bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting Post‐Hepatectomy Liver Failure Using Intra‐Operative Measurement of Indocyanine Green Clearance in Anatomical Hepatectomy
Authors: Sato Naoya , Kenjo Akira , Suzushino Seiko , Kimura Takashi , Okada Ryo , Ishigame Teruhide , Kofunato Yasuhide , Marubashi Shigeru
Published: August 2021

Background

Prediction of post‐hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) based on remnant liver function reserve is important for successful hepatectomy. The aim of this study was to investigate whether intraoperative indocyanine green (ICG) clearance in a future remnant liver was a predictor of PHLF.

Methods

This prospective study enrolled 31 consecutive patients who underwent anatomical hepatectomy between June 2016 and August 2019. Intraoperative ICG plasma disappearance rate (ICG‐PDR) and ICG retention rate at 15 min (ICG‐R15) were measured after clamping the selective hepatic inflow to the liver to be resected. The discriminative performance of the ICG‐associated variables for the prediction of PHLF grade B/C was evaluated by receiver operator curve (ROC) analysis.

Results

Of the operations performed, 87.1% were major hepatectomy. PHLF Grade B/C was observed in eight patients (25.8%) with no mortality. The concordance indices of intraoperative ICG‐PDR and ICG‐PDR for predicting PHLF were 0.834 (95% CI, 0.69–0.98) and 0.834 (95% CI, 0.69–0.98), respectively. A subgroup analysis of patients with preoperative biliary drainage (BD) (n = 17) showed that the concordance indices of intraoperative ICG‐PDR increased to 0.923 (95% CI, 0.79–1.00).

Conclusions

Intraoperative ICG clearance in the remnant liver was a promising predictor for PHLF in patients undergoing anatomical hepatectomy, especially in patients with BD.
Murine allele and transgene symbols: ensuring unique, concise, and informative nomenclature
Authors: Perry M. N. , Smith C. L.
Published: August 2021

In addition to naturally occurring sequence variation and spontaneous mutations, a wide array of technologies exist for modifying the mouse genome. Standardized nomenclature, including allele, transgene, and other mutation nomenclature, as well as persistent unique identifiers (PUID) are critical for effective scientific communication, comparison of results, and integration of data into knowledgebases such as Mouse Genome Informatics (MGI), Alliance for Genome Resources, and International Mouse Strain Resource (IMSR). As well as being the authoritative source for mouse gene, allele, and strain nomenclature, MGI integrates published and unpublished genomic, phenotypic, and expression data while linking to other online resources for a complete view of the mouse as a valuable model organism. The International Committee on Standardized Genetic Nomenclature for Mice has developed allele nomenclature rules and guidelines that take into account the number of genes impacted, the method of allele generation, and the nature of the sequence alteration. To capture details that cannot be included in allele symbols, MGI has further developed allele to gene relationships using sequence ontology (SO) definitions for mutations that provide links between alleles and the genes affected. MGI is also using (HGVS) variant nomenclature for variants associated with alleles that will enhance searching for mutations and will improve cross-species comparison. With the ability to assign unique and informative symbols as well as to link alleles with more than one gene, allele and transgene nomenclature rules and guidelines provide an unambiguous way to represent alterations in the mouse genome and facilitate data integration among multiple resources such the Alliance of Genome Resources and International Mouse Strain Resource.
A randomized, placebo-controlled trial investigating the acute and chronic benefits of American Ginseng (Cereboost®) on mood and cognition in healthy young adults, including in vitro investigation of gut microbiota changes as a possible mechanism of action
Authors: Bell Lynne , Whyte Adrian , Duysburgh Cindy , Marzorati Massimo , Van den Abbeele Pieter , Le Cozannet Romain , Fança-Berthon Pascale , Fromentin Emilie , Williams Claire
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Cereboost®, an American ginseng extract, has shown improved short-term memory and attention/alertness in healthy young and middle-aged individuals, potentially via modulation of the gut microbiome and upregulation of neurotransmitters such as acetylcholine. Here, we explored the effects of Cereboost® on cognition and mood in the first 6 h post intervention (acute), after 2 weeks daily supplementation (chronic), and whether 2 weeks daily supplementation altered the response to a single acute dose (acute-on-chronic). A concurrent in vitro study evaluated effects of repeated Cereboost® administration on human gut microbiota.

Methods

Cognitive effects of Cereboost® were assessed using a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial, with 61 healthy young adults. Modulation of the gut microbiome was concurrently modelled using the Simulator of the Human Microbial Ecosystem (SHIME®), using a young adult donor.

Results

Consistent with previous findings, Cereboost® improved working memory and attention during the immediate postprandial period; effects that were amplified following two weeks’ treatment (acute-on-chronic) compared to acute testing alone. Chronic supplementation improved cognition on an acetylcholine-sensitive attention task and improved mental fatigue and self-assurance aspects of mood. The parallel in vitro study revealed significantly increased acetate, propionate, and butyrate levels in simulated proximal and distal colon regions, linked with observed increases in Akkermansia muciniphila and Lactobacillus.

