bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pad test for urinary incontinence diagnosis in adults: Systematic review of diagnostic test accuracy
Authors: Medeiros Araujo Camilla , de Morais Nívea Rosa , Sacomori Cinara , de Sousa Dantas Diego
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The pad test is an assessment tool for urinary incontinence (UI) severity classification and therapeutic response monitoring. However, the reliability and reproducibility of this test have been questioned.

Objectives

To summarize the evidence regarding the accuracy measures and reproducibility of different pad test protocols for assessing UI.

Methods

A systematic review of the diagnostic accuracy of this tool was performed (CRD42020219392). Eligibility criteria: Studies reporting data on the accuracy measures and reproducibility of the pad test when used for detecting UI in adult men and women. Data sources: MEDLINE, Science Direct, Cochrane, Web of Science, LILACS, and Pedro. Data extraction and synthesis: Two reviewers independently screened the articles, extracted the data, and evaluated the risk of bias (RoB) using the QUADAS‐2 tool.

Results

From 1048 studies, 18 studies were included. Eight of these reported accuracy data, and 12 reported reproducibility properties. A total of 1070 individuals were analyzed, whose mean age ranged from 20 to 90 years. The accuracy of the long‐duration protocols was generally moderate to high (sensitivity, 60%–93%; specificity, 60%–84%). The 1‐h protocols obtained higher accuracy values. The overall reproducibility was moderate to high (κ ≥ 0.66).

Limitations

The RoB was high and, due to different cutoff points adopted by studies, the bivariate model was not satisfied to perform a meta‐analysis.

Discussion

The 1‐h pad test was more accurate but less reproducible when compared to the long‐duration tests. Pad test results should be used with caution in clinical practice.
Experiences of urinary tract infection: A systematic review and meta‐ethnography
Authors: Izett‐Kay Matthew , Barker Karen L. , McNiven Abigail , Toye Francine
Published: February 2022

Aim

To understand the experience of urinary tract infection (UTI) by synthesizing primary qualitative research findings and developing a conceptual model that illustrates this experience.

Method

A systematic search of Medline, PsychInfo, Embase, and CINAHL from inception to August 2020 to find qualitative research exploring the experience of UTI. Qualitative evidence synthesis in the form of meta‐ethnography was undertaken. Findings are reported in keeping with eMERGe guidance.

Results

We included 16 qualitative studies in the synthesis of evidence, providing data from over 1038 participants aged 13–97 years. We developed nine themes: the impact of UTI on my whole body; impact on quality of life, activities, and the associated psychological toll; I know my body and my experience has taught me when I need to seek care; worry and the transition to medicalization; antibiotics are a valuable treatment approach; antibiotics are a last resort; being heard, seen, and cared for with dignity; self‐judgment; and the end of the road, a need for information and cure. These themes supported a conceptual model to illustrate the patient experience of UTI.

Conclusions

The conceptual model communicates the wide and varied symptoms of patients' UTI experiences and how they process this and make care decision based on past health experiences. For some, there appears to be a sense of hopelessness and frustration. This model may be used to highlight the need for improvements in diagnostic and treatment pathways. Future research to further understand the nuances of acute, recurrent, and persistent UTI is needed.
First application of a new seismo‐electric streamer for combined resistivity and seismic measurements along linearly extended earth structures
Authors: Arato A. , Vagnon F. , Comina C.
Published: February 2022

Linearly extended earth structures (e.g., river embankments and earth dams) require specific characterization tools to efficiently evaluate stability conditions along their relevant extensions. For this aim, geophysical surveys, both seismic and electric, are commonly used and considered complementary to geotechnical investigations. They provide imaging of parameter variations along the whole structures and not just local information in correspondence of boreholes. Improvements in these survey methodologies can further increase the application of these geophysical methods, eventually also as fast‐screening characterization tools. In this paper, the first application of a new seismo‐electric streamer, specifically designed for these aims, is presented. The developed streamer allows the contemporary acquisition of seismic and electric data while being dragged along the investigated structure. The technical solutions adopted for its construction are briefly described, and its application to the characterization of an embankment is presented. The results obtained with this new system are comparable with usually adopted investigation tools with the advantage of reduced survey time and increased efficiency.
Interfacial stress transfer factor and tensile strength of polymer halloysite nanotubes systems
Authors: Zare Yasser , Rhee Kyong Yop
Published: February 2022

Even though numerous papers have studied the mechanical properties of polymer halloysite nanotubes (HNT) nanocomposites by experimental characterizations, only a few researchers have simulated the characteristics of these materials. Moreover, the previous papers have disregarded the interphase features for the mechanical performance of HNT‐reinforced systems. In this article, two simple models are progressed for tensile strength of HNT‐based nanocomposites supposing HNT size and interphase section. The models' calculations are linked to the measured data and the characters of all factors in the strength are explained. In addition, the advanced models are used to define the “s” as interfacial stress transfer factor for HNT‐filled nanocomposites. The influences of various factors on the “s” are validated to approve the novel equation. All forecasts appropriately follow the measured data at various HNT loadings. “s,” interfacial shear strength, interphase thickness, and HNT length directly control the nanocomposite's strength, but HNT radius and polymer's strength have inverse effects. Additionally, the highest value of interfacial shear strength produces the maximum level of “s,” but HNT size negligibly manipulates the “s.”
Teachers' experiences with K‐12 students' mental health
Authors: Deaton Jennifer D. , Ohrt Jonathan H. , Linich Kathryn , Wymer Brooke , Toomey Mitchell , Lewis Olivia , Guest Jessie D. , Newton Therese
Published: February 2022

