bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nest site fidelity and nesting success of female wild turkeys
Authors: Byrne Michael E. , Cohen Bradley S. , Collier Bret A. , Chamberlain Michael J.
Published: May 2022

Nest site fidelity is a common behavioral trait among birds that can positively influence reproductive success when there is spatial heterogeneity and temporal predictability in nest site quality. Nest site fidelity in wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) has received little attention in the literature despite providing a potential link to nesting success. We used data from 32 female wild turkeys across 8 field sites ranging from South Carolina to Texas with 2 consecutive years of nest data to determine if females showed fidelity to nest sites, if distance between nest locations in consecutive years predicted nest success in the second year, and if females showed fidelity to specific areas within home ranges (patches) for nesting. Females tended to nest closer to previously successful nests (median distance = 920 m) than to unsuccessful nests (median distance = 1550 m) in the second year; however, we documented no evidence of fidelity to specific nest sites. There was widespread reuse of prelaying (89.5%) and laying (77.8%) ranges by females between years, indicating some evidence for patch fidelity. The lack of evidence for nest site fidelity may be a result of the temporally dynamic nature of turkey nesting cover and ubiquity of predation risk across the southeastern U.S, which ecological theory predicts would not provide the reproductive benefits of fidelity that hinge on predictability. Fidelity to patches within home ranges may represent an always‐stay approach, which is expected when the cost of dispersing to new breeding areas outweighs potential benefits and may allow females to draw on prior knowledge of areas within their home ranges. Although distance between nests was not a significant predictor of nest success, females that nested successfully in the first year had a probability of 0.63 of successfully nesting in the second year, whereas unsuccessful females had probability of success of 0.08 in the second year. The tracking of individual nesting success across years warrants further research, as our results imply that a disproportionate percentage of reproduction through time may be attributed to a subset of females that are consistently successful, which may have implications for our understanding of reproductive dynamics in low productivity populations.
Breeding season survival of female Rio Grande wild turkeys in south‐central Texas
Authors: White Jacob H. , Moscicki David J. , Jobes Doug , Hardin Jason B. , Chamberlain Michael J. , Collier Bret A.
Published: May 2022

Historically, Rio Grande wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo intermedia) density in south‐central Texas has been lower than other regions within the species' Texas range. Within the Oak‐Prairie Wildlife District of Texas, Rio Grande wild turkey harvest regulations are more restrictive for counties in the eastern portion of the district. Due to a perceived increase in turkey density in the eastern portion of the district, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) has considered increasing the spring hunting season harvest bag limit. Because estimates of sex‐specific abundance and male harvest rates are not available, estimates of female driven population parameters such and nest success and female survival can be used to support regulatory decision‐making. Therefore, before a regulation change we evaluated survival of radio‐marked female Rio Grande wild turkeys during the breeding season in 4 counties in the Special 1‐Male zone (hereafter 1‐bird zone) and 2 counties in the South zone (hereafter 4‐bird zone). We captured and monitored breeding season survival for 138 females during 2016–2018, of which 51 were in the 4‐bird zone and 87 were in the 1‐bird zone. Breeding season (1 Mar–14 Aug) naive mortality rate was 23% (19/81) of tagged females in the 1‐bird zone and 32% (14/43) in the 4‐bird zone. The best approximating candidate model for breeding season survival indicated variation in daily survival () was primarily related to daily distance of individual movements ( = 0.998 at average daily distance of 2,471 m). Estimated breeding season survival at the mean daily movement distance was 81% for the 167‐day period. Breeding season survival was similar between the 1‐bird and 4‐bird regulatory zone. Based on our results, female breeding season survival does not seem to be a limiting factor within the Oak‐Prairie Wildlife District of Texas for Rio Grande wild turkeys. We suggest that TPWD focus efforts on supporting landowners to enhance conditions more conducive for reproductive success and suggest future efforts focus on collection of harvest and harvest rate data to estimate population size in lieu of continued monitoring of female reproductive or survival parameters for decision processes.
Child Health in Southeast Asia
Authors: Yeung Wei-Jun Jean
Published: May 2022

In the past three decades, the Southeast Asian countries have made efforts in improving child health and have seen great progress in protecting people from diseases via vaccination. It is attributable to the concerted effort by nations and global organizations, such as the WHO guidelines on nutrition for the management of severe malnutrition and overnutrition, and the National Immunization Programme (NIP) to prevent a range of diseases.
Water-Filtered Infrared A Irradiation in Clinical Dermatology
Authors: Jauker P. , Wolf P. , Tanew A.
Published: May 2022

So far, wIRA has primarily been used in the following dermatological conditions: wound healing, sclerosing skin diseases and common cutaneous warts. Accelerated healing of both acute (e.g., after surgery) and chronic (e.g., venous ulcers) wounds has been described in case reports, small case series and a randomized controlled trial. wIRA not only reduced pain and inflammation but also influenced wound secretion. It has also been shown to protect against infection and promote the formation of granulation tissue and wound re-epithelialisation. The therapeutic efficacy of wIRA in localized scleroderma and sclerotic cutaneous graft-versus-host disease is currently under investigation in a prospective Austrian two-center study. Previous reports on sclerosing skin disorders have indicated that wIRA might arrest disease activity, reduce skin sclerosis and improve joint motility. Finally, anecdotal evidence in immune-compromised twins and a randomized controlled trial on 80 patients have shown that wIRA might induce erradication of treatment-resistant common warts.

