bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proton pump inhibitor use and risk of pneumonia: a self-controlled case series study
Authors: Maret-Ouda John , Panula Joni , Santoni Giola , Xie Shaohua , Lagergren Jesper
Published: June 2023

Background

Recent research indicates that use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) is associated with pneumonia, but existing evidence is inconclusive because of methodological issues. This study aimed to answer whether PPI-use increases risk of pneumonia while taking the methodological concerns of previous research into account.

Methods

This population-based and nationwide Swedish study conducted in 2005–2019 used a self-controlled case series design. Data came from national registries for medications, diagnoses, and mortality. Conditional fixed-effect Poisson regression provided incidence rate ratios (IRR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for pneumonia comparing PPI-exposed periods with unexposed periods in the same individuals, thus controlling for confounding. Analyses were stratified by PPI-treatment duration, sex, age, and smoking-related diseases. Use of histamine type-2 receptor antagonists (used for the same indications as PPIs) and risk of pneumonia was analysed for assessing the validity and specificity of the results for PPI-therapy and pneumonia.

Results

Among 519,152 patients with at least one pneumonia episode during the study period, 307,709 periods of PPI-treatment occurred. PPI-use was followed by an overall 73% increased risk of pneumonia (IRR 1.73, 95% CI 1.71–1.75). The IRRs were increased across strata of PPI-treatment duration, sex, age, and smoking-related disease status. No such strong association was found between histamine type-2 receptor antagonist use and risk of pneumonia (IRR 1.08, 95% CI 1.02–1.14).

Conclusions

PPI-use seems to be associated with an increased risk of pneumonia. This finding highlights a need for caution in using PPIs in individuals with a history of pneumonia.
The smallest worthwhile change on function from a self-management intervention for non-persistent low back pain
Authors: Fritsch Carolina Gassen , Ferreira Paulo H. , Lung Thomas , McLachlan Andrew J. , Ferreira Manuela L.
Published: June 2023

Purpose

To determine: (1) the smallest change in function patients would need to see following a self-management intervention for low back pain (LBP) to consider it worthwhile; (2) the association between patient-related factors and the magnitude of the smallest worthwhile change.

Methods

A cross-sectional analysis of 212 participants of the TEXT4myBACK randomised trial was conducted. At baseline, participants nominated the smallest change in function (0–30 scale) following a self-management program they would need to reach to consider it worthwhile. A multivariate regression model estimated the effects of demographic, comorbidities, lifestyle and LBP-related factors on the smallest worthwhile change estimates.

Results

On average, people with LBP need to experience an improvement of at least 9.4 points (SD: 5.7) in function to consider a self-management intervention worthwhile. Only baseline function severity was significantly associated with the smallest worthwhile estimate (−0.60; 95%CI  − 0.76,  − 0.44).

Conclusion

On average, an improvement of 9.4 points (or 31%) in function is considered by people with LBP as the smallest change that makes self-management worthwhile. Those with lower levels of function needed to experience greater improvements.
Does Risser stage accurately predict the risk of curve progression in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis treated with night-time bracing?
Authors: Heegaard Martin , Tøndevold Niklas , Dahl Benny , Andersen Thomas B. , Gehrchen Martin , Ohrt-Nissen Søren
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Risser stage is widely used as a marker for skeletal maturity (SM) and thereby an indirect measure for the risk of progression of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). The Scoliosis Research Society recommends bracing for Risser stages 0–2 as Risser stage 3 or above is considered low risk. Very few studies have assessed the risk of progression during bracing in Risser stages 3–4. The objective of the current study is to determine if Risser stages 3–4 provide a meaningful cutoff in terms of progression risk in patients with AIS treated with night-time bracing.

Methods

AIS patients treated with night-time brace from 2005 to 2018 with a Cobb angle between 25 and 40 degrees and Risser stages 0–4 were retrospectively included. Curve progression (> 5 degrees increase) was monitored until surgery or SM. Skeletal maturity was defined as either 2 years postmenarchal, no height development or closed ulnar epiphyseal plates on radiographs.

Results

One hundred and thirty-five patients were included (Risser stages 0–2: n = 86 and 3–4: n = 49). Overall, radiographic curve progression occurred in 52% while progression beyond 45 degrees was seen in 35%. The progression rate in the Risser 0–2 group was 60% and 37% in the Risser 3–4 group (p = 0.012). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, adjusted for Risser stages and age, only premenarchal status showed a statistically significant association with progression (OR: 2.68, 95%CI 1.08–6.67).

Conclusion

Risser stage does not provide a clinically meaningful differentiation of progression risk in AIS patients treated with a night-time brace. Risk assessment should include other more reliable measures of skeletal growth potential.
Standard versus low-dose computed tomography for assessment of acetabular fracture reduction using novel step and gap measurement technique
Authors: Robles Abrianna S. , Piple Amit S. , DeSanto Donald J. , Lamb Ashley , Gibbs Stephen J. , Heckmann Nathanael D. , Marecek Geoffrey S.
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Quality of reduction is of paramount importance after acetabular fracture and is best assessed on computed tomography (CT). A recently proposed measurement technique for assessment of step and gap displacement is reproducible but has not been validated. The purpose of this study is to validate a well-established measurement technique against known displacements and to determine if it can be used with low dose CT.

