bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scalable Spray Drying Production of Amorphous V2O5–EGO 2D Heterostructured Xerogels for High‐Rate and High‐Capacity Aqueous Zinc Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Yubai , Qin Jiadong , Batmunkh Munkhbayar , Li Wei , Fu Huaiqin , Wang Liang , Al‐Mamun Mohammad , Qi Dongchen , Liu Porun , Zhang Shanqing , Zhong Yu Lin
Published: January 2022

Rechargeable aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs) are promising in stationary grid energy storage due to their advantages in safety and cost‐effectiveness, and the search for competent cathode materials is one core task in the development of ZIBs. Herein, the authors design a 2D heterostructure combining amorphous vanadium pentoxide and electrochemically produced graphene oxide (EGO) using a fast and scalable spray drying technique. The unique 2D heterostructured xerogel is achieved by controlling the concentration of EGO in the precursor solution. Driven by the improved electrochemical kinetics, the resultant xerogel can deliver an excellent rate capability (334 mAh g−1 at 5 A g−1) as well as a high specific capacity (462 mAh g−1 at 0.2 A g−1) as the cathode material in ZIB. It is also shown that the coin cell constructed based on spray‐dried xerogel can output steady, high energy densities over a broad power density window. This work provides a scalable and cost‐effective approach for making high performance electrode materials from cheap sources through existing industrialized materials processing.
Batteries to Keep Solar‐Driven Water Splitting Running at Night: Performance of a Directly Coupled System
Authors: Kin Li-Chung , Astakhov Oleksandr , Lee Minoh , Haas Stefan , Ding Kaining , Merdzhanova Tsvetelina , Rau Uwe
Published: January 2022

Direct solar‐powered hydrogen generation (so‐called “green” hydrogen) is promising as a renewable fuel that can be generated anywhere there is sunshine and water. Many attempts are made to integrate a water electrolyzer (EC) and solar cell at different levels (a so‐called artificial leaf) to take advantage of the reduced losses from the lack of wiring and optionally increased portability afforded by an integrated unit. However, in many cases, EC catalysts degrade as electrodes depolarize when shut down at night. Much less attention is paid to the need for a minimum current across the EC under insufficient illumination to prevent excessive cyclic degradation. Directly coupling a battery to keep an artificial leaf running at night can address this need and, in theory, also increase solar‐to‐hydrogen (STH) efficiency. A seven‐cell silicon heterojunction module, two bifunctional NiFeMo ECs in series, and a commercial Li‐ion NMC battery are selected to provide the same amount of solar output power despite different working voltages and tested in a series of simulated diurnal cycles. The increased average STH efficiency per cycle (11.4% vs. 10.5% without the battery) is analyzed and discussed with implications for future artificial leaf design and implementation.
Tailoring Anchoring Groups in Low‐Dimensional Organic Semiconductor‐Incorporated Perovskites
Authors: Liang Aihui , Ma Ke , Gao Yao , Dou Letian
Published: January 2022

Low‐dimensional, organic semiconductor‐incorporated perovskites (OSiPs) are hybrid structures with functional organic cations intercalated between inorganic octahedron frameworks. They exhibit increased structural and compositional tunability, fascinating electronic properties, and enhanced stability for a wide range of applications. Currently, the interactions between the conjugated organic building blocks and the metal halide inorganic building blocks have not been fully investigated. Herein, a series of bithiophene‐based conjugated ligands with formamidinium, imidazolium, and benzimidazolium terminal groups to examine the influence of different anchoring groups on the crystal structures, phase formation, and device performances are reported. It is shown that the terminal groups of the ligands have significant effect on the interactions between ligands and octahedra in perovskites, thus determine the formation of the crystal structures. Only the 3D perovskite solar cells passivated by the ligands with imidazolium and benzimidazolium terminal groups exhibit enhancement in power conversion efficiencies as well as reduced hysteresis. A new strategy is provided for designing novel OSiPs structures and functionalities via tailoring the anchoring group.
Dynamic splitting tensile behaviors of ceramic aggregate concrete: An experimental and mesoscopic study
Authors: Zhang Jinhua , Liu Xinguo , Ding Kai , Wu Zhangyu
Published: January 2022

