bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rehabilitation of Patients with Osseointegrated Prosthesis after Transfemoral Amputation – Literature-based Recommendation for Postoperative Rehabilitative
Procedure
Authors: Schnadthorst Philipp Georg , Lison Andreas , Schulze Christoph
Published: September 2021

Background Osseointegrative implantation after amputation of the lower extremity is a special treatment option. Physiotherapeutic treatment is important for the functional outcome.
This study systematically evaluated existing follow-up treatment protocols to establish a literature-based recommendation for postoperative rehabilitation procedures.

Methodology A PubMed literature search was conducted on December 10, 2020, using the following search terms: (osseo-integrat* OR endo-exo OR boneanchored OR bone anchored) AND
(prosthe*) AND (leg OR lower limb* OR lower extremit* OR transfem* OR transtib*) AND (rehabilitation). 113 publications were found in this context. 10 of them met inclusion criteria. The
Cochrane risk of bias tool was used to determine the publicationsʼ quality.

Results Three systematic rehabilitation protocols have been described: Osseointegrated Prostheses for the Rehabilitation of Amputees protocol, Osseointegration Group of Australia
Accelerated protocol and Radboud Amputation: rehabilitation protocol for endo-exo femoral prosthesis. There are clear differences in the duration of the rehabilitation protocols. The quality
of published studies is limited due to the high risk of bias and low evidence levels (mainly III – V). A concept for long-term rehabilitation has not been described yet.

Conclusions There are various protocols for rehabilitation after treatment with osseointegrative prosthesis. Gradually increasing axial weight bearing started shortly after surgery;
step-by-step gait training, adaptation of the prosthesis to the new biomechanics and critical patient selection and pre-operative training have been proven useful for successful
rehabilitation. Controlled comparative studies, standardised outcome measurements or comparative studies between different protocols are not available. Models for multi-level long-term care
have not been described in the literature so far.
Prüfen in der Allgemeinmedizin – Staatsexamina im
ambulanten hausärztlichen Setting
Authors: Demmer Iris , Schneider Anke , Selgert Lena , Brünahl Christian , Baum Erika , Bergmann Antje , Ehrhardt Maren , Streitlein-Böhme Irmgard , Hummers Eva , Jünger Jana
Published: September 2021

Die Allgemeinmedizin hat einen großen Stellenwert in der
Gesundheitsversorgung der Bevölkerung. Nur ein kleiner Teil der
behandelten Patienten wird bei spezialisierten Fachärzten, im
Krankenhaus oder in einer Universitätsklinik versorgt. Der
Großteil der Bevölkerung hingegen hat Kontakt zu einem Hausarzt.
Mit Einführung der im Masterplan Medizinstudium 2020 geforderten
Stärkung der Allgemeinmedizin, unter anderem in neuen
Staatsexamina-Prüfungsformaten, wird diese zentrale Stellung in der
Patientenversorgung in Studium und Prüfungen zukünftig
abgebildet. Das allgemeinärztliche Setting obliegt einem spezifischen
Hintergrund mit unausgelesenem Patientenkollektiv und hermeneutischem
Fallverständnis. Die neue Abschlussprüfung fördert
allgemeinmedizinische und fächerübergreifende Kompetenzen in der
ärztlichen Gesprächsführung, bei der
körperlichen Untersuchung, im Umgang mit ambulant behandelbaren
Erkrankungen, bei Prävention wie auch der Anwendung allgemeiner
ärztlicher Richtlinien von Ethik und Recht. Die vom Institut für
medizinische und pharmazeutische Prüfungsfragen (IMPP) neu gestaltete
standardisierte mündlich-praktische Prüfung mit realen Patienten
im ambulanten Setting beinhaltet acht Schritte, die kommunikative und fachliche
Prüfungsaspekte integrieren. Zwei geschulte Prüfende beobachten
und beurteilen die Leistungen anhand standardisierter Bewertungsbögen.
Das neue Prüfungsformat wurde bereits 2019 vom IMPP und Lehrenden
verschiedener medizinischer Fakultäten entwickelt, in fünf
allgemeinmedizinischen Lehrpraxen getestet, überarbeitet und
anschließend in vierzehn Probeprüfungen pilotiert.
Standardisierte Vorgaben zum Prüfungsablauf, zur räumlichen
Ausstattung sowie zu Prüferschulungen wurden vom IMPP entwickelt.
Zukünftig sind bei ca. 10+000 Prüflingen
jährlich sowie bei Prüfung zwei Studierender pro Prüftag
insgesamt 5000 Prüftage in allgemeinärztlichen Praxen
erforderlich. Aufgrund der Expertise der Deutschen Gesellschaft für
Allgemein- und Familienmedizin (DEGAM), der Gesellschaft der Hochschullehrer
für Allgemeinmedizin (GHA) und der universitären Standorte
bezüglich der Gewinnung und Motivation von Praxen sowie des
großen Potentials als größte Fachgruppe Deutschlands
erscheint dieses Ziel erreichbar. Bezüglich der Finanzierung sind
politische Entscheidungen notwendig. In einem immer komplexer werdenden
Versorgungssystem trägt die Neugestaltung der
mündlich-praktischen Prüfung im ambulanten Setting zur
Stärkung der interdisziplinären und multiprofessionellen
Zusammenarbeit bei.
ASCO-Update
Authors: Arnheim Katharina
Published: September 2021

