bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced DOX loading in star‐like benzyl functionalized polycaprolactone micelles
Authors: Karmegam Vasanthy , Kuruppu Sandun S. , Udamulle Gedara Chinthaka M. , Biewer Michael C. , Stefan Mihaela C.
Published: October 2021

The self‐assembly of functionalized polycaprolactone amphiphilic diblock copolymers is explored for carrier‐mediated doxorubicin delivery for cancer treatment. In this report, functionalized polycaprolactone‐based amphiphilic block copolymers with controlled branching architecture are investigated. Star‐like copolymers, namely 4‐arm and 6‐arm poly(γ‐benzyloxy‐ε‐caprolactone)‐b‐poly{γ‐2‐[2‐(2‐methoxyethoxy)ethoxy]ethoxy‐ε‐caprolactone} (PBCL‐b‐PMEEECL) were synthesized by living ring‐opening block copolymerization (ROP) of γ‐(2‐benzyloxy)‐ε‐caprolactone and γ‐2‐[2‐(2‐methoxyethoxy)ethoxy]ethoxy‐ε‐caprolactone using multifunctional initiators. A systematic investigation of the effect of branching points on polymer properties and micellar carrier properties was carried out. The star‐like PBCL‐b‐PMEEECL micelles displayed better thermodynamic stability, size reduction, and enhanced doxorubicin encapsulation than the linear PBCL‐b‐PMEEECL. Furthermore, the π–π stacking between the benzyl group of the hydrophobic PBCL core and the doxorubicin, the anti‐cancer drug, also increases the stability and loading capacity of the micelles. The star‐polymers display tunable thermoresponsivity in the range of 40–42°C. When the DOX‐loaded micelles are accumulated in the tumor, the shell of the polymeric micelles dehydrates upon heating (at a temperature above its LCST), causing disassembling of the micelles and releasing of DOX. Compared with DOX‐loaded linear and 4‐arm micelles, DOX‐loaded 6‐arm micelles exhibited higher in vitro anti‐tumor activity. Thus, the 6‐arm benzyl substituted polycaprolactone‐based micellar systems are promising candidates for drug delivery applications.
Spatial variation of elderly population and its dynamics in Turkey
Authors: Senbil Metin , Yetiskul Emine
Published: October 2021

As the world population is getting older, care for elderly and procurement to their special needs gains importance for both national and local governments. Therefore, distribution of elderly population and their (residential) mobility behaviours gains importance to improve policies coupled in this respect. However, although demographic processes can easily be monitored and projected over time for a country, estimating distribution of certain population cohorts over space (elderly population in our case) entails difficulties. Indeed, elderly population does not show a uniform distribution in space. This study investigates spatial variation and dynamics of elderly population in Turkey, where elderly population is percolating unevenly in space. We devise two complementary ANCOVA models and a structural equations model, which suggest a disproportionate and growing share of elderly in small, inner and coastal areas, especially sun‐belt coastal districts. We conclude the study with prospective policies for elderly for central and local governments. Our findings suggest inclusive and attentive policies geared to spatial reflections of demographic processes. In particular, we favour policies focused on improved services for the elderly and spatial planning considering special populations groups, one of which is elderly population.
More accuracy with less precision
Authors: Lang Simon T. K. , Dawson Andrew , Diamantakis Michail , Dueben Peter , Hatfield Samuel , Leutbecher Martin , Palmer Tim , Prates Fernando , Roberts Christopher D. , Sandu Irina , Wedi Nils
Published: October 2021

Reducing the numerical precision of the forecast model of the Integrated Forecasting System (IFS) of the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) from double to single precision results in significant computational savings without negatively affecting forecast accuracy. The computational savings allow to increase the vertical resolution of the operational ensemble forecasts from 91 to 137 levels earlier than anticipated and before the next upgrade of ECMWF's high‐performance computing facility. This upgrade to 137 levels harmonises the vertical resolution of the medium‐range deterministic forecasts and the medium‐range and extended‐range ensemble forecasts. Increasing the vertical resolution of the ensemble forecasts substantially improves forecast skill for all lead times as well as the mean of the model climate. ECMWF's ensemble and deterministic forecasts will run operationally at single precision from IFS model cycle 47R2 onwards.
Lichenoid cutaneous skin eruption and associated systemic inflammatory response following Pfizer‐BioNTech mRNA COVID‐19 vaccine administration
Authors: Onn Pei‐Yee , Chang Catherina L.
Published: October 2021

The global effects of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) have driven unprecedented rapid development and mass deployment of vaccinations against the novel coronavirus. However, the short‐ and long‐term adverse reactions following COVID‐19 vaccinations are still under investigation as insufficient time has passed to fully explore these. The Pfizer‐BioNTech COVID‐19 mRNA vaccine has thus far shown a favourable safety profile in phase I–III studies. Although infrequent cases of generalized cutaneous reactions and systemic inflammatory response have been reported following other mRNA vaccines, these have not been reported following the Pfizer‐BioNTech vaccine. We report a case of generalized lichenoid skin eruptions and systemic inflammatory response occurring together following the first dose of the Pfizer‐BioNTech vaccine. Our case report adds to an accumulating body of literature connecting autoimmunity with the pathophysiology of the novel coronavirus disease.
A case of massive saddle pulmonary embolism and benign tracheal stenosis in a patient with COVID‐19 infection
Authors: Nehme Ralph , Fleifel Mohamad , Abou Khalil Melissa , Al Dailaty Ali
Published: October 2021

