bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The evidence of temporary social parasitism by Polyrhachis lamellidens (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) in a Camponotus obscuripes colony (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
Authors: Iwai H. , Kurihara Y. , Kono N. , Tomita M. , Arakawa K.
Published: August 2021

Polyrhachis lamellidens is a temporary socially parasitic ant whose new queen utilizes other ant species in the early stages of colony foundation. Field observations and rearing experiments suggest that Camponotus japonicus is a host species of P. lamellidens. It is presumed that Camponotus obscuripes is also a host of P. lamellidens by rearing experiments and field observations; however, there are no records of P. lamellidens workers or brood coexisting in C. obscuripes colonies in field observations, and there is no clear evidence that C. obscuripes is a natural host of P. lamellidens. We conducted detailed field observations, behavioral tests, and rearing experiments to show that C. obscuripes is a host of temporary social parasites. We found colonies with P. lamellidens queens, workers, and larvae intermixed with C. obscuripes workers in the field. Behavioral tests showed that workers of both species in mixed colonies did not attack each other and maintained nestmate recognition ability, which suggests a collaborative nestmate relationship. Furthermore, a rearing experiment confirmed social parasitism by P. lamellidens among C. obscuripes by producing a mixed brood-producing colony. These are the first field and laboratory records of temporary social parasitism involving P. lamellidens and C. obscuripes.
The effect of Covid-19 on the willingness to use video consultations among orthopedic and trauma outpatients: a multi-center survey in 1400 outpatients
Authors: Scherer Julian , Back David A. , Thienemann Friedrich , Kaufmann Ernest , Neuhaus Valentin , Willy Christian , Hepp Pierre , Pape Hans-Christoph , Osterhoff Georg
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, making more use of remote medical solutions has been advertised. The purpose of this study was to assess the willingness of orthopedic trauma patients to conduct an online video consultation (OVC) during the coronavirus pandemic compared to before.

Methods

A survey amongst orthopedic and trauma outpatients from three European trauma centers was conducted via paper-based questionnaires, composed of participants’ demographics and five open and closed questions between June and November 2019 and between April and July 2020 during Covid-19. The main outcome was the difference between the cohorts regarding the willingness to use an OVC, reasons for and against usage as well as advantages and disadvantages. Sub-analysis was performed for gender, participants’ occupation and three age groups (≤ 30 years; 31–55 years; > 55 years).

Results

1400 participants (780 preCovid-19 and 620 Covid-19) were included. There was no difference in willingness to conduct an OVC between the cohorts (57.6% versus 63.9%; p = 0.053). The highest disposition towards an OVC in both cohorts was seen in patients below 30 years of age, followed by 31–55 years and over 55 years. Women were significantly more likely in the Covid-19-group than in the preCovid-19-group to conduct an OVC (p = 0.032). Use of the OVC for “personal questions to the physician” was more often stated in the Covid-19-cohort (p = 0.007). “No danger of an infection” (p = 0.001) and “availability from anywhere” (p = 0.032) as advantages of an OVC were more often stated in the Covid-19-cohort. “No direct contact with the doctor” (p = 0.001) and “relationship to the doctor could change” (p = 0.024) as disadvantages of the OVC were less often stated in the Covid-19-cohort.

Conclusion

The majority of the assessed outpatients would use an OVC. Fear of infections have increased, and direct physical contact is less important since the Covid-19 pandemic, but have not increased the disposition for an OVC significantly.
Interobserver reliability is higher for assessments with 3D software-generated models than with conventional MRI images in the classification of trochlear dysplasia
Authors: Fuchs Andreas , Feucht Matthias J. , Dickschas Jörg , Frings Jannik , Siegel Markus , Yilmaz Tayfun , Schmal Hagen , Izadpanah Kaywan
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Trochlear dysplasia is a significant risk factor for patellofemoral instability. The severity of trochlear dysplasia is commonly evaluated based on the Dejour classification in axial MRI slices. However, this often leads to heterogeneous assessments. A software to generate MRI-based 3D models of the knee was developed to ensure more standardized visualization of knee structures. The purpose of this study was to assess the intra- and interobserver agreements of 2D axial MRI slices and an MRI-based 3D software generated model in classification of trochlear dysplasia as described by Dejour.

Methods

Four investigators independently assessed 38 axial MRI scans for trochlear dysplasia. Analysis was made according to Dejour’s 4 grade classification as well as differentiating between 2 grades: low-grade (types A + B) and high-grade trochlear dysplasia (types C + D). Assessments were repeated following a one-week interval. The inter- and intraobserver agreement was determined using Cohen’s kappa (κ) and Fleiss kappa statistic (κ). In addition, the proportion of observed agreement (po) was calculated for assessment of intraobserver agreement.

Results

The assessment of the intraobserver reliability with regard to the Dejour-classification showed moderate agreement values both in the 2D (κ = 0.59 ± 0.08 SD) and in the 3D analysis (κ = 0.57 ± 0.08 SD). Considering the 2-grade classification, the 2D (κ = 0.62 ± 0.12 SD) and 3D analysis (κ = 0.61 ± 0.19 SD) each showed good intraobserver matches. The analysis of the interobserver reliability also showed moderate agreement values with differences in the subgroups (2D vs. 3D). The 2D evaluation showed correspondences of κ = 0.48 (Dejour) and κ = 0.46 (high / low). In the assessment based on the 3D models, correspondence values of κ = 0.53 (Dejour) and κ = 0.59 (high / low) were documented.