Methods

Posterior wall acetabular fractures were created in 8 cadaveric hips and fixed at known step and gap displacements. CT was performed at multiple radiation doses for each hip. Four surgeons measured step and gap displacement for each hip at all doses, and the measurements were compared to known values.

Results

There were no significant differences in measurements across surgeons, and all measurements were found to have positive agreement. Measurement error < 1.5 mm was present in 58% of gap measurements and 46% of step measurements. Only for step measurements at a dose of 120 kVp did we observe a statistically significant measurement error. There was a significant difference in step measurements made by those with greater and those with fewer years in practice.

Conclusion

Our study suggests this technique is valid and accurate across all doses. This is important as it may reduce the amount of radiation exposure for patients with acetabular fractures.
Outcomes of surgical resection for pulmonary metastasis from pancreatic cancer
Authors: Miyashita Yudai , Ose Naoko , Okami Jiro , Takami Koji , Sakamaki Yasushi , Ikeda Naoki , Hayakawa Masanobu , Higashiyama Masahiko , Kodama Ken , Susaki Yoshiyuki , Funakoshi Yasunobu , Maeda Jun , Shintani Yasushi
Published: June 2023

Purpose

As the number of long-term survivors of pancreatic cancer is expected to increase thanks to recent advances in multidisciplinary treatment and earlier diagnoses of pancreatic cancer, we are likely to encounter more cases of postoperative pulmonary nodules. We analyzed the clinical course and prognosis of resection of pulmonary metastases from pancreatic cancer to clarify the prognostic implication of pulmonary metastasectomy for pancreatic cancer.

Method

We retrospectively analyzed 35 patients who underwent resection of lung metastases after pancreatic cancer surgery. Short- and long-term outcomes and factors associated with the prognosis were analyzed.

Results

The observation period was 20 (range, 1–101) months, with 3- and 5-year survival rates of 88.3% and 64.5% from pancreatectomy and 44.1% and 28.3% from lung resection, respectively. A univariate analysis revealed that a period from pancreatic cancer resection to pulmonary nodule shadow detection of < 15 months was associated with a significantly lower overall survival from pancreatic resection than a longer period. Conversely, histological type, stage, size of lung metastases, and resection technique were not associated with the overall survival.

Conclusion

A long-term prognosis may be expected in some cases with a disease-free interval of ≥ 15 months. Our findings suggest that the disease-free interval may influence the prognosis.
The contralateral-based submental artery island flap: feasibility and oncological safety in oral cancer–related defect reconstruction
Authors: Ma Jingxin , Zhai Xuefan , Huang Min , Li Peiyao , Liang Yujie , Ouyang Daiqiao , Su Yu-xiong , Yang Wei-fa , Liao Guiqing , Zhang Sien
Published: June 2023

Objectives

Oncologic risk is a serious concern of submental artery island flaps. Here, we introduce the contralateral-based submental artery island flap (C-SAIF) and demonstrate its feasibility and long-term oncological safety in reconstructing oral cancer–related defects.

Methods

An anatomical study was performed concentrating on the pedicle length in seven cadavers. Then, a retrospective study was carried out on C-SAIF patients operated on by a single team. The standard surgical technique of C-SAIF was conducted. Outcomes including operative time, length of hospital stay, volume of intraoperative blood loss, and scores of the Multidisciplinary Salivary Gland Society (MSGS) questionnaire were compared with a similar cohort reconstructed with anterolateral thigh free flap (ALTF). In addition, oncological outcomes were evaluated by the 5-year cumulative survival rate between C-SAIF and ALTF patients.

Results

The pedicle length of C-SAIF was sufficient for the flap to be extended to the contralateral oral cavity. Fifty-two patients were included in the retrospective study, and nineteen of them underwent reconstruction with C-SAIF. The operative time of C-SAIF was shorter (p = 0.003), and the intraoperative blood loss was less (p = 0.004) than that of ALTF. There was no difference in MSGS scores. The results of survival analysis revealed comparable survival curves for the two groups in terms of overall survival, disease-specific survival, and disease-free survival.

Conclusion

C-SAIF is a feasible and reliable flap for reconstructing oral cancer–related defects. Moreover, it is an effective island flap to preserve the perforator and pedicle without compromising oncological safety.
Application of the data envelopment analysis technique to measure the environmental efficiency of the 27 countries of the European Union during the period 2012–2020
Authors: Cámara-Aceituno Juan , Hermoso-Orzáez Manuel Jesús , Terrados-Cepeda Julio , Mena-Nieto Ángel , García-Ramos José Enrique
Published: June 2023

In the last decade, we have experienced a changing geopolitical context that has caused changes in the energy context. In addition, human activity contributes to global warming or sea level rising, i.e., climate change. A set of action policies have been implemented to continue fighting against this environmental situation (such as the Paris Agreement, the COP27, or the European Green Deal for 2030); therefore, it is necessary to determine whether we are on the right track. It is compulsory to develop predictive models that accurately analyze the current status and the already path undertaken. To this end, this article analyzes the environmental efficiency of the 27 countries of the European Union (excluding the UK) using the so-called data envelopment analysis (DEA). In particular, economic (GDP and GDP per capita), environmental (CO2 and CH4 emissions), electricity production data, the volume of vehicles, and the industrial production rate of the different countries were collected to calculate environmental efficiency. Once these data were collected, the environmental efficiency was calculated using two methods based on the DEA. The results show that out of the 27 countries, only 12 have a relatively high environmental efficiency, although it could be improved, implementing a set of corrections. However, other countries have a low eco-efficiency performance and they must improve in the coming years. We can highlight that rich countries are closer to achieving high environmental efficiency than less developed countries.

