bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crystallographic Orientation Control of 1D Sb2Se3 Nanorod Arrays for Photovoltaic Application by In Situ Back‐Contact Engineering
Authors: Liang Xiaoyang , Guo Chunsheng , Liu Tao , Liu Yufan , Yang Lin , Song Dengyuan , Shen Kai , Schropp Ruud. E. I. , Li Zhiqiang , Mai Yaohua
Published: July 2020

Low‐dimensional (LD) crystalline inorganic semiconductors have attracted increasing interest due to their unique electrical and optical properties. The crystallographic orientation in the LD films is one of the critical parameters that determine their strong anisotropic physical properties and device performance. Antimony selenide (Sb2Se3), a 1D crystalline semiconductor, is a promising absorber material for emerging photovoltaic technologies. The suitably oriented Sb2Se3 absorbers can offer excellent carrier transport and trap‐free grain boundaries, facilitating high‐efficiency devices. The crystallographic orientation of the Sb2Se3 light‐absorbing layer is found to be governed by the underlying layers, i.e., the back contact in substrate‐type solar cells. Herein, an in situ surface selenization treatment to the tungsten (W) back contact is applied to change the growth of Sb2Se3 layer from a layer‐like growth mode to an island‐like growth mode. As a result, highly [hk1]‐oriented Sb2Se3 nanorod arrays growing perpendicular to the W back‐contact surface are achieved. Moreover, the resulting tungsten selenide (WSe2) thin layer also acts as a hole transport layer and promotes hole extraction. Consequently, a conversion efficiency as high as 8.46% in Sb2Se3 solar cells with substrate configuration is achieved.
Children and Violence: Nurturing Social‐Emotional Development to Promote Mental Health
Authors: Malti Tina
Published: July 2020

The absence of violence against children is a fundamental children's right and a major milestone of civilized society. Similarly, reports on incidences of violence by children and youth, including severe cases with devastating consequences, speak to the need that the trauma of exposure to violence in childhood needs to be addressed. While violence and its risk factors are generally understood, what is less clear are the essential protective factors, how we can identify those as early as possible, and how we can use them to prevent and address the trauma of violence exposure in children and youth. In this report, I review pathways of child and youth violence through the lens of social‐emotional development as a central protective factor. Negative emotions of frustration and anger can underlie violence and aggression. Kind emotions, such as caring and our ability to connect with others emotionally, can serve as social‐emotional protective factors. A brief review of the central social‐emotional processes and their development is provided, including the human capacity to feel with others and express empathy, be emotionally aware and care about the effects of one's own actions on others, and be able to regulate the self and their emotions. Given the negative widespread and long‐term impact of exposure to violence, I describe research‐informed attempts to prevent violence exposure across development. Taking a humanistic, strength‐based perspective, the focus is on social‐emotional protective factors to address violence and nurture mental health in every child. I conclude with recommendations for practice and policy.
Numeric Simulation of the Steel Flow in a Slab Caster with a Box‐Type Electromagnetic Stirrer
Authors: Barna Martin , Javurek Mirko , Wimmer Peter
Published: July 2020

The usage of electromagnetic actuators in the continuous steel‐casting process is on a steady rise, due to its possibilities for a sophisticated, contactless flow control. The complexity of the casting process and the ever‐increasing quality demands require a well‐founded knowledge of the interaction between the electromagnetic actuators and the liquid steel flow. Numeric modeling provides a detailed view and is therefore crucial for understanding the interaction between the electromagnetic fields and the liquid steel flow. Only a deep insight into the coupling between the liquid steel flow and the electromagnetic forces makes it possible to improve/optimize the continuous casting process. The work presented here is part of an ongoing research to bridge the gap between the liquid steel flow and the grain structure of the end product. The article's focus lies on the liquid steel flow modified by a traveling magnetic field—relying mainly on numerical simulations. Different modeling approaches are used to simulate linear electromagnetic stirring in the secondary cooling zone of a slab caster. An appropriate model is chosen to investigate the influence of various stirring parameters, stirring modes, and stirring positions. From the results, conclusions for the real casting process can be drawn.
Kinetics of Isothermal Phase Transformations in Premium and Standard Rail Steels
Authors: Rodrigues Karine F. , Mourão Gabriel M. M. , Faria Geraldo L.
Published: July 2020

