bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Box‐Behnken assisted development and validation of high‐performance liquid chromatography method for the simultaneous determination of doxorubicin and vorinostat in polymeric nanoparticles
Authors: Sokol Maria , Gulyaev Ivan , Mollaeva Mariia , Kuznetsov Sergey , Zenin Vladimir , Klimenko Maksim , Yabbarov Nikita , Chirkina Margarita , Nikolskaya Elena
Published: November 2022

While histone deacetylase inhibitors, such as vorinostat, demonstrate a significant effect against hematological cancers, their application for solid tumor treatment is limited. However, there is strong evidence that combinatorial administration of vorinostat and genotoxic agents (e.g., doxorubicin) enhances the antitumoral action of both drugs against tumors. We developed a high‐performance liquid chromatography method for the simultaneous determination of doxorubicin and vorinostat in polymeric nanoparticles designed to provide the parenteral administration of both drugs and increase their safety profile. We performed separation on Nucleodur C‐18 Gravity column with a mixture of 10 mM potassium dihydrogen phosphate buffer pH 3.9:ACN (90:10 v/v) as mobile phase at 240 nm. The method was linear within the concentration range of 4.2–52.0 μg/ml for both drugs with limits of detection and quantification of 3.5 and 10.7 μg/ml for doxorubicin and 2.5 and 7.7 μg/ml for vorinostat, respectively. The method was precise and accurate over the concentration range of analysis. Drug loading was 5.4% for doxorubicin and 0.8% for vorinostat. Degradation of doxorubicin after irradiation was less than 5%, while the amount of vorinostat decreased at 88% under the same conditions. Thus, the validated method could be adopted for routine simultaneous analysis of doxorubicin and vorinostat in polymeric nanoparticles.
Tympanostomy Tube Placement in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Yan Flora , Shah Arnav , Isaacson Glenn
Published: November 2022

Objective

The frequency of tympanostomy tube (TT) placement among United States children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is not known. We explored the rate of TT placement in children with ASD in the United States and compared this to children without ASD. We further examined demographic and behavioral factors that might vary between the two groups.

Methods

We utilized data from the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) administered in 2014. This survey samples a representative population of patients across the United States and includes children under 18 years of age. The 2014 version of the NHIS survey was chosen as it identifies both autism and TT placement among sampled patients. Descriptive statistics and univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed.

Results

In total, 11,730 children (239 [2.0%] with ASD) were included. Overall, 34 (14.2%) children with ASD underwent TT placement versus 987 (8.6%) in children without ASD (p = 0.002) ASD diagnosis was associated with increased odds of TT placement (1.52 OR, 95% CI 1.04–2.22). Male sex, white race, and non‐Hispanic ethnicity were also associated with increased odds of TT placement. Age at the time of TT surgery was not different between those with versus without ASD.

Conclusion

Children with ASD have an increased rate of TT placement compared to children without ASD. The reason(s) for this increased rate might include the following: higher rates of infection in ASD, over‐diagnosis of ear infection or hearing disability in a difficult‐to‐examine population, and/or a predilection toward aggressive treatment in this at‐risk group.

Level of Evidence

3‐National database study Laryngoscope, 133:2407–2412, 2023
Light and hydrologic connectivity drive dissolved oxygen synchrony in stream networks
Authors: Diamond Jacob S. , Pinay Gilles , Bernal Susana , Cohen Matthew J. , Lewis David , Lupon Anna , Zarnetske Jay , Moatar Florentina
Published: November 2022

Stream dissolved oxygen (DO) dynamics are an outcome of metabolic activity and subsequently regulate ecosystem functions such as in‐stream solute and sediment reactions. The synchronization of DO signals in and across stream networks is both a cause and effect of the mode and timing of these functions, but there is limited empirical evidence for network patterns of DO synchrony. We used high frequency DO measurements at 42 sites spanning five catchments and stream orders to evaluate DO signal synchrony in response to variation in light (a driver of photosynthesis) and discharge (a control on DO signal spatial extent). We hypothesized that stream network DO synchrony arises when regional controls dominate: when light inputs are synchronous and when longitudinal hydrologic connectivity is high. By complement, we predicted that DO signal synchrony decreases as light becomes more asynchronous and stream flows decline or become discontinuous. Our results supported this hypothesis: greater DO signal synchrony arose with increasing light synchrony and flow connectivity. A model including these two controls explained 70% of variation in DO synchrony. We conclude that DO synchrony patterns within‐ and across‐networks support the current paradigm of discharge and light control on stream metabolic activity. Finally, we propose that DO synchrony patterns are likely a useful prerequisite for scaling subdaily metabolism estimates to network and regional scales.
Influence of Temperature and Dose Rate of E‐Beam Modification on Electron‐Induced Changes in Polyacrylonitrile Fibers
Authors: Leopold Anne‐Katrin , Müller Michael Thomas , Zimmerer Cordelia , Bogar Mohsen Sadeghi , Richter Mirko , Wolz Daniel Sebastian , Stommel Markus
Published: November 2022

