bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Detection Using Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Boughattas Naouel , Jabnoun Hanen
Published: June 2022

Some diseases are characterized by persistent deficits in brain activity. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder. It appears in early childhood and evolves throughout life and needs to be detected early to accelerate the treatment and recovery process. These deficits may be detected using medical imaging techniques. In this paper, we present machine learning algorithms allowing to detect peoples with ASD from normal peoples. We used data from the ABIDE dataset. We tested 3 algorithms: Support Vector Machines (SVM), Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) and Convolutional Neural Network (CNN). The best result was obtained using CNN algorithm with an accuracy equal to 95%.
Ant Colony Optimization with BrainSeg3D Protocol for Multiple Sclerosis Lesion Detection
Authors: Bouzidi Dalenda , Ghozzi Fahmi , Fakhfakh Ahmed
Published: June 2022

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has quickly established itself as the reference imaging tool for the management of patients suffering from multiple sclerosis (MS), both for the diagnosis and the follow-up of the evolution and evaluation of the impact of new therapies.

The treatment of multiple sclerosis does not cure the disease, but it slows its progression and can help to space out attacks. In this paper, tumor segmentation is treated as a problem of classification using the Ant Colony optimization algorithm (ACO) combined with a proposed protocol based on BrainSeg3D tools. Many studies and many existing approaches tend the multiple sclerosis (MS) which is a chronic inflammatory anomaly of the central nervous system.

The aim of this work is to evaluate and to verify the effectiveness of the proposed protocol on a public longitudinal database which contains 20 MS patients. This study is concerned with comparing these results against the ground truth performed by two experts and against other methods namely Dissimilarity Map (DM) creation and segmentation in terms of Dice Similarity Coefficient (DSC).
Mask Detection Using IoT - A Comparative Study of Various Learning Models
Authors: Meddaoui Mohamed Amine , Erritali Mohammed , Madani Youness , Sailhan Françoise
Published: June 2022

Wearing a mask is an effective measure that prevents the spread of respiratory droplets into the air and thereby curtails the dissemination of coronavirus. Unfortunately, despite the proven effectiveness, the idea of wearing a face mask has difficulty being accepted by part of the population. To address this significant health concern, we present a monitoring system that automatically detects whether a mask is put appropriately over a face. The system annotates the videos that are provided by cameras. In this article, we present a comparative study of machine learning models (i.e., SVM, RNN, LSTM, CNN, auto-encoder, MobileNetV2, Net-B3, VGG-16, VGG-19, Resnet-152).
Novel Interactive BRAINTEASER Tools for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Management
Authors: Gonzalez-Martinez Sergio , Cabrera-Umpiérrez María Fernanda , Ottaviano Manuel , Urošević Vladimir , Vojičić Nikola , Spasojević Stefan , Milićević Ognjen
Published: June 2022

The presented demonstrated working tools in the initial version constitute the foundation of the novel ALS and MS management and monitoring, leveraging extended IoT sensing and emerging instruments infrastructure, and a basis for integration of more advanced and effective AI models (in development) for disease progression prediction, patient stratification and ambiental exposure assessment.
Annotation Systems in the Medical Domain: A Literature Review
Authors: Mannai Zayneb , Kalboussi Anis , Kacem Ahmed Hadj
Published: June 2022

In the literature, a wide number of annotation systems in the e-health sector have been implemented. These systems are distinguished by a number of aspects. In fact, each of these systems is based on a different paradigm, resulting in a jumbled and confused vision. The purpose of this study is to categorize medical annotation systems in order to provide a standardized overview. To accomplish this, we combed through twenty years’ worth of scientific literature on annotation systems. Then, we utilized five filters to determine which systems would proceed to the classification phase. The following filters have been chosen: accessible, free, web-based or stand-alone, easily installable, functional, availability of documentation. The classification step is performed on systems that evaluate “true” for all of these filters. This classification is based on three modules: the publication module, the general information module and the functional module. This research gave us the chance to draw attention to the issues that healthcare professionals may face when using these systems in their regular work.
SAATHI: An Urdu Virtual Assistant for Elderly Aging in Place
Authors: Kumar Anand , Haider Ghani , Khan Maheen , Khan Rida Zahid , Raza Syeda Saleha
Published: June 2022

With the rise of the digital age, life has become a lot easier for the vast majority of the population. However, the ever-increasing elderly population has suffered, especially in countries like Pakistan, where limited accessibility to technology, often due to language barriers, hinders elderly from reaping technological benefits. In this paper, an Urdu virtual assistant application is proposed which provides an intuitive and empathetic platform for the elderly in Pakistan that helps them perform essential tasks such as reminding them of their medications, organising their work, getting daily news highlights, and connecting them with their loved ones. It also provides entertainment in the form of user-specified video playlists or by positively engaging them in conversations on various topics.
Toward a Trip Planner Adapted to Older Adults Context: Mobilaînés Project
Authors: Abdulrazak Bessam , Tahir Sahar , Maraoui Souhail , Provencher Véronique , Baillargeon Dany
Published: June 2022