Recently published articles have enhanced the importance of understanding phase transformations in rail eutectoid steels in an attempt to improve their manufacturing and welding processes. Herein, the kinetics of isothermal phase transformations of three eutectoid steels used in railways around the world are evaluated. Computer simulations are performed to evaluate the effect of steel chemical compositions on phase transformations considering thermodynamic equilibrium conditions. Austenitizing temperatures under continuous heating and the time intervals of isothermal austenite decomposition are measured by dilatometry. The time–temperature–transformation diagrams are determined. Qualitative and quantitative microscopy techniques are applied to characterize the phase transformation products. It is shown that by applying a well‐planned heat treatment, it is possible to obtain microstructural characteristics for a standard steel as refined as those achieved for premium steels. Empirical equations proposed in the literature to predict the Bs temperatures are applied, and the experimental values are compared. Using the dilatometry data, it is possible to determine the global activation energy for austenite–bainite transformation. Results show that premium steels have higher overall activation energy for austenite–bainite decomposition than what occurs in standard. This article presents unpublished data useful for steel researchers as well for rail manufacturers and welders.
Noisy low‐rank matrix completion under general bases
Authors: Shi Lei , Zou Changliang
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we consider the low‐rank matrix completion problem under general bases, which intends to recover a structured matrix via a linear combination of prespecified bases. Existing works focus primarily on orthonormal bases; however, it is often necessary to adopt nonorthonormal bases in some real applications. Thus, there is a great need to address the feasibility of some popular estimators in such situations. We present several reasonable and widely applicable assumptions that cover the well‐cultivated orthonormal systems as a special case. Under these assumptions, it is proved that the least squares estimator with the nuclear norm regularization is capable of achieving successful recovery with high probability. The error bounds under the Frobenius norm are established for recovery of both exact and approximate low‐rank matrices. Theoretical findings are further corroborated via simulations.
Assessment of groundwater quality in west metropolitan of Iran: An application of GIS and modeling
Authors: Seidmohammadi Abdolmotaleb , Sharifi Zahra , Faradmal Javad , Norouzi Hossein Ali , Rafati lida , Aleseyyed Seyyed Bahman , Asadi Fateme
Published: July 2020

Groundwater resources in special have been applied for drinking water use versus surface water in Iran. However, this groundwater withdrawal has not been monitored for its level and quality. The present study aimed at determining the qualitative changes of Hamedan groundwater resources using the Kriging and analysis of quality assurance approach. To investigate the spatial variations of water quality in Hamedan, the following physical parameters were taken into consideration: total dissolved solid and electrical conductivity; chemical agents including calcium, magnesium, sodium adsorption ratio, iron, fluoride, sulfate, nitrate, phosphate; residual concentrations of pesticides in drinking water, including organochlorine (difenoconazole and permethrin), organophosphate (chlorpyrifos, diazinon, and malathion), and pyrethroids (fenvalerate); and heavy metals including cadmium, lead, arsenic, mercury, chromium, copper, and zinc. The geographic information system (ArcGIS10.4) was used to draw the isopotential maps of the resources. Schuler, Piper, and Durov diagrams as well as AqQA software were used to determine the water quality. According to Shuler's diagram, samples of drinking water in Hamedan vary from moderate to good in terms of quality. The concentration of physicochemical parameters in the north, northwest, and northeast of Hamedan was higher than the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. The residual concentrations of pesticides, arsenic, mercury, chromium, and cadmium were lower than the WHO guidelines. However, the concentrations of copper and zinc in northern Hamedan were higher than the guidelines. According to the geological map of the plains of Hamedan, it can be concluded that the source rock mainly consists of dolomite and igneous rock is made of alkaline‐basaltic feldspar. Variations in the chemical composition of drinking water in Hamedan depend on the amount of precipitation, soil, water harvesting, excessive use of fertilizers and human activities.
Cosmetic surgery in men
Authors: Kain Nakul , Amar Olivier
Published: July 2020

Social pressure to look good is part of the reason almost 1 in 10 cosmetic surgery procedures in the UK are performed in men. However, they are not without risk. Here the authors consider what is on offer to men as well as the dangers to be aware of.
Epidemics and Pandemics: Coronavirus Disease in the United States, Lessons Learned and Way Forward
Authors: Habayeb Salim J.
Published: July 2020

In spite of presumed readiness to confront infectious disease outbreaks, the United States was unprepared for the advent of the novel Coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) in the early months of 2020. The response was slow, mired in ad hoc responses, lack of planning, challenges in supply chains and human resources, and discord in balancing public health measures with economic considerations arising from far‐reaching disruptions in various sectors. The lessons learned derive from such challenges. Until protective vaccines and effective therapeutics are developed, communities need to embrace basic hygiene, face covering, physical distancing, avoidance of congested settings or closed environments, and protecting the vulnerable. Further spread would continue, but the current surge waves would ultimately run their course, although endemicity and scattered outbreaks would persist. Confronting COVID‐19 and strengthening both domestic and international preparedness to respond to the emergence and re‐emergence of other infectious diseases should be a relentless undertaking.
Fentanyl, COVID‐19, and Public Health
Authors: Shelley Louise
Published: July 2020

COVID‐19 temporarily severed the production and the supply chains for fentanyl, a synthetic narcotic responsible for over 30,000 deaths in the United States in 2018. Much fentanyl was produced in Wuhan, China, the source of the epidemic. Fentanyl was previously sold directly to American consumers through online websites and was also supplied by Mexican drug traffickers, who produced the drug from precursor chemicals purchased from China. With the advent of the pandemic, websites from Wuhan‐based sellers reported that the drugs were not being produced or shipped. Moreover, Mexican drug traffickers were deprived of the precursor chemicals to produce this highly potent opioid. Despite the reduced entry of illicit fentanyl to the United States, enough was stockpiled by drug traffickers perpetuating a very serious problem of illegal fentanyl abuse. Deaths have increased since the start of the COVID epidemic, as the problems of drug abuse have not stopped and access to treatment and medical services are diminished. Moreover, isolation and lack of social support compound the problem. The initial data on increased deaths from illegal fentanyl consumption are consistent with the overall picture of the impact of the COVID epidemic. Those who are most vulnerable are suffering disproportionately from the drug trade.
Update on the development of molecular imaging and nanomedicine in China: Optical imaging
Authors: Wu Lina , Zou Hongyan , Wang Hongbin , Zhang Sihang , Liu Shuang , Jiang Ying , Chen Jing , Li Yingbo , Shao Mengping , Zhang Ruixin , Li Xiaona , Dong Jing , Yang Lili , Wang Kai , Zhu Xinyuan , Sun Xilin
Published: July 2020