The present study investigates the influence of modification temperature and the dose rate of electron modification on the progress of these and the three important thermal induced reactions namely: cyclization, dehydrogenation, and oxidation. Since electron induced chemical reactions strongly depend on the polymer chain segment mobility, temperatures below the glass transition temperature (Tg) and above Tg are tested. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy measurements show the presence of alkyl‐, peroxy‐, and polyimineradicals alongside each other. Gel measurements identified a temperature dependent crosslinking behavior at doses ⩽ 150 kGy, but no dose rate depending on crosslinking. Changes in chemical structure are investigated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), showing a dependency of stabilization behavior depending on dose and temperate more than on dose rate. Thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurements complete the analyses by describing the behavior during further thermal treatments and measuring the residual mass at 800 °C.
A time‐series perspective on executive functioning: The benefits of a dynamic approach to random number generation
Authors: Oomens Wouter , Maes Joseph H. R. , Hasselman Fred , Egger Jos I. M.
Published: November 2022

Objectives

Executive functioning (EF) is a key topic in neuropsychology. A multitude of underlying processes and constructs have been suggested to explain EF, which are measured by at least as many different neuropsychological tests. However, these tests often refer to summary statistics to quantify the construct under study, failing to capture the dynamic nature of EF. An alternative to these summary statistics is a time‐series approach that quantifies all the available temporal information.

Methods

We used recurrence quantification analysis (RQA) to quantify the characteristics of any temporal pattern in random number generation data and we compared RQA to the traditional and static analysis of random number sequences.

Results

The traditional measures yield inconsistent results with increasing sequences length, both for computer‐generated and human‐generated sequences, whereas the RQA measures do not.

Conclusion

The results suggest that a time‐series approach does a better job at modelling what is happening on different time‐scales, and, therefore, is better at explaining how EF is changing in the course of the random number generation task. We argue that it is likely that these findings also apply to other neuropsychological EF tests, and that a time‐series approach is an important addition to the study of EF.
Truly reproducible uniform estimation of the ADC with multi‐b diffusion data— Application in prostate diffusion imaging
Authors: Kuczera Stefan , Langkilde Fredrik , Maier Stephan E.
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The ADC is a well‐established parameter for clinical diagnostic applications, but lacks reproducibility because it is also influenced by the choice diffusion weighting level. A framework is evaluated that is based on multi‐b measurement over a wider range of diffusion‐weighting levels and higher order tissue diffusion modeling with retrospective, fully reproducible ADC calculation.

Methods

Averaging effect from curve fitting for various model functions at 20 linearly spaced b‐values was determined by means of simulations and theoretical calculations. Simulation and patient multi‐b image data were used to compare the new approach for diffusion‐weighted image and ADC map reconstruction with and without Rician bias correction to an active clinical trial protocol probing three non‐zero b‐values.

Results

Averaging effect at a certain b‐value varies for model function and maximum b‐value used. Images and ADC maps from the novel procedure are on‐par with the clinical protocol. Higher order modeling and Rician bias correction is feasible, but comes at the cost of longer computation times.

Conclusions

Application of the new framework makes higher order modeling more feasible in a clinical setting while still providing patient images and reproducible ADC maps of adequate quality.
Prep your campus for the opportunity to offer Pell Grants to incarcerated students
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: November 2022

Earlier this year, the U.S. Department of Education announced that it will reinstate Pell Grant eligibility for incarcerated students, starting with the 2023–2024 academic year, reversing a 1994 decision that barred incarcerated people from accessing Pell funds. That decision came with the passage of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid Simplification Act and will go into effect July 1, 2023. Findings by the Prison Policy Institute found that restoring Pell Grant access could make approximately 463,000 people eligible for free college courses.
Accumulation agents and bird assemblages: The case of the TE9d level at Sima del Elefante (Sierra de Atapuerca, Spain)
Authors: Marqueta Mario , Huguet Rosa , Núñez‐Lahuerta Carmen
Published: November 2022

Bird assemblages can be found in archeological sites throughout the Pleistocene. Taphonomy studies are key to understanding how such assemblages were formed. These assemblages can be generated by various agents, including human groups, animals, and natural death. In this paper, we analyzed the avifaunal assemblage from level TE9d at the Sima del Elefante site, where corvid (Corvidae) remains are the most abundant taxa, as reported in previous studies from that deposit. The remains of smaller birds (Charadriiformes, Rallidae) and large raptors (Aquila cf. heliaca/adalberti, Haliaeetus albicilla) have also been documented. Our taphonomic analysis shows that birds of prey were the main accumulators of bird remains at the site. The presence of modifications such as beak/talon marks and different degrees of digestion reinforce the idea that both diurnal and nocturnal raptors were involved. Nevertheless, we cannot rule out the accumulation by natural death of those species that could have nested in the rocky walls of the cave. The absence of evidence of anthropogenic activity on the bird remains from level TE9d therefore indicates that hominins were not involved in this accumulation. These results can be considered a new contribution to the discussion on the origin of avifaunal accumulations in Pleistocene archeological contexts.
Health‐related quality of life in children and adolescents with pleuropulmonary blastoma: A report from the International PPB/DICER1 Registry
Authors: Nelson Alexander T. , Dybvik Anna , Mallinger Paige , Weiss McQuaid Shelly , Watson Dave , Harney Laura A. , Stewart Douglas R. , Dehner Louis P. , Messinger Yoav H. , Kunin‐Batson Alicia S. , Schultz Kris Ann P.
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Pleuropulmonary blastoma (PPB) is the most common lung cancer of infancy and early childhood and is associated with germline DICER1 variants. Type I and Ir PPB are cystic lesions treated surgically, with a subset of children with type I receiving chemotherapy. Type II and III are more aggressive lesions, treated with surgery, intensive chemotherapy and potentially radiation. We sought to assess health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) in children with PPB and known germline DICER1 variants.