The purpose of this study was to explore teachers’ experiences of student mental health concerns (SMHC) in the classroom. In this consensual qualitative research (CQR) study, we explored 12 teachers’ experiences related to their SMHCs in the classroom. Five domains emerged from this CQR study: (1) Teachers' Responses to Student Mental Health Concerns, (2) Teachers’ Perceptions of Preparedness in Addressing Student Mental Health, (3) Teacher Identified Preparation Needs to Addressing Student Mental Health, (4) Divergent Experiences of Support for Student Mental Health, and (5) Student Mental Health Influences. Overall, teachers lack the training and support to address SMHC in the classroom, resulting in numerous attempts of trial and error. These participants emphasize the need for training in SMHCs commonly found in children and adolescents coupled with classroom strategies to support these students' needs.
The natural isoflavone Biochanin‐A synergizes 5‐fluorouracil anticancer activity in vitro and in vivo in Ehrlich solid‐phase carcinoma model
Authors: Mahmoud Mohamed , Abdollah Maha R. A. , Elsesy Mohamed E. , Abou El Ella Dalal A. , Zada Suher K. , Tolba Mai F.
Published: February 2022

Isoflavones are considered one of the most extensively studied plant‐derived phytoestrogenic compounds. Of these, Biochanin A (Bio‐A), a natural isoflavone abundant in cabbage, alfalfa, and red clover, has drawn a lot of attention. As reported in multiple studies, Bio‐A possesses a promising anticancer activity against estrogen receptor–positive (ER+)  breast cancer. The current study investigated the working hypothesis that Bio‐A could synergistically enhance the potency of 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU) in ER+ breast cancer. The hypothesis was tested both in vitro on hormone receptor–positive (MCF‐7) and triple‐negative breast cancer cells (MDA‐MB231). Additionally, in vivo studies were performed in the Ehrlich solid‐phase carcinoma mouse model. The in vitro cytotoxicity studies revealed that Bio‐A synergistically increased the potency of 5‐FU in both MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB231 cell lines. The synergistic effect of 5‐FU/Bio‐A combination was verified in vivo. The combination therapy (where 5‐FU was used at one fourth its full dose) led to a significant 75% reduction in tumor volume after two treatment cycles. This was in addition to producing a significant 2.1‐fold increase in tumor necrosis area% compared to mock‐treated control. In conclusion, the current study presents the first preclinical evidence for the potential merit of 5‐FU/Bio‐A combination for the treatment of ER+ breast cancer. The synergistic antitumor effect of Bio‐A/ 5‐FU combination can be, at least partly, attributed to Bio‐A‐mediated suppression of ER‐α/Akt axis and the augmentation of 5‐FU‐mediated proapoptotic effects. © 2022 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The nature compound dehydrocrenatidine exerts potent antihepatocellular carcinoma by destroying mitochondrial complexes in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Hou Zi‐Lin , Han Feng‐Ying , Lou Li‐Li , Zhao Wen‐Yu , Huang Xiao‐Xiao , Yao Guo‐Dong , Song Shao‐Jiang
Published: February 2022

Cumulative evidence indicates that mitochondria dysfunction plays an important role in tumour treatment. Given the limited efficacy and toxicity of current mitochondria‐targeted drugs, research into effective mitochondria‐targeted anticancer agents remains an irresistible general trend. In this study, it was found that dehydrocrenatidine (DEC), a β‐carbolin alkaloid isolated from Picrasma quassiodes, displays a promising growth inhibitory effect in vitro and in vivo by inducing apoptosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. Mechanistically, we provided that the possible target of DEC against HCC cells was determined by isobaric labels for relative and absolute quantification assay and validated them using further experiments. The results suggested that DEC can target and regulate the function of mitochondrial complexes I, III and IV, affecting oxidative phosphorylation and ultimately leading to mitochondrial dysfunction to exert its anti‐HCC effects. In addition, the combination of DEC and sorafenib showed a synergistic effect and was also associated with mitochondrial dysfunction. Importantly, DEC did not show significant toxicity in mice. This study provided a new insight into underlying mechanisms in DEC‐treated HCC cells, suggesting that DEC might be a mitochondrial targeting lead compound.
Mixed‐effects model for reliability assessment of dump trucks in heterogeneous operating environment: A case study
Authors: Allahkarami Zeynab , Sayadi Ahmad Reza , Ghodrati Behzad
Published: February 2022

Reliability of mining equipment is influenced by different operational and environmental risk factors. However, in practice, including all relevant factors in reliability analysis is not possible. Ignoring the risk factors leads to unobserved heterogeneity and biased estimation of reliability characteristics. This research proposes a semi‐parametric mixed‐effects model to assess the simultaneous effects of observed and unobserved risk factors on reliability. Furthermore, the model can be used for investigating inter‐cluster dependency and variability. To illustrate the model, a comprehensive case study is presented using data from three mines in Iran. The results show that the model can address the effect of unobserved risk factors. Moreover, it is found that the hazard of dump trucks is significantly associated with operator skill, season and the elevation difference between dumping and loading points.
Lenalidomide in cancer cachexia: a randomized trial of an anticancer drug applied for anti‐cachexia
Authors: Blum David , Hertler Caroline , Oberholzer Rolf , de Wolf‐Linder Susanne , Joerger Markus , Driessen Christoph , Strasser Florian
Published: February 2022

Background

Cancer cachexia (CC) impacts quality of life, physical function, anticancer treatment response, and survival. Inflammation is a prominent pathomechanism of CC. This small‐scale study sets out to investigate the immunomodulatory drug lenalidomide in inflammatory CC in a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial.

