bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynparity: Dynamic disparity adjustment to avoid stereo window violations on stationary stereoscopic displays
Authors: Schröder‐Dering Christoph , Zachmann Gabriel , Weller René
Published: August 2022

We propose a novel method to avoid stereo window violations at screen borders. These occur for objects in front of the zero parallax plane, which appear in front of the (physical) screen, and that are clipped for one eye while still being visible for the other eye. This contradicts other stereo cues, particularly disparity, potentially resulting in eye strain and simulator sickness. In interactive and dynamic virtual environments, where the user controls the camera, for example, via head tracking, it is impossible to avoid stereo window violations completely. We propose Dynparity, a novel rendering method to eliminate the conflict between clipping and negative disparity, by introducing a nonuniform stereoscopic projection. For each vertex in front of the zero parallax plane, we compute the stereoscopic projection such that the parallax approaches zero toward the edge of the screen. Our approach works entirely on the GPU in real‐time and can be easily included in modern game engines. We conducted a user study comparing our method to the standard stereo projection on a large‐screen stereo wall with head tracking. Our results show significantly reduced simulator sickness when using Dynparity compared to the standard stereo rendering.
DNA Stability in Biodosimetry, Pharmacy and DNA Based Data‐Storage: Optimal Storage and Handling Conditions
Authors: Cordsmeier Leo , Hahn Marc Benjamin
Published: August 2022

DNA long‐term stability and integrity is of importance for applications in DNA based bio‐dosimetry, data‐storage, pharmaceutical quality‐control, donor insemination and DNA based functional nanomaterials. Standard protocols for these applications involve repeated freeze‐thaw cycles of the DNA, which can cause detrimental damage to the nucleobases, as well as the sugar‐phosphate backbone and therefore the whole molecule. Throughout the literature three hypotheses can be found about the underlying mechanisms occurring during freeze‐thaw cycles. It is hypothesized that DNA single‐strand breaks during freezing can be induced by mechanical stress leading to shearing of the DNA molecule, by acidic pH causing damage through depurination and beta elimination or by the presence of metal ions catalyzing oxidative damageviareactive oxygen species (ROS). Here we test these hypotheses under well defined conditions with plasmid DNA pUC19 in high‐purity buffer (1xPBS) at physiological salt and pH 7.4 conditions, under pH 6 and in the presence of metal ions in combination with the radical scavengers DMSO and Ectoine. The results show for the 2686 bp long plasmid DNA, that neither mechanical stress, nor pH 6 lead to degradation during repeated freeze‐thaw cycles. In contrast, the presence of metal ions (Fe2+) leads to degradation of DNAviathe production of radical species.
A case of COVID‐19 with pernio‐like skin lesions and increased red blood cell distribution width
Authors: Minakawa Satoko , Matsuzaki Yasushi , Terada Akari , Ogasawara Shu , Nishiya Yuki , Irie Jin , Ishizawa Yoshiya , Hanada Hiroyuki , Sawamura Daisuke
Published: August 2022

Heparin resistance has been observed in patients with active severe COVID‐19 infection. The red blood cell distribution (RDW), a component of the complete blood count that reflects cellular volume variation, has been shown to be associated with elevated risk for morbidity and mortality in a wide range of diseases. Cutaneous manifestations, RDW, and levels of LD and D‐dimer might be useful biomarkers in triage of patients with COVID‐19.
Comparative Lifecycle Assessment of Methanol and Urea Produced from Steel Mill Gases
Authors: Gaikwad Ankur , Maga Daniel , Schlüter Stefan
Published: August 2022

The Carbon2Chem® project aims to utilize the process gases of commodity industrial sectors, e.g., steel mills as carbon source for chemicals industrial sector. This article examines the integrated production of steel and chemical considering five different designs for methanol production and two for urea production. The impacts of the integrated production of steel and chemicals (methanol, urea) are compared to the conventional production of steel and respective chemical. Employing Carbon2Chem® technologies in a steelmaking facility in 2030 provides clear advantages in all investigated scenarios for global warming impact, even after taking into account the additional input of natural gas to substitute the steel mill gases in the power plant. Optimizing the demand of external hydrogen is the key to minimizing the global warming impact of the chemicals. When using wind power, total greenhouse gas emissions can be almost halved in the case of methanol and reduced to one‐third in the case of urea.
Development and validation of the food availability and related eating behaviors questionnaire: A stage 1 registered report
Authors: Karvay Yvette G. , Guarecuco Jill Stadterman , Feuerstahler Leah , Burke Natasha L.
Published: August 2022

Objective

Historically, eating disorder research has excluded marginalized and underserved populations, such as those with food insecurity (which also impacts higher numbers of Black/African American and Latinx communities). However, burgeoning research suggests an association between food insecurity and the development of eating disorder pathology. Examining patterns of food availability and related eating behaviors may elucidate the association between food insecurity and eating disorder pathology. However, to date, there are no comprehensive measures that accurately capture food availability patterns and related eating behaviors.

Method

In Study 1, 40 participants (20 adolescents, 20 adults) will respond to and provide qualitative feedback on the Food Availability and Related Eating Behaviors Questionnaire (FAREB‐Q). In study 2, 50 participants (approximately 25 with and without food insecurity) will complete the FAREB‐Q at two time‐points, and respond to questions about food insecurity, disordered eating, and every day stress to assess the FAREB‐Q's reliability and validity.