Beim lokal fortgeschrittenen Zervixkarzinom verbessert die adjuvante Chemotherapie nach einer Radiochemotherapie (RCT) weder progressionsfreies (PFS) noch Gesamtüberleben (OS). Doch gab es auf der diesjährigen ASCO-Jahrestagung zu diesem Tumor auch positive Ergebnisse: Seine Inzidenz hat dank Screening und HPV-Vakzine insbesondere bei jungen Frauen stark abgenommen.
Kontrollüberzeugung und psychische Lebensqualität von
Menschen mit afrikanischer Herkunft in Deutschland – Ergebnisse einer
Repräsentativerhebung
Authors: Adedeji Adekunle , Metzner Franka , Salahou Aderanti
Published: September 2021

Ziel der Studie Viele Menschen mit afrikanischer Herkunft sind in Europa
aufgrund ihrer Hautfarbe und Kultur von Diskriminierung und Rassismus betroffen
und weisen einen unterdurchschnittlichen sozioökonomischen Status sowie
eine unterdurchschnittliche Lebensqualität auf. Ziel der Arbeit war,
Ansatzpunkte für eine Verbesserung der Integration und
Lebensqualität von in Deutschland lebenden Menschen mit einem
Migrationshintergrund aus Subsahara-Afrika (SSA) zu finden.

Methodik Erstmals wurde eine Stichprobe von 518 in Deutschland lebenden
Menschen aus SSA (19–56 Jahre) mittels eines Online-Surveys in drei
Sprachen zu ihrer psychischen Lebensqualität und ihrer
Kontrollüberzeugung als Indikator für ihre Anpassungsleistungen
befragt.

Ergebnisse und Schlussfolgerung Die Ergebnisse der bundesweiten Befragung
verweisen auf einen signifikanten stark positiven Zusammenhang zwischen der
Kontrollüberzeugung und der psychischen Lebensqualität bei
Menschen mit afrikanischer Herkunft in Deutschland (p<0,010;
r=0,49). Das Alter, die Aufenthaltsdauer in Deutschland, die
Berufsgruppe und der Bildungsabschluss hängen dabei signifikant mit der
Kontrollüberzeugung und psychischen Lebensqualität von Menschen
aus SSA zusammen. Im Ergebnis eines multiplen Regressionsmodells ergab sich
für den Zusammenhang zwischen psychischer Lebensqualität und
Kontrollüberzeugung unter den sozioökonomischen und
demografischen Faktoren der Bildungsabschluss als signifikanter
Prädiktor. Etwa 24% der Varianz in der psychischen
Lebensqualität werden durch die Kontrollüberzeugung und den
Bildungsabschluss erklärt. Bildung wird daher als Ausgangspunkt
für Maßnahmen zur Förderung der Integration und
psychischen Gesundheit von aus SSA migrierten Menschen in verschiedenen
Lebensphasen diskutiert.
Detection of Direct Oral Anticoagulants in Patient Urine Samples by Prototype and Commercial Test Strips for DOACs – A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Martini Andrea , Harenberg Job , Bauersachs Rupert , Beyer-Westendorf Jan , Crowther Mark , Douxfils Jonathan , Elalamy Ismail , Weiss Christel , Hetjens Svetlana
Published: September 2021

The DOAC Dipstick accurately detects the presence or absence of factor Xa (DXI) and thrombin inhibitor (DTI) classes of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in patients' urine samples on DOAC treatment. The aim of the study was to systematically review the literature and compare the performance of prototype and commercial test strips with a meta-analysis.

A systematic literature search of electronic databases PubMed (MEDLINE) and Cochrane Library was performed. Heterogeneity between studies was calculated using the Chi-squared test and the I2 index. A random effects model was used to pool data to compare the performance of prototype and commercial test strips.

Using PRISMA reporting guidelines, four of 1,081 publications were eligible for inclusion in the meta-analysis: three reporting on prototype (DXI n = 658, DTI n = 586) and one on commercial test strips (DXI n = 451, DTI n = 429). Sensitivity and specificity of DXI and DTI detection did not differ significantly between the prototype and commercial test strips. Odds ratios were 0.718 and 0.365 for sensitivity and 1.211 and 1.072 for specificity of DXI and DTI (p-values between 0.3334 and 1.000), respectively. The pooled sensitivity and specificity values for DXI were 0.968 (p = 0.1290, I2 47.1%) and 0.979 (p = 0.1965, I2 35.9%), and for DTI 0.993 (p = 0.1870, I2 37.5%) and 0.993 (p = 0.7380, I2 0%), respectively.

Prototype and commercial DOAC test strips did not differ in their ability to detect DXI and DTI in patient urine samples. This supports the confidence in use of the DOAC Dipstick test, although it needs to be validated in specific patient populations.
A Surgical Perspective on the Association between Cystic Lesions of the Pineal Gland (Descartes' Seat of the Soul) and the Pituitary (the Master Gland)
Authors: Montaser Alaa S. , Cho Elise Y. , Catalino Michael P. , Hanna Jack , Smith Timothy R. , Laws Edward R.
Published: September 2021

Introduction Rene Descartes (1596–1650), the famous philosopher and scientist, identified the pineal gland as the only cerebral structure not represented bilaterally, the “seat of the soul”; and the source of rational thought. Pineal cysts (PCs) are often incidentally identified in MRI studies, with a reported prevalence of 1 to 4.3%. Rathke cleft cysts (RCCs) are pituitary lesions accounting for <1% of intracranial masses. There are scant data in the literature addressing any association between these two midline cystic lesions.

