bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retrograde tibial nailing of far distal tibia fractures: a biomechanical evaluation of double- versus triple-distal interlocking
Authors: Greenfield Julia , Appelmann Philipp , Wunderlich Felix , Mehler Dorothea , Rommens Pol Maria , Kuhn Sebastian
Published: December 2021

Objectives

Retrograde tibial nailing using the Distal Tibia Nail (DTN) is a novel surgical option in the treatment of distal tibial fracture. Its unique retrograde insertion increases the range of surgical options in far distal fractures of the tibia beyond the use of plating. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of the DTN for far distal tibia fractures where only double rather than triple-distal locking is possible due to fracture localisation and morphology.

Methods

Six Sawbones® were instrumented with a DTN and an AO/OTA 43-A3 fracture simulated. Samples were tested in two configurations: first with distal triple locking, second with double locking by removing one distal screw. Samples were subjected to compressive (350 N, 600 N) and torsional (± 8 Nm) loads. Stiffness construct and interfragmentary movement were quantified and compared between double and triple-locking configurations.

Results

The removal of one distal screw resulted in a 60–70% preservation of compressive stiffness, and 90% preservation of torsional stiffness for double locking compared to triple locking. Interfragmentary movement remained minimal for both compressive and torsional loading.

Conclusions

The DTN with a distal double locking can, therefore, be considered for far distal tibia fractures where nailing would be preferred over plating.
Überregionale Public-Health-Akteure in Deutschland – eine Bestandsaufnahme und Kategorisierung
Authors: Hommes Franziska , Mohsenpour Amir , Kropff Dana , Pilgram Lisa , Matusall Svenja , von Philipsborn Peter , Sell Kerstin
Published: December 2021

Hintergrund

Akteure der öffentlichen Gesundheit (Public Health) tragen wesentlich zu Gesundheitsschutz, -förderung und Prävention auf Bevölkerungsebene bei. Kenntnisse über die Akteurslandschaft erleichtern die Zusammenarbeit und erhöhen die Transparenz des Berufsfeldes für Nachwuchsfachkräfte.

Zielsetzung

Ziel dieser Arbeit waren eine Bestandsaufnahme und Kategorisierung überregionaler Public-Health-Akteure in Deutschland.

Methodik

Ausgehend von einer Aufstellung der teilnehmenden Institutionen am Zukunftsforum Public Health und zielgerichteter Onlinerecherche wurden überregionale Organisationen mit Public-Health-Schwerpunkt identifiziert. Alle Akteure wurden durch ≥ 2 Autor:innen unabhängig voneinander gescreent. Rein lokal tätige Akteure und solche ohne erkennbaren Public-Health-Schwerpunkt wurden ausgeschlossen. Mittels Schneeballverfahrens wurden weitere Akteure identifiziert. Zur thematischen Clusterung wurde induktiv ein Kategoriensystem gebildet.

Ergebnisse

Von 645 gescreenten Akteuren wurden 307 (47,6 %) eingeschlossen und 12 Ober- sowie 30 Subkategorien zugeordnet. Die Oberkategorie Fachverbände (n = 60) weist die höchste Akteursanzahl auf, gefolgt von zivilgesellschaftlichen (n = 49) und staatlichen Akteuren (n = 40). Neben einer tabellarischen und grafischen Darstellung wurde eine interaktive Akteursübersicht erstellt (www.noeg.org).

Diskussion

Diese Arbeit bietet eine umfangreiche Übersicht über Akteure der öffentlichen Gesundheit in Deutschland und verdeutlicht die Breite der deutschen Public-Health-Landschaft. Die Ergebnisse bieten neue Möglichkeiten zur Vernetzung und können Nachwuchsfachkräften Berufswege aufzeigen. Ausgehend von dieser Arbeit sind ergänzende Forschungsarbeiten zu Public-Health-Akteuren sinnvoll.
Study on cutting performance of SiCp/Al composite using textured YG8 carbide tool
Authors: Wang Xu , Popov Valentin L. , Yu Zhanjiang , Li Yiquan , Xu Jinkai , Yu Huadong
Published: December 2021

Precision machining of SiCp/Al composites is a challenge due to the existence of reinforcement phase in this material. This work focuses on the study of the textured tools’ cutting performance on SiCp/Al composite, as well as the comparison with non-textured tools. The results show that the micro-pit textured tool can reduce the cutting force by 5–13% and cutting length by 9–39%. Compared with non-textured tools, the cutting stability of the micro-pit textured tools is better. It is found that the surface roughness is the smallest (0.4 μm) when the texture spacing is 100 μm, and the residual stress can be minimized to around 15 MPa in the case of texture spacing 80 μm. In addition, the SiC particles with size of around 2–12 μm in the SiCp/Al composite may play a supporting role between the texture and the chips, which results in three-body friction, thereby reducing tool wear, sticking, and secondary cutting phenomenon. At the same time, some SiC particles enter into the micro-pit texture, so that the number of residual particles on the surface is reduced and the friction between the tool and the surface then decreases, which improves the surface roughness, and reduces the surface residual stress.
Segmentation phase measuring deflectometry for measuring structured specular surfaces
Authors: Xu Yongjia , Wang Yuemin , Gao Feng , Jiang Xiangqian
Published: December 2021

