bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The negative aftermath of prostate biopsy: prophylaxis, complications and antimicrobial stewardship: results of the global prevalence study of infections in urology 2010–2019
Authors: Alidjanov Jakhongir F. , Cai Tommaso , Bartoletti Riccardo , Bonkat Gernot , Bruyère Franck , Köves Béla , Kulchavenya Ekaterina , Medina-Polo José , Naber Kurt , Perepanova Tamara , Pilatz Adrian , Tandogdu Zafer , Bjerklund Johansen Truls E. , Wagenlehner Florian M.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

To evaluate and report the complications, and to analyse antimicrobial stewardship aspects following prostate biopsies (P-Bx) based on the data from a 9-year global study.

Methods

The primary outcome was to compare complications after P-Bx between patients of two cohorts: 2010–2014 and 2016–2019. Primary outcomes included symptoms of lower and severe/systemic urinary tract infection (LUTIS and SUTIS, respectively), and positive urine culture. Readmission to hospital after P-Bx, need for additional antimicrobial therapy, consumption of different antimicrobial agents for prophylaxis and therapy were evaluated. Studentsttest and chi-square test were used for comparative analyses.

Results

Outcome data were available for 1615 men. Fluoroquinolones-based prophylaxis rate increased from 72.0% in 2010–2014 to 78.6% in 2015–2019. Overall rates of complications increased from 6 to 11.7% including an increase in symptomatic complications from 4.7 to 10.2%, mainly due to an increase in LUTIS. Rates of patients seeking additional medical help in primary care after P-Bx increased from 7.4 to 14.4%; cases requiring post P-Bx antibiotic treatment increased from 6.1 to 9.7%, most of which received fluoroquinolones. Transperineal P-Bx was significantly associated with LUTIS. Following transrectal P-Bx, 2.8% developed febrile infections and 4.0% required hospitalisation. Two men (0.12%) died after transrectal P-Bx due to sepsis.

Conclusions

The rates of complications after P-Bx tended to increase in time, as well as rates of patients seeking additional medical help in the post-P-Bx period. To reduce the risk of infectious complications and to comply with the principles of antibiotic stewardship, clinicians should switch to the transperineal biopsy route.
Polyurethane cationomers containing fluorinated soft segments with hydrophobic properties
Authors: Król Piotr , Pielichowska Kinga , Król Bożena , Nowicka Katarzyna , Walczak Małgorzata , Kowal Małgorzata
Published: February 2021

The synthesis of ecological waterborne polyurethane cationomers containing fluorinated polyol (0–20 wt.%) was successfully performed. FTIR and NMR analysis results confirmed the structure of the obtained polyurethane cationomers and incorporation of fluorinated component into the polyurethane chains. Average molar mass and phase structure of the obtained PU thin films were determined based on GPC, FTIR, WAXD and SEM-EDX results. The obtained cationomers have linear structures with clearly visible microphase separation of soft and hard segment domains; the presence of fluorinated polyol changes the strength of hydrogen bonds and in consequence degree of phase separation. The activation energy of glass transition was calculated based on multi-frequency DSC data. It has been shown that the presence of soft fluorinated segments in the cationomer structure strongly influences the hydrophobic, thermal and mechanical properties of the obtained films.
Planktic foraminiferal response to an early Paleocene transient warming event and biostratigraphic implications
Authors: Bornemann André , Jehle Sofie , Lägel Friederike , Deprez Arne , Petrizzo Maria Rose , Speijer Robert P.
Published: February 2021

The Latest Danian Event (LDE, ~ 62.2 Ma) is characterized by global changes in the carbon cycle as indicated by two negative δ13C excursions of up to ~ 1‰. These δ13C shifts are accompanied by a 2–3 °C warming of both surface and deep waters based on benthic and planktic foraminiferal δ18O measurements, and the LDE has, thus, been considered as a so-called hyperthermal event. The event lasted for 200 kyr and has been identified in various ocean basins and shallow marine settings. Here, we present a compilation of data from three deep-sea cores covering the Pacific, North and South Atlantic oceans as well as a southern Tethyan shelf section to document the response of planktic foraminifera assemblages to ocean warming. In all studied successions, we observe the disappearance of the planktic foraminifer genus Praemurica on a global scale that took place close to the onset of the LDE. Moreover, on the long run, praemuricids were contemporaneously replaced by morozovellids. Both the decline of Praemurica and a temperature increase started between 200 and 260 kyr before the LDE onset and were punctuated by the LDE itself. In this paper, we propose two mechanisms that have controlled the environmental changes associated with this event, (1) increased activity of the North Atlantic Igneous Province acting on long time-scales, and (2) changes of orbital parameters resulting in insolation changes on shorter time-scales.