Results

Results will clarify whether the FAREB‐Q is a reliable and valid instrument that measures food availability and related eating behavior patterns.

Discussion

The present study aims to develop, pilot, and examine the psychometric properties of the FAREB‐Q, a self‐report measure examining food availability and related eating behaviors in community populations.

Public Significance

The novel FAREB‐Q assesses food availability and related eating patterns in the general community. The FAREB‐Q will be reviewed by experts in disordered eating, food insecurity, psychometric statisticians and piloted in the general public before being psychometrically evaluated in a larger sample. The FAREB‐Q is anticipated to help elucidate the mechanisms linking food availability, food (in)security, disordered eating behaviors, and eating pathology.
Fungi stabilize multi‐kingdom community in a high elevation timberline ecosystem
Authors: Yang Teng , Tedersoo Leho , Liu Xu , Gao Gui‐Feng , Dong Ke , Adams Jonathan M. , Chu Haiyan
Published: August 2022

Microbes dominate terrestrial ecosystems via their great species diversity and vital ecosystem functions, such as biogeochemical cycling and mycorrhizal symbiosis. Fungi and other organisms form diverse association networks. However, the roles of species belonging to different kingdoms in multi‐kingdom community networks have remained largely elusive. In light of the integrative microbiome initiative, we inferred multiple‐kingdom biotic associations from high elevation timberline soils using the SPIEC‐EASI method. Biotic interactions among plants, nematodes, fungi, bacteria, and archaea were surveyed at the community and network levels. Compared to single‐kingdom networks, multi‐kingdom networks and their associations increased the within‐kingdom and cross‐kingdom edge numbers by 1012 and 10,772, respectively, as well as mean connectivity and negative edge proportion by 15.2 and 0.8%, respectively. Fungal involvement increased network stability (i.e., resistance to node loss) and connectivity, but reduced modularity, when compared with those in the single‐kingdom networks of plants, nematodes, bacteria, and archaea. In the entire multi‐kingdom network, fungal nodes were characterized by significantly higher degree and betweenness than bacteria. Fungi more often played the role of connector, linking different modules. Consistently, structural equation modeling and multiple regression on matrices corroborated the “bridge” role of fungi at the community level, linking plants and other soil biota. Overall, our findings suggest that fungi can stabilize the self‐organization process of multi‐kingdom networks. The findings facilitate the initiation and carrying out of multi‐kingdom community studies in natural ecosystems to reveal the complex above‐ and belowground linkages.
The positive role of parental attachment and communication in Chinese adolescents' health behavior and mental health during COVID‐19
Authors: Yang Beiming , Chen Bin‐Bin , Qu Yang , Zhu Yuanfei
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Given that coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has largely influenced adolescents' physical and mental health around the globe, it is important to identify protective factors that may promote adolescents' positive adjustment during the pandemic. This study aimed to examine the role of parental attachment and COVID‐19 communication in adolescents' health behavior and mental health during COVID‐19.

Methods

A total of 442 Chinese parent−adolescent dyads (mean age of adolescents = 13.35 years; 50% girls) completed two‐wave longitudinal surveys over the span of 2 months during the pandemic (Wave 1: July 2020; Wave 2: September 2020). At each wave, adolescents reported on their COVID‐19‐related health behavior, general health behavior, depressive symptoms, and anxiety symptoms. At Wave 1, parent−adolescent attachment security and COVID‐19 communication were also assessed.

Results

Adolescents' attachment security to parents was associated with their increased COVID‐19‐related and general health behavior as well as decreased depression and anxiety over 2 months during COVID‐19. Moreover, more frequent parent−adolescent COVID‐19 communication was associated with adolescents' increased COVID‐19‐related and general health behavior over time. Notably, attachment security's and COVID‐19 communication's associations with health behavior largely remained the same after taking into account both factors simultaneously. In addition, results from exploratory analyses suggest that more frequent COVID‐19 communication mediates the link between attachment security and increased health behavior.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the importance of promoting attachment security and COVID‐19 communication between parents and adolescents during the pandemic, which may play a positive role in adolescents' health behavior and mental health.
Did earnings mobility change after minimum wage introduction? Evidence from parametric and semi‐nonparametric methods in Germany
Authors: Naguib Costanza
Published: August 2022

We analyze the evolution of earnings mobility in Germany between 2011 and 2018. We use transition matrices and parametric and semi‐nonparametric copula models to assess the impact of the introduction of the national minimum wage on January 1, 2015, on individual positional persistence in the wage distribution. We find a drop in mobility at the bottom of the distribution. This is confirmed both by the parametric and the semi‐nonparametric methods used. Prediction accuracy of the semi‐nonparametric model is higher than that of the fully parametric model.
Spectral tuning of bioluminescence and visual sensitivity in males of Brazilian firefly species inhabiting dim light environments (Coleoptera: Elateroidea: Lampyridae)
Authors: Lall Abner B. , Viviani Vadim R. , Ventura Dora Fix
Published: August 2022