Accurate and fast three-dimensional (3D) measurement for industrial products/components designed to possess 3D structured shapes is a key driver for improved productivity. However, challenges for current techniques are considerable to measure structured specular surfaces. A technique named segmentation phase measuring deflectometry (SPMD) is proposed in this paper, which enables structured specular surfaces to be measured with high accuracy in one setup. Concept of segmentation in topology is introduced into phase measuring deflectometry, which separates a surface with complex structures into continuous segments. Each segment can be reconstructed based on gradient information to achieve good form accuracy, and all reconstructed segments can be fused into a whole 3D strucutred form result based on their absolute spatial positioning data. Here, we propose and discuss the principle of SPMD, a segmentation technique to separate a strucured surface into segments, a spatial positioning technique to obtain absolute position of the segments, and a data fusion strategy to fuse all reconstructed segments. Experimental results show SPMD can achieve nanometer level accuracy for form measurement of continuous segments by comparing with stylus profilometer, which is significantly higher than the accuracy of direct phase measuring deflectometry. Meanwhile, SPMD has micron level spatial positioning accuracy for structures by measuring two specular steps and comparing with coordinate measuring machine, which differentiates this technique from gradient-based phase measuring deflectometry that extends measurement capability from continuous specular surfaces to complex structured specular surfaces. Compared with the existing measurement techniques, SPMD significantly improved the convenience and ability to measure freeform and structured specular surfaces with the advantages of high measurement accuracy, fast measurement, and potential application for embedded measurement.
Drivers of passive leadership in wild songbirds: species-level differences and spatio-temporally dependent intraspecific effects
Authors: Gokcekus Samin , Firth Josh A. , Regan Charlotte , Cole Ella F. , Lamers Koosje P. , Sheldon Ben C.
Published: December 2021

Collective behaviors are typical for many social species and can have fitness benefits for participating individuals. To maximize the benefits obtained from group living, individuals must coordinate their behaviors to some extent. What are the mechanisms that make certain individuals more likely to initiate collective behaviors, for example, by taking a risk to initially access a resource (i.e., to act as “leaders”)? Here, we examine leading behavior in a natural population of great tits and blue tits. We use automated feeding stations to monitor the feeder visits of tagged individuals within mixed-species flocks, with a small cost (waiting < 2 s) associated with the initial unlocking of the feeder. We find that great tits, males, and individuals with high activity levels were more likely to be leading in each of their feeder visits. Using a null model approach, we demonstrate that the effects of sex and activity on passive leading behavior can be explained by patterns of spatial and temporal occurrence. In other words, these effects can be explained by the times and locations of when individuals visit rather than the actual order of arrival. Hence, an analysis of the causes of leading behavior is needed to separate the effects of different processes. We highlight the importance of understanding the mechanisms behind leading behavior and discuss directions for future experimental work to gain a better understanding of the causes of leadership in natural populations.

Significance statement

Many species are social and engage in collective behaviors. To benefit from group actions, individuals need to fulfill different roles. Here, we examine leading behavior during feeding events; who feeds first when birds arrive at a resource? In mixed-species flocks of passerines, great tits (the larger and more dominant species), males, and individuals with higher levels of activity lead more often than blue tits, females, and individuals with lower levels of activity. While the species effect remains even when we control for the locations and dates of individual feeder visits, the effects of sex and activity are dependent on when and where birds choose to feed.
Resection of oesophageal and oesophagogastric junction cancer liver metastases — a summary of current evidence
Authors: Weiss Andreas R. R. , Donlon Noel E. , Schlitt Hans J. , Hackl Christina
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Metastatic oesophageal cancer is commonly considered as a palliative situation with a poor prognosis. However, there is increasing evidence that well-selected patients with a limited number of liver metastases (ECLM) may benefit from a multimodal approach including surgery.

Methods

A systematic review of the current literature for randomized trials, retrospective studies, and case series with patients undergoing hepatectomies for oesophageal and oesophagogastric junction cancer liver metastases was conducted up to the 31st of August 2021 using the MEDLINE (PubMed) and Cochrane Library databases.

Results

A total of 661 articles were identified. After removal of duplicates, 483 articles were screened, of which 11 met the inclusion criteria. The available literature suggests that ECLM resection in patients with liver oligometastatic disease may lead to improved survival and even long-term survival in some cases. The response to concomitant chemotherapy and liver resection seems to be of significance. Furthermore, a long disease-free interval in metachronous disease, low number of liver metastases, young age, and good overall performance status have been described as potential predictive markers of outcome for the resection of liver metastases.

