bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Longtime official recognized for her leadership during COVID‐19
Authors: D'Orio Wayne
Published: April 2023

When COVID‐19 shut down Cornell in 2020, like colleges across the country, officials had to reinvent how they were able to help students. Suddenly, Lisa M. Clark, the school's deputy university registrar, found herself working at home with a Zoom screen full of other officials she had never interacted with before.
Thrombophilia screening in the routine clinical care of children with arterial ischemic stroke
Authors: Maher Kristin , Persa Laurel , Barry Dwight , Lee‐Eng Jacqueline , Dichek Helen , Joshi Sarita , Amlie‐Lefond Catherine
Published: April 2023

Background

Current guidelines recommend thrombophilia evaluation in childhood arterial ischemic stroke, but the impact of screening on management is unknown. The objective of the current study is to report the incidence of thrombophilia identified as part of routine clinical care in the context of available literature reports, and to describe the impact of a diagnosis of thrombophilia on patient management.

Methods

We conducted a single‐institution retrospective chart review for all children with arterial ischemic stroke occurring between January 1, 2009 and January 1, 2021. We collected thrombophilia screening results, stroke etiology, and management. We also reviewed the literature of thrombophilia testing in childhood arterial ischemic stroke published prior to June 30, 2022. Meta‐analysis methods were used to assess prevalence rates.

Results

Among children with thrombophilia testing performed, 5% (six of 122 patients) were factor V Leiden heterozygous, 1% (one of 102 patients) were prothrombin gene mutation heterozygous, 1% (one of 122) had protein S deficiency, 20% (23/116 patients) had elevated lipoprotein(a), 3% (three of 110 patients) had elevated homocysteine levels, and 9% (10/112) had elevated antiphospholipid antibodies, only two of whom had persistently elevated levels. There was no change in stroke therapy due to these results. Literature review revealed a wide range of prevalence for most thrombophilia traits, with high cross‐study heterogeneity in most cases.

Conclusions

The rates of thrombophilia in our cohort were consistent with that expected in the general population. The identification of thrombophilia did not alter stroke care. However, some of the results were actionable, prompting evaluation for lipid disorders and patient‐specific counseling on cardiovascular risk and risk for venous thrombosis.
Impact of thermomechanical reprocessing conditions on polypropylene composites made from automotive waste parts: A path to a circular economy
Authors: Garcia‐Vazquez Hector D. , Martinez‐Hernandez Harol D. , Trujillo‐Barragan Magdalena , Mondragon‐Flores Esteban , Rodriguez‐Juarez Mario E. , Millan‐Malo Beatriz M. , Villada‐Villalobos Jhon A. , Rodriguez‐Garcia Mario E.
Published: April 2023

This work focused studying waste car bumper samples and their processing by re‐extrusion‐injection. Car bumpers are composed of crystalline phases of polypropylene (PP), talc, and amorphous ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM). The recycled material's thermal, mechanical, and structural properties depend strongly on the process used for extrusion and injection and the crystalline phases formed during the heating process. The FWHM of the x‐ray diffraction patterns was used to study the recrystallization phenomenon in PP, and the result was in direct correlation with the Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) results. The remaining micro paint particles from the bumpers involved in the recycled extrusion‐injection process affect the mechanical properties, and their size and toughness could affect the injection. Removing these particles could improve the mechanical properties of the recycled PP. Car parts based on polypropylene can be recycled for the automotive industry to produce the same type of products and even for other areas. A methodology and metrology can be developed to understand the chemical composition and its relationship with the properties of PP‐based materials. This could lead to finding new applications in different fields and promote the development of a circular economy.
Absorption Properties of a One‐Dimensional Photonic Crystal with a Defect Layer Composed of a Left‐Handed Metamaterial and Two Monolayer Graphene
Authors: Taya Sofyan A. , Daher Malek G. , Almawgani Abdulkarem H. M. , Hindi Ayman Taher , Colak Ilhami , Patel Shobhit K. , Pal Amrindra
Published: April 2023

To construct photodetector and photovoltaic devices, light absorption is crucial. Herein, the absorption properties of a photonic crystal (PhC) consisting of high‐ and low‐index dielectric materials and a metamaterial defect layer are investigated. Two graphene sheets are assumed to surround the metamaterial layer. The study is theoretically investigated and numerically simulated in the gigahertz region. The metamaterial negative permittivity and permeability are assumed to follow the Drude model. The number of unit cells, graphene chemical potential (GCP), graphene phenomenological scattering rate (GPSR), and the metamaterial layer thickness are varied to examine the PhC tunable absorption properties. The following points are demonstrated: 1) the number of absorbance peaks increases as the number of unit cells increases; 2) when the GCP increases, the absorbance peaks dramatically decay; 3) the number of absorbance peaks in the absorption spectrum is independent of the GCP and GPSR; and 4) the absorbance peaks exhibit a significant enhancement with increasing GPSR. The proposed PhC can be used to design optical devices based on graphene and metamaterials, such as sensors, filters, and absorbers in the GHz range.
Formation encirclement of multiple quadrotors subjected to semi‐Markov jump switching topologies under consensus strategy
Authors: Wang Mingming , Sun Lin , Ping Yuan , Ma Zhenwei , Wu Chong , Guo Jinjin , Yuan Songbo , Qi Juntong
Published: April 2023