Methods We reviewed the medical records of patients presenting at our institution from April 2008 through February 2020, whose records indicated a diagnosis of RCC, and those whose records included pineal lesions. Our objective was to evaluate the association between these two midline lesions. Brain MRI studies were reviewed for the presence of PCs; only patients with PCs that measured ≥5 mm in diameter were included.

Results We identified 116 patients with RCCs, and 34 patients with PCs, treated from April 2008 through February 2020. Among the RCC group, 14/116 patients (12%) had PCs. Among the PC group, 3/34 patients (8.8%) had RCCs. Overall, 17 patients (11.3%) had concomitant RCCs and PCs. The mean maximal diameter of the PCs was 7.5 mm (range = 5–17 mm), whereas the mean maximal diameter of RCCs was 13 mm (range = 5–40 mm).

Conclusion The incidental diagnosis of cystic lesions of the pineal and pituitary gland is increasingly reported, primarily because of advances in current diagnostic modalities. Our data demonstrated no clear consensual association between pineal and pituitary cysts.
Infant Formulas: A Long Story
Authors: Falcão Mário Cícero , Zamberlan Patrícia
Published: September 2021

The ideal feeding for infants is the breast milk because it has a balanced nutritional composition, which includes all essential nutrients, in addition to many bioactive factors that contribute to the growth and development of the child, as well as to the maturation of the gastrointestinal tract. Among them are immunological factors, antimicrobials and anti-inflammatory components, digestive enzymes, various types of hormones, and growth factors. If human milk is not available, there is an indication of infant formulas that should follow the recommendations of the Codex Alimentarius of the Food and Agriculture Organization/World Health Organization (WHO). In a century of history, infant formulas have gone from a simple combination of cow milk (evaporated or condensed) and water to highly sophisticated products, elaborated by very refined technological processes to produce lactose-free, antiregurgitation, based on soy protein, hydrolyzed protein in various grades, and only amino acids formulas. The major milestones in the modification of infant formulas were the incorporation of nutrients/ingredients such as: iron, nucleotides, alpha lactalbumin, long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, prebiotics, probiotics, postbiotics, oligosaccharides similar to human milk, lactoferrin, and milk fat globule membrane. Many of these ingredients have shown benefits on the immunological system. Despite the technological advances, breast milk remains irreplaceable, being the gold standard for infant feeding.
Nasal and Naso-orbito-ethmoid Fractures
Authors: Epstein Sherise , Ettinger Russell E.
Published: September 2021

Craniofacial fractures are common among trauma patients. Nasal fractures are the most common craniofacial fracture. Understanding how to evaluate and manage craniofacial fractures is important for the craniofacial trauma consultant. This manuscript describes the appropriate workup and management of nasal and naso-orbito-ethmoid fractures.
Management of Panfacial Trauma: Sequencing and Pitfalls
Authors: Massenburg Benjamin B. , Lang Melanie S.
Published: September 2021

Panfacial trauma refers to high-energy mechanism injuries involving two or more areas of the craniofacial skeleton, the frontal bone, the midface, and the occlusal unit. These can be distracting injuries in an unstable patient and, as in any trauma, Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) protocols should be followed. The airway should be secured, bleeding controlled, and sequential examinations should take place to avoid overlooking injuries. When indicated, neurosurgery and ophthalmology should be consulted as preservation of brain, vision, and hearing function should be prioritized. Once the patient is stabilized, reconstruction aims to reduce panfacial fractures, restore the horizontal and vertical facial buttresses, and resuspend the soft tissue to avoid the appearance of premature aging. Lost or comminuted bone can be replaced with bone grafts, although adequate reduction should be ensured prior to any grafting. Operative sequencing can be performed from top-down and outside-in or from bottom-up and inside-out depending on patient presentation. All protocols can successfully manage panfacial injuries, and the emphasis should be placed on a systematic approach that works from known areas to unknown areas.
LeFort Fractures
Authors: Ikeda Allison K. , Burke Andrea B.
Published: September 2021

Consultations for management of facial fractures in the emergency setting are not uncommon for the oral maxillofacial surgeon, otolaryngologist, and/or plastic surgeon. This necessitates a knowledge foundation and working understanding of the evaluation, assessment, and timely management. Here, we will focus on the workup and management of LeFort fractures.
Analysis of a bearingless switched reluctance motor with permanent magnets in the stator yoke
Authors: Yang YiFei , Wang RenZhong
Published: September 2021

Because a rotor has no permanent magnet and low manufacturing cost, a bearingless switched reluctance motor (BSRM) has unique advantages in medical and health, biochemical reactions, and other applications that need to be abandoned after single use or require the system to deal with high-temperature fluid. By analyzing the topological characteristics of a BSRM, rotor suspension and the mechanism of operation were described. A finite element model of a BSRM with a permanent magnet in the stator yoke (BSRM-PMSY) was established. The performance analysis of the BSRM was emphasized. The airgap flux distribution, no-load permanent magnet flux linkage, and torque of the motor were analyzed under zero load back-electromagnetic flow signals and levitation forces. The results verify that the optimization effect of the new motor on the levitation force is correct and a favorable decoupling control effect is found between the torque and levitation force, which provides the basis for efficient control of the subsequent prototype.
Scientists dismayed by interruption at US’s most productive neutron source
Authors: Kramer David
Published: September 2021