Methods

Patients with advanced solid malignancies, documented weight loss, no or unchanged anticancer treatment, and C‐reactive protein > 30 mg/L were included. In a 2:2:1 randomization, patients received either lenalidomide 25 mg once daily or C‐reactive protein‐guided dose, starting with 5 mg lenalidomide once daily or placebo once a day for 8 weeks. Dose adaption and safety were assessed twice a week. Treatment response was defined as an increase of lean body mass of more than 2% in a lower lumbar computed tomography and an increase in dynamometer‐assessed handgrip strength of 4 kg. Secondary endpoints included adverse events, C‐reactive protein response, nutritional intake, and symptoms.

Results

Of 24 eligible patients, 16 were included (25% female). At baseline, the mean age was 67 (range 51–88) years, and mean body weight was 64.7 kg (range 39.8–87.2 kg). Five were diagnosed with mesothelioma, two with non‐small‐cell lung cancer, two with renal cell carcinoma, two with neuroendocrine tumours, and five with other malignancies. Mean survival was 43 days. Eleven adverse events (four of which were severe) were recorded with a probable link to study participation. Nine patients completed the study. No participant showed a treatment response. C‐reactive protein‐guided dosing did not result in lower doses of lenalidomide. Lean body mass decreased less in the treatment groups. For the lenalidomide and placebo groups respectively, handgrip strength decreased by 2.3 vs. 5.5 kg, nutritional intake decreased by 249 vs. 32 kcal/day, and C‐reactive protein increased by 35 mg/dL vs. decreased by 17 mg/dL. The study was closed prematurely due to slow accrual and the need for concurrent anticancer treatments.

Conclusions

No treatment response on muscle mass and muscle strength was observed with lenalidomide. Because of several limiting factors, including low recruitment caused in part by an ambitious study design and concomitant anticancer treatment, this study did not generate adequate data to draw reliable conclusions.
Cavitary pulmonary lesions following emerging lophomoniasis: A novel perspective
Authors: Taheri Amirmasoud , Fakhar Mahdi , Sharifpour Ali , Banimostafavi Elham Sadat
Published: February 2022

In this article, we report a patient referred to the clinic of Imam Khomeini Hospital in Sari, Mazandaran, northern Iran, with a 3‐month complaint of chronic cough and weight loss. According to the chest computed tomography scan, a cavity was detected in the upper lobe of the patient's left lung. The patient had no history of smoking or underlying diseases that predisposed him to cavitation, including tuberculosis. Then, bronchoscopy was performed for the patient, and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was sent to the Iranian National Registry Center for lophomoniasis, and Lophomonas blattarum was detected in samples. Finally, the patient's symptoms were totally resolved by prescribing third‐daily metronidazole for 2 weeks.
SARS‐CoV‐2‐related and Covid‐19 vaccine‐induced thromboembolic events: A comparative review
Authors: Afshar Zeinab Mohseni , Barary Mohammad , Babazadeh Arefeh , Hosseinzadeh Rezvan , Alijanpour Amirmasoud , Miri Seyed Rouhollah , Sio Terence T. , Sullman Mark J. M. , Carson‐Chahhoud Kristin , Langer Florian , Ebrahimpour Soheil
Published: February 2022

Since the start of the pandemic, thrombotic events have been a well‐known and severe complication associated with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection. Nevertheless, the initiation of vaccination programs brought another rare yet highly fatal thrombotic event, vaccine‐induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopaenia, which has caused extensive debate regarding the safety of vaccines. This review defines the thromboembolic events following infection and vaccination, identifies their risk factors, describes their pathophysiology, and discusses their management, treatment, and prevention.
Noticeably Improved Visible Light Photocatalytic Activity of TiO2 Nanoparticles through co‐Doping of Activated Charcoal and Fe Towards Methylene Blue Degradation
Authors: Girija Ramanujam , Mary Stella , Balakrishnan G. , Mariappan Sivalingam M. , Hamdy Mohamed S. , Shkir Mohd.
Published: February 2022