This paper focuses on the formation encirclement problem of multiple quadrotors subjected to semi‐Markov jump switching topologies under consensus strategy. A target encirclement control algorithm is designed to achieve an enclosed formation, which drives autonomous quadrotors around the target so the target can't get away. Afterward, we propose a decentralized consensus‐based control protocol to realize the encirclement of the target quadrotor, where onboard miniature computers carry out all necessary computations. Notably, the quadrotor is modeled by a double integrator and the switching topology is described by a signed graph subjected to the semi‐Markov jump process. Whereafter, some criteria in the form of linear matrix inequalities are constructed based on the Lyapunov stability theory to achieve encirclement behavior. Ultimately, the proposed approach is verified by a comparison simulation and two flight experiments with three follower quadrotors enclosing a leader quadrotor.
Ultrafine NiFe‐Based (Oxy)Hydroxide Nanosheet Arrays with Rich Edge Planes and Superhydrophilic‐Superaerophobic Characteristics for Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Jiao Han , Wang Chun , Zhang Zi‐Yang , Song Yi‐Fu , Feng Bai‐qi , Na Ping , Wang Zhong‐Li
Published: April 2023

NiFe‐based (oxy)hydroxides are the benchmark catalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in alkaline medium, however, it is still challenging to control their structures and compositions. Herein, molybdates (NiFe(MoO4)x) are applied as unique precursors to synthesize ultrafine Mo modified NiFeOxHy (oxy)hydroxide nanosheet arrays. The electrochemical activation process enables the molybdate ions (MoO42−) in the precursors gradually dissolve, and at the same time, hydroxide ions (OH−) in the electrolyte diffuse into the precursor and react with Ni2+ and Fe3+ ions in confined space to produce ultrafine NiFeOxHy (oxy)hydroxides nanosheets (<10 nm), which are densely arranged into microporous arrays and maintain the rod‐like morphology of the precursor. Such dense ultrafine nanosheet arrays produce rich edge planes on the surface of NiFeOxHy (oxy)hydroxides to expose more active sites. More importantly, the capillary phenomenon of microporous structures and hydrophilic hydroxyl groups induce the superhydrophilicity and the rough surface produces the superaerophobic characteristic for bubbles. With these advantages, the optimized catalyst exhibits excellent performance for OER, with a small overpotential of 182 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and long‐term stability (200 h) at 200 mA cm−2. Theoretical calculations show that the modification of Mo enhances the electron delocalization and optimizes the adsorption of intermediates.
Coacervate‐Assisted Polymerization‐Induced Self‐Assembly of Chiral Alternating Copolymers into Hierarchical Bishell Capsules with Sub‐5 nm Ultrathin Lamellae
Authors: Xu Qingsong , Yu Chunyang , Jiang Lingsheng , Wang Yuling , Liu Feng , Jiang Wenfeng , Zhou Yongfeng
Published: April 2023

Hierarchical self‐assembly of synthetic polymers in solution represents one of the sophisticated strategies to replicate the natural superstructures which lay the basis for their superb functions. However, it is still quite challenging to increase the degree of complexity of the as‐prepared assemblies, especially in a large scale. Liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS) widely exists in cells and is assumed to be responsible for the formation of many cellular organelles without membranes. Herein, through integrating LLPS with the polymerization‐induced self‐assembly (PISA), a coacervate‐assisted PISA (CAPISA) methodology to realize the one‐pot and scalable preparation of hierarchical bishell capsules (BCs) from nanosheets with ultrathin lamellae phase (sub‐5 nm), microflakes, unishell capsules to final BCs in a bottom‐up sequence is presented. Both the self‐assembled structure and the dynamic formation process of BCs have been disclosed. Since CAPISA has combined the advantages of coacervates, click chemistry, interfacial reaction and PISA, it is believed that it will become a promising option to fabricate biomimetic polymer materials with higher structural complexity and more sophisticated functions.
Synchronous Modulation of Energy Level Gradient and Defects for High‐Efficiency HTL‐Free Carbon‐Based All‐Inorganic Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Huo Xiaonan , Wang Kexiang , Liu Weifeng , Sun Weiwei , Yin Ran , Sun Yansheng , Gao Yukun , You Tingting , Yin Penggang
Published: April 2023

In order to improve the thermal stability of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) and reduce production costs, hole transport layer (HTL)‐free carbon‐based CsPbI3 PSCs (C‐PSCs) have attracted the attention of researchers. However, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of HTL‐free CsPbI3 C‐PSCs is still lower than that of PSCs with HTL/ metal electrodes. This is because the direct contact between the carbon electrode and the perovskite layer has a higher requirement on the crystal quality of perovskite layer and matched energy level at perovskite/carbon interface. Herein, the acyl chloride group and its derivative trichloroacetyl chloride are used to passivate CsPbI3 C‐PSCs for the first time. The results show that the carbonyl group of trichloroacetyl chloride can effectively passivate the uncoordinated Pb2+ ions in perovskite. At the same time, leaving group Cl− ions can increase the grain size of perovskite and improve the crystallization quality of perovskite layer. In addition, the trichloroacetyl chloride tends to generate cesium chloride acetate, which acts as an electron blocking layer, reduces charge recombination, promotes gradient energy level arrangement, and effectively improves the separation and extraction ability of carriers. The PCE of CsPbI3 HTL‐free C‐PSCs is successfully increased from 13.40% to 14.82%.
Biomaterials That Induce Immunogenic Cell Death
Authors: Li Di , Liu Siqi , Ma Yang , Liu Shixian , Liu Yahui , Ding Jianxun
Published: April 2023