Conclusion

Surgery may be offered to carefully selected patients to potentially improve survival rates compared to palliative treatment approaches. Studies with standardized patient selection criteria and treatment protocols are required to further define the role for surgery in ECLM. In this context, particular consideration should be given to neoadjuvant treatment concepts including immunotherapies in stage IVB oesophageal and oesophagogastric junction cancer.
Renewed coexistence: learning from steering group stakeholders on a beaver reintroduction project in England
Authors: Auster Roger E. , Barr Stewart W. , Brazier Richard E.
Published: December 2021

Species reintroductions are growing in popularity, and example motivations include supporting species populations or the restoration of ecosystem function. Interactions between humans and the reintroduced species are likely to occur post-reintroduction. Coexistence between humans and wildlife is adaptive and dynamic, in part requiring management of conflicts between humans and wildlife, or of conflicts between humans over wildlife management. We seek to learn from the experiences of steering group members in a Eurasian beaver (Castor fiber) project in England and identify how governance of coexistence with reintroduced species may differ from the governance of coexistence with species that are already present in the landscape. Using a qualitative thematic analysis of an online survey, we identify a series of lessons in six key areas: (1) project governance, (2) stakeholder engagement, (3) research and monitoring programme, (4) strategy to manage arising conflicts, (5) public engagement, and (6) broad perspectives on reintroduction trials. We advocate for reflective evaluation as an essential component of reintroduction projects to enable knowledge-sharing from experiences, leading to improved practices in the future. Reflecting on our analysis, we identify and define ‘Renewed Coexistence’—a new term that draws on pre-existing coexistence knowledge but identifies the unique elements that relate to governing coexistence with reintroduced species.
Investigation of topographic site effects using 3D waveform modelling: amplification, polarization and torsional motions in the case study of Arquata del Tronto (Italy)
Authors: Baron Julie , Primofiore Ilaria , Klin Peter , Vessia Giovanna , Laurenzano Giovanna
Published: December 2021

The combined effect of topography and near-surface heterogeneities on the seismic response is hardly predictable and may lead to an aggravation of the ground motion. We apply physics-based numerical simulations of 3D seismic wave propagation to highlight these effects in the case study of Arquata del Tronto, a municipality in the Apennines that includes a historical village on a hill and a hamlet on the flat terrain of an alluvial basin. The two hamlets suffered different damage during the 2016 seismic sequence in Central Italy. We analyze the linear visco-elastic seismic response for vertically incident plane waves in terms of spectral amplification, polarization and induced torsional motion within the frequency band 1–8 Hz over a 1 km2 square area, with spatial resolution 25 m. To discern the effects of topography from those of the sub-surface structure we iterate the numerical simulations for three different versions of the sub-surface model: one homogeneous, one with a surficial weathering layer and a soil basin and one with a complex internal setting. The numerical results confirm the correlation between topographic curvature and amplification and support a correlation between the induced torsional motion and the topographic slope. On the other hand we find that polarization does not necessarily imply ground motion amplification. In the frequency band above 4 Hz the topography-related effects are mainly aggravated by the presence of the weathering layer, even though they do not exceed the soil-related effects in the flat-topography basin. The geological setting below the weathering layer plays a recognizable role in the topography-related site response only for frequencies below 4 Hz.
Introducing edge-biregular maps
Authors: Reade Olivia
Published: December 2021

We introduce the concept of alternate-edge-colourings for maps and study highly symmetric examples of such maps. Edge-biregular maps of type (k, l) occur as smooth normal quotients of a particular index two subgroup of $$T_{k,l}$$

T

k
,
l

, the full triangle group describing regular plane (k, l)-tessellations. The resulting colour-preserving automorphism groups can be generated by four involutions. We explore special cases when the usual four generators are not distinct involutions, with constructions relating these maps to fully regular maps. We classify edge-biregular maps when the supporting surface has non-negative Euler characteristic, and edge-biregular maps on arbitrary surfaces when the colour-preserving automorphism group is isomorphic to a dihedral group.
Stronger Associations Between Sleep and Mental Health in Adults with Autism: A UK Biobank Study
Authors: Henderson Lisa M. , St Clair M. , Knowland V. , van Rijn E. , Walker S. , Gaskell M. G.
Published: December 2021

This study examined sleep and its cognitive and affective correlates in adults with and without autism spectrum disorder (ASD), utilizing UK Biobank data. There were no group differences in subjective sleep duration [n = 220 ASD; n = 2200 general population (GP)]. Accelerometer measures of sleep duration or nighttime activity did not differ by group, but sleep efficiency was marginally lower in ASD (n = 83 ASD; n = 824 GP). Sleep efficiency was associated with wellbeing and mental health, and pathways between accelerometer sleep measures and wellbeing and mental health were significantly stronger for adults with ASD (who also reported substantially poorer wellbeing and > 5 × likelihood of experiencing mental distress). These findings highlight the need to monitor sleep to maintain good mental health in adult ASD.
Farmland biodiversity: wildflower-sown islands within arable fields and grassy field margins both promote spider diversity
Authors: Rischen Tamara , Geisbüsch Katharina , Ruppert Daniel , Fischer Klaus
Published: December 2021

Agricultural intensification and the concomitant landscape homogenization is leading to a worldwide decline in farmland biodiversity. Non-crop habitats in agroecosystems may counteract the loss of arthropods such as spiders and thus contribute to sustainable agriculture. However, the effectiveness of field margins and set-aside wildflower-sown patches in maintaining spider diversity is not well understood. Here, we investigated the effects of three different non-crop habitats, namely field margins, set-aside wildflower-sown patches under power poles (‘power pole islands’), and grassland fallows on spider diversity as compared to wheat fields in an agricultural landscape in western Germany. Using pitfall trapping and suction sampling, we show that species richness and overall conservation value were higher in non-crop habitats than in wheat fields. Interestingly, field margins and power pole islands differed from long-term grassland fallows only in conservation value, which was significantly higher in grassland fallows. Species assemblages differed considerably between grassland fallows, field margins and power pole islands, and wheat fields, documenting the added value of using different conservation strategies.