Conclusion

This study confirmed the promising effects of Cereboost® on cognitive function and mood, while suggesting a possible link to alterations of the gut microbiome and modulation of acetylcholine. Further studies will be required to unravel the underlying mechanisms that are involved.

Registration

The study was pre-registered at ClinicalTrials.gov on 6th July 2018 (Identifier: NCT03579095).
Vancouver B and C periprosthetic fractures around the cemented Exeter Stem: sex is associate with fracture pattern
Authors: Powell-Bowns M. F. R. , Oag E. , Martin D. , Clement N. D. , Scott C. E. H.
Published: August 2021

Introduction

The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with the level of periprosthetic fracture involving a cemented polished tapered stem: Vancouver B or Vancouver C.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of 181 unilateral periprosthetic fractures involving Exeter stems was assessed by three observers (mean age 78.5, range 39–103; mean BMI 27.1, 17–39; 97 (54%) male). Patient demographics, deprivation scores, BMI and time since primary prosthesis were recorded. Femoral diameter, femoral cortical thickness, Dorr classification and distal cement mantle length were measured from calibrated radiographs. Interobserver reliability was calculated using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). Univariate and multivariate analysis was performed to identify associations with Vancouver B or C fractures.

Results

160/181 (88%) Vancouver B and 21/181 (12%) Vancouver C-level fractures occurred at a mean of 5.9 ± 5.4 years (0.2–26.5) following primary surgery. Radiographic measurements demonstrated excellent agreement (ICC > 0.8, p < 0.001). Mortality was significantly higher following Vancouver C compared to B fractures: 90 day 14/160 Vs 5/21 (p = 0.05); 1 year 29/160 Vs 8/21 (p = 0.03). Univariate analysis demonstrated that Vancouver C fractures were associated with female sex, bisphosphonate use, cortical bone thickness, and distal cement mantle length (p < 0.05). On multivariate analysis, only female sex was an independent predictor of Vancouver C-level fractures (R2 =0.354, p = 0.005).

Conclusion

Most PFFs involving the Exeter stem design are Vancouver B-type fractures and appear to be independent of osteoporosis. In contrast, Vancouver C periprosthetic fractures display typical fragility fracture characteristics and are associated with female sex, thinner femoral cortices, longer distal cement mantles and high mortality.
Hydraulic insertions of cochlear implant electrode arrays into the human cadaver cochlea: preliminary findings
Authors: Geraldine Zuniga M. , Lenarz Thomas , Rau Thomas S.
Published: August 2021

Objectives

(1) To evaluate the feasibility of a non-invasive, novel, simple insertion tool to perform automated, slow insertions of cochlear implant electrode arrays (EA) into a human cadaver cochlea; (2) to estimate the handling time required by our tool.

Methods

Basic science study conducted in an experimental OR. Two previously anonymized human cadaver heads, three commercially available EAs, and our novel insertion tool were used for the experiments. Our tool operates as a hydraulic actuator that delivers an EA at continuous velocities slower than manually feasible.

Intervention(s): the human cadaver heads were prepared with a round-window approach for CI surgery in a standard fashion. Twelve EA insertion trials using our tool involved: non-invasive fixation of the tool to the head; directing the tool to the round window and EA mounting onto the tool; automated EA insertion at approximately 0.1 mm/s driven by hydraulic actuation.

Outcome measurement(s): handling time of the tool; post-insertion cone-beam CT scans to provide intracochlear evaluation of the EA insertions.

Results

Our insertion tool successfully inserted an EA into the human cadaver cochlea (n = 12) while being attached to the human cadaver head in a non-invasive fashion. Median time to set up the tool was 8.8 (7.2–9.4) min.

Conclusion

The first insertions into the human cochlea using our novel, simple insertion tool were successful without the need for invasive fixation. The tool requires < 10 min to set up, which is clinically acceptable. Future assessment of intracochlear trauma is needed to support its safety profile for clinical translation.
Vagal blockade suppresses the phase I heart rate response but not the phase I cardiac output response at exercise onset in humans
Authors: Fontolliet Timothée , Bringard Aurélien , Adami Alessandra , Fagoni Nazzareno , Tam Enrico , Taboni Anna , Ferretti Guido
Published: August 2021

Purpose

We tested the vagal withdrawal concept for heart rate (HR) and cardiac output (CO) kinetics upon moderate exercise onset, by analysing the effects of vagal blockade on cardiovascular kinetics in humans. We hypothesized that, under atropine, the φ1 amplitude (A1) for HR would reduce to nil, whereas the A1 for CO would still be positive, due to the sudden increase in stroke volume (SV) at exercise onset.

Methods

On nine young non-smoking men, during 0–80 W exercise transients of 5-min duration on the cycle ergometer, preceded by 5-min rest, we continuously recorded HR, CO, SV and oxygen uptake ($$ \dot{V} $$

V
˙

O2) upright and supine, in control condition and after full vagal blockade with atropine. Kinetics were analysed with the double exponential model, wherein we computed the amplitudes (A) and time constants (τ) of phase 1 (φ1) and phase 2 (φ2).

