bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rotating blade propellers in prospective aviation technology
Authors: Prokhorov Viktor , Sarchenko Vladimir , Oborin Lev , Melnikov Viktor , Khirevich Sergey
Published: July 2023

The study proposes the use of a new generation of aircraft based on the use of cylindrical rotating blade propellers as a means of transportation. The results of research and development work carried out on several dimensions of cylindrical rotating blade propellers are considered. The results obtained allow us to lay down a certain basis for the theory and practice of the operation of cylindrical rotating blade propellers. In the process of scientific research, an understanding of the role of geometric ratios of rotor elements and the number of blades is obtained. The limits of the angle of attack and thrust vector deflection are defined. The requirements for structural strength and stiffness of the rotating blade propeller parts are formed. The solution of the kinematic mechanisms for controlling the angles of attack of the blades and flaps, and the thrust vector in general, etc., was formed. A conceptual image of a two-seat aircraft using cylindrical rotating blade propellers is proposed. Bench tests of the cylindrical rotating blade propellers allowed the formation of tactical and technical requirements for the two-seat aircraft. It is suggested that further research be considered to determine design solutions for promising aircraft of greater payload and capacity.
Cognitive model of the ESG transformation of the organization
Authors: Anokhina Marina , Kolesnikov Anatoly , Maksimov Maksim
Published: July 2023

A universal model of ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) transformation is proposed as a basis for developing an organization’s ESG strategy. Fuzzy cognitive logic technologies were used as the instrumental base of the study. A fuzzy cognitive map (FCM) of the organization’s ESG transformation has been developed with a substantiation of a set of parameters (concepts) in the environmental, social and managerial spheres. Based on the static analysis of the fuzzy cognitive model (FCM) and the calculation of its system indicators, it was determined that the factors of the level of ESG-corporate culture, ESG-motivation and integration into the practice of corporate management methodology of strategic management have the greatest positive impact on the target concepts and on the process of ESG transformation as a system. The system experiences a significant negative impact from the factor of resistance to changes in the organization. Collectively, these factors are identified as the main control actions for the organization’s ESG transformation.
The labor market in Russia and its regions
Authors: Sevek Vyacheslav , Manchyk-Sat Choduraa , Sereezhikpey Anna , Oyun Ayana , Kuular Shonchalai
Published: July 2023

The study of the labor market in the Republic of Tyva is a planned work of the research laboratory “Research of the labor market” at the Faculty of Economics of the Tuva State University. The main objective of the laboratory is to analyze the demanded professions requiring higher education in the Republic of Tyva for the employment of university graduates, taking into account the scope of their activities. The purpose of this study is to analyze the professions in demand in Russia and the Republic of Tyva. The results of many years of work on the employment of graduate students of Tuva State University, observation and comparison of the needs of republican employers during meetings related to the employment of university graduates, analysis of statistical materials of the Ministry of Labor of Russia, All-Russian Research Institute of Labor of the Ministry of Labor of Russia, the All-Russian database of vacancies and resumes were used as research sources. “Employment in Russia”, the Ministry of Labor and Social Policy of the Republic of Tuva and other open sources providing a reliable assessment of the ongoing processes in the Russian and regional labor market. The novelty of the study lies in the definition of practical recommendations for the employment of graduates of secondary and higher educational institutions, when in modern conditions in the country the labor market is dynamically changing in accordance with external and internal factors. The results of the study represent an analysis of professions in demand that are of interest to specialists in the field of education, economics, sociology, and psychology.
Application of hybrid educational technologies in the context of a personalized approach in adult education
Authors: Aleksandrova Alevtina , Alekseeva Marina , Lobanova Elena , Feoktistova Svetlana
Published: July 2023

This paper examines the problem of using hybrid educational technologies in the context of the personalized approach in adult education. The innovative use of hybrid technology in pedagogical methods allows faculty and students to communicate on a new technological level. Here it is necessary to consider the motivational component, which is one of the main driving forces in making decisions to continue learning both in the postgraduate period and in professional development. The article contains statistics from international analytical agencies, obtained from studies of hybrid educational methods. Theoretical analysis of the literature has allowed us to find out that the problem is considered widely enough by researchers around the world, which gives us the right to address the problem of hybrid learning as the main point in the personalization of the educational process in the education of the adult population.
Snapshot of Photovoltaics − May 2023
Authors: Jäger-Waldau Arnulf
Published: July 2023

In 2022 the cumulative installed photovoltaic electricity generation capacity increased to over 1 TW, 10 years after it reached the 100 GW level in 2012. In 2022, overall investment in renewable energy has increased by 16% to USD 499 billion compared to USD 953 billion for fossil fuels, which saw an increase of 6%. Investments in solar photovoltaics accounted for USD 301.5 billion or 60% of the renewable energy investments. The annual installations of solar photovoltaic electricity generation systems increased by about 40% to over 230 GWp in 2022. Compared to 2021, the number of countries which installed 1 GWp/year or more has increased by almost 80% to 32. Despite the increase in hardware costs for solar photovoltaic systems and battery storage, both markets had a strong growth, driven by the soaring energy prices in 2022. The increase of the levelised costs for solar photovoltaic electricity was well below the increase of electricity generated with fossil fuels. The electrification of heating, transport and industry will create additional demand for renewable electricity, including solar, if we want to stay on track for not more than 1.5 °C global temperature increase.
American bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus) distribution, impact on native amphibians and management priorities in San Carlos, Uruguay
Authors: Laufer Gabriel , Gobel Noelia , Kacevas Nadia , Lado Ignacio
Published: July 2023