Mobility is essential for older adults to keep a good level of socialization, health and well-being. Still, aging is often accompanied by multiple mobility-related challenges. Hence, these mobility limitations make travel and use of public transport a big challenge. Numerous mobility trip planner tools can be found now days. However, they are not adapted to older adults’ needs and preferences. We discuss in this paper our attempt to develop a one-stop platform to help older adults in their mobility where, when, and how they want. We introduce our co-creation approach, our software architecture, as well as our first prototype.
Beyond the Wall oder: Was hat die Wissenschaft mit Game of Thrones zu tun?
Authors: Müller Thomas
Published: June 2022

Die wissenschaftliche Beschäftigung mit dem pop-kulturellen Phänomen Game of Thrones ist keine Ausnahmeerscheinung. Unterschiedliche Wissenschaftsdisziplinen haben Buch und Serie schon lange für sich entdeckt. Das liegt nicht zuletzt daran, dass Game of Thrones wegen der vielen Anleihen an unsere Realität für Forschung und Lehre interessant ist. Der vorliegende Beitrag geht drei Ausprägungen des Verhältnisses zwischen dem Medienphänomen Game of Thrones und der Wissenschaft nach (Wissenschaft über, anhand und in Game of Thrones).
I-jettiness with jet axis at O(αs) in deep inelastic scattering
Authors: Chu Zexuan , Wang Yunlu , Ee June-Haak , Chen Jinhui , Kang Daekyoung
Published: June 2022

Abstract

We present O(αs) analytic predictions for event shape 1-jettiness τ1 distribution aiming measurements in deep inelastic scattering process at future Electron Ion Colliders. The result depends on conventional variables x and Q as well as on τ1 and is relatively compact and easy to implement for numerical calculation. Three different choices of axis, with respect to which τ1 is measured are considered in the Breit frame. The first is the one optimally adjusted to minimize τ1 and the second and third are taken from anti-kT and Centauro jet algorithms defined with a jet radius parameter R, respectively. We find that the first and second give the same result at this order and are independent of R, while the third depends on the radius. This fixed-order result provides a nonsingular contribution to be combined with a singular log-resummed contribution to give the full spectrum in τ1 space and also shows how fixed-order and resummation regions change as a function of x and Q.
Nonresonant searches for axion-like particles in vector boson scattering processes at the LHC
Authors: Bonilla J. , Brivio I. , Machado-Rodríguez J. , de Trocóniz J. F.
Published: June 2022

Abstract

We propose a new search for Axion-Like Particles (ALPs), targeting Vector Boson Scattering (VBS) processes at the LHC. We consider nonresonant ALP-mediated VBS, where the ALP participates as an off-shell mediator. This process occurs whenever the ALP is too light to be produced resonantly, and it takes advantage of the derivative nature of ALP interactions with the electroweak Standard Model bosons. We study the production of ZZ, Zγ, W±γ, W±Z and W±W± pairs with large diboson invariant masses in association with two jets. Working in a gauge-invariant framework, upper limits on ALP couplings to electroweak bosons are obtained from a reinterpretation of Run 2 public CMS VBS analyses. The constraints inferred on ALP couplings to ZZ, Zγ and W±W± pairs are very competitive for ALP masses up to 100 GeV. They have the advantage of being independent of the ALP coupling to gluons and of the ALP decay width. Simple projections for LHC Run 3 and HL-LHC are also calculated, demonstrating the power of future dedicated analyses at ATLAS and CMS.
Bone defect treatment: does the type and properties of the spacer affect the induction of Masquelet membrane? Evidence today
Authors: Liodakis Emmanouil , Giannoudis Vassilis P. , Sehmisch Stephan , Jha Animesh , Giannoudis Peter V.
Published: June 2022

Purpose

High clinical success rates have been reported with the Masquelet technique in the treatment of traumatic bone loss. An increasing number of studies suggest that various factors can influence the properties of induced membranes. Goal of this systematic review is to answer the following questions: (1) which are the ideal spacer properties (material, surface topography, antibiotic supplementation) to booster the quality and osteogenic potential of induced membranes? (2) what is the ideal time to perform the second-stage operation?

Methods

A systematic search using the keywords “((Masquelet) OR (Induced Periosteum)) AND ((Spacer) OR (Time))” was performed in PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library according to PRISMA guidelines. Studies published up to the 23rd of February 2022 were included and assessed independently by two reviewers.

Results

Thirteen animal and 1 clinical studies were identified to address the above questions. Spacer materials used were PMMA, silicone, titanium, polypropylene, PVA, PCL and calcium sulfate. With the exception of PVA sponges, all solid materials could induce membranes. Low union rates have been reported with titanium and rough surfaced spacers. Scraping of the inner surface of the IM also increased bony union rates. In terms of the ideal timing to perform the second-stage evidence suggests that membranes older than 8 weeks continue to have regenerative capacities similar to younger ones.