Results

In atropine versus control, A1 for HR was strongly reduced and fell to 0 bpm in seven out of nine subjects for HR was practically suppressed by atropine in them. The A1 for CO was lower in atropine, but not reduced to nil. Thus, SV only determined A1 for CO in atropine. A2 did not differ between control and atropine. No effect on τ1 and τ2 was found. These patterns were independent of posture.

Conclusion

The results are fully compatible with the tested hypothesis. They provide the first direct demonstration that vagal blockade, while suppressing HR φ1, did not affect φ1 of CO.
Reference data on anthropometrics, aerobic fitness and muscle strength in young Norwegian men and women
Authors: Aandstad Anders
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Anthropometrics, aerobic fitness and muscle strength are measured in one-third of all 18-year-old Norwegian men and women during yearly selection for compulsory military service. The large sample size and geographical representativity make these data valuable for reference. The main purpose of this study was to present reference data for anthropometrics and physical fitness in young Norwegian men and women.

Methods

All 154,659 subjects (66% men and 34% women, 17–21 years old) who completed physical examinations at conscript selection from 2011 to 2019 were included in the study. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated from height and weight measurements. Peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) was estimated from performance on a maximal treadmill test. Muscle strength was measured by isometric chest and leg press, or seated medicine ball throw, standing long jump and pull-ups.

Results

Mean BMI (SD) was 23.1 (3.4) and 22.9 (3.3) kg·m−2 in men and women, respectively (P < 0.001), and 24% of men and 21% of women had a BMI ≥ 25 kg·m−2. Estimated VO2peak was 52.9 (4.6) and 42.7 (3.9) mL·kg−1·min−1 in men and women, respectively (P < 0.001). Men performed significantly better than women on all muscle strength tests, with corresponding effect sizes varying from 1.14 for isometric leg press to 2.96 for seated medicine ball throw.

Conclusion

The presented reference data on physical fitness in young Norwegian men and women can be used to evaluate population health, serve as reference material for future studies and describes sex differences in several physical fitness parameters.
Anisakid and Raphidascaridid parasites in Trachurus trachurus: infection drivers and possible effects on the host’s condition
Authors: Macchioni Fabio , Tedesco Perla , Cocca Vanessa , Massaro Andrea , Sartor Paolo , Ligas Alessandro , Pretti Carlo , Monni Gianfranca , Cecchi Francesca , Caffara Monica
Published: August 2021

This study investigated the distribution of nematode larvae of Anisakidae and Raphidascarididae (genera Anisakis and Hysterothylacium) in Trachurus trachurus (Linnaeus, 1758) in the Ligurian and central-northern Tyrrhenian Seas. The relationship between the number of parasites and the length and weight parameters of the fish was assessed, and the possible effect of the parasites on the condition factor was evaluated. A total of 190 T. trachurus specimens were collected in July 2019. Parasites were found in 70 individuals. A total of 161 visible larvae were collected in the viscera. Morphological analysis revealed the presence of Anisakis spp. in 55 fish and Hysterothylacium spp. in 15 fish, while 5 fish showed coinfection with both genera. The specimens subjected to PCR (n = 67) showed that 85% of the Anisakis larvae analyzed belonged to the species A. pegreffii, while the remaining 15% belonged to hybrids of A. pegreffii-A. simplex (s.s.). A total of 58% (n = 7) of the Hysterothylacium larvae analyzed belonged to the species H. fabri, while 42% belonged to the species H. aduncum. Our results support the hypothesis that infection with these parasites does not affect the condition of the fish host analyzed, and that body size and depth are major drivers in determining infection levels with Anisakid and Raphidascaridid nematodes.
Energy expenses on prey processing are comparable, but paid at a higher metabolic scope and for a longer time in ambush vs active predators: a multispecies study on snakes
Authors: Bury Stanisław
Published: August 2021

Snakes are characterized by distinct foraging strategies, from ambush to active hunting, which can be predicted to substantially affect the energy budget as a result of differential activity rates and feeding frequencies. Intense foraging activity and continuously upregulated viscera as a result of frequent feeding leads to a higher standard metabolic rate (SMR) in active than in ambush predators. Conversely, the costs of digestion (Specific Dynamic Action—SDA) are expected to be higher in ambush predators following the substantial remodelling of the gut upon ingestion of a meal after a long fasting period. This prediction was tested on an interspecific scale using a large multispecies dataset (> 40 species) obtained from published sources. I found that the metabolic scope and duration of SDA tended to reach higher values in ambush than in active predators, which probably reflects the greater magnitude of postprandial physiological upregulation in the former. In contrast, the SDA energy expenditure appeared to be unrelated to the foraging mode. The costs of visceral activation conceivably are not negligible, but represent a minor part of the total costs of digestion, possibly not large enough to elicit a foraging-mode driven variation in SDA energy expenditure. Non-mutually exclusive is that the higher costs of structural upregulation in ambush predators are balanced by the improved, thus potentially less expensive, functional performance of the more efficient intestines. I finally suggest that ambush predators may be less susceptible than active predators to the metabolic ‘meltdown effect’ driven by climate change.
Mastication in Patients with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Types 2 and 3 is Characterized by Abnormal Efficiency, Reduced Endurance, and Fatigue
Authors: van der Heul A. M. B. , van Eijk R. P. A. , Wadman R. I. , Asselman F. , Cuppen I. , Nievelstein R. A. J. , Gerrits E. , van der Pol W. L. , van den Engel-Hoek L.
Published: August 2021