The immune system takes part in most physiological and pathological processes of the body, including the occurrence and development of cancer. Immunotherapy provides a promising modality for inhibition and even the cure of cancer. During immunotherapy, the immunogenic cell death (ICD) of tumor cells induced by chemotherapy, radiotherapy, phototherapy, bioactive materials, and so forth, triggers a series of cellular responses by causing the release of tumor‐associated antigens and damage‐associated molecular patterns, which ultimately activate innate and adaptive immune responses. Among them, the ICD‐induced biomaterials attract increasing conditions as a benefit of biosafety and multifunctional modifications. This Review summarizes the research progress in biomaterials for inducing ICD via triggering endoplasmic reticulum oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and cell membrane rupture and discusses the application prospects of ICD‐inducing biomaterials in clinical practice for cancer immunotherapy.
Interface Modification by FAI@ZIF‐8 for High‐Efficiency Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Ma Qi , Lou Junjie , Cai Xuediao , Feng Jiangshan , Cao Yang , Li Zhigang , Liu Shengzhong (Frank)
Published: April 2023

The efficiency of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) has surpassed all other thin‐film solar cells. It is well known that the mismatch between the perovskite film and electron transport layer is an important factor to damage the stability of PSCs. Herein, an effective modification strategy to improve stability by using FAI@ZIF‐8 is demonstrated. It is found that the FAI@ZIF‐8 modification reduces the trap‐state density of the perovskite by slowly releasing FAI from the ZIF‐8 pore. Besides, FAI@ZIF‐8 improves energy‐level alignment at TiO2/perovskite interface, which facilitates electron extraction at the interface. As a consequence, an optimal power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 23.52% is achieved for the FAI@ZIF‐8‐treated PSCs. After storing under 20–30% relative humidity and room temperature for 2000 h, the FAI@ZIF‐8‐treated device sustains 96% of its initial PCE; nevertheless, the control device maintains only 73% of its initial PCE under the same conditions. This strategy is helpful to guide the development of high‐performance PSCs and promotes commercialization of perovskite materials.
Opioid‐free anaesthesia for surgical attenuation of a congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunt in a dog
Authors: da Cunha Constança Ribeiro , dos‐Santos José Diogo Gonçalves
Published: April 2023

Animals with impaired hepatic metabolism may experience reduced effect from some anaesthetic drugs and are more prone to developing unwanted side effects. Due to reduced blood flow to the liver, it is important to carefully select anaesthetic drugs in patients with extrahepatic shunt. We present the case in which a dog was submitted for surgical attenuation of congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunt through placement of an ameroid constrictor. A multimodal regimen was designed in order to provide an opioid‐free anaesthesia, relying on analgesia through a locoregional quadratus lumborum block with bupivacaine. Dexmedetomidine was administered intramuscularly as pre‐anaesthetic medication, propofol was used for the induction and anaesthesia was maintained with isoflurane. The present case describes the first case in which an extrahepatic portosystemic shunt was surgically treated using an opioid‐free anaesthesia in a dog.
The interdisciplinary science of autobiographical memory
Authors: El Haj Mohamad
Published: April 2023

To provide a comprehensive understanding of the characteristics of autobiographical memory, WIREs Cognitive Science is launching a special issue gathering contributions from various perspectives in the field of autobiographical memory. To introduce this special issue, I outline the philosophy of this collaborative project and summarize the knowledge gained from each of the 12 articles included. Insights into the next important steps in studying autobiographical memory are also provided. As shown in this article, research on autobiographical memory covers a wide range of disciplines (e.g., neuropsychology, cognitive psychology, social psychology, developmental psychology, neurology, psychiatry). However, there has been little interdisciplinary dialogue between autobiographical memory scholars until recently. For the first time, this special issue brings together theoretical contributions that offer different yet complementary approaches to the study of autobiographical memory.

This article is categorized under:

Psychology > Memory
Introduction
Authors: Martin Angela K.
Published: April 2023

This chapter contains the book’s main topic, ideas, and structure. It outlines the importance of the various interpretations and applications of the concept of vulnerability in contemporary bioethics. It also shows why there has been no agreement upon a definition of vulnerability in the literature to date, explaining that there remains disagreement about the exact scope of vulnerability, its ascription-conditions, and its moral implications.
On the Symmetries of a Kaehler Manifold
Authors: Albujer Alma L. , Alcázar Jorge , Caballero Magdalena
Published: April 2023

The natural symmetries of Riemannian manifolds are described by the symmetries of its Riemann curvature tensor. In that sense, the most symmetric manifolds are the constant sectional curvature ones. Its natural generalizations are locally symmetric manifolds, semisymmetric manifolds, and pseudosymmetric manifolds. The analogous generalizations of constant holomorphic sectional curvature Kaehler manifolds are locally symmetric Kaehler manifolds, semisymmetric Kaehler manifolds, and holomorphically pseudosymmetric Kaehler manifolds. Do they differ in some way from their Riemannian analogues? Yes, we prove they can all be characterized only in terms of holomorphic planes. Furthermore, the concept of holomorphically pseudosymmetric Kaehler manifold is different from the classical notion of pseudosymmetric Riemannian manifold proposed by Deszcz. We study some relations between both definitions of pseudosymmetry and the so called double sectional curvatures in the sense of Deszcz. We also present a geometric interpretation of the complex Tachibana tensor and a new characterization of constant holomorphic sectional curvature Kaehler manifolds.
Analysis of self-tapping screw joints in fibre glass reinforced PEI polymer used in the automotive industry
Authors: Cumbicus Wilmer E. , Estrems Manuel , Arizmendi Miguel , Jiménez Amaya
Published: April 2023