Conclusion

Overall, moderate-to-good agreement values were found in all groups. The analysis of the intraobserver reliability showed no relevant differences between 2 and 3D representation, but better agreement values were found in the 2-degree classification. In the analysis of interobserver reliability, better agreement values were found in the 3D compared to the 2D representation. The clinical relevance of this study lies in the superiority of the 3D representation in the assessment of trochlear dysplasia, which is relevant for future analytical procedures as well as surgical planning.

Level of evidence

Level II.
Effects of caffeine ingestion on dynamic visual acuity: a placebo-controlled, double-blind, balanced-crossover study in low caffeine consumers
Authors: Redondo Beatríz , Jiménez Raimundo , Molina Rubén , Dalton Kristine , Vera Jesús
Published: August 2021

Background

Acute caffeine ingestion has been associated with improvements in cognitive performance and visual functioning. The main objective of this study was to determine the effects of caffeine intake on dynamic visual acuity (DVA).

Methods

Twenty-one low caffeine consumers (22.5 ± 1.6 years) took part in this placebo-controlled, double-blind, and balanced crossover study. In two different days and following a random order, participants ingested either caffeine (4 mg/kg) or placebo, and DVA was measured after 60 min of ingesting the corresponding capsule. A recently developed and validated software (moV& test, V&mp Vision Suite, Waterloo, Canada) was used to assess DVA.

Results

We found a greater accuracy for both the horizontal and random motion paths of DVA after caffeine ingestion (p < 0.001 and p = 0.002, respectively). In regard to the speed of the response, our data revealed that caffeine intake was associated with a faster reaction time for horizontally (p = 0.012) but not for randomly (p = 0.846) moving targets. Also, participants reported higher levels of perceived activation after consuming caffeine in comparison to placebo (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our data suggest that caffeine intake (i.e., a capsule containing 4 mg/kg) has an ergogenic effect on DVA, which may be of special relevance in real-word contexts that require to accurately and rapidly detect moving targets (e.g., sports, driving, or piloting).
Small-Scale Woodlot Growers’ Interest in Participating in Bioenergy Market In Rural Ethiopia
Authors: Nigussie Zerihun , Tsunekawa Atsushi , Haregeweyn Nigussie , Tsubo Mitsuru , Adgo Enyew , Ayalew Zemen , Abele Steffen
Published: August 2021

Production of value-added outputs from biomass residues represents an opportunity to increase the supply of renewable energy in Ethiopia. Particularly, agroforestry could provide biomass residues for improved bioenergy products. The aim of this study was to characterize the interest of growers to provide biomass residues to a hypothetical biomass feedstock market. This study relied on a survey conducted on a sample of 240 farmers. Although the awareness of potential biomass products was generally quite low, a majority of farmers expressed interest in supplying biomass residues, but the level of interest depended on certain individual socio-economic and demographic characteristics. For example, younger and female household heads were found to be more interested in participating in the hypothetical biomass market, as were households with an improved biomass stove, larger land holdings, and higher income levels. In addition, larger households and those that felt less vulnerable to firewood scarcity also expressed more interest. As a whole, the results imply that farmers, particularly those with younger and female heads of households, should be supported with programs tailored to ensure their inclusion in biomass supply chains. Respondents generally preferred farm-gate sales of biomass, so the collecting, baling, and transporting of woody residues need to be properly incentivized or new actors need to be recruited into the supply chain. Providing households with energy-efficient tools such as improved stoves would not only increase demand for biomass products, but also increase the amount of biomass residues that could be supplied to the market instead of used at home.
Allanite at high temperature: effect of REE on the thermal behaviour of epidote-group minerals
Authors: Gatta G. Diego , Pagliaro Francesco , Lotti Paolo , Guastoni Alessandro , Cañadillas-Delgado Laura , Fabelo Oscar , Gigli Lara
Published: August 2021

The thermal behaviour of a natural allanite-(Ce) has been investigated up to 1073 K (at room pressure) by means of in situ synchrotron powder X-ray diffraction and single-crystal neutron diffraction. Allanite preserves its crystallinity up to 1073 K. However, up to 700 K, the thermal behaviour along the three principal crystallographic axes, of the monoclinic β angle and of the unit-cell volume follow monotonically increasing trends, which are almost linear. At T > 700–800 K, a drastic change takes place: an inversion of the trend is observed along the a and b axes (more pronounced along b) and for the monoclinic β angle; in contrast, an anomalous increase of the expansion is observed along the c axis, which controls the positive trend experienced by the unit-cell volume at T > 700–800 K. Data collected back to room T, after the HT experiments, show unit-cell parameters significantly different with respect to those previously measured at 293 K: allanite responds with an ideal elastic behaviour up to 700 K, and at T > 700–800 K its behaviour deviates from the elasticity field. The thermo-elastic behaviour up to 700 K was modelled with a modified Holland–Powell EoS; for the unit-cell volume, we obtained the following parameters: VT0 = 467.33(6) Å3 and αT0(V) = 2.8(3) × 10–5 K−1. The thermal anisotropy, derived on the basis of the axial expansion along the three main crystallographic directions, is the following: αT0(a):αT0(b):αT0(c) = 1.08:1:1.36. The T-induced mechanisms, at the atomic scale, are described on the basis of the neutron structure refinements at different temperatures. Evidence of dehydroxylation effect at T ≥ 848 K are reported. A comparison between the thermal behaviour of allanite, epidote and clinozoisite is carried out.
Identifying epithelial borders in cholesteatoma surgery using narrow band imaging
Authors: Baazil Adrianus H. A. , Eggink Maura C. , De Wolf Maarten J. F. , Ebbens Fenna A. , Dikkers Frederik G. , van Spronsen Erik
Published: August 2021