Bioluminescence in fireflies is essential for sexual communication, and each species has evolved a specific bioluminescence emission capable of being detected by its visual system. This spectral “tuning” between visual sensitivity and bioluminescent emission has been established in 14 species of North American fireflies inhabiting diverse photoecological niches. Here we extend that research to three Brazilian species. Macrolampis omissa inhabits the Cerrado (savannas), while Photinus sp1 and Pyrogaster moestus are often sympatric species inhabiting borders of mesophyll rain forests and secondary growth. P. moestus particularly favors humid areas of the forest. M. omissa and Photinus sp1 are twilight‐active fireflies emitting yellow bioluminescence. P. moestus is a “twi‐night” species emitting green bioluminescence. It initiates flashing at the end of twilight and continues activity into the night. The visual spectral sensitivity of dark‐adapted compound eyes in these three species is similar, showing a maximum in the yellow‐green wavelengths and a secondary peak in the near‐UV, suggesting the presence of two receptors. The bioluminescence emission spectrum in each species is tuned to its yellow‐green visual sensitivity peak. Green chromatic adaptation experiments on Photinus sp1 and P. moestus suggest the presence of a blue receptor. The presence of near‐UV, blue, and long‐wavelength receptors in the compound eyes would enable a trichromatic color vision in Brazilian firefly species active in dim illumination.
Rinikerfeld Palaeolake (Northern Switzerland) – a sedimentary archive of landscape and climate change during the penultimate glacial cycle
Authors: Gegg Lukas , Anselmetti Flavio S. , Deplazes Gaudenz , Knipping Maria , Madritsch Herfried , Mueller Daniela , Preusser Frank , Vogel Hendrik , Buechi Marius W.
Published: August 2022

While timing and ice extent of the last glacial maximum are generally well known, the courses of earlier glaciations have remained poorly constrained, with one of the main reasons being the scarcity of sedimentary archives. This study introduces a new palaeolake record from a Mid‐Pleistocene glaciofluvial channel system in the Lower Aare Valley (Northern Switzerland). The record of Rinikerfeld comprises a >40 m long succession of Quaternary deposits that are targeted by multi‐method sedimentological analysis. Sedimentary facies together with geochemical and geotechnical parameters, pollen content, as well as luminescence ages allow the reconstruction of the establishment, evolution and infilling of the early Marine Isotope Stage 6‐aged Rinikerfeld Palaeolake. A drastic change in lake sediment composition and structure indicates cessation of the initial glacially derived input, which is explained by landscape modification and drainage rerouting during the Penultimate (Beringen) Glaciation. Geochemical and palynological data further reveal cold, initially periglacial but slightly ameliorating, climate conditions, while the lake was progressively filled up by local runoff, before being buried by periglacial colluvial diamicts, and potentially overridden by ice. It is therefore concluded that the onset of the Beringen Glaciation was an environmentally as well as geomorphically dynamic time period in the Northern Alpine Foreland.
Controllable protein network based on DNA‐origami and biomedical applications
Authors: Wang Xinwei , Zhao Xiao
Published: August 2022

As an important part of driving natural life systems, the function of protein networks is accurately controlled through many parameters, like distance, quantity, position, and orientation. Nevertheless, it would be very hard to control the physical arrangement of the multiple proteins to generate cellular signaling events or complex enzymatic cascades, for instance small molecule organic synthesis DNA nanotechnology provides matching nanoscale dimensions, the special programmability of DNA, and the capability and compatibility of many proteins and nucleic acids. DNA origami has precise addressing capabilities at the nanoscale, which ensures the accurate assembly of the protein networks. These characteristics indicate that the DNA origami is a highly addressable programmable nanomaterial, which can be applied for building artificial protein networks. Up to now, researchers have achieved significant progress in the establishment and application of the DNA origami‐protein networks. In the current review, we introduce the superiorities of DNA origami‐protein networks in detail, concluded their construction strategies, and their recent progression and applications in biomedicine and biophysics. In the end, we look into the future prospects of DNA origami‐protein networks. Finally, we looked forward to the future perspective of DNA origami‐protein networks.
Distinguishing functional from structural roles of conserved pore residues during formate translocation by the FocA anion channel
Authors: Kammel Michelle , Sawers R. Gary
Published: August 2022