Graphical Abstract
A structured comparison of causal machine learning methods to assess heterogeneous treatment effects in spatial data
Authors: Credit Kevin , Lehnert Matthew
Published: June 2023

The development of the “causal” forest by Wager and Athey (J Am Stat Assoc 113(523): 1228–1242, 2018) represents a significant advance in the area of explanatory/causal machine learning. However, this approach has not yet been widely applied to geographically referenced data, which present some unique issues: the random split of the test and training sets in the typical causal forest design fractures the spatial fabric of geographic data. To help solve this issue, we use a simulated dataset with known properties for average treatment effects and conditional average treatment effects to compare the performance of CF models across different definitions of the test/train split. We also develop a new “spatial” T-learner that can be implemented using predictive methods like random forest to provide estimates of heterogeneous treatment effects across all units. Our results show that all of the machine learning models outperform traditional ordinary least squares regression at identifying the true average treatment effect, but are not significantly different from one another. We then apply the preferred causal forest model in the context of analysing the treatment effect of the construction of the Valley Metro light rail (tram) system on on-road CO2 emissions per capita at the block group level in Maricopa County, Arizona, and find that the neighbourhoods most likely to benefit from treatment are those with higher pre-treatment proportions of transit and pedestrian commuting and lower proportions of auto commuting.
The Current and Retrospective Cognitive Reserve (2CR) survey and its relationship with cognitive and mood measures
Authors: Borella Erika , Ghisletta Paolo , Carbone Elena , Aichele Stephen
Published: June 2023

Cognitive Reserve (CR) is often assessed with surveys spanning demographic, lifestyle, and socio-behavioral variables. The role of both past and current life experiences on CR has, however, rarely been examined. We developed the Current and Retrospective Cognitive Reserve (2CR) survey to assess classical CR proxies (socio-economic status, engagement in leisure and social activities) and other dimensions of potential importance (family engagement, religious/spiritual activity) both currently (CRc; in later adulthood) and retrospectively (CRr; as recalled from younger adulthood). We administered the 2CR, measures of general cognitive functioning, working memory (WM), crystallized—vocabulary— and fluid—reasoning—intelligence, and depressive symptoms (DS) to 235 community-dwelling Italian adults (ages 55–90 years). We used exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses to examine the 2CR latent structure, and we estimated correlations of its dimensions with cognitive abilities and DS. Analyses confirmed a three-level factor structure with two global CR factors (CRc and CRr) at the top level, dimensional CR factors (socio-economic status, family engagement, leisure activity, social engagement, and religious/spiritual activity) at mid-level and observed items at the lowest level. Item-factor representations partially differed across CRc and CRr. Both CRc and CRr were positively correlated with measures of intelligence, WM and DS, but associations of measures of intelligence were stronger for CRr, whereas associations of WM and DS were slightly stronger for CRc. The 2CR can be considered a reliable survey for assessing CR proxies within a multidimensional, “life stage-dependent” framework insofar as CRc are CRr closely related but also differently associated with intelligence, WM, and DS.
The Implementation of CDC COVID-19 Recommendations for Testing, Isolation, Quarantine and Movement at Emergency Intake Sites of Unaccompanied Children in the United States, April 1–May 31, 2021
Authors: Bustamante Nirma D. , Sauber-Schatz Erin , Lee Deborah , Hailu Kibrten , Liu Yecai , Pezzi Clelia , Yonkman Joel , Gonzalez Jose , Appelgate Allen , Marano Nina , Posey Drew L. , Cetron Martin , Monterroso Edgar
Published: June 2023

In March 2021, Emergency Intake Sites (EIS) were created to address capacity shortfalls during a surge of Unaccompanied Children at the Mexico-United States land border. The COVID-19 Zone Plan (ZP) was developed to decrease COVID-19 transmission. COVID-19 cumulative percent (%) positivity was analyzed to evaluate the impact of the ZP, venue type and bed capacity across EIS from April 1–May 31, 2021. Results: Of 11 EIS sites analyzed, 54% implemented the recommended ZP. The overall % positivity was 2.47% (95% CI 2.39–2.55). The % positivity at EIS with the ZP, 1.83% (95% CI 1.71–1.95), was lower than that at EIS without the ZP, 2.83%, ( 95% CI 2.72–2.93), and showed a lower 7-day moving average of % positivity. Conclusion: Results showed a possible effect of the ZP on % positivity when controlling for venue type and bed capacity in a specific EIS group comparison, indicating that all three variables could have had effect on % positivity. They also showed that smaller intake facilities may be recommendable during public health emergencies.
The Influence of Zn Doping on the Cation Distribution and Antibacterial Activity of CoFe2O4
Authors: Shafaay Amira S. , Ramadan Rania
Published: June 2023