Purpose

To quantify changes in the perceived epithelial border with narrow band imaging (NBI) and white light imaging (WLI) during cholesteatoma surgery and to objectify possible benefits of NBI in otology.

Methods

Perioperative digital endoscopic images were captured during combined approach tympanoplasty at our tertiary referral center using WLI and NBI (415 nm and 540 nm wavelengths). Sixteen otologic surgeon defined the epithelial borders within 16 identical WLI and NBI photos. Pixels of these selections were calculated to analyze the quantitative difference between WLI and NBI. A questionnaire also analyzed the qualitative differences.

Results

Sixteen otologic surgeons participated in the study. Stratified per photo, only two photos yielded a significant difference: less pixels were selected with NBI than WLI. A Bland–Altman plot showed no systemic error. Stratified per otologist, four participants selected significantly more pixels with WLI than with NBI. Overall, no significant difference between selected pixels was found. Sub-analyses of surgeons with more than 5 years of experience yielded no additional findings. Despite these results, 60% believed NBI could be advantageous in defining epithelial borders, of which 83% believed NBI could reduce the risk of residual disease.

Conclusion

There was no objective difference in the identification of epithelial borders with NBI compared to WLI in cholesteatoma surgery. Therefore, we do not expect the use of NBI to evidently decrease the risk of residual cholesteatoma. However, subjective assessment does suggest a possible benefit of lighting techniques in otology.

Level of evidence

3.
Investigation into the foundations of the track-event theory of cell survival and the radiation action model based on nanodosimetry
Authors: Ngcezu Sonwabile Arthur , Rabus Hans
Published: August 2021

This work aims at elaborating the basic assumptions behind the “track-event theory” (TET) and its derivate “radiation action model based on nanodosimetry” (RAMN) by clearly distinguishing between effects of tracks at the cellular level and the induction of lesions in subcellular targets. It is demonstrated that the model assumptions of Poisson distribution and statistical independence of the frequency of single and clustered DNA lesions are dispensable for multi-event distributions because they follow from the Poisson distribution of the number of tracks affecting the considered target volume. It is also shown that making these assumptions for the single-event distributions of the number of lethal and sublethal lesions within a cell would lead to an essentially exponential dose dependence of survival for practically relevant values of the absorbed dose. Furthermore, it is elucidated that the model equation used for consideration of repair within the TET is based on the assumption that DNA lesions induced by different tracks are repaired independently. Consequently, the model equation is presumably inconsistent with the model assumptions and requires an additional model parameter. Furthermore, the methodology for deriving model parameters from nanodosimetric properties of particle track structure is critically assessed. Based on data from proton track simulations it is shown that the assumption of statistically independent targets leads to the prediction of negligible frequency of clustered DNA damage. An approach is outlined how track structure could be considered in determining the model parameters, and the implications for TET and RAMN are discussed.
Population genetic analysis of 12 X-chromosomal STRs in a Swiss sample
Authors: Bottinelli Michel , Gouy Alexandre , Utz Silvia , Zieger Martin
Published: August 2021

X-chromosomal STRs are a powerful tool to assess a broad variety of complex kinship scenarios. We introduce herewith the first Swiss X-STR dataset based on 1198 individuals (592 female, 606 male), characterized with the Qiagen Investigator® Argus X-12 QS multiplex kit. Anomalous allele patterns, allele and haplotype frequencies, and forensic and population genetic parameters are presented. We detected linkage disequilibrium within three out of the four designated linkage groups and no apparent intra-national population substructure. We compared the dataset to a global panel of X-STR datasets and it fits well in the European context, as expected.
Obstructive sleep apnoea in women with idiopathic intracranial hypertension: a sub-study of the idiopathic intracranial hypertension weight randomised controlled trial (IIH: WT)
Authors: Yiangou Andreas , Mitchell James L. , Nicholls Matthew , Chong Yu Jeat , Vijay Vivek , Wakerley Benjamin R. , Lavery Gareth G. , Tahrani Abd A. , Mollan Susan P. , Sinclair Alexandra J.
Published: August 2021

Objective

Obesity is a risk factor for idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) and obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). We aimed to determine the prevalence of OSA in IIH and evaluate the diagnostic performance of OSA screening tools in IIH. Additionally, we evaluated the relationship between weight loss, OSA and IIH over 12 months.

Methods

A sub-study of a multi-centre, randomised controlled parallel group trial comparing the impact of bariatric surgery vs. community weight management intervention (CWI) on IIH-related outcomes over 12 months (IIH:WT). OSA was assessed using home-based polygraphy (ApneaLink Air, ResMed) at baseline and 12 months. OSA was defined as an apnoea–hypopnoea index (AHI) ≥ 15 or ≥ 5 with excessive daytime sleepiness (Epworth Sleepiness Scale ≥11 ).