Methods

Children with a diagnosis of PPB or germline DICER1 pathogenic variant without history of PPB or other DICER1‐related neoplasm (DICER1+ only) were enrolled in the International PPB/DICER1 Registry. Parent reports for participants aged 2–17 years for the PedsQL v.4 and PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale v.3 were collected. Fatigue, physical, and psychosocial function scores were compared.

Results

Analysis included 84 participants (PPB type Ir = 20, type I = 15, type II/III = 27, DICER1+ only = 22). Total fatigue scores of participants with type I and II/III PPB were lower compared to DICER1+ only, with effect size larger in type II/III (−0.82 vs. −0.40). Total psychosocial and physical functioning scores were lower in participants with type I and type II/III PPB compared to DICER1+ only, with larger effects noted in type II/III. Female sex was suggestive of worse HRQoL for both type I/Ir and type II/III cohorts.

Conclusions

These data demonstrate the importance of regular HRQoL assessment in patients with a history of PPB as well as the importance and feasibility of studying HRQoL in children with rare tumors.
Film formation of hard‐core/soft‐shell latex particles
Authors: Brito Elvis Lopes , Ballard Nicholas
Published: November 2022

Multiphase latex particles can be used to overcome some of the limitations with regards to the mechanical properties of films cast from homogeneous latexes while maintaining a reasonably low minimum film formation temperature (MFFT). In this work, we focus on the synthesis and film formation behavior of a series of hard‐core/soft‐shell latexes with varying compositions. It is shown that below a hard‐core content of around 60 wt% the MFFT is almost exclusively dependent on the glass transition temperature of the polymer that forms the soft‐shell. Above hard‐core contents of 60 wt% there is an abrupt increase of the MFFT and film formation is significantly restricted. This behavior is ascribed to the packing behavior of the hard phase. It is shown that the MFFT can be decreased by the use of blends of core‐shell particles of different size such that the packing fraction of the hard domains is improved. This is demonstrated by the counterintuitive result that a blend of two latexes with high MFFT can result in a latex with significantly reduced MFFT. The mechanical properties of the resulting films are also explored in order to determine the limits of hard‐core/soft‐shell systems with regards to their use in coatings applications.
Pediatric pulmonology 2021 year in review: Rare and diffuse lung disease
Authors: Popler Jonathan , Vece Timothy J. , Liptzin Deborah R. , Gower William A.
Published: November 2022

The field of rare and diffuse pediatric lung disease is experiencing rapid progress as diagnostic and therapeutic options continue to expand. In this annual review, we discuss manuscripts published in Pediatric Pulmonology in 2021 in (1) children's interstitial and diffuse lung disease, (2) congenital airway and lung malformations, and (3) noncystic fibrosis bronchiectasis including primary ciliary dyskinesia. These include case reports, descriptive cohorts, trials of therapies, animal model studies, and review articles. The results are put into the context of other literature in the field. Each furthers the field in important ways, while also highlighting the continued need for further studies.
Antimicrobial, cytotoxic, and insulin‐releasing activities of the amphibian host‐defense peptide ocellatin‐3N and its L‐lysine‐substituted analogs
Authors: Conlon J. Michael , Hunter Lauren , Attoub Samir , Casciaro Bruno , Mechkarska Milena , Abdel‐Wahab Yasser H. A.
Published: November 2022