Implications for insect conservation

Small-scale non-crop habitats adjacent to wheat fields were surprisingly effective in promoting spider diversity in an agricultural landscape, with field margins and power pole islands being equally effective. To maximize overall diversity in agricultural landscapes, we propose a combination of larger long-term fallows and smaller non-crop habitats such as field margins or set-aside wildflower-sown patches.
Thermovision assessment of temperature changes in selected body areas after short-wave diathermy treatment
Authors: Kaźmierska Bożena , Sobiech Krzysztof Andrzej , Demczuk - Włodarczyk Ewa , Chwałczyńska Agnieszka
Published: December 2021

The aim of this study is to provide the thermal imaging assessment of local and general surface temperature changes after short-wave diathermy treatment. The study group consisted of 26 women aged 19–24. The correct functioning of the thermoregulation system was determined by means of cold pressor and orthostatic tests. The subjects underwent short-wave diathermy treatment in the area of the right knee joint, and the body’s response was determined by thermovision using a ThermaCAM P640 thermal imaging camera manufactured by FLIR. Curves were recorded in a digital form (images with a resolution of 640 × 480 pixels) and analyzed with ThermaCAM ReporterTM software. In people with a properly functioning thermoregulation system, the short-wave diathermy treatment statistically significantly increased the body surface temperature on the posterior surface of the knee joint. On the front side, the surface temperature decreased. There were no changes in surface temperature in the other areas of the body studied. The results of thermal imaging studies confirmed the local nature of the action of short-wave diathermy. The recommendation to use a physical procedure should be preceded by an assessment of the body’s thermoregulation system level of function. Reactions to the prescribed physical treatment may be different in people with a disturbed autonomic system.
Growth and productivity assessments of peanut under different irrigation water management practices using CSM-CROPGRO-Peanut model in Eastern Mediterranean of Turkey
Authors: Sezen Semih Metin , Ahmad Ishfaq , Habib-ur-Rahman Muhammad , Amiri Ebrahim , Tekin Servet , Oz Kadir Can , Maambo Clever Mwika
Published: December 2021

Irrigation water scheduling is crucial to make the most efficient use of ever-decreasing water. As excessive irrigation decreases yield, while imprecise application also causes various environmental issues. Therefore, efficient management of irrigation frequency and irrigation level is necessary to sustain productivity under limited water conditions. The objective of the current study is to assess the water productivity at various irrigation regimes during peanut crop growing seasons (2014 and 2015) in Eastern Mediterranean, Turkey. The field experiments were conducted with treatments consisting of three irrigation frequencies (IF) (IF1: 25 mm; IF2: 50 mm; and IF3: 75 mm of cumulative pan evaporation (CPE)), and four irrigation water levels (WL1 = 0.50, WL2 = 0.75, WL3 = 1.0, and WL4 = 1.25). WL1, WL2, WL3, and WL4treatments received 50, 75, 100, and 125 of cumulative pan evaporation. The CSM-CROPGRO-Peanut model was calibrated with experimental data in 2014 and evaluated with second-year experimental data (2015). The model simulated seed yield and final biomass (dry matter) reasonably well with low normalized root mean square error (RMSEn) in various irrigation intervals. The model simulated reasonably well for days to anthesis (RMSE = 2.53,d-stat = 0.96, andr2 = 0.90), days to physiological maturity (RMSE = 2.55), seed yield (RMSE = 1504), and tops biomass dry weight at maturity (RMSE = 3716). Simulation results indicated good agreement between measured and simulated soil water content (SWC) with low RMSEnvalues (4.0 to 16.8% in 2014 and 4.3 to 18.2% in 2015). Further results showed that IF2I125irrigation regime produced the highest seed yield. Generally, model evaluation performed reasonably well for all studied parameters with both years’ experimental data. Results also showed that the crop model would be a precision agriculture tool for the extrapolation of the allocation of irrigation water resources and decision management under current and future climate.
Multiple Indicators of Wastewater Contamination to Shellfish Farms Near a Tidal River
Authors: Frith Ashley , Henseler Julian , Badri Shahrzad , Calci Kevin R. , Stenson Alexandra , Carmichael Ruth H.
Published: December 2021