Since December 2019, the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) outbreak that started in Wuhan, China, has become a global pandemic affecting millions of people around the globe. These patients are prone to a number of complications either related to their disease or to the different treatment modalities. Pulmonary embolism (PE) and benign post‐intubation tracheal stenosis (BTS) are among these complications. In this study, we report the case of a patient with a recent COVID‐19 infection that got complicated by a massive PE as well as a BTS.
An Electromagnetic Fiber Acoustic Transducer with Dual Modes of Loudspeaker and Microphone
Authors: Zou Junyi , Ling Feiyao , Shi Xiang , Xu Kailiang , Wu Huiyang , Chen Peining , Zhang Bo , Ta Dean , Peng Huisheng
Published: October 2021

A flexible fiber acoustic transducer is created by designing a parallel configuration of a Rubidium iron boron (NdFeB) magnet fiber and an aluminum fiber. The former provides a stable magnet field, while the latter vibrates to phonate upon applying alternating current or generates alternating voltage in the sound field. This single device exhibits dual functions as a loudspeaker or a microphone. As a fiber loudspeaker, it can generate 40–60 dB of audible (20 Hz−20 kHz) and directional sounds which can be used for blind navigation and controllable sound field distribution. The fiber acoustic transducer functions as a microphone when external sound waves force the aluminum fiber to vibrate. After the fiber microphones are woven into several different positions of a piece of clothing, the sound source can be accurately located based on the time differences reaching different microphones. This wearable fiber acoustic transducer is promising to be used to quickly search people in trouble during emergency rescue activities such as earthquakes or fires.
Core–Shell CoSe2/WSe2 Heterostructures@Carbon in Porous Carbon Nanosheets as Advanced Anode for Sodium Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Shengqiang , Sun Lili , Yu Le , Zhai Gaohong , Li Lixiang , Liu Xiaojie , Wang Hui
Published: October 2021

Heterojunction, with the advantage of fast charge transfer dynamics, is considered to be an effective strategy to address the low capacity and poor rate capability of anode materials for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs). As well, carbonaceous materials, as a crucial additive, can effectively ameliorate the ion/electron conductivity of integrated composites, realizing the fast ion transport and charge transfer. Here, motivated by the enhancement effect of carbon and heterojunction on conductivity, it is proposed that the CoSe2/WSe2 heterojunction as inner core is coated by carbon outer shell and uniformly embedded in porous carbon nanosheets (denoted as CoSe2/WSe2@C/CNs), which is used as anode material for SIBs. Combining with density functional theoretical calculations, it is confirmed that the structure of heterojunction can introduce built‐in electric‐field, which can accelerate the transportation of Na+ and improve the conductivity of electrons. Moreover, the introduction of porous carbon nanosheets (CNs) can provide a channel for the transportation of Na+ and avoid the volume expansion during Na+ insertion and extraction process. As it is expected, CoSe2/WSe2@C/CNs anode displays ultrastable specific capacity of 501.9 mA h g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 over 200 cycles, and ultrahigh rate capacity of 625 mA h g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 after 100 cycles.
One‐Step Prepared Water‐Resistant Organic–Inorganic‐Hybrid Perovskite Quantum Dots with Zn–Oxygen Vacancies for Attempts at Nitrogen Fixation
Authors: Gao Yixuan , Su Xiao , Zhang Jiangwei , Tan Hongwei , Sun Jianghui , Ouyang Jin , Na Na
Published: October 2021

Applying organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite quantum dots (PQDs) to photocatalytic nitrogen fixation is hindered long‐term by the inherent instability in water and tedious preparations. Here, to realize PQD‐catalyzed photocatalytic N2 reduction reaction (NRR), water‐resistant PQDs are simply prepared through one‐step electrospray synthesis in microseconds. During the fast electrospray, PQDs of Zn/PbO‐doped methylammonium lead bromide (Zn/PbO/PC–Zn/MAPbBr3, MA: CH3NH3) are prepared and part‐encapsulated by polycarbonate. The synthesis maintains good water resistance, whose restriction on charge transport is overcome skillfully. Simultaneously, substitution of Zn with Pb on water‐resistant surface is also achieved, which fabricates new Zn–oxygen vacancies (Zn‐OVs) with Zn/PbO–Zn/MAPbBr3 type I heterojunction. This facilitates efficient electron transfer from internal heterojunction interface of Zn/MAPbBr3 PQDs to the surface of Zn/PbO. Demonstrated by theoretical calculations, Zn‐OVs promote chemisorption and polarization of N2. In addition, s‐electrons in exposed Zn become active due to changes of electron filling of Zn orbitals under OVs’ co‐doping. Thus, photocatalytic N2 reduction reaction catalyzed by organic–inorganic hybrid PQDs is first achieved in aqueous phase without sacrificial agents being added. This initiates possibilities for photocatalytic applications of organic–inorganic hybrid PQDs in aqueous phase.
A Vertical Silicon Nanowire Based Single Transistor Neuron with Excitatory, Inhibitory, and Myelination Functions for Highly Scalable Neuromorphic Hardware
Authors: Han Joon‐Kyu , Oh Jungyeop , Yu Ji‐Man , Choi Sung‐Yool , Choi Yang‐Kyu
Published: October 2021