Generating enormous oxygen radicals with metal oxides is a viable route to achieve efficient and eco‐friendly photocatalysis. To this aim, we co‐doped the TiO2 nanoparticles with activated charcoal (AC) and Fe (transition element) for the methylene blue (MB) dye degradation. The AC significantly enhances the adsorption of MB on the TiO2 surface, whereas the Fe dopants decrease its bandgap. To begin with, the modified TiO2 is prepared with chemical methods and the structural and morphological recordings are performed with XRD and FESEM, respectively. Then the elemental compositions and their oxidation states are probed with XPS analysis. The efficient charge carrier separation under white light illumination enhances the photocatalytic activity of modified TiO2 than its counterpart. The photocatalytic studies show that, 56 and 74 % of methylene blue dye degradation occurs with Fe doped TiO2 and AC doped TiO2 respectively. Interestingly, a maximum catalytic efficiency of 98 % is obtained for the Fe, AC co‐doped TiO2 samples in 90 min, and we provide a novel strategy to convert the large bandgap TiO2 into visible light photocatalyst.
High‐Efficiency Capture of Cells by Softening Cell Membrane
Authors: Ming Ruiqi , Jiang Ye , Fan Jiaqi , An Chunchun , Li Jinqi , Chen Tongsheng , Li Xinlei
Published: February 2022

The capture of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) by nanostructured substrate surface is a useful method for early diagnosis of cancer. At present, most methods used to improve the cell capture efficiency are based on changing substrate surface properties. However, there are still some gaps between these methods and practical applications. Here, a method is presented for improving cell capture efficiency from a different perspective, that is, changing the properties of the cells. Concretely, the mechanical properties of the cell membrane are changed by adding Cytochalasin D to soften the cell membrane. Furthermore, a corresponding theoretical model is proposed to explain the experimental results. It is found that cell softening can reduce the resistance of cell adhesion, which makes the adhesion ability stronger. The high‐efficiency capture of cells by softening the cell membrane provides a potential method to improve the detection performance of CTCs.
Gamma‐induction in frontotemporal dementia (GIFTeD) randomized placebo‐controlled trial: Rationale, noninvasive brain stimulation protocol, and study design
Authors: Assogna Martina , Sprugnoli Giulia , Press Daniel , Dickerson Brad , Macone Joanna , Bonnì Sonia , Borghi Ilaria , Connor Ann , Hoffman Megan , Grover Nainika , Wong Bonnie , Shen Changyu , Martorana Alessandro , O'Reilly Molly , Ruffini Giulio , El Fakhri Georges , Koch Giacomo , Santarnecchi Emiliano
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a neurodegenerative disorder for which there is no effective pharmacological treatment. Recently, interneuron activity responsible for fast oscillatory brain activity has been found to be impaired in a mouse model of FTD with consequent cognitive and behavioral alterations. In this study, we aim to investigate the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of a novel promising therapeutic intervention for FTD based on 40 Hz transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS), a form of non‐invasive brain stimulation thought to engage neural activity in a frequency‐specific manner and thus suited to restore altered brain oscillatory patterns.

Methods

This is a multi‐site, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial on 50 patients with a diagnosis of behavioral variant FTD (bvFTD). Participants will be randomized to undergo either 30 days of 1‐hour daily tACS or Sham (placebo) tACS. The outcomes will be assessed at baseline, right after the intervention and at a 3‐ to 6‐months follow‐up. The primary outcome measures are represented by the safety and feasibility of tACS administration, which will be assessed considering the nature, frequency, and severity of adverse events as well as attrition rate, respectively. To assess secondary outcomes, participants will undergo extensive neuropsychological and behavioral assessments and fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)–positron emission tomography (PET) scans to evaluate changes in brain metabolism, functional and structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), resting and evoked electroencephalography, as well as blood biomarkers to measure changes in neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory markers.

Results

The trial started in October 2020 and will end in October 2023. Study protocols have been approved by the local institutional review board (IRB) at each data‐collection site.

Discussion

This study will evaluate the safety and tolerability of 40 Hz tACS in bvFTD patients and its efficacy on gamma oscillatory activity, cognitive function, and brain glucose hypometabolism.
Characterization of Listeria monocytogenes isolated from wildlife in central New York
Authors: Chen Tong , Orsi Renato H. , Chen Ruixi , Gunderson Maureen , Roof Sherry , Wiedmann Martin , Childs‐Sanford Sara E. , Cummings Kevin J.
Published: February 2022

Background

Listeria monocytogenes (Lm) present in farming soil and food‐processing facilities threatens food safety, but little is known about the carriage of Lm by wildlife.

Objectives

We estimated the prevalence of faecal Lm shedding among wildlife admitted to a veterinary medical teaching hospital in central New York and characterized a subset of the Lm isolates.

Methods

Wildlife samples were collected between May 2018 and December 2019. We characterized the Lm isolates by assessing the growth at three temperatures approximating the body temperatures of reptiles (25°C), mammals (37°C), and birds (42°C) and identifying genotypic characteristics related to transmission and virulence.

Results

The apparent prevalence of faecal Lm shedding was 5.6% [18/324; 95% confidence interval (CI), 3.3%–8.6%]. Among 13 isolates that represented two lineages and 11 clonal complexes, three and five isolates were grouped into the same SNP clusters with human clinical isolates and environmental isolates, respectively. However, specific SNP difference data showed that Lm from wildlife was generally not closely related (>22 SNP differences) to Lm from human clinical sources and the food‐processing environment. While the stress response locus SSI‐2 was absent, SSI‐1 was found in four isolates. Virulence genes prfA, plcA, hly, mpl, actA, plcB, inlA, inlB, inlC, inlE, inlH, inlJ, and inlK were present, without any premature stop codons, in all isolates. Virulence loci Listeria pathogenicity island 3 (LIPI‐3) and LIPI‐4, which have been linked to hypervirulence, and inlG were found in four, three, and seven isolates, respectively.

