bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New treatment options for metastatic HER2-low breast cancer
Authors: Denkert Carsten , Lebeau Annette , Schildhaus Hans Ulrich , Jackisch Christian , Rüschoff Josef
Published: December 2022

The overexpression of HER2 in breast cancer is a classic example for molecular targeted therapy, and it has been shown that classical anti-HER2 therapeutics were only effective in patients with HER2 overexpressing tumors. Therefore, in recent decades, pathologists have been focused on the reliable identification of HER2 overexpressing tumors. Based on the results of recent clinical trials in metastatic breast cancer with antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), this diagnostic strategy for evaluation of HER2 is currently changing. It has been shown that the ADC trastuzumab-deruxtecan is effective not only against tumors with classical HER2 overexpression, but also against HER2-low tumors. These clinical trial results lead to a paradigm shift in the treatment of patients whose tumours were previously classified as HER2 negative. In addition to the identification of HER2 (score 3+) overexpressing tumors, it is necessary to identify HER2-low expressing tumors (defined as an immunohistochemistry (IHC) score of 1+ or IHC2+ with negative in situ hybridization).

Due to the therapeutic consequences, it is important to quickly adapt the diagnostic workup and reporting to the new requirements. In addition, the new therapeutic options for anti-HER2 therapy lead to new challenges for standardization as well as to new scientific questions for the characterization of tumors with low HER2 expression.
Towards universal comparability of pericoronary adipose tissue attenuation: a coronary computed tomography angiography phantom study
Authors: Etter Dominik , Warnock Geoff , Koszarski Frederic , Niemann Tilo , Mikail Nidaa , Bengs Susan , Buechel Ronny R. , Kaufmann Philipp , Gebhard Cathérine , Rossi Alexia
Published: December 2022

Objectives

Different computed tomography (CT) scanners, variations in acquisition protocols, and technical parameters employed for image reconstruction may introduce bias in the analysis of pericoronary adipose tissue (PCAT) attenuation derived from coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA). Therefore, the aim of this study was to establish the effect of tube voltage, measured as kilovoltage peak (kVp), and iterative reconstruction on PCAT mean attenuation (PCATMA).

Methods

Twelve healthy ex vivo porcine hearts were injected with iodine-enriched agar-agar to allow for ex vivo CCTA imaging on a 256-slice CT and a dual-source CT system. Images were acquired at tube voltages of 80, 100, 120, and 140 kVp and reconstructed by using both filtered back projection and iterative reconstruction algorithms. PCATMA was measured semi-automatically on CCTA images in the proximal segment of coronary arteries.

Results

The tube voltage showed a significant effect on PCATMA measurements on both the 256-slice CT scanner (p < 0.001) and the dual-source CT system (p = 0.013), resulting in higher attenuation values with increasing tube voltage. Similarly, the use of iterative reconstructions was associated with a significant increase of PCATMA (256-slice CT: p < 0.001 and dual-source CT: p = 0.014). Averaged conversion factors to correct PCATMA measurements for tube voltage other than 120 kVp were 1.267, 1.080 and 0.947 for 80, 100, and 140 kVp, respectively.

Conclusion

PCATMA values are significantly affected by acquisition and reconstruction parameters. The same tube voltage and reconstruction type are recommended when PCAT attenuation is used in multicenter and longitudinal studies.

Key Points

• The tube voltage used for CCTA acquisition affects pericoronary adipose tissue attenuation, resulting in higher attenuation values of fat with increasing tube voltage.

• Conversion factors for pericoronary adipose tissue attenuation values could be used to adjust for differences in attenuation between scans performed at different tube voltages.

• In longitudinal CCTA studies employing pericoronary adipose tissue attenuation as imaging endpoint, it is recommended to maintain tube voltage and image reconstruction type constant across serial scans.
Shoulder complaints and incidence of shoulder pathologies after contralateral major amputation in the mid and long-term
Authors: Rausch Valentin , Heider Maximilian , Heute Christoph , Rosteius Thomas , Seybold Dominik , Geßmann Jan , Schildhauer Thomas A. , Königshausen Matthias
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Amputations of the upper extremity are rare but present a life-altering event that is accompanied with considerable restrictions for the affected patients. Even with functional prosthesis, tasks of the amputated limb are usually transferred to the unaffected arm which could result in complaints of the unaffected shoulder in the mid and long term. We therefore aimed to investigate musculoskeletal pain and morphological degenerative changes of the shoulder following a contralateral amputation.

Materials and methods

We included all patients with a major amputation treated at our institution with a minimum of three years since the amputation. All patients received an MRI of both shoulders and were investigated using validated scores for the upper extremity and physical activity (SSV, ASES, DASH, GPAQ, SF-36). Results of the MRIs were investigated for morphological changes by two blinded investigators comparing the side of the amputation and the unharmed upper extremity and results were correlated to the time since amputation and their physical activity.

