bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exposure–response analysis of efficacy and safety for pexidartinib in patients with tenosynovial giant cell tumor
Authors: Yin Ophelia , Zahir Hamim , French Jonathan , Polhamus Daniel , Wang Xiaoning , van de Sande Michiel , Tap William D. , Gelderblom Hans , Wagner Andrew J. , Healey John H. , Greenberg Jonathan , Shuster Dale , Stacchiotti Silvia
Published: September 2021

This analysis was conducted to assess exposure–response relationships for efficacy and safety of pexidartinib in patients with tenosynovial giant cell tumor. Efficacy was assessed categorically by overall response rate (ORR) with Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors version 1.1 and longitudinally (changes in tumor size and volume). Safety included hepatic parameters (i.e., alanine aminotransferase [ALT], aspartate aminotransferase [AST], and total bilirubin). Average pexidartinib concentration (Cavg) was identified as the primary exposure parameter correlated with response. In categorical and longitudinal analyses, higher Cavg coincided with greater ORR and tumor size reduction, respectively, with smaller joint size having a greater impact. For safety, a significant relationship was observed between Cavg and incidence of ALT‐related and AST‐related adverse events (AEs). With increased exposure, an increase in efficacy was predicted with near maximum effect at 800 mg/day. Higher initial dose (1000 mg/day) during the first 2 weeks did not improve efficacy. Higher doses were associated with an increased risk of ALT‐related and AST‐related AEs. These results support the US Food and Drug Administration–approved dose (400 mg two times/day without initial loading dose).
The Impact of Contact Position on the Retention Performance in Thin‐Film Ferroelectric Transistors
Authors: Chen Qiusong , Lin Dong , Wang Qinhao , Yang Jiang , Sanchez Juan E. , Zhu Guodong
Published: September 2021

Here, the simulation of the physical fields in an n‐type ferroelectric thin‐film transistor (FeTFT) with a bottom contact bottom‐gate configuration is demonstrated. In the off‐state, the intensity of the lateral electric field in the space charge region near the edge of the drain electrode is several times higher than the coercive field of the ferroelectric film, pinning the direction of polarization near the drain electrode along the channel. While the FeTFT switches from off‐state to on‐state, the vertical component of polarization near the drain edge is stronger than other parts near the channel. This enhances the depolarization field in this area so that the retention performance of the on‐state is worse than the off‐state. These results and methods benefit FeTFTs and are also valuable for floating‐gate memory and light‐emitting field‐effect transistors.
Delay of Regeneration by Adding Aluminum in Boron‐Doped Crystalline Si
Authors: Mehler Melanie , Schmid Andreas , Zuschlag Annika , Trempa Matthias , Hahn Giso
Published: September 2021

Here, two B‐doped Cz‐grown Si materials with different Al concentrations are investigated concerning the long‐term behavior of excess charge carrier lifetime under injection at elevated temperature. By determining the defect density and the surface saturation current density, a delay in regeneration and a delay in the onset of surface‐related degradation is found in the material containing an order of magnitude more Al. Investigations under constant excess carrier concentration reveal that the effect of the delay is still significant, but less pronounced compared with constant generation conditions, so the effect causing the delay seems to be injection dependent. The findings can be explained by the higher activation energy for the splitting of Al−H pairs compared with splitting of B−H pairs, which might cause a delayed release in H from the dopant H configuration. Assuming that regeneration depends on this released H, the delay in regeneration can be explained by this model.
Evaluation of the effect of Lepidium meyenii Walpers in infertile patients: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Melnikovova Ingrid , Russo Daniela , Fait Tomas , Kolarova Michaela , Tauchen Jan , Kushniruk Nataliya , Falabella Roberto , Milella Luigi , Fernández Cusimamani Eloy
Published: September 2021

Male infertility refers to the inability to conceive a natural pregnancy in a fertile female, and approximately 15% of reproductive‐aged couples worldwide face this problem. Several plants were used to treat fertility disorders and, among them, Lepidium meyenii, a folk medicament of Andean regions, is still used to enhance vitality and treat sterility in humans and domestic animals. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of L. meyenii Walpers on infertile patients by a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial. Fifty patients suffering from various reproductive‐related problems were enrolled for 16 weeks to evaluate the effect of yellow maca on semen quality and serum hormone levels. Treatment with maca improved the percentage of sperm concentration by 40%, whereas the placebo improved by 76% after 8 and 16 weeks of treatment, but the results were statistically non‐significant. No statistically significant change in hormone levels was reported by using maca, except a decrease in the level of free testosterone. Results are not sufficient to assess the efficacy of maca on male fertility. Further investigation and trials are required to obtain conclusive results.
A safe and effective anastomotic technique for robot‐assisted minimally invasive oesophagectomy: Reverse‐puncture anastomosis
Authors: Peng Hao , Liu Yi Yang , Aimudula Maimaitijiang , Wang Rong Chun , Chen Hao , Liu Xiaolong , Song Haizhu , Yi Jun
Published: September 2021

Background

Oesophagogastric anastomosis is mainly complicated by its tediousness. We hope to modify an oesophagogastric anastomotic technique that simplifies anastomosis.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of 57 cases executed using reverse‐puncture anastomotic (RPA) technique and 64 cases of manual purse anastomosis (MPA) technique for robot‐assisted minimally invasive oesophagectomy (RAMIE). Baseline characteristics and perioperative outcomes were analysed.

