bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analyzing cloud droplet spatial tendencies on the millimetre and centimetre scales in stratocumulus clouds
Authors: Dodson Dillon S. , Small Griswold Jennifer D.
Published: February 2022

It is well known that fluid turbulence can affect cloud droplet motion, leading to droplet clustering, which in turn can impact precipitation formation through influences on collision–coalescence. Previous work suggests that droplet clustering, or preferential concentration, of cloud droplets occurs on the order of the Kolmogorov length‐scale (), with the magnitude of this clustering depending on the Stokes number (). However, the accuracy of these theories remains largely unquantified for atmospheric clouds. Therefore, data gathered from a weakly turbulent marine stratocumulus (Sc) deck during the Variability of the American Monsoons (VAMOS) Ocean–Cloud–Atmosphere–Land Study Regional Experiment (VOCALS‐REx) are used to analyze the spatial statistics of cloud droplets by means of one‐dimensional pair correlation functions . Cloud droplet arrival times were recorded onboard the CIRPAS Twin‐Otter aircraft over a two‐week analysis period using the Artium Flight phase‐Doppler Interferometer. Results from 2431 subsets of droplet arrival data indicate that droplet clustering occurs in 95% of cases from analyzing , with the magnitude of the clustering becoming significant in the turbulence dissipation range, at a length‐scale of . Analyzing as a function of in‐cloud normalized height () indicates that a maximum in the magnitude of average droplet clustering occurs near the Sc middle, at = 0.47. Droplet clustering and are also found to be strongly correlated at a statistically significant rate.
Effects of Ca and Ag addition and heat treatment on the corrosion behavior of Mg‐7Sn alloys in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution
Authors: Li Wandong
Published: February 2022

The effects of 1 wt.% Ca or 1 wt.% Ca + 1 wt.% Ag addition and heat treatment on the corrosion behavior of Mg‐7Sn (wt.%) alloy in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution were investigated by electrochemical measurements and immersion tests. The alloys were characterized by optical microscope (OM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). It was found that all alloys were corroded by pitting corrosion and grain boundary corrosion and further corroded with time going. Loose layers of compounds, including Mg (OH)2, MgO, SnO2, and other compounds containing Ca and Ag elements, were calibrated on the surface of corroded Mg‐7Sn‐1Ca‐1Ag alloy. The Ca addition improved the corrosion resistance of Mg‐7Sn alloy due to the formation of relatively stable compounds containing calcium element and grains refinement. Furthermore, the solid solutioned alloys obtained a superior corrosion resistance due to the dissolve of eutectic Mg2Sn phase and homogenization treatment. However, the aging treatment is slightly detrimental to the corrosion resistance of Mg‐7Sn alloys with the formation of Mg2Sn precipitates. In conclusion, the aged Mg‐7Sn‐1Ca‐1Ag alloy exhibited a better corrosion resistance and a noticeable micro‐hardness property compared with those of as‐cast Mg‐7Sn alloy. And this study provides an important idea for the research on the comprehensive properties of Mg‐Sn alloys.
Enantioselective Biginelli Reaction Catalyzed by (L)‐Prolinamide Containing Imidazolium Ionic Liquid
Authors: Deepa  , Aalam M. J. , Singh S.
Published: February 2022

(L)‐Prolinamide containing imidazolium ionic liquids have been synthesized and evaluated as organocatalysts for the asymmetric Biginelli reaction of benzaldehydes, urea, and β‐keto esters. The synthesized chiral ionic liquids were characterized by various techniques such as FT‐NMR, FT‐IR, TGA, and HRMS. The chiral ionic liquid containing adamantyl (L)‐prolinamide having [BF4]‐ anion (5 mol %) and p‐toluenesulfonic acid (5 mol %) as an additive catalyzed the Biginelli reaction and afforded a variety of chiral 3,4‐dihydropyrimidin‐2‐(1H)‐ones (DHPMs) in 16–74 % yields and 7–85 % ee's after 48 h at room temperature and out of 30 chiral DHPMs products, 18 are new. A plausible reaction mechanism and transition states or intermediates have been proposed and supported by FT‐NMR spectroscopy and DFT calculations. The asymmetric induction was favored by the Re‐face attack on the imine bond and the Biginelli products were obtained with (R)‐absolute configuration. The DFT calculations (B3LYP/631‐G*) were performed to find the energy of the intermediates.
Testosterone Imprinted poly(HEMA‐MAA) Nanoparticles Based Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensor for Detection of Testosterone
Authors: Çimen Duygu
Published: February 2022

The selective, sensitive, and real‐time detection of testosterone was performed from both testosterone aqueous solution and artificial urine samples by using the advantages of surface plasmon resonance sensor (SPR) with molecular imprinting technique. The testosterone imprinted (MIP) and non‐imprinted (NIP) nanoparticle based poly(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate‐methacrylic acid (poly(HEMA‐MAA)) SPR sensors were prepared for detection of testosterone. After characterization of MIP and NIP nanoparticles, nanoparticles were attached on the SPR chip surfaces. The characterization of SPR sensor surfaces was carried out with characterization methods such as atomic force microscopy, ellipsometer and contact angle measurements. The real‐time measurements for detection of testosterone were performed with testosterone imprinted SPR sensor in the linear range of 0.5‐20 ng/mL concentration in testosterone aqueous solution. The imprinting factor and the limit of detection was found 4.16 and 0.049 ng/mL, respectively. The validation studies were performed with both SPR sensor and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay using testosterone samples prepared in artificial urine samples for the detection of testosterone.
A Gluten‐Free Biscuit Fortified with Lemon IntegroPectin
Authors: Nuzzo Domenico , Scurria Antonino , Picone Pasquale , Guiducci Alessandro , Pagliaro Mario , Pantaleo Giuseppe , Albanese Lorenzo , Meneguzzo Francesco , Ciriminna Rosaria
Published: February 2022

