bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Martensitic High Carbon–Nitrogen Steel Produced by Casting at Low Pressure
Authors: Coha-Vesga Pablo Miguel , Mendoza-Oliveros Martín Emilio , Pérez-Villamil Fabio Raúl , Coury Francisco Gil , Mujica-Roncery Lais
Published: October 2022

Nitrogen‐containing steels have become an attractive material in industrial fields due to their excellent mechanical properties. Nevertheless, the current manufacturing methods to produce nitrogen steels are linked to technologies with high working pressures. Alloying elements such as Cr, Mn, and Mo enhance the solubility of nitrogen in the melt, which allows the production at atmospheric pressure. Herein, carbon–nitrogen martensitic steels are produced at low pressure (7 × 105 Pa). The composition is designed through the CALPHAD method using two carbon contents (0.7 and 1.3 wt%). The alloy is produced in an induction furnace under N2 atmosphere to mitigate desorption. Thermomechanical and heat treatments are performed. The alloys are analyzed using optical emission spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, optical microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy‐dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The mechanical evaluation is conducted using hardness analysis. The steel presents a nitrogen content of 0.15 wt%, in agreement with the thermodynamic calculations. SEM and EDS results show the presence of Cr and Nb precipitates in a martensitic structure. The highest hardness values are obtained in specimens heat treated by tempering at 400 °C for 2 h and air cooling, achieving 57.4 and 59.7 Hardness Rockwell C for samples with 0.7 and 1.3 wt% C, respectively.
Insight Into Factors Governing Formation, Synthesis and Stereochemical Configuration of DNA Adducts Formed by Mitomycins
Authors: Paz Manuel M. , Champeil Elise
Published: October 2022

Mitomycin C, (MC), an antitumor drug used in the clinics, is a DNA alkylating agent. Inert in its native form, MC is reduced to reactive mitosenesin cellulowhich undergo nucleophilic attack by DNA bases to form monoadducts as well as interstrand crosslinks (ICLs). These properties constitute the molecular basis for the cytotoxic effects of the drug. The mechanism of DNA alkylation by mitomycins has been studied for the past 30 years and, until recently, the consensus was that drugs of the mitomycins family mainly target CpG sequences in DNA. However, that paradigm was recently challenged. Here, we relate the latest research on both MC and dicarbamoylmitomycin C (DMC), a synthetic derivative of MC which has been used to investigate the regioselectivity of mitomycins DNA alkylation as well as the relationship between mitomycins reductive activation pathways and DNA adducts stereochemical configuration. We also review the different synthetic routes to access mitomycins nucleoside adducts and oligonucleotides containing MC/DMC DNA adducts located at a single position. Finally, we briefly describe the DNA structural modifications induced by MC and DMC adducts and how site specifically modified oligonucleotides have been used to elucidate the role each adduct plays in the drugs cytotoxicity.
Evaluation of delaying effects of different short‐term dosage regimens of topical ciprofloxacin on corneal ulcer healing in an avian model
Authors: Tavangarrad Niloofar , Mosleh N. , Shomali Tahoora , Namazi Fatemeh , Masoudian Maliheh
Published: October 2022

Background

Knowledge on possible delaying effects of topical ciprofloxacin on corneal ulcer healing is scarce in avian patients.

Objectives

The study evaluates effects of different dosage regimens of topical ciprofloxacin on healing of corneal ulcer in an avian model.

Methods

One hundred and fifty adult layers were randomly allocated into two equal categories each consisted of 5 groups (n = 15): 1, negative control (NC, normal cornea); 2, positive control (PC) (birds with experimental corneal ulcer); and 3, 4 and 5, birds with corneal injury that received ciprofloxacin 0.3% topically q6h, q8h and q12h, respectively for 3 (category 1) or 5 days (category 2). Corneas were excised for histopathological evaluation and determination of MMP‐9 expression.

Results

While no significant difference was observed in daily‐measured fluorescein‐stained ulcer size among ciprofloxacin‐treated birds and PC group in category 1, birds in PC group of category 2 had significantly smaller ulcers as compared to antibiotic‐treated birds at the end of experiment (p < 0.01 for all cases). Histopathological evaluations at the end of the experiment showed no significant difference among PC and ciprofloxacin‐treated birds of both categories for almost all of the assayed parameters. Over expression of MMP‐9 mRNA was observed in PC group after 3 and 5 days of ulcer induction compared to NC groups. Its expression in ciprofloxacin‐treated birds of both categories remained close to PC groups.

Conclusions

While ciprofloxacin administration for 3 days does not affect ulcer healing, it delays healing process at the end of 5 days of treatments in an avian model of corneal ulcer injury. This delaying effect is not associated with a drastic change in MMP‐9 expression.
Biopolymers as alternatives to synthetic polymers in flame‐retarded polymeric composites: A study of fire and mechanical behaviors
Authors: Teles Fernando , Antunes Filipe
Published: October 2022