Molecular imaging has received increased attention worldwide, including in China, because it offers noninvasive characterization of widely diverse clinically significant pathologies. To achieve these goals, nanomedicine has evolved into a broad interdisciplinary field with flexible designs to accommodate and concentrate imaging and therapeutic payloads into pathological cells through selective binding to disease specific cell membrane biomarkers. This concept of personalized medicine reflects the vision of “magic bullets” proposed by German biochemist Paul Ehrlich over 100 years ago. As happening worldwide, Chinese scientists are contributing to this tsunami of science and technologies through impactful national programs and international research collaborations. This review provides a comprehensive update of Chinese innovations to address intractable unmet medical need in China and worldwide in the optical sciences.

This article is categorized under:

Diagnostic Tools > in vivo Nanodiagnostics and Imaging
Discovering a Global Perspective
Authors: Aston Jennifer , Bishop Catherine
Published: July 2020

Aston and Bishop introduce the first book to consider nineteenth-century businesswomen from a global perspective, moving beyond existing European and trans-Atlantic frameworks and discovering a global perspective. These businesswomen, who made money and business decisions for themselves rather than as employees, ran a variety of enterprises, from micro-businesses in the ‘grey market’ to large factories with international reach. They included publicans and farmers, midwives and property developers, milliners and plumbers, pirates and shopkeepers. Despite a variety of legal and structural restrictions, women in the long nineteenth century made important but largely unrecognised contributions to economies around the world, many of them in business. This volume encourages gender historians to think more about business and business historians to think more about gender.
Maize, Cassava, and Sweet Potato Yield on Monthly Climate in Malawi
Authors: Kawaye Floney P. , Hutchinson Michael F.
Published: July 2020

Climate change and climate variability in Malawi have negatively affected the production of maize, a staple food crop. This has adversely affected food security. On the other hand, there have been increases in growing area, production, yield, consumption, and commercialization of both cassava and sweet potato. Factors behind these increases include the adaptive capacity of these crops in relation to climate change and variability, structural adjustment programs, population growth and urbanization, new farming technologies, and economic development. Cassava and sweet potato are seen to have the potential to contribute to food security and alleviate poverty among rural communities.

This study used a simple generic growth index model called GROWEST to model observed yields of maize, cassava, and sweet potato across Malawi between 2001 and 2012. The method can be viewed as a hybrid approach between complex process-based crop models and typical statistical models. For each food crop, the GROWEST model was able to provide a robust correlation between observed yields and spatially interpolated monthly climate. The model parameters, which included optimum growing temperatures and growing seasons, were well determined and agreed with known values. This indicated that these models could be used with reasonable confidence to project the impacts of climate change on crop yield. These projections could help assess the future of food security in Malawi under the changing climate and assist in planning for this future.
Improving Food Security by Adapting and Mitigating Climate Change-Induced Crop Pest: The Novelty of Plant-Organic Sludge in Southern Nigeria
Authors: Nwaogu Chukwudi
Published: July 2020

Climate change is a global issue threatening food security, environmental safety, and human health in tropical and developing countries where people depend mainly on agriculture for their livelihood. Nigeria ranks among the top in the global yam production. It has the largest population in Africa and has been able to secure food for its growing population through food crops especially yam. Unfortunately, the recent increase in termites’ colonies due to climate change threatens yam yield. Besides harming man and environment, pesticides are expensive and not easily accessible to control the pests. This prompted a study which aimed at applying a biotrado-cultural approach in controlling the termites, as well as improving soil chemical properties and yam production. The study hypothesized thatChromolaena odorataandElaeis guineensissludge improved soil nutrient and yam yield and consequently decreased termites’ outbreak. In a randomized design experiment of five blocks and five replicates, five different treatments including unmanaged (UM),Vernonia amygdalina(VA),Chromolaena odorata(CO),Elaeis guineensis(EG) liquid sludge, and fipronil (FP) were applied in termites-infested agricultural soil. Data were collected and measured on the responses of soil chemical properties, termites, and yam yield to treatments using one-way ANOVA, regression, and multivariate analyses. The result showed thatChromolaena odorata(CO) and EG treatments were the best treatments for controlling termites and increase yam production. Termites were successfully controlled in VA and FP treatments, but the control was not commensurate with yam production. The experiment needs to be extended to other locations in the study region. It also requires an intensive and long-term investigation in order to thoroughly understand (i) the influence of climate change on the termites’ outbreak, (ii) the extent of termite damage to the crops, (iii) the impacts of climate change and variability on yam yields, (iii) the agricultural and economic benefits of the applied treatments, and (iv) the ecological and human health safety of the treatments.
Generalized positivity bounds on chiral perturbation theory
Authors: Wang Yu-Jia , Guo Feng-Kun , Zhang Cen , Zhou Shuang-Yong
Published: July 2020