In contrast to a proposed muted benthic foraminiferal response, the planktic community has been substantially impacted by the LDE as indicated by changes in planktic foraminifera faunas and calcareous nannofossils. Finally, our quantitative and conventional approaches identifying stratigraphically important planktic foraminifera datum levels justify a revision of the upper Danian to lower Selandian planktic foraminifera biozonation.
Challenges and Barriers to HIV Care for Mexican Born Men Living in Chicago
Authors: Aguado Patricia , Ryerson-Espino Susan , Vergara-Rodriguez Pamela
Published: February 2021

Background: Latinx men are disproportionately impacted by HIV. Research often looks at Latinx people as a heterogeneous population. This paper describes baseline characteristics and barriers to HIV care among Mexican born men enrolled in an HIV care engagement intervention at a public health clinic in Chicago.Methods: Survey and medical chart data were collected.Results: 66 Mexican born men enrolled in the project. Over half (60%) were newly diagnosed; 40% were reengaging in care or establishing care for the first time. Participants reported significant pre and postmigration concerns including poverty, social stigma, late entry to care, and concurrent health concerns, including 47% screening positive for depression. Barriers to care and mental health concerns were significantly related to Stage 3 HIV.Discussion: More prevention and intervention research is needed to ameliorate the negative socioeconomic and health ramifications of immigration and bolster mental and sexual health, reduce HIV transmission, and increase testing, linkage and care retention.
Transport coefficients and pressure conditions for growth of ice lens in frozen soil
Authors: Kjelstrup S. , Ghoreishian Amiri S. A. , Loranger B. , Gao H. , Grimstad G.
Published: February 2021

In this paper, the transport of sub-cooled water across a partially frozen soil matrix (frozen fringe) caused by a temperature difference over the fringe, is described using non-equilibrium thermodynamics. A set of coupled transport equations of heat and mass is presented; implying that, in the frozen fringe, both driving forces of pressure and temperature gradients simultaneously contribute to transport of water and heat. The temperature-gradient-induced water flow is the main source of frost heave phenomenon that feeds the growing ice lens. It is shown that three measurable transport coefficients are adequate to model the process; permeability (also called hydraulic conductivity), thermal conductivity and a cross coupling coefficient that may be named thermodynamic frost heave coefficient. Thus, no ad hoc parameterizations are required. The definition and experimental determination of the transport coefficients are extensively discussed in the paper. The maximum pressure that is needed to stop the growth of an ice lens, called the maximum frost heave pressure, is predicted by the proposed model. Numerical results for corresponding temperature and pressure profiles are computed using available data sets from the literature. Frost heave rates are also computed and compared with the experimental results, and reasonable agreement is achieved.
Glucagon-Producing Cell Expansion in Wistar Rats. Changes to Islet Architecture After Sleeve Gastrectomy
Authors: Bancalero-delosReyes José , Camacho-Ramírez Alonso , Fernández-Vivero José , Ribelles-García Antonio , Macías-Rodríguez Manuel , Almorza-Gomar David , Carrasco-Molinillo Carmen , Mayo-Ossorio María Ángeles , Prada-Oliveira José-Arturo , Perez-Arana Gonzalo-Martín
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Many studies about bariatric surgery have analyzed the effect of sleeve gastrectomy (SG) on glucose improvement, beta-cell mass, and islet size modification. The effects of SG on the other endocrine cells of the pancreas, such as the alpha-cell population, and their regulatory mechanisms remain less studied.

Materials and Methods

We focused our work on the changes in the alpha-cell population after SG in a healthy model of Wistar rats. We measured alpha-cell mass, glucose tolerance, and insulin release after oral glucose tolerance tests and plasma glucagon secretion patterns after insulin infusion. Three Wistar rat groups were employed: SG-operated, surgical control (Sham), and fasting control.

Results

The results obtained showed significant increases in the alpha-cell population after SG. The result was an increase in beta-cell transdifferentiation; it was shown by some expressed molecules (the loss of expression of Pdx-1 and the increase in Arx and Pax6 cells/mm2 of islet). The serum results were enhanced plasma glucagon secretion pattern after insulin infusion assays and normal glucose tolerance and insulin release after OGTT.

Conclusion

We concluded that SG leads to an expansion of the alpha-cell population, at expense of beta-cell; this expansion of alpha-cells is related to transdifferentiation. Plasma glucose level was not affected due to an increased glucagon response.
Functional Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass with Fundectomy and Gastric Remnant Exploration (LRYGBfse)—a Video Vignette
Authors: Lesti Giovanni , Zappa Marco Antonio , Lesti Francesco , Bona Davide , Aiolfi Alberto
Published: February 2021

Background

The laparoscopic Roux en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) is performed worldwide and is considered by many the gold standard treatment for morbid obesity. However, the difficult access to the gastric remnant and duodenum represents intrinsic limitations. The functional laparoscopic gastric bypass with fundectomy and gastric remnant exploration (LRYGBfse) is a new technique described in attempt to overcome the limitations of the LRYGB. The purpose of this video was to demonstrate the LRYGBfse in a 48-year-old man with type II diabetes and hypertension.

Methods

An intraoperative video has been anonymized and edited to demonstrate the feasibility of LRYGBfse.

Results

The operation started with the opening of the gastrocolic ligament. Staying close to the gastric wall, the stomach is prepared up to the angle of His. After the placement of a 36-Fr orogastric probe, gastric fundectomy is completed in order to create a 30cc gastric pouch. A polytetrafluoroethylene banding (ePTFE) is placed at the gastro-gastric communication, 7cm below the cardia, and gently closed after bougie retraction. The bypass is completed by the creation of an antecolic Roux-en-Y 150cm alimentary and 150cm biliopancreatic limb.