Mastication problems can have a negative impact on the intake of food and quality of life. This cross-sectional study characterizes mastication problems using clinical and instrumental assessments in patients with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) types 2 and 3 with self-reported bulbar problems. We included 27 patients (aged 13–67 years), 18 with SMA type 2 and 9 patients with SMA type 3 (of whom three were still ambulant) and applied a questionnaire, clinical mastication tests (TOMASS and 6-min mastication test), and muscle ultrasound of the mastication muscles. Non-ambulant patients demonstrated inefficient mastication as reflected by median z scores for masticatory cycles (z = 1.8), number of swallows (z = 4.3) and time needed to finish the cracker (z = 3.4), and limited endurance of continuous mastication as demonstrated by the median z scores of the 6-min mastication test (z = − 1.5). Patients reported increased fatigue directly after the 6-min mastication test as well as 5 min after completing the test (p < 0.001; p = 0.003). Reduced maximal mouth opening was associated with mastication problems (p < 0.001). Muscle ultrasound of the mastication muscles showed an abnormal muscle structure in 90% of both ambulant and non-ambulant patients. This study aims to understand the nature and underlying mechanisms of mastication problems in patients with SMA types 2 and 3 with reported bulbar problems.
Methyl salicylate as a signaling compound that contributes to forest ecosystem stability
Authors: Singewar Kiran , Fladung Matthias , Robischon Marcel
Published: August 2021

Key message

This review for the first time gathers the current state of knowledge on the role of plant and microbial methyl salicylate (MeSA) signaling processes in forest ecosystems. It aims to establish a basis for the use of high-MeSA-emitting trees as a silvicultural tool aiming to enhance stability and resilience in managed temperate forests affected by climate change.

Methyl salicylate (MeSA) is a volatile plant and microbial signaling compound involved in systemic acquired resistance (SAR) and defense against pests and microbial pathogens, and antagonists. MeSA emitted by plants is also believed to trigger SAR in neighboring plant individuals, thus contributing to the resilience of the entire plant community. In this review, we discuss volatile plant-to-plant communication processes with a special focus on MeSA and provide an overview about the occurrence of MeSA in fungi and other microbes. We summarize present findings on the role of MeSA in plants and particularly in birches (Betula spp.) and discuss the potential use of MeSA and MeSA-emitting plants in agriculture and forestry. MeSA levels in plant tissues are adjusted by methylation of salicylic acid to MeSA and the reverse process of demethylation. Some plant species possess constitutively high MeSA levels and thus are suitable for experiments of admixture of high MeSA plants, e.g., birches of the subgenera Betulenta and Acuminata in plant communities such as mixed forests. Furthermore, knowledge of candidate genes and the molecular pathways underlying high MeSA emission is expected to offer a basis for altering MeSA levels and/or the selection of high MeSA mutants.
Schrödinger–Newton equations in dimension two via a Pohozaev–Trudinger log-weighted inequality
Authors: Cassani Daniele , Tarsi Cristina
Published: August 2021

We study the following Choquard type equation in the whole plane $$\begin{aligned} (C)\quad -\Delta u+V(x)u=(I_2*F(x,u))f(x,u),\quad x\in \mathbb {R}^2 \end{aligned}$$

(
C
)

-
Δ
u
+
V

(
x
)

u
=

(

I
2

∗
F

(
x
,
u
)

)

f

(
x
,
u
)

,

x
∈

R

2

where $$I_2$$

I
2

is the Newton logarithmic kernel, V is a bounded Schrödinger potential and the nonlinearity f(x, u), whose primitive in u vanishing at zero is F(x, u), exhibits the highest possible growth which is of exponential type. The competition between the logarithmic kernel and the exponential nonlinearity demands for new tools. A proper function space setting is provided by a new weighted version of the Pohozaev–Trudinger inequality which enables us to prove the existence of variational, in particular finite energy solutions to (C).
Betrayed by the nervous system: a comparison group study to investigate the ‘unsafe world’ model of selective mutism
Authors: Melfsen Siebke , Romanos Marcel , Jans Thomas , Walitza Susanne
Published: August 2021

The study presented in the following verifies some assumptions of the novel ‘unsafe world’ model of selective mutism (SM). According to this model, SM is a stress reaction to situations erroneously experienced via cognition without awareness as ‘unsafe’. It assumes a high sensitivity to unsafety, whereby the nervous system triggers dissociation or freeze mode at relatively low thresholds. We examine whether there is a correlation between SM, sensory-processing sensitivity and dissociation. We compared a sample of 28 children and adolescents with SM (mean age 12.66 years; 18 females) to 33 controls without SM (mean age 12.45 years; 21 females). Both groups were compared using a medical history sheet, the ‘Selective Mutism Questionnaire’ (SMQ), a ‘Checklist for Speaking Behaviour’ (CheckS), the ‘Highly Sensitive Person Scale’ (HSPS), the ‘Child Dissociative Checklist’ (CDC), the ‘Adolescent Dissociative Experience Scale’ (A-DES) and the ‘Social Phobia and Anxiety Inventory for Children’ (SPAIK). Appropriate parametric and non-parametric tests were conducted to examine differences between groups. The results indicate that sensory-processing sensitivity was significantly higher in the group of children and adolescents with SM [X2(1) = 7.224, p = 0.0007; d = 1.092]. Furthermore, dissociative symptoms were more common in children and adolescents with SM than in controls [F(1, 33) = 13.004, p = 0.001; d = 0.986]. The results indicate that sensory-processing sensitivity and dissociation are important factors of SM that may hold important implications for the treatment.