We report the first outcomes of producing a gluten‐free biscuit by replacing 2.5 wt% of the rice flour used in the preparation of a commercial gluten‐free cookie with lemon IntegroPectin, a new citrus pectin obtained from lemon processing waste via hydrodynamic cavitation. The cookie's friability, palate adhesion, flavor persistency and compactness remain virtually unchanged, whereas sapidity and color improve. Only the sweetness and the smell (flavor) of the functionalized cookie are lower than those of the commercial biscuit. The enhanced heat resistance and unique structure of this new citrus pectin unveiled by XRD and TGA structural and thermal analyses make it suitable for the straightforward functionalization of bakery products with numerous potential health benefits.
Predictive Modeling of Dye Solar Cell Degradation
Authors: Poskela Aapo , Tiihonen Armi , Palonen Heikki , Lund Peter D. , Miettunen Kati
Published: February 2022

Degradation of dye solar cell performance based on the early changes in electrolyte color is predicted, allowing to estimate the lifetime of the dye solar cells even before their efficiency declines. Previous predictive models commonly rely on regression analysis of the predicted parameter; thus, they are unable to capture degradation before a significant decrease in performance. Degradation tests, even when accelerated, may take thousands of hours. As such, recognizing degradation trends early can lead to rewarding cuts in the duration of solar cell development pipelines. With accurate lifetime predictions, researchers can steer materials research to reach longer lifetimes in shorter cycles. The predictive power of our model relies on color changes in the electrolyte that directly correlate with the concentration of tri‐iodide charge carriers within it, the loss of which is the predominant degradation mechanism for most liquid‐electrolyte dye solar cells. By linking the physical mechanisms inside the cell, which eventually start to degrade the performance of dye solar cells, an early prediction of the lifetime can be made even when the device performance still appears stable. It is exemplified with dye solar cells that integrating architecture‐specific knowledge on degradation mechanisms has potential to improve lifetime predictions for photovoltaics.
Illumination‐Driven Energy Level Realignment at Buried Interfaces between Organic Charge Transport Layers and a Lead Halide Perovskite
Authors: Zu Fengshuo , Roß Marcel , Frohloff Lennart , Shin Dongguen , Tessler Nir , Albrecht Steve , Koch Norbert
Published: February 2022

Tremendous progress in employing metal halide perovskites (MHPs) in a variety of applications, especially in photovoltaics, has been made in the past decade. To unlock the full potential of MHP materials in optoelectronic devices, an improved understanding of the electronic energy level alignment at perovskite‐based interfaces is required. This particularly pertains to such interfaces under device operation conditions, e.g. under illumination with visible light such as in a solar cell. Herein, it is revealed that the energy level alignment at the buried interface between a double cation lead halide perovskite film and charge‐selective organic transport layers changes upon white light illumination. This is found from photoemission experiments performed with the samples in dark and under illumination, and the interfacial energy level shift is reversible. The underlying mechanism is attributed to the accumulation of one charge carrier type within the perovskite film at the interface under illumination, as a result of the charge‐selective nature of the organic layer. The fact that the interfacial energy level alignment at MHP‐based junctions under illumination can differ from that in dark is to be taken into account to fully rationalize device characteristics.
Inverted c-functions in thermal states
Authors: Cartwright Casey , Kaminski Matthias
Published: February 2022

Abstract

We first compute the effect of a chiral anomaly, charge, and a magnetic field on the entanglement entropy in $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 Super-Yang-Mills theory at strong coupling via holography. Depending on the width of the entanglement strip the entanglement entropy probes energy scales from the ultraviolet to the infrared energy regime of this quantum field theory (QFT) prepared in a given state. From the entanglement entropy, we compute holographic c-functions and demonstrate an inverted c-theorem for them. That is, these c-functions in generic thermal states monotonically increase towards the infrared (IR) energy regime. This is in contrast to the c-functions in vacuum states which decrease along the renormalization group flow towards the IR regime of a renormalizable QFT. Furthermore, in thermal states and in the IR limit, the c-functions behave thermally, growing proportionally to the value of the thermal entropy. The chiral anomaly affects the c-functions more in the IR regime, and its effect is peaked at an intermediate value of the magnetic field at a fixed chemical potential and temperature.
Conformal conserved currents in embedding space
Authors: Fortin Jean-François , Ma Wen-Jie , Prilepina Valentina , Skiba Witold
Published: February 2022