Abstract

Recently, a new set of positivity bounds with t derivatives have been discovered. We explore the generic features of these generalized positivity bounds with loop amplitudes and apply these bounds to constrain the parameters in chiral perturbation theory up to the next-to-next-to-leading order. We show that the generalized positivity bounds give rise to stronger constraints on the $$ {\overline{l}}_i $$

l
¯

i

constants, compared to the existing axiomatic bounds. The parameter space of the bi constants is constrained by the generalized positivity bounds to be a convex region that is enclosed for many sections of the total space. We also show that the improved version of these positivity bounds can further enhance the constraints on the parameters. The often used Padé unitarization method however does not improve the analyticity of the amplitudes in the chiral perturbation theory at low energies.
Bringt die Abdeckung des ovalen Fensters zusätzlich zum runden Fenster bei der Reservetherapie der akuten idiopathischen Ertaubung einen Vorteil?
Authors: Hofmann V. M. , Schoenfeld U. , Jagielski M. , Pudszuhn A.
Published: July 2020

Hintergrund

Bei plötzlich aufgetretener einseitiger hochgradiger sensorineuraler Hörstörung bzw. Ertaubung können Patienten nach frustraner intravenöser Glukokortikoidtherapie einer explorativen Tympanotomie mit Abdeckung des runden und/oder ovalen Fensters (RF und/oder OF) wegen des Verdachts einer Rundfenstermembranruptur mit Perilymphfistel (PLF) oder einer Fissula ante fenestram (FAF) behandelt werden. Die Studie untersucht, ob die zusätzliche Abdeckung des ovalen Fensters im Vergleich zur alleinigen Abdeckung des runden Fensters einen zusätzlichen Hörgewinn bringt.

Methodik

Die retrospektive Studie untersucht 54 Patienten mit akuter Ertaubung und durchgeführter Tympanoskopie, bei denen Audiogramme von 3 Zeitpunkten (präoperativ, nach Detamponade sowie mindestens 3–6 Monate postoperativ) vorlagen. Bei 28 Patienten erfolgte neben der Rundfensterabdeckung die zusätzliche Abdeckung des ovalen Fensters.

Ergebnis

Eine intraoperativ sichtbare PFL bzw. FAF wurde in keinem Operationsbericht beschrieben. Die Hörschwellen waren im frühen postoperativen Zeitraum bereits hoch signifikant geringer und verbesserten sich im weiteren Verlauf. Zwischen den Subgruppen RF und RF + OF zeigte sich in beiden postoperativen Zeiträumen kein signifikanter Unterschied. Bei 65 % (Kriterien nach Kanzaki) und 74 % (Kriterien nach Siegel) der Patienten konnte postoperativ eine partielle bzw. komplette Hörverbesserung nachgewiesen werden. Beim Vergleich der Patientengruppen mit bzw. ohne postoperative Hörverbesserung zeigten sich keine statistischen Unterschiede bezüglich Geschlecht, Alter, Nebendiagnosen oder Latenz der Operation bis zum Symptombeginn.

Schlussfolgerung

In dieser Studie zeigte die zusätzliche Abdeckung des OF keine signifikante Hörverbesserung. Die postoperative Hörverbesserung entspricht den publizierten Spontanremissionsraten. Nur eine prospektive multizentrische Studie mit Kontrollgruppe kann den Stellenwert der Tympanoskopie und mit Rund- bzw. ovaler Fensterabdeckung bei einer akuten hochgradigen sensorineuralen Schwerhörigkeit vor dem Hintergrund der Spontanremissionen klären.
Nocebo, Aufklärung und Arzt-Patienten-Kommunikation
Authors: Hansen E. , Zech N. , Benson S.
Published: July 2020

