt Patrik , Kasper Lutz
Published: November 2022

Nicht selten wird behauptet, dass Personen mit ausgebildeter Stimme in der Lage seien, Gläser zu zersingen. Im Internet kursieren zahlreiche Videos, die uns dies ebenfalls weismachen möchten. Die häufig mitgelieferte physikalische Erklärung ist dabei durchaus plausibel.
The residual structure of acid‐denatured β2‐microglobulin is relevant to an ordered fibril morphology
Authors: Tomiyama Ryosuke , So Masatomo , Yamaguchi Keiichi , Miyanoiri Yohei , Sakurai Kazumasa
Published: November 2022

β2‐Microglobulin (β2m) forms amyloid fibrils in vitro under acidic conditions. Under these conditions, the residual structure of acid‐denatured β2m is relevant to seeding and fibril extension processes. Disulfide (SS) bond‐oxidized β2m has been shown to form rigid, ordered fibrils, whereas SS bond‐reduced β2m forms curvy, less‐ordered fibrils. These findings suggest that the presence of an SS bond affects the residual structure of the monomer, which subsequently influences the fibril morphology. To clarify this process, we herein performed NMR experiments. The results obtained revealed that oxidized β2m contained a residual structure throughout the molecule, including the N‐ and C‐termini, whereas the residual structure of the reduced form was localized and other regions had a random coil structure. The range of the residual structure in the oxidized form was wider than that of the fibril core. These results indicate that acid‐denatured β2m has variable conformations. Most conformations in the ensemble cannot participate in fibril formation because their core residues are hidden by residual structures. However, when hydrophobic residues are exposed, polypeptides competently form an ordered fibril. This conformational selection phase may be needed for the ordered assembly of amyloid fibrils.
Foliar micronutrient applications enhance growth and yield of huanglongbing (HLB)‐affected sweet orange
Authors: Kwakye Samuel , Kadyampakeni Davie M. , Morgan Kelly , Wright Alan
Published: November 2022

Florida citrus production has declined by more than 70% because of Huanglongbing (HLB), and a major cause of tree decline is nutrient uptake limitations caused by HLB. This study was conducted on 6–9‐year‐old “Valencia” sweet orange [Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck] on Swingle rootstock in the central and southwest Florida to evaluate the effects of macronutrient fertilization and foliar application of Mn and Fe on growth and yield of HLB‐affected citrus trees in Florida. Seven treatments, including a control (standard fertilization), two levels of macronutrients (1× Macro and 2× Macro), and three levels of foliar micronutrients (F‐1×, F‐2×, and F‐4×), were arranged in a randomized complete block design in two locations for 3 years. Trees subjected to 1× Macro + F‐4× showed the highest average leaf Mn concentration for both sites through all years. The treatment that contained 1× Macro + F‐2× showed at least 4% increase in canopy volume for 2020 and 2021 at the central Florida site. However, trees subjected to 1× Macro + F‐2× showed at least 12% increase in canopy volume in 2020 in southwest Florida. In 2021, the trees that were subjected to 2× Macro + F‐1× resulted in 15% greater canopy efficiency than the control at the central Florida site. In 2021, citrus trees treated with 2× Macro + F‐1× increased yield at both sites. In general, the growth parameters and yield results showed that treatments subjected to supplemental fertilization over current recommendations have strong potential to increase citrus growth and yield.
Distributed fiscal relations and their imaginaries: Metaphors of redistribution and reciprocity in struggles about distributive justice in Austria
Authors: Streinzer Andreas
Published: November 2022

The article analyzes struggles about distributive justice in Austria, one of the wealthiest countries globally, and proposes a reinforced focus on how metaphors of redistribution and reciprocity create fiscal imaginaries. It analyzes how politicians, lobbyists, and activists strategically mobilize these metaphors in corporate and wealth taxation debates. Campaigns against wealth taxation portray wealth taxation as negative reciprocity and a threat to an imagined middle class. Those arguing in favor of them create images of unjustly appropriated value that needs to be redistributed. The article analyzes those shifts between notions of redistribution and reciprocity and the fiscal imaginaries created through these debates. Notably, the article argues for the necessity to embed discursive analysis within an understanding of contemporary capitalisms. It contrasts the fiscal imaginaries with challenges of fiscal relations, most importantly the distributed character of capital accumulation and the dilemma of the tax state, as governments orchestrate accumulation to capture parts of its value generated via taxation.
Design and Synthesis of Axial‐Chirality‐Containing Guanidine Catalysts
Authors: Iwakura Manaya , Ikeue Takahisa , Nakata Kenya
Published: November 2022

