bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zweizeitige Ovarialtorsion bei bilateralem metachronem Teratom
Authors: Linder A. , Sorge I. , Hirsch F. W.
Published: June 2022

Reife Teratome sind die häufigsten benignen Raumforderungen des Ovars. Bei Kindern werden diese häufig durch eine Ovarialtorsion symptomatisch, welche den Verlust des Organs zur Folge haben kann. In seltenen Fällen manifestieren sich diese benignen Tumoren metachron auch nach mehreren Jahren auf der Gegenseite.

Berichtet wird von einem bei Erstdiagnose 6‑jährigen Mädchen, bei welchem zweimal im Abstand von 5 Jahren ein jeweils histologisch gesichertes, reifes Teratom des Ovars nachgewiesen wurde. Beide Male wurde der Tumor der betroffenen Seite durch eine Ovarialtorsion symptomatisch. Beim Erstereignis erfolgte eine linksseitige Tumor- und Ovarexstirpation. Der nach 5 Jahren zeitverzögert aufgetretene Tumor der Gegenseite entwickelte sich in einem Zeitraum von nur ca. 8 Monaten zur zuvor eindeutig unauffälligen Sonographie. Durch die rechtzeitige Diagnosestellung beim Zweitereignis konnte das verbliebene rechte Ovar letztendlich erhalten werden.

Dieser ungewöhnliche Fallbericht soll die Bedeutung regelmäßiger Follow-up-Untersuchungen insbesondere bei Kindern mit Ovarektomie aufgrund eines reifen Teratoms hervorheben und die Aufmerksamkeit für diese bei Kindern zwar seltene, aber potenziell komplikationsbehaftete Differenzialdiagnose schärfen.
The autonomous choice architect
Authors: Mills Stuart , Sætra Henrik Skaug
Published: June 2022

Choice architecture describes the environment in which choices are presented to decision-makers. In recent years, public and private actors have looked at choice architecture with great interest as they seek to influence human behaviour. These actors are typically called choice architects. Increasingly, however, this role of architecting choice is not performed by a human choice architect, but an algorithm or artificial intelligence, powered by a stream of Big Data and infused with an objective it has been programmed to maximise. We call this entity the autonomous choice architect. In this paper, we present an account of why artificial intelligence can fulfil the role of a choice architect and why this creates problems of transparency, responsibility and accountability for nudges. We argue that choice architects, be them autonomous computational systems or human-beings, at a most basic level select, from a range of designs, the design which is most likely to maximise a pre-determined objective. We then proceed to argue that, given the growing demand for targeted, personalised choice architecture and for faster, dynamic reconfigurations of choice architecture, as well as the ever-expanding pool of data from which feedback can be drawn, the role of the human choice architect is increasingly obscured behind algorithmic, artificially intelligent systems. We provide a discussion of the implications of autonomous choice architects, focusing on the importance of the humans who programme these systems, ultimately arguing that despite technological advances, the responsibility of choice architecture and influence remains firmly one human beings must bear.
Quantitative determination of sn-positional phospholipid isomers in MSn using silver cationization
Authors: Lillja Johan , Lanekoff Ingela
Published: June 2022

Glycerophospholipids are one of the fundamental building blocks for life. The acyl chain connectivity to the glycerol backbone constitutes different sn-positional isomers, which have great diversity and importance for biological function. However, to fully realize their impact on function, analytical techniques that can identify and quantify sn-positional isomers in chemically complex biological samples are needed. Here, we utilize silver ion cationization in combination with tandem mass spectrometry (MSn) to identify sn-positional isomers of phosphatidylcholine (PC) species. In particular, a labile carbocation is generated through a neutral loss (NL) of AgH, the dissociation of which provides diagnostic product ions that correspond to acyl chains at the sn-1 or sn-2 position. The method is comparable to currently available methods, has a sensitivity in the nM–µM range, and is compatible with quantitative imaging using mass spectrometry in MS4. The results reveal a large difference in isomer concentrations and the ion images show that the sn-positional isomers PC 18:1_18:0 are homogeneously distributed, whereas PC 18:1_16:0 and PC 20:1_16:0 show distinct localizations to sub-hippocampal structures.

Graphical abstract
Bodyweight, locomotion, and behavioral responses of the naked mole rat (Heterocephalus glaber) to lipopolysaccharide administration
Authors: Kisipan Mosiany Letura , Ojoo Rodi Omondi , Kanui Titus Ikusya , Abelson Klas S. P.
Published: June 2022