Wastewater contamination threatens the shellfish aquaculture industry by posing risks to public health. Multiple indicators of wastewater contamination, including fecal coliforms (fc), male-specific coliphage (MSC), dissolved nutrients, stable isotope ratios, and artificial sweeteners were analyzed to determine possible sources of wastewater to local shellfish farms. Samples were collected at a wastewater treatment plant outfall (WTPO), nonpoint residential, and agricultural areas of a tidal river, and tidal creek inflows adjacent to farms. To capture seasonal variation, we sampled under warm and cold, and wet and dry conditions. Fc ranged < 5–5250 CFU 100 mL−1, NH4+ concentrations ranged up to 9.58 μM, and δ15N ranged 1.4–7.8‰ across all sites and time periods. Fc and NH4+ were higher, and δ15N was lower in the cold wet period and near residential and agricultural areas. Acesulfame and sucralose concentrations ranged 0.004–0.05 μg L−1 and up to > 0.8 μg L−1, respectively, and did not correlate with other indicators but tended to be higher in residential areas and at the WTPO, supporting their value in differentiating human sewage from other sources. Shoreline disturbance during septic system upgrades may have inadvertently contributed bacterial indicators to shellfish farms. Overall, indicator source dominance depended on environmental conditions, with WTPO and residential sources conveying human-specific indicators to farms year-round, while agricultural and industrial sites contributed additional fc during cold wet periods. The use of multiple indicators will aid managers to detect and define wastewater sources, identify targets for monitoring or remediation, and manage shellfish areas in estuaries with a mosaic of land-derived wastewater sources.
Characterization and geostatistical modeling of reservoirs in ‘Falad’ field, Niger Delta, Nigeria
Authors: Falade Ayodele O. , Amigun John O. , Makeen Yousif M. , Kafisanwo Olatunbosun O.
Published: December 2021

This research aims at characterizing and modeling delineated reservoirs in ‘Falad’ Field, Niger Delta, Nigeria, to mitigate the challenge caused by the heterogeneous nature of the reservoirs. Seismic and well log data were integrated, and geostatistics was applied to describe the reservoir properties of the interwell spaces within the study area. Four reservoirs, namely RES 1, RES 2, RES 3 and RES 4, were delineated and correlated across four wells. The reservoir properties {lithology, net to gross, porosity, permeability, water saturation} of all the delineated reservoirs mapped were determined, and two reservoirs with the best quality were picked for further analysis (surface generation and modeling) after ranking the reservoirs based on their quality. Structural interpretation of the field was carried, nine faults were mapped (F1—F9), and the fault polygon was generated. The structural model showed the area is structurally controlled with two of the major faults mapped (F1 and F3) oriented in the SW–NE direction while the other one (F4) is oriented in the NW–SE direction. A 3D grid was constructed using the surfaces of the delineated reservoirs and the reservoir properties were distributed stochastically using simple krigging method with sequential Gaussian simulation, sequential indicator simulation and Gaussian random function simulation algorithms. Geostatistical modeling used in this study has been able to give subsurface information in the areas deficient of well data as the estimated reservoir properties gotten from existing wells have been spatially distributed in the study area and will thus aid future field development while also they are used in identifying new prospect by combining property models with structural maps of the area.
A Tropical Kiss by a Malabar Pit Viper
Authors: Sirur Freston Marc , Lath Vrinda , A.S. Chethana , Mohan Ganesh , Shastry Shamee
Published: December 2021

Snakebite in India is often attributed to the “big 4,” for which polyvalent anti-snake venom is effective. Also significant and less known is the burden of other venomous snakes, one of which is Trimeresurus malabaricus. We report a bite to the face of a tree climber by Trimeresurus malabaricus in the Western Ghats of India, which caused severe local envenomation in the form of facial edema and systemic signs of envenomation, including coagulopathy and hypotension. We discuss the role of thromboelastogram, infrared thermography, and routine diagnostics in this case, which led to the administration of Indian-made polyvalent anti-snake venom. The patient recovered and was discharged without any clinically evident physiological or physical dysfunction.
The Process of Wellbeing
Authors: Kavedžija Iza
Published: December 2021

The Process of Wellbeing develops an anthropological perspective on wellbeing as an intersubjective process that can be approached through the prism of three complementary conceptual framings: conviviality; care; and creativity. Drawing on ethnographic discussions of these themes in a range of cultural contexts around the world, it shows how anthropological research can help to enlarge and refine understandings of wellbeing, through dialogue with different perspectives and understandings of what it means to live well with others and the skills required to do so. Rather than a state or achievement, wellbeing comes into view here as an ongoing process that involves human and nonhuman others. It does not pertain to the individual alone, but plays out within the relations of care that constitute people, moving and thriving in circulation through affective environments.
Dual-solver hybrid computational approaches for design and analysis of vertical lift vehicles
Authors: Smith M.J. , Moushegian A.
Published: December 2021