In this study, novel axial‐chirality‐containing guanidine catalysts were designed and synthesized, and their catalytic ability was systematically evaluated. In the presence of only 0.5 mol % catalytic loading, the catalysts were found to act efficiently in the silylative kinetic resolution of racemic 1‐indanols. Furthermore, a variety of substrates were applicable for the reaction with good‐to‐high s‐values.
The Winner Takes It All: Carbon Supersedes Hexagonal Boron Nitride with Graphene on Transition Metals at High Temperatures
Authors: Hemmi Adrian , Seitsonen Ari Paavo , Greber Thomas , Cun Huanyao
Published: November 2022

The production of high‐quality hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) is essential for the ultimate performance of 2D materials‐based devices, since it is the key 2D encapsulation material. Here, a decisive guideline is reported for fabricating high‐quality h‐BN on transition metals. It is crucial to exclude carbon from the h‐BN related process, otherwise carbon prevails over boron and nitrogen due to its larger binding energy, thereupon forming graphene on metals after high‐temperature annealing. The surface reaction‐assisted conversion from h‐BN to graphene with high‐temperature treatments is demonstrated. The pyrolysis temperature Tp is an important quality indicator for h‐BN/metals. When the temperature is lower than Tp, the quality of the h‐BN layer is improved upon annealing. While the annealing temperature is above Tp, in case of carbon‐free conditions, the h‐BN disintegrates and nitrogen desorbs from the surface more easily than boron, eventually leading to clean metal surfaces. However, once the h‐BN layer is exposed to carbon, graphene forms on Pt(111) in the high‐temperature regime. This not only provides an indispensable principle (avoid carbon) for fabricating high‐quality h‐BN materials on transition metals, but also offers a straightforward method for the surface reaction‐assisted conversion from h‐BN to graphene on Pt(111).
On‐Demand Removable Self‐Healing and pH‐Responsive Europium‐Releasing Adhesive Dressing Enables Inflammatory Microenvironment Modulation and Angiogenesis for Diabetic Wound Healing
Authors: Fu Meimei , Zhao Yitao , Wang Yue , Li Yue , Wu Min , Liu Qi , Hou Zhiguo , Lu Zhihui , Wu Keke , Guo Jinshan
Published: November 2022

Current diabetic wound treatments remain unsatisfactory due to the lack of a comprehensive strategy that can integrate strong applicability (tissue adhesiveness, shape adaptability, fast self‐healability, and facile dressing change) with the initiation and smooth connection of the cascade wound healing processes. Herein, benefiting from the multifaceted bonding ability of tannic acid to metal ions and various polymers, a family of tannin–europium coordination complex crosslinked citrate‐based mussel‐inspired bioadhesives (TE‐CMBAs) are specially developed for diabetic wound healing. TE‐CMBAs can gel instantly (< 60 s), possess favorable shape‐adaptability, considerable mechanical strengths, high elasticity, considerable wet tissue adhesiveness (≈40 kPa), favorable photothermal antimicrobial activity, excellent anti‐oxidant activity, biocompatibility, and angiogenetic property. The reversible hydrogen bond crosslinking and sensitive metal–phenolic coordination also confers TE‐CMBAs with self‐healability, pH‐responsive europium ion and TA releasing properties and on‐demand removability upon mixing with borax solution, enabling convenient painless dressing change and the smooth connection of inflammatory microenvironment modulation, angiogenesis promotion, and effective extracellular matrix production leveraging the acidic pH condition of diabetic wounds. This adhesive dressing provides a comprehensive regenerative strategy for diabetic wound management and can be extended to other complicated tissue healing scenarios.
Long‐term shear strength of RC beams based on a mechanical model that considers reinforcing steel corrosion
Authors: Frontera Alejandro , Cladera Antoni
Published: November 2022