Biological invasions are a major cause of biodiversity and ecosystem services loss. However, information on distribution and impacts is limited for many alien species, restricting the development of local management measures. The aim of this study is: to identify the current situation of the American bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus) invasion focus in San Carlos (Maldonado, Uruguay); to evaluate its impacts on native anurans; and to provide management tools. Between 2017 and 2019, 75 permanent ponds were sampled, finding an expanding bullfrog population (occupying 32 ponds, in 16.5 km2). Results show that native anuran richness was lower in the invaded ponds. Observed impacts were greater for the aquatic frogPseudis minuta, probably due to greater encounter rates with the invader. The abundance of tadpoles was also lower in the invaded ponds. The local pond network was explored using graph theory, evaluating its topological role and centrality. In this network, a list of priority ponds was generated to prevent local bullfrog expansion. Given the relatively small size of this population, eradication seems feasible. Focusing on the key nodes could prevent further expansion, by using spatial prioritization to organize the recommended management of the pond network.
Stripping Massage and Literature Review in Post-Thoracoscopic Chest Pain Management
Authors: Hsu Jiun , Yu Sheng-Pin , Pan Chien-Te , Huang Pei-Ming
Published: July 2023

The aim of this randomized study was to investigate whether stripping massage (SM) of myofascial trigger points in the lower rhomboid muscle could alleviate chest pain in patients following thoracoscopic surgery. In addition, a literature review was conducted to assess the effectiveness of various pain management techniques. Sixty adult patients who reported a visual analog scale (VAS) score of 4 or higher were randomly assigned to receive conventional analgesics alone (conventional group) or combined with SM twice daily for 2 weeks (SM group). VAS scores and the use of additional analgesics were evaluated on postoperative days 1, 3, 7, 14, and 30. Using the PubMed and Cochrane Library databases, a review of current pain management techniques was carried out up to January 31, 2022. A subgroup analysis was also performed to examine the treatment effect during different surgical periods and techniques. Results showed that the SM group had significantly lower VAS scores on postoperative days 3, 7, 14, and 30 (p < 0.001), as well as a shorter hospitalization duration and reduced need for additional analgesics (p < 0.001). The literature review included a total of 20 studies (2,342 cases of chest pain relief after thoracoscopic surgery), which indicated that serratus anterior plane (SAP) blocks were commonly used as a perioperative approach to reduce pain and opioid consumption. SM and SAP can both serve as adjuvant treatments for chest pain in patients following thoracoscopic surgery, with SM being a safe and noninvasive pain control option after hospital discharge.
Auto-Bäcklund transformations and analytic solutions of a generalized (4 + 1)-dimensional variable-coefficient Fokas equation for the shallow water waves
Authors: Chen Yu-Qi , Tian Bo , Shen Yuan , Zhou Tian-Yu
Published: July 2023

In this paper, we investigate a generalized (4 + 1)-dimensional variable-coefficient Fokas equation for the shallow water waves. Through the truncated Painlevé expansion, we give the auto-Bäcklund transformations. Based on the Hirota method, we get the two-soliton solutions. With different choices of certain variable coefficients, we observe some phenomena of the two solitons. We obtain the ring-type and periodic-type two solitons. In addition, we derive the resonant two solitons with the linear, hyperbolic, and periodic types.
Translating politeness on public notices with a directive function in Thessaloniki
Authors: Lees Christopher
Published: July 2023

This paper examines notices with a directive function that have been translated from Greek into English in the
public spaces of Thessaloniki. In particular, it explores the ways in which Greek politeness is expressed and how this politeness
is rendered in the English translation of the original Greek texts. The paper uses photographic data collected in 2020. Using Brown and Levinson’s (1987) concept of
face, the methodology used is a combination of the qualitative ethnographic approach employed in contemporary linguistic landscape
research and Bourdieu’s habitus approach used in the sociology of translation. The analysis shows that the translations examined
often retain aspects of Greek politeness strategies, affecting the message of the English target text to varying degrees.
Managing polysemy in terminological resources*
Authors: L’Homme Marie-Claude
Published: July 2023

Polysemy, even when it is considered within specialized domains, is a recurrent phenomenon and the topic is debated from time to time in terminology literature. Part of this literature still advocates ways to prevent polysemy. Another portion recognizes the prevalence of polysemy, especially in specialized corpora, but considers it from the perspective of other phenomena, such as ambiguity, indeterminacy, categorization or variation. Although the number of perspectives on meaning have increased over the years, the treatment of polysemy in terminological resources is still unsatisfactory. This article first shows that polysemy is an integral part of specialized communication and that there are different kinds of domain-specific polysemy. Then, it reviews selected perspectives that have been taken on polysemy in terminology literature. The treatment of 45 polysemous lexical items in four specialized resources is then analysed. Finally, different methods based on lexical semantics are proposed to account for polysemy in terminological resources.
Comparative study between charge and spin thermoelectric figure of merits in an antiferromagnetic ring
Authors: Bhattacharya Ranjini , Maiti Santanu K
Published: July 2023