Results

Of the 66 women in the IIH: WT trial, 46 were included in the OSA sub-study. OSA prevalence was 47% (n = 19). The STOP-BANG had the highest sensitivity (84%) compared to the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (69%) and Berlin (68%) to detect OSA. Bariatric surgery resulted in greater reductions in AHI vs. CWI (median [95%CI] AHI reduction of  – 2.8 [ – 11.9, 0.7], p = 0.017). Over 12 months there was a positive association between changes in papilloedema and AHI (r = 0.543, p = 0.045), despite adjustment for changes in the body mass index (R2 = 0.522, p = 0.017).

Conclusion

OSA is common in IIH and the STOP-BANG questionnaire was the most sensitive screening tool. Bariatric surgery improved OSA in patients with IIH. The improvement in AHI was associated with improvement in papilloedema independent of weight loss. Whether OSA treatment has beneficial impact on papilloedema warrants further evaluation.

Trial registration number

IIH: WT is registered as ISRCTN40152829 and on ClinicalTrials.gov as NCT02124486 (28/04/2014).
Interactions of occult tumor spread and surgical technique on overall and disease-free survival in patients operated for stage I and II right-sided colon cancer
Authors: Banipal G. S. , Stimec B. V. , Andersen S. N. , Faerden A. E. , Edwin B. , Baral J. , Benth J. Šaltytė , Ignjatovic D. ,   The RCC study group, Oresland Tom , Bakka Arne O , Thorsen Yngve , Negaard Anne , Nesgaard Jens Marius , Jacobsen Russel , von Brandis Kari Mette Langerød , Hansen Tania , Suhrke Pål , Luzon Javier Armando , Sevinç Barış , Andersen Bjarte Tidemann , Bergamaschi Roberto , Schneider Ulrich , Ruiz Marcos Gomez , Kjaestad Erik , Bemanian Vahid , Ghotbi Jacob , Dyrbekk Anne Pernille H.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

To determine if “medial to lateral” (ML) dissection with devascularization first is superior to “lateral to medial” (LM) dissection regarding numbers of lymph node micro metastases (MM) and isolated tumor cells (ITC) as well as 5-year disease-free (5YDFS) and 5-year overall survival (5YOS) in stage I/II right-sided colon cancer.

Methods

Two datasets are used. ML group consists of consecutive stage I/II patients from a prospective trial. LM group is the original dataset from a previous publication. All harvested lymph nodes are examined with monoclonal antibody CAM 5.2 (immunohistochemically). Lymph node harvest and 5YOS/5YDFS were compared between ML/LM groups, stage I/II tumors and MM/ITC presence/absence.

Results

117 patients included ML:51, LM:66. MM/ITC positive in ML 37.3% (19/51), LM 31.8% (21/66) p = 0.54. The 5YDFS for patients in ML 70.6% and LM 69.7%, p = 0.99, 5YOS: 74.5% ML and 71.2% LM (p = 0.73). No difference in 5YDFS/5YOS between groups for Stage I/II tumors; however, LM group had an excess of early tumors (16) when compared to ML group, while lymph node harvest was significantly higher in ML group (p < 0.01) 15.1 vs 26.7. 5YDFS and 5YOS stratified by MM/ITC presence/absence was 67.5%/71.4%, p = 0.63, and 75.0%/71.4%, p = 0.72, respectively. Death due to recurrence in MM/ITC positive was significantly higher than MM/ITC negative (p = 0.012).

Conclusion

Surgical technique does not influence numbers of MM/ITC or 5YDFS/5YOS. Presence of MM/ITC does not affect 5YOS/5YDFS but can be a potential prognostic factor for death due to recurrence.

Clinical trial

Safe Radical D3 Right Hemicolectomy for Cancer through Preoperative Biphasic Multi-Detector Computed Tomography (MDCT) Angiography” registered at http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01351714 .
Glochidial infection by the endangered Margaritifera margaritifera (Mollusca) increased survival of salmonid host (Pisces) during experimental Flavobacterium disease outbreak
Authors: Chowdhury M. Motiur R. , Roy Amitav , Auvinen Kalle , Pulkkinen Katja , Suonia Hanna , Taskinen Jouni
Published: August 2021

Co-infections are common in host-parasite interactions, but studies about their impact on the virulence of parasites/diseases are still scarce. The present study compared mortality induced by a fatal bacterial pathogen, Flavobacterium columnare between brown trout infected with glochidia from the endangered freshwater pearl mussel, Margaritifera margaritifera, and uninfected control fish during the parasitic period and after the parasitic period (i.e. glochidia detached) in a laboratory experiment. We hypothesised that glochidial infection would increase host susceptibility to and/or pathogenicity of the bacterial infection. We found that the highly virulent strain of F. columnare caused an intense disease outbreak, with mortality reaching 100% within 29 h. Opposite to the study hypothesis, both fresh ongoing and past infection (14 months post-infection) with glochidia prolonged the fish host’s survival statistically significantly by 1 h compared to the control fish (two-way ANOVA: fresh-infection, F1, 82 = 7.144, p = 0.009 and post-infection, F1, 51 = 4.227, p = 0.044). Furthermore, fish survival time increased with glochidia abundance (MLR: post-infection, t = 2.103, p = 0.045). The mechanism could be connected to an enhanced non-specific immunity or changed gill structure of the fish, as F. columnare enters the fish body mainly via the gills, which is also the glochidia’s attachment site. The results increase current knowledge about the interactions between freshwater mussels and their (commercially important) fish hosts and fish pathogens and also emphasise the importance of (unknown) ecosystem services (e.g., protection against pathogens) potentially associated with imperilled freshwater mussels.
Behavioral effects of wolf presence on moose habitat selection: testing the landscape of fear hypothesis in an anthropogenic landscape
Authors: Sand Håkan , Jamieson Mark , Andrén Henrik , Wikenros Camilla , Cromsigt Joris , Månsson Johan
Published: August 2021