This article presents a study of the joining of polyetherimide (PEI) polymer parts reinforced with fibre glass which has great application in the automotive sector. A simulation model based on the finite element method is proposed. For the modelling of the polymeric material, the three-network viscoplastic (TNV) rheological model was used, with very adequate results and producing a good fit with the experimental data. In addition, a methodology is proposed that allows simplifying a three-dimensional to an axisymmetric model, which implies a notable reduction in computational cost. In addition, the work includes an experimental analysis that evaluates the tightening torque under conditions of assembly repetitiveness, relaxation over time and influence of thermal cycles. These scenarios have a different influence depending on the geometry of the self-tapping screw used. Regarding repetitiveness, it has been verified that PF-30 (CELOspArk®) loses 17.16% while in Δ-PT (DELTA PT®) it loses up to 41.93% in the tenth repetition. In contrast, in the relaxation over time scenario, the PF-30 loses 13.38% and the Δ-PT loses 17.82%. Finally, regarding the thermal cycles, cooling allows to slightly delay the loss of tightening torque in both screws in a similar way; however, in the heating stage, 36.89% is lost with PF-30 and only 14.66% with Δ-PT. This study represents an improvement in the knowledge of the joining processes of self-tapping screws with polymeric materials of an engineering nature. The simulation model can be easily adapted to other materials and other geometries, and the experimental study offers a vision of the evolution of tightening conditions in realistic operating scenarios.
A study on the EDM drilling of reaction-bonded silicon carbide using different electrode materials
Authors: Torres-Salcedo Alexia , Luis-Pérez Carmelo Javier , Puertas-Arbizu Ignacio , Corres-Sanz Jesús María
Published: April 2023

Today, there is a growing demand for efficient hole manufacturing technology in many industries such as aeronautics, automotive and nuclear, among others. Thus, the present study deals with the machining of through holes on SiSiC advanced ceramic by using Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) drilling technology. Since recommendations related to the electrode characteristics and settings parameters are found to be scant for the industrial use of EDM drilling of SiSiC ceramics, this research work comes to cover this gap as it presents a complete study focused on the influence on different electrodes under rough and finish machining conditions. In particular, the influence of four electrodes materials (copper, copper-tungsten, graphite and copper infiltrated graphite) and three different electrode diameters ranging from 2 to 4 mm are investigated. In addition, the rotational speed of the electrode is also analysed. From the experimental results, both electrode material and machining regime, seem to be the most relevant factors of all. In the case of 2 mm diameter electrode, material removal rate (MRR) with Cu electrode was, approximately, 4.5 times higher than that obtained with a C electrode. In fact, it was found that copper electrode rotating at 20 rpm combined with high values of discharge energy (I = 2 A; ti = 70 µs) is the most economical option in terms of production cost and production time, as it gives a high MRR of 0.4754 mm3/min and a minimum electrode wear (EW) value of 7.52%. Moreover, slightly higher values of MRR were achieved for CuC electrode compared to those obtained with C electrode, indicating that the addition of Cu in the electrode contributes to a greater removal of material. However, a value of Ra of 0.37 µm could be obtained by setting low current intensity values (I = 0.5 A; ti = 45 µs) combined with C electrodes and with no rotation.
Nedosiran in primary hyperoxaluria subtype 3: results from a phase I, single-dose study (PHYOX4)
Authors: Goldfarb David S. , Lieske John C. , Groothoff Jaap , Schalk Gesa , Russell Kerry , Yu Shuli , Vrhnjak Blaz
Published: April 2023

Nedosiran is an N-acetyl-D-galactosamine (GalNAc)–conjugated RNA interference agent targeting hepatic lactate dehydrogenase (encoded by the LDHA gene), the putative enzyme mediating the final step of oxalate production in all three genetic subtypes of primary hyperoxaluria (PH). This phase I study assessed the safety, pharmacokinetics (PK), and pharmacodynamics (PD) of subcutaneous nedosiran in patients with PH subtype 3 (PH3) and an estimated glomerular filtration rate  ≥ 30 mL/min/1.73 m2. Single-dose nedosiran 3 mg/kg or placebo was administered in a randomized (2:1), double-blinded manner. Safety/tolerability, 24-h urinary oxalate (Uox) concentrations, and plasma nedosiran concentrations were assessed. The main PD endpoint was the proportion of participants achieving a > 30% decrease from baseline in 24-h Uox at two consecutive visits. Six participants enrolled in and completed the study (nedosiran, n = 4; placebo, n = 2). Nedosiran was well-tolerated and lacked safety concerns. Although the PD response was not met, 24-h Uox excretion declined 24.5% in the nedosiran group and increased 10.5% in the placebo group at Day 85. Three of four nedosiran recipients had a > 30% reduction in 24-h Uox excretion during at least one visit, and one attained near‐normal (i.e., ≥ 0.46 to < 0.60 mmol/24 h; ≥ 1.0 to < 1.3 × upper limit of the normal reference range) 24-h Uox excretion from Day 29 to Day 85. Nedosiran displayed predictable plasma PK. The acceptable safety and trend toward Uox-lowering after single-dose nedosiran treatment enables further clinical development of nedosiran in patients with PH3 who currently have no viable therapeutic options. A plain language summary is available in the supplementary information.
Pancreatic fatty replacement as risk marker for altered glucose metabolism and cardiac iron and complications in thalassemia major
Authors: Meloni Antonella , Nobile Mario , Keilberg Petra , Positano Vincenzo , Santarelli Maria Filomena , Pistoia Laura , Spasiano Anna , Casini Tommaso , Putti Maria Caterina , Cuccia Liana , Bitti Pier Paolo , Messina Giuseppe , Peritore Giuseppe , Renne Stefania , Grassedonio Emanuele , Quaia Emilio , Cademartiri Filippo , Pepe Alessia
Published: April 2023