The impact of polymeric materials on the environment is a growing concern and an incentive for their commercial appeal. In composites, the trend is to replace matrices of synthetic polymers (SPs) with biopolymers (BPs) to develop bio‐based composites. The increasing demand for such materials has driven their research and application in many industrial sectors, often accompanied by increasingly restrictive fire safety regulations. With the aim of decreasing the flammability of composites, various approaches have been pursued, in particular the use of flame‐retardant (FR) additives. However, at high FR loads, the mechanical properties can be compromised. This article briefly overviews some aspects of the fire behavior and mechanical properties of BPs and bio‐based composites. Using a chart‐based framework and quadrant‐based quantitative analysis, the fire and mechanical properties of flame‐retarded composite formulations are evaluated simultaneously, aimed at comparing the effects of BPs and SPs in flame‐retarded polymeric composites in relation with other variables.
Modeling the growth of diverse microorganisms during feast‐famine enrichment
Authors: Amer Abdelrahman , Kim Younggy
Published: October 2022

Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are biodegradable polymers that can decrease the severe environmental pollution of petroleum plastics. PHA production by mixed microbial communities has been extensively studied to lower the high PHA prices. However, the competition between distinct microbial communities during the enrichment of PHA accumulators in mixed cultures has not been widely investigated. Thus, in this work, we developed a mathematical model for the competition between PHA accumulators and non‐PHA accumulators in the feast‐famine enrichment strategy. The developed model successfully simulated published lab‐scale experimental data for Plasticicumulans acidivorans, a well‐studied PHA accumulator that can store PHA up to 90% of the cell weight. The growth kinetics for both PHA and non‐PHA accumulators were estimated and compared to the values in the literature. The uncertainties in the model kinetics were studied by expanding the model to include additional sub‐biomass components for each heterotrophic group. As a result, the microbial diversity of microbial communities was observed to influence the enrichment of PHA accumulators in mixed cultures. Additionally, the calibrated model was applied to investigate the cultivation conditions, such as cycle lengths, carbon‐to‐nitrogen ratio, and solids retention time for successful P. acidivorans enrichment in mixed cultures. The developed model can be applied to control the cultivation and enrichment of PHA accumulators in large‐scale PHA production systems.

Practitioner Points

A new model for the enrichment of PHA accumulators was developed.

The model can simulate PHA accumulation by enriched cultures.

The model was calibrated and validated for Plasticicumulans acidivorans.

The impact of microbial diversity on enriching PHA accumulators was investigated.

Short cycles (<12 h) and SRT (<10 d) are suggested for successful enrichment.
Dependence of the Electronic Structure of β‐Si6−zAlzOzN8−z on the (Al,O) Concentration z and on the Temperature
Authors: Khan Saleem Ayaz , Šipr Ondřej , Vackář Jiří , Minár Ján
Published: October 2022

β‐Si6−zAlzOzN8−z is a prominent example of systems suitable as hosts for creating materials for light‐emitting diodes (LEDs). In this work, the electronic structure of a series of semiordered and disordered β‐Si6−zAlzOzN8−z systems is investigated by means of ab initio calculations, using the FLAPW and Green function KKR methods. Finite temperature effects are included by averaging over thermodynamic configurations within the alloy analogy model. We found that the dependence of the electronic structure on the (Al,O) concentration z is similar for semiordered and disordered structures. The electronic band gap decreases with increasing z by about 1.5 eV when going from z=0 to z=2. States at the top of the valence band are mostly associated with N atoms whereas the states at the bottom of the conduction band are mostly derived from O atoms. Increasing the temperature leads to a shift of the bottom of the conduction band to lower energies. The amount of this shift increases with increasing z.
Classification, Distribution, and Biodiversity of Terrestrial Ecosystems in the Gulf of Guinea Oceanic Islands
Authors: Dauby Gilles , Stévart Tariq , Barberá Patricia , Benitez Laura , do Céu Madureira Maria , Soares Filipa C. , Viennois Gaëlle , de Lima Ricardo F.
Published: October 2022

The oceanic islands of the Gulf of Guinea display a large diversity of environmental conditions and biological communities, whose interactions have contributed to the development of a great variety of ecosystems, from mangroves to montane grasslands. Human activities have extensively and profoundly altered many of these natural ecosystems over the past five centuries. We review key studies to propose an updated classification map of terrestrial ecosystems, taking advantage of up-to-date spatial information on abiotic gradients and biological distributions. To guide future research and conservation programs, we highlight challenges and pending questions regarding our understanding of the structure, integrity, and dynamics of terrestrial ecosystems in these islands.
When Regulatory Power and Industrial Ambitions Collide: The “Brussels Effect,” Lead Markets, and the GDPR
Authors: Martin Nicholas , Ebbers Frank
Published: October 2022

This chapter explores certain innovation-promoting effects of the GDPR and their geographical dispersion. It also shows that while the GDPR has sparked substantial innovation and the birth of a new industry in the field of “privacy tech,” or technological solutions for data protection compliance, this industry is largely dominated by North America-based companies. Despite the GDPR’s origin in Europe – and despite the hopes of European policymakers that it might spark a wave of new technology innovation in Europe – European companies seem to have struggled to establish themselves in this market. The chapter draws on two concepts from regulatory studies and innovation studies – the “Brussels effect” and regulation-induced lead markets – to explain this outcome, arguing that this surprising outcome (a European law sparking the birth of a new technology industry in America) derives not from idiosyncratic factors connected to the GDPR or even software industries, but from structural factors related to the logic of regulatory globalization.
Searching for light neutralinos with a displaced vertex at the LHC
Authors: Cottin Giovanna , Helo Juan Carlos , Neill Nicolás A. , Hernández-Pinto Fabián , Wang Zeren Simon
Published: October 2022