Conclusion

Membranes induced by smooth PMMA spacers loaded with low concentrations of antibiotics showed powerful osteogenic properties. Other materials such as Polypropylene or Calcium sulfate can also be used with good results. Despite current recommendation to perform the second stage operation in 4–8 weeks, membranes older than 8 weeks seem to have similar regenerative capacities to younger ones.
Precision prognostics for the development of complications in diabetes
Authors: Schiborn Catarina , Schulze Matthias B.
Published: June 2022

Individuals with diabetes face higher risks for macro- and microvascular complications than their non-diabetic counterparts. The concept of precision medicine in diabetes aims to optimise treatment decisions for individual patients to reduce the risk of major diabetic complications, including cardiovascular outcomes, retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy and overall mortality. In this context, prognostic models can be used to estimate an individual’s risk for relevant complications based on individual risk profiles. This review aims to place the concept of prediction modelling into the context of precision prognostics. As opposed to identification of diabetes subsets, the development of prediction models, including the selection of predictors based on their longitudinal association with the outcome of interest and their discriminatory ability, allows estimation of an individual’s absolute risk of complications. As a consequence, such models provide information about potential patient subgroups and their treatment needs. This review provides insight into the methodological issues specifically related to the development and validation of prediction models for diabetes complications. We summarise existing prediction models for macro- and microvascular complications, commonly included predictors, and examples of available validation studies. The review also discusses the potential of non-classical risk markers and omics-based predictors. Finally, it gives insight into the requirements and challenges related to the clinical applications and implementation of developed predictions models to optimise medical decision making.

Graphical abstract
A new standard for accident simulations for self-driving vehicles: Can we use Waymo’s results from accident simulations?
Authors: Lundgren Björn
Published: June 2022

Recent simulations by Scanlon et al. showed seemingly spectacular results for the Waymo self-driving vehicle in simulations of real accident situations. In this paper, it is argued that the selection criteria for accident situations must be modified in accordance with the relevant policy alternatives. While Scanlon et al. compare Waymo with old human-driven vehicles, it is argued here that the relevant policy question is whether we ought to use self-driven vehicles or human-driven vehicles in the future, which means that we need to consider whether other technological solutions, which are available but not broadly used in human-driven vehicles, could result in human-driven vehicles managing to avoid the same accidents. In this article, a proposal for a new standard of selection criteria is made.
Safety of sequential immune checkpoint inhibitors after prior immune therapy
Authors: Awidi Muhammad , Connell Brendan , Johnson Delaney , Craven Isabel , Ranjit Rojer , Gil Brigitte , Dal’Bo Natalie , Maher Lewena , Daves Seanna Reilly , McDonald Stephanie , Gunturu Krishna S.
Published: June 2022

Background

The use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) has transformed cancer treatment. Subsequent ICI use has become increasingly common following disease progression. We aim to evaluate the safety and tolerability of the sequential ICI treatment modality.

Methods

Retrospective review of confirmed carcinoma from January 2014 to December 2018. Patients were categorized into “initial ICI arm” and “sequential ICI arm” defined as patients receiving single, dual or chemo-immunotherapy ICI following an initial ICI regimen. Primary outcome was the development of a new or recurrent immune related adverse event (irAE) during sequential therapy. Secondary outcomes were the number of cycles prior to the development of irAE and grade of irAE.

Results

A total of 483 patients received ICI during the timeframe. Of those, 22 patients received sequential ICI. The diagnoses included ten lung cancer, seven melanoma, four renal cell carcinoma and one bladder cancer. 16 patients received single agent ICI following the initial ICI, three patients received dual ICI following the initial ICI, one patient received chemotherapy-immunotherapy following initial ICI, and two patients received chemo-immunotherapy after dual ICI. Four patients developed new irAE and one patient developed the same irAE on sequential treatment. A higher proportion of patients experienced grade 3 irAE in the sequential arm compared to the initial ICI arm (p = 0.03). No statistical difference was found between the development of irAE and the number of cycles prior to development of irAE in either treatment groups (p = 0.5).

Conclusion

Our data shows overall safety of sequencing ICI when close monitoring was employed.
Mixed-Mode Fracture Modelling of the Near-Wellbore Interaction Between Hydraulic Fracture and Natural Fracture
Authors: Xi Xun , Shipton Zoe K. , Kendrick Jackie E. , Fraser‑Harris Andrew , Mouli-Castillo Julien , Edlmann Katriona , McDermott Christopher I. , Yang Shangtong
Published: June 2022