Objectives

This multicenter study assessed the extent of pancreatic fatty replacement and its correlation with demographics, iron overload, glucose metabolism, and cardiac complications in a cohort of well-treated patients with thalassemia major (TM).

Methods

We considered 308 TM patients (median age: 39.79 years; 182 females) consecutively enrolled in the Extension-Myocardial Iron Overload in Thalassemia Network. Magnetic resonance imaging was used to quantify iron overload (IO) and pancreatic fat fraction (FF) by T2* technique, cardiac function by cine images, and to detect replacement myocardial fibrosis by late gadolinium enhancement technique. The glucose metabolism was assessed by the oral glucose tolerance test.

Results

Pancreatic FF was associated with age, body mass index, and history of hepatitis C virus infection. Patients with normal glucose metabolism showed a significantly lower pancreatic FF than patients with impaired fasting glucose (p = 0.030), impaired glucose tolerance (p < 0.0001), and diabetes (p < 0.0001). A normal pancreatic FF (< 6.6%) showed a negative predictive value of 100% for abnormal glucose metabolism. A pancreatic FF > 15.33% predicted the presence of abnormal glucose metabolism. Pancreas FF was inversely correlated with global pancreas and heart T2* values. A normal pancreatic FF showed a negative predictive value of 100% for cardiac iron. Pancreatic FF was significantly higher in patients with myocardial fibrosis (p = 0.002). All patients with cardiac complications had fatty replacement, and they showed a significantly higher pancreatic FF than complications-free patients (p = 0.002).

Conclusion

Pancreatic FF is a risk marker not only for alterations of glucose metabolism, but also for cardiac iron and complications, further supporting the close link between pancreatic and cardiac disease.

Key Points

• In thalassemia major, pancreatic fatty replacement by MRI is a frequent clinical entity, predicted by a pancreas T2* < 20.81 ms and associated with a higher risk of alterations in glucose metabolism.

• In thalassemia major, pancreatic fatty replacement is a strong risk marker for cardiac iron, replacement fibrosis, and complications, highlighting a deep connection between pancreatic and cardiac impairment.
Multicenter comparison of transcatheter aortic valve implantation with the self-expanding ACURATE neo2 versus Evolut PRO transcatheter heart valves
Authors: Rheude Tobias , Pellegrini Costanza , Landt Martin , Bleiziffer Sabine , Wolf Alexander , Renker Matthias , Neuser Jonas , Dörr Oliver , Allali Abdelhakim , Rudolph Tanja K. , Wambach Jan Martin , Widder Julian D. , Singh Parminder , Berliner Dominik , Alvarez-Covarrubias Hector A. , Richardt Gert , Xhepa Erion , Kim Won-Keun , Joner Michael
Published: April 2023

Background

New-generation self-expanding transcatheter aortic heart valves (THV) were designed to overcome technical constraints of their preceding generations. We sought to compare the efficacy and safety of the self-expanding ACURATE neo2 (Neo2) versus Evolut PRO (PRO) devices.

Methods

Seven hundred nine patients undergoing transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) with either Neo2 (n = 496) or PRO (n = 213) were included. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to account for differences in baseline characteristics. In-hospital and 30-day clinical outcomes were evaluated according to Valve Academic Research Consortium-3 criteria.

Results

Baseline characteristics were comparable between both groups after PSM (Neo2: n = 155, Evolut Pro: n = 155). Technical success rates were high in both groups (Neo2: 94.8% vs PRO: 97.4%; p = 0.239). Need for permanent pacemaker implantation was less frequent with Neo2 compared with PRO (7.5% vs 20.6%; p = 0.002), whereas major vascular complications were more frequent with Neo2 (Neo2: 11.6% vs PRO: 4.5%; p = 0.022). Intended valve performance at discharge was high in both groups without relevant differences among groups (Neo2: 97.4% vs. 95.3%; p = 0.328).

Conclusions

Short-term outcomes after TAVI using latest-generation self-expanding THV were excellent, with overall low rates of adverse events. However, Neo2 was associated with lower pacemaker rates and reduced the prevalence of moderate–severe paravalvular leakage. Transprosthetic gradients after TAVI were higher with Neo2 compared with PRO.