Corrosion of stirrups (generally with small diameters and concrete covers) significantly affects the shear strength of reinforced concrete elements. As shear failures may lead to brittle collapses, hence the need to avoid them during structures' entire service life. The Compression Chord Capacity Model (CCCM), a shear mechanical model, was recently extended to predict the strength of corrosion‐damaged beams by identifying the model parameters that could be most affected by steel corrosion. In this paper, the CCCM is combined with two material deterioration models included in the new Spanish Structural Code, and considers carbonation of concrete or chloride ions, to predict long‐term shear strength evolution. Finally, a parametric analysis is carried out to explore the effect of the most influential parameters on shear strength degradation according to the used models and depending on different exposure classes.
Chlorphoxim induces neurotoxicity in zebrafish embryo through activation of oxidative stress
Authors: Xiong Yanxia , Wang Chengyuan , Dong Mengyi , Li Meifeng , Hu Chengyu , Xu Xiaowen
Published: November 2022

It is known that chlorphoxim is a broad‐spectrum and high‐effective pesticide. With the wide use in agricultural practice, chlorphoxim residue is also frequently detected in water, but its potential toxicity to aquatic life is still unclear. In this study, zebrafish is used as a model to detect the toxicity of chlorphoxim. Our results showed that exposure of high concentration of chlorphoxim at 96 h post‐fertilization (hpf) resulted in a high mortality and pericardium edema rate, a low hatchability rate and heart rate. The nervous system damage, swimming behavior alteration and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition were measured in zebrafish embryos after a 6 days post‐fertilization (dpf) of chlorphoxim exposure. The expression of neural‐related genes is abnormal in zebrafish embryos. Chlorphoxim exposure significantly increases oxidative stress in zebrafish embryos by inhibiting antioxidant enzyme (SOD and CAT) and activating reactive oxygen species (ROS). As expected, chlorphoxim exposure induces apoptosis by enhancing the expression of apoptotic genes (Bax, Bcl2, and p53). Astaxanthin (ATX), an effective antioxidant, was found to be able to rescue the neurotoxicity of chlorphoxim through relieving oxidative stress and apoptosis. Altogether, the results showed that chlorphoxim exposure led to severe neurotoxicity to zebrafish embryos, which was contributed to a more comprehensive understanding of the safety use of the organophosphorus pesticide.
Apply to be a BVA regional representative
Authors: Findon Amelia
Published: November 2022

Are you interested in representing the views of vets in your region to BVA Council? If so, read on as Amelia Findon, BVA's policy and governance director, explains more about the role.
Molecular detection of Babesia and Theileria from crossbred cattle in Sirajganj and Rangpur districts of Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain Md. Jakir , Raut Sanjana , Singh Rahul Pratap , Mishra Pravin , Hossain Md. Shahadat , Dey Anita Rani , Kabir Ajran , Anisuzzaman  , Talukder Md. Hasanuzzaman , Shahiduzzaman Md.
Published: November 2022

Background

Babesia and Theileria are potential threats to the livestock industry, causing considerable economic losses. These tick‐borne blood parasites are more prevalent in crossbred cattle than local cattle in Bangladesh.

Objectives

To confirm the species of Babesia and Theileria in crossbred cattle from the northern part of Bangladesh using conventional and molecular tools.

Methods

A total of 385 crossbred cattle blood samples were subjected to DNA extraction and PCR. For molecular detection, B. bigemina rhoptry‐associated protein 1a, B. bovis spherical body protein‐4, and Theileria spp. 18S rRNA were used as the marker genes.

Results

Using PCR, only 72 (18.7%) samples were found piroplasm positive, of which 12.2% Theileria, 4.7% Babesia, and 1.8% mixed infections. Both Babesia (7.3%), Theileria (7.7%) and mixed (2.8%) infections were detected in Sirajganj, and only Theileria (20.4%) was detected in Rangpur district. By PCR and nPCR we detected B. bigemina and T. annulata in Sirajganj district, and Theileria sp. in Rangpur district. The target gene sequences of isolated pathogens confirmed B. bigemina and T. annulata, and Theileria sp from these samples. Blood smears of all samples were also examined microscopically for Babesia and/or Theileria spp. and 14.3% of samples were found positive, of which 5.9% Babesia and 8.3% Theileria. Generally, the pathogens detected in Sirajgang and Rangpur were genetically related to South Asia, particularly South East Asian isolates.