Abstract

We study conformal conserved currents in arbitrary irreducible representations of the Lorentz group using the embedding space formalism. With the help of the operator product expansion, we first show that conservation conditions can be fully investigated by considering only two- and three-point correlation functions. We then find an explicitly conformally-covariant differential operator in embedding space that implements conservation based on the standard position space operator product expansion differential operator ∂μ, although the latter does not uplift to embedding space covariantly. The differential operator in embedding space that imposes conservation is the same differential operator $$ \mathcal{D} $$
D
ijA used in the operator product expansion in embedding space. We provide several examples including conserved currents in irreducible representations that are not symmetric and traceless. With an eye on four-point conformal bootstrap equations for four conserved vector currents 〈JJJJ〉 and four energy-momentum tensors 〈TTTT〉, we mostly focus on conservation conditions for $$ \left\langle JJ\mathcal{O}\right\rangle $$

JJ
O

and $$ \left\langle TT\mathcal{O}\right\rangle $$

TT
O

. Finally, we reproduce and extend the consequences of conformal Ward identities at coincident points by determining three-point coefficients in terms of charges.
Disc partition function of 2d R2 gravity from DWG matrix model
Authors: Kazakov Vladimir , Levkovich-Maslyuk Fedor
Published: February 2022

Abstract

We compute the sum over flat surfaces of disc topology with arbitrary number of conical singularities. To that end, we explore and generalize a specific case of the matrix model of dually weighted graphs (DWG) proposed and solved by one of the authors, M. Staudacher and Th. Wynter. Namely, we compute the sum over quadrangulations of the disc with certain boundary conditions, with parameters controlling the number of squares (area), the length of the boundary and the coordination numbers of vertices. The vertices introduce conical defects with angle deficit given by a multiple of π, corresponding to positive, zero or negative curvature. Our results interpolate between the well-known 2d quantum gravity solution for the disc with fluctuating 2d metric and the regime of “almost flat” surfaces with all the negative curvature concentrated on the boundary. We also speculate on possible ways to study the fluctuating 2d geometry with AdS2 background instead of the flat one.
Implementing organ-on-chip in a next-generation risk assessment of chemicals: a review
Authors: Nitsche Katharina S. , Müller Iris , Malcomber Sophie , Carmichael Paul L. , Bouwmeester Hans
Published: February 2022

Organ-on-chip (OoC) technology is full of engineering and biological challenges, but it has the potential to revolutionize the Next-Generation Risk Assessment of novel ingredients for consumer products and chemicals. A successful incorporation of OoC technology into the Next-Generation Risk Assessment toolbox depends on the robustness of the microfluidic devices and the organ tissue models used. Recent advances in standardized device manufacturing, organ tissue cultivation and growth protocols offer the ability to bridge the gaps towards the implementation of organ-on-chip technology. Next-Generation Risk Assessment is an exposure-led and hypothesis-driven tiered approach to risk assessment using detailed human exposure information and the application of appropriate new (non-animal) toxicological testing approaches. Organ-on-chip presents a promising in vitro approach by combining human cell culturing with dynamic microfluidics to improve physiological emulation. Here, we critically review commercial organ-on-chip devices, as well as recent tissue culture model studies of the skin, intestinal barrier and liver as the main metabolic organ to be used on-chip for Next-Generation Risk Assessment. Finally, microfluidically linked tissue combinations such as skin–liver and intestine–liver in organ-on-chip devices are reviewed as they form a relevant aspect for advancing toxicokinetic and toxicodynamic studies. We point to recent achievements and challenges to overcome, to advance non-animal, human-relevant safety studies.
Exercise Prescription Enhances Maximal Oxygen Uptake and Anaerobic Threshold in Young Single Ventricle Patients with Fontan Circulation
Authors: Pyykkönen Henri , Rahkonen Otto , Ratia Nadja , Lähteenmäki Sini , Tikkanen Heikki , Piirilä Päivi , Pitkänen-Argillander Olli
Published: February 2022

A modified Fontan procedure is performed to palliate single ventricle malformations. This hemodynamic arrangement sets systemic venous pressure unphysiologically high which predisposes the patient to severe long-term complications. As a means of self-care, exercise may ease transpulmonary flow. We investigated the effects of 6-month exercise prescription on pediatric Fontan patients. Eighteen stable Fontan patients (14 ± 2.6 years, 160.4 ± 11.3 cm, and 51.4 ± 14.4 kg) were recruited. Baseline fitness was assessed by physical activity questionnaire, body composition, cardiorespiratory performance, and muscle fitness tests. Exercise prescription was individually tailored for a 6-month training period at home. At entrance to the study, Fontan patients had lower than normal maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) of 28. ± 5.9 ml/kg/min (61 ± 11% of normal). VO2max significantly correlated with weekly amount of habitual exercise and muscle mass of the lower limbs (p < 0.001 for both). After 6 months of training, the patients had improved their anaerobic threshold of 18 ± 3.5 vs 20 ± 4.8 ml/kg/min, p = 0.007, and workload tolerance of 119 ± 39 vs 132.4 ± 44 W, p = 0.001. At EUROFIT tests, the patient muscle fitness was below age-matched reference, but correlations existed between VO2max and lower limb muscle tests. Our patients with Fontan hemodynamics were able to positively respond to an exercise program by enhancing submaximal performance which should be beneficial for getting through daily activities. Future studies should correlate whether hemodynamic findings at Fontan completion influence physical activity and exercise reserves, and whether these predict predisposition to chronic complications.
Elastic tubes: the ideal equipment for telehealth exercise medicine in the management of prostate cancer?
Authors: Mavropalias Georgios
Published: February 2022