wIRA appears to be a promising treatment approach for some challenging dermatological skin disorders. The treatment is easy to perform and devoid of any serious acute and chronic side effects. wIRA is well-accepted, since it generates a pleasant sensation in the skin.
Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms of Water-Filtered IR
Authors: Hamblin Michael R.
Published: May 2022

Water-filtered infrared A (wIRA) has been used to produce tissue hyperthermia to treat cancer, but also to treat a variety of other conditions, such as wound healing, pain, and inflammation. While the mechanism of anti-cancer hyperthermia is well-established, the mechanism of wIRA to promote healing and pain reduction is less clear. In this chapter, I will cover the use of photobiomodulation to treat several conditions characterized by mitochondrial dysfunction. Next the role of heat-sensitive transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels is discussed, with regard to nitric oxide production and infrared neural stimulation. Then the use of infrared emitting bioceramic nanoparticles embedded in garments or patches, which are powered solely by body heat to promote healing and reduce pain and inflammation is discussed. The conclusion is that wIRA can activate heat-sensitive TRP channels, possibly mediated by energy absorption by nanostructured water clusters, leading to many of the observed therapeutic benefits.
Gold Nanoparticles and Infrared Heating: Use of wIRA Irradiation
Authors: Hainfeld J. F. , Smilowitz H. M.
Published: May 2022

wIRA-transparent small gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were shown to be shifted to wIRA absorbing when targeted to receptors on tumor cells and aggregated in the tumor cell by enzyme degradation and pH effects. In this way, AuNPs loaded into mouse-grown subcutaneous tumors after both direct intratumoral and intravenous injections cured tumors after either wIRA treatment ablation or wIRA treatment combined with X-ray irradiation. Some GNP constructs, e.g., nanoshells and nanorods, have already progressed to veterinary and human clinical trials. If AuNP/NIR therapy is proven to be useful to treat an appropriately superficial human tumor, the use of the wIRA radiator might make such therapy accessible to large numbers of patients in low- and middle-income countries that lack access to very high-tech expensive therapies.
Stand der Technik
Authors: Wild Jochen
Published: May 2022

Wie Kapitel 1.1 entnommen werden kann, ist die geometrische Optimierung evolventisch basierter Zahnwellenverbindungen für das Kriterium der Gestaltfestigkeit das mit dieser Dissertation übergeordnet zu lösende Problem. Zu optimieren sind jedoch explizit nicht die dem Stand der Technik entsprechenden Verbindungen nach [DIN 5480]. Kann mit ihnen doch mitnichten das volle Gestaltfestigkeitspotenzial evolventisch basierter Zahnwellenverbindungen genutzt werden. Hier leistet das in Kapitel 3.2 entwickelte und in Kapitel 3.3 zur einfachen Anwendung dargelegte System zur Profilgenerierung Abhilfe. Es sind die diesem System entstammenden Verbindungen, deren Optimierung Ziel des vorliegenden Werkes ist.
Geometriebezogene Definitionen, Entwicklungen und Betrachtungen
Authors: Wild Jochen
Published: May 2022

Gegenstand der geometriebezogen getroffenen Definitionen, realisierten Entwicklungen und durchgeführten Betrachtungen ist zunächst die kritische Analyse sowohl der Systematik als auch des Systems zur Bezugsprofilgenerierung evolventisch basierter Zahnwellenverbindungen der [DIN 5480]. Im Rahmen dieser werden funktionale Probleme und geometrische Restriktionen aufgezeigt. Möglichkeiten zur mathematischen Vereinfachung werden ausgearbeitet. Wie unter anderem in Kapitel 1.2 dargelegt, sind allerdings die ebenfalls dort formulierten Zielsetzungen dieser Dissertation nicht mit dem System zur Bezugsprofilgenerierung evolventisch basierter Zahnwellenverbindungen der [DIN 5480] realisierbar.
Optimierung der Grundform
Authors: Wild Jochen
Published: May 2022

Wesentlicher Bestandteil dieser Dissertation ist die Optimierung evolventisch basierter Zahnwellenverbindungen nach Kapitel 3.3 mit quasi endlos verzahnter Welle für das Kriterium der Gestaltfestigkeit, wobei Nabenbreite $$b$$
b
sowie Nabenrestwandstärke so gewählt sind, dass sie ihrem jeweils asymptotischen Einflussbereich entstammen, vgl. Kapitel 2.5.1. Derartige Verbindungen werden in diesem Werk als Grundform evolventisch basierter Zahnwellenverbindungen bezeichnet. Ihre exakte Definition ist essenziell und demnach Gegenstand von Kapitel 6.1.
Boundary conditions for warped AdS3 in quadratic ensemble
Authors: Aggarwal Ankit , Ciambelli Luca , Detournay Stéphane , Somerhausen Antoine
Published: May 2022