Results

There were no significant differences between the 2 groups with regards to demographic data and clinical features. All patients had R0 resection. Relative to MPA, RPA group experienced significantly shorter operation times (232.5 ± 33.84 min vs. 262.3 ± 83.94 min, p = 0.038).RPA group patients had shorter anastomotic times relative to MPA group patients (10.5 ± 3.4 min vs. 18.3 ± 4.1 min, p = 0.014). No adverse events were observed.

Conclusions

Reverse‐puncture anastomosis is safe, feasible in RAMIE. This approach has the potential to efficiently shorten the anastomotic time and ensure safe operation.
Performing kayepa dordok living waters in Noongar boodjar, South‐Western Australia
Authors: Bracknell Clint , Horwitz Pierre , Ryan Trevor , Marshall Jonathan W.
Published: September 2021

Performance through language, song and dance provides alternative knowledges and ways of understanding, in this case, developing deeper relationships with living water. Drawing on Indigenous Noongar culture from south‐western Australia, this paper addresses the question: How can relationships between living underground, estuarine and riverine water bodies (kayepa dordok) be performed? Two new interlinked Noongar works in response to local riverscapes were developed for, and performed as part of, the 2021 Perth Festival. The first was to embody the return journey of the bullshark, from the salt water to the riverine fresh water; the second was to enact the presence of the unseen groundwater – which emerges as wetlands and estuaries strewn throughout the landscape – on its return to the sea. The method used to derive the song and dance, and the impact of the performance itself, are described. The experiment makes a case for multiple benefits associated with re‐establishing connections among culture and nature by drawing on Indigenous perspectives, through performance giving voice to a relationality between river systems and people.
Progress in Solid Polymer Electrolytes for Lithium‐Ion Batteries and Beyond
Authors: An Yong , Han Xue , Liu Yuyang , Azhar Alowasheeir , Na Jongbeom , Nanjundan Ashok Kumar , Wang Shengping , Yu Jingxian , Yamauchi Yusuke
Published: September 2021

Solid‐state polymer electrolytes (SPEs) for high electrochemical performance lithium‐ion batteries have received considerable attention due to their unique characteristics; they are not prone to leakage, and they exhibit low flammability, excellent processability, good flexibility, high safety levels, and superior thermal stability. However, current SPEs are far from commercialization, mainly due to the low ionic conductivity, low Li+ transference number (tLi+), poor electrode/electrolyte interface contact, narrow electrochemical oxidation window, and poor long‐term stability of Li metal. Recent work on improving electrochemical performance and these aspects of SPEs are summarized systematically here with a particular focus on the underlying mechanisms, and the improvement strategies are also proposed. This review could lead to a deeper consideration of the issues and solutions affecting the application of SPEs and pave a new pathway to safe, high‐performance lithium‐ion batteries.
Using soft systems methodology to align community projects with sustainability development in higher education stakeholders' networks in a Brazilian university
Authors: Paucar‐Caceres Alberto , Cavalcanti‐Bandos Melissa Franchini , Quispe‐Prieto Silvia Cristina , Huerta‐Tantalean Lucero Nicole , Werner‐Masters Katarzyna
Published: September 2021

The purpose of this paper is to report on the use of the soft systems methodology (SSM) to enhance the role of the higher education institution (HEI) stakeholder's action networks in achieving the sustainable development goals (SDGs). We review the literature on sustainable development in HEIs, in particular the role of stakeholder networks for the implementation of SDGs in HEI. We outline some of the features of SSM as an approach to help make sense of this complexity. CATWOE analysis, a conceptual SSM tool, is applied to a stakeholder's network hosted by a Brazilian university with the purpose of achieving the SDGs as part of the community projects (HEI external engagement). Findings of the systemic application suggest that the use of some elements of SSM helps clarify and make sense of the role of the stakeholders and assists in formalising action networks to achieve SDGs.
Tailoring Breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis) Starch: Cross‐Linking Starch from This Non‐Conventional Source towards Improved Technologically Relevant Properties and Enabled Food Applications
Authors: Amorim Thaís Souza , Andrade Ivo Henrique Pinto , Otoni Caio Gomide , Camilloto Geany Peruch , Cruz Renato Souza
Published: September 2021