The cost of Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes simulations can be restrictive to implement in aeromechanics design and analysis of vertical lift configurations given the cost to resolve the flow on a mesh sufficient to provide accurate aerodynamic and structural loads. Dual-solver hybrid methods have been developed that resolve the configuration and the near field with the Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes solvers, while the wake is resolved with vorticity-preserving methods that are more cost-effective. These dual-solver approaches can be integrated into an organisation’s workflow to bridge the gap between lower-fidelity methods and the expensive Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes when there are complex physics present. This paper provides an overview of different dual-solver hybrid methods, coupling approaches, and future efforts to expand their capabilities in the areas of novel configurations and operations in constrained and turbulent environments.
Developing a national database for higher education student counselling services: the importance of collaborations
Authors: Howard Emma , Tayer Farahani Zahra , Rashleigh Chuck , Dooley Barbara
Published: December 2021

Student counselling services are at the forefront of providing mental health support to Irish Higher Education students. Since 1996, the Psychological Counsellors in Higher Education in Ireland (PCHEI) association, through their annual survey collection, has collected aggregate data for the sector. However, to identify national trends and effective interventions, a standardised non-aggregate sectoral approach to data collection is required. The Higher Education Authority funded project, 3SET, builds on the PCHEI survey through the development of a national database. In this paper, we outline the steps followed in developing the database, identify the parties involved at each stage and contrast the approach taken to the development of similar databases. Important factors shaping the development have been the autonomy of counselling services, compliance with General Data Protection Regulation, and the involvement of practitioners. This is an ongoing project with the long-term sustainability of the database being a primary objective.
Kinetic-energy-flux-constrained model using an artificial neural network for large-eddy simulation of compressible wall-bounded turbulence
Authors: Yu Changping , Yuan Zelong , Qi Han , Wang Jianchun , Li Xinliang , Chen Shiyi
Published: December 2021

Kinetic energy flux (KEF) is an important physical quantity that characterizes cascades of kinetic energy in turbulent flows. In large-eddy simulation (LES), it is crucial for the subgrid-scale (SGS) model to accurately predict the KEF in turbulence. In this paper, we propose a new eddy-viscosity SGS model constrained by the properly modelled KEF for LES of compressible wall-bounded turbulence. The new methodology has the advantages of both accurate prediction of the KEF and strong numerical stability in LES. We can obtain an approximate KEF by the tensor-diffusivity model, which has a high correlation with the real value. Then, using the artificial neural network method, the local ratios between the real KEF and the approximate KEF are accurately modelled. Consequently, the SGS model can be improved by the product of that ratio and the approximate KEF. In LES of compressible turbulent channel flow, the new model can accurately predict mean velocity profile, turbulence intensities, Reynolds stress, temperature–velocity correlation, etc. Additionally, for the case of a compressible flat-plate boundary layer, the new model can accurately predict some key quantities, including the onset of transitions and transition peaks, the skin-friction coefficient, the mean velocity in the turbulence region, etc., and it can also predict the energy backscatters in turbulence. Furthermore, the proposed model also shows more advantages for coarser grids.
Stochastic models for the droplet motion and evaporation in under-resolved turbulent flows at a large Reynolds number
Authors: Gorokhovski M.A. , Oruganti S.K.
Published: December 2021

In this work we introduce a Lagrangian stochastic model for particle motion and evaporation to be used in large-eddy simulations (LES) of turbulent liquid sprays. Effects of small-scale intermittency, usually under-resolved in LES, are explicitly included via modelling of the energy dissipation rate seen by a droplet along its trajectory. Namely, the dissipation rate is linked to the norm of the droplet sub-filtered acceleration which is included in the droplet motion equation. This norm, along with the direction of the droplet sub-filtered acceleration, is simulated as a stochastic process. With increasing Reynolds number, the distribution of the sub-filtered acceleration develops longer tails, with a slower decay in auto-correlation functions of the norm and direction of this acceleration. The stochastic models are specified for particles larger and smaller the Kolmogorov length scale. The assumption of the droplet evaporation model is similar, i.e. the evaporation rate is strongly enhanced when a droplet is subjected to very localized zones of intense velocity gradients. Thereby, the overall evaporation process is assumed to be a succession of two steady-state sub-processes with equal intensities, i.e. evaporation and vapour mixing. Then the stochastic properties of the overall evaporation rate are also controlled by fluctuations of the energy dissipation rate along the droplet path, and with increasing Reynolds number, the intensity of fluctuations of this rate is also increasing. The assessment of the presented stochastic models in LES of high-speed non-evaporating and evaporating sprays show the accurate prediction of experimental data on relatively coarser grids along with a remarkably weaker sensitivity to the grid spacing. The joint statistics and Voronoi tessellations exhibit strong intermittency of evaporation rate. The intensity of turbulence along the droplet pathway substantially promotes the vaporization rate.
On the applicability of Taylor's hypothesis, including small sampling velocities
Authors: Pécseli Hans L. , Trulsen Jan K.
Published: December 2021

Taylor's hypothesis, or the frozen turbulence approximation, can be used to estimate also the specific energy dissipation rate

$\epsilon$

by comparing experimental results with the Kolmogorov–Obukhov expression. The hypothesis assumes that a frequency detected by an instrument moving with a constant large velocity

$V$

can be related to a wavenumber by

$\omega = k V$

. It is, however, not obvious how large the translational velocity has to be in order to make the hypothesis valid, or at least applicable with some acceptable uncertainty. Using the space–time-varying structure function for homogeneous and isotropic conditions, this question is addressed in the present study with emphasis on small velocities