Considering the unique and diverse characteristic features of antiferromagnetic (AFM) systems, here in our work, we explore spin-dependent thermoelectric behavior in an AFM ring geometry. A reasonably large (

≫

1

) spin figure of merit, referred to as Z

S

T, is obtained under suitable input conditions. Two important prerequisites are (i) breaking the symmetry among up and down spin sub-Hamiltonians and (ii) generating different asymmetric transmission line shapes across a Fermi energy for two opposite spin electrons. Describing the physical system within a tight-binding framework, where spin-dependent scattering occurs due to the interaction of itinerant electrons with local magnetic moments via the usual spin-moment exchange interaction, we compute all the thermoelectric quantities based on Landauer integrals following the Green’s function technique. The behavior of charge figure of merit, denoted as Z

C

T, is also discussed along with Z

S

T. Though Z

C

T reaches above unity, it is much smaller compared to Z

S

T. This is the key finding of our investigation. To make the present communication a self-contained one, we compare the results with another arrangement of magnetic moments in a ring-like geometry and in a chain-like one. Our analysis gives a suitable hint that in the presence of spin-dependent scattering, much more favorable energy conversion can be substantiated.
Progress with the regulation of radiation safety during recovery and removal of spent nuclear fuel from the site for temporary storage at Andreeva Bay on the Kola Peninsula
Authors: Simakov A , Sneve M K , Abramov Y , Grigoryev A , Goncharenko G , Siegien K , Proskuryakova N , Semenova M , Smith G M
Published: July 2023

In the 1960s, a shore technical base (STB) was established at Andreeva Bay on the Kola Peninsula, in northwest Russia. The STB maintained nuclear submarines and the nuclear icebreaker fleet, receiving and storing fresh and spent nuclear fuel (SNF) as well as solid and liquid radioactive waste (RW). It was subsequently re-designated as a site for temporary storage (STS) for SNF and RW. Over time, the SNF storage facilities partly lost their containment functions, leading to radioactive contamination of workshops and the site above permitted values. The technological and engineering infrastructure at the site was also significantly degraded as well as the condition of the stored SNF. At present, the STS Andreeva Bay facility is under decommissioning. This paper describes progress with the creation of safe working measures for workers involved in site remediation and SNF recovery operations, including the determination of safe shift times in high radiation areas, as part of overall optimization of safety. Results are presented for the successful application of these measures in the period 2019–2021, during which time significant SNF recovery and removal operations were completed without incident. Significant important experience has been gained to support safe removal of remaining SNF, including the most hazardous degraded fuel, as well as recovery of other higher level RW and decommissioning of the old storage buildings and structures.
A computational approach to restoration phenomena during annealing of rolled Cu-2Be: recrystallization, grain growth and abnormal grain growth
Authors: Kalaki A , Vafaeenezhad H , Mirahmadi D , Hirsch J
Published: July 2023

In this study, an integrated paradigm was developed for the simulation of static recrystallization (SRX) after cold rolling of a Cu-2Be alloy. The proposed framework also models with the normal and abnormal grain growth (AGG) of the after transient recrystallization through post-rolling annealing when stored and interfacial energies are varying. The simulation of AGG was done to study the influence of precipitates and sub-boundaries. The initial stored energy as a result of deformation was calculated. The finite element analysis was used to compute the heterogeneous distribution of stored energy due to heterogeneous deformation and is then incorporated to Monte Carlo (MC) algorithm to attain SRX grain size and kinetics. The stored energy assigned to the as-rolled grain micrograph is introduced to the MC simulation as the initial condition considering the size-scale of the calculation domain. The effects of the Zener drag pressure stemming from the presence of second phase particles on the recrystallization progress was also incorporated into the MC model. To evaluate the simulation predictions, the numerical results of the SRX fractions and grain sizes after cold rolling was studied and compared to the experimental ones, and a reasonable accordance is achieved. The numerical results presented that precipitates and sub-boundaries in cooperation take a significant role in persuading AGG by wetting alongside triple junctions. To validate the quantitative results, SRX transformation kinetics has been investigated using the differential scanning calorimetry.
Magnetic resonance fingerprinting based thermometry (MRFT): application to ex vivo imaging near DBS leads
Authors: Qian Enlin , Poojar Pavan , Fung Maggie , Jin Zhezhen , Vaughan John Thomas , Shrivastava Devashish , Gultekin David , Fernandes Tiago , Geethanath Sairam
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this study is to demonstrate the first work of T
1-based magnetic resonance thermometry using magnetic resonance fingerprinting (dubbed MRFT). We compared temperature estimation of MRFT with proton resonance frequency shift (PRFS) thermometry on ex vivo bovine muscle. We demonstrated MRFT’s feasibility in predicting temperature on ex vivo bovine muscles with deep brain stimulation (DBS) lead. B
0 maps generated from MRFT were compared with gold standard B
0 maps near the DBS lead. MRFT and PRFS estimated temperatures were compared in the presence of motion. All experiments were performed on a 3 Tesla whole-body GE Premier system with a 21-channel receive head coil (GE Healthcare, Milwaukee, WI). Four fluoroptic probes were used to measure the temperature at the center of a cold muscle (probe 1), the room temperature water bottle (probe 2), and the center and periphery of the heated muscle (probes 3 and 4). We selected regions of interest (ROIs) around the location of the probes and used simple linear regression to generate the temperature sensitivity calibration equations that convert T
1 maps and Δs maps to temperature maps. We then repeated the same setup and compared MRFT and PRFS thermometry temperature estimation with gold standard probe measurements. For the MRFT experiment on DBS lead, we taped the probe to the tip of the DBS lead and used a turbo spin echo sequence to induce heating near the lead. We selected ROIs around the tip of the lead to compare MRFT temperature estimation with probe measurements and compared with PRFS temperature estimation. Vendor-supplied B
0 mapping sequence was acquired to compare with MRFT-generated B
0 maps. We found strong linear relationships (R
2 > 0.958) between T
1 and temperature and Δs and temperatures in our temperature sensitivity calibration experiment. MRFT and PRFS thermometry both accurately predict temperature (RMSE < 1.55 °C) compared to probe measurements. MRFT estimated temperature near DBS lead has a similar trend as the probe temperature. Both B
0 maps show inhomogeneities around the lead. MRFT estimated temperature is less sensitive to motion.
Flexible, highly sensitive and reliable piezocapacitive pressure sensor with honeycomb-like microarchitecture fabricated using filament-processed mold
Authors: Su Yue , Zhang Rui , Liu Kun , Chang Yukuan , Mao Xurui , Zhang Xu
Published: July 2023