This contribution adds to the research on starch isolation from non‐conventional sources using green protocols, on which starch nanoparticles from breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis (Parkinson) Fosber), a traditionally underexploited, though starch‐rich species have previously reported. Here, it is demonstrated how cross‐linking can be used to overcome several technical limitations of native breadfruit starch that may hamper its use in food. Specifically, breadfruit starch is cross‐linked using a combination of sodium tripolyphosphate and sodium trimetaphosphate, which decreases the apparent amylose content while increases those of phosphorus and ash. Upon cross‐linking, starch density and oil uptake remain unchanged, water uptake is increased, and paste clarity is decreased by ca. 75%. Cross‐linking rendered breadfruit starch less prompt to retrogradation after five freeze‐thaw cycles. Native breadfruit starch swells less at 70 °C (2.68 g/g) than its cross‐linked counterpart (5.5 g/g), but the opposite behavior is observed at 90 °C (9.83 and 4.2 g/g, respectively). The greater resistance against syneresis and the lower swelling at higher temperatures drive cross‐linked breadfruit starch towards food products and processes that involve thermal treatment. Noteworthy, these benefits are achieved at a low degree of cross‐linking, which maintains phosphorus contents within the permitted levels.
Non‐cardiogenic pulmonary oedema and multisystemic haemorrhage secondary to an accidental intravenous injection of melarsomine in a dog
Authors: Wolf Johanna , Law Jerry M. , Lynch Alex
Published: September 2021

An 8‐month‐old female entire Labradoodle was referred for further management of severe non‐cardiogenic pulmonary oedema after an accidental intravenous injection of the arsenical compound melarsomine. On arrival, the dog was non‐ambulatory, obtunded and in severe respiratory distress. Due to profound hypoxaemia despite oxygen supplementation, the dog was intubated and mechanically ventilated. While anaesthetised, the dog experienced three episodes of cardiac arrest with return of spontaneous circulation after cardiopulmonary resuscitation. However, due to continued severe hypoxaemia and haemodynamic instability, euthanasia was elected by the owners. On necropsy, marked pulmonary oedema and haemorrhage into multiple organs, including the endocardium and brain, were identified. Although no other reports describe the consequences of intravenous melarsomine in dogs, the postmortem findings are very similar to intravenous arsenic toxicity in humans. Furthermore, this case report highlights the importance of accurate drug labelling.
EduCOR: An Educational and Career-Oriented Recommendation Ontology
Authors: Ilkou Eleni , Abu-Rasheed Hasan , Tavakoli Mohammadreza , Hakimov Sherzod , Kismihók Gábor , Auer Sören , Nejdl Wolfgang
Published: September 2021

With the increased dependence on online learning platforms and educational resource repositories, a unified representation of digital learning resources becomes essential to support a dynamic and multi-source learning experience. We introduce the EduCOR ontology, an educational, career-oriented ontology that provides a foundation for representing online learning resources for personalised learning systems. The ontology is designed to enable learning material repositories to offer learning path recommendations, which correspond to the user’s learning goals and preferences, academic and psychological parameters, and labour-market skills. We present the multiple patterns that compose the EduCOR ontology, highlighting its cross-domain applicability and integrability with other ontologies. A demonstration of the proposed ontology on the real-life learning platform eDoer is discussed as a use case. We evaluate the EduCOR ontology using both gold standard and task-based approaches. The comparison of EduCOR to three gold schemata, and its application in two use-cases, shows its coverage and adaptability to multiple OER repositories, which allows generating user-centric and labour-market oriented recommendations.

Resource: https://tibonto.github.io/educor/.
Civil Society and Latent Mobilisation Under Authoritarian Neoliberal Governance
Authors: Yabancı Bilge
Published: September 2021

This chapter reflects on the impact of Turkey’s authoritarian neoliberal governance on the transformation of civil society with a particular focus on latent counter-mobilisation. The first section focuses on howAdalet ve Kalkınma Partisi(Justice and Development Party, AKP) has transformed civic space through a selective approach that switches between repression and facilitation. The AKP represses autonomous and dissident organisations and activists through judicial harassment and new regulations while facilitating the growth of a government-oriented civil society sector (GONGOs). The GONGOs fulfil two aims: softening the immediate effects of the state’s withdrawal from social provision and generating bottom-up consent for authoritarian neoliberal governance. The second section analyses resistance against the AKP’s authoritarian neoliberalism by focusing on the case of a unique social movement,Müslüman Sol hareket(Muslim Left movement), which fuses class politics with Islamic social justice. Based on insights from original fieldwork and interviews with activists conducted in 2018–2019 in Turkey, the discussion demonstrates that the syncretic amalgamation of socialism with Islamic justice has emerged at the unexpected intersections of ideologies and everyday experiences and challenges simultaneously the AKP’s neoliberal exploitation, instrumentalisation and politicisation of religion, and authoritarian governance.
Automated EW corrections with isolated photons: t$$ \overline{t} $$γ, t$$ \overline{t} $$γγ and tγj as case studies
Authors: Pagani Davide , Shao Hua-Sheng , Tsinikos Ioannis , Zaro Marco
Published: September 2021

Abstract

In this work we compute for the first time the so-called Complete-NLO predictions for top-quark pair hadroproduction in association with at least one isolated photon (t$$ \overline{t} $$

t
¯

γ). We also compute NLO QCD+EW predictions for the similar case with at least two isolated photons (t$$ \overline{t} $$

t
¯

γγ) and for single-top hadroproduction in association with at least one isolated photon. In addition, we complement our results with NLO QCD+EW predictions of the hadronic and leptonic decays of top-quark including an isolated photon. All these results have been obtained in a completely automated approach, by extending the capabilities of the MadGraph5_aMC@NLO framework and enabling the Complete-NLO predictions for processes with isolated photons in the final state. We discuss the technical details of the implementation, which involves a mixed EW renormalisation scheme for such processes.
Resonance refraction and neutrino oscillations
Authors: Smirnov Alexei Y. , Valera Victor B.
Published: September 2021