The naked mole rat has unique biologic characteristics that include atypical inflammatory responses. Lipopolysaccharide induces inflammation which triggers brain centers controlling feeding, and behavior to result in “sick animal behavior”. We characterized the bodyweight, locomotor, and other behavioral responses of this rodent to lipopolysaccharide administration. Lipopolysaccharide caused weight losses, which were not prevented by TAK 242. In the open field test, lipopolysaccharide did not depress locomotion, while urination, defecation, and activity freezing were rare. The animals exhibited walling but not rearing and fast backward movements that were unaffected by lipopolysaccharide. Failure to depress locomotion suggests either a unique immunity-brain crosstalk or motor responses/centers that tolerate depressive effects of inflammation. The absence of activity freezing and rarity of urination and defecation suggests that novel environments or lipopolysaccharide do not induce anxiety, or that anxiety is expressed differently in the animal. The absence of rearing could be due to the design of the animal’s locomotor apparatus while fast backward movement could be a mechanism for quick escape from threats in the tunnels of their habitat. Our results elucidate the unique biology of this rodent, which elicits interest in the animal as a model for inflammatory research, although the findings require mechanistic corroborations.
Trans-fracture approach for ORIF of coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus
Authors: Hackl Michael , Lanzerath Fabian , Ries Christian , Harbrecht Andreas , Leschinger Tim , Wegmann Kilian , Müller Lars Peter
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of comminuted coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus is challenging. When a concomitant lateral condyle fracture is present, it may be used for a trans-fracture approach to facilitate exposure and fracture reduction. This study aimed to investigate the frequency of lateral condyle fractures in coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus and analyze fracture reduction, fracture union and clinical results following ORIF through a trans-fracture approach.

Materials and methods

All adult patients who underwent treatment for an acute distal humerus fracture during a three-year period in our level-one trauma center were identified. All fractures were classified according to the Orthopaedic Trauma Association (OTA/AO) fracture classification system and all B3 fractures were classified according to the Dubberley classification. B3 fractures with a concomitant radial condyle fracture were identified. The clinical and radiological results, (Mayo Elbow Performance Score = MEPS, Visual Analogue Scale = VAS, range of motion), complications and revision surgeries were analyzed.

Results

53 patients (mean age 52 ± 19 years) were identified. 13 fractures (24.5%) were B3 fractures. Four of them (30.8%) had a concomitant radial condyle fracture. All of these patients underwent ORIF with headless cannulated compression screws and a (postero-)lateral locking plate through a trans-fracture approach. At a minimum follow-up of 24 months, the MEPS was 88 ± 12 points, the VAS was 2 ± 1 and the range of motion was 118° ± 12°. All fractures showed anatomic reduction. One patient developed partial avascular necrosis and underwent arthrolysis at 6 months. One patient underwent partial hardware removal and lateral collateral ligament bracing at 6 months.

Conclusions

Lateral condyle fractures are present in about one third of coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus. This injury can be used for a trans-fracture approach to facilitate exposure and to reliably achieve anatomic fracture reduction.
Attitude towards and perception of individual safety after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination among German cancer patients
Authors: Overheu Oliver , Lendowski Simon , Quast Daniel R. , Marheinecke Corinna S. , Kourti Eleni , Lugnier Celine , Andreica Ioana , Kiltz Uta , Pfaender Stephanie , Reinacher-Schick Anke
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Refusal to receive SARS-CoV-2 vaccination poses a threat to fighting the COVID-19 pandemic. Little is known about German cancer patients’ attitude towards and experience with SARS-CoV-2 vaccination.

Methods

Patients were enrolled between 04–11/2021. They completed a baseline questionnaire (BLQ) containing multiple choice questions and Likert items ranging from 1 (“totally disagree”) to 11 (“totally agree”) regarding their attitude towards vaccination and COVID-19. A follow-up questionnaire (FUQ) was completed after vaccination.

Results

218 patients (43% female) completed BLQ (110 FUQ; 48% female). Most patients agreed to “definitely get vaccinated” (82%) and disagreed with “SARS-CoV-2 vaccination is dispensable due to COVID-19 being no serious threat” (82%; more dissent among men, p = 0.05). Self-assessment as a member of a risk group (p = 0.03) and fear of COVID-19 (p = 0.002) were more common among women. Fear of side effects was more common among women (p = 0.002) and patients with solid or GI tumors (p = 0.03; p < 0.0001). At FUQ, almost all (91%) reported their vaccination to be well tolerated, especially men (p = 0.001). High tolerability correlated with confidence in the vaccine being safe (r = 0.305, p = 0.003). Most patients would agree to get it yearly (78%). After vaccination, patients felt safe meeting friends/family (91%) or shopping (62%). Vacation (32%) or work (22%) were among others considered less safe (less frequent among men, p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Acceptance of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination is high and it is well tolerated in this sensitive cohort. However, concerns about vaccine safety remain. Those and gender differences need to be addressed. Our results help identify patients that benefit from pre-vaccination consultation.
Dynamic Kernels for Hitting Sets and Set Packing
Authors: Bannach Max , Heinrich Zacharias , Reischuk Rüdiger , Tantau Till
Published: June 2022

Computing small kernels for the hitting set problem is a well-studied computational problem where we are given a hypergraph with n vertices and m hyperedges, each of size d for some small constant d, and a parameter k. The task is to compute a new hypergraph, called a kernel, whose size is polynomial with respect to the parameter k and which has a size-k hitting set if, and only if, the original hypergraph has one. State-of-the-art algorithms compute kernels of size $$k^d$$

k
d

(which is a polynomial as d is a constant), and they do so in time $$m\cdot 2^d {\text {poly}}(d)$$

m
·

2
d

poly

(
d
)

for a small polynomial $${\text {poly}}(d)$$

poly
(
d
)