This paper presents an experimental and numerical study on the dynamic splitting tensile properties of ceramic aggregate concrete (CAC) that is composed of ceramic aggregates and mortar matrix. The maximum ceramic aggregate diameter includes 0.3, 0.6, and 0.9 cm. A series of split‐tension tests of CAC specimens were conducted first. Parametric studies such as the effects of aggregate size and strain rate, on the splitting tensile behaviors of CAC were presented in terms of tensile strength, stress–strain curve, failure patterns, and so on. Subsequently, we developed a three‐dimensional two‐phase mesoscale model for CAC, where the random distribution and size characteristics of ceramic aggregates in concrete were fully considered. Employing the developed mesoscopic model, systematic mesoscopic simulations were performed to investigate the mesoscopic responses of CAC under dynamic split‐tension loadings. Results indicated that the mechanic properties and cracking behaviors of CAC are associated with many factors, such as aggregate diameter, aggregate distribution and strain rate. Besides, there was a good agreement between the tested and numerical results, demonstrating that the developed mesoscale model has a significant reliability and potential in simulating the mechanical properties of CAC.
Effects of dietary stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) on hormone stress and selected serum biochemical parameters of broilers subjected to chronic heat stress
Authors: Mirsaiidi Farahani Mehrad , Hosseinian Seyedeh Alemeh
Published: January 2022

Background

Heat stress is one of the most critical problems confronting the poultry industry. Stinging nettle (SN) is a medicinal plant with potent antioxidant properties.

Objective

The goal of this study was to evaluate the effects of dietary SN at two different levels (2 and 4%) on the serum levels of cortisol and some selected parameters of broilers exposed to chronic heat stress.

Methods

A total of 240 broiler chickens were randomly assigned to six dietary groups as follows: (1) control: fed the basal diet; (2) HS: heat‐stressed broiler fed the basal diet; (3) HS‐SN2: heat‐stressed broiler fed 2% dietary SN; (4) HS‐SN4: heat‐stressed broilers fed 4% SN; (5) SN2: no heat‐stressed broilers fed the basal diet supplemented with 2% SN; (6) SN4: no heat‐stressed broilers fed the basal diet supplemented with 4% SN. Diet supplementation with SN was performed from days 14 to 35 and chronic heat stress was induced from days 22 to 29. The serum parameters were evaluated on days 14, 21, 29 and 35.

Results

HS had higher serum levels of cortisol, total cholesterol (TC), aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase and creatine kinase (CK) compared to the other treatments. HS‐SN4 had significantly lower cortisol, TC, alanine aminotransferase and CK compared to HS and HS‐SN2.

Conclusions

The inclusion of 4% SN powder in the broilers’ diet alleviated the negative effects of heat stress by decreasing cortisol, TC and tissue damage indices. It seems that dietary SN could be used as a feed additive in the poultry diet for improving the health status and defence mechanisms of the birds under stressful conditions.
Enabling Systems Innovation in Climate Change Adaptation: Exploring the Role for MEL
Authors: Gregorowski Robbie , Bours Dennis
Published: January 2022

Traditional monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) approaches, methods, and tools no longer reflect the dynamic complexity of the severe (or “super-wicked”) problems that define the Anthropocene: climate change, environmental degradation, and global pandemics. In late 2019, the Adaptation Fund’s Technical Evaluation Reference Group (AF-TERG) commissioned a study to identify and assess innovative MEL approaches, methods, and technologies to better support and enable climate change adaptation (CCA) and to inform the Fund’s own approach to MEL. This chapter presents key findings from the study, with seven recommendations to support a systems innovation approach to CCA:

Promote and lead with a CCA systems innovation approach, engaging with key concepts of complex systems, super-wicked problems, the Anthropocene, and socioecological systems.

Engage better with participation, inclusivity, and voice in MEL.

Overcome risk aversion in CCA and CCA MEL through field testing new, innovative, and often more risky MEL approaches.

Demonstrate and promote using MEL to support and integrate adaptive management.

Work across socioecological systems and scales.

Advance MEL approaches to better support systematic evidence and learning for scaling and replicability.

Adapt or develop MEL approaches, methods, and tools tailored to CCA systems innovation.
Importance and Utilization of Theory-Based Evaluations in the Context of Sustainable Development and Social-Ecological Systems
Authors: Miyaguchi Takaaki
Published: January 2022

Numerous challenges confront the task of evaluating sustainable development—its complex nature, complementary evaluation criteria, and the difficulty of evaluation at the nexus of human and natural systems. Theory-based evaluation, drawn from critical realism, is well suited to this task. When constructing a program theory/theory of change for evaluating sustainable development, concepts of socioecological systems and coupled human and natural systems are useful. The chapter discusses four modes of inference and the application of different theory-based evaluation approaches. It introduces the CHANS (coupled human and natural systems) framework, a holistic, analytical framework that is useful in evaluating such complex, social-ecological systems and resonates with the challenging elements of sustainable development evaluation.
Artificial Neural Networks and Deep Learning for Genomic Prediction of Binary, Ordinal, and Mixed Outcomes
Authors: Montesinos López Osval Antonio , Montesinos López Abelardo , Crossa Jose
Published: January 2022