Abstract

The refraction index and matter potential depend on neutrino energy and this dependence has a resonance character associated to the production of the mediator in the s−channel. For light mediators and light particles of medium (background) the resonance can be realized at energies accessible to laboratory experiments. We study properties of the energy dependence of the potential for different C-asymmetries of background. Interplay of the background potential and the vacuum term leads to (i) bump in the oscillation probability in the resonance region, (ii) dip related to the MSW resonance in the background, (iii) substantial deviation of the effective ∆m2 above the resonance from the low energy value, etc. We considered generation of mixing in the background. Interactions with background shifts the energy of usual MSW resonance and produces new MSW resonances. Searches of the background effects allow us to put bounds on new interactions of neutrinos and properties of the background. We show that explanation of the MiniBooNE excess, as the bump due to resonance refraction, is excluded.
Presymplectic AKSZ formulation of Einstein gravity
Authors: Grigoriev Maxim , Kotov Alexei
Published: September 2021

Abstract

Any local gauge theory can be represented as an AKSZ sigma model (upon parameterization if necessary). However, for non-topological models in dimension higher than 1 the target space is necessarily infinite-dimensional. The interesting alternative known for some time is to allow for degenerate presymplectic structure in the target space. This leads to a very concise AKSZ-like representation for frame-like Lagrangians of gauge systems. In this work we concentrate on Einstein gravity and show that not only the Lagrangian but also the full-scale Batalin-Vilkovisky (BV) formulation is naturally encoded in the presymplectic AKSZ formulation, giving an elegant supergeometrical construction of BV for Cartan-Weyl action. The same applies to the main structures of the respective Hamiltonian BFV formulation.
The two-sphere partition function in two-dimensional quantum gravity at fixed area
Authors: Mühlmann Beatrix
Published: September 2021

Abstract

We discuss two-dimensional quantum gravity coupled to conformal matter and fixed area in a semiclassical large and negative matter central charge limit. In this setup the gravity theory — otherwise highly fluctuating — admits a round two-sphere saddle. We discuss the two-sphere partition function up to two-loop order from the path integral perspective. This amounts to studying Feynman diagrams incorporating the fixed area constraint on the round two-sphere. In particular we find that all ultraviolet divergences cancel to this order. We compare our results with the two-sphere partition function obtained from the DOZZ formula.
Primary admission and secondary transfer of trauma patients to Dutch level I and level II trauma centers: predictors and outcomes
Authors: van den Driessche Claire R. L. , Sewalt Charlie A. , van Ditshuizen Jan C. , Stocker Lisa , Verhofstad Michiel H. J. , Van Lieshout Esther M. M. , Hartog Dennis Den ,   Dutch Trauma Registry Southwest, van Buijtenen J. M. , den Hoed P. T. , Jakma T. S. C. , de Klerk G. , Roukema G. R.
Published: September 2021

Purpose

The importance and impact of determining which trauma patients need to be transferred between hospitals, especially considering prehospital triage systems, is evident. The objective of this study was to investigate the association between mortality and primary admission and secondary transfer of patients to level I and II trauma centers, and to identify predictors of primary and secondary admission to a designated level I trauma center.

Methods

Data from the Dutch Trauma Registry South West (DTR SW) was obtained. Patients ≥ 18 years who were admitted to a level I or level II trauma center were included. Patients with isolated burn injuries were excluded. In-hospital mortality was compared between patients that were primarily admitted to a level I trauma center, patients that were transferred to a level I trauma center, and patients that were primarily admitted to level II trauma centers. Logistic regression models were used to adjust for potential confounders. A subgroup analysis was done including major trauma (MT) patients (ISS > 15). Predictors determining whether patients were primarily admitted to level I or level II trauma centers or transferred to a level I trauma center were identified using logistic regression models.

Results

A total of 17,035 patients were included. Patients admitted primarily to a level I center, did not differ significantly in mortality from patients admitted primarily to level II trauma centers (Odds Ratio (OR): 0.73; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.51–1.06) and patients transferred to level I centers (OR: 0.99; 95%CI 0.57–1.71). Subgroup analyses confirmed these findings for MT patients. Adjusted logistic regression analyses showed that age (OR: 0.96; 95%CI 0.94–0.97), GCS (OR: 0.81; 95%CI 0.77–0.86), AIS head (OR: 2.30; 95%CI 2.07–2.55), AIS neck (OR: 1.74; 95%CI 1.27–2.45) and AIS spine (OR: 3.22; 95%CI 2.87–3.61) are associated with increased odds of transfers to a level I trauma center.