(which is linear in the hypergraph size for d fixed). We generalize this task to the dynamic setting where hyperedges may continuously be added or deleted and one constantly has to keep track of a size-$$k^d$$

k
d

kernel. This paper presents a deterministic solution with worst-case time $$3^d {\text {poly}}(d)$$

3
d

poly

(
d
)

for updating the kernel upon inserts and time $$5^d {\text {poly}}(d)$$

5
d

poly

(
d
)

for updates upon deletions. These bounds nearly match the time $$2^d {\text {poly}}(d)$$

2
d

poly

(
d
)

needed by the best static algorithm per hyperedge. Let us stress that for constant d our algorithm maintains a hitting set kernel with constant, deterministic, worst-case update time that is independent of n, m, and the parameter k. As a consequence, we also get a deterministic dynamic algorithm for keeping track of size-k hitting sets in d-hypergraphs with update times O(1) and query times $$O(c^k)$$

O
(

c
k

)

where $$c = d - 1 + O(1/d)$$

c
=
d
-
1
+
O
(
1
/
d
)

equals the best base known for the static setting.
Outcome of inguinal hernia repair after previous radical prostatectomy: a registry-based analysis with 12,465 patients
Authors: Trawa M. , Albrecht H. C. , Köckerling F. , Riediger H. , Adolf D. , Gretschel S.
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Following radical prostatectomy, the rate of inguinal hernias is fourfold higher compared to controls. Laparo-endoscopic repair after previous radical prostatectomy is considered complex. Therefore, the guidelines recommend open Lichtenstein repair. To date, there are limited data on inguinal hernia repair after prior prostatectomy.

Methods

In a retrospective analysis from the Herniamed Registry, the outcomes of 255,182 primary elective unilateral inguinal hernia repairs were compared with those of 12,465 patients with previous radical prostatectomy in relation to the surgical technique. Furthermore, the outcomes of laparo-endoscopic versus open Lichtenstein repair techniques in the 12,465 patients after previous radical prostatectomy were directly compared.

Results

Comparison of the perioperative complication rates for primary elective unilateral inguinal hernia repair with and without previous radical prostatectomy demonstrated for the laparo-endoscopic techniques significantly higher intraoperative complications (2.1% vs 0.9%; p < 0.001), postoperative complications (3.2% vs 1.9%; p < 0.001) and complication-related reoperations (1.1% vs 0.7%; p = 0.0442) to the disadvantage of previous prostatectomy. No significant differences were identified for Lichtenstein repair. Direct comparison of the laparo-endoscopic with the open Lichtenstein technique for inguinal hernia repair after previous radical prostatectomy revealed significantly more intraoperative complications for TEP and TAPP (2.1% vs 0.6%; p < 0.001), but more postoperative complications (4.8% vs 3.2%; p < 0.001) and complication-related reoperations (1.8% vs 1.1%; p = 0.003) for open Lichtenstein repair.

Conclusion

Since there are no clear advantages for the laparo-endoscopic vs the open Lichtenstein technique in inguinal hernia repair after previous radical prostatectomy, the surgeon can opt for one or the other technique in accordance with their experience.
Work ability and physical fitness among aging workers: the Finnish Retirement and Aging Study
Authors: Suorsa Kristin , Mattila Ville-Mikko , Leskinen Tuija , Heinonen Olli J. , Pentti Jaana , Vahtera Jussi , Stenholm Sari
Published: June 2022

Background

With advancing age, physical capacity gradually decreases which may lead to decreased work ability, if the physical work requirements remain the same. Examination of the importance of physical fitness for work ability among aging workers will help to find potential strategies to promote work ability in old age. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between physical fitness and work ability among aging workers.

Methods

Aging workers (n = 288, mean age 62.5, 83% women) from the Finnish Retirement and Aging study underwent cardiorespiratory, muscular fitness and functional testing. Work ability was inquired on a scale 0–10 from poor to excellent. Association between physical fitness indicators and work ability was examined using ordinary least squares regression, taking into account age, gender, occupational status, heavy physical work, body mass index and accelerometer-measured daily total physical activity.

Results

VO2peak, modified push-up test and maximal walking speed were positively associated with work ability (β = 0.51, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.29–0.74, β = 0.46, 95% CI 0.26–0.66 and β = 0.23, 95% CI 0.07–0.39, respectively), while chair rise test time was inversely associated with work ability (β = −0.23, 95% CI −0.39–−0.06). No associations were found between hand grip strength or sit-up test and work ability.