Prostate cancer (PCa) affects 1 in 8 men, but exercise therapy has been shown to be a very effective intervention not only to induce physiological benefits but to also reduce the side effects of cancer treatments typically administered during PCa. The COVID19 pandemic has restricted access to exercise clinics, a problem which always existed for people living in rural and remote areas. This caused many exercise physiologists and researchers to transition their clinic-based exercise to online, home-based exercise. We would like to propose that researchers and exercise physiologists should consider the use of elastic tubes in both research and the clinical management of PCa, when exercise programs are administered remotely, as their characteristics make them an ideal exercise equipment. In this article, the characteristics, considerations, and information on quantifying exercise dosage when using elastic tubes in remote exercise delivery are discussed.
Using patient experiences to evaluate care and expectations in lung cancer: analysis of the English Cancer Patient Experience Survey linked with the national cancer registry
Authors: Nartey Yvonne , Tata Laila J. , Khakwani Aamir , Beattie Vanessa , Beckett Paul , Hubbard Richard B. , Stewart Iain
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Identification of unmet needs in person centred and supportive care could be limited by differences in experience across specific cancer populations. Using the experiences of people with lung cancer, we assess distinctions according to demographic and clinical characteristics.

Methods

The English Cancer Patient Experience Survey was linked to the national cancer registry. The primary outcome was experience of the lung cancer pathway when assessed in multi-question models developed with item response theory. Secondary outcomes were experience by treatment received and in separate dimensions of the care pathway: up to diagnosis, treatment information, and staff support.

Results

Responses from 15,967 adults with a lung cancer diagnosis between 2009 and 2015 were included. Positive experiences were more likely to be reported by people aged between 65 and 80 (adjusted coefficient 0.08, 95%CI 0.05;0.11), those living in the most deprived areas (adjusted coefficient 0.10, 95%CI 0.05;0.14), diagnosed at lung cancer stage IIA–B (adjusted coefficient 0.09, 95%CI 0.04;0.14), and those diagnosed through inpatient elective admissions (adjusted coefficient 0.17, 95%CI 0.07;0.28). Specific experiences differed across dimensions of care and within lung cancer treatment groups.

Conclusions

Experiences differed according to gender and ethnicity, supporting previous observations in cancer. In contrast to previous studies, people with lung cancer were more likely to report positive pathway experiences at older ages, living in more deprived areas, or diagnosed after stage I, all frequently associated with worse clinical outcomes. The distinct observations in lung cancer specific analyses suggest potential unmet needs, such as in early stage disease and younger age groups.
Fear of cancer recurrence and PSA anxiety in patients with prostate cancer: a systematic review
Authors: James Callum , Brunckhorst Oliver , Eymech Omar , Stewart Robert , Dasgupta Prokar , Ahmed Kamran
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The impact of prostate cancer on the mental wellbeing of patients is increasingly being appreciated. Two important aspects of this include fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) anxiety. However, their prevalence, severity and associating factors remain poorly understood. Therefore, this review aims to evaluate the current evidence for the prevalence, severity and associating features of PSA anxiety and FCR.

Methods

A systematic search of MEDLINE, EMBASE and PsycINFO databases was conducted by two independent reviewers. Observational studies measuring FCR and PSA anxiety in prostate cancer using validated measures were included. Outcome measures were prevalence of significant levels, mean scores and significant correlations of FCR and PSA anxiety scores with patient, disease, treatment or other mental health and quality of life outcomes.

Results

One thousand one hundred forty-eight individual records underwent screening with 32 studies included. Median prevalence of significant FCR and PSA anxiety was 16% and 22% respectively across all studies. Longitudinal studies demonstrated severity of both symptoms peaks at diagnosis, with little variability, even several years following this. Evaluating associating factors revealed younger age, generalised quality of life and mental health symptoms to be important factors for both outcomes. Few studies evaluated associations and differences between other patient, disease and treatment characteristics.

Conclusion

FCR and PSA anxiety are prominent symptoms for prostate cancer patients and importantly when present, are associated with poorer quality of life and mental health symptoms. Screening for these constructs and referral to appropriate services should form part of routine follow-up care.
Intravenous ibuprofen versus diclofenac plus orphenadrine in orthognathic surgery: a prospective, randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical study
Authors: Tomic Josip , Wallner Jürgen , Mischak Irene , Sendlhofer Gerald , Zemann Wolfgang , Schanbacher Monika , Hassanzadeh Hamid , Sandner-Kiesling Andreas , Payer Michael , Zrnc Tomislav A.
Published: February 2022

Objectives

The aim of this prospective, randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical study was to evaluate the analgesic effect of ibuprofen versus diclofenac plus orphenadrine on postoperative pain in orthognathic surgery.

Material and methods

Patients who underwent orthognathic surgery were randomized into two groups to receive intravenously either 600 mg of ibuprofen (I-group) or 75 mg diclofenac plus 30 mg orphenadrine (D-group), both of which were given twice daily. Additionally, both groups were given metamizole 500 mg. Rescue pain medication consisted of acetaminophen 1000 mg and piritramide 7.5 mg as needed. To assess the pain intensity, the primary end point was the numeric rating scale (NRS) recorded over the course of the hospital stay three times daily for 3 days.