Trial Registration

This study is registered with the ClinicalTrials.gov number NCT04233905.
Extended-duration thromboprophylaxis after ventral hernia repair: a risk model to predict venous thrombotic events after hospital discharge
Authors: Kumar S. B. , Mettupalli D. , Carter J. T.
Published: August 2021

Background

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a major source of morbidity and mortality after ventral hernia surgery, but the risk of VTE after discharge has not been reported.

Study design

Data from the American College of Surgeons-National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) were used to investigate the risk of post-discharge VTE. Current procedural terminology (CPT) codes identified all reported patients who underwent ventral hernia repair from 2011 to 2017. We created a multivariable regression model for post-discharge VTE, using the 2011–2016 dataset to develop the model and 2017 as a validation set. The prediction model was used to create a risk calculator as a mobile application.

Results

The rate of VTE after surgery was 0.62% (878 of 141,065) with 48% occurring after discharge from the hospital. The final predictor model consisted of eight variables: age > 60 years, male sex, body mass index (BMI) ≥ 35 kg/m2), operative time > 2 h, concurrent panniculectomy, post-operative hospitalization > 1 day, presence of bleeding disorder, and emergency operation. The model had good calibration and discrimination (Hosmer–Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test, p = 0.71; c-statistic = 0.71). Threshold analysis showed a strategy of extended-duration thromboprophylaxis was optimized when the risk of post-discharge VTE was > 0.3%.

Conclusion

Forty-eight percent of VTEs after ventral hernia repair occur after discharge, particularly in older, male, obese patients undergoing longer and complex operations that require hospitalization > 1 day. Post-discharge thromboprophylaxis should be considered in these patients, particularly when risk of VTE exceeds 0.3%.
Dogs can infer implicit information from human emotional expressions
Authors: Albuquerque Natalia , Mills Daniel S. , Guo Kun , Wilkinson Anna , Resende Briseida
Published: August 2021

The ability to infer emotional states and their wider consequences requires the establishment of relationships between the emotional display and subsequent actions. These abilities, together with the use of emotional information from others in social decision making, are cognitively demanding and require inferential skills that extend beyond the immediate perception of the current behaviour of another individual. They may include predictions of the significance of the emotional states being expressed. These abilities were previously believed to be exclusive to primates. In this study, we presented adult domestic dogs with a social interaction between two unfamiliar people, which could be positive, negative or neutral. After passively witnessing the actors engaging silently with each other and with the environment, dogs were given the opportunity to approach a food resource that varied in accessibility. We found that the available emotional information was more relevant than the motivation of the actors (i.e. giving something or receiving something) in predicting the dogs’ responses. Thus, dogs were able to access implicit information from the actors’ emotional states and appropriately use the affective information to make context-dependent decisions. The findings demonstrate that a non-human animal can actively acquire information from emotional expressions, infer some form of emotional state and use this functionally to make decisions.
Experimental Evaluation of Airlift Performance for Vertical Pumping of Water in Underground Mines
Authors: Enany Parviz , Shevchenko Oleksandr , Drebenstedt Carsten
Published: August 2021

This paper presents experimental studies on the optimization of air–water flow in an airlift pump. Airlift pumps use compressed gas to verticall transport liquids and slurries. Due to the lack of theoretical equations for designing and predicting flow regimes, experimental investigations must be carried out to find the best condition to operate an airlift pump at high efficiency. We used a new air injection system and different submergence ratios to evaluate the output of a simple pump for vertical displacement of water in an underground mine. The tests were carried out in a new device with 5.64 m height and 10.2 cm circular riser pipe. Three air-jacket pipes, at different gas flows in the range of 0.002–0.09 m3/s were investigated with eight submergence ratios. It was found that with the same air flow rate, the most efficient flow of water was achieved when an air jacket with 3 mm diameter holes was used with a submergence ratio between 0.6 and 0.75. In addition, a comparison of practical results with two theoretical models proposed by other investigators showed that neither was able to accurately predict airlift performance in air–water flow mode.
Prediction or causality? A scoping review of their conflation within current observational research
Authors: Ramspek Chava L. , Steyerberg Ewout W. , Riley Richard D. , Rosendaal Frits R. , Dekkers Olaf M. , Dekker Friedo W. , van Diepen Merel
Published: August 2021