Abstract

We study a bino-like light neutralino ($$ {\overset{\sim }{\chi}}_1^0 $$

χ
~

1
0

) produced at the LHC from the decay of a scalar lepton ($$ \tilde{e}_L $$

e
~

L

) through the process pp →$$ \tilde{e}_L $$

e
~

L

→$$ e{\overset{\sim }{\chi}}_1^0 $$
e

χ
~

1
0

in the context of R-parity-violating (RPV) supersymmetry where $$ {\overset{\sim }{\chi}}_1^0 $$

χ
~

1
0

is the lightest supersymmetric particle. For small masses and RPV couplings, the neutralino is naturally long-lived and its decay products can be identified as displaced tracks. Following existing searches, we propose a displaced-vertex search strategy for such a light neutralino with a single RPV coupling switched on, $$ {\lambda}_{111}^{\prime } $$

λ
111
′

, in the mass range 10 GeV ≲ $$ {m}_{{\overset{\sim }{\chi}}_1^0} $$

m

χ
~

1
0

≲ 230 GeV. We perform Monte Carlo simulations and conclude that at the high-luminosity LHC, the proposed search can probe values of $$ {\lambda}_{111}^{\prime } $$

λ
111
′

down to two orders of magnitude smaller than current bounds and up to 40 times smaller than projected limits from monolepton searches.
Automation of antenna subtraction in colour space: gluonic processes
Authors: Chen X. , Gehrmann T. , Glover E. W. N. , Huss A. , Marcoli M.
Published: October 2022

Abstract

We present the colourful antenna subtraction method, a reformulation of the antenna subtraction scheme for next-to-next-to-leading order (NNLO) calculations in QCD. The aim of this new approach is to achieve a general and process-independent construction of the subtraction infrastructure at NNLO. We rely on the predictability of the infrared singularity structure of one- and two-loop amplitudes in colour space to generate virtual subtraction terms and, subsequently, we define an automatable procedure to systematically infer the expression of the real subtraction terms, guided by the correspondence between unintegrated and integrated antenna functions. To demonstrate the applicability of the described approach, we compute the full colour NNLO correction to gluonic three-jet production pp(gg) → ggg, in the gluons-only assumption.
The BACE1-generated C-terminal fragment of the neural cell adhesion molecule 2 (NCAM2) promotes BACE1 targeting to Rab11-positive endosomes
Authors: Keable Ryan , Hu Shangfeng , Pfundstein Grant , Kozlova Irina , Su Feifei , Du Ximing , Yang Hongyuan , Gunnersen Jenny , Schachner Melitta , Leshchyns’ka Iryna , Sytnyk Vladimir
Published: October 2022

Beta-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1), also known as β-secretase, is an aspartic protease. The sorting of this enzyme into Rab11-positive recycling endosomes regulates the BACE1-mediated cleavage of its substrates, however, the mechanisms underlying this targeting remain poorly understood. The neural cell adhesion molecule 2 (NCAM2) is a substrate of BACE1. We show that BACE1 cleaves NCAM2 in cultured hippocampal neurons and NCAM2-transfected CHO cells. The C-terminal fragment of NCAM2 that comprises the intracellular domain and a small portion of NCAM2’s extracellular domain, associates with BACE1. This association is not affected in cells with inhibited endocytosis, indicating that the interaction of NCAM2 and BACE1 precedes the targeting of BACE1 from the cell surface to endosomes. In neurons and CHO cells, this fragment and BACE1 co-localize in Rab11-positive endosomes. Overexpression of full-length NCAM2 or a recombinant NCAM2 fragment containing the transmembrane and intracellular domains but lacking the extracellular domain leads to an increase in BACE1 levels in these organelles. In NCAM2-deficient neurons, the levels of BACE1 are increased at the cell surface and reduced in intracellular organelles. These effects are correlated with increased levels of the soluble extracellular domain of BACE1 in the brains of NCAM2-deficient mice, suggesting increased shedding of BACE1 from the cell surface. Of note, shedding of the extracellular domain of Sez6, a protein cleaved exclusively by BACE1, is reduced in NCAM2-deficient animals. These results indicate that the BACE1-generated fragment of NCAM2 regulates BACE1 activity by promoting the targeting of BACE1 to Rab11-positive endosomes.
A plant-based mutant huntingtin model-driven discovery of impaired expression of GTPCH and DHFR
Authors: Hung Chiu-Yueh , Zhu Chuanshu , Kittur Farooqahmed S. , He Maotao , Arning Erland , Zhang Jianhui , Johnson Asia J. , Jawa Gurpreet S. , Thomas Michelle D. , Ding Tomas T. , Xie Jiahua
Published: October 2022