Conclusion

The LRYGBfse is a feasible and safe technique. The possibility to endoscopically explore the excluded stomach with an easy access to the Vater’s papilla is a major advantage. Further studies are warranted to deeply explore and compare outcomes with the standard LRYGB.
Finite Rank Perturbations of Linear Relations and Matrix Pencils
Authors: Leben Leslie , Martínez Pería Francisco , Philipp Friedrich , Trunk Carsten , Winkler Henrik
Published: February 2021

We elaborate on the deviation of the Jordan structures of two linear relations that are finite-dimensional perturbations of each other. We compare their number of Jordan chains of length at least n. In the operator case, it was recently proved that the difference of these numbers is independent of n and is at most the defect between the operators. One of the main results of this paper shows that in the case of linear relations this number has to be multiplied by $$n+1$$

n
+
1

and that this bound is sharp. The reason for this behavior is the existence of singular chains. We apply our results to one-dimensional perturbations of singular and regular matrix pencils. This is done by representing matrix pencils via linear relations. This technique allows for both proving known results for regular pencils as well as new results for singular ones.
Products of Positive Operators
Authors: Contino Maximiliano , Dritschel Michael A. , Maestripieri Alejandra , Marcantognini Stefania
Published: February 2021

On finite dimensional spaces, it is apparent that an operator is the product of two positive operators if and only if it is similar to a positive operator. Here, the class $${\mathcal {L}^{+\,2}}$$

L

+

2

of bounded operators on separable infinite dimensional Hilbert spaces which can be written as the product of two bounded positive operators is studied. The structure is much richer, and connects (but is not equivalent to) quasi-similarity and quasi-affinity to a positive operator. The spectral properties of operators in $${\mathcal {L}^{+\,2}}$$

L

+

2

are developed, and membership in $${\mathcal {L}^{+\,2}}$$

L

+

2

among special classes, including algebraic and compact operators, is examined.
Cardiovascular, anthropometric, metabolic and hormonal profiling of normotensive women with polycystic ovary syndrome with and without biochemical hyperandrogenism
Authors: Kałużna Małgorzata , Krauze Tomasz , Ziemnicka Katarzyna , Wachowiak-Ochmańska Katarzyna , Kaczmarek Jolanta , Janicki Adam , Wykrętowicz Andrzej , Ruchała Marek , Guzik Przemysław
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) present with or without biochemical hyperandrogenism (HAPCOS or non-HAPCOS, respectively). Cardiometabolic and hormonal abnormalities have been reported in women with PCOS, particularly those with hypertension. However, no direct comparison between normotensive (blood pressure <140/90 mmHg) patients with HAPCOS and non-HAPCOS has been made. This study compared different cardiovascular (CV), anthropometric, metabolic and hormonal features between normotensive patients with HAPCOS and non-HAPCOS and healthy women.

Methods

We consecutively recruited 249 normotensive patients with PCOS and 85 healthy eumenorrheic women to a case-control observational study. Based on blood androgen concentration, patients with PCOS were divided into HAPCOS (n = 69) or non-HAPCOS (n = 180) groups.

Results

Although within normal ranges, patients with HAPCOS had significantly (p < 0.05) higher peripheral and central systolic blood pressure and pulse pressure, C-reactive protein, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, and insulin than subjects with non-HAPCOS, and healthy women. They also had lower N-terminal prohormone of B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) concentration. In contrast, their body mass index (BMI) was higher of over 4 kg/m2 than patients with non-HAPCOS and nearly 6 kg/m2 than in healthy participants. Except for BMI, statistical differences in the cardiometabolic profile were of little clinical relevance.

Conclusions

Young normotensive women with HAPCOS have a worse cardiometabolic profile but lower NT-proBNP concentration than patients with non-HAPCOS. Features of this profile in both PCOS groups are within ranges typical for healthy women. Increased BMI is the only clinically relevant feature differentiating hyperandrogenic from non-hyperandrogenic patients with PCOS, and healthy women.
Energy efficiency behaviour in the built environment—an assessment of current evaluation practices in the Nordic countries
Authors: Johansson Maria , Gentile Niko , Neij Lena
Published: February 2021

Behavioural change is expected to play a significant role in the transformation to a more energy efficient built environment. Despite this, current evaluation practice of interventions often overlook behavioural aspects in their ambition of advancing our knowledge on transformative change. Moreover, little attention is paid to how different research perspectives on human behaviour can complement each other in providing a broader scope and deeper understanding of behavioural change. In this study, we acknowledge this gap, and assess the current evaluation practices on behaviour. The focus is on energy efficiency in the built environment in the Nordic countries, and evaluations undertaken by researchers. The assessment shows that the Nordic evaluations apply a variety of disciplinary approaches, but have only to a limited extent addressed a psychological understanding of individual behaviour and behavioural change. We analyse and discuss the potential contribution of environmental psychology in strengthening a cross disciplinary evaluation approach. In all, the results indicate the value of also adding environmental psychology, to provide a stronger cross disciplinary understanding of behavioural change, and the need to coordinate and combine evaluations departing from different disciplinary approaches, to improve understanding of the transformational process.
Application with Internet of things technology in the municipal industrial wastewater treatment based on membrane bioreactor process
Authors: Zhang Wei , Ma Fei , Ren Min , Yang Fangqin
Published: February 2021