Landscape of fear refers to the spatial variation in prey perception of predation risk, that under certain conditions, may lead to changes in their behavior. Behavioral responses of prey in relation to large carnivore predation risk have mainly been conducted in areas with low anthropogenic impact. We used long-term data on the distribution of moose in different habitat types in a system characterized by intensive management of all three trophic levels (silviculture, harvest of wolves and moose) to study effects on moose habitat selection resulting from the return of an apex predator, the wolf. We assumed that coursing predators such as wolves will cause an increased risk for moose in some habitat types and tested the hypotheses that moose will avoid open or young forest habitats following wolf establishment. After wolf recolonization, moose reduced their use of one type of open habitat (bog) but there was neither change in the use of the other open habitat type (clear-cut), nor in their use of young forest. Wolf establishment did not influence the use of habitat close to dense habitat when being in open habitats. Thus, the effect of wolves varied among habitat types and there was no unidirectional support for a behavioral effect of wolves’ establishment on moose habitat use. Human-driven habitat heterogeneity, concentration of moose forage to certain habitat types, and the effects of a multiple predator guild on moose may all contribute to the results found. We conclude that the landscape of fear is likely to have weak ecological effects on moose in this system.
Immersed boundary-conformal isogeometric method for linear elliptic problems
Authors: Wei Xiaodong , Marussig Benjamin , Antolin Pablo , Buffa Annalisa
Published: August 2021

We present a novel isogeometric method, namely the Immersed Boundary-Conformal Method (IBCM), that features a layer of discretization conformal to the boundary while employing a simple background mesh for the remaining domain. In this manner, we leverage the geometric flexibility of the immersed boundary method with the advantages of a conformal discretization, such as intuitive control of mesh resolution around the boundary, higher accuracy per degree of freedom, automatic satisfaction of interface kinematic conditions, and the ability to strongly impose Dirichlet boundary conditions. In the proposed method, starting with a boundary representation of a geometric model, we extrude it to obtain a corresponding conformal layer. Next, a given background B-spline mesh is cut with the conformal layer, leading to two disconnected regions: an exterior region and an interior region. Depending on the problem of interest, one of the two regions is selected to be coupled with the conformal layer through Nitsche’s method. Such a construction involves Boolean operations such as difference and union, which therefore require proper stabilization to deal with arbitrarily cut elements. In this regard, we follow our precedent work called the minimal stabilization method (Antolin et al in SIAM J Sci Comput 43(1):A330–A354, 2021). In the end, we solve several 2D benchmark problems to demonstrate improved accuracy and expected convergence with IBCM. Two applications that involve complex geometries are also studied to show the potential of IBCM, including a spanner model and a fiber-reinforced composite model. Moreover, we demonstrate the effectiveness of IBCM in an application that exhibits boundary-layer phenomena.
Functional ANOVA approaches for detecting changes in air pollution during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Acal Christian , Aguilera Ana M. , Sarra Annalina , Evangelista Adelia , Di Battista Tonio , Palermi Sergio
Published: August 2021

Faced with novel coronavirus outbreak, the most hard-hit countries adopted a lockdown strategy to contrast the spread of virus. Many studies have already documented that the COVID-19 control actions have resulted in improved air quality locally and around the world. Following these lines of research, we focus on air quality changes in the urban territory of Chieti-Pescara (Central Italy), identified as an area of criticality in terms of air pollution. Concentrations of $$\hbox {NO}_{{2}}$$

NO
2

, $$\hbox {PM}_{{10}}$$

PM
10

, $$\hbox {PM}_{2.5}$$

PM

2.5

and benzene are used to evaluate air pollution changes in this Region. Data were measured by several monitoring stations over two specific periods: from 1st February to 10 th March 2020 (before lockdown period) and from 11st March 2020 to 18 th April 2020 (during lockdown period). The impact of lockdown on air quality is assessed through functional data analysis. Our work makes an important contribution to the analysis of variance for functional data (FANOVA). Specifically, a novel approach based on multivariate functional principal component analysis is introduced to tackle the multivariate FANOVA problem for independent measures, which is reduced to test multivariate homogeneity on the vectors of the most explicative principal components scores. Results of the present study suggest that the level of each pollutant changed during the confinement. Additionally, the differences in the mean functions of all pollutants according to the location and type of monitoring stations (background vs traffic), are ascribable to the $$\hbox {PM}_{{10}}$$