The unplanned shutdown of a NIST reactor following a February accident has taken out the nation’s leading center for cold neutron research.
Northern Australia Climate Program: supporting adaptation in rangeland grazing systems through more targeted climate forecasts, improved drought information and an innovative extension program
Authors: Cobon David , Jarvis Chelsea , Reardon-Smith Kate , Guillory Laura , Pudmenzky Christa , Nguyen-Huy Thong , Mushtaq Shahbaz , Stone Roger
Published: September 2021

The Northern Australia Climate Program (NACP) is a fully integrated research, development and extension (RDandE) program operating across extensive pastoral regions of northern Australia. The NACP aims to improve existing climate models and forecast tools, develop new products to meet user needs and build the capacity of rangeland producers to manage the challenges posed by droughts (or failed wet seasons) and climate variability. Climate information gaps identified through earlier surveys of graziers and communities in rural and remote Australia informed the design of the research component of the NACP, which aims to address the low and variable accuracy of seasonal climate forecasts in many regions, the need for proof of value of forecasts and relevance of existing forecast systems and technologies, and perceived lack of effective support from climate experts for the use of climate resources and technologies in agricultural decision making. The development and extension components of the program aim to improve climate literacy and the use of climate information. Building on the research program, they deliver a climate service that provides local extension and technical support, with a focus on building trust in climate information through locally sourced, industry connected NACP trained and supported extension advisers called Climate Mates. Two-way information flow between decision makers and researchers, facilitated by the Climate Mates, ensures that forecasts and decision- and discussion-support tools developed through the program are regionally relevant and targeted to the needs of end users. Monitoring and evaluation of the program indicates that this approach is contributing to positive outcomes in terms of awareness and knowledge of climate forecasting and products, and their adoption and use in decision making (i.e. practice change). In the longer term, the Climate Mates have potential for enduring impact beyond the program, leaving a knowledgeable and trusted climate resource across regional northern Australia.
ATF6 is essential for human cone photoreceptor development
Authors: Kroeger Heike , Grandjean Julia M. D. , Chiang Wei-Chieh Jerry , Bindels Daphne D. , Mastey Rebecca , Okalova Jennifer , Nguyen Amanda , Powers Evan T. , Kelly Jeffery W. , Grimsey Neil J. , Michaelides Michel , Carroll Joseph , Wiseman R. Luke , Lin Jonathan H.
Published: September 2021

Significance

Inactivating genetic variants in the Unfolded Protein Response (UPR) regulator
Activating Transcription Factor 6 (ATF6)
result in loss of color vision, which is linked to dysfunctional cone photoreceptors and the development of achromatopsia. The pathomechanims involving the lack of functional ATF6 remain unknown; retinal organoids from patient induced pluripotent stem cells and
ATF6
null hESCs were generated to elucidate this question. Data from this study identified an unexpected UPR-independent role for ATF6 signaling during cone photoreceptor differentiation in human retinal development, identifying a pathogenic mechanism underlying ATF6-associated achromatopsia. It is believed that pharmacologic targeting of ATF6 may present a viable treatment option for color blinding diseases at early stages of retinal development.
Storage.
Authors: Thompson Anthony Keith , Oduro Ibok
Published: September 2021

This chapter focuses on the different aspects of the storage of yams, including preharvest factors, storage structures, curing, sprouting, irradiation, temperature and chemicals used during storage.
The influence of grain size and precipitation and a boron addition on the hot ductility of a high Al, V containing TWIP steels
Authors: Mintz B. , Kang S. , Qaban A.
Published: September 2021

The hot ductility of V containing high Al, TWIP steels was determined at a 1000°C, when no dynamic recrystallisation occurred, and precipitation was too coarse to influence ductility. A change in grain size from ∼1250 to 500 µm caused the reduction of the area to increase by ∼25%, intimating that the improvement in ductility on adding boron is due to its segregation to the boundaries causing grain refinement on solidification. Fine VC precipitation was mainly responsible for deteriorating ductility. In these steels, the ductility of un-recrystallised austenite decreases gradually with increasing temperature from 700°C to 1000°C and this in combination with fine precipitation can markedly change the shape of the hot ductility curve from ductility decreasing to increasing with temperature.
The favourable association of self‐reported physical fitness with depression and anxiety during pregnancy. The GESTAFIT project
Authors: Marín‐Jiménez Nuria , Castro‐Piñero José , Rodríguez‐Ayllón María , Marchán‐Rubio Alba , Delgado‐Fernández Manuel , Aparicio Virginia A.
Published: September 2021