Anoxic–oxic process is also called anaerobic aerobic process and used widely with the membrane bioreactor (MBR) for wastewater treatment, particularly in China, thanks for their high efficiency, good-quality permeate and easy operation. However, because the content of the feed wastewater fluctuates in a large range and the operation condition of the system needs to be controlled accurately, it is very important to find an efficient way to constantly monitor the nodes of the system, and adjust the operation parameters, including the quantities used in the chemical treatment. Therefore, it is necessary to use Internet of things technology (IOT) sensing and control equipment to realize the dynamic monitoring of sewage treatment process parameters, so as to serve the drug delivery and equipment online control. This study introduces an application case based on IOT sensor control and supporting maintenance business. Through the practical application of this technology in an environmental protection sewage treatment enterprise in Wuxi, this study introduces a method of bringing the IOT into the MBR system of industrial wastewater treatment which can continuously and accurately monitoring the nodes of the system. Based on this study, an analysis and decision-making system based on real-time monitoring data can be realized to adjust operation parameters in time. In this method, the IOT is introduced into the MBR system of industrial wastewater treatment. The results show that with the support of IOT, the sewage treatment system runs stably and the treatment efficiency is significantly improved.
Preparation of flexible electrospun AOPAN/PVDF membranes for removing Pb2+ from water
Authors: Chen Yang , Jiang Lanying
Published: February 2021

Electrospun AOPAN/PVDF composite nanofiber membranes for metal ions treatment have been prepared by coaxial electrospinning. AOPAN shell layer was modified chemically for adsorbing metal ions by chelation, whereas the chemically stable PVDF inner core was for maintaining mechanical stability. Polymer concentration and applied voltage had obvious influence on the characteristics of the fibers’ structure, morphology and strength. The amidoxime reaction was sensitive to the pH value of solution, and it was found that the alkaline condition hindered the reaction. The characterization by SEM, FTIR and XRD showed that the AOPAN/PVDF membrane retained the core–shell structure integrity after chemical modification. In the static and dynamic adsorption experiments, the mechanical strength of the AOPAN/PVDF membrane did not change obviously within 5 cycles of adsorption and regeneration. In addition, the AOPAN/PVDF membranes showed a certain level of efficiency in removal of Pb2+ in aqueous solution; the adsorption capacities of the membranes in the 5th run were higher than 45% of the adsorption of the corresponding fresh membranes. The work provides a potential approach for preparing membranes having good feasibility for practical application in adsorption separation of metal ions.

Graphical Abstract
Fatigue strength of austempered ductile iron-to-steel dissimilar arc-welded joints
Authors: Meneghetti G. , Campagnolo A. , Berto D. , Pullin E. , Masaggia S.
Published: February 2021

Nowadays, the use of different classes of materials in the same structure is increased to keep pace with innovation and high structural performances. In this context, structural components made of different materials need to be joined together and a possible solution is given by arc welding. Dissimilar welded joints must often be able to withstand fatigue loads; however, Design Standards provide fatigue strength categories only for homogeneous welded joints. The aim of the present paper is to compare the fatigue behaviour of EN-GJS-1050 austempered ductile iron-to-S355J2 steel dissimilar joints to the categories of the corresponding homogeneous steel welded joints, as suggested in International Standards and Recommendations. For this purpose, experimental fatigue tests were performed on a selection of dissimilar welded details. First, the microstructure was identified by metallographic analysis; micro-hardness measurements were collected and residual stress profiles were obtained by using the X-ray diffraction technique on a selection of joints. Misalignments were quantified for all specimens. Then, experimental fatigue tests have been performed on a number of joint geometries subject to axial or bending fatigue loadings and tested in the as-welded conditions. The fracture surfaces of the joints have been analysed to locate fatigue crack nucleation sites.
Approximation by uniform domains in doubling quasiconvex metric spaces
Authors: Rajala Tapio
Published: February 2021

We show that any bounded domain in a doubling quasiconvex metric space can be approximated from inside and outside by uniform domains.
Indefinite zeta functions
Authors: Kopp Gene S.
Published: February 2021

We define generalised zeta functions associated with indefinite quadratic forms of signature$$(g-1,1)$$(g-1,1)—and more generally, to complex symmetric matrices whose imaginary part has signature$$(g-1,1)$$(g-1,1)—and we investigate their properties. These indefinite zeta functions are defined as Mellin transforms of indefinite theta functions in the sense of Zwegers, which are in turn generalised to the Siegel modular setting. We prove an analytic continuation and functional equation for indefinite zeta functions. We also show that indefinite zeta functions in dimension 2 specialise to differences of ray class zeta functions of real quadratic fields, whose leading Taylor coefficients at$$s=0$$s=0are predicted to be logarithms of algebraic units by the Stark conjectures.
Data-driven optimization for last-mile delivery
Authors: Chu Hongrui , Zhang Wensi , Bai Pengfei , Chen Yahong
Published: February 2021