Conclusions

Cardiorespiratory fitness, upper body strength, and lower extremity function were positively associated with work ability. Good physical fitness may help to maintain work ability among aging workers.
Healing Trauma and Loss and Increasing Social Connections: Transitions from Care and Early Parenting
Authors: Purtell Jade , Mendes Philip , Saunders Bernadette J. , Baidawi Susan
Published: June 2022

International literature suggests that many young people transitioning from government care become parents before age 21, characteristically termed ‘early parenting’, at least in the English-speaking world. Yet there is only limited knowledge of the factors that lead to this challenging responsibility. This paper presents findings from a qualitative study of service providers’ experiences working with young people transitioning from care who had become parents, in the state of Victoria, Australia. Victorian service providers recommended ways that current out-of-home care, transition from care and parenting services could be improved to reduce feelings of loss, including new service approaches that prioritise relationship-based practice, holistic support and practical assistance from a trusted person or service. Preventing feelings of loss and isolation and increasing supportive relationships in care and throughout transitions from care may help to prevent early pregnancy and parenting amongst care leavers who otherwise lack resources for parenting independently. Providing parenting support which addresses feelings of loss and social isolation may reduce the increasing numbers of children being placed in care, and associated ongoing cycles of child protection involvement with disadvantaged families.
Projected prevalence and incidence of dementia accounting for secular trends and birth cohort effects: a population-based microsimulation study
Authors: Brück Chiara Celine , Wolters Frank J. , Ikram M. Arfan , de Kok Inge M.C.M.
Published: June 2022

There is need for accurate projections of the future dementia burden to prepare healthcare systems and policymakers. Existing projections only account for population ageing, not for observed declines in age-specific dementia incidence of 13% per decade. We developed a dementia microsimulation model that synthesizes population-based data from the Rotterdam Study with changes in demographics between birth cohorts from the early 1900s onwards. We determined dementia prevalence and incidence until 2050 for three different dementia incidence trend scenarios: (1) stable age-specific incidence, (2) linear decline by 13% per decade, (3) nonlinear declines averaging 13% per decade. Assuming a stable age-specific incidence resulted in a 130% increase in incidence and 118% in prevalence between 2020 and 2050. By contrast, the linearly declining trend resulted in substantially smaller increases of 58% in incidence (95%CI: 29–87%), and 43% in prevalence (95%CI: 13–66%), corresponding to 39% lower incidence and 36% lower prevalence by 2050 than in the stable-incidence scenario. Results for various non-linear declines fell between the stable and linear trend. The future burden of dementia is highly susceptible to achievable changes in age-specific incidence. Extension of previously established secular trends globally would reduce widely upheld projections of new dementia cases until 2050 by 39%.
Association of advanced age with procedural complications and in-hospital outcomes from left atrial appendage occlusion device implantation in patients with atrial fibrillation: insights from the National Inpatient Sample of 36,065 procedures
Authors: Munir Muhammad Bilal , Khan Muhammad Zia , Darden Douglas , Asad Zain Ul Abideen , Choubdar Parnia Abolhassan , Din Mian Tanveer Ud , Osman Mohammed , Singh Gagan D. , Srivatsa Uma N. , Balla Sudarshan , Reeves Ryan , Hsu Jonathan C.
Published: June 2022

Background

Age-stratified analyses of atrial fibrillation (AF) patients undergoing percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) are limited. The purpose of current study was to compare in-hospital outcomes in elderly AF patients (age > 80 years) to a relatively younger cohort (age £ 80 years) after LAAO.

Methods

Data were extracted from National Inpatient Sample for calendar years 2015–2018. LAAO device implantations were identified on the basis of International Classification of Diseases, 9th and 10th Revision, Clinical Modification codes of 37.90 and 02L73DK. The outcomes assessed in our study included complications, inpatient mortality, and resource utilization with LAAO.

Results

A total of 36,065 LAAO recipients were included in the final analysis, of which 34.6% (n=12,475) were performed on elderly AF patients. Elderly AF patients had a higher prevalence of major complications (6.7% vs. 5.7%, p < 0.01) and mortality (0.4% vs. 0.1%, p < 0.01) after LAAO device implantation in the crude analysis. After multivariate adjustment of potential confounders, age > 80 years was associated with increased risk of inpatient mortality (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 4.439, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.391–8.239) but not major complications (aOR 1.084, 95% CI 0.971–1.211), prolonged length of stay (aOR 0.943, 95% CI 0.88–1.101), or increased hospitalization costs (aOR 0.909, 95% CI 0.865–0.955).

Conclusion

Over 1 in 3 LAAO device implantations occurred in elderly AF patients. After adjusting for potential confounding variables, advanced age was associated with inpatient mortality, but not with other LAAO procedural–related outcomes including major complications, prolonged length of stay, or increased hospitalization costs.
Shift of pairwise similarities for data clustering
Authors: Haghir Chehreghani Morteza
Published: June 2022

Several clustering methods (e.g., Normalized Cut and Ratio Cut) divide the Min Cut cost function by a cluster dependent factor (e.g., the size or the degree of the clusters), in order to yield a more balanced partitioning. We, instead, investigate adding such regularizations to the original cost function. We first consider the case where the regularization term is the sum of the squared size of the clusters, and then generalize it to adaptive regularization of the pairwise similarities. This leads to shifting (adaptively) the pairwise similarities which might make some of them negative. We then study the connection of this method to Correlation Clustering and then propose an efficient local search optimization algorithm with fast theoretical convergence rate to solve the new clustering problem. In the following, we investigate the shift of pairwise similarities on some common clustering methods, and finally, we demonstrate the superior performance of the method by extensive experiments on different datasets.
Non-orthogonal multiple access system based on time diversity for 5G applications
Authors: Zaki Amira I. , Samy Amal A. , Garg Amit Kumar , Aly Moustafa H.
Published: June 2022