The host‐defense peptide ocellatin‐3N (GIFDVLKNLAKGVITSLAS.NH2), first isolated from the Caribbean frog Leptodactylus nesiotus, inhibited growth of clinically relevant Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria as well as a strain of the major emerging yeast pathogen Candida parapsilosis. Increasing cationicity while maintaining amphipathicity by the substitution Asp4→Lys increased potency against the microorganisms by between 4‐ and 16‐fold (MIC ≤3 μM) compared with the naturally occurring peptide. The substitution Ala18→Lys and the double substitution Asp4→Lys and Ala18→Lys had less effects on potency. The [D4K] analog also showed 2.5‐ to 4‐fold greater cytotoxic potency against non‐small‐cell lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells, breast adenocarcinoma MDA‐MB‐231 cells, and colorectal adenocarcinoma HT‐29 cells (LC50 values in the range of 12–20 μM) compared with ocellatin‐3N but was less hemolytic to mouse erythrocytes. However, the peptide showed no selectivity for tumor‐derived cells [LC50 = 20 μM for human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs)]. Ocellatin‐3N and [D4K]ocellatin‐3N stimulated the release of insulin from BRIN‐BD11 clonal β‐cells at concentrations ≥1 nM, and [A18K]ocellatin‐3N, at concentrations ≥0.1 nM. No peptide stimulated the release of lactate dehydrogenase at concentrations up to 3 μM, indicating that plasma membrane integrity had been preserved. The three peptides produced an increase in intracellular [Ca2+] in BRIN‐BD11 cells when incubated at a concentration of 1 μM. In view of its high insulinotropic potency and relatively low hemolytic activity, the [A18K] ocellatin analog may represent a template for the design of agents with therapeutic potential for the treatment of patients with type 2 diabetes.
Phenotypical statin‐associated immune‐mediated necrotizing myositis with histological features of inclusion body myositis
Authors: Daver Nicole , Tonini Sara
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Statin‐associated immune‐mediated necrotizing myositis (IMNM) is a rare but distinct idiopathic inflammatory myopathy (IIM) that requires early recognition and intervention to prevent irreversible muscle damage. It is typically characterized by active statin use, elevated creatinine kinase (CK) levels, proximal muscle weakness, and at times, a positive 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methyl‐glutaryl‐coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR) antibody. Treatment includes immediate discontinuation of the statin and may include corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), and/or immunosuppressive therapy. Inclusion body myositis (IBM), another distinct IIM, also presents with elevated CK levels but with insidious onset of distal upper and proximal lower extremity weakness and is typically refractory to treatment.

Case Description

A 64‐year‐old female patient presented with proximal muscle weakness, elevated CK levels, and a positive HMGCR antibody in the setting of statin use with muscle pathology suggestive of both statin‐associated IMNM and IBM. She responded to subcutaneous methotrexate and a slow prednisone taper over several months, however, will require close monitoring for symptoms associated with either disease.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we report a case of muscle weakness with muscle pathology demonstrating both statin‐associated IMNM and IBM. This case highlights the importance of understanding the clinical and pathological features of statin‐associated IMNM and IBM.
Global polio eradication; can we replicate the smallpox success story?
Authors: Javed Haseeba , Rizvi Musa Ali , Fahim Zara , Ehsan Muhammad , Javed Mubeena , Raza Muhammad Asad
Published: November 2022

Although the Global Polio Eradication Initiative has been largely successful in elimination of polio from various parts of the world, sporadic local outbreaks in non‐endemic areas continue to pose a threat to global polio eradication efforts. In the two endemic countries, Pakistan and Afghanistan, a staggering 176 cases of wild poliovirus 1 (WPV1) were reported in 2019. In 2020 alone, 959 cases of Circulating Vaccine Derived Poliovirus 2 were reported globally from 27 countries. After staying polio‐free for years, cases of WPV were detected in Malawi and Mozambique in 2022. The roots of the reported strains matched with the WPV strain from Pakistan. The emergence of WPV cases in Malawi and Mozambique underscores the fact that WPV still has the chance to spread beyond the Afghanistan‐Pakistan region and sustained efforts are required for its complete eradication. In the case of smallpox, surveillance‐containment was the key to eradication as many countries had already eradicated smallpox and the bigger concern was to track and contain any new cases emerging. Smallpox eradication followed a comprehensive plan which included elements like quality control and standardisation of vaccination protocols. Governments all over the world should prioritise immunisation drives, surveillance, and awareness campaigns to achieve the dream of a polio‐free world.
Using Unoccupied Aerial Vehicles to estimate availability and group size error for aerial surveys of coastal dolphins
Authors: Brown Alexander M. , Allen Simon J. , Kelly Nat , Hodgson Amanda J.
Published: November 2022

Aerial surveys are frequently used to estimate the abundance of marine mammals, but their accuracy is dependent upon obtaining a measure of the availability of animals to visual detection. Existing methods for characterizing availability have limitations and do not necessarily reflect true availability. Here, we present a method of using small, vessel‐launched, multi‐rotor Unoccupied Aerial Vehicles (UAVs, or drones) to collect video of dolphins to characterize availability and investigate error surrounding group size estimates. We collected over 20 h of aerial video of dive‐surfacing behaviour across 32 encounters with Australian humpback dolphins Sousa sahulensis off north‐western Australia. Mean surfacing and dive periods were 7.85 sec (se = 0.26) and 39.27 sec (se = 1.31) respectively. Dolphin encounters were split into 56 focal follows of consistent group composition to which example approaches to estimating availability were applied. Non‐instantaneous availability estimates, assuming a 7 sec observation window, ranged between 0.22 and 0.88, with a mean availability of 0.46 (CV = 0.34). Availability tended to increase with increasing group size. We found a downward bias in group size estimation, with true group size typically one individual more than would have been estimated by a human observer during a standard aerial survey. The variability of availability estimates between focal follows highlights the importance of sampling across a variety of group sizes, compositions and environmental conditions. Through data re‐sampling exercises, we explored the influence of sample size on availability estimates and their precision, with results providing an indication of target sample sizes to minimize bias in future research. We show that UAVs can provide an effective and relatively inexpensive method of characterizing dolphin availability with several advantages over existing approaches. The example estimates obtained for humpback dolphins are within the range of values obtained for other shallow‐water, small cetaceans, and will directly inform a government‐run program of aerial surveys in the region.
Platelet Membrane Cloaked Nanotubes to Accelerate Thrombolysis by Thrombus Clot‐Targeting and Penetration
Authors: Liu Bin , Victorelli Francesca , Yuan Yu , Shen Yi , Hong Hui , Hou Guohua , Liang Shuang , Li Zekun , Li Xin , Yin Xindi , Ren Fazheng , Li Yuan
Published: November 2022