Highly sensitive flexible pressure sensors have been extensively studied due to their promising applications in many fields. Various sensing mechanisms have been proposed to convert pressure into a readable electrical signal, among which piezocapacitive presents advantages due to its simple structure and convenient integration. The modification of the dielectric layer composing these sensors is a common strategy to improve their sensing performance. In this paper, we propose the fabrication of a novel capacitive-based flexible pressure sensor with honeycomb-like microarchitecture by using femtosecond laser filament based far-field technique. The fabricated flexible sensing device is assembled face-to-face with two layers of micro-structured polydimethylsiloxane thin films that is duplicated from laser filament-processed silicon mold. The as-prepared flexible sensor features excellent sensing performance with high reliability, and enables detection of multi-modal signals, including pressure, proximity, and bending. Owing to the advantages mentioned above, the obtained flexible pressure sensor can be attached on non-planar human skin to monitor the physiological signals as well as joint deformation during exercise, revealing it great application potential in cutting-edge fields, such as robotic tactility.
Novel cobalt lead ferrite (CPFO)/Ps nanocomposites with enhanced structure, optical and dielectric properties
Authors: Abouhaswa A S , El komy G M , Abomostafa H M
Published: July 2023

Hexa-spinel ferrite nanoparticles of Cobalt Lead Ferrite (CPFO) were prepared by a flash auto combustion method, while xCPFO/PS (x = 0, 2.5, 5, and 7.5 wt%) nanocomposite films were synthesized by casting method. The diffraction pattern and Rietveld refinement of CPFO nanoparticles proved that they have a face-centred cubic spinel and a hexagonal structure. HRTEM micrographs of cobalt lead ferrite (CPFO) nanoparticles show an average particle size of around 30 nm. FESEM cross-section images of CPFO/PS nanocomposite films showed CPFO nanoparticles dispersed in the PS matrix. All optical characteristics of the synthesized nanocomposite films, including absorbance, transmittance, direct and indirect energy band gap, Urbach energy, excitation coefficient, and refractive index, were investigated using a UV-visible spectrophotometer examination. The direct optical energy band gap lowered from 4.533 eV to 4.368 eV, and the indirect energy optical bandgap lowered from 4.337 eV to 4.146 eV, while the Urbach energy increased from 0.103 eV to 0.209 eV with increasing the nanofillers from 0 to 7.5 wt%. Broadband dielectric spectroscopy was used over a wide frequency range (0.1 Hz–1 MHz). The dielectric real permittivity (ε′), the dissipation factor tan (δ) and the electric modulus (M′&M′′) measurements were studied. CPFO nanoparticles’ addition significantly enhanced the dielectric real permittivity (ε′), the dissipation factor tan (δ), and the ac conductivity of all nanocomposites.
Evaluation of the effectiveness of energetic thermal electrons on the excitation of the ionospheric red 6300 Å airglow
Authors: Birba M , Prokopiou I , Veldes G P
Published: July 2023

In this paper we use previously calculated ionosphere electron temperatures Tein order to estimate the 6300 Å (red) airglow intensity enhancements attributed to thermal electrons from the tail of a Maxwellian electron distribution of sufficiently increased electron temperature. Then, we compare our results with the relevant observed measurements and we comment on the quality of the comparison and the possible causes of the differences. We also calculate the airglow intensity characteristic rise and decay times and compare them to the experimental ones, and we investigate the origin of the electrons which excite the red airglow. In the end, we assess the departure of the ionosphere electron energy distribution from a purely Maxwellian one, and the role of the electron elastic and inelastic collisions with the other components of the ionospheric F-region.
Out-of-equilibrium gene expression fluctuations in the presence of extrinsic noise
Authors: Biondo Marta , Singh Abhyudai , Caselle Michele , Osella Matteo
Published: July 2023