Novel coding and modulation methods are required for fulfilling the demands of 5G and beyond cellular communication systems. In this paper, an innovative time diversity non-orthogonal multiple access (TD-NOMA) approach is proposed for 5G applications. The suggested system uses time diversity (TD) in conjunction with NOMA to improve the system bit error rate (BER) performance. The NOMA technique basically employes data transmission based on non-orthogonal basis functions. The data pass through the channel, and the desired signal can be obtained by a successive interference cancelation (SIC) receiver. Using different subcarriers and channel models, different modulation schemes such as QPSK and BPSK are investigated. When compared to conventional methodologies, the simulation results reveal that the proposed system outperforms them; it reduces the effect of fading for the multipath channel and enhances the BER.
What regulates the rhizodeposition of winter oilseed rape during growth?
Authors: Remus Rainer , Pandey Divya , Lüttschwager Dietmar
Published: June 2022

Purpose

The goal of this work was to contribute to a better understanding of the process of rhizodeposition in crops and to find helpful approaches for creating a simple model of rhizodeposition. For this purpose, we tested three hypotheses about the relationships and changes in the relative C partitioning coefficients and their ratios. In particular, we analyzed the relationships between root growth, belowground respiration, rhizodeposition and other traits during plant growth.

Methods

The ranges of variation in $$^{14}$$

14

C partitioning coefficients and various plant traits were determined after $$^{14}$$

14

C labeling of four winter oilseed rape genotypes in three developmental stages.

Result

For all genotypes, we found very strong and significant correlations between the percentages of freshly assimilated C used for rhizodeposition and root growth. In addition, we showed that the ratios of the relative $$^{14}$$

14

C fluxes in the root-soil-soil gas system changed significantly during plant development and that the relative and absolute C fluxes of rhizodeposition followed different trends. The root growth rate and the change in the ratio of the percentages of $$^{14}$$

14

C in rhizodeposition and root tissue over time were the key factors that determined the absolute amount of rhizodeposited C. We also found that the C partitioning in a taproot system leading to root growth and rhizodeposition was similar to that of an adventitious root system.

Conclusion

Based on our results, we conclude that using the identified key factors in combination with a root growth model, a simple model can be generated to describe rhizodeposition.
The effect of combined loading on the behavior of micropiled rafts installed with inclined condition
Authors: Elsawwaf Ahmed , Nazir Ashraf , Azzam Waseim
Published: June 2022

One of the major disadvantages of micropiles is their low lateral stiffness and flexural rigidity due to the small diameter. This limitation can be handled in current practice, by installing the micropile with inclined condition or providing a steel casing. Additional steel casings will increase the lateral load capacity of micropiles but increase the project cost as well. Thus, inclination of micropile which is relatively simple and cheap is recommended. In this paper, a comprehensive numerical analysis is conducted on the behavior of micropiled rafts installed with inclined condition under combined vertical and lateral loading. A FEM calibrated against full-scale axial and lateral field tests is used to conduct the analysis. The soil profile is soft clay soil underlain by a layer of dense sand. The study investigates the impact of several parameters which are as follows: magnitude of vertical loading, reinforcement type, inclination angle of micropiles, and number of inclined micropiles. The study reveals that increasing vertical loads causes continuous decrease in the lateral load capacity of micropiled rafts. When all micropiles installed are inclined, the positively inclined micropiles carry 79–86% of the total lateral load carried by micropiles, whereas the negatively inclined ones carry 14–21%. Inclined micropiles offer greater lateral load sharing ratio (αh) than that of vertical ones, largest at θ = 45°. The effect of micropile reinforcement on improving the lateral performance is low compared to the effect of micropile inclination angle.
Auto-encoded Latent Representations of White Matter Streamlines for Quantitative Distance Analysis
Authors: Zhong Shenjun , Chen Zhaolin , Egan Gary
Published: June 2022

Parcellation of whole brain tractograms is a critical step to study brain white matter structures and connectivity patterns. The existing methods based on supervised classification of streamlines into predefined streamline bundle types are not designed to explore sub-bundle structures, and methods with manually designed features are expensive to compute streamline-wise similarities. To resolve these issues, we propose a novel atlas-free method that learns a latent space using a deep recurrent auto-encoder trained in an unsupervised manner. The method efficiently embeds any length of streamlines to fixed-size feature vectors, named streamline embedding, for tractogram parcellation using non-parametric clustering in the latent space. The method was evaluated on the ISMRM 2015 tractography challenge dataset with discrimination of major bundles using clustering algorithms and streamline querying based on similarity, as well as real tractograms of 102 subjects Human Connectome Project. The learnt latent streamline and bundle representations open the possibility of quantitative studies of arbitrary granularity of sub-bundle structures using generic data mining techniques.
An analytic network process model to prioritize supply chain risks in green residential megaprojects
Authors: Alamdari A. M. , Jabarzadeh Y. , Adams B. , Samson D. , Khanmohammadi S.
Published: June 2022