Abstract

In the context of warped conformal field theories (WCFT), the derivation of the warped Cardy formula relies on the zero mode spectrum being bounded from below. Generically, this is not true for holographic WCFTs in “canonical” ensemble, whereas this condition is satisfied in the “quadratic” ensemble, making it more natural in holographic setups. In this work, we find a new set of boundary conditions in three-dimensional Topologically Massive Gravity (TMG) such that the putative dual theory is a WCFT in quadratic ensemble. Surprisingly, imposing the equations of motion, we obtain a closed form metric spanned by two arbitrary chiral functions, analogous to the Bañados metrics in Einstein gravity. Surface charges for these boundary conditions are not a priori integrable and we discuss two choices of boundary conditions to make them so. We obtain the bulk thermodynamic entropy of warped BTZ black holes by making use of the warped Cardy formula, in its regime of validity. We also discuss the issue of identifying the vacuum in our solution space: demanding the enhancement of global symmetries selects only a family of solutions, out of which the unique vacuum must be carefully singled out.
Pole inflation from non-minimal coupling to gravity
Authors: Karamitsos Sotirios , Strumia Alessandro
Published: May 2022

Abstract

Transforming canonical scalars to the Einstein frame can give a multi-field generalization of pole inflation (namely, a scalar with a divergent kinetic term) at vanishing field-dependent Planck mass. However, to obtain an attractor, the scalar potential must obey certain non-generic conditions. These are automatically satisfied in Quantum Field Theories with dimension-less couplings. The resulting models of pole inflation have special inflationary predictions determined by the full RG running of couplings. Acceptable predictions for the tensor/scalar ratio arise for perturbative but moderately large couplings, so we explore the possible QFT runnings: to confinement, to an IR fixed point, and to a UV fixed point.
On-shell correlators and color-kinematics duality in curved symmetric spacetimes
Authors: Cheung Clifford , Parra-Martinez Julio , Sivaramakrishnan Allic
Published: May 2022

Abstract

We define a perturbatively calculable quantity — the on-shell correlator — which furnishes a unified description of particle dynamics in curved spacetime. Specializing to the case of flat and anti-de Sitter space, on-shell correlators coincide precisely with on-shell scattering amplitudes and boundary correlators, respectively. Remarkably, we find that symmetric manifolds admit a generalization of on-shell kinematics in which the corresponding momenta are literally the isometry generators of the spacetime acting on the external kinematic data. These isometric momenta are intrinsically non-commutative but exhibit on-shell conditions that are identical to those of flat space, thus providing a common language for computing and representing on-shell correlators which is agnostic about the underlying geometry. Afterwards, we compute tree-level on-shell correlators for biadjoint scalar (BAS) theory and the nonlinear sigma model (NLSM) and learn that color-kinematics duality is manifested at the level of fields under a mapping of the color algebra to the algebra of gauged isometries on the spacetime manifold. Last but not least, we present a field theoretic derivation of the fundamental BCJ relations for on-shell correlators following from the existence of certain conserved currents in BAS theory and the NLSM.
Existence and uniqueness result for a fluid–structure–interaction evolution problem in an unbounded 2D channel
Authors: Patriarca Clara
Published: May 2022

In an unbounded 2D channel, we consider the vertical displacement of a rectangular obstacle in a regime of small flux for the incoming flow field, modelling the interaction between the cross-section of the deck of a suspension bridge and the wind. We prove an existence and uniqueness result for a fluid–structure-interaction evolution problem set in this channel, where at infinity the velocity field of the fluid has aPoiseuille flowprofile. We introduce a suitable definition of weak solutions and we make use of a penalty method. In order to prevent the obstacle from going excessively far from the equilibrium position and colliding with the boundary of the channel, we introduce astrong forcein the differential equation governing the motion of the rigid body and we find a unique global-in-time solution.
We have to talk about emotional AI and crime
Authors: Podoletz Lena
Published: May 2022

Emotional AI is an emerging technology used to make probabilistic predictions about the emotional states of people using data sources, such as facial (micro)-movements, body language, vocal tone or the choice of words. The performance of such systems is heavily debated and so are the underlying scientific methods that serve as the basis for many such technologies. In this article I will engage with this new technology, and with the debates and literature that surround it. Working at the intersection of criminology, policing, surveillance and the study of emotional AI this paper explores and offers a framework of understanding the various issues that these technologies present particularly to liberal democracies. I argue that these technologies should not be deployed within public spaces because there is only a very weak evidence-base as to their effectiveness in a policing and security context, and even more importantly represent a major intrusion to people’s private lives and also represent a worrying extension of policing power because of the possibility that intentions and attitudes may be inferred. Further to this, the danger in the use of such invasive surveillance for the purpose of policing and crime prevention in urban spaces is that it potentially leads to a highly regulated and control-oriented society. I argue that emotion recognition has severe impacts on the right to the city by not only undertaking surveillance of existing situations but also making inferences and probabilistic predictions about future events as well as emotions and intentions.
Investing in AI for social good: an analysis of European national strategies
Authors: Foffano Francesca , Scantamburlo Teresa , Cortés Atia
Published: May 2022