Negative Vorerfahrungen, Beobachtungen und Erwartungen können Nocebo-Effekte bedingen. Diese sind für einen erheblichen Teil der Nebenwirkungen bei medizinischen Behandlungen verantwortlich und werden insbesondere bei der medizinischen Risikoaufklärung ausgelöst. Dies zeigen u. a. Studien, in denen eine Patientengruppe nicht oder abweichend aufgeklärt wurde. In Medikamentenstudien aus dem Bereich der Neurologie und Psychiatrie werden Nebenwirkungen und Studienabbrüche regelmäßig auch in Placebogruppen beobachtet. Die zugrunde liegenden neurobiologischen Mechanismen wurden insbesondere für Nocebo-induzierten Schmerz experimentell untersucht, wobei mittels funktioneller Bildgebung die spezifisch beteiligten Hirnareale identifiziert sowie Effekte im Dopamin‑, Endorphin- und Cholecystokininsystem gezeigt wurden. Nocebo-Effekte sind spezifisch, d. h., es treten genau die Symptome auf oder werden verstärkt, über die im Rahmen der Aufklärung gesprochen wurde. Dennoch ist Aufklärung unabdingbar. Sie kann jedoch deutlich weniger schädigend erfolgen, wenn auf unnötige Wiederholungen verzichtet wird, Missverständnisse erkannt und ausgeräumt werden, positive Formulierungen verwendet und mehrere Möglichkeiten aufgezeigt werden. Zudem sollte unbedingt zusammen mit dem Risiko etwas Positives genannt werden, etwa der Nutzen der betreffenden Therapie, die ergriffenen prophylaktischen Maßnahmen oder die frühe Erkennung und Behandlung einer sich entwickelnden Nebenwirkung. Der beste Schutz vor einem Aufklärungsschaden ist eine vertrauensvolle Arzt-Patienten-Beziehung. Mangelnde Kenntnisse und fehlende Maßnahmen gegen diese ernst zu nehmende Gefährdung von Patienten können nach heutigem Wissen als Behandlungsfehler angesehen werden.
Acute, isolated and unstable syndesmotic injuries are frequently associated with intra-articular pathologies
Authors: Rellensmann Kathrin , Behzadi Cyrus , Usseglio John , Vosseller James Turner , Böcker Wolfgang , Polzer Hans , Baumbach Sebastian Felix
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Although simultaneous arthroscopy for the surgical treatment of acute isolated, unstable syndesmotic injuries has been recommended, little knowledge is present about the actual frequency of intra-articular pathologies for this injury. The aim of this study was to investigate the frequency and severity of intra-articular pathologies detected during arthroscopy and their subsequent treatment in acute isolated, unstable syndesmotic injuries.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of patients treated by arthroscopic-assisted stabilization for acute isolated, syndesmotic instability was performed. The primary outcome parameter was the frequency of intra-articular pathologies. Secondary outcome parameters were the type of syndesmotic lesion (ligamentous/bony), severity of chondral lesions, MRI findings, treatment details, complications and the identification of factors associated with intra-articular pathologies.

Results

Twenty-seven patients, 19% female, with a mean age of 37 ± 12 years met the inclusion criteria. 70% suffered isolated ligamentous injuries, the remaining suffered avulsion fractures of the syndesmosis. Chondral lesions occurred in 48% (ICRS grade II: 33%; ICRS grade IV 15%) and intra-articular loose bodies in 11% of patients. Overall, arthroscopy revealed intra-articular pathologies necessitating further treatment in 19% of patients. Neither the type of syndesmotic injury (bony vs. ligamentous; ns) nor the degree of ligamentous instability (West Point IIB vs. III; ns) had a significant influence on the occurrence of chondral lesions. One complication (SSI) occurred. Pre-operative MRI revealed a sensitivity/specificity of 100/79% for chondral lesions and 50/93% for loose bodies.

Conclusion

Intra-articular pathologies in acute isolated, unstable syndesmotic injuries occur in up to 50% of patients, 19% necessitated additional treatment. Simultaneous arthroscopy, independent of the pre-operative MRI findings, appears reasonable in highly active patients.

Level of evidence

Level III.
Boolean analysis of lateral inhibition
Authors: Tonello Elisa , Siebert Heike
Published: July 2020

We study Boolean networks which are simple spatial models of the highly conserved Delta–Notch system. The models assume the inhibition of Delta in each cell by Notch in the same cell, and the activation of Notch in presence of Delta in surrounding cells. We consider fully asynchronous dynamics over undirected graphs representing the neighbour relation between cells. In this framework, one can show that all attractors are fixed points for the system, independently of the neighbour relation, for instance by using known properties of simplified versions of the models, where only one species per cell is defined. The fixed points correspond to the so-called fine-grained “patterns” that emerge in discrete and continuous modelling of lateral inhibition. We study the reachability of fixed points, giving a characterisation of the trap spaces and the basins of attraction for both the full and the simplified models. In addition, we use a characterisation of the trap spaces to investigate the robustness of patterns to perturbations. The results of this qualitative analysis can complement and guide simulation-based approaches, and serve as a basis for the investigation of more complex mechanisms.
The influence of perioperative interventions targeting psychological distress on clinical outcome after total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Sorel Juliette Caroline , Overvliet Geke Marianne , Gademan Maaike Gerarda Johanna , den Haan Chantal , Honig Adriaan , Poolman Rudolf Wilhelm
Published: July 2020

Our aim was to assess the effect of perioperative interventions targeting psychological distress on clinical outcome after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). We searched studies on the effect of perioperative interventions focused on psychological distress used in conjunction with TKA on pain, function, and quality of life (QoL) on PubMed, Embase.com, PsycINFO/OVID, CENTRAL, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Scopus, and Web of Science. We included 40 studies (22 RCTs, ten cohort studies, and eight quasi-experimental studies) with a total of 3846 patients. We graded the quality of evidence as low for pain and function and as moderate for QoL. Patients receiving music, education, cognitive behavioural therapy, guided imagery, pain coping skills training, Reiki, occupational therapy with self-monitoring, and biofeedback-assisted progressive muscles relaxing training had lower pain scores or declined opioid prescriptions after TKA. Pain coping skills training, audio recording-guided imagery scripts, video promoting self-confidence, psychological therapies by video, Reiki, music, occupational therapy with self-monitoring, education, and psychotherapy improved postoperative functional outcome. Education through an app improved QoL after TKA. The studies in our systematic review show that perioperative interventions targeting psychological distress for patients receiving TKA seem to have a positive effect on postoperative pain, function, and QoL. RCTs with strict methodological safeguards are still needed to determine if perioperative interventions focused on psychological distress should be used in conjunction with TKA. These studies should also assess which type of intervention will be most effective in improving patient-reported outcome measures and declining opioid prescriptions.
Early surgery may lower mortality in patients suffering from severe spinal infection
Authors: Lener Sara , Wipplinger Christoph , Stocsits Anna , Hartmann Sebastian , Hofer Anja , Thomé Claudius
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Spinal infection (SI) is a life-threatening condition and treatment remains challenging. Numerous factors influence the outcome of SI and both conservative and operative care can be applied. As SI is associated with mortality rates between 2 and 20% even in developed countries, the purpose of the present study was to investigate the occurrence and causes of death in patients suffering from SI.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed on 197 patients, categorized into two groups according to their outcome: D (death) and S (survival). The diagnosis was based on clinical and imaging (MRI) findings. Data collected included demographics, clinical characteristics, comorbidities, infection parameters, treatment details, outcomes, and causes of death.