A single transistor neuron (1T‐neuron) is demonstrated by using a vertically protruded nanowire from an 8 in. silicon (Si) wafer. The 1T‐neuron adopts a gate‐all‐around structure to completely surround the Si nanowire (Si‐NW) to make a floating body and allow aggressive downscaling. The Si‐NW is composed of an n+drain at the top, n+source at the bottom, and p‐type floating body at the middle, which are self‐aligned vertically. Thus, it occupies a small footprint area. The gate controls an excitatory/inhibitory function. In addition, myelination of a biological neuron that changes membrane capacitance is mimicked by an inherently asymmetric source/drain structure. Two spiking frequencies at the same input current are controlled by whether the neuron is myelinated or unmyelinated. Using the vertical 1T‐neuron, pattern recognition is demonstrated with both measurements and semiempirical circuit simulations. Furthermore, handwritten numbers in the MNIST database are recognized with accuracy of 93% by software‐based simulations. Applicability of the vertical 1T‐neuron to various neural networks is verified, including a single‐layer perceptron, multilayer perceptron, and spiking neural network.
Micrometer‐Sized, Dual‐Conductive MoO2/β‐MoO3‐x Mosaics for High Volumetric Capacity Li/Na‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Ruizhe , Dong Wujie , Pan Jun , Huang Fuqiang
Published: October 2021

The transition metal oxides (TMOs) with high volumetric capacities are promising anodes for the future electronics, however, they usually suffer from severe capacity decay and poor rate capability. Carbon hybridization and nanosizing can resolve these challenges, yet these significantly compromise the volumetric capacity. Herein, both high capacity and long cycling stability are simultaneously achieved in the micrometer‐sized Mo‐based oxide particles by designing the dual conductive MoO2/β‐MoO3‐x mosaics. The rational combination of the highly electronically conductive MoO2 with the highly ionically conductive and open‐structured β‐MoO3 achieves a promising volumetric capacity of 1742 mAh cm−3, which is four times higher than the commercial graphite. Simultaneously, both stable cycling performance (87% retention after 500 cycles) and excellent rate capability (outperformed a majority of the MoO2‐based anodes reported in literature) are obtained in the lithium‐ion batteries. For the sodium‐ion batteries, the composite exhibits three times higher Na+ storage than pure MoO2. Moreover, the decisive role of the bond energy on the electrochemical performance of TMOs is also identified. This study may open up new perspectives for choosing and designing the TMO anodes with a high volumetric capacity for the practical applications.
Phase‐Controllable Growth NixPy Modified CdS@Ni3S2 Electrodes for Efficient Electrocatalytic and Enhanced Photoassisted Electrocatalytic Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Dong Qianwen , Li Mingli , Sun Mingshuang , Si Fangyuan , Gao Qiongzhi , Cai Xin , Xu Yuehua , Yuan Teng , Zhang Shengsen , Peng Feng , Fang Yueping , Yang Siyuan
Published: October 2021

The rational design and construction of cost‐effective nickel‐based phosphide or sulfide (photo)electrocatalysts for hydrogen production from water splitting has sparked a huge investigation surge in recent years. Whereas, nickel phosphides (NixPy) possess more than ten stoichiometric compositions with different crystalline. Constructing NixPy with well crystalline and revealing their intrinsic catalytic mechanism at atomic/molecular levels remains a great challenge. Herein, an easy‐to‐follow phase‐controllable phosphating strategy is first proposed to prepare well crystalline NixPy (Ni3P and Ni12P5) modified CdS@Ni3S2 heterojunction electrocatalysts. It is found that Ni3P modified CdS@Ni3S2 (CdS@Ni3S2/Ni3P) exhibits remarkable stability and bifunctional electrocatalytic activities in both hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Density functional theory results suggest that P–Ni sites and P sites in CdS@Ni3S2/Ni3P, respectively, serve as OER and HER active sites during electrocatalytic water splitting processes. Moreover, benefiting from the advantageous photocatalyst@electrocatalyst core@shell structure, CdS@Ni3S2/Ni3P delivers an advantaged photoassisted electrocatalytic water splitting property. The champion electrical to hydrogen and solar to hydrogen energy conversion efficiencies of CdS@Ni3S2/Ni3P, respectively, reach 93.35% and 4.65%. This work will provide a general guidance for synergistically using solar energy and electric energy for large‐scale H2 production from water splitting.
Ultrasound characteristics, serum biochemistry and outcome of ectopic pregnancies presenting during COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Kyriacou C. , Cooper N. , Robinson E. , Parker N. , Barcroft J. , Kundu S. , Letchworth P. , Sur S. , Gould D. , Stalder C. , Bourne T.
Published: October 2021

Objective

To describe and compare the characteristics of ectopic pregnancies (EPs) in the year prior to vs during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of women diagnosed with an EP on transvaginal sonography conducted at a center in London, UK, providing early‐pregnancy assessment, between 1 January 2019 and 31 December 2020. Women were identified via the Astraia ultrasound reporting system using coded and non‐coded outcomes of EP or pregnancy outside the uterine cavity. Data related to predefined outcomes were collected using Astraia and Cerner electronic reporting systems. Main outcome measures included clinical, ultrasound and biochemical features of EP, in addition to reported complications and management.

Results

There were 22 683 consultations over the 2‐year period. Following consultation, a similar number and proportion of EPs were diagnosed in 2019 (141/12 657 (1%)) and 2020 (134/10 026 (1%)). Both cohorts were comparable in age, ethnicity, weight and method of conception. Gestational age at the first transvaginal sonography scan and at diagnosis were similar, and no difference in location, size or morphology of EP was found between the two cohorts. Serum human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels at the time of EP diagnosis were higher in 2020 than in 2019 (1005 IU/L vs 665 IU/L; P = 0.03). The proportions of women according to type of final EP management were similar, but the rate of failed first‐line management was higher during vs before the pandemic (16% vs 6%; P = 0.01). The rates of blood detected in the pelvis (hemoperitoneum) on ultrasound (23% vs 26%; P = 0.58) and of ruptured EP confirmed surgically (9% vs 3%; P = 0.07) were similar in 2019 vs 2020.