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a driving force in modern research, industry and public administration and the European Union (EU) is embracing this technology with a view to creating societal, as well as economic, value. This effort has been shared by EU Member States which were all encouraged to develop their own national AI strategies outlining policies and investment levels. This study focuses on how EU Member States are approaching the promise to develop and use AI for the good of society through the lens of their national AI strategies. In particular, we aim to investigate how European countries are investing in AI and to what extent the stated plans contribute to the good of people and society as a whole. Our contribution consists of three parts: (i) a conceptualization of AI for social good highlighting the role of AI policy, in particular, the one put forward by the European Commission (EC); (ii) a qualitative analysis of 15 European national strategies mapping investment plans and suggesting their relation to the social good (iii) a reflection on the current status of investments in socially good AI and possible steps to move forward. Our study suggests that while European national strategies incorporate money allocations in the sphere of AI for social good (e.g. education), there is a broader variety of underestimated actions (e.g. multidisciplinary approach in STEM curricula and dialogue among stakeholders) that can boost the European commitment to sustainable and responsible AI innovation.
Mechanical properties and degradation of laser sintered structures of PLA microspheres obtained by dual beam laser sintering method
Authors: Kryszak Bartłomiej , Gazińska Małgorzata , Gruber Piotr , Wieczorek Mateusz , Krokos Anna , Dzienny Paulina , Szymczyk-Ziółkowska Patrycja , Olejarczyk Michał , Antończak Arkadiusz J.
Published: May 2022

This paper discusses the influence of process parameters on the degradation and the mechanical properties of laser-sintered polylactide (PLA) microspheres obtained using the novel dual beam laser sintering method (DBLS). DBLS is a technique developed by our team that is a modification of standard polymer laser sintering (pLS), with the potential to reduce polymer degradation during the process. The PLA microspheres were produced using the standard emulsion-solvent evaporation method. The laser sintering process was carried out in a wide range of process parameters to obtain samples with various degrees of sintering. Next a number of tests were conducted to assess the physicochemical properties of these samples, including visualization techniques (SEM, digital microscopy and photography), gel permeation chromatogrphy (GPC), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA) and static compression tests. The work shows that for different sets of process parameters, it is possible to obtain a product with similar mechanical properties, but at the same time with a completely different degree of polymer degradation. Hence, the hypothesis that when assessing the sinter quality one should take into account not only the mechanical properties of the detail, but also the degree of polymer degradation, which is of great importance, for example, in biomedical applications. It has also been shown that the DBLS method has a potential to reduce the degree of degradation of the sintered polymers and the post-process material outside the sintering zone.
Diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound for localising peripherally inserted central catheter tips in infants in the neonatal intensive care unit: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Doyle Shauna C. , Bergin Niamh M. , Young Rena , England Andrew , McEntee Mark F.
Published: May 2022

Background

Chest radiography after peripherally inserted central catheter insertion in infants is the reference standard method for verifying catheter tip position. The utilisation of ultrasound (US) for catheter placement confirmation in the neonatal and paediatric population has been the focus of many recent studies.

Objective

In this systematic review we investigated the diagnostic accuracy of US for peripherally inserted central catheter tip confirmation in infants in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU)

Materials and methods

We conducted a systematic literature search of multiple databases. The study selection yielded eight articles, all of which had acceptable quality and homogeneity for inclusion in the meta-analysis. Sensitivity and specificity values were reported together with their respective 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

After synthesising the eligible studies, we found that US had a sensitivity of 95.2% (95% CI 91.9–97.4%) and specificity of 71.4% (95% CI 59.4–81.6%) for confirming catheter tip position.

Conclusion

Analyses indicated that US is an excellent imaging test for localising catheter tip position in the NICU when compared to radiography. Ultrasonography is a sensitive, specific and timely imaging modality for confirming PICC tip position. In cases where US is unable to locate malpositioned PICC tips, a chest or combined chest–abdominal radiograph should be performed.
Chronic pain in osteoarthritis of the hip is associated with selective cognitive impairment
Authors: Kazim Murteza Ali , Strahl André , Moritz Steffen , Arlt Sönke , Niemeier Andreas
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Chronic pain of various origin is known to be associated with selective cognitive impairment. Osteoarthritis (OA) of the hip is one of the leading causes of chronic pain in the adult population, but its association with cognitive performance has not been evaluated. Here, we investigate the effect of chronic pain due to unilateral OA of one hip and no further source of chronic pain on cognitive performance.

Materials and methods

A neuropsychological test battery, consisting of the Mini-Mental State Examination, Rey–Osterrieth complex figure test, Rivermead behavioural memory test, d2 test of attention, and F-A-S test was applied in 148 patients and 82 healthy pain-free control individuals. The influence of potentially confounding factors such as depression and anxiety was examined.

Results

Patients with OA of the hip showed decreased performance in specific neuropsychological tests. Performance in verbal and visual short-term and long-term memory and selective attention tests was significantly poorer compared to healthy controls. Whereas the executive functions “updating”, “set shifting”, “response inhibition” and “reflection” appear intact, “problem solving” and “planning” were impaired. None of the confounders showed any influence on cognitive performance in both study groups.