Pathophysiology associated with Huntington’s disease (HD) has been studied extensively in various cell and animal models since the 1993 discovery of the mutant huntingtin (mHtt) with abnormally expanded polyglutamine (polyQ) tracts as the causative factor. However, the sequence of early pathophysiological events leading to HD still remains elusive. To gain new insights into the early polyQ-induced pathogenic events, we expressed Htt exon1 (Httex1) with a normal (21), or an extended (42 or 63) number of polyQ in tobacco plants. Here, we show that transgenic plants accumulated Httex1 proteins with corresponding polyQ tracts, and mHttex1 induced protein aggregation and affected plant growth, especially root and root hair development, in a polyQ length-dependent manner. Quantitative proteomic analysis of young roots from severely affected Httex1Q63 and unaffected Httex1Q21 plants showed that the most reduced protein by polyQ63 is a GTP cyclohydrolase I (GTPCH) along with many of its related one-carbon (C1) metabolic pathway enzymes. GTPCH is a key enzyme involved in folate biosynthesis in plants and tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) biosynthesis in mammals. Validating studies in 4-week-old R6/2 HD mice expressing a mHttex1 showed reduced levels of GTPCH and dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR, a key folate utilization/alternate BH4 biosynthesis enzyme), and impaired C1 and BH4 metabolism. Our findings from mHttex1 plants and mice reveal impaired expressions of GTPCH and DHFR and may contribute to a better understanding of mHtt-altered C1 and BH4 metabolism, and their roles in the pathogenesis of HD.
AI ethics with Chinese characteristics? Concerns and preferred solutions in Chinese academia
Authors: Zhu Junhua
Published: October 2022

Since Chinese scholars are playing an increasingly important role in shaping the national landscape of discussion on AI ethics, understanding their ethical concerns and preferred solutions is essential for global cooperation on governance of AI. This article, therefore, provides the first elaborated analysis on the discourse on AI ethics in Chinese academia, via a systematic literature review. This article has three main objectives. (1) to identify the most discussed ethical issues of AI in Chinese academia and those being left out (the question of “what”); (2) to analyze the solutions proposed and preferred by Chinese scholars (the question of “how”); and (3) to map out whose voices are dominating and whose are in the marginal (the question of “who”). Findings suggest that in terms of short-term implications, Chinese scholars’ concerns over AI resemble predominantly the content of international ethical guidelines. Yet in terms of long-term implications, there are some significant differences needed to be further addressed in a cultural context. Further, among a wide range of solution proposals, Chinese scholars seem to prefer strong-binding regulations to those weak ethical guidelines. In addition, this article also found that the Chinese academic discourse was dominated by male scholars and those who are from elite universities, which arguably is not a unique phenomenon in China.
Systematic review of urological injury during caesarean section and hysterectomy
Authors: Wei Gavin , Harley Frances , O’Callaghan Michael , Adshead James , Hennessey Derek , Kinnear Ned
Published: October 2022

Introduction and hypothesis

We aim to review iatrogenic bladder and ureteric injuries sustained during caesarean section and hysterectomy.

Methods

A search of Cochrane, Embase, Medline and grey literature was performed using methods pre-published on PROSPERO. Eligible studies described iatrogenic bladder or ureter injury rates during caesarean section or hysterectomy. The 15 largest studies were included for each procedure sub-type and meta-analyses performed. The primary outcome was injury incidence. Secondary outcomes were risk factors and preventative measures.

Results

Ninety-six eligible studies were identified, representing 1,741,894 women. Amongst women undergoing caesarean section, weighted pooled rates of bladder or ureteric injury per 100,000 procedures were 267 or 9 events respectively. Injury rates during hysterectomy varied by approach and pathological condition. Weighted pooled mean rates for bladder injury were 212–997 events per 100,000 procedures for all approaches (open, vaginal, laparoscopic, laparoscopically assisted vaginal and robot assisted) and all pathological conditions (benign, malignant, any), except for open peripartum hysterectomy (6,279 events) and laparoscopic hysterectomy for malignancy (1,553 events). Similarly, weighted pooled mean rates for ureteric injury were 9–577 events per 100,000 procedures for all hysterectomy approaches and pathologies, except for open peripartum hysterectomy (666 events) and laparoscopic hysterectomy for malignancy (814 events). Surgeon inexperience was the prime risk factor for injury, and improved anatomical knowledge the leading preventative strategy.

Conclusions

Caesarean section and most types of hysterectomy carry low rates of urological injury. Obstetricians and gynaecologists should counsel the patient for her individual risk of injury, prospectively establish risk factors and implement preventative strategies.
Unravelling the pharmacological properties of cryptolepine and its derivatives: a mini-review insight
Authors: Tudu Champa Keeya , Bandyopadhyay Anustup , Kumar Manoj , Radha  , Das Tuyelee , Nandy Samapika , Ghorai Mimosa , Gopalakrishnan Abilash Valsala , Proćków Jarosław , Dey Abhijit
Published: October 2022

Cryptolepine (1,5-methyl-10H-indolo[3,2-b]quinoline), an indoloquinoline alkaloid, found in the roots of Cryptolepis sanguinolenta (Lindl.) Schltr (family: Periplocaceae), is associated with the suppression of cancer and protozoal infections. Cryptolepine also exhibits anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-hyperglycemic, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-hypotensive, antipyretic, and antimuscarinic properties. This review of the latest research data can be exploited to create a basis for the discovery of new cryptolepine-based drugs and their analogues in the near future. PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases were searched to select and collect data from the existing literature on cryptolepine and their pharmacological properties. Several in vitro studies have demonstrated the potential of cryptolepine A as an anticancer and antimalarial molecule, which is achieved through inhibiting DNA synthesis and topoisomerase II. This review summarizes the recent developments of cryptolepine pharmacological properties and functional mechanisms, providing information for future research on this natural product.
The Faecal Microbiome of the Wild European Badger Meles meles: A Comparison Against Other Wild Omnivorous Mammals from Across the Globe
Authors: Scott-Baumann James F. , Friedersdorff Jessica C. A. , Villarreal-Ramos Bernardo , King Jonathan , Hopkins Beverley , Pizzey Richard , Rooke David , Hewinson Glyn , Mur Luis A. J.
Published: October 2022