Conclusions

No difference was observed in the location, size, morphology or gestational age at the first ultrasound examination or at diagnosis of EP between women diagnosed before vs during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Complication rates and final management strategy were also unchanged. However, hCG levels and the failure rate of first‐line conservative management measures were higher during the pandemic. Our findings suggest that women continued to access appropriate care for EP during the COVID‐19 pandemic, with no evidence of diagnostic delay or an increase in adverse outcome in our population. © 2021 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
The Constant Search for New Sustainable Funding Sources for Public Universities
Authors: Mathieson Peter William
Published: October 2021

Although publicly-funded universities receive financial support from governments for teaching, research and infrastructure, they require additional sources of income in order to survive and thrive, and particularly to allow innovation and strategic development. It is amongst the responsibilities of the university leadership to ensure financial viability and to seek novel sources of funding, tasks for which they are not always well-trained. In this chapter, the author draws on his experience as a university leader on two continents to illustrate the possibilities as well as some of the hurdles and challenges. The chapter includes sections on philanthropy; alumni relations; industry/business relationships; commercialisation of research; and digital technologies & future horizons. Universities need to diversify their income streams, invest to succeed and get better at demonstrating their societal worth. Education is one of the most powerful tools of social and economic mobility. The world needs us to succeed!
Arizona State University: A Learning Enterprise Supporting P-12 Education in the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Basile Carole G.
Published: October 2021

Although no one was fully prepared for a pandemic in 2020, Arizona State University was ready and able to respond. As the COVID-19 virus began to spread across the world, ASU began moving university students to remote learning environments. As K-12 schools began to close across the nation, ASU disseminated elementary- and secondary-level educational resources and created hybrid learning opportunities for students of all ages.

Three distinct categories of action defined the university’s response to COVID-19:

Direct provision of education to P-12 learners

Provision of human and intellectual capital (people and ideas) to P-12 schools

Curation and provision of free educational resources to learners, families, and schools

Many of the existing long-term commitments being pursued by various ASU units had helped the university develop capabilities that could immediately be applied to help elementary and secondary learners and the education professionals serving them during the pandemic. Some of the immediate responses accelerated the university’s efforts to pursue long-term actions that could help both schools and P-12 students and families integrate remote learning and instruction into effective education models.

ASU responded rapidly to the educational challenges COVID-19 presented because the university had a high degree of institutional readiness in at least three key areas of operational excellence and organizational culture:

A core set of preexisting commitments and functional capabilities in the area of technology-enhanced instruction

Strong existing partnerships with P-12 schools

An institutional vision to universal learning that demands a university be ready and able to deliver instruction to all learners across many modalities

This chapter only represents a moment in time, the beginning of the pandemic, and the actions taken to support and ameliorate consequences. Since this time, much has happened.
Case Study on Distance Learning for K-12 Education in Japan: The Nagasaki-Takaoka Model
Authors: Umejima Masaki , Wong Cherry H. Y. , Kokuryo Jiro , Murai Jun , Farber David , Okawa Keiko , Suzuki Kan
Published: October 2021

A pre-existing partnership between the Japanese Government and Keio University paved the way for K-12 education to embrace distance learning. The university has been engaging in the revision of educational ICT policies in Japan for many years. In Japan, universities have been accumulating knowledge in distance learning practices since the emergence of the Internet, though earlier educational ICT policy required the ICT system in K-12 education to depend on dedicated Internet lines. In December 2019, the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT) announced a new ICT policy to allow K-12 education to launch distance learning classes via public cloud on the Internet. The university’s experience with running distance learning, bundled with the stipulations of the new educational ICT policy, enabled K-12 education to carry out distance learning. New subjects can be taught daily, and continuity of education is ensured in disaster situations, such as the Covid-19 pandemic. The research team at Keio University built the “Nagasaki-Takaoka Model” as a reference model with the added aim of ensuring data security and trust in the open network. In December 2020, Takaoka City successfully deployed the “Nagasaki-Takaoka Model” across all public schools.
Risiken des Klimawandels: Wie kann man mit den vielfältigen Unsicherheiten bei Risikobewertung und Anpassung an den Klimawandel umgehen?
Authors: Döll Petra
Published: October 2021

Um die vielfältigen Risiken des Klimawandels zu verringern, ist es notwendig, diese in lokalen partizipativen Prozessen mit Stakeholdern und Wissenschaftler*innen zu analysieren und zu bewerten und Strategien zur Risikoverringerung entwickeln. Dabei spielen verschiedene Arten von Unsicherheiten eine wichtige Rolle und sollten explizit adressiert werden. Anhand einer Unsicherheitsklassifikation werden die für solche partizipativen Prozesse relevanten Unsicherheiten (epistemische, ontologische und linguistische Unsicherheiten sowie Uneindeutigkeit) diskutiert, und es werden Methoden zum Umgang mit diesen Unsicherheiten vorgestellt.
Southeastern Peripheries of Huaxia: The Historical-Cultural Interaction and Assimilation from Southern Man and Bai Yue of Mainland to Island Yi and Maritime Fan
Authors: Wu Chunming
Published: October 2021