Nanoparticles of formula Co1-xZnxFe2O4 (x = 0.0, 0.3, and 0.5) were prepared successfully using a citrate-auto-combustion method. This work studies the substitution effect of the Zn2+ ion on the physical, chemical, and structural properties of CoFe2O4. The structure of the prepared samples was determined via X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transformed infrared spectrometer (FTIR). X-ray diffraction of the investigated samples ensures that all the prepared samples crystallite into single structure. There is a variation of crystallite size with change in Zn concentration as it is observed that the crystallite size increased from 16.01 to 30.56 nm by increasing Zn concentration. The Fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR) in range (390:4000) Cm−1 were used for studying the elastic properties of the prepared spinel ferrites. It is observed that, by increasing Zn concentration, all elastic moduli increased. The morphological and surface study of the calcined samples was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Gwyddion 2.45 software respectively. The roughness average (Ra) was 35.20 nm at x = 0 and increased to 46.6 nm at x = 0.5. At the room temperature, magnetic behavior of the all studied samples was studied. It is observed that the maximum saturation magnetization was 67.611emu/gm and it was related to Co0.7Zn0.3Fe2O4 while the highest value of exchange bias (HEB) was 2.15 Oe for Co0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4. The antibacterial activity of CoFe2O4, Co0.7Zn0.3Fe2O4, and Co0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 was successfully tested against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. The highest inhibition zone of Co1-xZnxFe2O4 values was 8 and 7.5 mm for E. coli and S. aureus, respectively, and these values were observed for x = 0.5. Generally, these results exhibit a high possible of ferrites for using in antibacterial applications.
Effect of organic photovoltaic and red-foil transmittance on yield, growth and photosynthesis of two spinach genotypes under field and greenhouse conditions
Authors: Ukwu Uchenna Noble , Agbo Joy Udoka , Muller Onno , Schrey Silvia , Nedbal Ladislav , Niu Yuxi , Meier-Grüll Matthias , Uguru Michael
Published: June 2023

The galloping rise in global population in recent years and the accompanying increase in food and energy demands has created land use crisis between food and energy production, and eventual loss of agricultural lands to the more lucrative photovoltaics (PV) energy production. This experiment was carried out to investigate the effect of organic photovoltaics (OPV) and red-foil (RF) transmittance on growth, yield, photosynthesis and SPAD value of spinach under greenhouse and field conditions. Three OPV levels (P0: control; P1: transmittance peak of 0.11 in blue light (BL) and 0.64 in red light (RL); P2: transmittance peak of 0.09 in BL and 0.11 in RL) and two spinach genotypes (bufflehead, eland) were combined in a 3 × 2 factorial arrangement in a completely randomized design with 4 replications in the greenhouse, while two RF levels (RF0: control; RF1: transmittance peak of 0.01 in BL and 0.89 in RL) and two spinach genotypes were combined in a 2 × 2 factorial in randomized complete block design with four replications in the field. Data were collected on growth, yield, photosynthesis and chlorophyll content. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed significant reduction in shoot weight and total biomass of spinach grown under very low light intensities as a function of the transmittance properties of the OPV cell used (P2). P1 competed comparably (p > 0.05) with control in most growth and yield traits measured. In addition, shoot to root distribution was higher in P1 than control. RF reduced shoot and total biomass production of spinach in the field due to its inability to transmit other spectra of light. OPV-RF transmittance did not affect plant height (PH), leaf number (LN), and SPAD value but leaf area (LA) was highest in P2. Photochemical energy conversion was higher in P1, P2 and RF1 in contrast to control due to lower levels of non-photochemical energy losses through the Y(NO) and Y(NPQ) pathways. Photo-irradiance curves showed that plants grown under reduced light (P2) did not efficiently manage excess light when exposed to high light intensities. Bufflehead genotype showed superior growth and yield traits than eland across OPV and RF levels. It is therefore recommended that OPV cells with transmittance properties greater than or equal to 11% in BL and 64% in RL be used in APV systems for improved photochemical and land use efficiency.
A Latent Space Diffusion Item Response Theory Model to Explore Conditional Dependence between Responses and Response Times
Authors: Kang Inhan , Jeon Minjeong , Partchev Ivailo
Published: June 2023

Traditional measurement models assume that all item responses correlate with each other only through their underlying latent variables. This conditional independence assumption has been extended in joint models of responses and response times (RTs), implying that an item has the same item characteristics fors all respondents regardless of levels of latent ability/trait and speed. However, previous studies have shown that this assumption is violated in various types of tests and questionnaires and there are substantial interactions between respondents and items that cannot be captured by person- and item-effect parameters in psychometric models with the conditional independence assumption. To study the existence and potential cognitive sources of conditional dependence and utilize it to extract diagnostic information for respondents and items, we propose a diffusion item response theory model integrated with the latent space of variations in information processing rate of within-individual measurement processes. Respondents and items are mapped onto the latent space, and their distances represent conditional dependence and unexplained interactions. We provide three empirical applications to illustrate (1) how to use an estimated latent space to inform conditional dependence and its relation to person and item measures, (2) how to derive diagnostic feedback personalized for respondents, and (3) how to validate estimated results with an external measure. We also provide a simulation study to support that the proposed approach can accurately recover its parameters and detect conditional dependence underlying data.
Is temperature change a key driver of the regional differences in electricity consumption of the economic sectors in Spain (2000–2016)?
Authors: Román-Collado Rocío , Colinet-Carmona María J. , Fárez-Plasencia María I.
Published: June 2023