Conclusions

These findings provide information for a better understanding of the epidemiology of Babesia and Theileria as well as to improve the approaches for diagnosis and control of tick‐borne diseases in Bangladesh.
Gastrointestinal consequences of lipopolysaccharide-induced lung inflammation
Authors: McQuade Rachel M. , Bandara Methma , Diwakarla Shanti , Sahakian Lauren , Han Myat Noe , Al Thaalibi Maryam , Di Natale Madeleine R. , Tan Marsha , Harwood Kiera H. , Schneider-Futschik Elena K. , Jarnicki Andrew
Published: November 2022

Background

Respiratory inflammation is the body’s response to lung infection, trauma or hypersensitivity and is often accompanied by comorbidities, including gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. Why respiratory inflammation is accompanied by GI dysfunction remains unclear. Here, we investigate the effect of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced lung inflammation on intestinal barrier integrity, tight-junctions, enteric neurons and inflammatory marker expression.

Methods

Female C57bl/6 mice (6–8 weeks) were intratracheally administered LPS (5 µg) or sterile saline, and assessed after either 24 or 72 h. Total and differential cell counts in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were used to evaluate lung inflammation. Intestinal barrier integrity was assessed via cross sectional immunohistochemistry of tight junction markers claudin-1, claudin-4 and EpCAM. Changes in the enteric nervous system (ENS) and inflammation in the intestine were quantified immunohistochemically using neuronal markers Hu + and nNOS, glial markers GFAP and S100β and pan leukocyte marker CD45.

Results

Intratracheal LPS significantly increased the number of neutrophils in BALF at 24 and 72 h. These changes were associated with an increase in CD45 + cells in the ileal mucosa at 24 and 72 h, increased goblet cell expression at 24 h, and increased expression of EpCAM at 72 h. LPS had no effect on the expression of GFAP, S100β, nor the number of Hu + neurons or proportion of nNOS neurons in the myenteric plexus.

Conclusions

Intratracheal LPS administration induces inflammation in the ileum that is associated with enhanced expression of EpCAM, decreased claudin-4 expression and increased goblet cell density, these changes may contribute to systemic inflammation that is known to accompany many inflammatory diseases of the lung.
Left atrial strain correlates with severity of cardiac involvement in Anderson-Fabry disease
Authors: Halfmann Moritz C. , Altmann Sebastian , Schoepf U. Joseph , Reichardt Constantin , Hennermann Julia B. , Kreitner Karl-Friedrich , Kloeckner Roman , Hahn Felix , Dueber Christoph , Varga-Szemes Akos , Kampmann Christoph , Emrich Tilman
Published: November 2022

Objectives

Cardiac involvement in Anderson-Fabry disease (AFD) results in myocardial lipid depositions. An early diagnosis can maximize therapeutic benefit. Thus, this study aims to investigate the potential of cardiac MRI (CMR) based parameters of left atrial (LA) function and strain to detect early stages of AFD.

Methods

Patients (n = 58, age 40 (29–51) years, 31 female) with genetically proven AFD had undergone CMR including left ventricular (LV) volumetry, mass index (LVMi), T1, and late gadolinium enhancement, complemented by LA and LV strain measurements and atrial emptying fractions. Patients were stratified into three disease phases and compared to age and sex-matched healthy controls (HC, n = 58, age 41 [26–56] years, 31 female).

Results

A total of 19 early-, 20 intermediate-, and 19 advanced-phase patients were included. LV and LA reservoir strain was significantly impaired in all AFD phases, including early disease (both p < 0.001). In contrast, LA volumetry, T1, and LVMi showed no significant differences between the early phase and HC (p > 0.05). In the intermediate phase, LVMi and T1 demonstrated significant differences. In advanced phase, all parameters except active emptying fractions differed significantly from HC. ROC curve analyses of early disease phases revealed superior diagnostic confidence for the LA reservoir strain (AUC 0.88, sensitivity 89%, specificity 75%) over the LV strain (AUC 0.82).

Conclusions

LA reservoir strain showed impairment in early AFD and significantly correlated with disease severity. The novel approach performed better in identifying early disease than the established approach using LVMi and T1. Further studies are needed to evaluate whether these results justify earlier initiation of therapy and help minimize cardiac complications.