Megaprojects and specifically ‘green’ construction of residential megaprojects can contain significant risks of failure. To design proper risk mitigation strategies, after identifying key risk factors, the next step is to conduct assessments that would facilitate the process of risk element prioritization. Risk assessment comprises the establishment of factor interrelation and discerning the indicators of importance. This research proposes a novel version of an integrated prioritization method and analyzes twelve all-inclusive key supply chain oriented risk factors identified in a previous study. Through a comprehensive literature review three criteria, impact, probability, and manageability are selected. Also, a fourth criterion namely influence rate is included in the model, based on the driving powers that can also be derived from the Interpretive Structural Modeling’s (ISM) assessment. Fundamentally, the calculations hinge on the Analytic Network Process (ANP) method which provides an assessment of the alternatives’ weights based on pairwise comparisons concerning the criteria specified. To enhance the accuracy of the perceptive judgments of the expert panelists, a bell-shaped fuzzy function is used to convert the verbal statements to crisp values. In addition, Row Sensitivity Analysis is administered to check the stability of the results and provide predictive scenarios. To validate the model, a case study, located in Iran, was conducted, where an expert panel consisting of four individuals made the pair-wise comparisons through an ANP questionnaire. Results indicate priority and sensitivity of the alternatives concerning criteria, for the case under study.
Chlorophytum delicatulum (Asparagaceae), a newly described species from Zambia
Authors: Osborne J. , Vollesen K. , Bjorå C. S. , Grall A. , Merrett L. , Kativu S.
Published: June 2022

Chlorophytum delicatulum Osborne, Vollesen & Bjorå from Zambia is described, illustrated and placed within the context of recent taxonomic and phylogenetic work on Chlorophytum in Africa. This delicate herb has leaf bases furnished with conspicuous dark red setae resembling eyelashes. Its phylogenetic position, ecology, phytogeography and conservation status are discussed. Chlorophytum delicatulum is assessed as being of Least Concern using the categories and criteria of the IUCN Red List.
Prevalence and Correlates of Sexual Aversion: A Canadian Community-Based Study
Authors: Lafortune David , Dussault Éliane , Philibert Mathieu , Godbout Natacha
Published: June 2022

Background

Sexual aversion (SA) is a chronic difficulty impacting sexual, relational and psychological wellbeing. Yet, there is a dearth of studies exploring its prevalence and associated factors.

Aim

To estimate the prevalence of SA and examine its correlates among a community sample of Canadian adults.

Methods

A large web-based sample of the Quebec (Canada) adult population (n = 1,935) completed an online survey on sexual wellbeing. Prevalence rates were estimated for SA and other sexual difficulties. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify correlates of SA.

Outcomes

Demographics (eg, gender, employment status), self-reported experiences of sexual difficulties (low sexual desire and arousal, vaginal dryness, pain during sexual intercourse, erectile difficulties, premature or delayed ejaculation, and orgasm difficulties), and markers of psychosexual wellbeing (eg, psychological distress, performance anxiety) according to the presence or absence of SA were assessed.

Results

The prevalence of SA was 9.7% (95% CI: 8.5–11.2) in the present sample (6.9% [95% CI: 5.1–8.9] in men, 11.3% [95% CI: 9.4–13.4] in women and 17.1% [95% CI: 9.4–27.4] in nonbinary and/or trans individuals). The multivariate logistic regression model explained 31% of the likelihood of experiencing SA. SA was related to psychological distress (aOR: 1.77, 95% CI: 1.33–2.38), sexual satisfaction (aOR: .59, 95% CI:.49–0.70), sexual performance anxiety (aOR: 2.08, 95% CI: 1.45–2.98), and discomfort with sex-related information (aOR: 1.02, 95% CI: 1.01–1.04)

Clinical implications

Several psychosexual correlates of SA were documented and could be targeted by practitioners during the assessment and treatment of individuals living with SA.

Strengths and limitations

The study’s strengths include its large, gender diverse sample and use of comprehensive diagnostic criteria for SA. Probability-based sampling methods and longitudinal studies should be conducted to address the current study’s limitations.

Conclusion

SA research is critical to document its prevalence in different sociodemographic groups, explore additional intrapersonal and interpersonal mechanisms involved in SA etiology, and ensure that the needs of people living with SA are met with tailored interventions.
Foreign Banks and Global Finance in Modern China
Authors: Moazzin Ghassan
Published: June 2022

In this wide-ranging study, Ghassan Moazzin sheds critical new light on the history of foreign banks in late 19th and early 20th century China, a time period that saw a substantial influx of foreign financial institutions into China and a rapid increase of both China's foreign trade and its interactions with international capital markets. Drawing on a broad range of German, English, Japanese and Chinese primary sources, including business records, government documents and personal papers, Moazzin reconstructs how during this period foreign banks facilitated China's financial integration into the first global economy and provided the financial infrastructure required for modern economic globalization in China. Foreign Banks and Global Finance in Modern China shows the key role international finance and foreign banks and capital markets played at important turning points in modern Chinese history.
A didactic model to support the use of senses and sensors in environmental education problem solving
Authors: Silva Maria João
Published: June 2022