We explored the association of self‐reported physical fitness with depressive symptoms and anxiety levels during pregnancy. One hundred fifty‐five pregnant women (32.9 ± 4.7 years old) participated in the study. Self‐reported physical fitness was assessed with the International Fitness Scale, depressive symptoms and state anxiety levels with the Center for Epidemiological Studies‐Depression Scale and the State Trait Anxiety Index, respectively, at the 16 and 34 weeks of gestation. In model 1 (adjusted for age and gestational weight gain), greater overall self‐reported physical fitness was associated with fewer depressive symptoms at the 16 weeks (p = .004). Greater self‐reported cardiorespiratory fitness and muscular strength were associated with lower anxiety levels at the 16 weeks (all, p > .05). Greater overall self‐reported physical fitness, cardiorespiratory fitness and speed‐agility were associated with lower anxiety levels at the 34 weeks (all, p > .05). These results were also confirmed in model 2 (additionally adjusted for the exercise intervention, sleep quality, educational level, working status and cohabitating), except for cardiorespiratory fitness and anxiety levels at the 16 weeks (p = .09). Greater self‐reported physical fitness was associated with lower psychological ill‐being during pregnancy. Specifically, at the 16 weeks, greater self‐reported overall physical fitness was associated with fewer depressive symptoms, greater self‐reported muscular strength with lower anxiety levels; greater self‐reported overall physical fitness and speed‐agility with lower anxiety levels at the 34 weeks and greater self‐reported cardiorespiratory fitness with lower anxiety levels during the pregnancy. Screening of physical fitness may reduce the risk of depression and anxiety and generally improve pregnancy mental health‐related quality of life.

Highlights

Maternal depression and anxiety have prevalence rates between 8 and 36%.

Physical fitness enhancement during pregnancy results in less depression and anxiety.

Greater physical fitness may provide benefits for the mother mental health.

Self‐reported physical fitness screening during pregnancy may be useful in clinical settings.
Tuning energy transfer efficiency in quantum dots mixture by controling donor/acceptor ratio*
Authors: Liu Chang , Liang Jing , Wang Fangfang , Ma Chaojie , Liu Kehai , Liu Can , Hong Hao , Shen Huaibin , Liu Kaihui , Wang Enge
Published: September 2021

Improving the emission performance of colloidal quantum dots (QDs) is of paramount importance for their applications on light-emitting diodes (LEDs), displays and lasers. A highly promising approach is to tune the carrier recombination channels and lifetime by exploiting the energy transfer process. However, to achieve this precise emission optimization, quantitative modulation on energy transfer efficiency is highly desirable but still challenging. Here, we demonstrate a convenient approach to realize tunable energy transfer efficiency by forming QDs mixture with controllable donor/acceptor (D/A) ratio. With the mixing ratio ranging from 16/1 to 1/16, the energy transfer efficiency could be effectively tuned from near zero to ∼ 70%. For the high mixing ratio of 16/1, acceptors obtain adequate energy supplied by closely surrounding donors, leading to ∼ 2.4-fold PL enhancement. While for the low mixing ratio, the ultrafast and efficient energy extraction process directly suppresses the multi-exciton and Auger recombination in the donor, bringing about a higher threshold. The facile modulation of emission performance by controllably designed mixing ratio and quantitatively tunable energy transfer efficiency will facilitate QD-based optoelectronic and photovoltaic applications.
Creation of multi-frequency terahertz waves by optimized cascaded difference frequency generation
Authors: Li Zhong-Yang , Zhao Jia , Yuan Sheng , Jiao Bin-Zhe , Bing Pi-Bin , Zhang Hong-Tao , Chen Zhi-Liang , Tan Lian , Yao Jian-Quan
Published: September 2021

A new scheme which generates multi-frequency terahertz (THz) waves from planar waveguide by the optimized cascaded difference frequency generation (OCDFG) is proposed. A THz wave with frequency ω
T1 is generated by the OCDFG with two infrared pump waves, and simultaneously a series of cascaded optical waves with a frequency interval ω
T1 is generated. The THz wave with a frequency of M-times ω
T1 is generated by mixing the m-th-order and the (m + M)-th-order cascaded optical wave. The phase mismatch distributions of cascaded difference frequency generation (CDFG) are modulated by changing the thickness of planar waveguide step by step, thereby satisfying the phase-matching condition from first-order to high-order cascaded Stokes process step by step. As a result, the intensity of THz wave can be enhanced and modulated by controlling the cascading order of OCDFG.
A comparison between structural and magnetic behavior of cobalt ferrite synthesized via solid state and chemical methods
Authors: Sharifi Ali , Hayati Raziye , Setoudeh Nader , Rezaei Ghasem
Published: September 2021

Cobalt ferrite oxide (CoFe2O4) was synthesized by two different methods of mechanochemical and combustion. The phase composition and the chemical bonding information of the two powders were investigated by x-ray diffraction (XRD) method and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR). Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) was used to study the microstructure and morphology and elemental analysis was performed with EDS. The magnetic properties were analyzed at room temperature using a vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). According to the structural and elemental analyses, cobalt ferrite was directly synthesized in the combustion method. However, the mechanochemical route was not successful in phase formation, even after heating at high temperatures. The hysteresis loops of VSM analysis showed that the CoFe2O4 powder from combustion method resulted in higher saturation magnetization and coercive field than the powder synthesized by mechanical milling. The inferior magnetic behavior of the powder from solid state method is attributed to the presence of Co3+ in the starting powder, which results in a non-spinel complex between cobalt and iron ions.
Thermophysical properties of pure gases and mixtures at temperatures of 300–30 000 K and atmospheric pressure: thermodynamic properties and solution of equilibrium compositions
Authors: CHI Zhongyuan , ZHANG Weijun , YANG Qiangda
Published: September 2021