Thrombotic diseases have a high rate of mortality and disability, and pose a serious threat to global public health. Currently, most thrombolytic drugs especially protein drugs have a short blood‐circulation time, resulting in low thrombolytic efficiency. Therefore, a platelet membrane (Pm) cloaked nanotube (NT‐RGD/Pm) biomimetic delivery system with enhanced thrombolytic efficiency is designed. Nanotubes (NT) with an excellent clot‐penetration properties are used to load a protein thrombolytic drug urokinase (Uk). Platelet‐targeting arginine glycine‐aspartic peptide (RGD) is grafted onto the surface of the nanotubes (NT‐RGD) prior to cloaking. Multiple particle tracking (MPT) technique and confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM) analysis are applied and the results show that the nanotubes possess a strong penetration and diffusion capacity in thrombus clots. After the Pm cloaking on NT‐RGD/Uk, it shows a thrombus microenvironmental responsive release property and the half‐life of Uk is six times longer than that of free Uk. Most importantly, NT‐RGD‐Uk/Pm exhibits a 60% thrombolytic efficiency in the FeCl3‐induced thrombosis mouse model, and it is able to significantly reduce the bleeding side effects of Uk. This Pm‐cloaked nanotube system is an effective and promising platform for the controlled and targeted delivery of drugs for the thrombus treatment.
xDEVS: A toolkit for interoperable modeling and simulation of formal discrete event systems
Authors: Risco‐Martín José L. , Mittal Saurabh , Henares Kevin , Cardenas Román , Arroba Patricia
Published: November 2022

Employing Modeling and Simulation (M&S) extensively to analyze and develop complex systems is the norm today. The use of robust M&S formalisms and rigorous methodologies is essential to deal with complexity. Among them, the Discrete Event System Specification (DEVS) provides a solid framework for modeling structural, behavior and information aspects of any complex system. This gives several advantages to analyze and design complex systems: completeness, verifiability, extensibility, and maintainability. DEVS formalism has been implemented in many programming languages and executable on multiple platforms. In this paper, we describe the features of an M&S framework called xDEVS that builds upon the prevalent DEVS Application Programming Interface (API) for both modeling and simulation layers, promoting interoperability between the existing platform‐specific (C++, Java, Python) DEVS implementations. Additionally, the framework can simulate the same model using sequential, parallel, or distributed architectures. The M&S engine has been reinforced with several strategies to improve performance, as well as tools to perform model analysis and verification. Finally, xDEVS also facilitates systems engineers to apply the vision of model‐based systems engineering (MBSE), model‐driven engineering (MDE), and model‐driven systems engineering (MDSE) paradigms. We highlight the features of the proposed xDEVS framework with multiple examples and case studies illustrating the rigor and diversity of application domains it can support.
Potential health hazard of drinking water in restaurants and tea stalls
Authors: Karim Md. Rezaul , Khan Habibur Rahman Bejoy , Ahsan Amimul , Rahadujjaman Md. , Alam Shadman , Hasan Rakibul , Sharif Tabriz Tajwar , Farooq Saad
Published: November 2022

Potable and equitable drinking water (DW) is a fundamental human right and essential for human health. This study is conducted to assess the groundwater and jar water quality of the roadside restaurants and tea stalls used for drinking by the local people around the Gazipur City area in Bangladesh. Water samples from 173 restaurants and tea stalls are collected. The physico‐chemical and biological parameters are analyzed according to the guidelines and standards. The results illustrate that the color, EC, and Mn of 41%, 80%, and 62% of the samples, respectively, exceed the WHO and Environmental Conservation Rules (ECR) standards. In addition, E. coli and total coliform exceeding the threshold standards are found in 47% and 64% of the water samples, respectively. The contamination of DW by fecal coliforms is confirmed and supported by prior studies, which indicates that the DW supplied in restaurants and tea stalls are unsafe because of the possible presence of pathogens. These may cause potential health hazards to consumers from various water‐borne diseases. Poor sanitation, unhygienic practices, and improper disposal of wastewater are responsible for the microbial contamination of DW. So, the authorities in charge of these places should take the right regulatory steps, such as regular sanitation inspections, DW quality monitoring, hand‐washing practices, and better sanitation in these places.
Veterinarians’ use of shared decision making during on‐farm interactions with dairy and beef producers
Authors: DeGroot Antonia , Coe Jason B. , Duffield Todd
Published: November 2022

Background

The objectives of this study were to explore the level of shared decision making (SDM) between veterinarians and dairy and beef producers during on‐farm interactions and to identify factors associated with veterinarians’ use of SDM behaviours.