Conclusions

This retrospective study showed no differences in in-hospital mortality between general trauma patients admitted primarily and secondarily to level I trauma centers. The most prominent predictors regarding transfer of trauma patients were age and neurotrauma. These findings could have practical implications regarding the triage protocols currently used.
Osteoporotic mid-thoracic vertebral body fractures: what are the differences compared to fractures of the lumbar spine?—a systematic review
Authors: Spiegl Ulrich Josef , Scheyerer Max Joseph , Osterhoff Georg , Grüninger Sebastian , Schnake Klaus John
Published: September 2021

Purpose

The aim of this systematically review is to detect differences between fractures located at the mid-thoracic spine compared to fractures of the thoracolumbar junction (TLJ) and the lumbar spine in osteoporotic vertebral body fractures.

Methods

This review is based on articles retrieved by a systematic search in the PubMed and Web of Science database for publications regarding osteoporotic fractures of the thoracolumbar spine with respect to the fracture location. Differences in prevalence, cause of fracture, fracture healing, and outcomes between the mid-thoracic spine and the TLJ and the lumbar spine were considered.

Results

Altogether, 238 articles could be retrieved from the literature search. A total of 222 articles were excluded. Thus, 16 remaining original articles were included in this systematic review comprising the topics prevalence, bone mineral density and regional blood flow, biomechanics, subsequent fractures, and outcome, respectively. The overall level of evidence of the vast majority of studies was moderate to low.

Conclusion

Several differences between osteoporotic fractures of the mid-thoracic spine compared to the TLJ and the lumbar spine could be identified. Thereby, osteoporotic mid-thoracic fractures seem to be particularly more related to frailty without a history of traumatic injury compared to osteoporotic fractures of the TLJ and the lumbar spine. Additionally, the presence of severe mid-thoracic fractures predicts subsequent fractures of the hip. In contrast, subsequent fractures of the spine are less likely.
Path combinatorics and light leaves for quiver Hecke algebras
Authors: Bowman Chris , Cox Anton , Hazi Amit , Michailidis Dimitris
Published: September 2021

We recast the classical notion of “standard tableaux" in an alcove-geometric setting and extend these classical ideas to all “reduced paths" in our geometry. This broader path-perspective is essential for implementing the higher categorical ideas of Elias–Williamson in the setting of quiver Hecke algebras. Our first main result is the construction of light leaves bases of quiver Hecke algebras. These bases are richer and encode more structural information than their classical counterparts, even in the case of the symmetric groups. Our second main result provides path-theoretic generators for the “Bott–Samelson truncation" of the quiver Hecke algebra.
Subterranean Microbiome Affiliations of Plantain (Musa spp.) Under Diverse Agroecologies of Western and Central Africa
Authors: Kaushal Manoj , Kolombia Yao , Alakonya Amos Emitati , Kuate Apollin Fotso , Ortega-Beltran Alejandro , Amah Delphine , Masso Cargele
Published: September 2021

Plantain (Musa spp.) is a staple food crop and an important source of income for millions of smallholder farmers in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). However, there is a paucity of knowledge on soil microbial diversity in agroecologies where plantains are grown. Microbial diversity that increases plant performance with multi-trophic interactions involving resiliency to environmental constraints is greatly needed. For this purpose, the bacterial and fungal communities of plantain fields in high rainfall forests (HR) and derived savannas (SV) were studied using Illumina MiSeq for 16S rDNA and ITS amplicon deep sequencing. Microbial richness (α- and β-diversity), operational taxonomic units, and Simpson and Shannon–Wiener indexes (observed species (Sobs), Chao, ACE; P < 0.05) suggested that there were significant differences between HR and SV agroecologies among the most abundant bacterial communities, and some specific dynamic response observed from fungal communities. Proteobacteria formed the predominant bacterial phylum (43.7%) succeeded by Firmicutes (24.7%), and Bacteroidetes (17.6%). Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, and Zygomycota were the three most dominant fungal phyla in both agroecologies. The results also revealed an immense array of beneficial microbes in the roots and rhizosphere of plantain, including Acinetobacter, Bacillus, and Pseudomonas spp. COG and KEGG Orthology database depicted significant variations in the functional attributes of microbes found in the rhizosphere to roots. This result indicates that the different agroecologies and host habitats differentially support the dynamic microbial profile and that helps in altering the structure in the rhizosphere zone for the sake of promoting synergistic host-microbe interactions particularly under resource-poor conditions of SSA.
Preventive treatment options for fear of falling within the Swiss healthcare system
Authors: Lenouvel Eric , Novak Lan , Biedermann Andreas , Kressig Reto W. , Klöppel Stefan
Published: September 2021

Fear of falling (FoF) results in social, functional, physical, and psychological symptoms, including secondary disorders, such as depression and general anxiety disorder (GAD). A vicious cycle develops, where symptoms maintain and reinforce FoF and its consequences, including increasing the risk of falling. In this position paper, we suggest screening for FoF using the falls efficacy scale international (FES-I) questionnaire. The presence of a high score (> 23) warrants an investigation into frailty and exclusion of depression and GAD, during the clinical interview. Stratifying frailty, based on the Fried frailty criteria will guide treatment options based on the most significant health concerns. Frail older adults should first receive physiotherapy and exercise interventions, as physical disabilities are their most significant characteristic, while pre-frail and non-frail older adults should receive multicomponent interventions, consisting of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with physical exercise. The non-frail with predominantly GAD and depression should receive specialized CBT interventions. Currently, only exercise interventions are available for FoF treatment in Switzerland. Although some exercise interventions use CBT elements, such as goal setting and reflections on behavior and feelings, they are not systematically used, are not part of a quality-assured procedure, and do not address the psychological-cognitive aspects of FoF. As the pre-frail and non-frail are the largest groups to use these services, adapting current exercise programs by incorporating a CBT component would be the most practical means to provide optimized care.
The effect of elevated muscle pain on neuromuscular fatigue during exercise
Authors: Norbury Ryan , Smith Samuel A. , Burnley Mark , Judge Megan , Mauger Alexis R.
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Muscle pain can impair exercise performance but the mechanisms for this are unknown. This study examined the effects of muscle pain on neuromuscular fatigue during an endurance task.