Cell-to-cell variability in protein concentrations is strongly affected by extrinsic noise, especially for highly expressed genes. Extrinsic noise can be due to fluctuations of several possible cellular factors connected to cell physiology and to the level of key enzymes in the expression process. However, how to identify the predominant sources of extrinsic noise in a biological system is still an open question. This work considers a general stochastic model of gene expression with extrinsic noise represented as fluctuations of the different model rates, and focuses on the out-of-equilibrium expression dynamics. Combining analytical calculations with stochastic simulations, we characterize how extrinsic noise shapes the protein variability during gene activation or inactivation, depending on the prevailing source of extrinsic variability, on its intensity and timescale. In particular, we show that qualitatively different noise profiles can be identified depending on which are the fluctuating parameters. This indicates an experimentally accessible way to pinpoint the dominant sources of extrinsic noise using time-coarse experiments.
Development of a shaper and discriminator chip with time walk compensation for HFRS-TPC detector
Authors: Yang Mingyu , Qian Yi , Pu Tianlei , Sun Zhikun , Lu Weijian , Zhang Jiarui , Liu Zhengqiang
Published: July 2023

In this paper, a shaper and discriminator ASIC chip with
time-walk compensation(TWC) is designed using 180 nm CMOS
technology for a TPC detector which will be assembled on High energy
FRagment Separator(HFRS) beamlines under construction. It comprises
a fast CR-RC shaper, two comparators, and a TWC module. The peak
time of the shaper is 30 ns, and the propagation delay of the
comparator is 2.4 ns (25 mV Overdrive). When the dynamic range of
the TPC output charge is from 10 fC to 1000 fC, the time error of the
trigger signal produced by the ASIC was measured to be less than
2 ns.
Amplified seasonal range in precipitation minus evaporation
Authors: Allan Richard P
Published: July 2023

Climate warming is intensifying the global water cycle, including the rate of fresh water flux between the atmosphere and the surface, determined by precipitation minus evaporation (P−E). Surpluses or deficits of fresh water impact societies and ecosystems, so it is important to monitor and understand how and why P−E patterns and their seasonal range are changing across the globe. Here, annual maximum and minimum P−E and their changes are diagnosed globally over land and ocean using observation-based datasets and CMIP6 climate model experiments covering 1950–2100. Seasonal minimum P−E is negative across much of the globe, apart from the Arctic, mid-latitude oceans and the tropical warm pool. In the global mean, P−E maximum increases and P−E minimum decreases by around 3%–4% per ∘C of global warming from 1995–2014 to 2080–2100 in the ensemble mean of an intermediate greenhouse gas emission scenario. Over land, there is less coherence across the 1960–2020 datasets, but an increase in the seasonal range in P−E emerges in future projections. Patterns of future changes in annual maximum and minimum P−E are qualitatively similar to present day trends with increases in maximum P−E in the equatorial belt and high-latitude regions and decreases in the subtropical subsidence zones. This adds confidence to future projections of a more variable and extreme water cycle but also highlights uncertainties in this response over land.
Unbalanced gain and loss in a quantum photonic system
Authors: Downing Charles Andrew , Reuben Fox Oliver Isaac
Published: July 2023

Theories in physics can provide a kind of map of the physical system under investigation, showing all of the possible types of behavior which may occur. Certain points on the map are of greater significance than others, because they describe how the system responds in a useful or interesting manner. For example, the point of resonance is of particular importance when timing the pushes onto a person sat on a swing. More sophisticatedly, so-called exceptional points have been shown to be significant in optical systems harbouring both gain and loss, as typically described by non-Hermitian Hamiltonians. However, expressly quantum points of interest—be they exceptional points or otherwise—arising in quantum photonic systems have been far less studied. Here we consider a paradigmatic model: a pair of coupled qubits subjected to an unbalanced ratio of gain and loss. We mark on its map several flavours of both exceptional and critical points, each of which are associated with unconventional physical responses. In particular, we uncover the points responsible for characteristic spectral features and for the sudden loss of quantum entanglement in the steady state. Our results provide perspectives for characterizing quantum photonic systems beyond effective non-Hermitian Hamiltonians, and suggest a hierarchy of intrinsically quantum points of interest.
Seven dirty tricks to disrupt an arbitration and the responses of international arbitration law
Authors: Gaillard Emmanuel
Published: July 2023

Disruptions to arbitral proceedings are a well-known phenomenon. At the same time, obstructive behavior is not encountered in every arbitration and most parties will behave in an orderly manner during the course of the arbitration. This, however, does not mean that incidents at the margins of the system of international arbitration should be ignored. If they are not dealt with appropriately, they can spread and infect the entire system. The article focuses on the methodologies available to arbitrators or national courts confronted with tactics developed by litigants in an attempt to disrupt an arbitration to which they had previously consented, and examines seven such attempts as they have developed in the history of international arbitration, together with the responses developed by international arbitration law.
The Mandatory German Breast Implant Registry Law: A Model for Sustainable Implant Registries
Authors: von Fritschen Uwe , Rakhorst Hinne A , Stark Birgit , Ahern Susannah , Prantl Lukas , Fricke Alba
Published: July 2023

Background

Recurrent scandals involving breast implants have revealed that scientific evidence on the performance of these devices is lacking, and passive monitoring systems are not capable of detecting problems at an early stage. The German health authorities therefore decided to implement a prospective, mandatory registry.