Methods

A cross‐sectional sample of food‐animal veterinarians and their clients were recruited in Ontario, Canada. Their on‐farm interactions were audio–video recorded. The recordings were analysed using the ‘Observing Patient Involvement in Decision Making’ (observer OPTION5) instrument to determine the level of SDM utilised during preference‐sensitive decisions. A logistic regression model was developed to assess factors associated with a preference‐sensitive decision occurring. Meanwhile, a linear regression model was developed to identify factors associated with the level of SDM used.

Results

Forty‐one veterinarians participated, and 186 unique veterinarian–producer interactions were audio–video recorded and OPTION5score was calculated. SDM scores were low and comparable to other studies using the OPTION5instrument. The only factor associated with whether a preference‐sensitive decision occurred was the length of the veterinarian and producer's relationship (in years). As the length of their relationship increased, a preference‐sensitive decision was less likely to occur. The use of SDM behaviours was found to decrease as veterinarian burnout score increased. These findings demonstrate that SDM behaviours are being used by food‐animal veterinarians, yet an opportunity exists to further implement more producer‐centred SDM skills into on‐farm interactions.

Limitations

Small portions of veterinarian–producer conversation occurred outside of audio–video‐recorded interactions and were not included in the analysis.

Conclusion

The results of this study aid in further understanding on‐farm interactions between veterinarians and producers and can help to further improve veterinary communication curricula.
End‐of‐life decision‐making of dairy cattle and calves: A survey of British farmers and veterinary surgeons
Authors: Neary Joseph M. , Bedford Cherry , Smith Robert F.
Published: November 2022

Background

The study aim was to characterise issues faced by farmers and veterinary surgeons when making end‐of‐life decisions for dairy cattle.

Methods

Online surveys were distributed to British dairy farmers and veterinary surgeons for 20 weeks from November 2020.

Results

There were 83 responses (37 farmers, 46 veterinary surgeons). Among youngstock, the risk of unassisted/natural death (2.6% ± 0.3%) was almost double the risk of euthanasia (1.4% ± 0.3%; p = 0.003). The opposite, however, was true in the milking herd: the risk of euthanasia (2.3% ± 0.3%) was greater than unassisted/natural death (1.6% ± 0.2%; p = 0.05). A fallen stock collector (62%) typically performed euthanasia and most farms (66%) did not have anyone trained to perform euthanasia. Most deaths within the milking herd were attributed to ‘unknown or not recorded’ (median 15% of deaths). The factors that farmers most frequently reported as strongly influencing their decision of when to euthanase an animal relative to the onset of disease were ‘failure to respond to treatment’ (89%), ‘veterinary advice’ (89%) and ‘severity of disease’ (88%). On average, veterinarians had moderate or high confidence that 60% of dairy farm clients ‘are performing euthanasia in a timely manner so as to prevent unnecessary suffering’. Veterinary surgeons had variable agreement on the time to euthanasia for various conditions.

Conclusions

The survey highlighted end‐of life decision‐making successes and areas for improvement on dairy farms. An evidence‐based, decision‐support framework may help end‐of‐life decision‐making, particularly for complex diseases.
A new exponential model for predicting soil gas diffusivity with varying degree of saturation
Authors: Lakshani M. M. T. , Chamindu Deepagoda T. K. K. , Hamamoto Shoichiro , Elberling Bo , Fu Wei , Yang Ting , Fan Jun , Ma Xiaoyi , Clough Timothy , Smits Kathleen M. , Parameswaran T. G. , Sivakumar Babu G. L. , Chanakya H.
Published: November 2022

Soil gas diffusivity (Dp/Do, gas diffusion coefficients in soil and in free air, respectively) and its relation to soil moisture is of great importance for describing and quantifying essential provisional and regulatory functions associated with terrestrial ecosystems such as soil aeration and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Because gas migration in terrestrial soil systems is predominantly diffusion controlled, soil gas diffusivity becomes a fundamental prerequisite to quantify diffusive gas fluxes. Descriptive–predictive models are often used to estimate Dp/Do from easily measurable soil physical properties. Most of the available models take the form of power‐law functions and often tend to mischaracterize soil moisture effects at high moisture regimes. Based on a wide range Dp/Do data available in literature representing both intact and repacked soils, this study developed a novel air‐saturation‐dependent exponential (ASEX) gas diffusivity model to model Dp/Do in relation to soil air saturation. The model variable α, which represents the diffusivity at half air saturation normalized by the same in complete soil air saturation, could potentially differentiate moisture effects on different soil structural states. For specific applications in intact soils, we propose corresponding α values for upper‐limit (α = .6) and lower‐limit (α = .05) estimates of diffusivity, while an average value (α = .3) for general applications in both intact and repacked soils. As expected, our model based on a few a priori measured supportive data showed a better performance over the classical predictive models that do not use such measurements. The new model was further used to derive useful implications to showcase soil density effects on Dp/Do.
Electrochemical energy storage and conversion: An overview
Authors: Ragupathy Pitchai , Bhat Santoshkumar Dattatray , Kalaiselvi Nallathamby
Published: November 2022