Results

A total of 20 patients with a mean age of 56 ± 19.9 years (range, 23–82 years) could be included in the study. The mean time since the amputation was 26.3 ± 19 years (range, 3–73 years). On the unharmed upper extremity, the mean SSV was 61.9 ± 24.6, the mean ASES-Score 54.5 ± 20.3, the Constant-score of 63.7 ± 40.4 and a DASH-score of 47.6 ± 23.8. The MRI of the unharmed shoulder showed significant more full-thickness rotator cuff tears and joint effusion compared to the side of the amputation. Significant differences in the degree of a glenohumeral arthritis, AC-joint arthritis, or partial rotator cuff tears could not be found between shoulders.

Conclusion

Amputations of the upper extremity are associated with a high disability of the unharmed upper extremity and more full thickness rotator cuff tears compared to the side of the amputation. However, the small number of patients and rotator cuff injuries should be kept in mind when interpreting the data.

Level of evidence

IV (retrospective case series).
Dosages of swallowing exercises in stroke rehabilitation: a systematic review
Authors: Choy Jacinda , Pourkazemi Fereshteh , Anderson Caitlin , Bogaardt Hans
Published: December 2022

Purpose

To investigate the dosages of swallowing exercises reported in intervention studies on post-stroke dysphagia through systematic review.

Methods

Five electronic databases were searched from inception until February 2022 with reference tracing of included studies. Studies were included, where adults with post-stroke dysphagia received rehabilitative, behavioural swallowing exercises, pre/post outcomes were reported, and intervention dosage was described in detail, including frequency, intensity, time, and type of exercise. Two reviewers independently screened studies and rated quality using ASHA Levels of Evidence tool. Data was tabulated and narratively described.

Results

54 studies were included with a total 1501 participants. Studies included 28 randomised controlled trials, 8 non-randomised controlled trials, 12 pre/post studies, 3 retrospective case controls and 3 case studies. Results showed inconsistent reporting of intervention dosage, with intensity the least consistently reported dosage component. While swallowing intervention was most commonly provided five times per week for four weeks, there was a wide breadth of type, frequency, intensity and duration of swallowing exercises reported. Dosage under-reporting and variation was particularly observed in “standard care” co-interventions or control groups. Study strengths included following PRISMA guidelines, providing a comprehensive review of swallowing exercise methodology and dosages, and including non-English studies. The limitation was lack of meta-analysis due to the heterogeneity of included studies.

Conclusions

Dosages of swallowing exercises are inconsistently reported and vary significantly in post-stroke dysphagia studies. Results indicate the need for consistent and comprehensive dosage reporting in dysphagia studies, and for further research into evidence-based principles to optimise swallowing exercise dosages.

Systematic review registration number

131294
A novel homozygous p.Ser69Pro SOD1 mutation causes severe young-onset ALS with decreased enzyme activity
Authors: Fahmy Nagia , Müller Kathrin , Andersen Peter Munch , Marklund Stefan L. , Otto Markus , Ludolph Albert C. , Hamdi Nabila
Published: December 2022

Background

The dose–effect of various SOD1 mutations on SOD1 enzymatic activity offers valuable insights into ALS pathogenesis with possible therapeutic implications. Homozygous SOD1 mutations, yet scarce, are of special interest. We report a novel homozygous SOD1 mutation with decreased enzymatic activity and severe early onset ALS phenotype.

Methods

Whole exome sequencing and targeted screening of commonly implicated genes were conducted. Repeat-primed PCR and fragment length analysis were used for C9orf72. Bi-directional Sanger sequencing was used for SOD1 and other genes. SOD1 activity was measured by direct spectrophotometry. Serum neurofilament light chain level was measured by the ELLA immunoassay system.

Results

The homozygous patient for a novel SOD1 variant p.Ser69Pro showed poor SOD1 enzymatic activity (16% of controls) and an early onset ALS phenotype predominantly affecting lower motor neurons with rapid involvement of the trunk, upper limbs and bulbar muscles. The asymptomatic heterozygous relatives had at least 68% of normal enzyme activity. Level of serum neurofilament light chain was much higher (148 pg/ml) in the patient than the relatives who had normal levels (6–10 pg/ml).

Conclusion

This novel mutation adds knowledge to the ALS genotype–phenotype spectrum and supports the strong dose–effect of SOD1 mutations associated with severely decreased enzymatic activity.
Aerococcus urinae — significance of detection in the paediatric urinary tract: a case series
Authors: Rast Dimitri , Evers Katrina Suzanne , Egli Adrian , Rudin Christoph , Goischke Alexandra , Ritz Nicole
Published: December 2022

Aerococcus urinae (A. urinae) is primarily recognized as a common pathogen in the geriatric population, causing urinary tract infection (UTI), sepsis, and endocarditis, predominantly in female patients. In the paediatric population, only a few case reports exist suggesting A. urinae causes malodorous urine in otherwise healthy boys. In this study, we investigated the spectrum of clinical and laboratory presentations of A. urinae detection in children. A retrospective, single-centre, case series including all patients with the detection of A. urinae during a 7-year study period. Patients with detection of A. urinae only in non-urogenital skin swabs were excluded. A total of 40 samples from 33 patients were identified of which 20 patients were included in the final analysis. The median (IQR) age was 6.8 (2.9–9.5) years; 18 (90%) patients were boys. Four patients were diagnosed with a UTI, six had malodorous urine without UTI, three were diagnosed with balanitis and seven showed A. urinae colonization in the urine culture. Urogenital disorders were present in 12 patients. Additional pathogens were detected in 13 patients. Recurrence of detection during our study period was observed in four (20%) patients.