PM
10

and benzene concentrations for pre-lockdown and during-lockdown tenure, respectively. FANOVA has proven to be beneficial to monitoring the evolution of air quality in both periods of time. This can help environmental protection agencies in drawing a more holistic picture of air quality status in the area of interest.
“So, when a woman becomes ill, the total structure of the family is affected, they can’t do anything…” Voices from the community on women with breast cancer in India: a qualitative focus group study
Authors: Daniel Sunitha , Venkateswaran Chitra , Singh Charu , Hutchinson Ann , Johnson Miriam J.
Published: August 2021

Background

Psychological symptoms are common in women with breast cancer and profoundly affect their role in the family and wider community, varying across cultural backgrounds. Breast cancer is becoming the most common cancer among women in India. We aimed to understand the cultural context within which Indian women with breast cancer living in India, experience psychological concerns from the perspectives of healthcare professionals, volunteers and church members.

Methods

Five focus groups were conducted in South India (clinicians (2 groups)) lay public (3 groups). A topic guide was explored: understanding of breast cancer, experiences of patients with regard to diagnosis and treatment and psychological impact. Groups were audio-recorded and verbatim transcribed. Lay groups were conducted in Malayalam with translation and back-translation. Transcripts were subjected to thematic analysis using “cultural task analysis” as a lens for analysis.

Results

Forty-five (oncologists (5), nurses (10), church members (16) and community volunteers working in a palliative care unit (14) participated. Three major themes psychosocial issues related to diagnosis, psychosocial impact of cancer treatment and coping with diagnosis and treatment and nine subthemes emerged from the two groups. All described psychological impact on women with breast cancer including body image, change of family role and their need for support. Family and faith were recognised as the major framework providing key support but also significant stress. Clinicians were also concerned about financial implications and issues around early cancer detection. Laypeople and nurses also commented that poor communication and lack of empathy from doctors aggravated distress.

Conclusion

Clinical and lay communities were aware of the widespread psychological impact affecting women with breast cancer which are amplified by the patriarchal context within which they live, which extends into clinical practice. Family and faith provide a strong support structure and are a cause of distress, as core roles and expectations are challenged by this disease of womanhood.
The Forward-Plane Star in $$^1$$H(d, pp)n Breakup at E$$_{{{\varvec{d}}}}=\mathbf{80}$$ MeV/nucleon
Authors: Wilczek A. , Szadziński A. , Kalantar-Nayestanaki N. , Kistryn St. , Kozela A. , Skwira-Chalot I. , Stephan E.
Published: August 2021

Analysis of the data acquired with the BINA detector system in $$^1$$

1

H(d, pp)n reaction at the beam energy of 80 MeV/nucleon makes a systematic analysis of the star configurations possible. This paper shows the preliminary cross section of the Forward-Plane Star (FPS) configuration with the neighbouring configurations.
Autologous platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) augmentation as an add-on therapy in deep surgical site infections (dSSIs) after instrumented spinal surgery: preliminary results of a single institution case series
Authors: Vasilikos Ioannis , Roelz Roland , Scholz Christoph , Mizaikoff Boris , Argiti Katerina , Ralf Watzlawick , Giagkos Georgios-Christos , Fragkakis Evangelos M. , Ghanaati Shahram , Beck Jürgen , Hubbe Ulrich
Published: August 2021

Background

Deep surgical site infections (dSSIs) after instrumented spinal surgery pose major therapeutic challenges. Standard treatment involves surgical debridement, wound drainage, and long-term antibiotic administration. Autologous platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) constitutes a biomaterial obtained from patients’ own blood that contains leukocytes, chemokines and growth factors boosting cicatrization. Due to favorable results reported from other surgical disciplines such as dentistry, orthopedics, maxillofacial and plastic surgery using PRF, the authors hypothesized that PRF augmentation will promote wound healing in dSSIs.

Objective

To report our preliminary results on the safety and efficacy of autologous-PRF as an add-on therapy on a pilot case series of persistent dSSI after instrumented spinal surgery.

Methods

Among the 293 patients who underwent dorsal decompression and stabilization of the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine due to degenerative diseases in our department, 12 patients (4%) presented persisting dSSI after standard wound debridement and antibiotic treatment. PRF augmentation was used during a second surgical revision as an add-on therapy to standard debridement. In all cases, the wound was primarily closed without drains.

Results

Wound healing was completed between 14 and 21 days after the second surgical revision in all patients. At a median follow-up of 8 months (range: 6 to 18 months), no recurrence of dSSI nor complications were encountered in any case.