The interaction between hydraulic fractures (HF) and natural fractures (NF) is one of the most fundamental phenomena in hydraulic fracturing. The near-wellbore interaction between HF and NF significantly affects fracking-related operations including the injected fluid flow, proppant transport and well productivity. However, the nature of fracturing modes, combined with hydro-mechanical coupling, poses great difficulties and challenges in addressing this problem. Literature review suggests that little research has been undertaken on near-wellbore interaction, especially considering the fully coupled hydro-mechanical mixed-mode fracturing process. This paper develops a new fracture model incorporating the Mohr–Coulomb criterion with the cohesive crack model. The model is implemented into ABAQUS solver by in-house FORTRAN subroutines. The rock matrix and cohesive crack interfaces are both coupled with fluid flow. The developed model is then validated by comparing the results with analytical solutions and experimental results. Moreover, the effects of approach angle, NF location, in situ stress, cohesion strength and friction angle of NF, and flow rate on the near-wellbore interaction are investigated. Three interaction modes, i.e., cross, deflect and offset, are reproduced through the numerical method. The crack deflection into NF is a shear-dominated mixed-mode fracture. A high injection pressure in the wellbore tends to drive the HF to cross a NF located close to the wellbore. The smaller the cohesion strength and friction angle of NF is, the larger the offsetting ratio is. A low injection flow rate can help activate natural fractures near the wellbore when intersected by HF.
A Qualitative Study to Explore the Employment Experiences and Perspectives of Women Living with Multiple Sclerosis in the UK
Authors: Railton Cathie , Jefferson Laura , Taylor Jo
Published: June 2022

Employment is a key determinant of health, yet up to 80% of individuals with multiple sclerosis stop work within 15 years of diagnosis. The unpredictable nature of MS, both on a daily basis, and longer term means that maintaining employment can be difficult. Multiple sclerosis affects women disproportionately (> 60% of cases) and they often experience greater workplace challenges, yet few studies explore this. This study aimed to deepen understanding of the employment experiences and perspectives of women with multiple sclerosis to help inform future policy developments and care. A descriptive phenomenological approach was used involving thematic analysis from fourteen in-depth semi-structured interviews (data collected 2020). The inclusion criteria were adult women diagnosed with multiple sclerosis living in the UK who have current or previous experiences of employment. Seven themes were identified: Multiple sclerosis symptoms, workplace support, adjustments in the workplace, prioritisation of employment, making compromises, time and informal networks. These themes offer a descriptive account of the participant’s experiences of work, how they experience their multiple sclerosis in relation to employment and some of the constraints and enablers to work. The findings highlight the importance of both individual and broader socio-environmental factors to successful employment outcomes. Tailored community support for these women, such as that provided by nurses, was considered central. There is a need for better collaboration at a policy level between government departments and for more research into women with chronic conditions, to further explore the relationship between different variables.
Phosphodiesterase (PDE) III inhibitor, Cilostazol, improved memory impairment in aluminum chloride-treated rats: modulation of cAMP/CREB pathway
Authors: Khalifa Mona , Abdelsalam Rania M. , Safar Marwa M. , Zaki Hala F.
Published: June 2022

The most prevalent type of dementia is Alzheimer's disease (AD), which is currently incurable. Existing treatments for Alzheimer's disease, such as acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, are only effective for symptom relief. Disease-modifying medications for Alzheimer's disease are desperately required, given the enormous burdens that the disease places on individuals and communities. Phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors are gaining a lot of attention in the research community because of their potential in treating age-related cognitive decline. Cilostazol is a selective PDE III inhibitor used as antiplatelet agent through cAMP response element-binding (CREB) protein phosphorylation pathway (cAMP/CREB). The neuroprotective effect of cilostazol in AD-like cognitive decline in rats was investigated in this study. After 2 months of intraperitoneal administration of 10 mg/kg aluminum chloride, Morris water maze and Y-maze (behavioral tests) were performed. After that, histological and biochemical examinations of the hippocampal region were carried out. Aluminum chloride-treated rats showed histological, biochemical, and behavioral changes similar to Alzheimer's disease. Cilostazol improved rats' behavioral and histological conditions, raised neprilysin level while reduced levels of amyloid-beta protein and phosphorylated tau protein. It also decreased the hippocampal levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, nuclear factor-kappa B, FAS ligand, acetylcholinesterase content, and malondialdehyde. These outcomes demonstrate the protective activity of cilostazol versus aluminum-induced memory impairment.
Prevalence of Viral Hepatitis in Unselected, Consecutively Enrolled Patients Hospitalised for SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Dettori Silvia , Russo Chiara , Mora Sara , Giacomini Mauro , Taramasso Lucia , Dentone Chiara , Vena Antonio , Bassetti Matteo , Di Biagio Antonio
Published: June 2022

Diagnosing people living with chronic viral hepatitis is challenging due to the absence of symptoms as long as liver decompensated cirrhosis come out. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the prevalence of HBV and/or HCV infections in a non-selected population, hospitalised for SARS-CoV-2 infection in a tertiary care hospital in Northern Italy. During the study period 1,429 patients were admitted to hospital for SARS-CoV-2 infection, serologic tests for HBV and/or HCV were available for 382 (27%) patients and 3 were excluded due to their previous known serologic status. Among 379 patients, 235 (62%) were male, median age was 70 years (range 21–103), 360 (95%) were Caucasian. Among them, 372/379 (98%) were screened for HBsAg, 320/379 (84%) for HBcAb. HBsAg was positive in 2/372 (0.5%, 95% CI 0.0006–0.02) patients (only in one HBV-DNA was performed that was negative), while HBcAb was found positive in 55/320 (17%, 95% CI 0.13–0.22). Among 370/379 (98%) patients screened for HCV, 11/370 (3%, 95% CI 0.02–0.05) had positive HCV-Ab. Five out of 11 (45%) were tested for HCV-RNA that resulted positive in two patients (0.5%, 95% CI 0.0006–0.02). Considering this data, even though the screening was performed in only 27% of study population, a tailored screening in people with known risk factors for hepatitis might be preferable to universal screening in low prevalence areas. Also a prompt diagnostic workout should begin in case of clinical or laboratory suspicion of hepatitis and in those starting immunosuppressive treatments.
Is there a dose-response relationship? Investigating the functional form between COVID-19 incidence rates and life satisfaction in a multilevel framework
Authors: Bittmann Felix
Published: June 2022