  Conclusion: Beyond malodorous urine, A. urinae detection is associated with more severe presentations including UTI in the paediatric population. Pre-existing urogenital disorders were frequent, and therefore, a nephro-urological investigation should be considered in all cases of A. urinae detection in the paediatric population.

What is Known:• Aerococcus urinae (A. urinae) is known to be a common pathogen in the geriatric population, causing urinary tract infection (UTI), sepsis, and endocarditis, predominantly in female patients.• In the paediatric population, A. urinae is mainly described as a low-grade pathogen. Some case reports describe A. urinae as the cause of extraordinary malodorous urine in otherwise healthy boys.

What is New:• Beyond malodorous urine, A. urinae detection is associated with more severe presentations including UTI in the paediatric population.• A. urinae was mainly detected in boys with pre-existing urogenital disorders; therefore, a nephro-urological investigation should be considered in cases of A. urinae detection in the paediatric population.
A surrogate model for the prediction of permeabilities and flow through porous media: a machine learning approach based on stochastic Brownian motion
Authors: Niekamp Rainer , Niemann Johanna , Schröder Jörg
Published: December 2022

In this contribution we propose a data-driven surrogate model for the prediction of permeabilities and laminar flow through two-dimensional random micro-heterogeneous materials; here Darcy’s law is used. The philosophy of the proposed scheme is to provide a large number of training sets through a numerically “cheap” (stochastic) model instead of using an “expensive” (FEM) one. In order to achieve an efficient computational tool for the generation of the database (up to $$10^3$$

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and much more realizations), needed for the training of the neural networks, we apply a stochastic model based on the Brownian motion. An efficient algebraic algorithm compared to a classical Monte Carlo approach is based on the evaluation of stochastic transition matrices. For the encoding of the microstructure and the optimization of the surrogate model, we compare two architectures, the so-called UResNet model and the Fourier Convolutional Neural Network (FCNN). Here we analyze two FCNNs, one based on the discrete cosine transformation and one based on the complex-valued discrete Fourier transformation. Finally, we compare the flux fields and the permeabilities for independent microstructures (not used in the training set) with results from the $$\hbox {FE}^2$$

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method, a numerical homogenization scheme, in order to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed surrogate model.
Linear parallel algorithms to compute strong and branching bisimilarity
Authors: Martens Jan , Groote Jan Friso , Haak Lars B. van den , Hijma Pieter , Wijs Anton
Published: December 2022

We present the first parallel algorithms that decide strong and branching bisimilarity in linear time. More precisely, if a transition system has n states, m transitions and $$\vert Act \vert $$

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Effect of Modifiers on the Microstructure of Rapidly Solidified AlSi10Mg Alloy
Authors: Marola Silvia , Fiore Gianluca , Battezzati Livio
Published: December 2022

In this work, melt-spun ribbons of AlSi10Mg added with modifiers (Er, Sr, or nano-TiB2) were produced to investigate the combined effect of modification and rapid solidification on eutectic Si. The resulting eutectic microstructures are more isotropic in comparison to that of the base alloy affecting the mechanical properties of the alloys. The modification of Si morphology and supersaturation caused by the modifiers were investigated by microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and differential scanning calorimetry. Compared to melt-spun AlSi10Mg, the eutectic Si network is finer and less continuous when Er or Sr is added, and disrupted with rounded crystals dispersed in the matrix when adding nano-TiB2. The level of supersaturation decreases in the order Er–nano-TiB2–Sr. A transition from columnar Al grains at the wheel side to finer equiaxed grains at the air side was found in the unmodified ribbon and in the one containing nano-TiB2 by means of electron backscattered diffraction. The Er- and Sr-modified ribbons display equiaxed Al grains of constant size throughout their thickness. The average hardness obtained by nano-indentation tests was lower than that of AlSi10Mg. The less continuous Si network causes the hardness drop but provides more isotropic mechanical properties.
Robotic training for medical students: feasibility of a pilot simulation curriculum
Authors: Greenberg Anya L. , Syed Shareef M. , Alseidi Adnan , O’Sullivan Patricia S. , Chern Hueylan
Published: December 2022

While robotic procedures are growing rapidly, medical students have a limited role in robotic surgeries. Curricula are needed to enhance engagement. We examined feasibility of augmenting Intuitive Surgical (IS) robotic training for medical students. As a pilot, 18 senior students accepted an invitation to a simulation course with a daVinci robot trainer. Course teaching objectives included introducing robotic features, functionalities, and roles. A 1-h online module from the IS learning platform and a 4-h in-person session comprised the course. The in-person session included an overview of the robot by an IS trainer (1.5 h), skills practice at console (1.5 h), and a simulation exercise focused on the bedside assist role (1 h). Feasibility included assessing implementation and acceptability using a post-session survey and focus group (FG). Survey responses were compiled. FG transcripts were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis techniques. Fourteen students participated. Implementation was successful as interested students signed up and completed each of the course components. Regarding acceptability, students reported the training valuable and recommended it as preparation for robotic cases during core clerkships and sub-internships. In addition, FGs revealed 4 themes: (1) perceived expectations of students in the OR; (2) OR vs. outside-OR learning; (3) simulation of stress; and (4) opportunities to improve the simulation component. To increase preparation for the robotic OR and shift robotic training earlier in the surgical education continuum, educators should consider hands-on simulation for medical students. We demonstrate feasibility although logistics may limit scalability for large numbers of students.
Ileal Pouch-Anal Anastomosis in the Older Adult: a Review of Postoperative Outcomes and Pouchitis Treatment
Authors: Chen Sabrina L. , Faye Adam S. , Chang Shannon
Published: December 2022