Etiological research aims to uncover causal effects, whilst prediction research aims to forecast an outcome with the best accuracy. Causal and prediction research usually require different methods, and yet their findings may get conflated when reported and interpreted. The aim of the current study is to quantify the frequency of conflation between etiological and prediction research, to discuss common underlying mistakes and provide recommendations on how to avoid these. Observational cohort studies published in January 2018 in the top-ranked journals of six distinct medical fields (Cardiology, Clinical Epidemiology, Clinical Neurology, General and Internal Medicine, Nephrology and Surgery) were included for the current scoping review. Data on conflation was extracted through signaling questions. In total, 180 studies were included. Overall, 26% (n = 46) contained conflation between etiology and prediction. The frequency of conflation varied across medical field and journal impact factor. From the causal studies 22% was conflated, mainly due to the selection of covariates based on their ability to predict without taking the causal structure into account. Within prediction studies 38% was conflated, the most frequent reason was a causal interpretation of covariates included in a prediction model. Conflation of etiology and prediction is a common methodological error in observational medical research and more frequent in prediction studies. As this may lead to biased estimations and erroneous conclusions, researchers must be careful when designing, interpreting and disseminating their research to ensure this conflation is avoided.
Hybrid inorganic-organic fluorescent silica nanoparticles—influence of dye binding modes on dye leaching
Authors: Klippel Nadja , Jung Gregor , Kickelbick Guido
Published: August 2021

Silica nanoparticles with embedded fluorescent dyes represent an important class of markers for example in biological imaging. We systematically studied the various incorporation mechanisms of fluorescent xanthene dyes in 30–40 nm silica nanoparticles. An important parameter was the interaction of the dye with the matrix material, either by weak electrostatic or strong covalent interactions, which also has implications on the stability of fluorescence and brightness of the dyes. Factors that can influence leaching of dyes such as the position of the dyes in particles and the intensity of the particle-dye interaction were investigated by using the solvatochromic effect of xanthene dyes and by stationary fluorescence anisotropy measurements. We compared uranine and rhodamine B, which were physically embedded, with modified fluorescein isothiocyanate and rhodamine B isothiocyanate, which were covalently bound to the silica matrix within a usual Stöber synthesis. Systematic leaching studies of time spans up to 4 days revealed that covalent bonding of dyes like fluorescein isothiocyanate or rhodamine B isothiocyanate is necessary for fluorescence stability, since dyes bound by physical interaction tend to leach out of porous silica networks. Coverage of silica particles with hydrophobic protection layers of alkyltrialkoxysilanes or hydrophilic polyethylene glycol (PEG) groups resulted in a better retention of physisorbed dyes and provides the possibility to adapt the particles to the polarity of the medium. Best results were archived with PEG groups, but even small trimethylsilyl (TMS) groups already reduce leaching.
Business model innovation: a review of the process-based literature
Authors: Andreini Daniela , Bettinelli Cristina , Foss Nicolai J. , Mismetti Marco
Published: August 2021

Research on business model innovation (BMI) processes is blossoming and expanding in many directions. Hence, the time is ripe to summarize and systematize this body of knowledge for the benefit of current and future BMI scholars. In this article, we take stock of the current literature to clarify the concept of a BMI process, develop a categorization scheme (a “BMI process framework”), and discuss future research possibilities. Building on a systematic literature review of 114 papers, our categorization delineates different types of BMI processes and corresponding sub-processes. Moreover, we develop a framework that illustrates how BMI processes are interrelated and interconnected. Finally, we identify the main process-related research gaps in BMI research and provide directions for future research that emerge from our categorization and discussion.
ATP transporters in the joints
Authors: Larrañaga-Vera Ane , Marco-Bonilla Miguel , Largo Raquel , Herrero-Beaumont Gabriel , Mediero Aránzazu , Cronstein Bruce
Published: August 2021

Extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) plays a central role in a wide variety of joint diseases. ATP is generated intracellularly, and the concentration of the extracellular ATP pool is determined by the regulation of its transport out of the cell. A variety of ATP transporters have been described, with connexins and pannexins the most commonly cited. Both form intercellular channels, known as gap junctions, that facilitate the transport of various small molecules between cells and mediate cell–cell communication. Connexins and pannexins also form pores, or hemichannels, that are permeable to certain molecules, including ATP. All joint tissues express one or more connexins and pannexins, and their expression is altered in some pathological conditions, such as osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), indicating that they may be involved in the onset and progression of these pathologies. The aging of the global population, along with increases in the prevalence of obesity and metabolic dysfunction, is associated with a rising frequency of joint diseases along with the increased costs and burden of related illness. The modulation of connexins and pannexins represents an attractive therapeutic target in joint disease, but their complex regulation, their combination of gap-junction-dependent and -independent functions, and their interplay between gap junction and hemichannel formation are not yet fully elucidated. In this review, we try to shed light on the regulation of these proteins and their roles in ATP transport to the extracellular space in the context of joint disease, and specifically OA and RA.
A Lasso and a Regression Tree Mixed-Effect Model with Random Effects for the Level, the Residual Variance, and the Autocorrelation
Authors: Nestler Steffen , Humberg Sarah
Published: August 2021