While there is plenty of research linking the effects of the global COVID-19 pandemic to a drastic reduction of life satisfaction in the population, there is little information on the functional form of this relationship. Until now, one could suspect that this association is linear and a higher number of COVID-19 infections in a region leads to a continuous decline of satisfaction. However, there are reasons to assume that this interrelation is indeed more complex and deserves further attention. To resolve this question, high-quality panel data of the first wave of COVID-19 from Germany are analysed in a fixed-effect multilevel framework. With information from more than 6,000 respondents (after imputation) nested in 339 federal districts, we estimate linear models with higher-order terms up to the fifth degree of median COVID-19 incidence rates and random intercepts for districts to describe the functional form. The results indicate that even regions with very low incidences are affected and a linear decline of satisfaction is only apparent for rather low incidence levels, quickly reaching a plateau, which is then quite constant, even for higher incidence levels. These findings indicate that at least in rich and industrialized countries like Germany, assuming a strictly linear relation between incidences and change of satisfaction is not appropriate.
Computational analysis of heat transfer augmentation and thermodynamic irreversibility of hybrid nanofluids in a tube fitted with classical and elliptical‑cut twisted tape inserts
Authors: Khfagi Amir Mohamed , Hunt Graeme , Paul Manosh C. , Karimi Nader
Published: June 2022

This work investigates heat transfer and entropy generation of a turbulent flow of an Al2O3–Cu/water hybrid nanofluid in a plain tube (PT) with classical (TPT) and elliptical‑cut twisted tape (TECT) inserts. The heat transfer and pressure drop are investigated numerically at Re (7000–15,000), mass concentration (1–4%), and the inlet temperature of the fluid (300 K). Further, the total entropy generation and Bejan number are examined at Re = 7000 and a mass concentration of 4%. The obtained results indicate that heat transfer can be intensified when inserting classical and elliptical‑cut twisted tape. In addition, an increase in the thermal conductivity of the fluid may cause a slight increase in the heat transfer coefficient. Moreover, heat transfer and thermal performance factors increase when the mass concentration of nanoparticles increases. The Nusselt numbers for TECT and TPT are 1.7 and 1.57 times higher than those for PT, respectively. The Nusselt number and thermal performance factor of hybrid nanofluid are greatest at roughly 195 and 1.9, respectively, showing 3.9% and 7.73% improvement compared to CuO/water nanofluid at Re = 7000. The analysis of the generation of entropy is expressed as a function of thermal and frictional contributions. The results indicate the existence of a minimum entropy generation for each type of tubes for Al2O3–Cu/water hybrid nanofluid. Total entropy generation analysis demonstrates that thermal entropy generation dominates at high heat flux. Moreover, increasing the nanoparticles decreases the generation of total entropy, which is ascribed to the thermal conductivity increment. In addition, the rate of total entropy generation declines as the vortex flow increases.
Reflexes of exponent movement in inflectional morphology
Authors: Gleim Daniel , Müller Gereon , Privizentseva Mariia , Tebay Sören E.
Published: June 2022

Seemingly non-local phonological operations triggered by inflectional exponents have been observed in a number of languages. Focussing on de-spirantization in Barwar Aramaic, accent shift in Lithuanian,ni-insertion in Quechua,rukirule application in Sanskrit, and vowel harmony in Kazakh, we argue that these phenomena should be analyzed as strictly local phonological reflexes of movement in a pre-syntactic autonomous morphological component. Such morphological movement is shown to arise without further assumptions under the approach to inflectional morphology based on Harmonic Serialism (McCarthy 2016) developed in Müller 2020. Here, each morphological operation immediately gives rise to an optimization procedure, morphological structure-building is subject to simple alignment constraints, and counter-cyclic operations are precluded. Against this background, phonological reflexes of movement are predicted to show up when a potentially complete word triggers a phonological cycle, which is then followed by morphological movement. Finally, we argue that constraint-driven morphological movement is superior to alternative accounts based on (i) non-local phonology, (ii) base-derivative faithfulness, (iii) phonological movement, (iv) counter-cyclic operations (interfixation, lowering, local dislocation), (v) syntactic movement, and (vi) strata.
The economics of PIPEs, revisited
Authors: Momtaz Paul P.
Published: June 2022