Conclusion

We conclude that chronic pain secondary to end-stage hip OA is associated with selective cognitive impairment. Future studies are required to investigate the effect of total hip arthroplasty on cognitive performance.
Posterior stabilization with polyetheretherketone (PEEK) rods and transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) with titanium rods for single-level lumbar spine degenerative disease in patients above 70 years of age
Authors: Kamenova M. , Li E. , Soleman J. , Fiebig O. , Mehrkens A. , Schaeren S.
Published: May 2022

Background

Given the lack of guidelines regarding the operative management of elderly patients needing lumbar spine fusion for degenerative disease, it is often difficult to balance between invasiveness respecting the fragile spine and geriatric comorbidities.

Aim

To compare reoperation rates and clinical outcome in patients above 70 years of age undergoing Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) with titanium rods or posterior stabilization with Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) rods for the treatment of one-level lumbar spine degenerative disease.

Methods

Retrospective review of baseline characteristics, reoperation rates as well as the clinical and radiological outcomes of patients, older than 70 years, undergoing posterolateral fusion with PEEK rods (n = 76, PEEK group) or TLIF with titanium rods (n = 67, TLIF group) for a single-level lumbar degenerative disease from 2014 to 2020. Additional subanalysis on the patients above 80 years of age was performed.

Results

Our results showed similar reoperation rates and outcomes in the TLIF and PEEK groups. However, intraoperative blood loss, administration of tranexamic acid, and operation time were significantly higher in the TLIF group. In patients older than 80 years, reoperation rates at first follow-up were significantly higher in the TLIF group, too.

Conclusion

According to our results, posterior stabilization with PEEK rods is less invasive and was associated with significantly lower blood loss, administration of blood products and shorter operation time. Moreover, in patients above 80 years of age reoperations rates were lower with PEEK rods, as well. Nevertheless, the benefits of PEEK rods for foraminal stenosis still have to be investigated.
Travelling helices and the vortex filament conjecture in the incompressible Euler equations
Authors: Dávila Juan , Pino Manuel del , Musso Monica , Wei Juncheng
Published: May 2022

We consider the Euler equations in$$\mathbb R^3$$R3expressed in vorticity form$$\begin{aligned} \left\{ \begin{array}{l} \vec \omega _t + (\mathbf{u}\cdot {\nabla } ){\vec \omega } =( \vec \omega \cdot {\nabla } ) \mathbf{u} \\ \mathbf{u} = \mathrm{curl}\vec \psi ,\ -\Delta \vec \psi = \vec \omega . \end{array}\right. \end{aligned}$$ω→t+(u·∇)ω→=(ω→·∇)uu=curlψ→,-Δψ→=ω→.A classical question that goes back to Helmholtz is to describe the evolution of solutions with a high concentration around a curve. The work of Da Rios in 1906 states that such a curve must evolve by the so-called binormal curvature flow. Existence of true solutions concentrated near a given curve that evolves by this law is a long-standing open question that has only been answered for the special case of a circle travelling with constant speed along its axis, the thin vortex-rings. We provide what appears to be the first rigorous construction ofhelical filaments, associated to a translating-rotating helix. The solution is defined at all times and does not change form with time. The result generalizes to multiple polygonal helical filaments travelling and rotating together.
Hospitalisation for degenerative cervical myelopathy in England: insights from the National Health Service Hospital Episode Statistics 2012 to 2019
Authors: Goacher Edward , Phillips Richard , Mowforth Oliver D. , Yordanov Stefan , Pereira Erlick A. C. , Gardner Adrian , Quraishi Nasir A. , Bateman Antony H. , Demetriades Andreas K. , Ivanov Marcel , Budu Alexandru , Dyson Edward , Wynne-Jones Guy , Davies Benjamin M. , Kotter Mark R. N. ,   NIHR POLYFIX-DCM Consortia
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) is the most common cause of adult spinal cord dysfunction worldwide. However, the current incidence of DCM is poorly understood. The Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) database contains details of all secondary care admissions across NHS hospitals in England. This study aimed to use HES data to characterise surgical activity for DCM in England.

Methods

The HES database was interrogated for all cases of DCM between 2012 and 2019. DCM cases were identified from 5 ICD-10 codes. Age-stratified values were collected for ‘Finished Consultant Episodes’ (FCEs), which correspond to a patient’s hospital admission under a lead clinician. Data was analysed to explore current annual activity and longitudinal change.

Results

34,903 FCEs with one or more of the five ICD-10 codes were identified, of which 18,733 (53.6%) were of working age (18–64 years). Mean incidence of DCM was 7.44 per 100,000 (SD ± 0.32). Overall incidence of DCM rose from 6.94 per 100,000 in 2012–2013 to 7.54 per 100,000 in 2018–2019. The highest incidence was seen in 2016–2017 (7.94 per 100,000). The median male number of FCEs per year (2919, IQR: 228) was consistently higher than the median female number of FCEs per year (2216, IQR: 326). The rates of both emergency admissions and planned admissions are rising.