Methods

On separate visits, twelve participants completed an isometric time-to-task failure (TTF) exercise of the right knee extensors at ~ 20% of maximum force following an intramuscular injection of isotonic saline (CTRL) or hypertonic saline (HYP) into the vastus lateralis. Measures of neuromuscular fatigue were taken before, during and after the TTF using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and peripheral nerve stimulation.

Results

The mean pain intensity was 57 ± 10 in HYP compared to 38 ± 18 in CTRL (P < 0.001). TTF was reduced in HYP (4.36 ± 0.88 min) compared to CTRL (5.20 ± 0.39 min) (P = 0.003). Maximum voluntary force was 12% lower at minute 1 (P = 0.003) and 11% lower at minute 2 in HYP (P = 0.013) compared to CTRL. Voluntary activation was 4% lower at minute 1 in HYP compared to CTRL (P = 0.006) but not at any other time point (all P > 0.05). The TMS silent period was 9% longer at 100 s during the TTF in HYP compared to CTRL (P = 0.026).

Conclusion

Muscle pain reduces exercise performance through the excacerbation of neuromuscular fatigue that is central in origin. This appears to be from inhibitory feedback from group III/IV nociceptors which acts to reduce central motor output.
The Need of a Systemic Approach in Climate Change Education: the Example of the EIT Climate-KIC Journey Summer School
Authors: Passarella Marinella
Published: September 2021

Climate change is a “super wicked” problem. Policy regulation and research suggest that a systemic approach is needed and that education is a key element of the necessary multi-disciplinary, transformative, and holistic solutions. Higher education institutions can play a crucial role in facilitating mitigation and adaptation by enabling and empowering young generations to act. This article presents the work of Montanuniversität Leoben Resources Innovation Center (MUL RIC) in climate education actions, within the framework of EIT Climate-KIC. It gives insights from the largest summer school regarding climate system innovation in the EU—“The Journey”, which has been co-organized by MUL RIC since 2018. In this contribution, The Journey is shown as an example of a systemic approach applied to higher education as a driver of climate solutions. It also discusses how it relates to EU policy and to recommendations of higher education for climate change.
Nachhaltige Entwicklungsziele – Der Beitrag der Montanuniversität zur Erstellung eines Optionenpapiers für die österreichische Bundesregierung
Authors: Trummer Patrick
Published: September 2021

Der Beschluss der Vereinten Nationen im Jahr 2015 zu Agenda 2030 für Nachhaltige Entwicklung hat zur Gründung des Projekts UniNEtZ in Österreich geführt. Ziel ist die Erarbeitung von Optionen zur Erreichung der Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Somit haben sich österreichische Universitäten und Forschungseinrichtungen aus den verschiedensten Disziplinen zusammengetan, um mit ihrem gemeinsamen Wissen und Erfahrungen Optionen gemeinsam zu entwickeln. Die Montanuniversität Leoben mit der Expertise im Bereich Rohstoffe, Werkstoffe und deren Verarbeitung ist dadurch ein wichtiger Partner. Das Resources Innovation Center Leoben als Teil der Montanuniversität ist federführenden bei SDG 7 und SDG 12. Die Thematik der Ressourcen speziell der mineralischen Rohstoffe adressiert das Subziel 12.2 und ist ebenso ein wesentlicher Bestandteil einer Kreislaufwirtschaft, da Rohstoffe eine essentielle Rolle in einer industrialisierten Welt spielen. Eine effiziente und effektive Nutzung von Ressourcen stellt eine Schüsselfunktion für eine Nachhaltige Entwicklung dar. Daraus entstand im SDG 12 eine Option zum Thema Rohstoffe, die sich speziell am Beginn der Kreislaufwirtschaft platziert. Ziele sind die nachhaltige Gestaltung von Produktionsprozessen, die ganzheitliche Verwendung von Rohstoffen sowie ein nachhaltiges und intelligentes Rohstoffmanagement zu forcieren.
Survival rate and peri-implant evaluation of immediately loaded dental implants in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Andrade Carlos Alexandre Soares , Paz João Lucas Carvalho , de Melo Gabriel Simino , Mahrouseh Nour , Januário Alessandro Lourenço , Capeletti Lucas Raineri
Published: September 2021

Objectives

To evaluate the survival rate, success rate, and peri-implant biological changes of immediately loaded dental implants (ILs) placed in type 2 diabetic patients (DM2).