This paper examines rent sharing in private investments in public equity (PIPEs) between newly public firms and private investors. The evidence suggests highly asymmetric rent sharing. Newly public firms earn a negative return of up to −15% in the first post-PIPE year, while investors benefit due to the ability to dictate transaction terms. The results are economically relevant because newly public firms are, at least in recent years, more likely to tap private rather than public markets for follow-on financing shortly after the initial public offering (IPO), and because the results for newly public firms contrast with those for the broad PIPE market in Lim et al. (2021). The study also contributes to the PIPE literature by offering an integrative view of competing theories of the cross-section of post-PIPE stock returns. We simultaneously test proxies for corporate governance, asymmetric information, bargaining power, and managerial entrenchment. While all explanations have univariate predictive power for the post-PIPE performance, only the proxies for corporate governance and asymmetric information are robust in ceteris-paribus tests.
Callout analysis in relation to wild birds in a tropical city: implications for urban species management
Authors: Hinchcliffe Danielle Louisa , Young Robert J. , Teixeira Camila P.
Published: June 2022

Urbanisation is changing landscapes at an unprecedented rate, which consequently changes species compositions. We investigate problems faced by urban birds in a neotropical city by analysing the responses made to callouts by the environmental police of Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil from 2002 to 2008. The environment police responded to two types of callouts: solicitation, where a person called to report an issue (n = 560); and reports of hurt or injured birds (n = 399). On average, three callouts per week were made relating to urban birds, with more than half concerning birds of prey. There were significantly more callouts in the wet season, coinciding with peak breeding times for most endemic Brazilian avifauna. We found no effect of caller gender, age or associated socioeconomic factors. Most callouts resulted in birds being forwarded on to Government-managed institute for processing wildlife (n = 584). Only a relatively small number of cases resulted in the birds being released into forested areas within the city (n = 152). Sick birds were sent to veterinary clinics (n = 136) and be released if successfully treated. We suggest how this information could be used to improve urban bird species management in neotropical cities. Our data evidences different guilds to have different relationships with people and birds of prey are less well-understood. The rise in callouts during breeding supports the need for better informed species management, and avoidance of a “one size fits all” approach.
Biomarker development for neonicotinoid exposure in soil under interaction with the synergist piperonyl butoxide in Folsomia candida
Authors: Bakker Ruben , Ekelmans Astrid , Xie Liyan , Vooijs Riet , Roelofs Dick , Ellers Jacintha , Hoedjes Katja M. , van Gestel Cornelis A. M.
Published: June 2022

Pesticide toxicity is typically assessed by exposing model organisms to individual compounds and measuring effects on survival and reproduction. These tests are time-consuming, labor-intensive, and do not accurately capture the effect of pesticide mixtures. Moreover, it is unfeasible to screen the nearly infinite combinations of mixtures for synergistic effects on model organisms. Therefore, reliable molecular indicators of pesticide exposure have to be identified, i.e., biomarkers. These biomarkers can form the basis of rapid and economical screening procedures to assess the toxicity of pesticides even under synergistic interaction with other pollutants. In this study, we screened the expression patterns of eight genes for suitability as a biomarker for neonicotinoid exposure in the soil ecotoxicological modelFolsomia candida(springtails). Springtails were exposed to the neonicotinoids imidacloprid and thiacloprid either alone or with various levels of piperonyl butoxide (PBO), which inhibits cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYPs): a common point of synergistic interaction between neonicotinoid and other pesticides. First, we confirmed PBO as a potency enhancer for neonicotinoid toxicity to springtail fecundity, and then used it as a tool to confirm biomarker robustness. We identified two genes that are reliably indicative for neonicotinoid exposure even under metabolic inhibition of CYPs by PBO,nicotinic acetylcholine receptor–subunit alpha 1(nAchR) andsodium-coupled monocarboxylate transporter(SMCT). These results can form the basis for developing high-throughput screening procedures for neonicotinoid exposure in varying mixture compositions.
Reducing or Widening the Gap? How the Educational Aspirations and Expectations of Turkish and Majority Families Develop During Lower Secondary Education in Germany
Authors: Neumeyer Sebastian , Olczyk Melanie , Schmaus Miriam , Will Gisela
Published: June 2022

Differences in educational goals between immigrants and the majority population have often been analysed at specific stages in their educational career. Little is known about longitudinal trajectories and the development of group differences over time. By applying common explanations (immigrant optimism, relative status maintenance, blocked opportunities, ethnic networks and information deficits), we derived specific hypotheses about the development of educational aspirations and expectations over time, focusing on families from Turkey. We drew upon data from the National Educational Panel Study to assess how aspirations and expectations for the highest school degree develop over the course of lower secondary education in Germany’s stratified school system. Applying a multi-actor perspective, we observed trajectories reported by students and their parents. First, we analysed the development of group differences. In line with prior research, we found higher aspirations and expectations for Turkish students and their parents at the beginning of lower secondary education in Germany once social background and achievement differences were controlled for. Origin gaps for students’ expectations and parents’ aspirations decreased over the course of lower secondary education. Second, intraindividual trajectories of aspirations and expectations revealed that parents of Turkish origin were more likely to experience downwards adaptations than majority parents, whereas students of Turkish origin were more likely to hold stable high aspirations and expectations than majority students.
The many faces of Post-Development: alternatives to development in Tanzania, Iran and Haiti
Authors: Schöneberg Julia , Haudenschild Daniel , Darvishi Hadi , Momeni Somayeh , Ziai Aram
Published: June 2022