Purpose of Review

Ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) has become the preferred surgical treatment for patients with medically refractive ulcerative colitis (UC). Previous studies have suggested that outcomes of this procedure may be worse in older patients; however, more recent reports have suggested that IPAA in select patients is safe, feasible, and results in good quality of life. In this review, we discuss the recent literature surrounding clinical considerations and treatment management of IPAA in older adults.

Recent Findings

IPAA complication rates and adverse events are similar in the older adult population, as compared to the younger adult patient population. Although fecal urgency and incontinence may be more common among older adults, chronological age alone is not a contraindication for IPAA surgery, as good quality of life can still be achieved. In this review, we will also discuss the development of pouchitis after IPAA, particularly among older adults, as the emergence of newer biologic drugs has shifted the treatment landscape.

IPAA can be a safe and effective treatment modality for older adults with UC, with high self-reported patient satisfaction. Patient optimization and careful case selection are vital to achieving these outcomes, and specialized preoperative assessments and counseling can help facilitate the proper treatment.
Kultur, Soziale Arbeit und Kulturelle Bildung
Authors: Thole Werner , Hübner Kerstin
Published: December 2022

Der Beitrag erörtert nach historischen Vergewisserungen die Wechselbeziehungen und die Zusammenarbeit zwischen kulturellen und sozialen Gesellschaftsbereichen, der Kulturellen Bildung und der Sozialen Arbeit. Angesichts gesellschaftlicher Veränderungen wird davon ausgegangen, dass eine konturenscharfe Trennung zwischen dem Kulturellen und dem Sozialen nicht mehr durchgängig möglich ist.
125I brachytherapy: a useful treatment to control painful osteoblastic bone metastases
Authors: Liu Yiming , Zhang Chengzhi , Xu Kaihao , Wu Kunpeng , Han Xinwei , Jiao Dechao
Published: December 2022

Backgrounds

125I brachytherapy is effective in relieving cancer pain due to osteolytic bone metastases. However, fewer studies focused on painful osteoblastic bone metastases (OBMs), we conducted a retrospective study to evaluate the efficacy of 125I brachytherapy for the treatment of painful OBMs.

Methods

From April 2017 to April 2019, clinical data of a total of 65 patients with OBMs who underwent CT/cone beam CT -guided 125I brachytherapy were collected and analyzed. The primary study endpoints were technical success, relief of pain (RoP), and quality of life (QoL). The secondary study endpoints were treatment-related complications, local tumor control (LCR), and overall survival (OS). The logistic regression analysis was performed to predict RoP.

Results

Technical success rate was 100%. Visual analog scale scores and daily morphine consumption continuously decreased significantly at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and 10 weeks (all P < 0.05). The RoP at 6 weeks was 84.62%. QoL presented improvement at 6 and 10 weeks. Only minor complications occurred in 12 patients (18.46%). LCR was 93.85% at 10 weeks. The OS was 29.80 months. Two factors were significantly associated with the RoP: max diameter (MD, < 3 cm vs. ≥ 3 cm, P = 0.019) and serum levels of bone alkaline phosphatase (B-ALP, ≥ 100 U/L vs. < 100 U/L, P = 0.016).

Conclusions

125I brachytherapy is an effective treatment in relieving painful OBMs and improving patients’ QoL.
Second Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation for Hemophagocytic Syndrome with Engraftment Failure
Authors: Jiang Fan , Liu Zhouyang , Guo Zikuan , Xiao Juan , Wu Nanhai , Fan Shifen , Yue Yan , Chen Jiao , Sun Yuan
Published: December 2022

This study aims to assess the efficacy of second allogeneic hemopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) for treating hemophagocytic syndrome with first engraftment failure. Among a total of 35 patients who underwent allo-HSCT between June 2015 and July 2021 for HLH, 10 patients who underwent a second HSCT following graft rejection were retrospectively analyzed. Various factors, such as the treatment course and outcome, the remission status, donor selection, and the conditioning regimen of patients before second allo-HSCT, were scrutinized for transplant-related complications and transplant-related mortality, as well as transplant outcomes. All the subjects have achieved complete donor engraftment, in which the neutrophils and platelets engraftment occurred in a median time of 12 d (range 10–19 d) and 24 d (range 11–97 d), respectively. Among the selected subjects, 20% of patients are diseased due to transplant-related thrombotic microangiopathy. Further, 90% of patients are diagnosed with aGVHD, in which 3 of them with grade I aGVHD, one patient with grade II aGVHD, two patients with grade III GVHD, and three patients with localized chronic GVHD. Moreover, 70% of patients showed signs of combined viral infections. Despite the complex symptoms, the overall survival rate is around 80%, with transplant-related mortality and the incidence of post-transplant GVHD of 20% and 60%, respectively. Together, our findings indicated that the second allo-HSCT showed great potential in treating hemophagocytic syndrome with engraftment failure.
Mannose-modified hyaluronic acid nanocapsules for the targeting of tumor-associated macrophages
Authors: Fernández-Mariño Iago , Anfray Clément , Crecente-Campo Jose , Maeda Akihiro , Ummarino Aldo , Teijeiro-Valiño Carmen , Blanco-Martinez Dario , Mpambani Francis , Poul Laurence , Devalliere Julie , Germain Matthieu , Correa Juan , Fernandez-Villamarin Marcos , Allavena Paola , Fernandez-Megia Eduardo , Alonso María José , Andón Fernando Torres
Published: December 2022