Results

One hundred nine patients were enrolled (age range, 18 to 61 years) between May 2019 and November 2020. Forty-eight bilateral sagittal split osteotomies (BSSO) and 51 bimaxillary osteotomies (BIMAX) were performed. Surgical subgroup analysis found a significant higher mean NRS (2.73 vs.1.23) in the BIMAX D-group vs. I-group (p = 0.015) on the third postoperative day. Additionally, as the patient’s body mass index (BMI) increased, the mean NRS (r = 0.517, p = 0.001) also increased. No differences were found between age, gender, length of hospital stay, weight, operating times, number of patients with complete pain relief, acetaminophen or piritramide intake, and NRS values. No adverse events were observed.

Conclusion

The results of this study demonstrate that ibuprofen administration and lower BMI were associated with less pain for patients who underwent bimaxillary osteotomy on the third postoperative day. Therefore, surgeons may prefer ibuprofen for more effective pain relief after orthognathic surgery.

Clinical relevance

Ibuprofen differs from diclofenac plus orphenadrine in class and is a powerful analgetic after orthognathic surgery.
Magnetic bead mixing in a microfluidic chamber induced by an in-plane rotating magnetic field
Authors: Shanko Eriola-Sophia , van Buul Olaf , Wang Ye , van de Burgt Yoeri , Anderson Patrick , den Toonder Jaap
Published: February 2022

Magnetic microbeads have been widely used for the capturing of biomarkers, as well as for microfluidic mixing for point-of-care diagnostics. In magnetic micromixing, microbead motion is generated by external electromagnets, inducing fluid kinetics, and consequently mixing. Here, we utilize an in-plane rotating magnetic field to induce magnetic bead mixing in a circular microfluidic chamber that allows better access with (optical) readout than for existing micromixing approaches. We analyze the magnetic bead dynamics, the induced fluid profiles and we quantify the mixing performance of the system. The rotating field causes the combination of (1) a global rotating flow counter to the external field rotation induced by magnetic particles moving along the chamber side wall, with (2) local flow perturbations induced by rotating magnetic bead clusters in the central area of the chamber, rotating in the same direction as the external field. This combination leads to efficient mixing performance within 2 min of actuated magnetic field. We integrate magnetic mushroom-shaped features around the circumference of the chamber to generate significantly higher global fluid velocities compared with the no-mushroom configuration, but this results in less efficient mixing due to the absence of the central rotating bead clusters. To validate and understand the experimental results and to predict further enhancement of mixing, we carry out numerical simulations of induced fluid profiles and their corresponding mixing indices, and we explore the additional effect of integrating geometrical structures. The micromixing method we introduce here is particularly suitable for microfluidic devices in which the biochemical assay happens in a microfluidic chamber under no-flow conditions, i.e., with initially stagnant fluids, and for which the time-to-result is critical, such as in point-of-care diagnostics.
Personalised 3D Assessment of Trochanteric Soft Tissues Improves HIP Fracture Classification Accuracy
Authors: Aldieri Alessandra , Terzini Mara , Audenino Alberto L. , Bignardi Cristina , Paggiosi Margaret , Eastell Richard , Viceconti Marco , Bhattacharya Pinaki
Published: February 2022

Passive soft tissues surrounding the trochanteric region attenuate fall impact forces and thereby control hip fracture risk. The degree of attenuation is related to Soft Tissue Thickness (STT). STT at the neutral hip impact orientation, estimated using a regression relation in body mass index (BMI), was previously shown to influence the current absolute risk of hip fracture (ARF0) and its fracture classification accuracy. The present study investigates whether fracture classification using ARF0 improves when STT is determined from the subject’s Computed-Tomography (CT) scans (i.e. personalised) in an orientation-specific (i.e. 3D) manner. STT is calculated as the shortest distance along any impact orientation between a semi-automatically segmented femur surface and an automatically segmented soft tissue/air boundary. For any subject, STT along any of the 33 impact orientations analysed always exceeds the value estimated using BMI. Accuracy of fracture classification using ARF0 improves when using personalised 3D STT estimates (AUC = 0.87) instead of the BMI-based STT estimate (AUC = 0.85). The improvement is smaller (AUC = 0.86) when orientation-specificity of CT-based STT is suppressed and is nil when personalisation is suppressed instead. Thus, fracture classification using ARF0 improves when CT is used to personalise STT estimates and improves further when, in addition, the estimates are orientation specific.
A Note on the Structural Change Test in Highly Parameterized Psychometric Models
Authors: Huth K. B. S. , Waldorp L. J. , Luigjes J. , Goudriaan A. E. , van Holst R. J. , Marsman M.
Published: February 2022

Equal parameter estimates across subgroups is a substantial requirement of statistical tests. Ignoring subgroup differences poses a threat to study replicability, model specification, and theory development. Structural change tests are a powerful statistical technique to assess parameter invariance. A core element of those tests is the empirical fluctuation process. In the case of parameter invariance, the fluctuation process asymptotically follows a Brownian bridge. This asymptotic assumption further provides the basis for inference. However, the empirical fluctuation process does not follow a Brownian bridge in small samples, and this situation is amplified in large psychometric models. Therefore, common methods of obtaining the sampling distribution are invalid and the structural change test becomes conservative. We discuss an alternative solution to obtaining the sampling distribution—permutation approaches. Permutation approaches estimate the sampling distribution through resampling of the dataset, avoiding distributional assumptions. Hereby, the tests power are improved. We conclude that the permutation alternative is superior to standard asymptotic approximations of the sampling distribution.
Wetting mechanism and morphological adaptation; leaf rolling enhancing atmospheric water acquisition in wheat crop—a review
Authors: Ali Zulfiqar , Merrium Sabah , Habib-ur-Rahman Muhammad , Hakeem Sadia , Saddique Muhammad Abu Bakar , Sher Muhammad Ali
Published: February 2022