Here we investigate the faecal microbiome of wild European badgers Meles meles using samples collected at post-mortem as part of the All Wales Badger Found Dead study. This is the first published characterisation of the badger microbiome. We initially undertook a sex-matched age comparison between the adult and cub microbiomes, based on sequencing the V3–V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene. Analysis used the QIIME 2 pipeline utilising DADA2 and the Silva database for taxonomy assignment. Fusobacteria appeared to be more abundant in the microbiomes of the cubs than the adults although no significant difference was seen in alpha or beta diversity between the adult and cub badger microbiomes. Comparisons were also made against other wild, omnivorous, mammals’ faecal microbiomes using publicly available data. Significant differences were seen in both alpha and beta diversity between the microbiomes from different species. As a wildlife species of interest to the disease bovine tuberculosis, knowledge of the faecal microbiome could assist in identification of infected badgers. Our work here suggests that, if comparisons were made between the faeces of bTB infected and non-infected badgers, age may not have a significant impact on the microbiome.
Chlamydia psittaci in Faecal Samples of Feral Pigeons (Columba livia forma urbana) in Urban Areas of Lublin city, Poland
Authors: Kowalczyk Katarzyna , Wójcik-Fatla Angelina
Published: October 2022

Pigeons are a typical host and natural reservoir of Chlamydia psittaci, the etiological agent of avian chlamydiosis, considered as a neglected zoonotic diseases. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of C. psittaci in faecal samples of feral pigeons (Columba livia forma urbana) as a potential source of infection related to the presence of synanthropic birds in urban areas. A total of 143 samples of dry and fresh faeces of feral pigeons, were collected in the city of Lublin (Poland), from April to September 2021. Molecular detection of C. psittaci was performed by nested-PCR and real-time PCR, confirmed by sequencing. Among the collected samples, 5 positive results were obtained in nested-PCR (3.5%), while in real-time PCR, the number of positive samples increased to 11 (7.7%). The positive samples showed 100% identity to the C. psittaci strain AMK (CP047319.1). C. psittaci was found in 7 out of 111 (6.3%) faecal samples collected in public places, and in 4 out of 32 (12.5%) samples from the nesting site (4.9% and 2.8% among a total of 143 samples, respectively). The infection was detected in both dry and fresh faeces (9.1% and 4.5%, respectively). The highest number of positive results was obtained in June—5 (3.5%). Feral pigeons occurring in urban areas are a natural reservoir of C. psittaci posing a potential risk of zoonotic infections. However, further studies on exposure to contaminated pigeon faeces in terms of occupational and non-occupational risk of chlamydiosis are needed.
Two-step Shapley-solidarity value for cooperative games with coalition structure
Authors: Zou Rong , Li Wenzhong , Uetz Marc , Xu Genjiu
Published: October 2022

This paper proposes an alternative for the two-step Shapley value for cooperative games with coalition structure that has earlier been proposed by Kamijo. The value is based on the idea that within a union of players, worth should be distributed based on the solidarity principle. Specifically, we propose a two-step Shapley-solidarity value, in which the surplus of a union’s Shapley value in the quotient game is distributed equally among the union’s members, and players obtain the solidarity value of the respective subgame within their union. We provide an intuitive procedural characterization for this value and give three axiomatizations to pinpoint the differences to comparable values.
Iatrogenic nerve injury in primary and revision reverse total shoulder arthroplasty
Authors: Hruby Laura A. , Unterfrauner I. , Casari F. , Kriechling P. , Bouaicha S. , Wieser K.
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Iatrogenic nerve injury in orthopedic surgery can impair functional outcomes. During the last years, a steady increase in the number of performed reverse total shoulder arthroplasties has been reported and complications associated with this procedure are continuously described. Neurological complications, however, remain underreported. The aims of this study were to calculate the incidence of iatrogenic nerve injury after primary and revision reverse total shoulder arthroplasty in a large patient cohort, as well as identify associated patient-and surgery-related risk factors.

Materials and methods

A retrospective review of our institution’s internal Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty (RTSA) database from September 2005 to December 2019 was undertaken and 34 patients with iatrogenic nerve injuries were identified, resulting in a neurological complication rate of 2.6%. Group comparisons between patients with nerve injuries (n = 34) and the remaining cohort without nerve injuries (n = 1275) were performed to identify patient- and surgery-related risk factors.

Results

Of the 34 cases with iatrogenic nerve injury, damage to terminal nerve branches occurred in 21 patients, whereas a brachial plexus lesion was diagnosed in the other 13. Nerve revision surgery was necessary in four patients. At final follow-up 13 patients (45%) had residual motor deficits and 17 (59%) had residual sensory deficits. Higher numbers of previous surgeries of the affected shoulder correlated with subsequent nerve injury (p = 0.035). Operative time was significantly longer in patients, who developed a neurologic deficit, showing a correlation between duration of surgery and occurrence of nerve injury (p = 0.013). Patients with neurologic complications were significantly younger than patients without nerve damage (median 68 vs. 72 years, p = 0.017).

Conclusions

In specialists’ hands reverse total shoulder arthroplasty is a rather safe procedure regarding the risk of neurologic injury. However, multiple previous surgeries of the affected shoulder increase the risk of neurological complications. Cases with post-operative neurologic compromise are rare and usually recover well, with few patients suffering long-term functional deficits from iatrogenic nerve injury.