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), a class of immune cells that play a key role in tumor immunosuppression, are recognized as important targets to improve cancer prognosis and treatment. Consequently, the engineering of drug delivery nanocarriers that can reach TAMs has acquired special relevance. This work describes the development and biological evaluation of a panel of hyaluronic acid (HA) nanocapsules (NCs), with different compositions and prepared by different techniques, designed to target macrophages. The results showed that plain HA NCs did not significantly influence the polarization of M0 and M2-like macrophages towards an M1-like pro-inflammatory phenotype; however, the chemical functionalization of HA with mannose (HA-Man) led to a significant increase of NCs uptake by M2 macrophages in vitro and to an improved biodistribution in a MN/MNCA1 fibrosarcoma mouse model with high infiltration of TAMs. These functionalized HA-Man NCs showed a higher accumulation in the tumor compared to non-modified HA NCs. Finally, the pre-administration of the liposomal liver occupying agent Nanoprimer™ further increased the accumulation of the HA-Man NCs in the tumor. This work highlights the promise shown by the HA-Man NCs to target TAMs and thus provides new options for the development of nanomedicine and immunotherapy-based cancer treatments.

Graphical abstract
Design, synthesis, and biological investigation of quinoline/ciprofloxacin hybrids as antimicrobial and anti-proliferative agents
Authors: Ezelarab Hend A. A. , Hassan Heba A. , Abuo-Rahma Gamal El-Din A. , Abbas Samar H.
Published: December 2022

Ciprofloxacin-Piperazine C-7 linked quinoline derivatives 6a–c and 8a–c were synthesized and investigated for their antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-proliferative activities. Ciprofloxacin-quinoline-4-yl-1,3,4 oxadiazoles 6a and 6b showed promising anticancer activity against SR- leukemia and UO-31 renal cancer cell lines. The hybrids 8a–c and compound 6b exhibited noticeable antifungal activities against C.Albicans; 8a experienced the most potent antifungal activity compared to Itraconazole with MICs of 21.88 µg/mL and 11.22 µg/mL; respectively. Most of derivatives displayed better antibacterial activity than the parent ciprofloxacin against all the tested strains. Compound 6b was the most potent against the highly resistant Gram-negative K.pneumoniae with MIC 16.96 of µg/mL relative to the parent ciprofloxacin (MIC = 29.51 µg/mL). Docking studies of the tested hydrides in the active site of Topo IV enzyme of K.pneumoniae (5EIX) and S.aureus gyrase (2XCT) indicate that they had stronger binding affinity in both enzymes than ciprofloxacin but have different binding interactions. The hybrid 6b could be considered a promising lead compound for finding new dual antibacterial/anticancer agents. Moreover, Compound 8a could be a lead for discovering new dual antibacterial/antifungal agents.

Graphical abstract
Sustaining transformations: changing marine governance, environmental meaning, and ‘left behind’ Brexit narratives on the Yorkshire East Coast
Authors: Antonova Anna S.
Published: December 2022

Transformations to sustainability are frequently framed as key to blue growth, but they often engender complex consequences for communities. This article illustrates the role of environmental meaning in these processes through the lens of the Brexit vote on the Yorkshire East Coast. Based on discursive institutionalist analysis of narrative materials from semi-formal interviews conducted in 2017 alongside textual documentation from media, policy, and regional archives, I trace connections between transforming marine governance regimes, environmental meaning, and the British relationship with the EU from the Cod Wars to today. The transformation towards ecosystem-based management in British maritime governance post UNCLOS III left local communities feeling ‘left behind’ not only economically but also in terms of marginalised local meanings of place, labour, and environment. The Brexit vote, in this context, shows the multivalence of transformational processes and the importance of considering environmental meaning as part of their just execution.
An approach for simulating the air brake system of long freight trains based on fluid dynamics
Authors: Ge Xin , Chen Qinghua , Ling Liang , Zhai Wanming , Wang Kaiyun
Published: December 2022