Conclusions

Wildlife represents a potential reservoir for genetically diverse and putatively hypervirulent Lm strains. No statistically significant association between growth parameters and hosts was observed. However, compared to lineage I isolates, lineage II isolates showed significantly (p < 0.05) faster growth at 25°C and significantly slower growth at 42°C, suggesting that wildlife Lm isolates that belong to lineages I and II differ in their ability to grow at 25°C and 42°C.
Introduction: Feminism as Method—Navigating Theory and Practice
Authors: Dupuis Constance , Harcourt Wendy , Gaybor Jacqueline , van den Berg Karijn
Published: February 2022

The editors set out what the book seeks to trouble and what we are troubled by when speaking about feminist methodologies. We highlight the commonalities and differences across the book showcasing the many methodologies feminism has inspired and shaped. We delve into the patterns we saw woven across the chapters and the major themes that emerge in the book. We reflect on what we learned, what surprised, and what delighted us, as well as the ways in which the creative tensions and the inevitable silences invited us to reflect on what we could not do, the queer art of failure that is also part of our feminist method.
Interconnected Experiences: Embodying Feminist Research with Social Movements
Authors: Flores Golfín Daniela , Rusansky Tamara , Zantvoort Fleur
Published: February 2022

This chapter presents three experiences of doing research with social movements using feminist methodologies. It explores challenges, ethics and possibilities of feminist research with Extinction Rebellion in the Netherlands, the Movement of People Affected by Dams in Brazil and the Abortion Rights Movement in Costa Rica. The chapter asks: What makes these methodologies “feminist”, and how do “feminist researchers” relate to feminist and socio-environmental movements differently? We explore what the role of feminist research and knowledge production is in contributing to social struggles, reflecting on the contradictions of activist and academic knowledge production. All of our engagements approached social movements as producers of situated knowledges and emphasise the importance of our embodied experiences as we actively align ourselves with these struggles.
A Fieldwork Story Told Through Knitting
Authors: Sjamsoe’oed Sadjad Mahardhika
Published: February 2022

During a multi-sited ethnographic research on responses towards the presence of refugees from abroad in Indonesia, I brought along my knitting needles and five colours of yarn. Knitting was an effective outlet to manage the emotions and anxieties of fieldwork. The chapter documents my fieldwork experiences through a knitting project that would use colours to “code” my feelings on a weekly basis. The chapter explores how arts and crafts are used as metaphors to capture the intuitive and emotional dimensions of academia that are often missing from research methodology teaching. The coloured yarns have now been knitted into a striped cloth “scarf” representing the emotional labour of doing research that is partial to fieldwork but often excluded from its retelling.
Epilogue: Learning, Unlearning, and Relearning
Authors: van den Berg Karijn , Dupuis Constance , Gaybor Jacqueline , Harcourt Wendy
Published: February 2022

The process of engaging with and learning from each other that culminated in this book has been a beautiful experiment in community building. We are grateful for the time and care that each contributor has put into this—beginning with shared laughter and good food in an idyllic setting in Bolsena, Italy, and continuing with the unhurried reading of and commenting on each other’s draft chapters. By way of bringing the collection to a close, we, the editors, offer a few reflections on how to do feminist research. We open up questions around: what it means to trouble and be troubled by; how to learn and unlearn together; and in what ways our methodologies take us beyond academic knowledge production.
Modular curves, the Tate-Shafarevich group and Gopakumar-Vafa invariants with discrete charges
Authors: Schimannek Thorsten
Published: February 2022

Abstract

We show that the stringy Kähler moduli space of a generic genus one curve of degreeN, forN≤ 5, is the Γ1(N) modular curveX1(N). This implies a correspondence between the cusps of the modular curves and certain large volume limits in the stringy Kähler moduli spaces of genus one fibered Calabi-Yau manifolds withN-sections. Using Higgs transitions in M-theory and F-theory as well as modular properties of the topological string partition function, we identify these large volume limits with elements of the Tate-Shafarevich group of the genus one fibration. Singular elements appear in the form of non-commutative resolutions with a torsional B-field at the singularity. The topological string amplitudes that arise at the various large volume limits are related by modular transformations. In particular, we find that the topological string partition function of a smooth genus one fibered Calabi-Yau threefold is transformed into that of a non-commutative resolution of the Jacobian by a Fricke involution. In the case of Calabi-Yau threefolds, we propose an expansion of the partition functions of a singular fibration and its non-commutative resolutions in terms of Gopakumar-Vafa invariants that are associated to BPS states with discrete charges. For genus one fibrations with 5-sections, this provides an enumerative interpretation for the partition functions that arise at certain irrational points of maximally unipotent monodromy.
Holographic description of SCFT5 compactifications
Authors: Legramandi Andrea , Nunez Carlos
Published: February 2022