Post-Development, a body of transitional imaginaries, is not homogenous, neither in its critique, nor in the alternatives proposed. Given that the term ‘development’ is already highly contentious, the question of what ‘alternativestodevelopment’ might be, becomes difficult to respond to. In this article, we argue that Post-Development can assume many faces that are highly dependent upon their conceptual and geographical contexts. In analysing practices of resistance, contestation and subversion in Tanzania, Iran and Haiti we investigate in what ways various forms of peasant and community organising can be considered transformative and non-hegemonic. In exploring their common ground, we attempt to examine in what ways strategies of reciprocity, solidarity and commoning in different geographical locations and contexts can be understood as means of survival and/or as efforts to provide alternative pathways for societal and economic transformation.
Robotic operations in urgent general surgery: a systematic review
Authors: Reinisch Alexander , Liese Juliane , Padberg Winfried , Ulrich Frank
Published: June 2022

Robotically assisted operations are the state of the art in laparoscopic general surgery. They are established predominantly for elective operations. Since laparoscopy is widely used in urgent general surgery, the significance of robotic assistance in urgent operations is of interest. Currently, there are few data on robotic-assisted operations in urgent surgery. The aim of this study was to collect and classify the existing studies. A two-stage, PRISMA-compliant literature search of PubMed and the Cochrane Library was conducted. We analyzed all articles on robotic surgery associated with urgent general surgery resp. acute surgical diseases of the abdomen. Gynecological and urological diseases so as vascular surgery, except mesenterial ischemia, were excluded. Studies and case reports/series published between 1980 and 2021 were eligible for inclusion. In addition to a descriptive synopsis, various outcome parameters were systematically recorded. Fifty-two studies of operations for acute appendicitis and cholecystitis, hernias and acute conditions of the gastrointestinal tract were included. The level of evidence is low. Surgical robots in the narrow sense and robotic camera mounts were used. All narrow-sense robots are nonautonomous systems; in 82%, the Da Vinci® system was used. The most frequently published emergency operations were urgent cholecystectomies (30 studies, 703 patients) followed by incarcerated hernias (9 studies, 199 patients). Feasibility of robotic operations was demonstrated for all indications. Neither robotic-specific problems nor extensive complication rates were reported. Various urgent operations in general surgery can be performed robotically without increased risk. The available data do not allow a final evidence-based assessment.
Screening for Biomarkers Associated with Left Ventricular Function During Follow-up After Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Christersson Christina , Baron Tomasz , Flachskampf Frank , Lindhagen Lars , Lindahl Bertil , Siegbahn Agneta
Published: June 2022

A proportion of patients with the acute coronary syndrome (ACS) will suffer progressive remodeling of the left ventricular (LV). The aim was to screen for important biomarkers from a large-scale protein profiling in 420 ACS patients and define biomarkers associated with reduced LV function early and 1 year after the ACS. Transferrin receptor protein 1 and NT-proBNP were associated with LV function early and after 1 year, whereas osteopontin and soluble ST2 were associated with LV function in the early phase and, tissue-type plasminogen activator after 1 year. Fatty-acid-binding protein and galectin 3 were related to worse GLS but not to LVEF 1 year after the ACS. Proteins involved in remodeling and iron transport in cardiomyocytes were related to worse LV function after ACS. Biomarkers for energy metabolism and fibrosis were exclusively related to worse LV function by GLS. Studies on the functions of these proteins might add knowledge to the biological processes involved in heart failure in long term after ACS.
Staphylococcus epidermidis WF2R11 Suppresses PM2.5-Mediated Activation of the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor in HaCaT Keratinocytes
Authors: Lee Eulgi , Ahn Hyeok , Park Shinyoung , Kim Gihyeon , Kim Hyun , Noh Myung-Giun , Kim Yunjae , Yeon Jae-sung , Park Hansoo
Published: June 2022

The skin supports a diverse microbiome whose imbalance is related to skin inflammation and diseases. Exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5), a major air pollutant, can adversely affect the skin microbiota equilibrium. In this study, the effect and mechanism of PM2.5 exposure in HaCaT keratinocytes were investigated. PM2.5 stimulated the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) in HaCaT cells, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction and intrinsic mitochondrial apoptosis. We observed that the culture medium derived from a particular skin microbe, Staphylococcus epidermidis WF2R11, remarkably reduced oxidative stress in HaCaT cells caused by PM2.5-mediated activation of the AhR pathway. Staphylococcus epidermidis WF2R11 also exhibited inhibition of ROS-induced inflammatory cytokine secretion. Herein, we demonstrated that S. epidermidis WF2R11 could act as a suppressor of AhRs, affect cell proliferation, and inhibit apoptosis. Our results highlight the importance of the clinical application of skin microbiome interventions in the treatment of inflammatory skin diseases.
Vulnerability Analysis in Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) — Indications of Intersecting Vulnerable Positions in a National Survey Among Young People in Sweden
Authors: Schindele Anna ChuChu , Areskoug Josefsson Kristina , Lindroth Malin
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) policies use gender as the foremost social determinant to explain vulnerability in relation to SRHR among young people. Therefore, our aim was to explore intersecting vulnerable positions within the three SRHR-related outcome areas: unsafe sex, sex against one’s will, and transactional sex, among young people aged 16–29.