Several plant species such as grasses are dominant in many habitats including arid and semi-arid areas. These species survive in these regions by developing exclusive structures, which helps in the collection of atmospheric water. Before the collected water evaporates, these structures have unique canopy structure for water transportation that plays an equivalent share in the fog-harvesting mechanism. In this review, the atmospheric gaseous water harvesting mechanisms and their affinity of measurements were discussed. Morphological adaptations and their role in the capturing of atmospheric gaseous water of various species were also discussed. The key factor for the water collection and its conduction in the wheat plant is the information of contact angle hysteresis. In wheat, leaf rolling and its association with wetting property help the plant in water retention. Morphological adaptations, i.e., leaf erectness, grooves, and prickle hairs, also help in the collection and acquisition of water droplets by stem flows in directional guide toward the base of the plant and allow its rapid uptake. Morphological adaptation strengthens the harvesting mechanism by preventing the loss of water through shattering. Thus, wheat canopy architecture can be modified to harvest the atmospheric water and directional movement of water towards the root zone for self-irrigation. Moreover, these morphological adaptations are also linked with drought avoidance and corresponding physiological processes to resist water stress. The combination of these traits together with water use efficiency in wheat contributes to a highly efficient atmospheric water harvesting system that enables the wheat plants to reduce the cost of production. It also increases the yielding potential of the crop in arid and semi-arid environments. Further investigating the ecophysiology and molecular pathways of these morphological adaptations in wheat may have significant applications in varying climatic scenarios.
Periocular Manifestation of Obstructive Sleep Apnea as a Novel Perioperative Screening Tool
Authors: Folsom Megan , Gigantelli James , Timperley Brent , Johnson Kurtis , Bagenda Danstan , Pang Huiling , Ellis Sheila
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) presents perioperative challenges with increased risk for complications. Floppy eyelid syndrome (FES) is associated with OSA yet has not been addressed perioperatively. The current standard for perioperative OSA screening includes assessing patient risk factors or the STOP-BANG tool, which requires an active participant. We aimed to confirm a connection between FES and OSA in presurgical patients and develop a screening method appropriate for patients with perioperative OSA risk.

Materials and Methods

162 presurgical pre-anesthesia clinic patients were enrolled. Screening questions determined eligibility. Those who were pregnant or aged < 19 were excluded. Control group included those with a STOP-BANG score < 3. Experimental group included those with BMI > 35 and OSA diagnosis. Examiners photographed participants’ eyes with vertical and horizontal retraction while two blinded ophthalmologists used a grading scale to review grade of eyelid laxity.

Results

Differences in habitus, ASA score, and hypertension as a comorbidity were significant. Sensitivity of FES screening was 52% (CI 37–66%) and specificity was 56% (CI 46–66%) for reviewer 1. For reviewer 2, sensitivity was 48% (CI 28–69%) and specificity was 72% (CI 60–81%). Negative predictive value was 86% (CI 81–90) for reviewer 1 and 88% (CI 83–92%) for reviewer 2. Inter-rater agreement was moderate.

Conclusion

While specificity and sensitivity were lower than anticipated, negative predictive value was high. Given this strong negative predictive value, our findings indicate using eyelid retraction to screen for FES has perioperative clinical utility. These findings encourage further research addressing the connection of lid laxity/FES to OSA.

Key Points

• Aimed to investigate if a FES screening tool could identify perioperative OSA risk.

• Negative predictive value for FES with OSA was 86%.

• Observing periocular lid laxity has clinical utility; is feasible in any patient.

Graphical abstract
Predictive value of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio on acute kidney injury after on-pump coronary artery bypass: a retrospective, single-center study
Authors: Guangqing Zhang , Liwei Cheng , Fei Ling , Jianshe Zheng , Guang Zeng , Yan Zhu , Jianjun Cao , Ming Tian , Hao Chen , Wei Liu
Published: February 2022

Objective

To investigate the predictive value of preoperative neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) on acute kidney injury (AKI) after on-pump coronary artery bypass (ONCAB).

Methods

Patients who underwent elective ONCAB for coronary heart disease were included. NLR was calculated according to the results of preoperative routine blood test, patients were divided into non-AKI and AKI groups, and the differences in clinical baseline data between the two groups were compared.

Results

A total of 154 patients were included in this study, including 57 (37%) with postoperative AKI and 97 (63%) without AKI. Compared with the patients in non-AKI group, those in AKI group had higher NLR (2.63 (1.83, 3.505) vs. 2.06 (1.7, 2.56), p = 0.002), higher serum creatinine (78 (67, 98.5) vs. 70.9 ± 16.8 umol/L, p < 0.001), longer cardiopulmonary bypass time, and longer aortic cross clamp time. After dividing patient into tertiles based on NLR, those with higher NLR had higher risk of postoperative AKI than those with lower NLR (30% vs. 25% vs. 55.8%, p for trend = 0.003). Patients in Tertile2 and Tertile3 had higher NLR compared to those in Tertile1 (p < 0.05); multivariate logistic regression analysis showed patients with elevated preoperative NLR and blood creatinine had higher risk of postoperative AKI. ROC curve showed that patients’ preoperative NLR combined with blood creatinine had better predictive value for postoperative AKI.