Materials and methods

The present study was registered on PROSPERO and followed the PRISMA checklist. The search was performed by the first reviewer in January 2021. The electronic databases used were MEDLINE via PubMed, Cochrane, BVS, Web of Science, Scopus, LIVIVO, and gray literature. The risk of bias analysis was performed using an instrument from the Joanna Briggs Institute.

Results

A total of 3566 titles and abstracts were obtained. The qualitative synthesis included 7 studies, while the quantitative synthesis included 5 studies. The meta-analysis of IL in individuals with DM2 compared to nondiabetic individuals showed no significant difference among the groups regarding the survival rate of dental implants (RR = 1.00, 95% CI 0.96–1.04; p = 0.91; I2 = 0%), even if the patient had poor glycemic control (RR = 1.08, 95% CI 0.87–1.33; p = 0.48; I2 = 70%). Meta-analysis of marginal bone loss in IL compared to conventional loading in DM2 patients also showed no significant difference (mean difference =  − 0.08, 95% CI − 0.25–0.08; p = 0.33; I2 = 83%).

Conclusions

Type 2 diabetes mellitus does not seem to be a risk factor for immediately loaded implants if the glycemic level is controlled, the oral hygiene is satisfactory, and the technical steps are strictly followed.

Clinical relevance

Rehabilitation in diabetic individuals is more common due to the highest prevalence of edentulism in this population. It is essential to establish appropriate protocols for loading dental implants.
Clamped-end effect on static detection signals of DNA-microcantilever
Authors: Wu Junzheng , Zhang Nenghui
Published: September 2021

Boundary constraint induced inhomogeneous effects are important for mechanical responses of nano/micro-devices. For microcantilever sensors, the clamped-end constraint induced inhomogeneous effect of static deformation, so called the clamped-end effect, has great influence on the detection signals. This paper is devoted to developing an alternative mechanical model to characterize the clamped-end effect on the static detection signals of the DNA-microcantilever. Different from the previous concentrated load models, the DNA adsorption is taken as an equivalent uniformly distributed tangential load on the substrate upper surface, which exactly satisfies the zero force boundary condition at the free-end. Thereout, a variable coefficient differential governing equation describing the non-uniform deformation of the DNA-microcantilever induced by the clamped-end constraint is established by using the principle of minimum potential energy. By reducing the order of the governing equation, the analytical solutions of the curvature distribution and static bending deflection are obtained. By comparing with the previous approximate surface stress models, the clamped-end effect on the static deflection signals is discussed, and the importance of the neutral axis shift effect is also illustrated for the asymmetric laminated microcantilever.
Sleep medication use and risk of fractures in breast cancer survivors
Authors: Haque Reina , Chlebowski Rowan T. , Chen LieHong
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Sleep problems are more common in breast cancer survivors than those without a cancer history. Our goal was to examine the risk of fractures among breast cancers survivors who used prescription sleep aids.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 21,346 adult women diagnosed with stage 0–III breast cancer between 2009 and 2016 and followed them through 2017. We examined person-year rates of fractures by sleep medication use and calculated adjusted hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) with Cox proportional hazards models using time-dependent variables for sleep medications and covariate medications (antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and bisphosphonates) adjusted for demographics, comorbidities, and tumor characteristics and cancer treatments.

Results

The sleep medication use was common (40%) in breast cancer survivors and was associated with a 33% increased risk of fractures (adjusted HR = 1.33, 95% CI: 1.20–1.49). Further, in a sensitivity analysis based on new use of sleep medication, the fracture risk was even stronger (adjusted HR = 1.44, 95% CI: 1.26–1.64).

Conclusion

Given the high use of sleep medications and the high risk of fractures in breast cancer survivors, this study suggests that non-pharmacologic management of sleep problems might be considered as alternative therapy.
Explicating Exact versus Conceptual Replication
Authors: Hudson Robert
Published: September 2021

What does it mean to replicate an experiment? A distinction is often drawn between ‘exact’ (or ‘direct’) and ‘conceptual’ replication. However, in recent work, Uljana Feest argues that the notion of replication in itself, whether exact or conceptual, is flawed due to the problem of systematic error, and Edouard Machery argues that, although the notion of replication is not flawed, we should nevertheless dispense with the distinction between exact and conceptual replication. My plan in this paper is to defend the value of replication, along with the distinction between exact and conceptual replication, from the critiques of Feest and Machery. To that end, I provide an explication of conceptual replication, and distinguish it from what I call ‘experimental’ replication. On the basis, then, of a tripartite distinction between exact, experimental and conceptual replication, I argue in response to Feest that replication is still informative despite the prospect of systematic error. I also rebut Machery’s claim that conceptual replication is fundamentally confused and wrongly conflates replication and extension, and in turn raise some objections to his own Resampling Account of replication.
Assessing Psychosocial Distress in Cystic Fibrosis: Validation of the ‘Distress in Cystic Fibrosis Scale’
Authors: Finlay Caroline , Patel Sejal , Evans Jonathan
Published: September 2021