Abstract

We present three infinite families of supersymmetric Type IIB backgrounds with AdS4, AdS3 and AdS2 factors, dual to SCFTs in 3, 2 and 1 space-time dimensions respectively. These field theories emerge at low energies, after a twisted compactification of a family of five dimensional $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 SCFTs on hyperbolic spaces. The holographic flows across dimensions are explicitly computed. We also discuss a family of SUSY breaking backgrounds, dual to a QCD-like quiver with massive (bi)fundamental matter. Some field theoretical observables are computed for these theories at the fixed points and along the flow.
Quadratic curvature corrections to stringy effective actions and the absence of de Sitter vacua
Authors: Cunillera Francesc , Emond William T. , Lehébel Antoine , Padilla Antonio
Published: February 2022

Abstract

We investigate the combined effect of fluxes and higher-order curvature corrections, in the form of the Gauss-Bonnet term, on the existence of de Sitter vacua in a heterotic string inspired framework, compactified on spheres and tori. We first gain some intuition on the effects of these corrections by studying a perturbative expansion in the small Gauss-Bonnet coupling. Then, for choices of potential closer to the string theory predictions, we show that the inclusion of quadratic curvature corrections actually reduces the parametric likelihood of de Sitter solutions.
Conformal manifolds and 3d mirrors of (Dn, Dm) theories
Authors: Carta Federico , Giacomelli Simone , Mekareeya Noppadol , Mininno Alessandro
Published: February 2022

Abstract

The Argyres-Douglas (AD) theories of type (Dn, Dm), realized by type IIB geometrical engineering on a single hypersurface singularity, are studied. We analyze their conformal manifolds and propose the 3d mirror theories of all theories in this class upon reduction on a circle. A subclass of the AD theories in question that admits marginal couplings is found to be SO or USp gaugings of certain Dp(SO(2N)) and Dp(USp(2N)) theories. For such theories, we develop a method to derive this weakly-coupled description from the Newton polygon associated to the singularity. We further find that the presence of crepant resolutions of the geometry is reflected in the presence of a (non-abelian) symplectic-type gauge node in the quiver description of the 3d mirror theory. The other important results include the 3d mirrors of all Dp(SO(2N)) theories, as well as certain properties of the Dp(USp(2N)) theories that admit Lagrangian descriptions.
The Role of Gut Microbiota in Gastrointestinal Tract Cancers
Authors: Grochowska Marta , Perlejewski Karol , Laskus Tomasz , Radkowski Marek
Published: February 2022

Disturbances in gastrointestinal (GI) microbiota could play a significant role in the development of GI cancers, but the underlying mechanisms remain largely unclear. While some bacteria seem to facilitate carcinogenesis, others appear to be protective. So far only one bacterium (Helicobacter pylori) has been classified by the International Agency for Cancer Research as carcinogenic in humans but many other are the subject of intense research. Most studies on the role of microbiota in GI tract oncogenesis focus on pancreatic and colorectal cancers with the following three species: Helicobacter pylori, Escherichia coli, and Porphyromonas gingivalis as likely causative factors. This review summarizes the role of bacteria in GI tract oncogenesis.
Mining the Vavilov wheat diversity panel for new sources of adult plant resistance to stripe rust
Authors: Jambuthenne Dilani T. , Riaz Adnan , Athiyannan Naveenkumar , Alahmad Samir , Ng Wei Ling , Ziems Laura , Afanasenko Olga , Periyannan Sambasivam K. , Aitken Elizabeth , Platz Greg , Godwin Ian , Voss-Fels Kai P. , Dinglasan Eric , Hickey Lee T.
Published: February 2022

Key message

Multi-year evaluation of the Vavilov wheat diversity panel identified new sources of adult plant resistance to stripe rust. Genome-wide association studies revealed the key genomic regions influencing resistance, including seven novel loci.

Wheat stripe rust (YR) caused by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst) poses a significant threat to global food security. Resistance genes commonly found in many wheat varieties have been rendered ineffective due to the rapid evolution of the pathogen. To identify novel sources of adult plant resistance (APR), 292 accessions from the N.I. Vavilov Institute of Plant Genetic Resources, Saint Petersburg, Russia, were screened for known APR genes (i.e. Yr18, Yr29, Yr46, Yr33, Yr39 and Yr59) using linked polymerase chain reaction (PCR) molecular markers. Accessions were evaluated against Pst (pathotype 134 E16 A + Yr17 + Yr27) at seedling and adult plant stages across multiple years (2014, 2015 and 2016) in Australia. Phenotypic analyses identified 132 lines that potentially carry novel sources of APR to YR. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) identified 68 significant marker–trait associations (P < 0.001) for YR resistance, representing 47 independent quantitative trait loci (QTL) regions. Fourteen genomic regions overlapped with previously reported Yr genes, including Yr29, Yr56, Yr5, Yr43, Yr57, Yr30, Yr46, Yr47, Yr35, Yr36, Yrxy1, Yr59, Yr52 and YrYL. In total, seven QTL (positioned on chromosomes 1D, 2A, 3A, 3D, 5D, 7B and 7D) did not collocate with previously reported genes or QTL, indicating the presence of promising novel resistance factors. Overall, the Vavilov diversity panel provides a rich source of new alleles which could be used to broaden the genetic bases of YR resistance in modern wheat varieties.
The Impact of Hospital Surgical Volume on Healthcare Utilization Outcomes After Pediatric Thyroidectomy
Authors: Chesover Alexander D. , Eskander Antoine , Griffiths Rebecca , Pasternak Jesse D. , Pole Jason D. , Wolter Nikolaus E. , Wasserman Jonathan D.
Published: February 2022