This paper considers how an online food delivery platform can improve last-mile delivery services’ performance using multi-source data. The delivery time is one critical but uncertain factor for online platforms that also regarded as the main challenges in order assignment and routing service. To tackle this challenge, we propose a data-driven optimization approach that combines machine learning techniques with capacitated vehicle routing optimization. Machine learning methods can provide more accurate predictions and have received increasing attention in the operations research field. However, different from the traditional predict-then-optimize paradigm, we use a new smart predict-then-optimize framework, whose prediction objective is constructed by decision error instead of prediction error when implementing machine learning. Using this type of prediction, we can obtain a more accurate decision in the following optimization step. Efficient mini-batching gradient and heuristic algorithms are designed to solve the joint order assignment and routing problem of last-mile delivery service. Besides, this paper considers the mutual effect between routing decision and delivery
time, and provides the corresponding solution algorithm. In addition, this paper conducts a computational study and finds that the proposed method’s performance has an approximate 5% improvement compared with other methods.
Experimental and numerical investigations on glass fragments: shear-frame testing and calibration of Mohr–Coulomb plasticity model
Authors: Pauli Alexander , Kraus Michael A. , Siebert Geralt
Published: February 2021

The numerical treatment of the residual load-bearing behavior of laminated glasses (LG) in the post-fractured state is highly topical. Nevertheless, currently only few numerical approaches for an accurate representation of the experimentally observed behavior are existent. In order to model the characteristics of the load-bearing behavior of glass laminates in the post-fractured state, the behavior of the interlayer, the behavior of the glass fragments as well as the bonding between glass and interlayer need to be characterized correctly. This paper focuses on the modeling of the frictional contacts between the glass fragments itself. In order to allow for the calibration of failure criteria for the fractured glass particles, framed shear tests which are a common experimental technique in geomechanical testing to determine the shear strength of soils, are performed on glass fragments of different thicknesses and levels of thermal pre-stress. The test results are subsequently used to calibrate non-associated Mohr–Coulomb criteria, which are widely applied to the description of failure and frictional sliding of soils, to the experimental data of four distinct kinds of glass fragments. The obtained parameters of the Mohr–Coulomb models are in magnitude similar to the parameters of standard soils such as sand or gravel. The experimental data further show, that the Mohr–Coulomb model in general can be used to approximate the stress failure plane of the glass fragments but lacks for capturing correctly the plastic volumetric strains (dilation) in Finite Element modelling. Numerical investigations by the Finite Element method showed, that it is possible to reproduce experimental data by using Mohr–Coulomb plasticity models and hence the numerical models are validated for further investigations.
Entrepreneurship and the Racial Wealth Gap: The Impact of Entrepreneurial Success or Failure on the Wealth Mobility of Black and White Families
Authors: Kroeger Teresa , Wright Graham
Published: February 2021

Research has repeatedly argued that increasing the rate at which Black people start businesses could reduce the racial wealth gap between Black and white families, but increasing the rate of Black entrepreneurship may actually exacerbate the racial wealth gap, due to the economic cost associated with business closure. Using longitudinal data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID), we find that, as past work suggests, Black-owned businesses are less likely to remain open 4 years later, compared to white-owned businesses, and that, due to this disparity, Black business owners are more likely to experience downward economic mobility and less likely to experience upward mobility, compared to their white counterparts. These results suggest that improving the rate at which Black entrepreneurs succeed, rather than increasing the rate at which Black people become entrepreneurs, should be the target of efforts to leverage business ownership to reduce the racial wealth gap.
Kunstunterrichtliches Lernen im Spannungsfeld von Kind und Kunst – Zur inklusiven Bildung und kunstunterrichtlichem Lernen in der Grundschule
Authors: Kaiser Michaela , Brenne Andreas
Published: February 2021

Dieser Beitrag bearbeitet überblicksartig inklusives Lernen in der Grundschule aus kunstdidaktischer Perspektive. Ausgehend von der Auffassung, dass der Kunstunterricht und dessen künstlerische Bezüge für eine inklusive Perspektive nahezu prädestiniert zu sein scheinen, paradoxerweise aber die Diskussion um inklusive Bildung in kaum einer Fachdidaktik so wenig systematisch aufgegriffen wurde, werden kunstdidaktische Diskurse strukturell beleuchtet, um einen möglichen Perspektivwechsel vorzubereiten. Unter dieser Prämisse wird der Frage nachgegangen, welche Bezüge zum inklusiven fachlichen Lernen sich im Kunstunterricht nachzeichnen lassen und inwiefern dieser Zusammenhang im Kunstunterricht der Grundschule thematisiert wird.
Migration of mineral oil in elastomers
Authors: Förster Tobias , Blivernitz Artur
Published: February 2021