Objectives

The aim of this article was to provide information about the advantages of implementing a mandatory registry, the potential hurdles involved, and to establish structural requirements that future registries can use.

Methods

Since 2018, the authors have assisted the German Ministry of Health in refining the Implant Law and its implementation. They adapted an internationally consented dataset, promoted international data amplification and conducted monthly trial inputs for over 2 years. By identifying several key issues they were able to assist in developing solutions.

Results

The cooperation with the authorities was characterized by appreciation of the authors’ expertise and previous international work. Challenges included data privacy issues, federal competence, longitudinal follow-up, and contact data; as well as associated costs and technical solutions for data inclusion and the use of information technology to communicate with stakeholders. Addressing these challenges required considerable interference with personal rights and complementary measures for all stakeholders. Extensive structural precautions were taken to safeguard personal data privacy as far as possible.

Conclusions

The authors’ experience and lessons learned can guide registries seeking to engage in high levels of evidence data. The authors describe their approach, the obstacles they encountered, and the strategies employed to overcome the setbacks of other registries.
Atypical tracheid organization in proximal wood of late Palaeozoic Sigillaria approximata Fontaine et White (Lycopsida)
Authors: D’Antonio Michael P
Published: July 2023

It is thought that arborescent lycopsid cambial expansion kept pace with radial wood growth via tangential broadening of the fusiform initials, resulting in progressive outward expansion in tracheid diameters and an absence of de novo tracheid files. This pattern appears in distal lycopsid axes but has not been investigated in proximal-most trunk vasculature where wood was thickest and primary xylem thinnest. Here, a ground-level trunk vasculature fossil of Sigillaria approximata in transverse section is described. This proximal vasculature diverges from the expectations of the current lycopsid wood production model in two main ways: first, inner and outer wood tracheids have approximately the same lumen diameters, such that there is no trend towards centrifugally increasing lumen diameters; and second, de novo cell files commonly appear within the wood. The outwards rate of cambial circumference expansion closely tracks the outwards rate of new wood tracheid file appearance, suggesting that the addition of new files is the primary way the cambium expanded proximally. Because this vasculature can only be studied in transverse section, the developmental mode producing new files cannot be determined. However, evidence from this specimen is sufficient to demonstrate that arborescent lycopsid wood production was more complex than previously understood.
Synthesis and Meta-analysis of 3 Randomized Trials Conducted in Burkina Faso, Ghana, and Uganda Comparing the Effects of Point-of-Care Tests and Diagnostic Algorithms Versus Routine Care on Antibiotic Prescriptions and Clinical Outcomes in Ambulatory Patients <18 Years of Age With Acute Febrile Illness
Authors: Olliaro Piero , Nkeramahame Juvenal , Horgan Philip , Tinto Halidou , Kiemde François , Baiden Rita , Adjei Alexander , Kapisi James , Hopkins Heidi , Salami Olawale , Moore Catrin E , Dittrich Sabine , Weber Stephan , Ongarello Stefano ,   the ADIP study group, Awor Phyllis , Ekusai-Sebatta Deborah , Hopkins Heidi , Kaawa-Mafigiri David , Kapisi James , Kitutu Freddy Eric , Rutebemberwa Elizeus , Sserwanga Asadu , Adjei Alexander , Baiden Rita , Kukula Vida , Compaoré Adélaïde , Kiemde François , Tinto Halidou , Valia Daniel
Published: July 2023

This meta-analysis included 3 randomized trials conducted in sub-Saharan Africa comparing the effects of point-of-care tests and diagnostic algorithms versus routine care on antibiotic prescriptions and clinical outcomes in ambulatory patients presenting at outpatient facilities with acute uncomplicated febrile illness.
Understanding Health Worker and Community Antibiotic Prescription-Adherence Practices for Acute Febrile Illness: A Nested Qualitative Study in the Shai-Osudoku District of Ghana and the Development of a Training-and-Communication Intervention
Authors: Kukula Vida Ami , Odopey Selase , Arthur Emmanuel , Odonkor Gabriel , Awini Elizabeth , Adjei Alexander , Salami Olawale , Nkeramahame Juvenal , Horgan Philip , Olliaro Piero , Williams John , Baiden Rita
Published: July 2023

Background

The aim was to explore behavioral factors relating to the prescription and communication of prescription-adherence messages for patients with acute febrile illness, from which to develop a training-and-communication (T&C) intervention to be delivered as part of a clinical trial.

Methods

The study undertook a content analysis of primary, qualitative data collection using in-depth interviews and focus group discussions, informed by the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation (COM-B) theory of behavior, the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF), and Behavior Change Wheel (BCW) approach, in health facilities (39 health workers) and communities (66 community members) in the Shai-Osudoku District of Ghana.