Experiences of anxiety and depression are common in adults with Cystic Fibrosis (AwCF) (e.g. Quittner in Thorax 69:1090-1097, 2014) and may impact on a wide range of important health-related behaviours, such as adherence to medication and timely attendance for medical review when experiencing pulmonary exacerbation. Common screening measures used in CF such as the PHQ-9 and GAD-7 may reflect an absence of anxiety or depression when clinically significant emotional difficulties are apparent on further assessment. This study preliminarily validated the previously developed Distress in Cystic Fibrosis Scale (DCFS) (Patel in Journal of Cystic Fibrosis 15:S26, 2016); a 23-item questionnaire to assess psychosocial distress in AwCF. Inpatient and outpatient participants with CF (N = 119) completed a battery of questionnaires, including the DCFS. PCA results supported a single component model. The DCFS showed high internal consistency and correlated significantly with measures of mood and quality of life. The DCFS shows promise as a screening tool to assess clinically significant psychosocial distress in an adult CF population.
Parenting Skills, Family Functioning and Social Support in Situations of Child-to-Parent Violence: a Scoping Review of the Literature
Authors: Arias-Rivera Shirley , Lorence Bárbara , Hidalgo Victoria
Published: September 2021

The aim of this study was to carry out a scoping review to analyze the available evidence regarding parenting skills, family functioning and social support in situations of CPV. When violent behavior occurs, roles, communication and emotional expression are affected, impacting both parenting skills and family functioning. The confluence of these variables could explain the perpetuation of violent behavior over time. The scoping review encompassed peer-reviewed articles published in English and Spanish from 2000 to 2019, located through searches carried out in relevant international databases (Web of Science, PsycINFO, Scopus, ERIC, Dialnet Plus). 22 relevant studies were identified. The collected data showed that, in situations of CPV, parents have low levels of perceived self-efficacy and difficulties regulating their emotions, and they display submissive behavior in parent–child interactions. The analyzed articles also described the presence of a negative family climate and a tendency to relativize violent acts perpetrated by children. Lastly, the evidence shows that social relations are altered by mistrust of formal support resources and a certain level of social isolation. The discussion of the obtained results highlights the need for interventions aimed at fostering parenting skills and improving formal support resources to enhance family functioning in situations of CPV.
Error Constants for the Semi-Discrete Galerkin Approximation of the Linear Heat Equation
Authors: Mizuguchi Makoto , Nakao Mitsuhiro T. , Sekine Kouta , Oishi Shin’ichi
Published: September 2021

In this paper, we propose $$L^2(J;H^1_0(\Omega ))$$

L
2

(
J
;

H
0
1

(
Ω
)

)

and $$L^2(J;L^2(\Omega ))$$

L
2

(
J
;

L
2

(
Ω
)

)

norm error estimates that provide the explicit values of the error constants for the semi-discrete Galerkin approximation of the linear heat equation. The derivation of these error estimates shows the convergence of the approximation to the weak solution of the linear heat equation. Furthermore, explicit values of the error constants for these estimates play an important role in the computer-assisted existential proofs of solutions to semi-linear parabolic partial differential equations. In particular, the constants provided in this paper are better than the existing constants and, in a sense, the best possible.
Non-technical losses detection in energy consumption focusing on energy recovery and explainability
Authors: Coma-Puig Bernat , Carmona Josep
Published: September 2021

Non-technical losses (NTL) is a problem that many utility companies try to solve, often using black-box supervised classification algorithms. In general, this approach achieves good results. However, in practice, NTL detection faces technical, economic, and transparency challenges that cannot be easily solved and which compromise the quality and fairness of the predictions. In this work, we contextualise these problems in an NTL detection system built for an international utility company. We explain how we have mitigated them by moving from classification into a regression system and introducing explanatory techniques to improve its accuracy and understanding. As we show in this work, the regression approach can be a good option to mitigate these technical problems, and can be adjusted in order to capture the most striking NTL cases. Moreover, explainable AI (through Shapley Values) allows us to both validate the correctness of the regression approach in this context beyond benchmarking, and improve the transparency of our system drastically.
Future Directions for Clinical Respiratory Fungal Research
Authors: Armstrong-James Darius
Published: September 2021

There has been a growing appreciation of the importance of respiratory fungal diseases in recent years, with better understanding of their prevalence as well as their global distribution. In step with the greater awareness of these complex infections, we are currently poised to make major advances in the characterization and treatment of these fungal diseases, which in itself is largely a consequence of post-genomic technologies which have enabled rational drug development and a path towards personalized medicines. These advances are set against a backdrop of globalization and anthropogenic change, which have impacted the world-wide distribution of fungi and antifungal resistance, as well as our built environment. The current revolution in immunomodulatory therapies has led to a rapidly evolving population at-risk for respiratory fungal disease. Whilst challenges are considerable, perhaps the tools we now have to manage these infections are up to this challenge. There has been a welcome acceleration of the antifungal pipeline in recent years, with a number of new drug classes in clinical or pre-clinical development, as well as new focus on inhaled antifungal drug delivery. The “post-genomic” revolution has opened up metagenomic diagnostic approaches spanning host immunogenetics to the fungal mycobiome that have allowed better characterization of respiratory fungal disease endotypes. When these advances are considered together the key challenge is clear: to develop a personalized medicine framework to enable a rational therapeutic approach.