Climate change has caused significant changes in temperature with different consequences depending on the geographical location of the regions, affecting among other aspects, electricity consumption (EC). Spain being a country that encompasses so many different temperature zones, this work analyses EC per capita among the Autonomous Communities (AC) of Spain through a spatial-temporal decomposition analysis during the 2000–2016 period. The regional differences are explained by four decomposition factors: intensity, temperature, structural and per capita income. The temporal decomposition results show that temperature changes in Spain between 2000 and 2016 have substantially affected the per capita EC. Likewise, it has been noted that in the 2000–2008 period, the temperature effect mainly acted as an inhibitor compared to the 2008–2016 period, in which an increase in the days of extreme temperature acted as a driver. The spatial decomposition reveals that the structural and energy intensity effects contribute to the AC moving away from average figures, while the temperature and income effects contributes to reducing the differences depending on the location of the AC. The results enable to determine the importance of establishing public policy measures aimed at improving energy efficiency.
The Role of Self-Esteem, Depressive Symptoms, Extraversion, Neuroticism and FOMO in Problematic Social Media Use: Exploring User Profiles
Authors: Packer Jennifer , Flack Mal
Published: June 2023

Problematic social media use (PSMU) is known to be associated with self-esteem, depressive
symptomology, extraversion, neuroticism and the fear of missing out (FOMO).
However, few studies have sought to understand how these psychological factors
may converge and differentially relate to PSMU severity. Thus, the current study
examined how these factors may present as different ‘user profiles’. A total of
574 participants completed an online survey, and hierarchical cluster analysis
and K-means clustering techniques were used to form profiles. A five-cluster
solution was identified. The clusters differed in PSMU scores and in order of
PSMU severity were identified as FOMO, Emotionally Vulnerable, Low-risk, Low
Extraversion and Protective profiles. These findings indicate a more nuanced
understanding of PSMU severity may be gained by considering how specific
psychological correlates converge as opposed to considering them as unique
predictors of PSMU. Future research may benefit from conceptualising PSMU from
a combined risk lens that prioritises the relationship between PSMU correlates.
Disrupting the opportunity narrative: navigating transformation in times of uncertainty and crisis
Authors: Moore Michele-Lee , Hermanus Lauren , Drimie Scott , Rose Loretta , Mbaligontsi Mandisa , Musarurwa Hillary , Ogutu Moses , Oyowe Khanyisa , Olsson Per
Published: June 2023

COVID-19 posed threats for health and well-being directly, but it also revealed and exacerbated social–ecological inequalities, worsening hunger and poverty for millions. For those focused on transforming complex and problematic system dynamics, the question was whether such devastation could create a formative moment in which transformative change could become possible. Our study examines the experiences of change agents in six African countries engaged in efforts to create or support transformative change processes. To better understand the relationship between crisis, agency, and transformation, we explored how they navigated their changed conditions and the responses to COVID-19. We document three impacts: economic impacts, hunger, and gender-based violence and we examine how they (re)shaped the opportunity contexts for change. Finally, we identify four kinds of uncertainties that emerged as a result of policy responses, including uncertainty about the: (1) robustness of preparing a system to sustain a transformative trajectory, (2) sequencing and scaling of changes within and across systems, (3) hesitancy and exhaustion effects, and (4) long-term effects of surveillance, and we describe the associated change agent strategies. We suggest these uncertainties represent new theoretical ground for future transformations research.
A new miniaturized microextraction HS-LPME-OIP procedure for ammonium determination based on Nessler's method
Authors: Skok Arina , Bazel Yaroslav , Vishnikin Andriy
Published: June 2023

A recently proposed combination of headspace liquid-phase microextraction with an optical immersion probe (HS-LPME-OIP) was adapted for the spectrophotometric determination of ammonium. The developed method is based on the conversion of ammonium ions to ammonia in a 0.15 M sodium hydroxide solution, followed by the absorption of ammonia by 200 µL of Nessler's reagent solution preliminary diluted with distilled water (1:16.7). The extracting phase, in which OIP was immersed, was placed into vial fixed in the headspace above the sample solution in a hermetically sealed vessel. The analytical signal was monitored for 30 min at 400 nm. The duration of the analysis can be flexibly adjusted and, if necessary, reduced to 5 min. The level of permissible concentrations of some interfering substances, including calcium, magnesium, iron and some organic compounds, was significantly reduced. The LOD was equal to 0.20 mg L−1, and the linear calibration range was from 0.70 to 15 mg L−1. The RSD ranged from 2.5 to 5.2%. The developed method was successfully applied to the analysis of natural waters, fertilizers and CRM samples.