Conclusions

Our preliminary results suggest that PRF augmentation in persistent dSSI after instrumented spinal surgery appears to be a safe and effective strategy to promote wound healing. Prospective controlled studies are required to define the efficiency of PRF more clearly in both treating and preventing dSSI.
Three-way interaction effects of early life stress, positive parenting and FKBP5 in the development of depressive symptoms in a general population
Authors: Keijser Rebecka , Olofsdotter Susanne , Nilsson Kent W. , Åslund Cecilia
Published: August 2021

FKBP5 gene–environment interaction (cG × E) studies have shown diverse results, some indicating significant interaction effects between the gene and environmental stressors on depression, while others lack such results. Moreover, FKBP5 has a potential role in the diathesis stress and differential susceptibility theorem. The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether a cG × E interaction effect of FKBP5 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) or haplotype and early life stress (ELS) on depressive symptoms among young adults was moderated by a positive parenting style (PASCQpos), through the frameworks of the diathesis stress and differential susceptibility theorem. Data were obtained from the Survey of Adolescent Life in Västmanland Cohort Study, including 1006 participants and their guardians. Data were collected during 2012, when the participants were 13 and 15 years old (Wave I: DNA), 2015, when participants were 16 and 18 years old (Wave II: PASCQpos, depressive symptomology and ELS) and 2018, when participants were 19 and 21 years old (Wave III: depressive symptomology). Significant three-way interactions were found for the FKBP5 SNPs rs1360780, rs4713916, rs7748266 and rs9394309, moderated by ELS and PASCQpos, on depressive symptoms among young adults. Diathesis stress patterns of interaction were observed for the FKBP5 SNPs rs1360780, rs4713916 and rs9394309, and differential susceptibility patterns of interaction were observed for the FKBP5 SNP rs7748266. Findings emphasize the possible role of FKBP5 in the development of depressive symptoms among young adults and contribute to the understanding of possible differential susceptibility effects of FKBP5.
A systematic approach to nonresonance conditions for periodically forced planar Hamiltonian systems
Authors: Fabry Christian , Fonda Alessandro
Published: August 2021

In the first part of the paper we consider periodic perturbations of some planar Hamiltonian systems. In a general setting, we detect conditions ensuring the existence and multiplicity of periodic solutions. In the second part, the same ideas are used to deal with some more general planar differential systems.
Treibhausgasneutralität 2045/2050: Verschärfung der nationalen und der europäischen Klimaziele
Authors: Schiffer Hans-Wilhelm
Published: August 2021

Auf nationaler und auf europäischer Ebene sind die zuvor bestehenden Klimaziele deutlich verschärft worden. Die neuen Vorgaben, mit denen in Deutschland 2045 und in der EU27 bis 2050 Treibhausgasneutralität erreicht werden soll, werden ebenso dargestellt wie die Instrumente, mit denen die Bundesregierung und die EU diesen Zielen gerecht zu werden beabsichtigen. In dem „Fit for 55 Package“, das die EU-Kommission am 14. Juli 2021 vorgeschlagen hat, wird zur Vermeidung von Carbon Leakage die Einführung eines „Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism“ (CBAM) vorgeschlagen. Die Eckpunkte dieses Vorschlags werden skizziert und einer Bewertung unterzogen. Allerdings wäre eine internationale Verständigung auf einen CO2-Mindestpreis innerhalb der G20 dem von der EU-Kommission befürworteten CBAM deutlich überlegen.
Effects of Uncertainty of Outlet Boundary Conditions in a Patient-Specific Case of Aortic Coarctation
Authors: Antonuccio Maria Nicole , Mariotti Alessandro , Fanni Benigno Marco , Capellini Katia , Capelli Claudio , Sauvage Emilie , Celi Simona
Published: August 2021

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations of blood flow are widely used to compute a variety of hemodynamic indicators such as velocity, time-varying wall shear stress, pressure drop, and energy losses. One of the major advances of this approach is that it is non-invasive. The accuracy of the cardiovascular simulations depends directly on the level of certainty on input parameters due to the modelling assumptions or computational settings. Physiologically suitable boundary conditions at the inlet and outlet of the computational domain are needed to perform a patient-specific CFD analysis. These conditions are often affected by uncertainties, whose impact can be quantified through a stochastic approach. A methodology based on a full propagation of the uncertainty from clinical data to model results is proposed here. It was possible to estimate the confidence associated with model predictions, differently than by deterministic simulations. We evaluated the effect of using three-element Windkessel models as the outflow boundary conditions of a patient-specific aortic coarctation model. A parameter was introduced to calibrate the resistances of the Windkessel model at the outlets. The generalized Polynomial Chaos method was adopted to perform the stochastic analysis, starting from a few deterministic simulations. Our results show that the uncertainty of the input parameter gave a remarkable variability on the volume flow rate waveform at the systolic peak simulating the conditions before the treatment. The same uncertain parameter had a slighter effect on other quantities of interest, such as the pressure gradient. Furthermore, the results highlight that the fine-tuning of Windkessel resistances is not necessary to simulate the post-stenting scenario.
Turbulence Characteristics Across a Range of Idealized Urban Canopy Geometries
Authors: Blunn Lewis P. , Coceal Omduth , Nazarian Negin , Barlow Janet F. , Plant Robert S. , Bohnenstengel Sylvia I. , Lean Humphrey W.
Published: August 2021

Good representation of turbulence in urban canopy models is necessary for accurate prediction of momentum and scalar distribution in and above urban canopies. To develop and improve turbulence closure schemes for one-dimensional multi-layer urban canopy models, turbulence characteristics are investigated here by analyzing existing large-eddy simulation and direct numerical simulation data. A range of geometries and flow regimes are analyzed that span packing densities of 0.0625 to 0.44, different building array configurations (cubes and cuboids, aligned and staggered arrays, and variable building height), and different incident wind directions ($$0^\circ $$