$V$

. The structure function is obtained using results from numerical solutions of the Navier–Stokes equation. Particular attention is given to the

$V$

variation of the estimated specific energy dissipation,

$\epsilon _{est}$

, compared with the actual value,

$\epsilon$

, used in the numerical calculations. In contrast to previous studies, the results emphasize velocities

$V$

less than or comparable to the one-component root-mean-square velocity,

$u_{rms}$

. We find that

$\epsilon$

can be determined to an acceptable accuracy for

$V \geq 0.3\,u_{rms}$

. A simple analytical model is suggested to explain the main features of the observations, both Eulerian and Lagrangian. The model assumes that the observed time variations are solely due to eddies moving past the observer, thus ignoring eddy deformation and intermittency effects. In spite of these simplifications, the analysis accounts for most of the numerical results when also eddy-size-dependent velocities are accounted for.
Between Independence and Autonomy: The Changing Landscape of Ethno-nationalist Movements in Pakistan
Authors: Khan Rafiullah
Published: December 2021

Since its inception, Pakistan has faced challenges of ethnic-nationalism from her ethnicities. State efforts to mold these diverse identities into one communal Muslim identity have been continually resisted by the different nationalities comprising Pakistan. The demands of ethno-national movements have fluctuated between independence and autonomy, depending upon the relation between the state and the respective ethnic group. Sometimes the demand for autonomy has expanded into a desire for independence, as was the case with Bengali ethnic nationalism. At other times, the desire for independence has shrunk to a demand for autonomy, as manifested by Pashtun nationalism. This shift is explicated through the relationship between the state and ethnic groups. The author analyzes this shift through the prism of Paul Brass’s instrumental theory of elite competition. The factors that contributed to the success of Bengali nationalism in achieving statehood and the failure of Baloch nationalism to do so are viewed through Ted Gurr’s concept of relative deprivation. The integration of Sindhi and Pashtun ethnic groups into the state structure is explained via Andreas Wimmer’s notion of ownership of the state.
TOUGHNESS, ISOLATED TOUGHNESS AND PATH FACTORS IN GRAPHS
Authors: ZHOU SIZHONG , WU JIANCHENG , XU YANG
Published: December 2021

A graph G is called a
$(P_{\geq n},k)$
-factor-critical covered graph if for any
$Q\subseteq V(G)$
with
$|Q|=k$
and any
$e\in E(G-Q)$
,
$G-Q$
has a
$P_{\geq n}$
-factor covering e. We demonstrate that (i) a
$(k+1)$
-connected graph G with at least
$k+3$
vertices is a
$(P_{\geq 3},k)$
-factor-critical covered graph if its toughness
$t(G)>{(2+k)}/{3}$
; (ii) a
$(k+2)$
-connected graph G is a
$(P_{\geq 3},k)$
-factor-critical covered graph if its isolated toughness
$I(G)>{(5+k)}/{3}$
. Furthermore, we show that the conditions on
$t(G)$
and
$I(G)$
are sharp.
A new bionic hydraulic actuator system for legged robots with impact buffering, impact energy absorption, impact energy storage, and force burst
Authors: Li Jiaqi , Cong Dacheng , Yang Yu , Yang Zhidong
Published: December 2021

It is a big challenge for bionic legged robots to realize desired jumping heights and forward-running speeds, let alone achieve springbok-style jump-running. A key limitation is that there is no actuator system that can mimic the springbok’s muscle system to drive leg–foot system movements. In this paper, we analyze the movement process of springboks and summarize some key characteristics of actuator systems. Some key concepts are then identified based on these key characteristics. Next, we propose a new bionic hydraulic joint actuator system with impact buffering, impact energy absorption, impact energy storage, and force burst, which can be applied to various legged robots to achieve higher running speeds, higher jumping heights, longer endurance, heavier loads, and lighter mass.
OP188 Post-Launch Evidence Generation Studies For Medical Devices In Spain: Integrating Real World Evidence Into Decision-Making
Authors: Imaz-Iglesia Inaki , Serrano Pedro , Orejas Eugenia , Moreno Anai , Puñal-Ruibóo Janet , Palma Matilde , Rivero Amado , Vicente-Sáiz M. Luisa , Reviriego Eva , Alcalde Enrique , González Himar , Gutiérrez-Ibarluzea Iñaki , González-Enríquez Jesús , Asua José , Gutiérrez Asunción , Galnares Lorea
Published: December 2021

Introduction

A national act (Order SSI/1356/2015) regulating Post-Launch Evidence Generation (PLEG) studies was set in Spain in 2015. These PLEG studies are to inform decisions about technologies already included in the Benefit Portfolio of the Spanish National Health System (SNHS) in order to confirm/exclude/modify their terms of use. Once a PLEG is established the selected hospitals provide the technology according to a common protocol and register outcomes until the required sample size is reached.