This work describes a newly introduced experimental procedure to quantify the diffusion progress of mineral oils locally resolved in NBR. Diffusion of reference oils IRM 901, IRM 902 and IRM 903 in NBR with various acrylonitrile contents was investigated. Classical sorption experiments were performed as a basic characterization and compared to the newly introduced method. Here, elastomer specimens are only being dipped with the bottom in a relatively small reservoir of mineral oil. This provides a determination of locally resolved concentration profiles of mineral oils, and the calculation of diffusion coefficients. These diffusion coefficients follow the same trends like those determined via sorption experiments. Despite differences in the absolute numbers, activation energies of diffusion can be applied as a suitable measure for the compatibility of elastomers and fluids.
Medical Robotics for Ultrasound Imaging: Current Systems and Future Trends
Authors: von Haxthausen Felix , Böttger Sven , Wulff Daniel , Hagenah Jannis , García-Vázquez Verónica , Ipsen Svenja
Published: February 2021

Purpose of Review

This review provides an overview of the most recent robotic ultrasound systems that have contemporary emerged over the past five years, highlighting their status and future directions. The systems are categorized based on their level of robot autonomy (LORA).

Recent Findings

Teleoperating systems show the highest level of technical maturity. Collaborative assisting and autonomous systems are still in the research phase, with a focus on ultrasound image processing and force adaptation strategies. However, missing key factors are clinical studies and appropriate safety strategies. Future research will likely focus on artificial intelligence and virtual/augmented reality to improve image understanding and ergonomics.

A review on robotic ultrasound systems is presented in which first technical specifications are outlined. Hereafter, the literature of the past five years is subdivided into teleoperation, collaborative assistance, or autonomous systems based on LORA. Finally, future trends for robotic ultrasound systems are reviewed with a focus on artificial intelligence and virtual/augmented reality.
We the People: Is the Polity the State?
Authors: COLLINS STEPHANIE , LAWFORD-SMITH HOLLY
Published: February 2021

When a liberal-democratic state signs a treaty or wages a war, does its whole polity do those things? In this article, we approach this question via the recent social ontological literature on collective agency. We provide arguments that it does and that it does not. The arguments are presented via three considerations: the polity's control over what the state does; the polity's unity; and the influence of individual polity members. We suggest that the answer to our question differs for different liberal-democratic states and depends on two underlying considerations: (1) the amount of discretion held by the state's officeholders; (2) the extent to which the democratic procedure is deliberative rather than aggregative.
Overview and specifications of laser and target areas at the Intense Laser Irradiation Laboratory
Authors: Gizzi Leonida A. , Labate Luca , Baffigi Federica , Brandi Fernando , Bussolino Giancarlo , Fulgentini Lorenzo , Köster Petra , Palla Daniele
Published: February 2021

We present the main features of the ultrashort, high-intensity laser installation at the Intense Laser Irradiation Laboratory (ILIL) including laser, beam transport and target area specifications. The laboratory was designed to host laser–target interaction experiments of more than 220 TW peak power, in flexible focusing configurations, with ultrarelativistic intensity on the target. Specifications have been established via dedicated optical diagnostic assemblies and commissioning interaction experiments. In this paper we give a summary of laser specifications available to users, including spatial, spectral and temporal contrast features. The layout of the experimental target areas is presented, with attention to the available configurations of laser focusing geometries and diagnostics. Finally, we discuss radiation protection measures and mechanical stability of the laser focal spot on the target.
Life-cycle analysis of coesite-bearing garnet
Authors: Schönig Jan , von Eynatten Hilmar , Meinhold Guido , Lünsdorf N. Keno
Published: February 2021

Detrital coesite-bearing garnet is the final product of a complex geological cycle including coesite entrapment at ultra-high-pressure conditions, exhumation to Earth’s surface, erosion and sedimentary transport. In contrast to the usual enrichment of high-grade metamorphic garnet in medium- to coarse-sand fractions, coesite-bearing grains are often enriched in the very-fine-sand fraction. To understand this imbalance, we analyse the role of source-rock lithology, inclusion size, inclusion frequency and fluid infiltration on the grain-size heterogeneity of coesite-bearing garnet based on a dataset of 2100 inclusion-bearing grains, of which 93 contain coesite, from the Saxonian Erzgebirge, Germany. By combining inclusion assemblages and garnet chemistry, we show that (1) mafic garnet contains a low number of coesite inclusions per grain and is enriched in the coarse fraction, and (2) felsic garnet contains variable amounts of coesite inclusions per grain, whereby coesite-poor grains are enriched in the coarse fraction and coesite-rich grains extensively disintegrated into smaller fragments resulting in an enrichment in the fine fraction. Raman images reveal that: small coesite inclusions of dimension < 9 µm are primarily monomineralic, whereas larger inclusions partially transformed to quartz; and garnet fracturing, fluid infiltration and the coesite-to-quartz transformation is a late process during exhumation taking place at c. 330°C. A model for the disintegration of coesite-bearing garnet enables the heterogeneous grain-size distribution to be explained by inclusion frequency. High abundances of coesite inclusions cause a high degree of fracturing and fracture connections to smaller inclusions, allowing fluid infiltration and the transformation to quartz, which in turn further promotes garnet disintegration.
The Co-Constitution of Order
Authors: Tourinho Marcos
Published: February 2021