Graphical abstract
Status report of the first AMS laboratory in the Czech Republic at the Nuclear Physics Institute, Řež
Authors: Kučera Jan , Brabcová Kateřina Pachnerová , Němec Mojmír , Kameník Jan , Trubač Jakub , Brychová Veronika , Světlík Ivo , John Jan , Garba Roman , Daňo Martin
Published: June 2023

The first accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) laboratory in the Czech Republic has been established and put into routine operation in February 2022. Here we briefly describe the facilities available, namely a 300 kV multi-isotope low-energy AMS system (MILEA) capable of determination 10Be, 14C, 26Al, 41Ca, 129I, isotopes of U, especially 236U, Pu and other actinoids, and accessories for 14C measurements, which include a gas interface system, a preparative gas chromatography system for compound-specific radiocarbon dating analysis, and an isotope-ratio mass spectrometer. The first results achieved for separation and measurement of the above radionuclides (except for 41Ca) are also reported, with the main focus on 14C measurements. A specimen breakdown of 729 graphitised samples analysed for 14C so far is presented, as well as a proof of measurement stability of the MILEA system obtained by analysis of radiocarbon standards and analytical blanks. For the other radionuclides, well proven or novel procedures for sample preparation and measurement are presented.
Die Berücksichtigung von außergesetzlichen Merkmalen bei der Mietspiegelerstellung – Kausalität versus Vorhersage
Authors: Kauermann Göran , Windmann Michael
Published: June 2023

Das neue Mietspiegelgesetz erlaubt die Berücksichtigung von sogenannten außergesetzlichen Merkmalen wie Mietdauer und Vermietertyp bei der Erstellung von Mietspiegeln. Diese außergesetzlichen Merkmale dürfen in zukünftigen Mietspiegeln bei deren Erstellung und Modellwahl Einfluss finden, nicht aber im konkreten Mietspiegelmodell. Diese gesetzliche Vorgabe lässt viel Spielraum, der in diesem Beitrag aus statistischer Sicht beleuchtet wird. Anhand von konkreten Daten werden die Konsequenzen quantifiziert und aufgezeigt.
Circulating cancer giant cells with unique characteristics frequently found in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS)
Authors: Ali Abdullah Mahmood , BenMohamed Fatima , Decina Alessandra , Mukherjee Sanjay , Levi Shelley , Garrido Castillo Laura Nalleli , Bréchot Davide , Jurcic Joseph , Raza Azra , Paterlini Bréchot Patrizia
Published: June 2023

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are incurable diseases characterized by dysplastic hematopoietic cells, cytopenias in the blood and an inherent tendency for transformation to secondary acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Since most therapies fail to prevent rapid clonal evolution and disease resistance, new and non-invasive predictive markers are needed to monitor patients and adapt the therapeutic strategy. By using ISET, a very sensitive approach to isolate cells larger than mature leukocytes from peripheral blood samples, we looked for cellular markers in 99 patients (158 samples) with MDS and 66 healthy individuals (76 samples) used as controls. We found a total of 680 Giant Cells, defined as cells having a size of 40 microns or larger in 46 MDS patients (80 samples) and 28 Giant Cells in 11 healthy individuals (11 samples). In order to understand if we had enriched from peripheral blood atypical cells of the megakaryocyte line, we studied the Giant Cells using immunolabeling with megakaryocytes and tumor-specific markers. We report that the Giant Cells we found in the peripheral blood of MDS patients primarily express tumor markers. Our results show that Polyploid Giant Cancer Cells (PGCC), similar to those described in solid tumors, are found in the peripheral blood of patients with MDS and suggest the working hypothesis that they could play a role in hematological malignancies.
Reduced Cerebellar BDNF Availability Affects Postnatal Differentiation and Maturation of Granule Cells in a Mouse Model of Cholesterol Dyshomeostasis
Authors: Lucarelli Micaela , Camuso Serena , Di Pietro Chiara , Bruno Francesco , La Rosa Piergiorgio , Marazziti Daniela , Fiorenza Maria Teresa , Canterini Sonia
Published: June 2023

Niemann-Pick type C1 (NPC1) disease is a lysosomal lipid storage disorder due to mutations in the NPC1 gene resulting in the accumulation of cholesterol within the endosomal/lysosomal compartments. The prominent feature of the disorder is the progressive Purkinje cell degeneration leading to ataxia.

In a mouse model of NPC1 disease, we have previously demonstrated that impaired Sonic hedgehog signaling causes defective proliferation of granule cells (GCs) and abnormal cerebellar morphogenesis. Studies conducted on cortical and hippocampal neurons indicate a functional interaction between Sonic hedgehog and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression, leading us to hypothesize that BDNF signaling may be altered in Npc1 mutant mice, contributing to the onset of cerebellar alterations present in NPC1 disease before the appearance of signs of ataxia.

We characterized the expression/localization patterns of the BDNF and its receptor, tropomyosin-related kinase B (TrkB), in the early postnatal and young adult cerebellum of the Npc1nmf164 mutant mouse strain.

In Npc1nmf164 mice, our results show (i) a reduced expression of cerebellar BDNF and pTrkB in the first 2 weeks postpartum, phases in which most GCs complete the proliferative/migrative program and begin differentiation; (ii) an altered subcellular localization of the pTrkB receptor in GCs, both in vivo and in vitro; (iii) reduced chemotactic response to BDNF in GCs cultured in vitro, associated with impaired internalization of the activated TrkB receptor; (iv) an overall increase in dendritic branching in mature GCs, resulting in impaired differentiation of the cerebellar glomeruli, the major synaptic complex between GCs and mossy fibers.
Zwischen Arbeitserleichterung und De-Professionalisierungsgefahr
Authors: Matthies Annemarie , Tetens Jakob , Wahren Juliane
Published: June 2023