Electrochemical energy storage and conversion devices are very unique and important for providing solutions to clean, smart, and green energy sectors particularly for stationary and automobile applications. They are broadly classified and overviewed with a special emphasis on rechargeable batteries (Li‐ion, Li‐oxygen, Li‐sulfur, Na‐ion, and redox flow batteries), electrocatalysts, and membrane electrolytes for fuel cells. The critical challenges for the development of sustainable energy storage systems are the intrinsically limited energy density, poor rate capability, cost, safety, and durability. Albeit huge advancements have been made to address these challenges, it is still long way to reach the energy demand, especially in the large‐scale storage and e‐mobility. A landscape of battery materials developments including the next generation battery technology is meticulously arrived, which enables to explore the alternate energy storage technology. Next generation energy storage systems such as Li‐oxygen, Li‐sulfur, and Na‐ion chemistries can be the potential option for outperforming the state‐of‐art Li‐ion batteries. Also, redox flow batteries, which are generally recognized as a possible alternative for large‐scale storage electricity, have the unique virtue of decoupling power and energy. In this overview, a systematic survey on the materials challenges and a comprehensive understanding of the structure–property–performance relationship of the storage and conversion devices is covered. Further, in‐depth detailing of various catalysts and membrane electrolytes that can be explored as a viable alternative for polymer electrolyte fuel cells as well as direction toward futuristic research areas is highlighted.

This article is categorized under:

Energy and Development > Science and Materials

Sustainable Energy > Bioenergy

Emerging Technologies > Energy Storage
Structural characteristics of mixed nido‐[Si9−xGex]4− (x=1, 2) Zintl clusters in solution and within solvent crystals
Authors: Jantke Laura‐Alice , Karttunen Antti J. , Fässler Thomas F.
Published: November 2022

Mixed Zintl‐type anionic clusters of silicon and germanium comprise an important class of potential materials in electronic applications. Herein, we present quantum chemical investigations to describe the mixing behavior of Si and Ge within [Si9−xGex]4− (x=0, 1, 2) Zintl anions that can be considered as precursors for novel Si−Ge materials. To understand the mixing behavior of such clusters in solution, we analyze the molecular clusters at using Density Functional Theory (DFT) and Coupled Cluster methods. Systematic assessment of relative energies of various structural isomers indicates that there is a preference to substitute Si with Ge in the open square of the monocapped square antiprismatic [Si8Ge]4− and [Si7Ge2]4− clusters. Population analysis reveals that the highest negative partial charge is also located at these positions. Investigation of Rb4Si9−xGex(NH3)5 solvent crystals using DFT methods and periodic boundary conditions further elucidates the behavior during crystallization. It is shown that in addition to the favored [Si8Ge]4− open‐square isomers arising in solution, the weak intermolecular interactions in the crystalline environment affect which structural isomers are observed in the crystal structure. The experimentally observed Ge site occupations could be explained by analysis of their energetics. This analysis contributes to the understanding of the mixing behavior of these important building blocks for material design.
Die Anwendung des Subsidiary Governance Modells in der Praxis
Authors: Renz Patrick , Böhrer Nikola , Peter Marc K.
Published: November 2022

Wie kann eine Führungskraft vom Subsidiary Governance Modell und diesem Handbuch profitieren? Eine Möglichkeit besteht darin, die eigene Qualität der Subsidiary Governance innerhalb dieser sechs Bereiche zu messen. Die Ausführungen über die Bestandteile des Subsidiary Governance Modells und Beispiele in Kap. 4 verleiten hoffentlich dazu, die eigenen Governance-Praktiken selbstkritisch zu reflektieren. Im letzten Teil des Buches stehen hierfür eine Checkliste und ein Praxisbeispiel bereit.
One-Loop effective action approach to quantum MHV theory
Authors: Kakkad Hiren , Kotko Piotr , Stasto Anna
Published: November 2022

Abstract

It is well known that the MHV action, i.e. the action containing all the maximally helicity violating vertices, is alone not sufficient for loop computations. In order to develop loop contributions systematically and to ensure that there are no missing terms, we propose to formulate the quantum MHV action via one-loop effective action approach. The quadratic field fluctuations in the light cone Yang-Mills theory are explicitly integrated, followed by the classical canonical field transformation. We test the approach by calculating one loop (++++) and (+++) amplitudes, i.e. amplitudes that cannot be calculated from ordinary MHV action. Such an approach can be further used to unambiguously define loop corrections in other theories related to Yang-Mills theory by field transformations.
The relation between surgical approaches for pelvic ring and acetabular fractures and postoperative complications: a systematic review
Authors: Timmer Robert A. , Mostert Cassidy Q. B. , Krijnen Pieta , Meylaerts Sven A. G. , Schipper Inger B.
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Although many articles report complications after pelvic ring and acetabular fracture surgery, a general overview of complication rates and potential risk factors is lacking. The current review provides a comprehensive summary of the complications after pelvic ring and acetabular fracture surgery in relation to the surgical approach.

Material and Methods

Pubmed and Embase databases were systematically searched using the key words: pelvic fracture, acetabular fracture, fixation, surgical approaches, complications, and their synonyms. Extracted data included patient and fracture characteristics, surgical approaches, and post-operative complications; surgical site infections (SSI), implant-related complications, malunion and non-union. Study data were summarized using descriptive statistics.