In the macroscopic situation of ethno-history in the East Asia, the mainstream of ethnic relationships in diverse regions has generally come along with the expansion of the Huaxia and Han nationality, as well as its interaction, conflicts, and assimilation with the neighboring cultures in “Four Directions”. The process of the so-called “Huaxianization” (华夏化) and “sinicization” (汉化) pushed forward step by step from the “Central Plains” and “Central Nation” in the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River, outward to the peripheries of its “Four Directions”, and from the mainland to the oceanic areas. In this process, the main pattern of ethnic interaction presented in a differentiated concentric geopolitical order of the “Central Nation (中国)”- peripheral “Four Directions” (四方) with “Nine States” (九州) and “Various States” (万国)—“Four Seas” as the “Gullied Boundary of China Nation” (四海为壑), finally resulting in the unity of China Nation of “Assimilation and Integration of Pluralistic Cultures” (多元一体) with the Han ethnicity as its core.
Ethno-Archaeological Investigation to the “Straw and Bark Woven Clothing” of Island Yi and Southern Man in South of China and Southeast Asia
Authors: Wu Chunming
Published: October 2021

The complex and variant patterns of costume were important parts of the human cultures in the history. Generally, the early dress of human beings started from the non-woven fabrics such as grass leaves, barks, beast coats and fur, and other natural resources, and developed into woven cloth products of fiber thread with warp and weft structure.The clothing variants are the cultural representation of ethnic groups, showing the different costume traditions and cultural features. In the ethnic cultural system of Asia–Pacific region, the ancient clothing made of cotton, hemp, silk, and wool fibers in the inland region of East Asia centered on the Central Plains has a long tradition since prehistory, represented by the so-called “Clothing and Dressing Civilization” of Huaxia and Han nationality in its sinocentrism, while on the coast of southern China, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands, the non-woven bark cloth of the indigenous Bai Yue system and Austronesian presents another distinctive costume culture.
Complete hemispheric exposure vs. superior sagittal sinus sparing craniectomy: incidence of shear-bleeding and shunt-dependency
Authors: Vychopen Martin , Schneider Matthias , Borger Valeri , Schuss Patrick , Behning Charlotte , Vatter Hartmut , Güresir Erdem
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Decompressive hemicraniectomy (DC) has been established as a standard therapeutical procedure for raised intracranial pressure. However, the size of the DC remains unspecified. The aim of this study was to analyze size related complications following DC.

Methods

Between 2013 and 2019, 306 patients underwent DC for elevated intracranial pressure at author´s institution. Anteroposterior and craniocaudal DC size was measured according to the postoperative CT scans. Patients were divided into two groups with (1) exposed superior sagittal sinus (SE) and (2) without superior sagittal sinus exposure (SC). DC related complications e.g. shear-bleeding at the margins of craniectomy and secondary hydrocephalus were evaluated and compared.

Results

Craniectomy size according to anteroposterior diameter and surface was larger in the SE group; 14.1 ± 1 cm vs. 13.7 ± 1.2 cm, p = 0.003, resp. 222.5 ± 40 cm2 vs. 182.7 ± 36.9 cm2, p < 0.0001. The SE group had significantly lower rates of shear-bleeding: 20/176 patients; (11%), compared to patients of the SC group; 36/130 patients (27%), p = 0.0003, OR 2.9, 95% CI 1.6–5.5.

There was no significant difference in the incidence of shunt-dependent hydrocephalus; 19/130 patients (14.6%) vs. 24/176 patients (13.6%), p = 0.9.

Conclusions

Complete hemispheric exposure in terms of DC with SE was associated with significantly lower levels of iatrogenic shear-bleedings compared to a SC-surgical regime. Although we did not find significant outcome difference, our findings suggest aggressive craniectomy regimes including SE to constitute the surgical treatment strategy of choice for malignant intracranial pressure.
Lebensqualität bei Trägern eines suprapubischen oder transurethralen Harnblasenkatheters als lebenslange Dauerversorgung
Authors: Wiedemann A. , Gedding C. , Heese M. , Stein J. , Manseck A. , Kirschner‑Hermanns R. , Karstedt H. , Schorn A. , Wagner A. , Moll V. , Unger U. , Eisenhardt A. , Bannowsky A. , Linné C. , Wirz S. , Brammen E. , Heppner H.‑J.
Published: October 2021

Hintergrund

Die Anlage eines transurethralen Dauerkatheters (DK) oder suprapubischen Harnblasenkatheters (SPK) in lebenslanger Indikation stellt einen Eingriff mit relevanten Komplikationen, Komorbiditäten und möglichen Auswirkungen auf die katheterassoziierte Lebensqualität des Betroffenen dar. Letztere wurde aber bisher noch nicht untersucht.

Methodik

Zur Anwendung kam ein validiertes Assessment zur katheterbezogenen Lebensqualität mit 25 Items in 5 Domänen. Befragt wurden im Rahmen eines Katheterwechsels Patienten mit einem DK oder SPK in lebenslanger Intention, die diesen mindestens 3 Monate trugen.

Ergebnisse

Fragebögen von 357 Patienten, davon 260 Männer und 97 Frauen, 193 mit SPK und 162 mit DK (2 ohne Angabe) lagen vor. Patienten mit DK waren mit 78,9 ± 11,1 Jahren signifikant älter als solche mit SPK mit 74,4 ± 12,6 Jahren (p < 0,001). Der mittlere Gesamtlebensqualitätsscore lag bei 4,1 ± 0,9 Punkten auf einer Skala von 1 (maximal beeinträchtigte Lebensqualität) bis 5 (keine Beeinträchtigung der Lebensqualität). Es zeigten sich u. a. mit niedrigeren Scores eine vermehrte Angst vor Katheterlecks, Angst vor Uringeruch und Harnwegsinfektionen und vor schmerzhaften Katheterwechseln. Diese Sorgen waren v. a. bei Frauen, solchen mit Harninkontinenz, Trägern eines Katheters ≥ 18 Ch und bei Patienten < 70 Jahren vorhanden. Frauen mit einem SPK wiesen eine schlechtere Bewertung ihrer Lebensqualität als Männer mit SPK auf.