Background

A positive relationship between an individual surgeon's operative volume and clinical outcomes after pediatric and adult thyroidectomy is well‐established. The impact of a hospital's pediatric operative volume on surgical outcomes and healthcare utilization, however, are infrequently reported. We investigated associations between hospital volume and healthcare utilization outcomes following pediatric thyroidectomy in Canada's largest province, Ontario.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of administrative and health‐related population‐level data from 1993 to 2017. A cohort of 1908 pediatric (<18 years) index thyroidectomies was established. Hospital volume was defined per‐case as thyroidectomies performed in the preceding year. Healthcare utilization outcomes: length of stay (LOS), same day surgery (SDS), readmission, and emergency department (ED) visits were measured. Multivariate analysis adjusted for patient‐level, disease and hospital‐level co‐variates.

Results

Hospitals with the lowest volume of pediatric thyroidectomies, accounted for 30% of thyroidectomies province‐wide and performed 0–1 thyroidectomies/year. The highest‐volume hospitals performed 19–60 cases/year. LOS was 0.64 days longer in the highest, versus the lowest quartile. SDS was 83% less likely at the highest, versus the lowest quartile. Hospital volume was not associated with rate of readmission or ED visits. Increased ED visits were, however, associated with male sex, increased material deprivation, and rurality.

Conclusions

Increased hospital pediatric surgical volume was associated with increased LOS and lower likelihood of SDS. This may reflect patient complexity at such centers. In this cohort, low‐volume hospitals were not associated with poorer healthcare utilization outcomes. Further study of groups disproportionately accessing the ED post‐operatively may help direct resources to these populations.
The Femoral Vein as a Long‐Term Aorto‐Iliac Graft for Aortic Infection and Aortitis
Authors: Eilenberg W. , Klopf J. , Domenig C. M. , Klinger M. , Wolf F. , Gollackner B. , Nanobachvili J. , Neumayer C.
Published: February 2022

Background

Reconstruction of the aorto‐iliac segment with femoral vein (FV) as substitute for infected synthetic grafts or mycotic aneurysms constitutes the most sustainably convenient alternative. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long‐term outcome of up to 16 years of follow‐up, analysing the morphologic adaption of the FV with special emphasis on the distal and proximal anastomoses.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study of 22 patients with 109 computed tomography angiograms (CTAs) treated between August 2001 and January 2020 in case of aortic infection/aortitis. Morphologic changes like anastomotic dilatation/stenosis as well as changes of FV wall thickness were retrospectively analysed in pre‐ and postoperative CTAs.

Results

Elective procedure was done in 17/22 (77%) cases, and 5/22 (23%) patients required emergent surgery. The median follow‐up was 91.5 months (P25;P75 = 21;117). Cross‐sectional diameter of proximal (20.38 ± 3.77 vs 22.04 ± 3.97 mm, p = 0.007) and distal anastomoses (13.05 ± 4.23 vs 14.61 ± 5.19 mm, p = 0.05) increased significantly, as well as the proximal and distal anastomotic areas (3.36 ± 1.29 vs 4.32 ± 1.63 mm2, p = 0.04 and 0.99 ± 0.48 vs 1.25 ± 0.72 mm2, p = 0.023, respectively). Venous wall thickness was significantly reduced at the anastomotic site (1.74 ± 0.46 vs 1.24 ± 0.31 mm, p = 0.001). The upper thigh diameter did not differ before and after harvesting of the FV (161.6 ± 29.1 vs. 178.2 ± 23.3 mm, p = 0.326, respectively).

Conclusion

This long‐term CTA follow‐up study showed that the FV wall becomes thinner at the anastomotic site, and the anastomoses dilate with time without rupture. The FV is a durable conductor after replacement of the aorto‐iliac segment due to aortic infection. Further CTA studies from more centres are warranted to evaluate the risk of vein rupture.
Posterior to anterior malleolar extended lateral approach to the ankle (PAMELA): early results of a novel approach
Authors: Kummer Anne , Crevoisier Xavier
Published: February 2022

Introduction

In a previous cadaveric study, we described the Posterior to Anterior Malleolar Extended Lateral Approach (PAMELA) to address complex ankle fractures. It was demonstrated to provide optimal exposure of the posterior and lateral malleoli, and of the anterolateral portion of the ankle through a single incision. The aim of this study is to report the clinical results of this novel approach.

Methods

Between January 2019 and January 2021, all patients presenting with a complex ankle fracture in our institution were assessed by CT scan. Indication to use the PAMELA was determined by the fracture pattern, according to our previous guidelines, including combination of complex lateral and displaced posterior malleolar fractures, associated in most cases with anterolateral fracture avulsion. The approach was performed according to the steps previously described. Intraoperative evaluation included quality of exposure, ease of performing the osteosynthesis, and any complication encountered. The postoperative course was assessed for wound healing, quality of reduction, and the occurrence of any complication.

Results

The PAMELA was performed in 20 patients (aged 17–73). The most common combination of fractures was a comminuted lateral malleolus fracture associated with a displaced fracture of the posterior malleolus and a Wagstaffe-Le Fort or Chaput avulsion. We encountered no intraoperative complication. X-rays showed anatomical reduction in all cases. Postoperative complications included three delayed wound healing resolved with local treatment and one sural nerve traction injury.