Results

Health workers perceive that prescribers' and dispensers' communication with patients is influenced by the following factors: patient’s educational level, existing disease conditions, health worker's workload, patient's religion, language barrier between health worker and patient, outcome of laboratory results, and medicine availability. Community members’ adherence to prescription was influenced by the availability of money and affordability of medicine (outside of provision by the national health insurance scheme), the severity of the condition, work schedule, and forgetfulness.

Conclusions

Our study contributes to knowledge on nesting qualitative methods in a clinical trial and reveals factors that affect the antibiotic prescription communication process. Tailored messages for patient-specific needs can shape antibiotic prescription adherence behavior and ultimately contribute to decreasing the incidence of antibiotic resistance.
Fibroblast growth factor 23 but not copeptin is independently associated with kidney failure and mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Michon-Colin Arthur , Metzger Marie , Bankir Lise , Gauci Cédric , Brunel Mélanie , Baron Stéphanie , Prot-Bertoye Caroline , Stengel Bénédicte , Thervet Eric , Haymann Jean-Philippe , Boffa Jean-Jacques , Vrtovsnik François , Flamant Martin , Houillier Pascal , Prie Dominique , Courbebaisse Marie ,   for the NephroTest Study Group, Flamant Martin , Houillier Pascal , Haymann Jean Philippe , Boffa Jean-Jacques , Thervet Eric , Vrtovsnik François , Stengel Benedicte , Vrtovsnik François , Daugas Eric , Flamant Martin , Vidal-Petiot Emmanuelle , Tabibzadeh Nahid , Jacquot Christian , Karras Alexandre , Roueff Stéphane , Thervet Eric , Houillier Pascal , Courbebaisse Marie , Bertocchio Jean-Philippe , Prot-Bretoye Caroline , Boffa Jean-Jacques , Ronco Pierre , Fessi H , Rondeau Eric , Letavernier Emmanuel , Haymann Jean-Philippe , Metzger Marie , Urena-Torres Pablo
Published: July 2023

Background

Copeptin and intact fibroblast growth factor 23 (iFGF23) increase early during chronic kidney disease (CKD) and may be predictive of unfavourable outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate their respective associations with renal and vital outcomes in CKD patients.

Methods

We included CKD patients from the NephroTest cohort with concomitant measurements of plasma copeptin and iFGF23 concentrations and isotopic glomerular filtration rate measurement (mGFR). The primary endpoint was a composite outcome including kidney failure (KF) (dialysis initiation, pre-emptive transplantation or a 57% decrease of mGFR, corresponding to doubling of serum creatinine) or death before KF. Hazard ratios (HRs) of the primary endpoint associated with log-transformed copeptin and iFGF23 concentrations were estimated by Cox models. The slope of mGFR over time was analysed using a linear mixed model.

Results

A total of 329 CKD patients (243 men, mean age 60.3 ± 14.6 years) were included. Among them, 301 with an mGFR >15 ml/min/1.73 m2 were included in survival and mGFR slope analyses. During a median follow-up of 4.61 years (quartile 1–quartile 3: 3.72–6.07), 61 KFs and 32 deaths occurred. Baseline iFGF23 concentrations were associated with the composite outcome after multiple adjustments {HR 2.72 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.85–3.99]}, whereas copeptin concentrations were not [HR 1.01 (95% CI 0.74–1.39)]. Neither copeptin nor iFGF23 were associated with mGFR slope over time.

Conclusion

Our study shows for the first time in population of CKD patients an independent association between iFGF23 and unfavourable renal and vital outcomes and shows no such association regarding copeptin, encouraging the integration of iFGF23 measurement into the follow-up of CKD.
Global constructive work is associated with ventricular arrhythmias after cardiac resynchronization therapy
Authors: Saffi Hillah , Winsløw Ulrik , Sakthivel Tharsika , Højgaard Emma Vinther , Linde Jesper , Philbert Berit , Vinther Michael , Jøns Christian , Bundgaard Henning , Risum Niels
Published: July 2023

Aims

Non-invasive left ventricular (LV) pressure–strain loops provide a novel method for quantifying myocardial work by incorporating LV pressure in measurements of myocardial deformation. Early studies suggest that myocardial work parameters such as global constructive work (GCW) could be useful and reliable in arrhythmia prediction, particularly in patients undergoing cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the magnitude of GCW was associated with the occurrence of ventricular arrhythmias in patients after CRT.

Methods and results

Patients on guideline-recommended treatment with a CRT defibrillator (CRT-D) were evaluated by 2D speckle-tracking echocardiography including measurements of GCW at least 6 months after implantation. The primary outcome was a composite of appropriate defibrillator therapy and sustained ventricular arrhythmia under the monitor zone. A total of 162 patients [mean age 66 years (±10), 122 males (75%)] were included. Sixteen (10%) patients experienced the primary outcome during a median follow-up of 18 months (interquartile range: 12–25) after the performance of index echocardiography. Patients with a below-median GCW (<1473 mmHg%) had a hazard ratio (HR) for the outcome of 8.14 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.83–36.08], P = 0.006 compared with patients above the median in a univariate model and remained an independent predictor after multivariate adjustment for the estimated glomerular filtration rate and QRS duration [HR 4.75 (95% CI: 1.01–22.28), P < 0.05].