Graphical abstract
Relationship between the main components of the crystalline lens and the anterior chamber depth after cataract formation
Authors: Díez-Montero Cecilia , López-de la Rosa Alberto , López-Miguel Alberto , Maldonado Miguel J.
Published: April 2023

Purpose

To assess the relationship between anterior chamber depth (ACD) and lens thickness (LT), as well as its three main components (anterior and posterior cortex and nucleus thickness), in cataractous and non-cataractous eyes, depending on the axial length (AxL).

Methods

Anterior and posterior cortex and nucleus thickness of the crystalline lens, ACD, and AxL were measured using optical low-coherence reflectometry in cataractous and non-cataractous eyes. They were also classified into hyperopia, emmetropia, myopia, and high myopia, depending on AxL; thus, eight subgroups were created. A minimum sample size of 44 eyes (of 44 patients) for each group was recruited. Linear models were fitted for the whole sample and each AxL subgroup to assess if there were differences in the relationships between the crystalline lens variables and ACD, including age as a covariate.

Results

Three hundred seventy cataract patients (237 females, 133 males) and 250 non-cataract controls (180 females, 70 males), aged 70.5 ± 9.4 and 41.9 ± 15.5 years, respectively, were recruited. The mean AxL, ACD, and LT for the cataractous and non-cataractous eyes were 23.90 ± 2.05, 24.11 ± 2.11, 2.64 ± 0.45, and 2.91 ± 0.49, 4.51 ± 0.38, 3.93 ± 0.44 mm, respectively. The inverse relationship of LT, anterior and posterior cortex, and nucleus thickness with ACD was not significantly (p ≥ 0.26) different between cataractous and non-cataractous eyes. Further subclassification of the sample depending on AxL showed that the inverse relationship between the posterior cortex and ACD was no longer significant (p > 0.05) for any non-cataractous AxL group. LT, anterior and posterior cortex, and nucleus thickness was not significantly (p ≥ 0.43) different between cataractous and non-cataractous eyes for the whole sample, and all AxL groups after adjusting for age.

Conclusions

The presence of cataracts does not modify the inverse relationship of the LT, anterior and posterior cortex, and nucleus with ACD. And this relationship does not seem to depend importantly on AxL. Besides, the possible differences in LT, anterior and posterior cortex, and nucleus between cataractous and non-cataractous eyes may not be caused by lens opacification, but possibly by the progressive lens growth due to aging.
Deutschrap als innovatives Instrument des Regionalmarketings? Die Vermarktung geographischer Imaginationen Ostdeutschlands in Rapmusik
Authors: Auge Yelva , Ringel Florian , Fleischmann Larissa
Published: April 2023

In diesem Beitrag arbeiten wir heraus, inwiefern Deutschrap ein innovatives Instrument des Regionalmarketings darstellt, das zur gezielten Vermarktung bestimmter geographischer Imaginationen über Orte und Regionen eingesetzt werden könnte. Hintergrund ist die im August 2022 gestartete und mit 260.000 € bezifferte Werbekampagne des Landesmarketings Brandenburg „jwd – jeder will dahin“, die das Ziel verfolgte, einen weitreichenderen Imagewandel zu bewirken, indem das Flächenland als attraktiver Wohn- und Gewerbestandort vermarktet werden sollte. In diesem Zusammenhang wurde der Rapper Finch engagiert, einen Raptrack zu veröffentlichen, welcher schon nach kurzer Zeit als neue „Brandenburg-Hymne“ in den Medien diskutiert wurde. Ziel dieses Beitrags ist es, am Beispiel des Rappers Finch zu analysieren, welches Image von Ostdeutschland im Deutschrap gezeichnet und zu kommerziellen Zwecken vermarktet wird. Wir werden dabei aufzeigen, dass Deutschrap zwar in kurzer Zeit eine hohe Reichweite bei speziell jüngeren Zielgruppen generieren kann, die Werbekampagne des Landes Brandenburgs durch die Auswahl des Rappers Finch jedoch schlussendlich Gefahr läuft, stereotypische und klischeehafte geographische Imaginationen über Ostdeutschland zu reproduzieren und damit zu einer Stigmatisierung dieser Region beizutragen.
Kommunikativer Umgang mit Angst und Depressivität bei Krebspatienten im Arzt-Patienten-Gespräch
Authors: Weißflog Gregor , Götze Heide
Published: April 2023

Hintergrund

Viele Krebspatienten leiden im Verlauf ihrer Erkrankung und -behandlung, aber zum Teil auch Jahre nach Abschluss der Behandlung unter psychischen Belastungen wie Angst und Depressivität.

Ziel der Arbeit

Diese Übersichtsarbeit informiert auf der Basis des aktuellen Forschungsstands darüber, wie im Arzt-Patienten-Kontakt Symptome von Angst und Depression erkannt, schweregradmäßig eingeordnet und mithilfe adäquater Kommunikation gelindert werden können und bei Bedarf weitere Experten mit einbezogen werden („stepped care“).