Problem solving, and specifically the goal of developing problem-solving competences, is a significant dimension of environmental education. Moreover, human senses and electronic sensors have been recognized as important tools in authentic problem-based learning. The purpose of this paper is to present a model to support teachers in creating didactic activities that use human senses and electronic sensors as epistemic mediators in participatory environmental education problem-based learning. The EcoSolvingS model is based on a set theoretical and practical perspectives, and on a cross analysis of a selection of environmental education problem-solving case studies. In a first part, this paper presents the dimensions of the theoretical foundations of the EcoSolvingS model. Subsequently, the results of the cross analysis of the environmental education problem-solving case studies are presented and related to the components of the EcoSolvingS model. Finally, the model is described, and its utility and future developments are discussed.
Structure, function, and productivity from the National Dental Practice-Based Research Network
Authors: Gilbert Gregg H. , Fellows Jeffrey L. , Allareddy Veerasathpurush , Cochran David L. , Cunha-Cruz Joana , Gordan Valeria V. , McBurnie Mary Ann , Meyerowitz Cyril , Mungia Rahma , Rindal D. Brad ,   National Dental PBRN Collaborative Group
Published: June 2022

Introduction:

Following inception in 2005 as a multiregional practice-based research network (PBRN), the “National Dental PBRN” expanded nationwide in 2012, and in 2019 implemented additional organizational changes. The objectives are to: (1) describe the new structure and function of the network; and (2) quantify its scientific productivity since 2005.

Methods:

A national Administrative and Resource Center is based in Alabama; regional and specialty nodes are based in Alabama, Florida, Illinois, Minnesota, Oregon, New York, and Texas. A Network Coordinating Center is based in Oregon. Studies are funded via investigator-initiated grants. Scientific productivity is assessed using specific metrics, including the Relative Citation Ratio.

Results:

To date, 58 studies have been completed or are in data collection or development. These studies have investigated a broad range of topics using a wide variety of study designs. Of the studies that have completed enrollment, 70,665 patients were enrolled, as were 19,827 practitioners (some participated in multiple studies), plus electronic records for 790,493 patients in two data-only studies. To date, these studies have led to 193 peer-reviewed scientific publications in 62 different journals. The mean (1.40) Relative Citation Ratio of Network publications connotes a greater-than-average influence in their fields.

Conclusions:

These metrics demonstrate that the PBRN research context can successfully engage practitioners and patients from diverse settings nationally with a high and sustained level of scientific productivity. This infrastructure has enabled clinical scientists in oral health and nonoral health topics and provided additional recruitment venues outside of the typical academic health center research context.
Predicting spatiotemporal variability in radial tree growth at the continental scale with machine learning
Authors: Bodesheim Paul , Babst Flurin , Frank David C. , Hartl Claudia , Zang Christian S. , Jung Martin , Reichstein Markus , Mahecha Miguel D.
Published: June 2022

Tree-ring chronologies encode interannual variability in forest growth rates over long time periods from decades to centuries or even millennia. However, each chronology is a highly localized measurement describing conditions at specific sites where wood samples have been collected. The question whether these local growth variabilites are representative for large geographical regions remains an open issue. To overcome the limitations of interpreting a sparse network of sites, we propose an upscaling approach for annual tree-ring indices that approximate forest growth variability and compute gridded data products that generalize the available information for multiple tree genera. Using regression approaches from machine learning, we predict tree-ring indices in space and time based on climate variables, but considering also species range maps as constraints for the upscaling. We compare various prediction strategies in cross-validation experiments to identify the best performing setup. Our estimated maps of tree-ring indices are the first data products that provide a dense view on forest growth variability at the continental level with 0.5° and 0.0083° spatial resolution covering the years 1902–2013. Furthermore, we find that different genera show very variable spatial patterns of anomalies. We have selected Europe as study region and focused on the six most prominent tree genera, but our approach is very generic and can easily be applied elsewhere. Overall, the study shows perspectives but also limitations for reconstructing spatiotemporal dynamics of complex biological processes. The data products are available at https://www.doi.org/10.17871/BACI.248.
G.A. RES. 75/314 Establishing a Permanent Forum of People of African Descent (U.N.)
Authors: Thomas Chantal
Published: June 2022

On August 2, 2021, the UN General Assembly unanimously adopted Resolution 75/314, establishing a Permanent Forum of People of African Descent to serve as “a consultative mechanism” to advise the UN Human Rights Council on barriers to, and means of achieving, the “full and effective realization and enjoyment” by Afro-descended persons “of all their human rights and fundamental freedoms.” The Permanent Forum constitutes one outcome of the International Decade for People of African Descent declared by the UN General Assembly to commence on January 1, 2015 and conclude on December 31, 2024. It joins a host of institutional initiatives undertaken in the UN human rights system to elaborate a comprehensive framework for combating “the scourges of racism” and realizing the “full political, economic and social inclusion of people of African descent in the societies in which they live.”
A note on the snout
Authors: Fowler A.C.
Published: June 2022

The shallow ice approximation for glaciers and ice sheets is a degenerate model in which the ice surface slope at the margin may be infinite. This result is due to the neglect of the otherwise small longitudinal stress terms. Here we derive a corrected approximation for the basal shear stress, and show that the resulting model provides an explanation for the observed finite slope margins.
CONTINUOUS LOGIC AND BOREL EQUIVALENCE RELATIONS
Authors: HALLBÄCK ANDREAS , MALICKI MACIEJ , TSANKOV TODOR
Published: June 2022