Conclusion

In patients treated with CRT-D, a GCW below median level was associated with a five-fold increase in the risk of ventricular arrhythmias.
Don’t judge a book by its cover: a case report of apolipoprotein A-IV cardiac amyloidosis
Authors: Basel Allaw Mohammed , Sinha Arjun , Ghafourian Kambiz , Avery Ryan , Weinberg Richard L , Lomasney Jon W , Shah Sanjiv J , Patel Ravi B
Published: July 2023

Background

To date, at least 20 different amyloidogenic proteins have been documented. Growing evidence suggests that despite being part of the universal amyloid proteome, apolipoprotein A-IV can be amyloidogenic, accounting for less than 1% of cases.

Case summary

A 75-year-old woman was admitted for paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnoea and intermittent exertional shortness of breath and was found to be in acute heart failure. The patient underwent intravenous diuretic therapy and was discharged after decongestion. She then underwent a battery of outpatient tests to determine aetiology of her heart failure. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging showed severe concentric left ventricular hypertrophy and diffuse late gadolinium enhancement, concerning for amyloidosis, but serologic evaluation for amyloidogenic light chain (AL) amyloidosis was negative. Tc 99m pyrophosphate (PYP) scan showed Grade 2 uptake at 1 h that was only moderately suggestive of transthyretin (TTR) amyloidosis. She ultimately received a right heart catheterization and endomyocardial biopsy, which showed apolipoprotein A-IV amyloid deposition within Congo red-positive areas of the endomyocardial specimen. The patient continues to report dyspnoea on exertion but has avoided additional heart failure admissions with intensification of her diuretic regimen.

Discussion

In this case, nuclear PYP scan to evaluate for TTR amyloidosis demonstrated focal PYP uptake, but endomyocardial biopsy demonstrated apolipoprotein A-IV deposition without evidence of TTR amyloidosis. Our case increases knowledge of this rare form of amyloidosis, suggests that it may result in false positive nuclear PYP results, and highlights the importance of its evaluation, particularly in circumstances in which investigations do not reveal definitive evidence of AL or TTR amyloidosis.
Production of Rhizopus oryzae lipase using optimized Yarrowia lipolytica expression system
Authors: Vidal Lea , Dong Zehui , Olofsson Kim , Nordberg Karlsson Eva , Nicaud Jean-Marc
Published: July 2023

Yarrowia lipolytica is an alternative yeast for heterologous protein production. Based on auto-cloning vectors, a set of 18 chromogenic cloning vectors was developed, each containing one of the excisable auxotrophic selective markers URA3ex, LYS5ex, and LEU2ex, and one of six different promoters: the constitutive pTEF, the phase dependent hybrid pHp4d, and the erythritol-inducible promoters from pEYK1 and pEYL1 derivatives. These vectors allowed to increase the speed of cloning of the gene of interest. In parallel, an improved new rProt recipient strain JMY8647 was developed by abolishing filamentation and introducing an auxotrophy for lysine (Lys−), providing an additional marker for genetic engineering. Using this cloning strategy, the optimal targeting sequence for Rhizopus oryzae ROL lipase secretion was determined. Among the eight targeting sequences, the SP6 signal sequence resulted in a 23% improvement in the lipase activity compared to that obtained with the wild-type ROL signal sequence. Higher specific lipase activities were obtained using hybrid erythritol-inducible promoters pHU8EYK and pEYL1-5AB, 1.9 and 2.2 times, respectively, when compared with the constitutive pTEF promoter. Two copy strains produce a 3.3 fold increase in lipase activity over the pTEF monocopy strain (266.7 versus 79.7 mU/mg).
MuLan-Methyl—multiple transformer-based language models for accurate DNA methylation prediction
Authors: Zeng Wenhuan , Gautam Anupam , Huson Daniel H
Published: July 2023

Transformer-based language models are successfully used to address massive text-related tasks. DNA methylation is an important epigenetic mechanism, and its analysis provides valuable insights into gene regulation and biomarker identification. Several deep learning–based methods have been proposed to identify DNA methylation, and each seeks to strike a balance between computational effort and accuracy. Here, we introduce MuLan-Methyl, a deep learning framework for predicting DNA methylation sites, which is based on 5 popular transformer-based language models. The framework identifies methylation sites for 3 different types of DNA methylation: N6-adenine, N4-cytosine, and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine. Each of the employed language models is adapted to the task using the “pretrain and fine-tune” paradigm. Pretraining is performed on a custom corpus of DNA fragments and taxonomy lineages using self-supervised learning. Fine-tuning aims at predicting the DNA methylation status of each type. The 5 models are used to collectively predict the DNA methylation status. We report excellent performance of MuLan-Methyl on a benchmark dataset. Moreover, we argue that the model captures characteristic differences between different species that are relevant for methylation. This work demonstrates that language models can be successfully adapted to applications in biological sequence analysis and that joint utilization of different language models improves model performance. Mulan-Methyl is open source, and we provide a web server that implements the approach.