Der Beitrag stellt Ergebnisse der ersten bundesweiten Befragung zur Digitalisierung in der Sozialen Arbeit (DIGITASA) vor. Dabei stehen die Perspektiven der in der Sozialen Arbeit Tätigen, die Digitalisierungsprozesse in der Praxis begleiten, umsetzen und bewältigen, im Mittelpunkt. Die Sichtweisen der Fach- und Führungskräfte auf die Ausstattung mit digitaler Technik sowie die Kompetenzen zur Nutzung digitaler Geräte werden dargestellt. Zudem werden die Pandemie als beschleunigendes Moment der Digitalisierung in der Sozialen Arbeit sowie Möglichkeiten und Grenzen zur Mitgestaltung des digitalen Wandels thematisiert.
Werkzame elementen van alcoholinterventies om (problematisch) alcoholgebruik bij 55-plussers te voorkomen en te verminderen: een systematische review
Authors: Boumans Jogé , van den Bulck Fieke A. E. , Bovens Rob H. L. M. , Dekker Guus , van der Mast Jurre M. , Dupont Hans B. , van de Mheen Dike , Rozema Andrea D.
Published: June 2023

Samenvatting

Inleiding

Problematisch alcoholgebruik neemt toe onder ouderen (55+). Veel interventies om alcoholgebruik te voorkomen of te verminderen, zijn gericht op volwassenen. Het is onduidelijk of deze interventies ook werken voor ouderen. Het doel van deze review was om te begrijpen hoe het komt (welke elementen), in welke context en waarom interventies (welke mechanismen) succesvol zijn in het voorkomen of verminderen van (problematisch) alcoholgebruik bij ouderen.

Methode

Een systematische review van artikelen gepubliceerd tussen 2000 en 2022 werd uitgevoerd met behulp van PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science en CINAHL. Een realistische evaluatiebenadering werd gebruikt voor data-analyse.

Resultaten

We vonden 61 onderzoeken over interventies gericht op het voorkomen of verminderen van (problematisch) alcoholgebruik, waarbij de meeste interventies niet specifiek ontwikkeld waren voor ouderen. Er werden drie belangrijke werkzame interventie-elementen gevonden: 1) informatie verstrekken over de gevolgen van alcoholgebruik; 2) persoonlijke feedback over drinkgedrag; en 3) in contact staan met anderen en hiermee communiceren over (alcohol)problemen. De eerste twee elementen werden gebruikt in de interventies die voor ouderen ontwikkeld waren.

Conclusie

Meer onderzoek is nodig naar alcoholinterventies voor ouderen en naar de manier waarop ouderen geholpen kunnen worden om contact te maken met mensen die hun keuze om alcoholgebruik te verminderen kunnen ondersteunen.
Existence results on Lagrange multiplier approach for gradient flows and application to optimization
Authors: Onuma Kenya , Sato Shun
Published: June 2023

This paper deals with the geometric numerical integration of gradient flow and its application to optimization. Gradient flows often appear as model equations of various physical phenomena, and their dissipation laws are essential. Therefore, dissipative numerical methods, which are numerical methods replicating the dissipation law, have been studied in the literature. Recently, Cheng, Liu, and Shen proposed a novel dissipative method, the Lagrange multiplier approach, for gradient flows, which is computationally cheaper than existing dissipative methods. Although their efficacy is numerically confirmed in existing studies, the existence results of the Lagrange multiplier approach are not known in the literature. In this paper, we establish some existence results. We prove the existence of the solution under a relatively mild assumption. In addition, by restricting ourselves to a special case, we show some existence and uniqueness results with concrete bounds. As gradient flows also appear in optimization, we further apply the latter results to optimization problems.
FEA-Based Simulation of Accelerated Ageing in a Power Cable Due to Sustained Partial Discharge Activities in a Spherical Cavity
Authors: Musa Umar , Mati Abdullahi A. , Mas’ud Abdullahi A. , Shehu Gaddafi S. , Rodríguez-Serna Johnatan M. , Al-Shammari Saud J. , Rohani Mohamad N. K. H. , Muhammad-Sukki Firdaus
Published: June 2023

The reliability of electrical assets is greatly influenced by the quality of their insulations. Key power installations such as power cables are manufactured with polymer-based materials as part of their insulation system. However, accelerated ageing of equipment insulations due to manifestation of defect(s), and partial discharges (PDs) can offset the operation of these systems or even lead to breakdowns. In this study, a non-deterministic model to simulate the phenomenon of repetitive discharges in a spherical air-filled cavity within a practical power cable has been investigated. In addition, the work contributes to the understanding of PD behaviour and field distribution under different ageing conditions considering changes in cavity surface conductivity. First, a section of the practical XLPE cable containing the cavity is developed in 2D using COMSOL software, and a finite element analysis (FEA) of the electric field distribution within the cable insulation is performed. The magnitude of the cavity local field, that is enough to ignite a PD, is investigated. Alongside the COMSOL model, the activity of sustained internal PD is simulated in MATLAB by introducing a random sample generating factor and adjusting the model’s parameters to obtain something close to the practical results. Furthermore, the impact of continuous PD in the power cable under different cavity dimensions and surface conductivity is likewise investigated, and a phase resolved PD (PRPD) pattern is established. The result shows that the magnitude and number of PDs per cycle increase as the cavity size and its surface conductivity increase. Finally, when the cavity surface conductivity rises, the amplitude of the electric field generated by the surface charge distribution and the number of PDs per cycle approach their maximum values.
The Effect of Intraoperative Hypotension on Postoperative Renal Function
Authors: Kim Benjamin , Sangha Gurleen , Singh Amrik , Bohringer Christian
Published: June 2023

Purpose of Review

This review summarizes the most recent literature on the association between intraoperative hypotension (IOH) and the occurrence of postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI). It provides recommendations for the management of intraoperative blood pressure to reduce the incidence of postoperative AKI. Fluid management strategies, administration of vasopressor medications, and other methods for reducing the incidence of AKI are also briefly discussed.