Air brake systems are critical equipment for railway trains, which affects the running safety of the trains significantly. To study air braking characteristics of long freight trains, an approach for simulating air brake systems based on fluid dynamics theory was proposed. The structures and working mechanisms of locomotive and wagon air brakes are introduced, and mathematical models of the pipes, brake valves, reservoirs or chambers, cylinders, etc., are presented. Besides, the dynamic motions of parts in the main valve are considered. The simulation model of the whole air brake system is then formulated, and the solving method based on the finite-difference method is used. New efficient pipe boundary conditions without iterations are developed for brake pipes and branch pipes, which can achieve higher computational efficiency. The proposed approach for simulating the air brake system is validated by comparing with published measured data. Simulation results of different train formations indicate that models that consider the dynamic behavior of brake pipes are recommended for predicting the characteristics of long trains under service braking conditions.
Effect of Magnetic Field on Corrosion Performance of Ni–Co Alloy Coatings
Authors: Shetty Akshatha R. , Hegde A. Chitharanjan
Published: December 2022

The corrosion protection efficacy of Ni–Co alloy coatings was tried to improve by magnetoelectrodeposition (MED) approach. The magnetic field of varying strength (B) was applied in perpendicular and parallel to the direction of diffusion of metal ions, simultaneously to the process of deposition. The corrosion behaviour of the deposited coatings was studied through electrochemical DC method and results revealed that Magneto-electrodeposited (MED) Ni–Co alloys coatings were found to be more corrosion resistant than their conventionally electrodeposited (ED) counterparts. Moreover, the effect of magnetic field is more pronounced in perpendicular field direction and was explained by Lorentz force. Under optimal condition, MED Ni–Co alloy coating obtained at a magnetic field intensity of B = 0.3 T (Perpendicular) was found to be less prone to corrosion than its ED alloy (B = 0 T) counterpart. The increased limiting current density (iL) of Co2+ ions in turn increases the corrosion resistant properties of MED Ni–Co alloy coatings. The effect of magnetic field on improved corrosion resistance of the deposited coatings have been investigated in terms of their changed surface morphology, composition, phase structure and surface roughness using Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy dispersion spectroscopy (EDS), X-Ray diffraction (XRD) technique and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) respectively.
Supporting the integration of first-year undergraduate widening participation sport students into university: the role of online programme induction
Authors: Hayman Rick , Wood Michael , Wharton Karl , Shotton Lynette
Published: December 2022

Programme induction activities are a central feature for supporting successful student entry into university, playing an important role in ensuring they quickly settle, feel included, are motivated to learn and able to form new friendships and networks with peers and staff. Research shows how entering university can be complex and challenging for all students regardless of background and experience. This is particularly the case for widening participation students, who often encounter excessive social exclusion and financial pressures. By using Student Involvement Theory (Astin in J Coll Stud Pers 25:297–308, 1984) as a guiding theoretical framework and peer mentors as interviewees, the primary aim of this study was to explore the effectiveness of an exclusively online programme induction in supporting the integration of newly arrived first-year widening participation sports students into a post-92 British university. The key study finding was that online induction was more successful in gaining academic than social engagement. Participants devoted time and effort into their studies but had limited social involvement with other students, both from their programme and the wider university community. Practical implications for developing future online induction programme schedules to better support the transition of diverse student populations into university are presented, as are future research avenues and limitations.
Artificial intelligence in surgery: the emergency surgeon’s perspective (the ARIES project)
Authors: De Simone Belinda , Chouillard Elie , Gumbs Andrew A. , Loftus Tyler J. , Kaafarani Haytham , Catena Fausto
Published: December 2022

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been developed and implemented in healthcare with the valuable potential to reduce health, social, and economic inequities, help actualize universal health coverage, and improve health outcomes on a global scale. The application of AI in emergency surgery settings could improve clinical practice and operating rooms management by promoting consistent, high-quality decision making while preserving the importance of bedside assessment and human intuition as well as respect for human rights and equitable surgical care, but ethical and legal issues are slowing down surgeons’ enthusiasm. Emergency surgeons are aware that prioritizing education, increasing the availability of high AI technologies for emergency and trauma surgery, and funding to support research projects that use AI to provide decision support in the operating room are crucial to create an emergency “intelligent” surgery.
Genomic Shift in Population Dynamics of mcr-1-Positive Escherichia Coli in Human Carriage
Authors: Shen Yingbo , Zhang Rong , Shao Dongyan , Yang Lu , Lu Jiayue , Liu Congcong , Wang Xueyang , Jiang Junyao , Wang Boxuan , Wu Congming , Parkhill Julian , Wang Yang , Walsh Timothy R. , Gao George F. , Shen Zhangqi
Published: December 2022