0
∘

and $$45^\circ $$

45
∘

with regards to the building face). Momentum mixing-length profiles share similar characteristics across the range of geometries, making a first-order momentum mixing-length turbulence closure a promising approach. In vegetation canopies turbulence is dominated by mixing-layer eddies of a scale determined by the canopy-top shear length scale. No relationship was found between the depth-averaged momentum mixing length within the canopy and the canopy-top shear length scale in the present study. By careful specification of the intrinsic averaging operator in the canopy, an often-overlooked term that accounts for changes in plan area density with height is included in a first-order momentum mixing-length turbulence closure model. For an array of variable-height buildings, its omission leads to velocity overestimation of up to $$17\%$$

17
%

. Additionally, we observe that the von Kármán coefficient varies between 0.20 and 0.51 across simulations, which is the first time such a range of values has been documented. When driving flow is oblique to the building faces, the ratio of dispersive to turbulent momentum flux is larger than unity in the lower half of the canopy, and wake production becomes significant compared to shear production of turbulent momentum flux. It is probable that dispersive momentum fluxes are more significant than previously thought in real urban settings, where the wind direction is almost always oblique.
Applications of cellulose-based agents for flocculation processes: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Barrero-Fernández Alejandro , Aguado Roberto , Moral Ana , Brindley Celeste , Ballesteros Menta
Published: August 2021

Not surprisingly, cellulose-based agents for wastewater treatments, and more precisely for coagulation-flocculation processes, raise growing interest, boosted not only by the high availability, functionality, renewability, and biodegradability of cellulose, but also by the outstanding performance of their derivatives. The analysis of 460 publications including review papers, research articles and book chapters, among others, reveals a multidisciplinary approach, where the fields Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Environmental Science play a major role. In terms of institutions, some of the most relevant contributors are the Wuhan University, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, to name a few. The most relevant journals were found to be Carbohydrate Polymers, International Journal of Applied Polymer Science and Cellulose. An analysis of 332 keywords allowed us to classify works into three major clusters (besides two minor ones): one mostly defined by cellulose and coagulation; a second one championed by flocculation and cellulose derivatives; and a third one including wastewater treatment and polysaccharides. While the evolution of the scientific production leaves little doubt about it, as depicted in this bibliometric study, this is the first work providing an in-depth assessment and classification of the literature on cellulose for particle aggregation purposes.
Towards regenerated cellulose fibers with high toughness
Authors: Moriam Kaniz , Sawada Daisuke , Nieminen Kaarlo , Hummel Michael , Ma Yibo , Rissanen Marja , Sixta Herbert
Published: August 2021

The production of sustainable and high-performance fabrics requires high mechanical strength of the individual (staple) fibers. Although Ioncell fibers already exhibit higher fiber strength than commercial man-made cellulose fibers or cotton fibers, we further aimed to increase both strength and toughness to gradually approach synthetic fibers in these properties. Decisive factors for the achievable mechanical properties of the fibers were the pulp purity, the cellulose concentration in the spinning solution and length-to-diameter (L/D) ratio of the cylindrical part of the spinneret. The absence of low molecular weight fractions in combination with an increased average molecular weight had the highest impact on the achievement of both high strength and toughness. Using a spinneret with a high L/D ratio, it was possible to spin Ioncell fibers with a tensile strength of 925 MPa (61.5 cN/tex) and a modulus of toughness of 83.3 MPa (55.5 J/g). According to a fluid dynamic simulation, uniformly longer molecular cellulose chains in combination with a longer cylindrical capillary promoted an effective alignment of the cellulose molecules inside the spinneret capillary before entering the airgap, thus creating the conditions for a simultaneous increase in tensile strength and elongation i.e. toughness of the fiber. Mechanistically, high fiber toughness is caused by the structural parameters in longitudinal direction, in particular by a higher tilt angle, a longer periodicity of the lamellar plane and lower micro void orientation. In summary, we have developed lyocell-type fibers with high strength and toughness, which can potentially be used as a surrogate for synthetic fibers.

Graphic abstract
Treatment Approach and Sequence Effects in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Targeting Emotion Regulation Among Adolescents with Externalizing Problems and Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: te Brinke Lysanne W. , Schuiringa Hilde D. , Menting Ankie T. A. , Deković Maja , Westera Johanna J. , de Castro Bram O.
Published: August 2021

Background

Over the past years, it has become clear that adapted cognitive behavior therapy can be effective for adolescents with externalizing problems and mild intellectual disabilities or borderline intellectual functioning (MID–BIF). Most adapted treatment protocols consist, however, of a combined cognitive and behavioral approach, even though it is actually unclear which approach is most suitable for these adolescents. This experimental study aimed to examine which treatment approach (cognitive versus behavioral) and which treatment sequence (cognitive–behavioral versus behavioral–cognitive) is most effective.

Methods

Participating adolescents (N = 42, 50% boys, Mage = 15.52, SD = 1.43) consecutively received a cognitive and behavioral emotion regulation training module, but were randomly assigned to a different module sequence condition. Emotion regulation and externalizing problems were measured before and after the modules, and with continuing weekly assessments.

Results

Results indicated that the cognitive module, by itself, was more effective than the behavioral module. In addition, the results indicated that it is most effective to include behavioral exercises after (rather than before) cognitive training.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the importance of cognitive treatment approaches for adolescents with MID–BIF, and show that treatment approaches may have different effects, depending on the order in which they are presented.