Conclusions

The incidence of hospitalisation for DCM in England is rising. Health care policymakers and providers must recognise the increasing burden of DCM and act to address both early diagnoses and access to treatment in future service provision plans.
Individual differences in co-representation in three monkey species (Callithrix jacchus, Sapajus apella and Macaca tonkeana) in the joint Simon task: the role of social factors and inhibitory control
Authors: Miss Fabia M. , Sadoughi Baptiste , Meunier Hélène , Burkart Judith M.
Published: May 2022

Behavioral coordination is involved in many forms of primate interactions. Co-representation is the simultaneous mental representation of one’s own and the partner’s task and actions. It often underlies behavioral coordination and cooperation success. In humans, the dyadic social context can modulate co-representation. Here, we first investigated whether individual differences in co-representation in the joint Simon task in capuchin monkeys and Tonkean macaques can be explained by social factors, namely dyadic grooming and sociality index, rank difference and eigenvector centrality. These factors did not predict variation in co-representation. However, in this specific task, co-representation reduces rather than facilitates joint performance. Automatic co-representation therefore needs to be inhibited or suppressed to maximize cooperation success. We therefore also investigated whether general inhibitory control (detour-reaching) would predict co-representation in the joint Simon task in Tonkean macaques, brown capuchin and marmoset monkeys. Inhibitory control did neither explain individual differences nor species differences, since marmosets were most successful in their joint performance despite scoring lowest on inhibitory control. These results suggest that the animals’ ability to resolve conflicts between self and other representation to increase cooperation success in this task is gradually learned due to frequent exposure during shared infant care, rather than determined by strong general inhibitory control. Further, we conclude that the joint Simon task, while useful to detect co-representation non-invasively, is less suitable for identifying the factors explaining individual differences and thus a more fruitful approach to identify these factors is to design tasks in which co-representation favors, rather than hinders cooperation success.
Healthcare costs of diabetic foot disease in Italy: estimates for event and state costs
Authors: Seghieri Chiara , Ferrè Francesca , Foresi Elisa , Borghini Alice
Published: May 2022

Objective

This study aimed to estimate healthcare costs of diabetic foot disease (DFD) in a large population-based cohort of people with type-2 diabetes (T2D) in the Tuscany region (Italy).

Data sources/study setting

Administrative healthcare data of Tuscany region, with 2018 as the base year.

Study design

Retrospective study assessing a longitudinal cohort of patients with T2D.

Data collection/extraction methods

Using administrative healthcare data, DFD were identified using the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification codes.

Methods

We examined the annual healthcare costs of these clinical problems in patients with T2D between 2015 and 2018; moreover, we used a generalized linear model to estimate the total healthcare costs.

Principal findings

Between 2015 and 2018, patients with T2D experiencing DFD showed significantly higher average direct costs than patients with T2D without DFD (p < 0.0001). Among patients with T2D experiencing DFD, those who experienced complications either in 2015–2017 and in 2018 incurred the highest incremental costs (incremental cost of € 16,702) followed by those with complications in 2018 only (incremental cost of € 9,536) and from 2015 to 2017 (incremental cost of € 800).

Conclusions

DFD significantly increase healthcare utilization and costs among patients with TD2. Healthcare costs of DFD among patients with T2D are associated with the timing and frequency of DFD. These findings should increase awareness among policymakers regarding resource reallocation toward preventive strategies among patients with T2D.
A multiparametric advection-diffusion reduced-order model for molecular transport in scaffolds for osteoinduction
Authors: Muixí Alba , Zlotnik Sergio , Calvet Pere , Espanol Montserrat , Lodoso-Torrecilla Irene , Ginebra Maria-Pau , Díez Pedro , García-González Alberto
Published: May 2022

Scaffolds are microporous biocompatible structures that serve as material support for cells to proliferate, differentiate and form functional tissue. In particular, in the field of bone regeneration, insertion of scaffolds in a proper physiological environment is known to favour bone formation by releasing calcium ions, among others, triggering differentiation of mesenchymal cells into osteoblasts. Computational simulation of molecular distributions through scaffolds is a potential tool to study the scaffolds’ performance or optimal designs, to analyse their impact on cell differentiation, and also to move towards reduction in animal experimentation. Unfortunately, the required numerical models are often highly complex and computationally too costly to develop parametric studies. In this context, we propose a computational parametric reduced-order model to obtain the distribution of calcium ions in the interstitial fluid flowing through scaffolds, depending on several physical parameters. We use the well-known Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD) with two different variations: local POD and POD with quadratic approximations. Computations are performed using two realistic geometries based on a foamed and a 3D-printed scaffolds. The location of regions with high concentration of calcium in the numerical simulations is in fair agreement with regions of bone formation shown in experimental observations reported in the literature. Besides, reduced-order solutions accurately approximate the reference finite element solutions, with a significant decrease in the number of degrees of freedom, thus avoiding computationally expensive simulations, especially when performing a parametric analysis. The proposed reduced-order model is a competitive tool to assist the design of scaffolds in osteoinduction research.
Fully-Automatic 3D Intuitive Visualization of Age-Related Macular Degeneration Fluid Accumulations in OCT Cubes
Authors: López-Varela Emilio , Vidal Plácido L. , Pascual Nuria Olivier , Novo Jorge , Ortega Marcos
Published: May 2022