Emergence of the colistin resistance gene, mcr-1, has attracted worldwide attention. Despite the prevalence of mcr-1-positive Escherichia coli (MCRPEC) strains in human carriage showing a significant decrease between 2016 and 2019, genetic differences in MCRPEC strains remain largely unknown. We therefore conducted a comparative genomic study on MCRPEC strains from fecal samples of healthy human subjects in 2016 and 2019. We identified three major differences in MCRPEC strains between these two time points. First, the insertion sequence ISApl1 was often deleted and the percentage of mcr-1-carrying IncI2 plasmids was increased in MCRPEC strains in 2019. Second, the antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), aac(3)-IVa and blaCTX-M-1, emerged and coexisted with mcr-1 in 2019. Third, MCRPEC strains in 2019 contained more virulence genes, resulting in an increased proportion of extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC) strains (36.1%) in MCRPEC strains in 2019 compared to that in 2016 (10.5%), implying that these strains could occupy intestinal ecological niches by competing with other commensal bacteria. Our results suggest that despite the significant reduction in the prevalence of MCRPEC strains in humans from 2016 to 2019, MCRPEC exhibits increased resistance to other clinically important ARGs and contains more virulence genes, which may pose a potential public health threat.
Barriers to and solutions for representative inclusion across the lifespan and in life course research: The need for structural competency highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: LeCroy Madison N. , Potter Lindsey N. , Bandeen-Roche Karen , Bianco Monica E. , Cappola Anne R. , Carter Ebony B. , Dayan Peter S. , Eckstrom Elizabeth , Edwards Dorothy F. , Farabi Sarah S. , Fisher Sheehan D. , Giordano Judy , Hanson Heidi A. , Jenkins Emerald , Juhn Young , Kaskel Frederick , Stake Christine E. , Reeds Dominic N. , Schleiss Mark R. , Wafford Q. Eileen , McColley Susanna A.
Published: December 2022

Exclusion of special populations (older adults; pregnant women, children, and adolescents; individuals of lower socioeconomic status and/or who live in rural communities; people from racial and ethnic minority groups; individuals from sexual or gender minority groups; and individuals with disabilities) in research is a pervasive problem, despite efforts and policy changes by the National Institutes of Health and other organizations. These populations are adversely impacted by social determinants of health (SDOH) that reduce access and ability to participate in biomedical research. In March 2020, the Northwestern University Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute hosted the “Lifespan and Life Course Research: integrating strategies” “Un-Meeting” to discuss barriers and solutions to underrepresentation of special populations in biomedical research. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted how exclusion of representative populations in research can increase health inequities. We applied findings of this meeting to perform a literature review of barriers and solutions to recruitment and retention of representative populations in research and to discuss how findings are important to research conducted during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. We highlight the role of SDOH, review barriers and solutions to underrepresentation, and discuss the importance of a structural competency framework to improve research participation and retention among special populations.
Thatcher's Policy Unit and the “Neoliberal Vision”
Authors: Davies Aled , Freeman James , Pemberton Hugh
Published: December 2022

Using recently released papers, we analyze an attempted neoliberal policy revolution in 1980s Britain—the attempt to restrict the state pension to a minimal flat-rate benefit and supplement it with personal pensions. In the process, the government would abolish both the state earnings-related pension and collective employer-provided occupational pension schemes that then covered about half the workforce and owned about a quarter of all shares listed on the London Stock Exchange. Unusually, our focus is not primarily on ministers, as we unpick an attempted revolution that would have refashioned every worker in Britain as an investor-capitalist. Rather we focus on a sub-ministerial center of political power, the No. 10 Policy Unit, and the influence on it of the Centre for Policy Studies, a right-wing think tank. In doing so, we confirm the latter's importance as source of neoliberal ideas for the architects of policy change in the 1980s and reveal the centrality of the Policy Unit as a source of motive power for Britain's neoliberal revolution. We also, however, highlight the relative pragmatism of ministers as they backed away from the Policy Unit's attempted revolution, choosing instead to implement a more evolutionary set of reforms.
Dynamics of non-coalescence in unequal sized, conducting multi-droplet system suspended in an insulating medium under an electric field
Authors: Roy Subhankar , Anand Vikky , Thaokar Rochish M.
Published: December 2022

An intriguing experimental observation in electrocoalescence of water-in-oil emulsions is the occurrence of a very low critical electric field, beyond which chaining of droplets and shorting of electrodes is observed, as compared with the experimental and theoretical predictions based on two equal sized water droplets in oil. Motivated by these observations, a numerical, analytical and experimental study on the interaction between multiple, unequal sized, perfectly conducting droplets in a perfectly dielectric medium under an electric field is presented here. We show that the critical capillary number (

$Ca_c$

), based on the bigger droplet, in a two droplet system, reduces as the radius ratio of the smaller to bigger drop decreases. Secondly, in a system of three equally sized droplets, it is expected that the

$Ca_c$

will be smaller than a two equal sized droplet system, since the electric field experienced by the central droplet is higher when surrounded by two droplets instead of one. Our results show that nonlinearity in the system due to both the asymmetric shape deformation and the electrostatic interaction between the multiple droplets, leads to significant reduction in

$Ca_c$

for onset of non-coalescence in an unequal sized two droplet system or for equal and unequal sized three droplet systems, as compared with

$Ca_c$

for two equal sized droplets. This is possibly one of the underlying mechanisms for observing much smaller

$Ca_c$

in emulsions as compared with a system of two equal sized droplets, and could be responsible for a polydisperse water-in-oil emulsion being exceptionally susceptible to chaining under an electric field.
The rangeomorph fossil Charnia from the Ediacaran Shibantan biota in the Yangtze Gorges area, South China
Authors: Wu Chengxi , Pang Ke , Chen Zhe , Wang Xiaopeng , Zhou Chuanming , Wan Bin , Yuan Xunlai , Xiao Shuhai
Published: December 2022