The formate‐specific anion channel FocA of Escherichia coli belongs to the superfamily of homopentameric formate‐nitrite transporters (FNT). Minimally nine amino acid residues are conserved in the formate translocation pore of each protomer of the pentamer, including a histidine (H209) and a threonine (T91), both of which are crucial for bidirectional formate translocation through the pore. Information regarding in vivo functional or structural roles for the other seven conserved residues is limited, or nonexistent. Here, we conducted an amino acid‐exchange analysis of these seven conserved residues. Using an established formate‐responsive lacZ‐based assay to monitor changes in intracellular formate levels and anaerobic growth rate due to the inhibitory formate analog hypophosphite, we identified five of the seven residues analyzed to be important for the structural integrity of the pentamer, in particular, two highly conserved asparagine residues, N213 and N262. The remaining two conserved residues, K156 and N172, were essential for formate/hypophosphite translocation. K156 is located on the periplasmic fringe of the pore and aids the attraction of formate to the channel. Here, we show that this residue is also important for formate efflux from the cytoplasm to the periplasm, suggesting a role in formate release from the pore. N172 could be replaced by alanine with retention of low‐level bidirectional anion translocation function; however, exchange for threonine abolished anion translocation. N172 is, therefore, crucial for bidirectional formate translocation, possibly through its interaction with the conserved pore residue, T91.
Biofloc as a Food Source for Banana Shrimp Fenneropenaeus merguiensis Postlarvae
Authors: Khanjani Mohammad Hossein , Sharifinia Moslem
Published: August 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of different levels of wet biofloc on water quality and feeding, growth performance, survival, and body composition of banana shrimp Fenneropenaeus merguiensis. The experiment consisted of the control group (feeding 100% commercial feed and 50% water exchange per day without biofloc) and four treatments in which portions of the commercial feed were replaced by wet biofloc (T2: 25%, T3: 50%, T4: 75%, and T5: 100%) with limited water exchange. Postlarvae of banana shrimp (mean ± SD weight of 4.5 ± 0.68 mg, density of 5 postlarvae/L) were experimentally held in fiberglass tanks with 170 L of seawater with salinity of 28‰ for 30 d. An acceptable range of total ammonium nitrogen and nitrite nitrogen was maintained in rearing tanks with wet biofloc throughout the experiment despite minimal water exchanges, but total ammonium nitrogen and nitrite nitrogen were significantly higher in the control group. Postlarvae fed with 25% wet biofloc had significantly higher total biomass (222.36 g) and survival (76.27%) compared with the other treatments. A comparison of banana shrimp fed with 25% or 50% wet biofloc and those fed with 100% commercial feed did not show a significant difference in body composition. The highest levels of body ash (12.7% of dry weight) were obtained in banana shrimp fed with 100% wet biofloc. In general, it was found that up to 50% of commercial feed can be replaced with wet biofloc (developed under the conditions of this study) without compromising growth performance, survival, and carcass quality of banana shrimp postlarvae.
Prevention of unplanned endotracheal extubation in intensive care unit: An overview of systematic reviews
Authors: Wu Jinhua , Liu Zhili , Shen Danqiao , Luo Zebing , Xiao Zewei , Liu Yeling , Huang Haixing
Published: August 2022

Aims

This study was performed to identify and summarize systematic reviews focusing on the prevention of unplanned endotracheal extubation in the intensive care unit.

Design

Overview of systematic reviews.

Methods

This overview was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Overviews of Systematic Reviews, including the harms checklist. A literature search of PubMed, the Cochrane Library, CINAH, Embase, Web of Science, SINOMED and PROSPERO was performed from January 1, 2005–June 1, 2021. A systematic review focusing on unplanned extubation was included, resulting in an evidence summary.

Results

Thirteen systematic reviews were included. A summary of evidence on unplanned endotracheal extubation was developed, and the main contents were risk factors, preventive measures and prognosis. The most important nursing measures were restraint, fixation of the tracheal tube, continuous quality improvement, psychological care and use of a root cause analysis for the occurrence of unplanned endotracheal extubation.

Conclusions

This overview re‐evaluated risk factors and preventive measures for unplanned endotracheal extubation in the intensive care unit, resulting in a summary of evidence for preventing unplanned endotracheal extubation and providing direction for future research.

Trial registration details

The study was registered on the PROSPERO website.
Synthesis, photophysical properties and DFT studies of pyrrolo[1,2‐a]quinoxaline hosted novel hole transporting molecules for perovskite solar cell (PSC)
Authors: Sathe Pratima , Karpe Aniket , Patil Bhimrao , Chetti Prabhakar , Chaskar Atul
Published: August 2022

A set of three molecules DMePPQ, DMeTPQ and DMePyPQ with donor‐ π bridge‐acceptor (D‐π‐A) arrangement have been synthesised using Buchwald–Hartwig coupling amination reaction. The absorption and fluorescence spectra of the compounds were recorded in dichloromethane solvent. All compounds absorption spectra indicate intramolecular charge transfer in the 375–450 nm region. The emission of these compounds is in the range of 450 to 550 nm on excitation with their respective absorption maxima. Electrochemical and thermal property studies are reported for the synthesised compounds. Photovoltaic performance of peroskite solar cell also reported for the molecule DMePyPQ. The experimental photophysical properties are supported with DFT studies.
Crowd‐sourced reporting of birds nesting on power lines in Iran
Authors: Kolnegari Mahmood , Hazrati Mandana , Tehrani Vahid Khodaei , Dwyer James F.
Published: August 2022

Birds frequently nest on overhead electrical infrastructure, which can lead to electrocutions, equipment damage, fires, and power outages when birds or nests contact energized equipment. Consequently, it is important that electric utilities have data‐driven plans for addressing avian nesting on power structures. Iran's Birds and Power Lines Committee (IBPLC) establishes guidelines for how electric utilities in Iran address avian interactions with electrical infrastructure. To support the IBPLC, we gathered information on avian nesting on power lines in Iran by searching posts from 4 crowd‐sourced groups: Bargh News, the Iranian linemen group on Instagram, and the Power Distribution Lines Experts and Linemen of Iran groups on Telegram. Contributions (e.g., postings) for each of these groups was limited to electric utility personnel in Iran. We reviewed photos and contacted members in the groups to identify nesting species and voltages of the electrical infrastructure supporting nests. We found 976 nests reported by 89 linemen from January 2019 through December 2020. Most (88%) were found during routine operations and maintenance, but some (12%) were found during power outage investigations. Most (77%) were on distribution pylons, with the rest (23%) on transmission towers. Of the nests found, 203 (21%) were species protected under Iranian law due to small and declining populations. The information we gathered was used by IBPLC to revise electric utility guidelines and ban the destruction of occupied nests (containing eggs or young) on power structures, except in cases where nests create an immediate safety hazard to nesting birds, electric utility linemen, or the public.
The Benefit of Accelerometers Based on Cold Atom Interferometry for Future Satellite Gravity Missions
Authors: Knabe Annike , Schilling Manuel , Wu Hu , HosseiniArani Alireza , Müller Jürgen , Beaufils Quentin , Santos Franck Pereira dos
Published: August 2022