Age-related macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss in developed countries, and wet-type AMD requires urgent treatment and rapid diagnosis because it causes rapid irreversible vision loss. Currently, AMD diagnosis is mainly carried out using images obtained by optical coherence tomography. This diagnostic process is performed by human clinicians, so human error may occur in some cases. Therefore, fully automatic methodologies are highly desirable adding a layer of robustness to the diagnosis. In this work, a novel computer-aided diagnosis and visualization methodology is proposed for the rapid identification and visualization of wet AMD. We adapted a convolutional neural network for segmentation of a similar domain of medical images to the problem of wet AMD segmentation, taking advantage of transfer learning, which allows us to work with and exploit a reduced number of samples. We generate a 3D intuitive visualization where the existence, position and severity of the fluid were represented in a clear and intuitive way to facilitate the analysis of the clinicians. The 3D visualization is robust and accurate, obtaining satisfactory 0.949 and 0.960 Dice coefficients in the different evaluated OCT cube configurations, allowing to quickly assess the presence and extension of the fluid associated to wet AMD.
Identifying typical and early warning species by the combination of functional-based diagnostic species and dark diversity
Authors: Dalle Fratte Michele , Caccianiga Marco , Ricotta Carlo , Cerabolini Bruno E. L.
Published: May 2022

The European Union Habitats Directive requires the identification of typical species that reflect the structure and functions of habitat types, as well as early changes in the habitat condition, but no common methods are available for their selection. Diagnostic species with high fidelity to a specific group of plots are identified by traditional methods, but their value as typical species is still debated. We designed a protocol for the identification of typical plant species based on a recently proposed method to detect diagnostic species by combining abundances and functional traits. We tested the method on a set of alpine habitat subtypes, comparing diagnostic species based on traits or Grime’s CSR strategies (competitive, stress-tolerant, ruderal) with those based on presence/absence or abundance only, and then we calculated for each species the dark diversity probability—i.e. probability of being absent from a habitat type with suitable ecological conditions. Functional-based methods allowed to recognize larger sets of exclusive species, adding dominant species linked to the structure and functions of habitat subtypes (i.e. to the functional centroid). Dark diversity probability was equally distributed between diagnostic and non-diagnostic species identified by functional-based methods. Species with higher dark diversity probability among those associated with the functional centroid can be considered as early warning indicators of changes in habitat conditions. The protocol proposed here enables species ranking on measurable variables (functional association, dark diversity probability) and can be applied as a standardized tool for the identification of typical plant species for habitat types dominated by plants.
ISCEV Standard for full-field clinical electroretinography (2022 update)
Authors: Robson Anthony G. , Frishman Laura J. , Grigg John , Hamilton Ruth , Jeffrey Brett G. , Kondo Mineo , Li Shiying , McCulloch Daphne L.
Published: May 2022

The full-field electroretinogram (ERG) is a mass electrophysiological response to diffuse flashes of light and is used widely to assess generalized retinal function. This document, from the International Society for Clinical Electrophysiology of Vision (ISCEV), presents an updated and revised ISCEV Standard for clinical ERG testing. Minimum protocols for basic ERG stimuli, recording methods and reporting are specified, to promote consistency of methods for diagnosis, monitoring and inter-laboratory comparisons, while also responding to evolving clinical practices and technology. The main changes in this updated ISCEV Standard for clinical ERGs include specifying that ERGs may meet the Standard without mydriasis, providing stimuli adequately compensate for non-dilated pupils. There is more detail about analysis of dark-adapted oscillatory potentials (OPs) and the document format has been updated and supplementary content reduced. There is a more detailed review of the origins of the major ERG components. Several tests previously tabulated as additional ERG protocols are now cited as published ISCEV extended protocols. A non-standard abbreviated ERG protocol is described, for use when patient age, compliance or other circumstances preclude ISCEV Standard ERG testing.
Sensitivity of the stripe-faced dunnart, Sminthopsis macroura (Gould 1845), to the insecticide, fipronil; implications for pesticide risk assessments in Australia
Authors: Story Paul G. , Hinds Lyn A. , Henry Steve , Warden Andrew C. , Dojchinov Greg
Published: May 2022

A lack of toxicity data quantifying responses of Australian native mammals to agricultural pesticides prompted an investigation into the sensitivity of the stripe-faced dunnart, Sminthopsis macroura (Gould 1845) to the insecticide, fipronil (5-amino-3-cyano-1-(2,6-dichloro-4-trifluoromethylphenyl)-4-trifluoromethylsulfinyl pyrazole, CAS No. 120068-37-3). Using the Up-And-Down method for determining acute oral toxicity in mammals (OECD) median lethal dose estimates of 990 mg kg−1 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 580.7–4770.0 mg kg−1) and 270.4 mg kg−1 (95% CI = 0.0–>20,000.0 mg kg−1) were resolved for male and female S. macroura, respectively. The difference between median lethal dose estimates for males and females may have been influenced by the older ages of two female dunnarts. Consequently, further modelling of female responses to fipronil doses used the following assumptions: (a) death at 2000 mg kg−1, (b) survival at 500 mg kg−1 and (c) a differential response (both survival and death) at 990 mg kg−1. This modelling revealed median lethal dose estimates for female S. macroura of 669.1 mg kg−1 (95% CI = 550–990 mg kg−1; assuming death at 990 mg kg−1) and 990 mg kg−1 (95% CI = 544.7–1470 mg kg−1; assuming survival at 990 mg kg−1). These median lethal dose estimates are 3–10-fold higher than available LD50 values of 94 mg kg−1 for a similarly sized eutherian mammal, Mus musculus (L. 1758) and 97 mg kg−1 for Rattus norvegicus (Birkenhout 1769). Implications for pesticide risk assessments in Australia are discussed.
Large-Scale Fire Tests on Sliding Doors for Building Applications
Authors: Thanasoulas Ilias , Lauridsen Dan , Husted Bjarne , Giuliani Luisa
Published: May 2022