Results

The number of deaths was significantly higher in the conservative group (n = 9/51, 18%) compared with the operative counterpart (n = 8/146, 6%; p = 0.017). Death caused by septic multiorgan failure was the major cause of fatalities (n = 10/17, 59%) followed by death due to cardiopulmonary reasons (n = 4/17, 24%). The most frequent indication for conservative treatment in patients of group D included “highest perioperative risk” (n = 5/17, 29%).

Conclusion

We could demonstrate a significantly higher mortality rate in patients solely receiving conservative treatment. Mortality is associated with number and type of comorbidities, but also tends to be correlated with primarily acquired infection. As causes of death are predominantly associated with a septic patient state or progression of disease, our data may call for an earlier and more aggressive treatment. Nevertheless, prospective clinical trials will be mandatory to better understand the pathogenesis and course of spinal infection, and to develop high quality, evidence-based treatment recommendations.
Contrasting development trajectories for coastal Bangladesh to the end of century
Authors: Lázár Attila Nándor , Nicholls Robert James , Hall Jim William , Barbour Emily Jane , Haque Anisul
Published: July 2020

Bangladesh is one of the most climate-sensitive countries globally, creating significant challenges for future development. Here we apply an integrated assessment model — Delta Dynamic Integrated Emulator Model (ΔDIEM) — to the south-west coastal zone of Bangladesh to explore the outcomes of four contrasting and plausible development trajectories under different climate and socio-economic scenarios: (1) embankment rehabilitation; (2) build elevation via controlled sedimentation; (3) planned migration (managed retreat) and (4) ‘do nothing’ (unplanned migration and abandonment). Embankment rehabilitation reduces flood risk, but at a high economic cost and enhancing waterlogging. Planned and unplanned migration combined with limited infrastructure management and governance both result in significant abandonment. Building elevation through sedimentation has the potential for increased environmental and economic sustainability but raises equity issues. Poverty and inequality persist across all scenarios, and outmigration from the coastal zone continues, although the magnitude is sensitive to assumptions about sea-level rise, socio-economic development and development trajectory. Integrated assessment tools linking the environment, people and policy choices, such as the ΔDIEM used here, highlight the complex interactions occurring in a dynamic delta environment. Such analysis supports informed management, development and adaptation.
Developing computational infrastructure for the CorCenCC corpus: The National Corpus of Contemporary Welsh
Authors: Knight Dawn , Loizides Fernando , Neale Steven , Anthony Laurence , Spasić Irena
Published: July 2020

CorCenCC (Corpws Cenedlaethol Cymraeg Cyfoes—National Corpus of Contemporary Welsh) is the first comprehensive corpus of Welsh designed to be reflective of language use across communication types, genres, speakers, language varieties (regional and social) and contexts. This article focuses on the computational infrastructure that we have designed to support data collection for CorCenCC, and the subsequent uses of the corpus which include lexicography, pedagogical research and corpus analysis. A grass-roots approach to design has been adopted, that has adapted and extended previous corpus-building and introduced new features as required for this specific context and language. The key pillars of the infrastructure include a framework that supports metadata collection, an innovative mobile application designed to collect spoken data (utilising a crowdsourcing approach), a backend database that stores curated data and a web-based interface that allows users to query the data online. A usability study was conducted to evaluate the user facing tools and to suggest directions for future improvements. Though the infrastructure was developed for Welsh language collection, its design can be re-used to support corpus development in other minority or major language contexts, broadening the potential utility and impact of this work.
Chest CT for early detection and management of coronavirus disease (COVID-19): a report of 314 patients admitted to Emergency Department with suspected pneumonia
Authors: Gaia Cartocci , Maria Chiara Colaiacomo , Silvia Lanciotti , Chiara Andreoli , Maria Luisa De Cicco , Giulia Brachetti , Silvia Pugliese , Lucia Capoccia , Alessandra Tortora , Annarita Scala , Cristina Valentini , Maria Almberger , Maria Rosaria D’Aprile , Giacinta Avventurieri , Riccardo Giura , Zaher Kharrub , Andrea Leonardi , Maddalena Boccia , Catalano Carlo , Paolo Ricci
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The purpose of our study was to assess the potential role of chest CT in the early detection of COVID-19 pneumonia and to explore its role in patient management in an adult Italian population admitted to the Emergency Department.