The equilibrium compositions and thermodynamic properties (density, enthalpy, etc at constant pressure) of plasma of pure gases and mixtures under local thermodynamic nonequilibrium have been calculated in this paper. The homotopy Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm was proposed to accurately solve nonlinear equations with singular Jacobian matrices, and is constructed by the Saha equation and Guldberg–Waage equation combined with mass conservation, the electric neutrality principle and Dalton’s partial pressure law, to solve the problem of dependence on the initial value in the process of iteration calculation. In this research, the equations at a higher temperature were solved and used as the auxiliary equations, and the homotopy control parameters’ sequence of the homotopy equations was selected by equal ratios. For auxiliary equations, the iterative initial value was obtained by assuming that there were only the highest-valence atomic cations and electrons at this temperature, and the plasma equilibrium composition distribution with the required accuracy was ultimately solved under the current conditions employing the Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm. The control parameter sequence was arranged according to the geometric sequence and the homotopy step was gradually shortened to ensure continuity of the homotopy process. Finally, the equilibrium composition and thermodynamic properties of pure N2, Mg(30%)–CO2(70%) and Mg(40%)–CO(50%)–N2(10%) mixture plasma at atmospheric pressure were calculated and the calculation process of some specified temperatures was shown and analyzed. The calculation accuracy of equilibrium composition is higher than other findings in the literature. The results for the thermodynamic properties are in good agreement with data reported by the literature.
Machine learning approach to force reconstruction in photoelastic materials
Authors: Sergazinov Renat , Kramár Miroslav
Published: September 2021

Photoelastic techniques have a long tradition in both qualitative and quantitative analysis of the stresses in granular materials. Over the last two decades, computational methods for reconstructing forces between particles from their photoelastic response have been developed by many different experimental teams. Unfortunately, all of these methods are computationally expensive. This limits their use for processing extensive data sets that capture the time evolution of granular ensembles consisting of a large number of particles. In this paper, we present a novel approach to this problem that leverages the power of convolutional neural networks to recognize complex spatial patterns. The main drawback of using neural networks is that training them usually requires a large labeled data set which is hard to obtain experimentally. We show that this problem can be successfully circumvented by pretraining the networks on a large synthetic data set and then fine-tuning them on much smaller experimental data sets. Due to our current lack of experimental data, we demonstrate the potential of our method by changing the size of the considered particles which alters the exhibited photoelastic patterns more than typical experimental errors.
A binary classifier based on a reconfigurable dense network of metallic nanojunctions
Authors: Mirigliano Matteo , Paroli Bruno , Martini Gianluca , Fedrizzi Marco , Falqui Andrea , Casu Alberto , Milani Paolo
Published: September 2021

Major efforts to reproduce the brain performances in terms of classification and pattern recognition have been focussed on the development of artificial neuromorphic systems based on top-down lithographic technologies typical of highly integrated components of digital computers. Unconventional computing has been proposed as an alternative exploiting the complexity and collective phenomena originating from various classes of physical substrates. Materials composed of a large number of non-linear nanoscale junctions are of particular interest: these systems, obtained by the self-assembling of nano-objects like nanoparticles and nanowires, results in non-linear conduction properties characterized by spatiotemporal correlation in their electrical activity. This appears particularly useful for classification of complex features: nonlinear projection into a high-dimensional space can make data linearly separable, providing classification solutions that are computationally very expensive with digital computers. Recently we reported that nanostructured Au films fabricated from the assembling of gold clusters by supersonic cluster beam deposition show a complex resistive switching behaviour. Their non-linear electric behaviour is remarkably stable and reproducible allowing the facile training of the devices on precise resistive states. Here we report about the fabrication and characterization of a device that allows the binary classification of Boolean functions by exploiting the properties of cluster-assembled Au films interconnecting a generic pattern of electrodes. This device, that constitutes a generalization of the perceptron, can receive inputs from different electrode configurations and generate a complete set of Boolean functions of n variables for classification tasks. We also show that the non-linear and non-local electrical conduction of cluster-assembled gold films, working at room temperature, allows the classification of non-linearly separable functions without previous training of the device.
Social Contagion of Vasovagal Symptoms in Blood Donors: Interactions With Empathy
Authors: Mennitto Serena , Vachon David D , Ritz Thomas , Robillard Pierre , France Christopher R , Ditto Blaine
Published: September 2021

Background

Vasovagal reactions (VVRs) are commonly experienced in medical situations such as blood donation. Many believe that psychosocial contagion can contribute to the development of VVRs, but this is largely clinical lore.

Purpose

The goal of the present investigation was to examine the physiological effects of observing another experience a reaction, focusing on the potential moderating effects of empathy.

Methods

This study was part of a randomized controlled trial of behavioral techniques on the prevention of VVRs in blood donors. The sample was composed of 530 healthy university students. Measures of symptoms were obtained with the Blood Donation Reactions Inventory (BDRI) and through observation. Physiological variables were measured using respiratory capnometry and a digital blood pressure monitor. The Affective and Cognitive Measure of Empathy was administered to 230 participants.