The performance of fire doors is essential for the fire safety in buildings. In the present study, a series of large-scale fire tests on sliding doors is performed in the facilities of the Danish Institute of Fire and Security Technology. The test specimens comprise typical and commercially available door solutions for building applications. Similar doors of approximate dimensions 3 m × 3 m and 5 m × 3 m (width × height) are examined, while separate tests are conducted for each side of door exposed to fire. In all cases, the test specimens are mounted on appropriate wall frames of aeriated concrete as used in practice. The test results are compared in terms of transient temperature and deflection measurements. Findings reveal that the examined sliding doors exhibit satisfactory fire performance meeting the classification requirements. The overall fire performance is not affected by the width opening of door, while the fire resistance rating is significantly influenced by the side of exposure to fire. Finally, the failure characteristics are discussed, and the fire behavior of sliding doors is evaluated.
Early and Rapid Identification of COVID-19 Patients with Neutralizing Type I Interferon Auto-antibodies
Authors: Akbil Bengisu , Meyer Tim , Stubbemann Paula , Thibeault Charlotte , Staudacher Olga , Niemeyer Daniela , Jansen Jenny , Mühlemann Barbara , Doehn Jan , Tabeling Christoph , Nusshag Christian , Hirzel Cédric , Sanchez David Sökler , Nieters Alexandra , Lother Achim , Duerschmied Daniel , Schallner Nils , Lieberum Jan Nikolaus , August Dietrich , Rieg Siegbert , Falcone Valeria , Hengel Hartmut , Kölsch Uwe , Unterwalder Nadine , Hübner Ralf-Harto , Jones Terry C. , Suttorp Norbert , Drosten Christian , Warnatz Klaus , Spinetti Thibaud , Schefold Joerg C. , Dörner Thomas , Sander Leif Erik , Corman Victor M. , Merle Uta ,   Pa-COVID study Group, Kurth Florian , von Bernuth Horst , Meisel Christian , Goffinet Christine
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Six to 19% of critically ill COVID-19 patients display circulating auto-antibodies against type I interferons (IFN-AABs). Here, we establish a clinically applicable strategy for early identification of IFN-AAB-positive patients for potential subsequent clinical interventions.

Methods

We analyzed sera of 430 COVID-19 patients from four hospitals for presence of IFN-AABs by ELISA. Binding specificity and neutralizing activity were evaluated via competition assay and virus-infection-based neutralization assay. We defined clinical parameters associated with IFN-AAB positivity. In a subgroup of critically ill patients, we analyzed effects of therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) on the levels of IFN-AABs, SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and clinical outcome.

Results

The prevalence of neutralizing AABs to IFN-α and IFN-ω in COVID-19 patients from all cohorts was 4.2% (18/430), while being undetectable in an uninfected control cohort. Neutralizing IFN-AABs were detectable exclusively in critically affected (max. WHO score 6–8), predominantly male (83%) patients (7.6%, 18/237 for IFN-α-AABs and 4.6%, 11/237 for IFN-ω-AABs in 237 patients with critical COVID-19). IFN-AABs were present early post-symptom onset and at the peak of disease. Fever and oxygen requirement at hospital admission co-presented with neutralizing IFN-AAB positivity. IFN-AABs were associated with lower probability of survival (7.7% versus 80.9% in patients without IFN-AABs). TPE reduced levels of IFN-AABs in three of five patients and may increase survival of IFN-AAB-positive patients compared to those not undergoing TPE.

Conclusion

IFN-AABs may serve as early biomarker for the development of severe COVID-19. We propose to implement routine screening of hospitalized COVID-19 patients for rapid identification of patients with IFN-AABs who most likely benefit from specific therapies.
The state of play regarding the social sustainability of the construction industry: a systematic review
Authors: Gurmu Argaw , Shooshtarian Salman , Mahmood Muhammad Nateque , Hosseini M Reza , Shreshta Asheem , Martek Igor
Published: May 2022

The social dimensions of sustainability’s three bottom lines are often overlooked in the construction industry. This is despite attempts to find optimal trade-offs between economic growth, environmental impacts, human health and well-being, as well as social considerations. This study reviews the literature on social sustainability (SS) within the construction arena, identifies research gaps and proposes a forward-looking research agenda. This critical review employes the ‘Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses’ (PRISMA) technique to retrieve secondary data on SS from available academic, government and industry documents. The literature analysis focuses on seven themes: (1) definition of SS, (2) the theoretical dimensions of SS, (3) primary stakeholders, (4) policy and guidelines, (5) major SS performance indicators, (6) barriers to SS uptake in the construction industry, and (7) SS drivers in the construction industry. The review identifies primary stakeholders and proposes a list of assessment criteria that can be used by the construction industry in measuring progress towards SS. The study proposes a conceptual model that maps out key stakeholders, the major barriers, and enablers of SS in construction projects. The findings will support the development of SS guidelines specific to the construction industry in Australia as well as overseas.