Methods

Three hundred and fourteen patients presented with clinically suspected COVID-19, from March 3 to 23, 2020, were evaluated with PaO2/FIO2 ratio from arterial blood gas, RT-PCR assay from nasopharyngeal swab sample and chest CT. Patients were classified as COVID-19 negative and COVID-19 positive according to RT-PCR results, considered as a reference. Images were independently evaluated by two radiologists blinded to the RT-PCR results and classified as “CT positive” or “CT negative” for COVID-19, according to CT findings.

Results

According to RT-PCR results, 152 patients were COVID-19 negative (48%) and 162 were COVID-19 positive (52%). We found substantial agreement between RT-PCR results and CT findings (p < 0.000001), as well as an almost perfect agreement between the two readers. Mixed GGO and consolidation pattern with peripheral and bilateral distribution, multifocal or diffuse abnormalities localized in both upper lung and lower lung, in association with interlobular septal thickening, bronchial wall thickening and air bronchogram, showed higher frequency in COVID-positive patients. We also found a significant correlation between CT findings and patient’s oxygenation status expressed by PaO2/FIO2 ratio.

Conclusion

Chest CT has a useful role in the early detection and in patient management of COVID-19 pneumonia in a pandemic. It helps in identifying suspected patients, cutting off the route of transmission and avoiding further spread of infection.
Herkunftsbedingte Leistungsdisparitäten: Die Rolle von Selbstwirksamkeitsüberzeugungen und Unterstützungshandlungen von Eltern und Leistungserwartungen von Lehrpersonen
Authors: Niederbacher Edith , Neuenschwander Markus P.
Published: July 2020

Bei der Erklärung von herkunftsbedingten Leistungsdisparitäten spielen neben strukturellen Merkmalen familiäre und schulische Prozessmerkmale eine wichtige Rolle. Die vorliegende Studie versucht, den Zusammenhang zwischen dem elterlichen Ausbildungsniveau und Leistungen in Deutsch und Mathematik mittels Selbstwirksamkeitsüberzeugungen zur Lernunterstützung und Unterstützungshandlungen von Eltern sowie mittels Leistungserwartungen von Lehrpersonen zu erklären. Die Ergebnisse von Strukturgleichungsmodellen und Mediationsanalysen zeigten, dass der Zusammenhang zwischen dem elterlichen Ausbildungsniveau und den Leistungen in beiden Fächern durch Leistungserwartungen von Lehrpersonen sowie im Fach Deutsch durch elterliche Selbstwirksamkeitsüberzeugungen und Leistungserwartungen von Lehrpersonen (multiple Mediation) erklärt wird. Die Analysen wurden für zwei Gruppen (einsprachige und fremd- bzw. mehrsprachige Schülerinnen und Schüler) durchgeführt. Leistungsdisparitäten zwischen einsprachigen und fremd- bzw. mehrsprachigen Kindern wurden nicht durch unterschiedliche Zusammenhänge zwischen den Konzepten, sondern durch Mittelwertunterschiede in bestimmten Variablen erklärt.
Novel Biomarkers in Sinonasal Cancers: from Bench to Bedside
Authors: Lechner Matt , Liu Jacklyn , Lund Valerie J.
Published: July 2020

Purpose of Review

Sinonasal cancers are a heterogenous group of rare cancers for which histopathological diagnosis can be very challenging and treatment options are limited for advanced disease in particular. Here, we review the candidacy of novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, and therapeutic targets for sinonasal cancers.

Recent Findings

Molecular multidimensional analyses of sinonasal cancers have been lagging behind other major cancers, but there are numerous publications describing the discovery of novel candidate biomarkers, e.g. the methylation classifier, originally developed for brain cancers, and gene expression panels for the prediction of response to induction chemotherapy in sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma. The most promising biomarkers are summarized and discussed further with regard to their clinical applicability and future potential.

Many of the described novel biomarkers for sinonasal cancers will eventually overcome the pitfalls associated with the frequently non-specific immunohistological tests. With comprehensive, multidimensional molecular testing of these tumours in collaborative consortia projects, our better understanding of the molecular mechanisms of sinonasal cancers and their carcinogenesis will determine the most useful diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, allow stringent multi-institutional validation and guide trials on targeted therapies.
Slurs and Expressive Commitments
Authors: Hess Leopold
Published: July 2020

Most accounts of the derogatory meaning of slurs are semantic. Recently, Nunberg (2018) proposed a purely pragmatic account offering a compelling picture of the relation between derogatory content and social context. Nunberg posits that the semantic content of slurs is identical to that of neutral counterparts, and that derogation is a result of the association of slur use with linguistic conventions of bigoted speakers. The mechanism responsible for it is a special kind of conversational implicature. However, this paper argues that Nunberg’s proposal suffers from technical and conceptual problems regarding the application of the concepts of implicature and convention. It is proposed that the implicature mechanism should be replaced by expressive commitment attribution (developed for expressives in Hess Journal of Pragmatics, 129,13–33 2018, 2019). The account advocated here preserves crucial insights of Nunberg’s analysis (and incorporates elements of other pragmatic accounts, cf. Anderson and Lepore Noûs 47(1), 25–48, 2013a, Analytic Philosophy 54(3), 350–363, 2013b; Bolinger Nous, 51(3), 439–462, 2017), giving them a firmer conceptual basis. It supports a distinction between derogation and offensiveness of slurs that improves on the one proposed by Hom and May (Analytic Philosophy 54(3), 293–313 2013), and sheds light on puzzling borderline cases: the use of slurs by ignorant speakers and controversies surrounding the status of some words as potentially slurs.
Sarcopenia in cancer—a focus on elderly cancer patients
Authors: Marhold Maximilian , Topakian Thais , Unseld Matthias
Published: July 2020