Satellite gravity missions, like GRACE and GRACE Follow-On, successfully map the Earth’s gravity field and its change over time. With the addition of the laser ranging interferometer (LRI) to GRACE-FO, a significant improvement over GRACE for inter-satellite ranging was achieved. One of the limiting factors is the accelerometer for measuring the non-gravitational forces acting on the satellite. The classical electrostatic accelerometers are affected by a drift at low frequencies. This drawback can be counterbalanced by adding an accelerometer based on cold atom interferometry (CAI) due to its high long-term stability. The CAI concept has already been successfully demonstrated in ground experiments and is expected to show an even higher sensitivity in space.

In order to investigate the potential of the CAI concept for future satellite gravity missions, a closed-loop simulation is performed in the context of GRACE-FO like missions. The sensitivity of the CAI accelerometer is estimated based on state-of-the-art ground sensors and predictions for space applications. The sensor performance is tested for different scenarios and the benefits to the gravity field solutions are quantitatively evaluated. It is shown that a classical accelerometer aided by CAI technology improves the results of the gravity field recovery especially in reducing the striping effects. The non-gravitational accelerations are modelled using a detailed surface model of a GRACE-like satellite body. This is required for a realistic determination of the variations of the non-gravitational accelerations during one interferometer cycle. It is demonstrated that the estimated error due to this variation is significant. We consider different orbit altitudes and also analyze the effect of drag compensation.
A new resonance-based design approach to reduce motor torque requirements in automated machinery
Authors: Luzi Luca , Carloni Amedeo , Monari Eugenio , Berselli Giovanni , Vertechy Rocco
Published: August 2022

In the last decades, compliant mechanisms have been widely studied but their application has not been widespread due to their susceptibility to fatigue and the lack of systematic design methodologies. In this paper, the authors propose a new approach to be used in the automated machinery mechanism design (the mechanisms are usually subjected to predominant inertial loads) that exploits the capability of the compliant joints to store and release elastic energy in order to reduce the motor torque requirements. Thanks to the carbon-fiber reinforced 3D printing technologies, the compliant joint stiffness can be properly designed to obtain, for the considered mechanism, a resonant condition during its nominal functioning. Moreover, topology optimization can be successfully employed to reduce the mechanism component inertia (keeping the same overall mechanism stiffness) and thus, further diminish the torque requirements. In order to assess the quality of the proposed approach, a pusher mechanism used in a real automated machine has been considered. A prototype has been manufactured to evaluate the effect of the compliant joint introduction and the topology optimization on the motor torque reduction. To validate the results, an experimental campaign has been conducted. Comparison between the standard design approach and the new one emphasizes the superior contribution of compliant joint introduction on the motor torque reduction: a 97% and 96% reduction on the RMS and peak motor torque, respectively, is achieved resorting to the new design approach. Although a high repeatability is achieved, a slight deviation of the trajectory with respect to the ideal one is however registered.
Impact of the COVID‐19 Pandemic on Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Application and Outcomes: Analysis in the “Lazio Network” Database
Authors: Grieco Michele , Galiffa Giampaolo , Marcellinaro Rosa , Santoro Emanuele , Persiani Roberto , Mancini Stefano , Di Paola Massimiliano , Santoro Roberto , Stipa Francesco , Crucitti Antonio , Carlini Massimo ,   the “Lazio Network” study group, Spoletini Domenico , Russo Giulia , Menditto Rosa , Palla Filippo , Giorgetti Gian Marco , Pernazza Graziano , Marino Paola , De Luca Laura , Mancini Raffaello , Pende Vito , Lirici Marco , Falbo Francesco , D'Ugo Domenico , Sollazzi Liliana , Mele Maria Cristina , Lorenzon Laura , Gasbarrini Antonio , Pezzuto Roberto , Rinninella Emanuele , Cintoni Marco , Adducci Enrica , Belardi Augusto , Bonasera Elena , Cappelloni Daniela , Angeloni Riccardo , Minieri Luciana , Sagnotta Andrea , Folliero Gloria , Solinas Luigi , Arturi Alessandro , Ferraris Corrado , Capuano Giorgio , Romeo Gherardo , Amodio Pietro Maria , Carnevale Sara , Sansonetti Andrea , Tierno Simone Maria , Mazzari Andrea , Diamanti Paolo , Muccichini Lucilla , Menghetti Damiano
Published: August 2022

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate how the COVID‐19 pandemic influenced ERAS program application in colorectal surgery across hospitals in the Lazio region (central district in Italy) participating in the “Lazio Network” project.

Methods

A multi‐institutional database was constructed. All patients included in this study underwent elective colorectal surgery for both malignant and benign disease between January 2019 and December 2020. Emergency procedures were excluded. The population was divided into 2 groups: a pre‐COVID‐19 group (PG) of patients operated on between February and December 2019 and a COVID‐19 group (CG) of patients operated on between February and December 2020, during the first 2 waves of the pandemic in Italy.