Key Points

• Parameters of left atrial function and deformation showed impairments in the early stages of Anderson-Fabry disease and correlated significantly with the severity of Anderson-Fabry disease.

• Left atrial reservoir strain performed superior to ventricular strain in detecting early myocardial involvement in Anderson-Fabry disease and improved diagnostic accuracies of approaches already using ventricular strain.

• Further studies are needed to evaluate whether earlier initiation of enzyme replacement therapy based on these results can help minimize cardiac complications from Anderson-Fabry disease.
Risk factors for neurocognitive impairment and the relation with structural brain abnormality in children and young adults with severe chronic kidney disease
Authors: Lijdsman Sophie , Oostrom Kim J. , van Sandwijk Marit S. , Bouts Antonia H. , van Hoeck Koen , de Jong Huib , Oosterlaan Jaap , Bemelman Frederike J. , Königs Marsh , Groothoff Jaap W.
Published: November 2022

Background

Severe chronic kidney disease (CKD) in children and young adults has shown to be associated with abnormal brain development, which may contribute to neurocognitive impairments. We aimed to investigate risk factors for neurocognitive impairment and investigate the relation with structural brain abnormalities in young severe CKD patients.

Methods

This cross-sectional study includes 28 patients with severe CKD (eGFR < 30), aged 8–30 years (median 18.5 years), on different treatment modalities (pre-dialysis [n = 8], dialysis [n = 8], transplanted [n = 12]). We assessed neurocognitive functioning using a comprehensive test battery and brain structure by magnetic resonance imaging metrics of brain volume and white matter integrity (fractional anisotropy [FA] and mean diffusivity [MD] measured with diffusion tensor imaging). Multivariate regression and mediation analyses were performed between clinical CKD parameters, brain structure, and neurocognitive outcome.

Results

A combination of risk factors (e.g., longer time since kidney transplantation, longer dialysis duration and late CKD onset) was significantly associated with lower intelligence and/or worse processing speed and working memory. Lower FA in a cluster of white matter tracts was associated with lower intelligence and mediated the relation between clinical risk factors and lower intelligence.

Conclusions

Young severe CKD patients with a prolonged duration of kidney replacement therapy, either dialysis or transplantation are at particular risk for impairments in intelligence, processing speed, and working memory. Disrupted white matter integrity may importantly contribute to these neurocognitive impairments. Prospective, longitudinal studies are needed to elucidate the mechanisms involved in CKD and treatment that affect white matter integrity and neurocognitive outcome in young patients.

Graphical abstract
The socio-economic impact of renewable electricity generation with prosumer activity
Authors: Kettner Claudia , Kratena Kurt , Sommer Mark
Published: November 2022

In order to meet the targets of the Paris Agreement, a rapid and far-reaching phase-out of fossil fuels is required. Against this background, Austria aims to cover 100% of its electricity generation from renewable energy sources by 2030. To meet this target in a standard scenario of final electricity demand, renewable electricity generation needs to be expanded by 27 TWh compared to 2019 (11 TWh PV, 10 TWh wind power, 5 TWh hydropower, and 1 TWh biomass). With respect to the ambitious expansion target for PV, the contribution of households, i.e., prosumers, will be of crucial importance.

Depending on their background (most notably, type of building, income), the ability of different household groups to participate in the electricity market as prosumers—and hence, the possible distributive impacts of the electricity transformation—will vary substantially. Prosumers reduce the consumption of electricity from the grid and can thereby realize cost savings, increasing their consumption opportunities for other (non-energy) goods.

This paper investigates the economic and distributive impact of increasing household PV electricity generation in Austria until 2030. For this purpose, the household module of the macroeconomic model DYNK is expanded, differentiating the degree to which households engage in “prosumer” activities. A set of PV support policy scenarios is then defined to simulate the increase in the number of prosumers as well as the distributive impacts on the different household types and the macroeconomic impacts with the expanded model. The simulation results show a small but positive effect of increased investment in residential photovoltaic systems on the GDP. With respect to the distributive effects, the design of the support scheme is essential. Targeting support for low-income households also has positive impacts on GDP growth.