The idea of liberal international order as a world order is understood to be constituted as a result of disproportionate Anglo-American influences. This is in line with much of international relations (IR) theory, which typically characterizes the emergence of order as resulting from the diffusion or imposition of norms and institutions from the world's centers of power. This article argues otherwise, its premise being that the international order founded on sovereign equal nation-states was co-constituted as well by the influence of relatively weak actors through decentralized processes of contestation over core international norms. Drawing on international relations, history, and law, this article outlines a framework to interpret the actions and mechanisms by which supposedly weak actors shaped international order. It concisely traces the constitution of order as based on its fundamental norms and assesses the implications of the argument for the current crisis of liberal order, as well as IR theory more broadly, laying out a research agenda for the future.
Genetic architecture of Tourette syndrome: our current understanding
Authors: Domènech Laura , Cappi Carolina , Halvorsen Matt
Published: February 2021

Tourette syndrome (TS) is a severe neuropsychiatric disorder characterized by recurrent, involuntary physical and verbal tics. With a prevalence as high as 1% in children, a deeper understanding of the etiology of the disorder and contributions to risk is critical. Here, we cover the current body of knowledge in scientific literature regarding the genetics of TS. We first review the history and diagnostic criteria for TS cases. We then cover the prevalence, and begin to address the etiology of the disorder. We highlight long-standing evidence for a genetic contribution to TS risk from epidemiology studies focused on twins, families, and population-scale data. Finally, we summarize current large-scale genetic studies of TS along specific classes of genetic variation, including common variation, rare copy number variation, and de novo variation that impact protein-coding sequence. Although these variants do not account for the entirety of TS genetic risk, current evidence is clear that each class of variation is a factor in the overall risk architecture across TS cases.
Determinants of food insecurity among elderly people: findings from the Canadian Community Health Survey
Authors: Kansanga Moses Mosonsieyiri , Sano Yujiro , Bayor Isaac , Braimah Joseph Asumah , Nunbogu Abraham Marshall , Luginaah Isaac
Published: February 2021

Food insecurity among elderly people is a major public health concern due to its association with several health conditions. Despite growing research and implementation of diverse income-based policy measures, food insecurity among elderly people remains a major policy issue in Canada. Additional research could inform food policy beyond strategies that target improving the financial resources of elderly people. Drawing data from the Canadian Community Health Survey (N = 24,930), we explored the correlates of food insecurity among older adults using negative log-log logistic regression techniques. Our findings show that certain categories of elderly people are more prone to food insecurity. These segments include seniors who are visible minorities (OR = 1.29, p < 0.01), live alone (OR = 1.13, p < 0.05), have a very weak sense of community belonging (OR = 1.40, p < 0.001), in poor physical health (OR = 1.20, p < 0.01), and those in lower age and income categories. These findings corroborate previous studies that demonstrate that food insecurity among elderly people is a complex phenomenon influenced by diverse socio-economic factors. In Canada, food security policies targeted at elderly people have largely prioritised poverty alleviation through income support programmes. While these programmes can improve the purchasing power of elderly people, they may not be sufficient in ensuring food security. There is a need to embrace and further investigate an integrated approach that pays attention to other contextual socio-economic dynamics.
The heart of bureaucratic power: Explaining international bureaucracies’ expert authority
Authors: Liese Andrea , Herold Jana , Feil Hauke , Busch Per-Olof
Published: February 2021

Expert authority is regarded as the heart of international bureaucracies’ power. To measure whether international bureaucracies’ expert authority is indeed recognised and deferred to, we draw on novel data from a survey of a key audience: officials in the policy units of national ministries in 121 countries. Respondents were asked to what extent they recognised the expert authority of nine international bureaucracies in various thematic areas of agricultural and financial policy. The results show wide variance. To explain this variation, we test well-established assumptions on the sources of de facto expert authority. Specifically, we look at ministry officials’ perceptions of these sources and, thus, focus on a less-studied aspect of the authority relationship. We examine the role of international bureaucracies’ perceived impartiality, objectivity, global impact, and the role of knowledge asymmetries. Contrary to common assumptions, we find that de facto expert authority does not rest on impartiality perceptions, and that perceived objectivity plays the smallest role of all factors considered. We find some indications that knowledge asymmetries are associated with more expert authority. Still, and robust to various alternative specifications, the perception that international bureaucracies are effectively addressing global challenges is the most important factor.
Hantavirus–Leptospira coinfections in small mammals from central Germany
Authors: Jeske K. , Jacob J. , Drewes S. , Pfeffer M. , Heckel G. , Ulrich R. G. , Imholt C.
Published: February 2021