Research in psychology is experiencing a rapid increase in the availability of intensive longitudinal data. To use such data for predicting feelings, beliefs, and behavior, recent methodological work suggested combinations of the longitudinal mixed-effect model with Lasso regression or with regression trees. The present article adds to this literature by suggesting an extension of these models that—in addition to a random effect for the mean level—also includes a random effect for the within-subject variance and a random effect for the autocorrelation. After introducing the extended mixed-effect location scale (E-MELS), the extended mixed-effect location-scale Lasso model (Lasso E-MELS), and the extended mixed-effect location-scale tree model (E-MELS trees), we show how its parameters can be estimated using a marginal maximum likelihood approach. Using real and simulated example data, we illustrate how to use E-MELS, Lasso E-MELS, and E-MELS trees for building prediction models to forecast individuals’ daily nervousness. The article is accompanied by an R package (called mels) and functions that support users in the application of the suggested models.
On the Control of Psychological Networks
Authors: Henry Teague R. , Robinaugh Donald J. , Fried Eiko I.
Published: August 2021

The combination of network theory and network psychometric methods has opened up a variety of new ways to conceptualize and study psychological disorders. The idea of psychological disorders as dynamic systems has sparked interest in developing interventions based on results of network analytic tools. However, simply estimating a network model is not sufficient for determining which symptoms might be most effective to intervene upon, nor is it sufficient for determining the potential efficacy of any given intervention. In this paper, we attempt to remedy this gap by introducing fundamental concepts of control theory to both psychometricians and applied psychologists. We introduce two controllability statistics to the psychometric literature, average and modal controllability, to facilitate selecting the best set of intervention targets. Following this introduction, we show how intervention scientists can probe the effects of both theoretical and empirical interventions on networks derived from real data and demonstrate how simulations can account for intervention cost and the desire to reduce specific symptoms. Every step is based on rich clinical EMA data from a sample of subjects undergoing treatment for complicated grief, with a focus on the outcome suicidal ideation. All methods are implemented in an open-source R package netcontrol, and complete code for replicating the analyses in this manuscript are available online.
Getting to the heart of transformation
Authors: Vogel Coleen , O’Brien Karen
Published: August 2021

Climate change, biodiversity loss, the COVID-19 pandemic, and growing inequity and poverty are some of the key global challenges facing us today. These multiple and interacting crises have elicited growing appeals to the need for transformation. Yet while the scholarly literature on transformations is expanding rapidly, the concept risks becoming an empty buzzword or an alibi for superficial interventions and business-as-usual responses within research, policy and practice communities. In this perspective, we look more closely at what is needed to generate the deep and enduring changes that are called for to address multiple, interacting challenges. We do this by focusing on the prefix ‘trans-’, which signifies moving “across, over, or beyond” the current state of affairs, and we consider how the potential for equitable and sustainable transformations lies in our capacity to transcend entrenched boundaries and limits. Focusing on transdisciplinary, transgressive, and transcendent approaches, we reflect on how individuals, groups, and organizations can plant seeds and help to nurture the potential for radical transformative change at all scales.
Men increase time spent on a charitable task when in the presence of women and other men: Evidence of competitive altruism in online mating scenarios
Authors: Farmer Shannon , Farrelly Daniel
Published: August 2021

Previous research shows that competition can increase altruistic behaviour, however, the majority of such research focuses on financial costs and so our understanding is currently limited. Subsequently, the present study explored how competitive altruism can affect prosocial behaviour where time spent is the currency, using a real world charity. A sample of 67 men and 71 women completed the online altruistic task. As hypothesised, significant differences in giving behaviour due to competition were present in men but not women, suggesting that men use time spent here as a signal in mate choice scenarios. These findings therefore expand upon previous research on financial altruism, using artificial and/or hypothetical scenarios, by demonstrating that competitive altruism can be applied to real-world scenarios, where prosocial behaviours are of benefit. It also builds on previous research showing that men can compete with other men to display their altruistic nature to potential mates.
Positron lifetime spectroscopy applied to pure Tellurium
Authors: Domínguez-Reyes Ricardo
Published: August 2021

High-purity crystalline Tellurium has been investigated using positron lifetime spectroscopy technique in order to determine basic information missing in the current experimental knowledge of the positron annihilation spectroscopy field. Three different pairs of samples have been studied in the as-received state and, in order to eliminate the vacancy-type defects, after consecutive isothermal treatments at 300 °C. Lifetime corresponding to the annihilation in the Tellurium bulk has been determined as 282(1) ps. Previous theoretical calculations present in the bibliography that used different methods and parameterization provided a wide range of values for the annihilation lifetime of the positron in the bulk of Tellurium. The obtained result has been used to identify the most accurate results among them.
Development of Machine Learning Models to Predict Probabilities and Types of Stroke at Prehospital Stage: the Japan Urgent Stroke Triage Score Using Machine Learning (JUST-ML)
Authors: Uchida Kazutaka , Kouno Junichi , Yoshimura Shinichi , Kinjo Norito , Sakakibara Fumihiro , Araki Hayato , Morimoto Takeshi
Published: August 2021