Schlussfolgerung

Die gefundenen Ergebnisse sollten in die Aufklärung zu einer lebenslangen Katheterableitung einfließen bzw. im Kontext möglicher Alternativen wie z. B. einer operativen Desobstruktion oder einer Hilfsmittelversorgung mit dem Patienten bzw. Betreuungspersonen besprochen werden.
Beirut explosion: TNT equivalence from the fireball evolution in the first 170 milliseconds
Authors: Aouad C. J. , Chemissany W. , Mazzali P. , Temsah Y. , Jahami A.
Published: October 2021

The evolution of the fireball resulting from the August 2020 Beirut explosion is traced using amateur videos taken during the first 400 ms after the detonation. Thirty-nine frames separated by 16.66–33.33 ms are extracted from six different videos located precisely on the map. Time evolution of the shock wave radius is traced by the fireball at consecutive time moments until about $$ t \approx 170$$

t
≈
170

 ms and a distance $$ d \approx 128$$

d
≈
128

 m. Pixel scales for the videos are calibrated by de-projecting the existing grain silos building, for which accurate as-built drawings are available, using the length, the width, and the height and by defining the line-of-sight incident angles. In the distance range $$ d \approx $$

d
≈

60–128 m from the explosion center, the evolution of the fireball follows the Sedov–Taylor model with spherical geometry and an almost instantaneous energy release. This model is used to derive the energy available to drive the shock front at early times. Additionally, a drag model is fitted to the fireball evolution until its stopping at a time $$ t \approx 500$$

t
≈
500

 ms at a distance $$d \approx 145\pm 5$$

d
≈
145
±
5

 m. Using the derived TNT equivalent yield, the scaled stopping distance reached by the fireball and the shock wave-fireball detachment epoch within which the fireball is used to measure the shock wave are in excellent agreement with other experimental data. A total TNT equivalence of $$ 200\pm 80\,\mathrm{t}$$

200
±
80

t

at a distance $$ d \approx 130$$

d
≈
130

 m is found. Finally, the dimensions of the crater size taken from a hydrographic survey conducted 6 days after the explosion are scaled with the known correlation equations yielding a close range of results. A recent published article by Dewey (Shock Waves 31:95–99, 2021) shows that the Beirut explosion TNT equivalence is an increasing function of distance. The results of the current paper are quantitatively in excellent agreement with this finding. These results present an argument that the actual mass of ammonium nitrate that contributed to the detonation is much less than the quantity that was officially claimed available.
Effect of varying salt concentration on iridescence in precooked pork meat
Authors: Ruedt Chiara , Gibis Monika , Weiss Jochen
Published: October 2021

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of salt concentration on meat iridescence in cured cooked pork products. In addition, the influence of nitrite and pigmentary color on iridescence and its visual macroscopic perception was ascertained. Sample cubes from the pigs M. longissimus thoracis et lumborum were salted with either NaCl (20 g/kg, 40 g/kg) or nitrite curing salt (6 g/kg, 20 g/kg, and 40 g/kg) and subsequently cooked. Control samples were not salted. The effects of NaCl and curing salt on iridescence, instrumental color and microstructure were evaluated. Salt treatment significantly (p < 0.05) increased water-holding capacity, mean myofibers diameters and iridescence and reduced light scattering (L* value). An iridescence limit was reached with the 20 g/kg salt treatments. No differences between sodium chloride and nitrite curing salt were observed for both visual evaluation and colorimetry of the interference colors. Iridescence increases were attributed to a swelling of the myofilament lattice and thus reduction of intermyofibrillar spaces as well as an optical clearing of the myofibrils by dissolution of myofibrillar proteins that both reduce light scattering and allow more reflectance and interference to occur.

Graphic abstract
The cost effectiveness of personalized dietary advice to increase protein intake in older adults with lower habitual protein intake: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Reinders Ilse , Visser Marjolein , Jyväkorpi Satu K. , Niskanen Riikka T. , Bosmans Judith E. , Jornada Ben Ângela , Brouwer Ingeborg A. , Kuijper Lothar D. , Olthof Margreet R. , Pitkälä Kaisu H. , Vijlbrief Rachel , Suominen Merja H. , Wijnhoven Hanneke A. H.
Published: October 2021

Purpose

To examine the cost effectiveness of dietary advice to increase protein intake on 6-month change in physical functioning among older adults.

Methods

In this multicenter randomized controlled trial, 276 community-dwelling older adults with a habitual protein intake < 1.0 g/kg adjusted body weight (aBW)/d were randomly assigned to either Intervention 1; advice to increase protein intake to ≥ 1.2 g/kg aBW/d (PROT, n = 96), Intervention 2; similar advice and in addition advice to consume protein (en)rich(ed) foods within half an hour after usual physical activity (PROT + TIMING, n = 89), or continue the habitual diet with no advice (CON, n = 91). Primary outcome was 6-month change in 400-m walk time. Secondary outcomes were 6-month change in physical performance, leg extension strength, grip strength, body composition, self-reported mobility limitations and quality of life. We evaluated cost effectiveness from a societal perspective.