Results

Twenty-two studies (twenty-one retrospective cohort studies, of which three comparative, and one randomized controlled trial) were included in this review. The overall complication rates reported for the included surgical approaches were: 17% for the (Modified) Stoppa approach, 11% for percutaneous fixation, 5% for the Kocher–Langenbeck approach, 7% for the ilioinguinal approach and 31% for external fixation. The most frequent complications were SSI (22%) and neurological (31%) complications, which were most often reported in patients treated with an external fixator. Re-operation rates were comparable for the surgical approaches (4–8%). Two studies reported on risk factors and identified concomitant traumatic injuries, prolonged ICU stay and high body mass index as risk factors for SSI.

Conclusion

External fixation of pelvic fractures is associated with highest complications rates including SSI’s and neurological complications. Although post-operative complications are frequently reported after pelvic fracture surgery, more studies are needed that identify potential risk factors. These will assist the surgeon in (pre)operative decision making and development of preventive strategies.
Peripartale Blutungen, Diagnostik und Therapie
Authors: Annecke T. , Lier H. , Girard T. , Korte W. , Pfanner G. , Schlembach D. , Tiebel O. , von Heymann C.
Published: November 2022

Anhand einer fiktiven Kasuistik wird die aktuelle Leitlinie „Peripartale Blutungen, Diagnostik und Therapie“ mit einem Schwerpunkt auf die anästhesiologische Sicht zusammengefasst. Die aktualisierte Leitlinie wurde unter Federführung der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe und Beteiligung weiterer Fachgesellschaften und Interessenvertretungen aus Deutschland, Österreich und der Schweiz erarbeitet und bei der AWMF unter der Registriernummer 015/063 publiziert.
Atomic force and infrared spectroscopic studies on the role of surface charge for the anti-biofouling properties of polydopamine films
Authors: Caniglia Giada , Teuber Andrea , Barth Holger , Mizaikoff Boris , Kranz Christine
Published: November 2022

Antibacterial polymer materials have gained interest due to their capability to inhibit or eradicate biofilms with greater efficiency in comparison with their monomeric counterparts. Among the antimicrobial and anti-biofouling polymers, catecholamine-based polymers — and in particular polydopamine — have been studied due to their favorable adhesion properties, which can be tuned by controlling the pH value. In this study, we used atomic force microscopy (AFM)–based spectroscopy to investigate the relation between the adhesion properties and surface charge density and the pH of electrochemically deposited polydopamine films presenting a dissociation constant of polydopamine of 6.3 ± 0.2 and a point of zero charge of 5.37 ± 0.06. Furthermore, using AFM and attenuated total reflection-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), the influence of the surface charge density of polydopamine on bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation was investigated. It was shown that the adhesion of Escherichia coli at positively charged polydopamine is three times higher compared to a negatively charged polymer, and that the formation of biofilms is favored at positively charged polymers.

Graphical abstract
Tunnelausbruchverwertung am FCC – Future Circular Collider in CERN
Authors: Hauzinger Elisabeth , Galler Robert
Published: November 2022

Der 2030 beginnende Bau des neuen 100 km langen Teilchenbeschleunigers „Future Circular Collider (FCC)“ des CERN (Conseil Européen pour la Recherche Nucléaire) in der Schweiz sowie Frankreich wirft neue Fragen im Bereich der Tunnelausbruchverwertung auf. Die rund 9 Mio. m3 des anfallenden Materials werden beinahe ausschließlich aus Molasse des Genfer Beckens bestehen, deren große Varietät bezüglich Zusammensetzung und Korngröße eine Herausforderung hinsichtlich der Wiederverwendung darstellt. Um eine vollständige Deponierung des Materials und die damit verbundenen Deponiekosten sowie negative Umwelteinflüsse zu vermeiden, wurde der internationale Wettbewerb „Mining the Future“ ins Leben gerufen, bei welchem Ideen für mögliche Arten der Wiederverwendung von Molasse eingereicht werden konnten. Damit sollte eine möglichst hochwertige Verwendung des Materials sichergestellt und zugleich eine neue Wertschöpfungskette im Sinne der Circular Economy geschaffen werden.
Re-invigorating the photo album: augmenting printed photobooks with digital media
Authors: Corrigan-Kavanagh Emily , Frohlich David M. , Scarles Caroline
Published: November 2022

The photo album emerged in the late 1800s as place to collect portrait photos of visitors to a home, and was later appropriated by Kodak as a visual chronology of family history. With digital photography, the album has largely been replaced by online repositories of images shared on social media, and the selective printing of photobooks. In this paper, we present a ‘next-generation paper’ authoring system for annotating photobooks with multimedia content viewed on a nearby smartphone. We also report the results of a trial of this system, by nine travellers who used it to make augmented photobooks following a trip. These findings show that the augmented physical-and-digital photobook can heighten awareness of the multisensory aspects of travel, enrich memories, and enhance social interaction around photos. The social and technical implications for the future of the photo album are discussed.