Results

The groups included 622 patients in the PG and 615 in the CG treated in 8 hospitals of the network. The mean number of items applied was higher in the PG (65.6% vs. 56.6%, p < 0.001) in terms of preoperative items (64.2% vs. 50.7%, p < 0.001), intraoperative items (65.0% vs. 53.3%, p < 0.001), and postoperative items (68.8% vs. 63.2%, p < 0.001). Postoperative recovery was faster in the PG, with a shorter time to first flatus, first stool, autonomous mobilization and discharge (6.82 days vs. 7.43 days, p = 0.021). Postoperative complications, mortality and reoperations were similar among the groups.

Conclusions

The COVID‐19 pandemic had a negative impact on the application of ERAS in the centers of the “Lazio Network” study group, with a reduction in adherence to the ERAS protocol in terms of preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative items. In addition, in the CG, the patients had worse postoperative outcomes with respect to recovery and discharge.
PD-1, PD-L1 and cAMP immunohistochemical expressions are associated with worse oncological outcome in patients with bladder cancer
Authors: Russo Giorgio Ivan , Musso Nicolò , Lo Giudice Arturo , Asmundo Maria Giovanna , Di Mauro Marina , Bonacci Paolo G. , Massimino Mariacristina , Bivona Dalida , Stefani Stefania , Pricoco Elisabetta , Ferro Matteo , Camarda Massimo , Cimino Sebastiano , Morgia Giuseppe , Caltabiano Rosario , Broggi Giuseppe
Published: August 2022

Purpose

In this study, we aimed to identify prognostic factors of cancer mortality in patients who received radical cystectomy and to identify genomic alterations in a sub-cohort of patients with locally advanced (pT3-4) and/or positive lymph nodes bladder cancer (BC).

Methods

We collected 101 BC samples from 2010 to 2018 who previously received radical cystectomy. Immunohistochemical slides were evaluated for PPAR, cAMP, IMP3, Ki67, CDK4, POU5F1, Cyclin E and MDM2, p65, CD3, CD4, CD8, CD20, CD68, CD163, FOXP3, PD-1 and PD-L1 expression. We calculated a prognostic score (PS) based on the positivity to PD-1, PD-L1 and of cAMP (final score ranging from 0 to 3). DNA of each sample have been used for sequencing by NGS in a sub-cohort of 6 patients with locally advanced (pT3-4) and/or positive lymph nodes BC.

Results

PD-1 + (HR [hazard ratio] 2.59; p = 0.04), PD-L1+ (HR = 6.46; p < 0.01) and cAMP+ (HR 3.04; p = 0.02) were independent predictors of cancer-specific mortality (CSM). Increase of PS (score = 0 as reference) was associated with CSM, 0.81 (p = 0.80), 4.72 (p = 0.01) and 10.51 (p < 0.0) for PS 1, 2 and 3, respectively. ERBB2 was the gene most frequently mutated.

Conclusion

BC exhibited heterogenous protein expression and variable genomic features. Identification of expression of PD-1, PD-L1 and cAMP could help in predicting oncological outcomes.
Robust automated prediction of the revised Vienna Classification in colonoscopy using deep learning: development and initial external validation
Authors: Yamada Masayoshi , Shino Ryosaku , Kondo Hiroko , Yamada Shigemi , Takamaru Hiroyuki , Sakamoto Taku , Bhandari Pradeep , Imaoka Hitoshi , Kuchiba Aya , Shibata Taro , Saito Yutaka , Hamamoto Ryuji
Published: August 2022

Background

Improved optical diagnostic technology is needed that can be used by also outside expert centers. Hence, we developed an artificial intelligence (AI) system that automatically and robustly predicts the pathological diagnosis based on the revised Vienna Classification using standard colonoscopy images.

Methods

We prepared deep learning algorithms and colonoscopy images containing pathologically proven lesions (56,872 images, 6775 lesions). Four classifications were adopted: revised Vienna Classification category 1, 3, and 4/5 and normal images. The best algorithm—ResNet152—in the independent internal validation (14,048 images, 1718 lesions) was used for external validation (255 images, 128 lesions) based on neoplastic and non-neoplastic classification. Diagnostic performance of endoscopists was compared using a computer-assisted interpreting test.

Results

In the internal validation, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and accuracy for adenoma (category 3) of 84.6% (95% CI 83.5–85.6%), 99.7% (99.5–99.8%), 90.8% (89.9–91.7%), 89.2% (88.5–99.0%), and 89.8% (89.3–90.4%), respectively. In the external validation, ResNet152’s sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and accuracy for neoplastic lesions were 88.3% (82.6–94.1%), 90.3% (83.0–97.7%), 94.6% (90.5–98.8%), 80.0% (70.6–89.4%), and 89.0% (84.5–93.6%), respectively. This diagnostic performance was superior to that of expert endoscopists. Area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve was 0.903 (0.860–0.946).

Conclusions

The developed AI system can help non-expert endoscopists make differential diagnoses of colorectal neoplasia on par with expert endoscopists during colonoscopy.

(229/250 words).
Krankenhausalarm- und -einsatzplanung in Baden-Württemberg. Eine länderspezifische Umfrage an 214 Kliniken
Authors: Pfenninger Ernst G. , Villhauer Sabine , Königsdorfer Manuel
Published: August 2022

Hintergrund

Öffentlich geförderte Akutkrankenhäuser wirken in Deutschland aufgrund gesetzlicher Vorgaben im Katastrophenschutz mit. Diese Mitwirkung umfasst insbesondere auch die Notwendigkeit, Alarm- und Einsatzpläne für interne und externe Gefahrenlagen aufzustellen und fortzuschreiben und sich auf Anforderung der Behörden an Übungen zu beteiligen. Literatur, ob und in welchem Umfang die Krankenhäuser diesen Verpflichtungen nachkommen, ist bisher jedoch nur sehr eingeschränkt verfügbar.