Conclusion

Elevated preoperative NLR is associated with AKI after ONCAB, and had prognostic utility independent of other recognized risk factors.
Effect of Low Bi Content on Reliability of Sn-Bi Alloy Joints Before and After Thermal Aging
Authors: Nishikawa Hiroshi , Hirata Yuki , Yang Chih-han , Lin Shih-kang
Published: February 2022

Sn-58Bi, an eutectic alloy, has been explored for use as a low-temperature lead-free solder alloy. However, the properties of Sn-Bi alloys as well as those of their joints need to be improved significantly so that these alloys can be applicable for practical use. In particular, two drawbacks need to be addressed: the intrinsic brittleness of Bi and the microstructure coarsening of these alloys during aging. In this study, Sn-Bi-Zn (SBZ) and SBZ-In (SBZI) alloys with low Bi contents were examined to elucidate the effects of the addition of Zn and In to the Sn-45Bi alloy on the interface and shear strengths of Cu/Cu joints before and after aging. In the case of the SBZ/Cu and SBZI/Cu joints, Bi coarsening was not observed either near or at the interfaces of the Cu/Cu joints. The shear strengths of the SBZ and SBZI joints remained unchanged after aging for 1008 h, suggesting that the SBZI alloy demonstrated the highest long-term reliability among all the joints examined.
RNF144A exerts tumor suppressor function in breast cancer through targeting YY1 for proteasomal degradation to downregulate GMFG expression
Authors: Zhang Yin-Ling , Cao Jin-Ling , Zhang Ye , Liao Li , Deng Ling , Yang Shao-Ying , Hu Shu-Yuan , Ning Yan , Zhang Fang-Lin , Li Da-Qiang
Published: February 2022

Ring finger protein 144A (RNF144A), a poorly characterized member of the RING-in-between-RING family of E3 ubiquitin ligases, is an emerging tumor suppressor, but its underlying mechanism remains largely elusive. To address this issue, we used Affymetrix GeneChip Human Transcriptome Array 2.0 to profile gene expression in MDA-MB-231 cells stably expressing empty vector pCDH and Flag-RNF144A, and found that 128 genes were differentially expressed between pCDH- and RNF144A-expressing cells with fold change over 1.5. We further demonstrated that RNF144A negatively regulated the protein and mRNA levels of glial maturation factor γ (GMFG). Mechanistical investigations revealed that transcription factor YY1 transcriptionally activated GMFG expression, and RNF144A interacted with YY1 and promoted its ubiquitination-dependent degradation, thus blocking YY1-induced GMFG expression. Functional rescue assays showed that ectopic expression of RNF144A suppressed the proliferative, migratory, and invasive potential of breast cancer cells, and the noted effects were partially restored by re-expression of GMFG in RNF144A-overexpressing breast cancer cells. Collectively, these findings reveal that RNF144A negatively regulates GMFG expression by targeting YY1 for proteasomal degradation, thus inhibiting the proliferation, migration, and invasion of breast cancer cells.
Climate Change and Human Behavior
Authors: Miles-Novelo Andreas , Anderson Craig A.
Published: February 2022

Much of the current rhetoric surrounding climate change focuses on the physical changes to the environment and the resulting material damage to infrastructure and resources. Although there has been some dialogue about secondary effects (namely mass migration), little effort has been given to understanding how rapid climate change is affecting people on group and individual levels. In this Element, we examine the psychological impacts of climate change, especially focused on how it will lead to increases in aggressive behaviors and violent conflict, and how it will influence other aspects of human behavior. We also look at previously established psychological effects and use them to help explain changes in human behavior resulting from rapid climate change, as well as to propose actions that can be taken to reduce climate change itself and mitigate harmful effects on humans.
Behandlung im Voraus Planen – ein «Advance Care Planning»-Konzept für Deutschland
Authors: Stanze Henrikje , Nauck Friedemann
Published: February 2022

Zusammenfassung. Das internationale Konzept von «Advance Care Planning» (ACP) steht für einen systematischen und qualifizierten Gesprächsprozess zwischen Personen, die über mögliche Krankheitsszenarien in Anwesenheit ihrer Angehörigen und Therapeuten sprechen möchten und ihren Wunsch zu medizinischen, pflegerischen, psychosozialen und seelsorglichen Versorgungen und Behandlungen äussern wollen. In Deutschland wurde im Sozialgesetzbuch (SGB) V der § 132 g zur Gesundheitlichen Versorgungsplanung für die letzte Lebensphase als Versicherungsleistung der Gesetzlichen Krankenkassen (GKV) für bestimmte Patientengruppen festgesetzt, was das ACP-Konzept widerspiegelt. Ein ACP-Konzept, das auf die Strukturen des Gesundheitssystems in Deutschland ausgerichtet ist, ist als «Behandlung im Voraus Planen» (BVP) bundesweit bekannt geworden. Im Rahmen der BVP-Gespräche werden nach dem Prinzip der partizipativen Entscheidungsfindung mit Bewohnern von Senioreneinrichtungen oder mit Menschen in der Eingliederungshilfe die individuellen Wünsche zu zukünftiger Behandlung und Versorgung erfasst und besprochen. In einem Dokument, wie einer Patientenverfügung, können diese Wünsche detailliert festgehalten werden. Diese Gespräche können hierfür speziell ausgebildete Personen aus den ärztlichen, aber auch nicht ärztlichen Berufsgruppen – wie Pflegefachkräfte, Sozialarbeiter, Heilerziehungspfleger, führen. Dazu muss eine dafür entwickelte Weiterbildungsmassnahme, die einem vorgeschriebenen Kerncurriculum des GKV-Spitzenverbands folgt, erfolgreich absolviert werden.
«State of the Art» zu Beratungen zu Patientenverfügungen
Authors: Oorschot Birgitt van , Henking Tanja
Published: February 2022