Level of evidence

Level III, retrospective cohort study.
Effect of recovery time on $$\dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2}$$-ON kinetics in humans at the onset of moderate-intensity cycling exercise
Authors: Pogliaghi Silvia , Tam Enrico , Capelli Carlo
Published: October 2022

Purpose

τof the primary phase of$$\dot{V}{\text{O}}_{{2{\text{A}}}}$$V˙O2Akinetics during square-wave, moderate-intensity exercise mirrors that of PCr splitting (τPCr). Pre-exercise [PCr] and the absolute variations of PCr (∆[PCr]) occurring during transient have been suggested to controlτPCr and, in turn, to modulate$$\dot{V}{\text{O}}_{{2{\text{A}}}}$$V˙O2Akinetics. In addition,$$\dot{V}{\text{O}}_{{2{\text{A}}}}$$V˙O2Akinetics may be slower when exercise initiates from a raised metabolic level, i.e., from a less-favorable energetic state. We verified the hypothesis that: (i) pre-exercise [PCr], (ii) pre-exercise metabolic rate, or (iii) ∆[PCr] may affect the kinetics of muscular oxidative metabolism and, therefore,τ.

Methods

To this aim, seven active males (23.0 yy ± 2.3; 1.76 m ± 0.06,$$\dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2\max }$$V˙O2max: 3.32 L min−1 ± 0.67) performed three repetitions of series consisting of six 6-min step exercise transitions of identical workload interspersed with different times of recovery: 30, 60, 90, 120, 300 s.

Results

Mono-exponential fitting was applied to breath-by-breath$$\dot{V}{\text{O}}_{{2{\text{A}}}}$$V˙O2A, so thatτwas determined.τdecays as a first-order exponential function of the time of recovery (τ = 109.5 × e(−t/14.0) + 18.9r2 = 0.32) and linearly decreased as a function of the estimated pre-exercise [PCr] (τ = − 1.07 [PCr] + 44.9,r2 = 0.513,P < 0.01); it was unaffected by the estimated ∆[PCr].

Conclusions

Our results in vivo do not confirm the positive linear relationship betweenτand pre-exercise [PCr] and ∆[PCr]. Instead,$$\dot{V}{\text{O}}_{{2{\text{A}}}}$$V˙O2Akinetics seems to be influenced by the pre-exercise metabolic rate and the altered intramuscular energetic state.
Biological behavior of familial papillary thyroid microcarcinoma: Spanish multicenter study
Authors: Ríos A. , Rodríguez M. A. , Puñal J. A. , Moreno P. , Mercader E. , Ferrero E. , Ruiz-Pardo J. , Morlán M. A. , Martín J. , Durán-Poveda M. , Bravo J. M. , Casanova D. , Egea M. P. Salvador , Torregrosa N. M. , Exposito-Rodríguez A. , Martínez-Fernández G. , Carrión A. M. , Vidal O. , Herrera F. , Ruiz-Merino G. , Rodríguez J. M.
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Familial papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (FPTMC) can present a more aggressive behavior than the sporadic microcarcinoma. However, few studies have analyzed this situation. The objective is to analyze the recurrence rate of FPTMC and the prognostic factors which determine that recurrence in Spain.

Methods

Spanish multicenter longitudinal analytical observational study was conducted. Patients with FPTMC received treatment with curative intent and presented cure criteria 6 months after treatment. Recurrence rate and disease-free survival (DFS) were analyzed. Two groups were analyzed: group A (no tumor recurrence) vs. group B (tumor recurrence).

Results

Ninety-four patients were analyzed. During a mean follow-up of 73.3 ± 59.3 months, 13 recurrences of FPTMC (13.83%) were detected and mean DFS was 207.9 ± 11.5 months. There were multifocality in 56%, bilateral thyroid involvement in 30%, and vascular invasion in 7.5%; that is to say, they are tumors with histological factors of poor prognosis in a high percentage of cases. The main risk factors for recurrence obtained in the multivariate analysis were the tumor size (OR: 2.574, 95% CI 1.210–5.473; p = 0.014) and the assessment of the risk of recurrence of the American Thyroid Association (ATA), both intermediate risk versus low risk (OR: 125, 95% CI 10.638–1000; p < 0.001) and high risk versus low risk (OR: 45.454, 95% CI 5.405–333.333; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

FPTMC has a recurrence rate higher than sporadic cases. Poor prognosis is mainly associated with the tumor size and the risk of recurrence of the ATA.

Graphical abstract
Reciprocal associations between affective decision-making and mental health in adolescence
Authors: Bentivegna Francesca , Flouri Eirini , Papachristou Efstathios
Published: October 2022