Results

Compared to CON, a positive effect on walk time was observed for PROT;  – 12.4 s (95%CI,  – 21.8 to  – 2.9), and for PROT + TIMING;  – 4.9 s (95%CI,  – 14.5 to 4.7). Leg extension strength significantly increased in PROT (+ 32.6 N (95%CI, 10.6–54.5)) and PROT + TIMING (+ 24.3 N (95%CI, 0.2–48.5)) compared to CON. No significant intervention effects were observed for the other secondary outcomes. From a societal perspective, PROT was cost effective compared to CON.

Conclusion

Dietary advice to increase protein intake to ≥ 1.2 g/kg aBW/d improved 400-m walk time and leg strength among older adults with a lower habitual protein intake. From a societal perspective, PROT was considered cost-effective compared to CON. These findings support the need for re-evaluating the protein RDA of 0.8 g/kg BW/d for older adults.

Trial registration

The trial has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03712306). Date of registration: October 2018. Registry name: The (Cost) Effectiveness of Increasing Protein Intake on Physical Functioning in Older Adults. Trial Identifier: NCT03712306.
Excitable networks for finite state computation with continuous time recurrent neural networks
Authors: Ashwin Peter , Postlethwaite Claire
Published: October 2021

Continuous time recurrent neural networks (CTRNN) are systems of coupled ordinary differential equations that are simple enough to be insightful for describing learning and computation, from both biological and machine learning viewpoints. We describe a direct constructive method of realising finite state input-dependent computations on an arbitrary directed graph. The constructed system has an excitable network attractor whose dynamics we illustrate with a number of examples. The resulting CTRNN has intermittent dynamics: trajectories spend long periods of time close to steady-state, with rapid transitions between states. Depending on parameters, transitions between states can either beexcitable(inputs or noise needs to exceed a threshold to induce the transition), orspontaneous(transitions occur without input or noise). In the excitable case, we show the threshold for excitability can be made arbitrarily sensitive.
Leitlinien-Check für die Shuntchirurgie 2021
Authors: Becker Daniel , Isaak Andrej , Schmidli Jürg , Widmer Matthias K.
Published: October 2021

Fragestellung

Mit dieser Übersichtsarbeit über die aktuellsten Leitlinien zur Shuntchirurgie von Patienten mit chronischer Niereninsuffizienz (NKF-KDOQI, ERBP, GEMAV und ESVS) soll unter anderem geklärt werden, ob es sinnvoll und erforderlich ist, Leitlinien für den deutschsprachigen Raum zu erarbeiten.

Material und Methoden

Hierfür wurden diese vier Leitlinien hinsichtlich Methodik, Themenspektrum und Evidenzlage verglichen, um Gemeinsamkeiten, Unterschiede und Besonderheiten aufzuzeigen. Sowohl die fachliche Zusammensetzung der Autorenschaft wie auch die Methodik (PICO-/GRADE-System) der einzelnen Leitlinien sind sich ähnlich.

Ergebnisse

Arbeitsgruppen, die viele Nephrologen im Team hatten (NKF-KDOQI, GEMAV), haben das gesamte Spektrum der Kathetereinlage in ihre Leitlinien aufgenommen. Die Leitlinien der ESVS stellen die chirurgischen Aspekte der Shuntchirurgie in den Vordergrund. In den ERBP-Leitlinien, die bei der Themenwahl auch Patientenbedürfnisse einbeziehen, ist die Fistelreifung und Kanülierung ein wichtiges Thema. Die neuen NKF-KDOQI-Leitlinien zeigen Algorithmen, wie ein individualisiertes Dialysekonzept über die Zeit aussehen könnte. Allen Leitlinien ist gemeinsam, dass viele Empfehlungen aufgrund fehlender Evidenz und fehlender aktueller Studien nur auf Expertenmeinungen beruhen.

Schlussfolgerungen

Die Evidenzlage muss durch neue randomisierte Studien verbessert werden. Es wäre wünschenswert, wenn mit standardisierten Verfahren und kontinuierlicher Analyse aktualisierte und online abrufbare Empfehlungen zur Verfügung stünden. Um ein solches Projekt zu realisieren, ist eine internationale Kollaboration unabdingbar. Leitlinien für den deutschsprachigen Raum würden sich so erübrigen.
Fabry-Stroke Italian Registry (FSIR): a nationwide, prospective, observational study about incidence and characteristics of Fabry-related stroke in young-adults. Presentation of the study protocol
Authors: Romani Ilaria , Nencini Patrizia , Sarti Cristina , Pracucci Giovanni , Zedde Marialuisa , Nucera Antonia , Cianci Vittoria , Moller Jessica , Toni Danilo , Orsucci Daniele , Casella Carmela , Pinto Vincenza , Palumbo Pasquale , Barbarini Leonardo , Bella Rita , Ragno Michele , Scoditti Umberto , Mezzapesa Domenico Maria , Tassi Rossana , Diomedi Marina , Cavallini Anna , Volpi Gino , Chiti Alberto , Bigliardi Guido , Sacco Simona , Linoli Giovanni , Ricci Stefano , Giordano Antonello , Bonetti Bruno , Rasura Maurizia , Cecconi Emanuela , Princiotta Cariddi Lucia , Currò Dossi Roberto , Melis Marta , Consoli Domenico , Guidetti Donata , Biagini Silvia , Accavone Donatella , Inzitari Domenico
Published: October 2021

Background

TIA and stroke, both ischemic and hemorrhagic, may complicate Fabry disease at young-adult age and be the first manifestation that comes to the clinician’s attention. No definite indications have yet been elaborated to guide neurologists in Fabry disease diagnostics. In current practice, it is usually sought in case of cryptogenic strokes (while Fabry-related strokes can also occur by classical pathogenic mechanisms) or through screening programs in young cerebrovascular populations. Data on recurrence and secondary prevention of Fabry’s stroke are scanty.