Results

Donors who witnessed another experiencing a reaction were more likely to spontaneously report symptoms during the blood draw, to be treated for a reaction, to score higher on the BDRI, and to exhibit smaller compensatory heart rate increases. Donors with higher affective empathy reported more symptoms, exhibited hyperventilation, and were more likely to be treated. Donors with higher cognitive empathy were less likely to require treatment if they witnessed a reaction.

Conclusion

These results suggest that psychosocial contagion of physical symptoms can occur. The moderating effects of empathy differed depending on the subtype of empathy. Perhaps a better cognitive understanding of how other people are feeling functions as a coping response, whereas feeling sympathetic about others’ distress increases one’s own.
Integrating Scalable Genome Sequencing Into Microbiology Laboratories for Routine Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance
Authors: Kekre Mihir , Arevalo Stefany Alejandra , Valencia María Fernanda , Lagrada Marietta L , Macaranas Polle Krystle V , Nagaraj Geetha , Oaikhena Anderson O , Olorosa Agnettah M , Aanensen David M ,   NIHR Global Health Research Unit on Genomic Surveillance of Antimicrobial Resistance, Abudahab Khalil , Abrudan Monica , Argimón Silvia , Harste Harry , Muddyman Dawn , Taylor Ben , Underwood Anthony , Wheeler Nicole , David Sophia , Donado-Godoy Pilar , Fabian Bernal Johan , Arevalo Alejandra , Osma Castro Erik C D , Ravikumar K L , Shamanna Varun , Govindan Vandana , Prabhu Akshata , Sravani D , Shincy M R , Rose Steffimole , Ravishankar K N , Okeke Iruka N , Afolayan Ayorinde O , Ajiboye Jolaade J , Ewomazino Odih Erkison , Carlos Celia , Gayeta June M , Herrera Elmer M , Molloy Ali , Stelling John , Vegvari Carolin
Published: September 2021

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is considered a global threat, and novel drug discovery needs to be complemented with systematic and standardized epidemiological surveillance. Surveillance data are currently generated using phenotypic characterization. However, due to poor scalability, this approach does little for true epidemiological investigations. There is a strong case for whole-genome sequencing (WGS) to enhance the phenotypic data. To establish global AMR surveillance using WGS, we developed a laboratory implementation approach that we applied within the NIHR Global Health Research Unit (GHRU) on Genomic Surveillance of Antimicrobial Resistance. In this paper, we outline the laboratory implementation at 4 units: Colombia, India, Nigeria, and the Philippines. The journey to embedding WGS capacity was split into 4 phases: Assessment, Assembly, Optimization, and Reassessment. We show that on-boarding WGS capabilities can greatly enhance the real-time processing power within regional and national AMR surveillance initiatives, despite the high initial investment in laboratory infrastructure and maintenance. Countries looking to introduce WGS as a surveillance tool could begin by sequencing select Global Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance System (GLASS) priority pathogens that can demonstrate the standardization and impact genome sequencing has in tackling AMR.
Species Composition, Abundance, and Seasonal Dynamics of Perilla Seed Bugs (Heteroptera: Lygaeidae) in Weeds and Perilla Fields in Korea
Authors: Maharjan Rameswor , Yoon Youngnam , Jang Yunwoo , Kim Juil , Yeun Nam Hwa , Jeong Mihye , Park Kido , Yi Hwijong
Published: September 2021

Perilla seed bugs (Nysius sp.) are considered to be the emerging pests causing nutritional and yield losses in perilla and cereal crops. A survey of perilla seed bugs on weeds and perilla crops was conducted over the course of 2 yr in Korea to determine the species composition, abundance, and seasonal dynamics of perilla seed bugs. Three species of Heteroptera (Nysius plebeius, Nysius hidakai, and Nysius inconspicuus), nymphs of Nysius species, and several parasitoid species were collected from weeds and perilla crops. Nysius hidakai was the most abundant perilla seed bugs. In 2019, adult perilla seed bugs, nymphs of perilla seed bugs, and parasitoid species were more abundant in weed species than in perilla crops. An early peak with a greater number of adult perilla seed bug (N. hidakai) was observed in weeds in 2020. However, an identical peak with a similar number of perilla seed bug (N. hidakai) was found in perilla crops in both years. Peak perilla seed bugs densities were observed in the 4th week of June, 2020 in weeds. Parasitoid species from Aphidiidae (1), Braconidae (11), Eulophidae (7), Figitidae (5), Ichneumonidae (7), Platygastridae (1), and Pteromalidae (5) subfamilies were collected. Perilla seed bugs seem to be a serious and increasingly important pest in several field crop species including perilla crops grown on the southern Korean peninsula. Monitoring and early detection of insect species are vital to predicting seasonal colonization and population build-up of perilla seed bugs on perilla crops from a climate change perspective, and essential for developing appropriate management techniques. Thus, continuous monitoring of perilla seed bugs in alternative weed hosts is needed to protect perilla crops from perilla seed bug infestation.
Nonparametric Parameters of 24-Hour Rest–Activity Rhythms and Long-Term Cognitive Decline and Incident Cognitive Impairment in Older Men
Authors: Xiao Qian , Sampson Joshua N , LaCroix Andrea Z , Shadyab Aladdin H , Zeitzer Jamie M , Ancoli-Israel Sonia , Yaffe Kristin , Stone Katie ,   Osteoporotic Fractures in Men (MrOS) Study Group
Published: September 2021