Methods

The PLEG studies are prospective, observational and single arm studies on safety, effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a technology in real practice. The technology is selected because of the identification of an evidence gap, usually through a health technology assessment (HTA) report made by an agency of the Spanish Network of HTA Agencies (RedETS). The execution of a PLEG is assigned to one of the RedETS Agencies, which is responsible of delivering annual reports and a final report when the objectives are reached.

Results

The following six PLEG studies, all of them on medical devices, have been launched in Spain so far, i) Endobronchial valve for patients with persistent air leak; ii) Biodegradable esophageal stent; iii) Percutaneous mitral valve repair system by clip; iv) Left Atrial Appendage Closure Device; v) Sensor-based glucose monitoring systems for children with type 1 diabetes mellitus; vi) Left ventricular assist devices for destination therapy. Five studies will finish their data collection by the end of 2020 or during 2021.

Conclusions

A new national procedure using PLEG has been made available in Spain facilitating the use of real-world evidence to inform national decision-making on the financing of selected technologies due to uncertainties about their effectiveness, safety, cost-effectiveness and organizational impact. The studies are requiring a high amount of coordination tasks, as they are involving an average of 21 hospitals each. The usefulness and suitability of this procedure to achieve its objectives must be evaluated once their results are available.
OP208 Did Health Technology Assessments Make the Wrong Call? Quantitative Bias Analysis: Alectinib versus Ceritinib in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Wilkinson Samantha , Gupta Alind , Mackay Eric , Arora Paul , Thorlund Kristian , Wasiak Radek , Ray Joshua , Ramagopalan Sreeram
Published: December 2021

Introduction

The German health technology assessment (HTA) rejected additional benefit of alectinib for second line (2L) ALK+ NSCLC, citing possible biases from missing ECOG performance status data and unmeasured confounding in real-world evidence (RWE) for 2L ceritinib that was submitted as a comparator to the single arm alectinib trial. Alectinib was approved in the US and therefore US post-launch RWE can be used to evaluate this HTA decision.

Methods

We compared the real-world effectiveness of alectinib with ceritinib in 2L post-crizotinib ALK+ NSCLC using the nationwide Flatiron Health electronic health record (EHR)-derived de-identified database. Using quantitative bias analysis (QBA), we estimated the strength of (i) unmeasured confounding and (ii) deviation from missing-at-random (MAR) assumptions needed to nullify any overall survival (OS) benefit.

Results

Alectinib had significantly longer median OS than ceritinib in complete case analysis. The estimated effect size (Hazard Ratio: 0.55) was robust to risk ratios of unmeasured confounder-outcome and confounder-exposure associations of <2.4.

Based on tipping point analysis, missing baseline ECOG performance status for ceritinib-treated patients (49% missing) would need to be more than 3.4-times worse than expected under MAR to nullify the OS benefit observed for alectinib.

Conclusions

Only implausible levels of bias reversed our conclusions. These methods could provide a framework to explore uncertainty and aid decision-making for HTAs to enable patient access to innovative therapies.
OP310 Challenges Raised By The Economic Evaluation Of CAR-T-cell therapies: The Review By The French National Authority For Health
Authors: Raimond Véronique , Kaltenbach Emmanuelle , Adam Christophe , Lazzarotto Sébastien , Galès Catherine Le , Perrier Lionel , Wittwer Jérôme
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Since 2013, the coverage of innovative and expensive drugs by the French National Health Insurance considers cost-effectiveness and budget impact, as assessed by the National Authority for Health (HAS) on the basis of an evaluation submitted by the firm. First CAR-T cell therapies were subject to economic evaluation in 2019 in France. We aim at describing the process and results of the economic evaluation of tisagenlecleucel and axicabtagene ciloleucel and the challenges these evaluations raised.

Methods

Primary evaluations were submitted by the firms to be reviewed by HAS. The final analyses were submitted to the Committee of Economic Evaluation and Public Health (CEESP), composed of independent economists, clinicians and patients’ representatives. The CEESP issued Opinions related to i) the methodological quality of economic evidence and ii) the cost-effectiveness and budget impact of the drugs under review.

Results

The estimated incremental cost-utility ratio (ICUR) of tisagenlecleucel were rejected, being based on insufficient clinical evidence to estimate and extrapolate the long-term progression and to compare tisagenlecleucel with alternatives. Thus, the CEESP concluded that tisagenlecleucel was not proved cost-effective. The estimated ICUR of axicabtagene ciloleucel at 114,509EUR/QALY vs. chemotherapies was associated with an acceptable level of evidence despite being based on a frail indirect comparison and limited data on quality of life. In a context where France has no official cost-effectiveness threshold, the CEESP considered axicabtagene ciloleucel ICUR to be “very high” and questioned the collective acceptability of the claimed price.

The CEESP stressed that the main source of uncertainty surrounding the ICUR estimates of both drugs was related to the lack of hindsight on effectiveness, especially in terms of overall survival and safety.

Conclusions

The economic evaluation of CAR-T cell therapies highlights the sources of uncertainty underlying the decision and the risk of inefficient resource allocation driven by limited clinical data. It calls for payment schemes accounting for the uncertainty, and effective collection of relevant post-marketing data.