European orthohantaviruses (Puumala orthohantavirus (PUUV); Dobrava-Belgrade orthohantavirus (DOBV), genotype Kurkino; Tula orthohantavirus (TULV)), and Leptospira spp. are small mammal-associated zoonotic pathogens that cause diseases with potentially similar symptoms in humans. We investigated the frequency of Leptospira spp. and hantavirus single and double infections in small mammals from 22 sites in Thuringia, central Germany, during 2017. TULV infections were detected at 18 of 22 sites (mean prevalence 13.8%, 93/674). PUUV infections were detected at four of 22 sites (mean prevalence 1.5%, 7/471), and respective PUUV sequences formed a novel phylogenetic clade, but DOBV infections were not detected at all. Leptospira infections were detected at 21 of 22 sites with the highest overall prevalence in field voles (Microtus agrestis) with 54.5% (6/11) and common voles (Microtus arvalis) with 30.3% (205/676). Leptospira–hantavirus coinfections were found in 6.6% (44/671) of common voles but only in two of 395 bank voles. TULV and Leptospira coinfection probability in common voles was driven by individual (age) and population-level factors. Coinfections seemed to be particularly associated with sites where Leptospira spp. prevalence exceeded 35%. Future investigations should evaluate public health consequences of this strong spatial clustering of coinfections.
THE SOUNDSCAPE IN THE REPLICA OF THE CERÉN TEMAZCAL
Authors: Sheets Payson , Mahoney Robert
Published: February 2021

Archaeologists have relied almost exclusively upon sight among the five human senses to investigate architecture, features, and artifacts. In recent decades researchers have explored how ancient people may have experienced sound, because it was an essential component of lived experiences in ancient societies. Natural and culturally constructed spaces had acoustical properties that enhanced social, political, economic, and ritual events. This article investigates through the lens of archaeoacoustics the large domed earthen temazcal that residents constructed at Joya de Cerén during the seventh century a.d. Its uniqueness at this Classic-period Maya village in El Salvador has attracted considerable interest due to its exceptional preservation and distinct shape. Fortunately, in 2012, architects were able to construct a precise replica for public access. Through the years, visitors entering the replica have noted how significantly their voices were altered, once inside. To evaluate scientifically these observations, two recordings of sound were made and analyzed acoustically. The earthen dome morphology causes “preferred frequencies” to be sustained for a long time, while nonfavored frequencies diminish quickly. The predominant resonance is at 64 hertz, a tone so low that basso profundo singers can barely achieve it. The internal morphology greatly accentuates voices of mature males, but not those with higher pitches, such as mature females or children. The acoustical environment may have been utilized by men for divination, education, curing, rites of passage, and other functions, some of which have not been previously considered. The nature of the lived experience in a socially charged performance space is explored here with new insights regarding how the sweatbath was vital to all in the community.
ON THE TRUTH-CONVERGENCE OF OPEN-MINDED BAYESIANISM
Authors: STERKENBURG TOM F. , DE HEIDE RIANNE
Published: February 2021

Wenmackers and Romeijn [38] formalize ideas going back to Shimony [33] and Putnam [28] into an open-minded Bayesian inductive logic, that can dynamically incorporate statistical hypotheses proposed in the course of the learning process. In this paper, we show that Wenmackers and Romeijn’s proposal does not preserve the classical Bayesian consistency guarantee of merger with the true hypothesis. We diagnose the problem, and offer a forward-looking open-minded Bayesians that does preserve a version of this guarantee.
Kolonkarzinom
Authors: Wilhelmi Martin , Burkhart Andreas , Netzer Peter
Published: February 2021

Zusammenfassung. Das kolorektale Karzinom (KRK) ist die zweithäufigste Ursache für krebsassoziierte Todesfälle in Europa. Es konnte gezeigt werden, dass ein flächendeckendes Screening sinnvoll und kosteneffektiv ist. Die Beteiligung an Screening-Programmen in der Schweiz ist jedoch mit < 20 % gering. Es gibt verschiedene Screening-Tools. Neben der Koloskopie werden vor allem auch Stuhltests eingesetzt. Immunologische Stuhltests (FIT-Tests) können – alle zwei Jahre durchgeführt – Tumore und fortgeschrittene Adenome detektieren und senken so die Mortalität. Diese Tests haben ältere Stuhltests (z. B. Hämoccult®) welche auf Basis von Guajakharz funktionieren abgelöst. Die Detektion und Entfernung kleiner Colonpolypen, die als Krebsvorstufen gelten, ist weiterhin einzig durch die Koloskopie möglich, welche gleichzeitig diagnostisch und therapeutisch eingesetzt wird und weiterhin den Goldstandard zum KRK-Screening darstellt. Die risikoadaptierte Prävention mit Stratifizierung der Patienten nach Risikogruppen sowie eine generelle Optimierung der Risikofaktoren sind wichtige Faktoren. Generell wird jedoch auch ohne Risikofaktoren ein Beginn des Screenings ab 50 Jahren empfohlen. Die Aufklärung des Patienten über Vor- und Nachteile der verschiedenen Screeningverfahren und eine gemeinsame Entscheidungsfindung sind eine notwendige Voraussetzung für eine höhere Beteiligung an Screening-Programmen. Eine Franchisebefreiung für die Screening-Koloskopie wäre hierbei wünschenswert. Pilotprojekte zur Evaluation eines systematischen KRK-Screenings wurden begonnen.