Ergebnisse

Für eine erste valide Einschätzung von Angst und Depressivität liegen Screeninginstrumente vor, die leicht im persönlichen Arzt-Patienten-Gespräch einsetzbar sind. Eine patientenzentrierte Kommunikation hilft in Gesprächen der regulären onkologischen Versorgung, Angst und Depressivität der Patienten zu lindern. Diese Patientenzentrierung kann dabei u. a. durch adäquate Informationsbereitstellung, die Unterstützung der Patientenautonomie und auch durch die Förderung einer Toleranz für Ungewissheit kommunikativ mit Leben gefüllt werden. Konkret kann dies durch anxiolytisch und antidepressiv wirkende Kommunikationsstrategien und -techniken wie z. B. „pacing and leading“, Reorientierungsübungen und den Rückgriff auf „mastery“ erreicht werden. Des Weiteren wird im Beitrag ein Fokus auf das COMSKIL-Modell gerichtet, das einen theoretischen Rahmen für die konkreten Kommunikationstechniken bereitstellt. Es liegt ebenso als Kommunikationstrainingsprogramm für onkologisch Tätige vor. Vor dem Hintergrund des Stepped-care-Ansatzes ist es hilfreich, Patienten bei Bedarf über psychoonkologische Versorgungsangebote vor Ort informieren zu können.
Delivering transgender-specific knowledge and skills into health and allied health studies and training: a systematic review
Authors: Jecke L. , Zepf F. D.
Published: April 2023

Many transgender individuals face inequities, discrimination, and sometimes even a lack of transgender-specific knowledge in health care settings. Educational curricula can address such disparities and help future health professionals to become more knowledgeable, confident, and well-prepared for addressing the needs of transgender individuals. This systematic review aims to summarize current training interventions about care of transgender individuals for health and allied health students, and to analyse the effects of the respective intervention. A total of six databases (Pubmed, MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase and SciSearch) were screened for original articles published between 2017 and June 2021. Search terms and eligibility criteria were pre-specified, and after a structured selection process 21 studies were included into further analysis. Extracted data contained information on general study properties, population, design, program format and outcomes of interest. A narrative synthesis was used to summarize detected results. Study quality was assessed for each individual study. A self-developed 18-item checklist combining criteria of two prior published tools was used to assess overall quality of quantitative studies. For qualitative studies a 10-item checklist by Kmet et al. [HTA Initiat, 2004] was applied. Eligible studies were designed for multiple health or allied health profession students, and varied widely regarding program format, duration, content, and assessed outcomes. Almost all (N = 19) interventions indicated improvements in knowledge, attitude, confidence and comfort levels or practical skills concerning care for transgender clients. Major limitations included the lack of long-term data, validated assessment tools, control groups and comparative studies. Training interventions contribute to prepare future health professionals to deliver competent and sensitive care and which may improve the prospective experienced health care reality of transgender individuals. However, currently there is no common consensus about best practice of education. Additionally, little is known about whether detected effects of training interventions translate into noticeable improvements for transgender clients. Further studies are warranted to assess the direct impact of specific interventions in the light of the respective target populations.
Mesh quality agglomeration algorithm for the virtual element method applied to discrete fracture networks
Authors: Sorgente Tommaso , Vicini Fabio , Berrone Stefano , Biasotti Silvia , Manzini Gianmarco , Spagnuolo Michela
Published: April 2023

We propose a quality-based optimization strategy to reduce the total number of degrees of freedom associated with a discrete problem defined over a polygonal tessellation with the Virtual Element Method. The presented Quality Agglomeration algorithm relies only on the geometrical properties of the problem polygonal mesh, agglomerating groups of neighboring elements. We test this approach in the context of fractured porous media, in which the generation of a global conforming mesh on a Discrete Fracture Network leads to a considerable number of unknowns, due to the presence of highly complex geometries (e.g. thin triangles, large angles, small edges) and the significant size of the computational domains. We show the efficiency and the robustness of our approach, applied independently on each fracture for different network configurations, exploiting the flexibility of the Virtual Element Method in handling general polygonal elements.
A single institution’s experience with minimally invasive surgery for ovarian cancer, and a systematic meta-analysis of the literature
Authors: Kamei Yuji , Kobayashi Eiji , Nakatani Eiji , Shiomi Mayu , Sawada Masaaki , Kakuda Mamoru , Toda Aska , Nakagawa Satoshi , Hiramatsu Kosuke , Kinose Yasuto , Takiuchi Tsuyoshi , Miyoshi Ai , Kodama Michiko , Hashimoto Kae , Kimura Toshihiro , Ueda Yutaka , Sawada Kenjiro , Kimura Tadashi
Published: April 2023

Background

This study assesses the feasibility of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for well-selected epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) patients.

Methods

We performed a review of data prospectively collected from a single center from 2017 to 2022. Only patients with histologically confirmed EOC, with a tumor diameter of less than 10 cm, were eligible. We also performed a meta-analysis of similar studies comparing the outcomes of laparoscopy and laparotomy. We used MINORS (Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies) to assess the risk of bias and calculated the odds ratio or mean difference.

Results

Eighteen patients were included; 13 in re-staging group, four in PDS group, and one in IDS group. All achieved complete cytoreduction. One case was converted to laparotomy. The median number of removed pelvic lymph nodes was 25 (range 16–34), and 32 (range 19–44) for para-aortic nodes. There were two (15.4%) intraoperative urinary tract injuries. The median follow-up was 35 months (range 1–53). Recurrence was observed in one case (7.7%). Thirteen articles for early-stage ovarian cancer were included in our meta-analysis. Analysis of the pooled results found that MIS had a higher frequency of spillage (OR, 2.15; 95% CI 1.27–3.64). No differences were observed in recurrence, complications, or up-staging.