In conjunction with recent advancements in machine learning (ML), such technologies have been applied in various fields owing to their high predictive performance. We tried to develop prehospital stroke scale with ML. We conducted multi-center retrospective and prospective cohort study. The training cohort had eight centers in Japan from June 2015 to March 2018, and the test cohort had 13 centers from April 2019 to March 2020. We use the three different ML algorithms (logistic regression, random forests, XGBoost) to develop models. Main outcomes were large vessel occlusion (LVO), intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), and cerebral infarction (CI) other than LVO. The predictive abilities were validated in the test cohort with accuracy, positive predictive value, sensitivity, specificity, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), and F score. The training cohort included 3178 patients with 337 LVO, 487 ICH, 131 SAH, and 676 CI cases, and the test cohort included 3127 patients with 183 LVO, 372 ICH, 90 SAH, and 577 CI cases. The overall accuracies were 0.65, and the positive predictive values, sensitivities, specificities, AUCs, and F scores were stable in the test cohort. The classification abilities were also fair for all ML models. The AUCs for LVO of logistic regression, random forests, and XGBoost were 0.89, 0.89, and 0.88, respectively, in the test cohort, and these values were higher than the previously reported prediction models for LVO. The ML models developed to predict the probability and types of stroke at the prehospital stage had superior predictive abilities.
Experimental Philosophy and the Incentivisation Challenge: a Proposed Application of the Bayesian Truth Serum
Authors: Schoenegger Philipp
Published: August 2021

A key challenge in experimental social science research is the incentivisation of subjects such that they take the tasks presented to them seriously and answer honestly. If subject responses can be evaluated against an objective baseline, a standard way of incentivising participants is by rewarding them monetarily as a function of their performance. However, the subject area of experimental philosophy is such that this mode of incentivisation is not applicable as participant responses cannot easily be scored along a true-false spectrum by the experimenters. We claim that experimental philosophers’ neglect of and claims of unimportance about incentivisation mechanisms in their surveys and experiments has plausibly led to poorer data quality and worse conclusions drawn overall, potentially threatening the research programme of experimental philosophy in the long run. As a solution to this, we propose the adoption of the Bayesian Truth Serum, an incentive-compatible mechanism used in economics and marketing, designed for eliciting honest responding in subjective data designs by rewarding participant answers that are surprisingly common. We argue that the Bayesian Truth Serum (i) adequately addresses the issue of incentive compatibility in subjective data research designs and (ii) that it should be applied to the vast majority of research in experimental philosophy. Further, we (iii) provide an empirical application of the method, demonstrating its qualified impact on the distribution of answers on a number of standard experimental philosophy items and outline guidance for researchers aiming to apply this mechanism in future research by specifying the additional costs and design steps involved.
Psychological Well-Being of Trans* People in Italy During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Critical Issues and Personal Experiences
Authors: Mirabella Marta , Senofonte Giulia , Giovanardi Guido , Lingiardi Vittorio , Fortunato Alexandro , Lombardo Francesco , Speranza Anna Maria
Published: August 2021

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic represents risk to physical health and psychological well-being. Specifically, it causes concerns among minoritized communities, such as transgender/non-binary individuals. The study investigates the experience of this group in Italy during the pandemic and identifies risk factors that exerted negative impacts on psychological well-being and physical health.

Methods

The study developed an online questionnaire to investigate psychological status, access to medical health services, and factors such as predictors of risk outcomes among transgender/non-binary people during lockdown restrictions. Responses were collected (n = 256) on April 2020. Descriptive analysis, univariate analysis of variance, and t-test were conducted.

Results

The respondents confirmed several issues, such as worries about the future (58.2%), negative emotions (46.9%), and self-uncertainty (52.7%) during the pandemic. Difficulties in undertaking hormone therapy and access to health facilities were reported. Living with family members represented a significant stressor for psychological well-being, whereas lack of support from LGBT + communities was reported. Subjects undergoing psychological therapy during the pandemic reported increases in depression, anxiety, somatization, and lack of privacy in the household.

Conclusions

The study findings provide a framework for critical aspects experienced by transgender/non-binary individuals during the pandemic. Specifically, the study provides evidence of the vulnerability of this population underlined by multiple difficulties.

Policy Implications

The study findings provide an overview of the experience of transgender and non-binary people during the pandemic, insights regarding risk factors, and aspects that require adequate attention and care.
On strongly coseparable modules
Authors: Ech-chaouy Rachid , Idelhadj Abdelouahab , Tribak Rachid
Published: August 2021

A module M is called $$\mathfrak {s}$$
s
-coseparable if for every nonzero submodule U of M such that M/U is finitely generated, there exists a nonzero direct summand V of M such that $$V \subseteq U$$

V
⊆
U

and M/V is finitely generated. It is shown that every non-finitely generated free module is $$\mathfrak {s}$$
s
-coseparable but a finitely generated free module is not, in general, $$\mathfrak {s}$$
s
-coseparable. We prove that the class of $$\mathfrak {s}$$
s
-coseparable modules over a right noetherian ring is closed under finite direct sums. We show that the class of commutative rings R for which every cyclic R-module is $$\mathfrak {s}$$
s
-coseparable is exactly that of von Neumann regular rings. Some examples of modules M for which every direct summand of M is $$\mathfrak {s}$$
s
-coseparable are provided.