Fragestellung

In einem standardisierten Abfrageverfahren sollte der aktuelle Status der Alarm- und Einsatzplanung in baden-württembergischen Krankenhäusern evaluiert werden.

Material und Methoden

An 214 anhand einer Auflistung der Baden-Württembergischen Krankenhausgesellschaft e. V. (BWKG) identifizierten Kliniken in Baden-Württemberg wurde ein einheitlicher Fragebogen versendet, in dem bestimmte Merkmale des Alarm- und Einsatzplans, dessen Verfügbarkeit, die regelmäßige Beteiligung der Klinik an Katastrophenschutzübungen sowie Folgerungen daraus abgefragt wurden.

Ergebnisse

Von den 214 Kliniken in Baden-Württemberg gaben 135 (63 %) Rückmeldung anhand des Fragebogens. Die Alarm- und Einsatzpläne enthalten in 79,3 % sowohl externe (z. B. Massenanfall von Verletzten) als auch interne Gefahrenlagen (z. B. Brände, Ausfall technischer Anlagen). Im weit überwiegenden Anteil der Fälle (94 %) gaben die Kliniken an, den Notfallplan regelmäßig zu aktualisieren, das Zeitintervall der Aktualisierung variiert jedoch stark. Drei Viertel der Krankenhäuser führen regelmäßig Teil- oder Vollübungen durch. Teilweise fanden die aus den Übungen gewonnenen Erkenntnisse Einzug in den Alarm- und Einsatzplan oder führten zur verbesserten Schulung von Mitarbeitenden.

Schlussfolgerung

Die Bereitschaft der Krankenhäuser, eine umfassende Notfallplanung aufzustellen und sich an entsprechenden Übungen zu beteiligen, hat in den vergangenen Jahren merklich zugenommen. Weiterhin besteht jedoch in manchen Kliniken ein Mangel bei der Aktualisierungsfrequenz der Alarm- und Einsatzpläne. Bei kleineren Kliniken bestehen zudem noch Defizite in Bezug auf vorbereitende Maßnahmen gegen interne Gefahrenlagen, die aus dem Ausfall technischer Anlagen resultieren. Vermehrt sollten regelmäßige Übungen durchgeführt werden, um die festgelegten Verfahren auf den Prüfstand zu stellen und die Beschäftigten mit den Abläufen routinemäßig vertraut zu machen.
Mobility of Be, Bi, F, Ga, Ge and W in Surface Water and the Water Quality Impact on Epilithic Diatoms Downstream of the Historical Yxsjöberg Mine Site, Sweden
Authors: Hällström Lina P. B.
Published: August 2022

There is a potential risk that the geochemical cycles of several critical metals will be affected when mining of these metals increases to meet the demand of green technology. The geochemistry of Be, Bi, Ga, Ge, and W, herewith called CM5, is lacking, yet is necessary to ensure responsible mine waste and water management. Beryllium, Bi, and W are all considered immobile, but in previous studies of skarn tailings in Yxsjöberg, Sweden, all three elements were mobilized. The tailings are enriched in CM5, together with pyrrhotite, calcite, and fluorite. The mobility and environmental impact of CM5 and F in surface waters downstream of the Yxsjöberg mine site, Sweden, were studied using monthly water samples from seven locations and analysis of diatoms at five of these locations. Bismuth, Ge, and W were present at low concentrations, transported in the particulate phase, and likely settled in the sediments hundreds of meters from the tailings. Beryllium and F were present at high concentrations and dominantly transported in the dissolved phase. At these pH conditions (5.6), Be should form insoluble hydroxides; however, elevated concentrations of dissolved Be were observed more than 5 km from the mine site. Diatoms downstream of the mine site were negatively affected by the mine drainage. The release of low quality neutral mine drainage will continue for hundreds of years if remediation actions are not undertaken since only a small portion of the tailings have weathered during 50–100 years of storage.
Evaluation of the good night out campaign: a sexual violence bystander training programme for nightlife workers in England
Authors: Quigg Zara , Ross-Houle Kim , Bigland Charlotte , Bates Rebecca
Published: August 2022

Aim

Sexual violence is global public health, human rights and gender equality issue. Sexual violence bystander programmes for nightlife workers are emerging across a few countries and further examination of such programmes is required. This exploratory study evaluates the potential effectiveness of the Good Night Out Campaign, a sexual violence bystander programme for nightlife workers.

Subject and methods

Two hundred and seven trainees attending the 1.5 hour training programme across two cities in England were recruited opportunistically, immediately prior to training delivery. Sexual violence myth acceptance and readiness and confidence to intervene in sexual violence were measured at baseline and post-intervention. Analyses used paired-sample tests to examine differences in the three measurements pre to post-training and effect sizes were quantified using Cohen’s d.

Results

Compared to pre-training, post-training participants were significantly (p < 0.001) less likely to agree with sexual violence myths, and more likely to be confident and ready to intervene in sexual violence or incidents of vulnerability. Effect sizes were small–medium.