Poor affective decision-making has been shown to associate cross-sectionally with poor mental health in clinical populations. However, evidence from general population samples is scarce. Moreover, whether decision-making is prospectively linked to mental health in youth in the general population and whether such associations are reciprocal have yet to be examined. The present study examined bidirectional associations between various aspects of affective decision-making and emotional and behavioural problems at ages 11 and 14 years in 13,366 members of the Millennium Cohort Study. Decision-making (delay aversion, deliberation time, quality of decision-making, risk adjustment, risk-taking) and emotional (emotional symptoms, peer problems) and behavioural (conduct problems, hyperactivity/inattention) problems were measured using the Cambridge Gambling Task and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, respectively. Results of cross-lagged panel models adjusted for confounding revealed a negative reciprocal association between hyperactivity and quality of decision-making but also positive reciprocal associations between conduct problems and delay aversion, and between peer problems and deliberation time. Emotional problems and peer problems predicted a decrease in risk-taking, conduct problems predicted an increase in risk-taking, and hyperactivity predicted an increase in delay aversion and deliberation time. Furthermore, hyperactivity and conduct problems predicted less risk adjustment, and risk adjustment predicted fewer peer problems. The results suggest that behavioural problems are prospectively linked to greater risk-taking and lower risk adjustment in adolescence. Moreover, adolescents with behavioural problems tend to make poorer decisions and be more delay-averse, but also poorer quality of decision-making and increased delay aversion are associated with more behavioural problems over time.
An Outlook for Deep Learning in Ecosystem Science
Authors: Perry George L. W. , Seidl Rupert , Bellvé André M. , Rammer Werner
Published: October 2022

Rapid advances in hardware and software, accompanied by public- and private-sector investment, have led to a new generation of data-driven computational tools. Recently, there has been a particular focus on deep learning—a class of machine learning algorithms that uses deep neural networks to identify patterns in large and heterogeneous datasets. These developments have been accompanied by both hype and scepticism by ecologists and others. This review describes the context in which deep learning methods have emerged, the deep learning methods most relevant to ecosystem ecologists, and some of the problem domains they have been applied to. Deep learning methods have high predictive performance in a range of ecological contexts, leveraging the large data resources now available. Furthermore, deep learning tools offer ecosystem ecologists new ways to learn about ecosystem dynamics. In particular, recent advances in interpretable machine learning and in developing hybrid approaches combining deep learning and mechanistic models provide a bridge between pure prediction and causal explanation. We conclude by looking at the opportunities that deep learning tools offer ecosystem ecologists and assess the challenges in interpretability that deep learning applications pose.
The Interplay of the Tree and Stand-Level Processes Mediate Drought-Induced Forest Dieback: Evidence from Complementary Remote Sensing and Tree-Ring Approaches
Authors: Moreno-Fernández Daniel , Camarero J. Julio , García Mariano , Lines Emily R. , Sánchez-Dávila Jesús , Tijerín Julián , Valeriano Cristina , Viana-Soto Alba , Zavala Miguel Á. , Ruiz-Benito Paloma
Published: October 2022

Drought-induced forest dieback can lead to a tipping point in community dominance, but the coupled response at the tree and stand-level response has not been properly addressed. New spatially and temporally integrated monitoring approaches that target different biological organization levels are needed. Here, we compared the temporal responses of dendrochronological and spectral indices from 1984 to 2020 at both tree and stand levels, respectively, of a drought-prone MediterraneanPinus pineaforest currently suffering strong dieback. We test the influence of climate on temporal patterns of tree radial growth, greenness and wetness spectral indices; and we address the influence of major drought episodes on resilience metrics. Tree-ring data and spectral indices followed different spatio-temporal patterns over the study period (1984–2020). Combined information from tree growth and spectral trajectories suggests that a reduction in tree density during the mid-1990s could have promoted tree growth and reduced dieback risk. Additionally, over the last decade, extreme and recurrent droughts have resulted in crown defoliation greater than 40% in most plots since 2019. We found that tree growth and the greenness spectral index were positively related to annual precipitation, while the wetness index was positively related to mean annual temperature. The response to drought, however, was stronger for tree growth than for spectral indices. Our study demonstrates the value of long-term retrospective multiscale analyses including tree and stand-level scales to disentangle mechanisms triggering and driving forest dieback.
Voluntary metering of rural groundwater extractions: understanding and resolving the challenges
Authors: Rochford Louisa M. , Ordens Carlos M. , Bulovic Nevenka , McIntyre Neil
Published: October 2022

Understanding the rate of extraction from bores (or wells) can be essential in estimating groundwater discharge at a regional scale and understanding pressures on sustainable use. The challenges in doing so include the impracticality of directly measuring extractions from all, or even a large proportion of, operating bores using flow meters, especially in rural and remote areas. This challenge may be addressed by metering a representative sample of bores and generalising results to develop estimation methods; however, even achieving this presents considerable obstacles. While the benefits of metering a subset of bores to progress groundwater science and management are recognised, the obstacles to implementing metering and guidance on overcoming them are not well documented. In the Surat Basin, Australia, most groundwater bores are used for stock watering and domestic purposes, with less than 0.1% metered. As part of a research program to understand regional groundwater extraction in this area, a voluntary bore metering program has been undertaken. In this paper the challenges that arose when recruiting participants, installing and maintaining flow metering equipment, and interpreting and using data collected are described. Lessons learnt during implementation of the program that can guide other voluntary metering of rural groundwater extractions are discussed.
A review of drivers of environmental non-migration decisions in Africa
Authors: Balgah Roland Azibo , Kimengsi Jude Ndzifon
Published: October 2022