Altered 24-hour rest–activity rhythms may be associated with cognitive impairment in older adults, but evidence from prospective studies is limited. Nonparametric methods were used to assess actigraphy-based activity patterns in 2 496 older men. Incident cognitive impairment was assessed 4 times over 12 years using the Modified Mini-Mental State Examination (3MS) and Trails B tests, self-reported medication use, and clinical diagnosis. The highest quartile (vs the lowest) of intradaily variability and the lowest quartiles (vs the highest) of interdaily stability and relative amplitude were associated with incident cognitive impairment (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval]: 1.82 [1.31–2.53], 1.36 [0.99–1.86], and 1.85 [1.33–2.56], respectively). A larger increase in intradaily variability over 7.5 years was associated with a greater subsequent decline in 3MS scores but not in Trails B performance. In conclusion, less stable and more variable rest–activity rhythms may represent early biomarkers of cognitive impairment in older men.
Association of female reproductive tract microbiota with egg production in layer chickens
Authors: Su Yuan , Tian Shilin , Li Diyan , Zhu Wei , Wang Tao , Mishra Shailendra Kumar , Wei Ranlei , Xu Zhongxian , He Mengnan , Zhao Xiaoling , Yin Huadong , Fan Xiaolan , Zeng Bo , Yang Mingyao , Yang Deying , Ni Qingyong , Li Yan , Zhang Mingwang , Zhu Qing , Li Mingzhou
Published: September 2021

Background

The microbiota of the female reproductive tract is increasingly recognized as playing fundamental roles in animal reproduction. To explore the relative contribution of reproductive tract microbiomes to egg production in chickens, we investigated the microbiota in multiple reproductive and digestive tract sites from 128 female layer (egg-producing) chickens in comparable environments.

Results

We identified substantial differences between the diversity, composition, and predicted function of site-associated microbiota. Differences in reproductive tract microbiota were more strongly associated with egg production than those in the digestive tract. We identified 4 reproductive tract microbial species, Bacteroides fragilis, Bacteroides salanitronis, Bacteroides barnesiae, and Clostridium leptum, that were related to immune function and potentially contribute to enhanced egg production.

Conclusions

These findings provide insights into the diverse microbiota characteristics of reproductive and digestive tracts and may help in designing strategies for controlling and manipulating chicken reproductive tract microbiota to improve egg production.
Audio-Visual Mixed Reality Representation of Hazard Zones for Safe Pedestrian Navigation of a Space
Authors: San Martin Ane , Kildal Johan
Published: September 2021

It is difficult to estimate the boundaries of the hazard zones generated around autonomous machines and robots when navigating a space shared with them. We investigated the use of multimodal (auditory and/or visual) mixed-reality (MR) displays to warn users about invading such hazards zones and to help them return to safety. Two single-modality auditory and visual displays were designed, which were subjectively comparable as generic hazard displays. An experimental user study was then conducted to compare the designed single-modality displays as well as an audio-visual display that combined both. When the display included auditory information, users returned sooner to safety, although this had a small effect on performance when carrying out an independent navigation task. Additional nuanced possible differences are reported and discussed in relation to display design characteristics, as well as in relation to the limitations of the implementations that are possible with current MR head-mounted display devices.
Purebred-crossbred genetic parameters for reproductive traits in swine
Authors: Kramer Luke M , Wolc Anna , Esfandyari Hadi , Thekkoot Dinesh M , Zhang Chunyan , Kemp Robert A , Plastow Graham , Dekkers Jack C M
Published: September 2021

For swine breeding programs, testing and selection programs are usually within purebred (PB) populations located in nucleus units that are generally managed differently and tend to have a higher health level than the commercial herds in which the crossbred (CB) descendants of these nucleus animals are expected to perform. This approach assumes that PB animals selected in the nucleus herd will have CB progeny that have superior performance at the commercial level. There is clear evidence that this may not be the case for all traits of economic importance and, thus, including data collected at the commercial herd level may increase the accuracy of selection for commercial CB performance at the nucleus level. The goal for this study was to estimate genetic parameters for five maternal reproductive traits between two PB maternal nucleus populations (Landrace and Yorkshire) and their CB offspring: Total Number Born (TNB), Number Born Alive (NBA), Number Born Alive > 1 kg (NBA > 1 kg), Total Number Weaned (TNW), and Litter Weight at Weaning (LWW). Estimates were based on single-step GBLUP by analyzing any two combinations of a PB and the CB population, and by analyzing all three populations jointly. The genomic relationship matrix between the three populations was generated by using within-population allele frequencies for relationships within a population, and across-population allele frequencies for relationships of the CB with the PB animals. Utilization of metafounders for the two PB populations had no effect on parameter estimates, so the two PB populations were assumed to be genetically unrelated. Joint analysis of two (one PB plus CB) vs. three (both PB and CB) populations did not impact estimates of heritability, additive genetic variance, and genetic correlations. Heritabilities were generally similar between the PB and CB populations, except for LWW and TNW, for which PB populations had about four times larger estimates than CB. Purebred-crossbred genetic correlations (rpc) were larger for Landrace than for Yorkshire, except for NBA > 1 kg. These estimates of rpc indicate that there is potential to improve selection of PB animals for CB performance by including CB information for all traits in the Yorkshire population, but that noticeable additional gains may only occur for NBA > 1 kg and TNW in the Landrace population.