Conclusions

The study adds to emergent evidence suggesting that sexual violence bystander programmes may be promising in decreasing sexual violence myths and barriers to bystander intervention, and increasing willingness to intervene amongst nightlife workers. Findings can support the emergence of sexual violence prevention activities implemented in nightlife spaces. Further programme implementation and evaluation using experimental designs is needed to explore outcomes in greater depth, considering the complexity of the nightlife environment.
CFD Simulation of Particle-Laden Flow in a 3D Differentially Heated Cavity Using Coarse Large Eddy Simulation
Authors: Sayed M. A. , Dehbi A. , Hadžiabić M. , Ničeno B. , Mikityuk K.
Published: August 2022

Particulate flow in closed space is involved in many engineering applications. In this paper, the prediction of particle removal is investigated in a thermally driven 3D cavity at turbulent Rayleigh number Ra = 109 using Coarse Large Eddy Simulation (CLES). The depletion dynamics of SiO2 aerosol with aerodynamic diameters between 1.4 and 14 µm is reported in an Euler/Lagrange framework. The main focus of this work is therefore to assess the effect of the subgrid-scale motions on the prediction of the particulate flow in a buoyancy driven 3D cavity flow when the mesh resolution is coarse and below optimal LES standards. The research is motivated by the feasibility of modeling more complex particulate flows with reduced CPU cost.

The cubical cavity of 0.7 m side-length is set to have a temperature difference of 39 K between the two facing cold and hot vertical walls. As a first step, the carrier fluid flow was validated by comparing the first and second-moment statistics against both previous well-resolved LES and experimental databases [Kalilainen (J. Aero Sci. 100:73–87, 2016); Dehbi (J. Aero. Sci. 103:67–82, 2017)]. First moment Eulerian statistics show a very good match with the reference data both qualitatively and quantitatively, whereas higher moments show underprediction due to the lesser spatial resolution. In a second step, six particle swarms spanning a wide range of particle Stokes numbers were computed to predict particle depletion. In particular, predictions of 1.4 and 3.5 µm particles were compared to LES and available experimental data. Particles of low inertia i.e. dp < 3.5 µm are more affected by the SGS effects, while bigger ones i.e. dp = 3.5–14 µm exhibit much less grid-dependency. Lagrangian statistics reported in both qualitative and quantitative fashions show globally a very good agreement with reference LES and experimental databases at a fraction of the CPU power needed for optimal LES.
Anonymous Online Survey on Disordered Eating, Drive for Muscularity, Sexual Orientation, and Satisfaction with Life in Young Swedish Males
Authors: Ghaderi Ata , Bulik Cynthia , Myrälf Mattias , Welch Elisabeth
Published: August 2022

Psychiatric conditions in general, including eating disorders, are stigmatizing conditions. The stigma of eating disorders is even more pronounced among males. We conducted an anonymous, online survey to explore the feasibility of recruiting participants for collecting sensitive information, and the relation among eating disorders, drive for muscularity, satisfaction with life, and sexual preference in males (N = 824) aged 15–30 years in Sweden. Internet survey method was a feasible way of recruiting males and obtaining sensitive information. Drive for muscularity was positively related to eating psychopathology. Interestingly, only the attitudinal aspect of the drive for muscularity was negatively related to satisfaction with life, whereas the behavioral component of the drive for muscularity was unrelated to quality of life. Drive for muscularity and disordered eating were not significantly different across participants with various sexual orientations. Our findings corroborate and extend previous research by using an anonymous Internet-based survey that may be less contaminated by social desirability or reporting bias due to the sensitivity of some of the questions.
Physiochemical responses of Ailanthus altissima under the challenge of Verticillium dahliae: elucidating the decline of one of the world’s worst invasive alien plant species
Authors: Pisuttu Claudia , Lo Piccolo Ermes , Paoli Luca , Cotrozzi Lorenzo , Nali Cristina , Pellegrini Elisa , Lorenzini Giacomo
Published: August 2022

Natural infections ofVerticilliumspp. (Fungi, Ascomycota) onAilanthus altissimahave suggested to consider the biological control as a promising strategy to counteract this invasive plant, which is otherwise difficult to control by traditional mechanical and chemical treatments. Verticillium wilt is able to lead plants to death, throughout a pathogenic mechanism including vessel occlusions and production of degrading enzymes and phytotoxins. In this study, a 10 weeks open air pot experiment was set to investigate the ecophysiological and biochemical responses ofAilanthustrees artificially inoculated in the trunk with theV. dahliaestrain VdGL16, previously isolated in Central Italy from the same host. Inoculated plants showed visible injuries starting from 2 weeks post inoculation (wpi), that progressively developed until a final severe defoliation. The fungal infection rapidly compromised the plant water status, and photosynthesis was impaired due to both stomatal and mesophyll limitations from 4 wpi, with subsequent detrimental effects also on PSII activity. Moreover, the disease altered the translocations of nutrients, as confirmed by cation and carbohydrate contents, probably due to a consumption of simple sugars and starch reserves without replacement of new photosynthesized. An accumulation of osmolytes (abscisic acid and proline) and phenylalanine (a precursor of phenylpropanoids) was also reported at 8 wpi, this being a response mechanism that needs to be further elucidated. However, the activation delay of such defence strategy inevitably did not avoid the premature defoliation of plants and the decline of physiochemical parameters, confirming the key role ofVerticilliuminAilanthusdecay.