Geriatric assessments, nutritional counseling and monitoring of muscle health before and during therapy are of high clinical significance in the management of elderly cancer patients. Criteria, data and cut-offs characterizing cancer-related geriatric sarcopenia are sparse and no consensus about definitions exists to date. We hence highlight a need for clinical trials focusing on sarcopenia in elderly cancer patients, based on its high prevalence and potential negative consequences on therapy outcomes, mortality, quality of life and physical mobility.
Soles of the Feet Meditation Intervention for People with Intellectual Disability and Problems with Anger and Aggression—a Feasibility Study
Authors: Roberts Judith L. , Williams Jonathan , Griffith Gemma Maria , Jones Robert S. P. , Hastings Richard P. , Crane Rebecca , Bryning Lucy , Hoare Zoe , Edwards Rhiannon Tudor
Published: July 2020

Objectives

Mindfulness-based programs (MBPs) such as the ‘Soles of the Feet’ (SoF) meditation have been shown to be effective for reducing aggressive behavior in people with intellectual disabilities (ID). Research on SoF has shown promising results in the USA but there is an absence of evidence for the approach in the United Kingdom (UK). The aim of this research was to adapt SoF for the UK and to assess the feasibility and cost of implementing the SoF intervention in a UK healthcare setting (UK SoF).

Methods

The UK SoF intervention consisted of a manualized protocol delivered over a six-week period by National Health Service staff to people with ID and their carers. This was a single-arm study with three measurement time points (baseline and 2- and 6-month follow-ups).

Results

The UK SoF intervention was shown to be feasible, with recruitment, retention, and adherence figures exceeding the minimum cut-off of 50%. Costs were £2426 per participant, or £2766 when including set-up costs such as therapist training. Although not a primary aim, data suggest that at 6-month follow-up, there was a reduction in scores for anger and aggressive behavior, and depression and anxiety showed improvement. In addition, people with ID were able to self-report on their health-related quality of life.

Conclusions

This study has indicated areas where the protocol could be further improved, and it is recommended that the research should move to a pilot trial before the development of a full randomized control trial.
Generation of a Hutchinson–Gilford progeria syndrome monkey model by base editing
Authors: Wang Fang , Zhang Weiqi , Yang Qiaoyan , Kang Yu , Fan Yanling , Wei Jingkuan , Liu Zunpeng , Dai Shaoxing , Li Hao , Li Zifan , Xu Lizhu , Chu Chu , Qu Jing , Si Chenyang , Ji Weizhi , Liu Guang-Hui , Long Chengzu , Niu Yuyu
Published: July 2020

Many human genetic diseases, including Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS), are caused by single point mutations. HGPS is a rare disorder that causes premature aging and is usually caused by a de novo point mutation in the LMNA gene. Base editors (BEs) composed of a cytidine deaminase fused to CRISPR/Cas9 nickase are highly efficient at inducing C to T base conversions in a programmable manner and can be used to generate animal disease models with single amino-acid substitutions. Here, we generated the first HGPS monkey model by delivering a BE mRNA and guide RNA (gRNA) targeting the LMNA gene via microinjection into monkey zygotes. Five out of six newborn monkeys carried the mutation specifically at the target site. HGPS monkeys expressed the toxic form of lamin A, progerin, and recapitulated the typical HGPS phenotypes including growth retardation, bone alterations, and vascular abnormalities. Thus, this monkey model genetically and clinically mimics HGPS in humans, demonstrating that the BE system can efficiently and accurately generate patient-specific disease models in non-human primates.
The Role of Nonmedical Therapeutic Approaches in the Rehabilitation of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
Authors: Boichat Charlotte , Llewellyn Alison , Grieve Sharon , McCabe Candida
Published: July 2020

Purpose of the Review

Nonmedical therapeutic approaches are fundamental to the management of of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) in order to promote the best outcome for patients. This review focuses on three key approaches underpinning CRPS rehabilitation, namely, physiotherapy and occupational therapy, psychological approaches and education and self-management.

Recent Findings

Recently published European standards outline the quality of therapeutic care that people with CRPS must receive. Early initiated therapy is essential to optimise outcomes, underpinned by patient education. Therapists should promote early movement of the affected limb and encourage re-engagement with usual activities as immobilisation is known to have negative outcomes. There is evidence to support the possible long-term benefit of graded motor imagery and mirror therapy. Psychological assessment should include identification of depression and post-traumatic stress disorder, as treatment of these conditions may improve the trajectory of CRPS. Novel therapies include neurocognitive approaches and those addressing spatial bias, both of which should provide a focus for future research.

There exists a broad range of nonmedical therapeutic approaches to rehabilitation for CPRS that are thought to be important. However, the evidence for their efficacy is limited. Further research using standardised outcomes would be helpful in developing targeted therapies for the future.