We study the complexity of isomorphism of classes of metric structures using methods from infinitary continuous logic. For Borel classes of locally compact structures, we prove that if the equivalence relation of isomorphism is potentially
$\mathbf {\Sigma }^0_2$
, then it is essentially countable. We also provide an equivalent model-theoretic condition that is easy to check in practice. This theorem is a common generalization of a result of Hjorth about pseudo-connected metric spaces and a result of Hjorth–Kechris about discrete structures. As a different application, we also give a new proof of Kechris’s theorem that orbit equivalence relations of actions of Polish locally compact groups are essentially countable.
The real solutions of x = ax
Authors: Beardon A. F.
Published: June 2022

We denote the real logarithm of a positive number a by ln a, so that ax = exp (x ln a), and we shall discuss what is known about the real solutions x of the equation
(1)
$$x = {a^x},\;\,a > 0.$$

First, as exp t > 0 for all real t, each real solution x of (1) is positive.
A mathematical approximation in the physical sciences
Authors: Mahony John D.
Published: June 2022

The business of making mathematical approximations in the physical sciences has a long and noble history. For example, in the earliest days of pyramid construction in ancient Egypt it was necessary to approximate lengths required in construction, especially when they involved irrational numbers. Similarly, surveyors in early Greece seeking to lay out profiles of right-angle triangles or circles on the ground invariably ended up making approximations regarding measurements of required lengths, as indeed is the case today. Practitioners have always faced the problem of having to decide when parameters in theory have been met satisfactorily in the practice of measurement. Further, before the advent of hand-held calculators, students in schools in the UK would have been very familiar with the approximation 22/7 for the transcendental number π, obtained perhaps by comparing (as this author did) the measured circumferences of many laboriously drawn circles of different sizes with their diameters. Despite the advent of sophisticated calculating devices and facilities, such as computers and spreadsheets, the practice of making approximations is still much in evidence in theoretical work in fields associated with physical phenomena. Such approximations often result in formulae that are easy to use and remember, and moreover can produce theoretical results that support directly, or otherwise, results from measurements. In this respect, the practical mathematician does not have to seek results to many decimal places when measurement facilities allow for accuracy to only a few. The purpose of this Article is to illustrate this point by discussing an example drawn from the realms of antenna theory, relating to the performance of a dipole antenna. It is not the purpose here to delve into the derivation of dipole theory, but to extract the relevant information and show how useful mathematical approximations can be employed to simplify a relationship between parameters of interest to an antenna engineer. To this end, it will first be necessary to introduce some antenna concepts that might be new to the reader.
A computer look at N!
Authors: Sullivan Jerry
Published: June 2022

The product over the integers 1 to N is written as N!, is called N factorial, and is defined as:
(1)
$${\rm{N! = 1 \times 2 \times 3 \times }} \ldots {\rm{ \times (N - 1) \times N}}{\rm{.}}$$
.
On the class of an integer triangle
Authors: Read Emrys
Published: June 2022

Any mathematics student who has ever used the cosine rule to investigate simple properties of an integer triangle will immediately have realised that the cosine of each angle of the triangle must be a rational number. It is clear, however, that the same is not in general true for the sines. In [1], it is shown how to use a property of the sines of the angles of an integer triangle to categorise the triangle as being of a particular class. In this article, we develop some of the concepts and results of [1] to derive a method for generating integer triangles of a given class. Finally, we apply our results to find all primitive integer triangles in the particular case of Heronian triangles.
OVID'S HERMAPHRODITUS AND THEMOLLISMALE
Authors: Ormand Kirk
Published: June 2022

Figures of intersexed individuals perhaps representing the minor Greek deity Hermaphroditus became, for reasons that are not entirely clear, strikingly popular in Roman sculpture and wall painting in the latter half of the first century CE. Depicting a fully bisexed human body, these figures have resulted in competing interpretations regarding their purpose, meaning, and effect. As it happens, we also have a text from the Augustan period that purports to explain not only the origin of the intersexed Hermaphroditus, but the production of future bisexed individuals, in Ovid'sMetamorphosesBook 4. When discussing the sculptures and wall paintings of Hermaphroditus, as a result, scholars have been inevitably drawn to Ovid's narrative. The pull of Ovid is admittedly almost irresistible, and his reputation as a poet who challenges norms, conventions, and genres makes it attractive to see him as creating room for modern notions of gender fluidity. As Georgia Nugent argued more than thirty years ago, however, Ovid's narrative is, in curious ways, a reductive version of the myth, ‘a paradigmatic example of how what is sexually threatening may be textually recuperated and stabilized’. I wish to reanimate Nugent's arguments here, and to suggest that scholars’ regular invocation of Ovid when interpreting the products of Roman art is a mistake, for two reasons: first, the figure Ovid describes is, in fact, not typical of what we see in Roman sculptures and wall paintings; and second, Ovid presents a version of Hermaphroditus’ gender identity that is deliberately less challenging to the stability of sexual binarism—and to traditional gender roles—than are those material depictions. For those of us who wish to advocate for the rights of intersexed individuals, in other words, Ovid is the wrong champion.