Conclusions

The main potential concern regarding this novel approach was the healing of the flap. Our results reject this concern and are in line with wound healing complications reported following surgical treatment of ankle fractures. This study confirms the safe in vivo feasibility of the PAMELA and opens a new perspective in the optimal management of complex fractures of the ankle. A larger prospective clinical study is ongoing in our institution.
The effects of hypnotherapy compared to cognitive behavioral therapy in depression: a NIRS-study using an emotional gait paradigm
Authors: Haipt Alina , Rosenbaum David , Fuhr Kristina , Giese Martin , Batra Anil , Ehlis Ann-Christine
Published: February 2022

Hypnotherapy (HT) is a promising approach to treating depression, but so far, no data are available on the neuronal mechanisms of functional reorganization after HT for depressed patients. Here, 75 patients with mild to moderate depression, who received either HT or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), were measured before and after therapy using functional near-infrared spectroscopy. We investigated the patients’ cerebral activation during an emotional human gait paradigm. Further, rumination was included as predictor. Our results showed a decrease of functional connectivity (FC) between two regions that are crucial to emotional processing, the Extrastriate Body Area (EBA) and the Superior Temporal Sulcus (STS). This FC decrease was traced back to an activation change throughout therapy in the right STS, not the EBA and was only found in the HT group, depending on rumination: less ruminating HT patients showed a decrease in right STS activation, while highly ruminating patients showed an increase. We carefully propose that this activation change is due to the promotion of emotional experiences during HT, while in CBT a focus lay on activating behavior and changing negative cognitions. HT seemed to have had differential effects on the patients, depending on their rumination style: The increase of right STS activation in highly ruminating patients might mirror the improvement of impaired emotional processing, whilst the decrease of activation in low ruminating patients might reflect a dismissal of an over-compensation, associated with a hyperactivity before therapy. We conclude that HT affects emotional processing and this effect is moderated by rumination.
Sequence representations after action-imagery practice of one-finger movements are effector-independent
Authors: Dahm Stephan Frederic , Weigelt Matthias , Rieger Martina
Published: February 2022

Action-imagery practice (AIP) is often less effective than action-execution practice (AEP). We investigated whether this is due to a different time course of learning of different types of sequence representations in AIP and AEP. Participants learned to sequentially move with one finger to ten targets, which were visible the whole time. All six sessions started with a test. In the first four sessions, participants performed AIP, AEP, or control-practice (CP). Tests involved the practice sequence, a mirror sequence, and a different sequence, which were performed both with the practice hand and the other (transfer) hand. In AIP and AEP, movement times (MTs) in both hands were significantly shorter in the practice sequence than in the other sequences, indicating sequence-specific learning. In the transfer hand, this indicates effector-independent visual-spatial representations. The time course of the acquisition of effector-independent visual-spatial representations did not significantly differ between AEP and AIP. In AEP (but not in AIP), MTs in the practice sequence were significantly shorter in the practice hand than in the transfer hand, indicating effector-dependent representations. In conclusion, effector-dependent representations were not acquired after extensive AIP, which may be due to the lack of actual feedback. Therefore, AIP may replace AEP to acquire effector-independent visual-spatial representations, but not to acquire effector-dependent representations.
Mapping audiovisual content providers and resources in Greece
Authors: Malliari Afrodite , Nitsos Ilias , Zapounidou Sofia , Doropoulos Stavros
Published: February 2022

In Greece, there are many audiovisual resources available on the Internet that interest scientists and the general public. Although freely available, finding such resources often becomes a challenging task, because they are hosted on scattered websites and in different types/formats. These websites usually offer limited search options; at the same time, there is no aggregation service for audiovisual resources, nor a national registry for such content. To meet this need, the Open AudioVisual Archives project was launched and the first step in its development is to create a dataset with open access audiovisual material. The current research creates such a dataset by applying specific selection criteria in terms of copyright and content, form/use and process/technical characteristics. The results reported in this paper show that libraries, archives, museums, universities, mass media organizations, governmental and non-governmental organizations are the main types of providers, but the vast majority of resources are open courses offered by universities under the “Creative Commons” license. Providers have significant differences in terms of their collection management capabilities. Most of them do not own any kind of publishing infrastructure and use commercial streaming services, such as YouTube. In terms of metadata policy, most of the providers use application profiles instead of international metadata schemas.
Supporting safe metamodel evolution with edelta
Authors: Bettini Lorenzo , Di Ruscio Davide , Iovino Ludovico , Pierantonio Alfonso
Published: February 2022

Metamodels play a crucial role in any model-based application. They underpin the definition of models and tools, and the development of model management operations, including model transformations and analysis. Like any software artifacts, metamodels are subject to evolution to improve their quality or implement unforeseen requirements. Metamodels can be defined in terms of existing ones to increase the separation of concerns and foster reuse. However, the induced coupling can give additional evolution complexity, and dedicated support is needed to avoid breaking metamodels defined in terms of those being changed. This paper presents a tool-supported approach that can automatically analyze the available metamodels and alert modelers in case of change operations that can give place to invalid situations like dangling references. The approach has been implemented in the Edelta development environment and successfully applied to metamodels retrieved from a publicly available Ecore models dataset.