Conclusions

Our experience supports the possibility of conducting MIS for EOC in well-selected patients. Except for spillage, our meta-analysis findings are consistent with previous reports, the majority of which were also retrospective. Ultimately, randomized clinical trials will be needed to authenticate the safety.
Deontic signs increase control monitoring: evidence from a modified traffic flanker task
Authors: Garcia-Marques Teresa , Figueira Pedro , Fernandes Alexandre , Martins João
Published: April 2023

Deontic norms are expected to impose individuals’ control over their behavior. In this paper, we address such norms presented in traffic signs and test their influence over executive control functions. For Experiment 1, we develop a traffic flanker task in which the typical neutral arrows are replaced with traffic prohibition/obligation signs. Experiment 2 isolated the deontic aspect of the signs using simple arrows on red, blue, and green backgrounds and either primed them to be interpreted as traffic signs or as elements of a gaming console controller. Results in both studies show evidence of controlling context interferences more efficiently when dealing with deontic (traffic) signs than with simple arrows (Experiment 1) or with similar perceptive targets when primed with a deontic context than with a gaming context (Experiment 2). In both studies, obligation/blue signs mitigate flanker effects less than prohibition/red signs. Stimuli color affects the alertness of the cognitive system, with the color red being, by itself, a cue for increased control. Based on temporal analysis, we further discuss these results as evidence of an increase in proactive control that aims to prevent the occurrence of undesirable influence.
Australian Youth Mental Health and Climate Change Concern After the Black Summer Bushfires
Authors: Lykins Amy D. , Parsons Melissa , Craig Belinda M. , Cosh Suzanne M. , Hine Donald W. , Murray Clara
Published: April 2023

Climate change and its effects present notable challenges for mental health, particularly for vulnerable populations, including young people. Immediately following the unprecedented Black Summer bushfire season of 2019/2020, 746 Australians (aged 16–25 years) completed measures of mental health and perceptions of climate change. Results indicated greater presentations of depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment disorder symptoms, substance abuse, and climate change distress and concern, as well as lower psychological resilience and perceived distance to climate change, in participants with direct exposure to these bushfires. Findings highlight significant vulnerabilities of concern for youth mental health as climate change advances.
Optimal chemical defence allocation in roots: where, why and how?
Authors: Touw Axel J. , van Dam Nicole M.
Published: April 2023

Plants produce a range of volatile and non-volatile plant secondary metabolites (PSMs) to increase their resistance to biotic threats. The optimal defence allocation theory (ODT) states that the most valuable and vulnerable plant organs should be best defended against herbivory and therefore contain high concentrations of PSMs. However, the production of PSMs can come with metabolic and ecological costs and should be adjusted to the predictability and nature of biotic interactions to minimise interference with the ecological functions of the tissue. The ODT has recently been extended to explain PSM allocation patterns over root organs. Recent research has revealed that valuable but vulnerable root classes, such as taproots or adventitious roots, indeed have higher levels of anti-herbivory PSMs than lateral or fine roots. In this perspective, we analyse how interactions with soil organisms, including insect herbivores and microorganisms, may shape PSM allocation patterns in roots. We thereby focus on the Brassicaceae family and the glucosinolate-myrosinase defence system, but also highlight relevant studies in other species. We summarise the state-of-the-art knowledge of GSL distribution patterns over the plant body, discuss potential drivers of PSM allocation and discuss which mechanisms might regulate constitutive and induced PSM allocation patterns. Finally, we argue that implementing microbial interactions into ODT will improve our understanding of the eco-evolutionary drivers of plant–insect interactions.
Charting fields and spaces quantitatively: from multiple correspondence analysis to categorical principal components analysis
Authors: Atkinson Will
Published: April 2023

Multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) has started to gain popularity within sociology as a method of mapping ‘fields’ and ‘social spaces’ in the style of Pierre Bourdieu, its capacity to document multidimensional geometric relationships within data being a snug fit for the relational mode of thought he championed. There is a risk, however, of over-relying on MCA when the data suggest alternative methods and, as a result, drawing unsound conclusions. As a case in point, I take a recent analysis of political attitudes in the UK using MCA that drew bold inferences about the relationship with social class and reanalyse the same data with categorical principal components analysis (CatPCA). The results suggest the opposite conclusion to what was originally argued. I thus urge greater methodological flexibility and openness among those wishing to chart fields and social spaces and, more specifically, I make a case for CatPCA as a tool of geometric data analysis.
Ecosystem Vulnerability. New Semantics for International Law
Authors: Longo Mariano , Lorubbio Vincenzo
Published: April 2023

The effects of climate change and increasing environmental pollution have clearly shown the vulnerability of individuals, local communities, and the natural environment, even in the Western context. However, despite such unquestionable data, International Law is still struggling to find adequate, unambiguous, effective solutions to the issue. Even the ‘human right to a healthy environment’, recognised by the UN General Assembly in 2022, is permeated by an anthropocentric idea of the world, which prevents it from fully dealing with ecosystem issues so as to protect any living and non-living being. The paper starts by exploring the historical relevance of the concept of limit and the lack of boundaries in contemporary society, aiming to show that new semantics are needed, in order to overcome contemporary extractivism. An analysis of international legislation and jurisprudence will investigate the role that the concept of ecosystem vulnerability might play in the implementation of both human rights and the rights of nature.