Methods

The data set is from a randomised, cross-sectional, and population-based SRHR survey conducted in Sweden in 2015, and the 7755 respondents imply a response rate (26%) in line with the power estimations. How gender intersects with five other social positions, i.e. social determinants (sexual identity, transgender experience, perceived economy, being foreign-born, and social welfare recipiency), was explored through a stepwise descriptive intersecting vulnerability analysis exemplified through three outcome variables: unsafe sex, sex against one’s will, and transactional sex.

Results

Gender intersects with other social determinants and creates vulnerable positions in SRHR-related outcomes. The most vulnerable positions within each of the three outcome variables were the following: (1) for unsafe sex: being a man and homosexual; (2) for sex against one’s will: being a woman and bisexual; and (3) for transactional sex: being a man and having transgender experience.

Conclusions

Despite limitations, the descriptive intersecting vulnerability analysis indicates how gender intersects with other social determinants and generates multiple vulnerable positions in relation to SRHR.

Policy Implications

The results can be of interest in future studies on vulnerability and inform policies that intend to fulfil the intention of leaving no one behind, as stated in the Agenda 2030.
Prediction of Collapse Pressure of Submarine Pipelines in A Wide Range of Diameter-Thickness Ratio
Authors: Xu Wan-hai , Pang Tao , Yan Shu-ming , Zhai Li-bin , Kang You-wei , Zhang Shu-hai
Published: June 2022

Submarine pipelines play an important role in offshore oil and gas development. A touchy issue in pipeline design and application is how to avoid the local collapse of pipelines under external pressure. The pipe diameter-thickness ratio D/t is one of the key factors that determine the local critical collapse pressure of the submarine pipelines. Based on the pipeline collapse experiment and finite element simulation, this paper explores the pressure-bearing capacity of the pipeline under external pressure in a wide range of diameter-thickness ratio D/t. Some interesting and important phenomena have been observed and discussed. In the range of 16<D/t<80, both DNV specification and finite element simulation can predict the collapse pressure of pipeline quite well; in the range of 10<D/t<16, the DNV specification is conservative compared with the experimental results, while the finite element simulation results are slightly larger than the experimental results. Further parameter analysis shows that compared with thin-walled pipes, improving the material grade of thick-walled pipes has higher benefits, and for thin-walled pipes, the ovality f0 should be controlled even more. In addition, combining the results of finite element simulation and model experiment, an empirical formula of critical collapse pressure for thick-walled pipelines is proposed, which is used to correct the error of DNV specification in the range of 10<D/t<16.
Incorporating energy cover crops for biogas production into agricultural systems: benefits and environmental impacts. A review
Authors: Launay Camille , Houot Sabine , Frédéric Sylvain , Girault Romain , Levavasseur Florent , Marsac Sylvain , Constantin Julie
Published: June 2022

Some European countries are exploring the idea of replacing dedicated crops with energy cover crops for biogas production. Indeed, energy cover crops can generate consequential biomass without competing with food crops for land use. However, the potential benefits and impacts of this choice are not fully understood. Here, we review what is known about the consequences of energy cover crop usage by examining management regimes and digestate use, including impacts on the environment and cropping system performance. First, compared to cover crops, energy cover crops are intensively managed to produce more biomass (< 5 t DM/ha vs. up to 16 t DM/ha). Second, nitrogen is conserved during anaerobic digestion and is more readily available to crops in digestate than in cover crops residues. However, ammonia is lost via volatilization, which could reduce nitrogen use efficiency, depending on the storage conditions and application method. Third, 43–80% of the crops’ initial carbon is transformed into biogas. That said, levels of soil carbon storage may nonetheless resemble those obtained with cover crops left behind because carbon is stabilized during anaerobic digestion and the energy cover crops’ roots and stubble are left behind in the soil. Fourth, energy cover crops can act as multiservice cover crops, reducing nitrate leaching, improving soil microbial activity, and enhancing soil physical properties during the fallow period. Fifth, energy cover crop usage can have certain disservices, such as soil compaction, the need for additional inputs (e.g., irrigation, fertilization, pesticides), reduced groundwater recharge, and reduced following crop yield. In summary, expanding the usage of energy cover crops for biogas production does not seem to be an environmental threat. However, care must be taken to avoid the intensification of irrigation and lengthening growing periods to boost biomass, which could reduce food production.