The terminal Ediacaran Shibantan biota (~550–543 Ma) from the Dengying Formation in the Yangtze Gorges area of South China represents one of the rare examples of carbonate-hosted Ediacara-type macrofossil assemblages. In addition to the numerically dominant taxa—the non-biomineralizing tubular fossil Wutubus and discoidal fossils Aspidella and Hiemalora, the Shibantan biota also bears a moderate diversity of frondose fossils, including Pteridinium, Rangea, Arborea, and Charnia. In this paper, we report two species of the rangeomorph genus Charnia, including the type species Charnia masoni Ford, 1958 emend. and Charnia gracilis new species, from the Shibantan biota. Most of the Shibantan Charnia specimens preserve only the petalodium, with a few bearing the holdfast and stem. Despite overall architectural similarities to other Charnia species, the Shibantan specimens of Charnia gracilis n. sp. are distinct in their relatively straight, slender, and more acutely angled first-order branches. They also show evidence that may support a two-stage growth model and a epibenthic sessile lifestyle. Charnia fossils described herein represent one of the youngest occurrences of this genus and extend its paleogeographic and stratigraphic distributions. Our discovery also highlights the notable diversity of the Shibantan biota, which contains examples of a wide range of Ediacaran morphogroups.

UUID: http://zoobank.org/837216cd-4a4a-4e13-89e2-ee354ba48a4c
Encouraged to Cheat? Federal Incentives and Career Concerns at the Sub-national Level as Determinants of Under-Reporting of COVID-19 Mortality in Russia
Authors: Kofanov Dmitrii , Kozlov Vladimir , Libman Alexander , Zakharov Nikita
Published: December 2022

This article investigates the determinants and consequences of manipulating COVID-19 statistics in an authoritarian federation using the Russian case. It abandons the interpretation of the authoritarian regime as a unitary actor and acknowledges the need to account for a complex interaction of various bureaucratic and political players to understand the spread and the logic of manipulation. Our estimation strategy takes advantage of a natural experiment where the onset of the pandemic adjourned the national referendum enabling new presidential terms for Putin. To implement the rescheduled referendum, Putin needed sub-national elites to manufacture favourable COVID-19 statistics to convince the public that the pandemic was under control. While virtually all regions engaged in data manipulation, there was a substantial variation in the degree of misreporting. A third of this variation can be explained by an asynchronous schedule of regional governors’ elections, winning which depends almost exclusively on support from the federal authorities.
An archaeological evaluation of the Olmec “royal tombs” at La Venta, Mexico
Authors: Gillespie Susan D. , Volk Michael
Published: December 2022

At La Venta, Mexico, the Middle Formative Olmec regional center, the existence of individual leaders is interpreted from the evidence of monumental stone portraiture and several tombs believed to house the bodies of a sequence of kings late in La Venta's history. The status of these latter features as graves, however, has been debated since soon after they were excavated in the 1940s, especially because they generally lacked osteological material. What remained was arrangements of costume items as if adorning a body, usually associated with a stone container. Most archaeologists have advanced the reasonable explanation that bones and teeth would not have survived in tropical environments and accepted both the tomb attribution and their function as individual funerary monuments. A detailed review of available information from the La Venta excavations reveals these assumptions are not warranted. Field data indicate the absence of expected taphonomic evidence of bodily decay. Analysis of the stratigraphy of Mound A-2, aided, by computer-enhanced imaging of field drawings, demonstrates its tomb-like features were erected in a single, short construction phase, not over a span of decades as individual kings died. These conclusions call for alternative explanations of these “surrogate burials,” absent bodies materially evoked by ritual officiants.
Central banks’ interventions in exchange rate markets during the international gold standard: Italy 1880–1913
Authors: Di Martino Paolo
Published: December 2022

This article reconstructs the history of direct interventions in exchange rate markets performed by the leading Italian banks of issue: the Banca Nazionale until 1893, then the Banca d'Italia between 1894 and 1913. The article shows that this type of operation represented a constant and relevant commitment for both institutions; interventions were made in the bills and/or the bonds market, sometimes also in conjunction with increases in the discount rate. Although often successful in the initial stages, until 1904 institutional provisions severely constrained the accumulation of foreign assets in the banks’ portfolios therefore reducing the viability, and hence the overall effectiveness, of these interventions.
Tricuspid atresia and common arterial trunk: a rare form of CHD
Authors: Weld Julia , Lee Brian , Loomba Rohit S. , Siddiqui Saad , Jaji Amina , Vricella Luca , Hibino Narutoshi , Anderson Robert H. , Elzein Chawki
Published: December 2022

Tricuspid atresia with common arterial trunk is a very rare association in complex CHD. This association has even more infrequently been documented concomitantly with interrupted aortic arch. We present the diagnosis and initial surgical management of an infant with a fetal diagnosis of tricuspid atresia and common arterial trunk, with additional postnatal finding of interrupted aortic arch with interruption between the left common carotid and left subclavian artery. Due to the infant’s small size, she was initially palliated with bilateral pulmonary artery bands and a ductal stent. This was followed by septation of the common arterial trunk and interrupted aortic arch repair and 4 mm right subclavian artery to main pulmonary artery shunt placement at two months of age. She was discharged home on day of life 81.