Methods

The study had a prospective observational design involving 33 Italian neurological Stroke Units. Considering the incidence of TIA/stroke in the European population aged < 60 years and the frequency of Fabry disease in this category (as foreseen by a pilot study held at the Careggi University-Hospital, Florence), we planned to screen for Fabry disease a total of 1740 < 60-year-old individuals hospitalized for TIA, ischemic, or hemorrhagic stroke. We investigated TIA and stroke pathogenesis through internationally validated scales and we gathered information on possible early signs of Fabry disease among all cerebrovascular patients. Every patient was tested for Fabry disease through dried blood spot analysis. Patients who received Fabry disease diagnosis underwent a 12-month follow-up to monitor stroke recurrence and multi-system progression after the cerebrovascular event.

Discussion

The potential implications of this study are as follows: (i) to add information about the yield of systematic screening for Fabry disease in a prospective large cohort of acute cerebrovascular patients; (ii) to deepen knowledge of clinical, pathophysiological, and prognostic characteristics of Fabry-related stroke.
Metataxonomic analysis of tissue-associated microbiota in grooved carpet-shell (Ruditapes decussatus) and Manila (Ruditapes philippinarum) clams
Authors: Gerpe Diego , Lasa Aide , Lema Alberto , Romalde Jesús L.
Published: October 2021

Culture-dependent techniques only permit the study of a low percentage of the microbiota diversity in the environment. The introduction of next generation sequencing (NGS) technologies shed light into this hidden microbial world, providing a better knowledge on the general microbiota and, specifically, on the microbial populations of clams. Tissue-associated microbiota of Ruditapes decussatus and Ruditapes philippinarum (mantle, gills, gonad and hepatopancreas) was analysed in two different locations of Galicia (northwest of Spain) during Spring (April) and Autumn (October), employing a metataxonomic approach. High bacterial diversity and richness were found in all samples where a total of 22,044 OTUs were obtained. In most samples, phylum Proteobacteria was most frequently retrieved, although other phyla as Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Tenericutes, Firmicutes or Chlamydiae also appeared at high relative abundances in the samples. At genus level, great variation was found across tissues and sampling periods. A Nonmetric Multidimensional Scaling (NMDS) and a hierarchical clustering analysis allowed to further analyse the factors responsible for the differences among groups of samples in the different sites. Results showed sample ordination based on tissue origin and sampling periods, pointing out that the microbiota was influenced by these factors. Indeed, predominance of certain genera was observed, such as Endozoicomonas or Methylobacterium in gills and gonads, respectively, suggesting that selection of specific bacterial taxa is likely to occur. So far, this study provided a general picture of the tissue associated microbial population structure in R. decussatus and R. philippinarum clams, which, ultimately, allowed the identification of specific tissue-related taxa.
Gender Differences in the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Employment, Unpaid Work and Well-Being in the EU
Authors: Nivakoski Sanna , Mascherini Massimiliano
Published: October 2021

Unpaid work carried out inside the home has increased in the pandemic, and evidence points to women’s share in care responsibilities and domestic tasks remaining higher than those of men in the pandemic, continuing the gender divides of past decades.
Investigation of the Compressive Viscoelastic Properties of Brain Tissue Under Time and Frequency Dependent Loading Conditions
Authors: Li Weiqi , Shepherd Duncan E. T. , Espino Daniel M.
Published: October 2021

The mechanical characterization of brain tissue has been generally analyzed in the frequency and time domain. It is crucial to understand the mechanics of the brain under realistic, dynamic conditions and convert it to enable mathematical modelling in a time domain. In this study, the compressive viscoelastic properties of brain tissue were investigated under time and frequency domains with the same physical conditions and the theory of viscoelasticity was applied to estimate the prediction of viscoelastic response in the time domain based on frequency-dependent mechanical moduli through Finite Element models. Storage and loss modulus were obtained from white and grey matter, of bovine brains, using dynamic mechanical analysis and time domain material functions were derived based on a Prony series representation. The material models were evaluated using brain testing data from stress relaxation and hysteresis in the time dependent analysis. The Finite Element models were able to represent the trend of viscoelastic characterization of brain tissue under both testing domains. The outcomes of this study contribute to a better understanding of brain tissue mechanical behaviour and demonstrate the feasibility of deriving time-domain viscoelastic parameters from frequency-dependent compressive data for biological tissue, as validated by comparing experimental tests with computational simulations.
Performing unbelonging in court. Observations from a transnational corporate bribery trial—a dramaturgical approach
Authors: Schoultz Isabel , Flyghed Janne
Published: October 2021

This article presents a study of the theatrical performance in court in a high-profile transnational corporate bribery case. Data gathered from observations in court were supplemented with interviews with the defense teams and the presiding judge. The paper’s objective is to demonstrate how the defendants performed unbelonging in court via the interactions between the different ‘teams’ in the courtroom; the defense, the prosecutors, the judges, and the company Telia. The analysis draws on Goffman’s theater analogy and his understandings of performance and self-presentation. The authors introduce the concept of ‘performing unbelonging in court’ and show how the defendants performed unbelonging via an indirect expression of status and standing. The authors further analyze the defense teams’ framing of the case, including the framing of the defendants as being scapegoated by the corporation, and of the prosecution as being unfair and illegitimate, which also contributes to the performance of unbelonging in court. The complexity and ambiguity of a transnational corporate bribery case permeated the interactions during the trial; however, at the end of the article, the authors discuss how knowledge from this case is transferable to other crime types or legal cultures.