Recent Findings

Recent retrospective studies have demonstrated a solid association of IOH with postoperative AKI. IOH is associated not only with AKI but also with myocardial infarction, stroke, and death. Strict BP management to avoid a mean blood pressure less than 65mmHg is now recommended to reduce the incidence of postoperative AKI and other adverse outcomes.

IOH is robustly associated with AKI, and intraoperative mean BP should be maintained above 65 mmHg at all times. The etiology of postoperative AKI is however multifactorial, and factors other than BP therefore also need to be considered to prevent it.
A Systematic Review of using Virtual and Augmented Reality for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Psychotic Disorders
Authors: Lan Lucy , Sikov Jennifer , Lejeune Julia , Ji Chelsea , Brown Hannah , Bullock Kim , Spencer Andrea E.
Published: June 2023

Objective

Immersive virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) have the potential to improve the treatment and diagnosis of individuals experiencing psychosis. Although commonly used in creative industries, emerging evidence reveals that VR is a valuable tool to potentially improve clinical outcomes, including medication adherence, motivation, and rehabilitation. However, the efficacy and future directions of this novel intervention require further study. The aim of this review is to search for evidence of efficacy in enhancing existing psychosis treatment and diagnosis with AR/VR.

Methods

2069 studies involving AR/VR as a diagnostic and treatment option were reviewed via PRISMA guidelines in five databases: PubMed, PsychInfo, Embase, and CINAHL.

Results

Of the initial 2069 articles, 23 original articles were eligible for inclusion. One study applied VR to the diagnosis of schizophrenia. Most studies demonstrated that the addition of VR therapies and rehabilitation methods to treatment-as-usual (medication, psychotherapy, social skills training) was more effective than traditional methods alone in treating psychosis disorders. Studies also support the feasibility, safety, and acceptability of VR to patients. No articles using AR as a diagnostic or treatment option were found.

Conclusions

VR is efficacious in diagnosing and treating individuals experiencing psychosis and is a valuable augmentation of evidence-based treatments.
Expanding Pythagorean fuzzy sets with distinctive radii: disc Pythagorean fuzzy sets
Authors: Khan Muhammad Jabir , Alcantud Jose Carlos R. , Kumam Wiyada , Kumam Poom , Alreshidi Nasser Aedh
Published: June 2023

This article presents the circular Pythagorean fuzzy set (C-PFS) model, a generalization of the circular intuitionistic fuzzy set model that improves its performance thanks to the acclaimed extension of intuitionistic fuzzy sets to Pythagorean fuzzy sets. Then, we generalize C-PFSs to produce the novel disc Pythagorean fuzzy sets (D-PFSs). The constituent elements of both C-PFSs and D-PFSs are circular Pythagorean fuzzy values, either with a common or a distinctive radius. We lay out some fundamental algebraic and arithmetic operations on D-PFSs (hence on C-PFSs), namely union, intersection, addition, multiplication, and scalar multiplication, and we explore the main features of these operations. We propose and investigate the properties of the novel circular Pythagorean fuzzy weighted average/geometric aggregation operators. The “COmbinative Distance based ASsesment" approach, which is based on the Hamming and Euclidean distances, is expanded to the D-PFS framework. To justify its implementability, we apply the new methodology to a case study (selection of the best supermarkets to buy fresh fruit for a hotel) and then we compare it to related solutions.
A review of monitoring, calculation, and simulation methods for ground subsidence induced by coal mining
Authors: Cai Yinfei , Jin Yutian , Wang Zuoyang , Chen Tao , Wang Yaru , Kong Weiyu , Xiao Wu , Li Xiaojing , Lian Xugang , Hu Haifeng
Published: June 2023

Subsidence data acquisition methods are crucial to mining subsidence research and an essential component of achieving the goal of environmentally friendly coal mining. The origin and history of the existing methods of field monitoring, calculation, and simulation were introduced. It summarized and analyzed the main applications, flaws and solutions, and improvements of these methods. Based on this analysis, the future developing directions of subsidence data acquisition methods were prospected and suggested. The subsidence monitoring methods have evolved from conventional ground monitoring to combined methods involving ground-based, space-based, and air-based measurements. While the conventional methods are mature in technology and reliable in accuracy, emerging remote sensing technologies have obvious advantages in terms of reducing field workload and increasing data coverage. However, these remote sensing methods require further technological development to be more suitable for monitoring mining subsidence. The existing subsidence calculation methods have been applied to various geological and mining conditions, and many improvements have already been made. In the future, more attention should be paid to unifying the studies of calculation methods and mechanical principles. The simulation methods are quite dependent on the similarity of the model to the site conditions and are generally used as an auxiliary data source for subsidence studies. The cross-disciplinary studies between subsidence data acquisition methods and other technologies should be given serious consideration, as they can be expected to lead to breakthroughs in areas such as theories, devices, software, and other aspects.