In spite of growing scholarship on environmentally induced non-migration research in Africa, comprehensive empirical evidence of non-migration drivers is extremely difficult to find. We review 77 rigorously selected empirical articles on the drivers of environmental non-migration. A variety of relevant keywords was applied to search, identify, and select key publications from ScienceDirect, Web of Knowledge, Google Scholar, and the Climig databases. Content analysis and inter-rater reliability (IRR) analysis were used to summarize the literature and identify key drivers of environmental non-migration decisions across all retained articles. The study structure was informed by the Foresight (2011a) conceptual framework. A growth in the non-migration literature across the time period was observed. Social factors, particularly place-based attachment and family/cultural obligations, was identified as the most important driver of non-migration (IRR score = 0.67). Environmental factors were ranked second, particularly the ability of the affected to develop coping capacity through experiential learning even in contexts marred by resource scarcity and widespread poverty. Given the limited literature on environmental non-migration decisions, we recommend increased non-migration research across Africa to better inform policy decisions. This is particularly important as climate-related disasters surge. Frequent reviews on diverse aspects of non-migration studies are recommended to redefine future research and non-migration policy considerations in Africa.
Estimating healthcare expenditures after becoming divorced or widowed using propensity score matching
Authors: Meulman Iris , Loef Bette , Stadhouders Niek , Moger Tron Anders , Wong Albert , Polder Johan J. , Uiters Ellen
Published: October 2022

Becoming divorced or widowed are stressful life events experienced by a substantial part of the population. While marital status is a significant predictor in many studies on healthcare expenditures, effects of a change in marital status, specifically becoming divorced or widowed, are less investigated. This study combines individual health claims data and registered sociodemographic characteristics from all Dutch inhabitants (about 17 million) to estimate the differences in healthcare expenditure for individuals whose marital status changed (n = 469,901) compared to individuals who remained married, using propensity score matching and generalized linear models. We found that individuals who were (long-term) divorced or widowed had 12–27% higher healthcare expenditures (RR = 1.12, 95% CI 1.11–1.14; RR = 1.27, 95% CI 1.26–1.29) than individuals who remained married. Foremost, this could be attributed to higher spending on mental healthcare and home care. Higher healthcare expenditures are observed for both divorced and widowed individuals, both recently and long-term divorced/widowed individuals, and across all age groups, income levels and educational levels.
Genomic resources of Colletotrichum fungi: development and application
Authors: Tsushima Ayako , Shirasu Ken
Published: October 2022

Anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum spp. is an economically important disease of many plants, including grain, vegetable, and fruit crops. Next-generation sequencing technologies have led to a dramatic growth in the size and availability of genomic data in public repositories. Beginning with genome sequencing projects of C. higginsianum and C. graminicola, many Colletotrichum spp. genomes have been sequenced due to their scientific and agricultural importance. Today, we can access more than a hundred genome assemblies of Colletotrichum spp. Utilizing those abundant genomic datasets would enable a better understanding of adaptation mechanisms of Colletotrichum spp. at the genomic level, which could help to control this important group of pathogens. In this review, we outline the development and application of genomic resources of Colletotrichum spp. with a focus on the benefits of genomic data-driven studies, including reverse-genetics, a range of comparative genomic analyses, species identification, taxonomy, and diagnosis, while describing the potential pitfalls of genome analysis. Further, we discuss future research directions that could allow a more comprehensive understanding of genomic diversity within the genus Colletotrichum.
Consensus Head Acceleration Measurement Practices (CHAMP): Study Design and Statistical Analysis
Authors: Rowson Steve , Mihalik Jason , Urban Jillian , Schmidt Julianne , Marshall Steve , Harezlak Jaroslaw , Stemper Brian D. , McCrea Mike , Funk Jim
Published: October 2022

Head impact measurement devices enable opportunities to collect impact data directly from humans to study topics like concussion biomechanics, head impact exposure and its effects, and concussion risk reduction techniques in sports when paired with other relevant data. With recent advances in head impact measurement devices and cost-effective price points, more and more investigators are using them to study brain health questions. However, as the field's literature grows, the variance in study quality is apparent. This brief paper aims to provide a high-level set of key considerations for the design and analysis of head impact measurement studies that can help avoid flaws introduced by sampling biases, false data, missing data, and confounding factors. We discuss key points through four overarching themes: study design, operational management, data quality, and data analysis.
Near-term climate risks and sunlight reflection modification: a roadmap approach for physical sciences research
Authors: Wanser Kelly , Doherty Sarah J. , Hurrell James W. , Wong Alex
Published: October 2022

Current impacts and escalating risks of climate change require strong and decisive action to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. They also highlight the urgency of research to enhance safety for human and natural systems, especially for those most vulnerable. This is reflected in two recent US National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine studies that recommended a national focus on advancing our understanding of how to manage urgent current and future climate risks, and the study of approaches for increasing the reflection of sunlight from the atmosphere to reduce global warming, a process referred to as sunlight reflection modification (SRM). Here, we build on these recommendations by proposing a roadmap approach for the planning, coordination, and delivery of research to support a robust scientific assessment of SRM to reduce near-term climate risks in a defined timeframe. This approach is designed to support the evaluation of SRM as a possible rapid, temporary, additive measure to reduce catastrophic impacts from anthropogenic climate change, not as a substitute for aggressive GHG mitigation. Assessing SRM is proposed to be undertaken in the context of climate hazard risks through 2050, weighing the impacts associated with likely climate change trajectories against scenarios of possible SRM implementations. Provided that research is undertaken openly and that scientific resources are made widely available, the transparency of the process and the evidence generated would contribute to the democratization of information, participation by diverse stakeholders, more informed decision-making, and better opportunities for all people to weigh SRM options against climate change risks.