Zusammenfassung. Patientenverfügungen dienen der Wahrung der Selbstbestimmung am Lebensende. Mit ihnen sollen Patientinnen und Patienten die Möglichkeit erhalten, gestaltend auch dann in die eigene Behandlung einzugreifen, wenn sie dieses aufgrund eingetretener Einwilligungsunfähigkeit nicht mehr können. Für die klinische Praxis zeigt es sich als wichtig, insbesondere bei schweren Erkrankungen wie beispielsweise einer Krebserkrankung, nicht lediglich mit allgemeinen oder standardisierten Verfügungen zu arbeiten, sondern nach möglichst individuell passenden Formulierungen zu suchen. Dabei können die behandelnden Ärztinnen und Ärzte eine wichtige Unterstützung bieten.
Patientenverfügungen in Grenzsituationen
Authors: Schmitz Dagmar
Published: February 2022

Zusammenfassung. Patientenverfügungen sind ein wichtiges Instrument zur Förderung der Patientenautonomie im klinischen Alltag. Wenn jedoch Differenzen zwischen dem in einer Patientenverfügung dokumentierten Willen und dem aktuellen natürlichen Willen eines einwilligungsunfähigen oder den Präferenzen eines teilkompetenten Patienten sichtbar werden, entstehen für alle Beteiligten besonders herausfordernde Entscheidungssituationen. Diese sollen zunächst anhand eines Fallbeispiels illustriert und dann in ihren wichtigsten ethischen Argumentationslinien analysiert werden. Die erwartete Dauer der Entscheidungsunfähigkeit des Patienten ist hierbei ein aus ethischer Sicht wichtiger Parameter. Handelt es sich um eine bleibende beziehungsweise zunehmende, wie beispielsweise im Falle einer Demenzerkrankung, sollte das Augenmerk darauf gelegt werden, die verbliebene Selbstbestimmtheit des Patienten bestmöglich zu unterstützen. Das bedeutet, dass auch aktuelle Präferenzen und Äusserungen des teil- oder nicht mehr kompetenten Patienten mitbetrachtet werden müssen, wenn es um die Interpretation der Patientenverfügung und um die Planung nächster Schritte geht.
Role of the Deglacial Buildup of the Great Barrier Reef for the Global Carbon Cycle
Authors: Felis Thomas , Hinestrosa Gustavo , Köhler Peter , Webster Jody M.
Published: February 2022

The carbon isotope 13C is commonly used to attribute the last deglacial atmospheric CO2 rise to various processes. Here we show that the growth of the world's largest reef system, the Great Barrier Reef (GBR), is marked by a pronounced decrease in δ13C in absolutely dated fossil coral skeletons between 12.8 and 11.7 ka, which coincides with a prominent minimum in atmospheric δ13CO2 and the Younger Dryas. The event follows the flooding of a large shelf platform and initiation of an extensive barrier reef system at 13 ka. Carbon cycle simulations show the coral δ13C decrease was mainly caused by the combination of isotopic fractionation during reef carbonate production and the decomposition of organic land carbon on the newly flooded shallow‐water platform. The impacts of these processes on atmospheric CO2 and δ13CO2, however, are marginal. Thus, the GBR was not contributing to the last deglacial δ13CO2 minimum at ∼12.4 ka.
Variability of Sea‐Surface Magnetic Anomalies at Ultraslow Spreading Centers: Consequence of Detachment Faulting and Contrasted Magmatism?
Authors: Zhou F. , Dyment J.
Published: February 2022

The capacity of oceanic crust to record geomagnetic polarity reversals makes sea‐surface magnetic anomalies an essential tool to study plate tectonics. The anomalies are usually well‐defined at magmatic spreading centers, but are distorted and eventually disappear on magma‐poor mid‐ocean ridges such as the ultraslow Southwest Indian Ridge (SWIR), making their interpretation difficult. We attribute the variability of the SWIR sea‐surface magnetic anomalies to the alternance of magmatic spreading and detachment faulting. A three‐layer magnetic model is used to simulate the influence of such an alternance on the sea‐surface magnetic anomalies. Conversely, observed magnetic profiles at the SWIR are modeled to unravel their off‐axis crustal structure and past mode of spreading. The intruding gabbro bodies on the footwall of detachment faults play a major role in explaining the variability of sea‐surface magnetic anomalies at slow and ultraslow spreading ridges.