In this chapter, we provide the main elements for implementing deep neural networks in Keras for binary, categorical, and mixed outcomes under feedforward networks as well as the main practical issues involved in implementing deep learning models with binary response variables. The same practical issues are provided for implementing deep neural networks with categorical and count traits under a univariate framework. We follow with a detailed assessment of information for implementing multivariate deep learning models for continuous, binary, categorical, count, and mixed outcomes. In all the examples given, the data came from plant breeding experiments including genomic data. The training process for binary, ordinal, count, and multivariate outcomes is similar to fitting DNN models with univariate continuous outcomes, since once we have the data to be trained, we need to (a) define the DNN model in Keras, (b) configure and compile the model, (c) fit the model, and finally, (d) evaluate the prediction performance in the testing set. In the next section, we provide illustrative examples of training DNN for binary outcomes in Keras R (Chollet and Allaire, Deep learning with R. Manning Publications, Manning Early Access Program (MEA), 2017; Allaire and Chollet, Keras: R interface to Keras’, 2019).
Einleitung
Authors: Lünich Marco
Published: January 2022

Der Vorgang, bei dem digitale Daten im Zuge der Computerisierung entstehen, gespeichert und manuell oder automatisch ausgewertet werden, entzieht sich der unmittelbaren und vollständigen Beobachtbarkeit durch den Menschen. Es mag zwar in gewissem Grad ein Bewusstsein über vermeintliche Konsequenzen oder Resultate geben, wenn digitale Daten entstehen, gespeichert oder ausgewertet werden. Man kann jedoch nicht vollumfänglich und oft nur mit großer Mühe im Ansatz nachvollziehen, wie Mechanismen der mittlerweile weltumspannenden Datenentstehung und -verwertung ablaufen und permanent produzierte Ergebnisse zustande kommen.
Triality and the consistent reductions on AdS3 × S3
Authors: Eloy Camille , Larios Gabriel , Samtleben Henning
Published: January 2022

Abstract

We study compactifications on AdS3×S3 and deformations thereof. We exploit the triality symmetry of the underlying duality group SO(4,4) of three-dimensional supergravity in order to construct and relate new consistent truncations. For non-chiral D = 6, $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
6d = (1, 1) supergravity, we find two different consistent truncations to three-dimensional supergravity, retaining different subsets of Kaluza-Klein modes, thereby offering access to different subsectors of the full nonlinear dynamics. As an application, we construct a two-parameter family of AdS3 × M3 backgrounds on squashed spheres preserving U(1)2 isometries. For generic value of the parameters, these solutions break all supersymmetries, yet they remain perturbatively stable within a non-vanishing region in parameter space. They also contain a one-parameter family of $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= (0, 4) supersymmetric AdS3 × M3 backgrounds on squashed spheres with U(2) isometries. Using techniques from exceptional field theory, we determine the full Kaluza-Klein spectrum around these backgrounds.
Schädelbasismetastasen mit Hirnnervenaffektionen
Authors: Hoppe J. , Kalckreuth T. , Metelmann M. , Rumpf J. J. , Klagges S. , Dietzsch S. , Scherlach C. , Kuhnt T. , Kortmann R. D. , Seidel C.
Published: January 2022

Hintergrund und Ziele

Schädelbasismetastasen sind eine seltene Manifestation onkologischer Erkrankungen. Wenn Hirnnerven beteiligt sind, können schon kleine Läsionen erhebliche funktionelle Beeinträchtigungen hervorrufen. Spezifische klinische Charakteristika wie neurologische Symptome, assoziierte Primärtumoren, Prognose und optimale Therapie der Erkrankung sind schlecht definiert und sollen in dieser Arbeit systematisch dargestellt werden.

Methoden

Mit einem monozentrischen retrospektiven Ansatz wurden Schädelbasismetastasen bei Patienten, die im Zeitraum von 2006 bis 2018 behandelt wurden, detailliert hinsichtlich klinischer Charakteristika, der durchgeführten Therapie und des weiteren Erkrankungsverlaufs analysiert.

Ergebnisse

Insgesamt 45 Patienten mit Schädelbasismetastasen und Hirnnervenausfällen wurden erfasst. Die häufigsten Primärtumoren waren Prostatakarzinom (27 %), Mammakarzinom (22 %) und multiples Myelom (16 %). Die am häufigsten betroffenen Hirnnerven waren Nervus trigeminus (42 %), Nervus oculomotorius (33 %) und Nervus facialis (27 %). 84 % aller Patienten wiesen außerhalb der Schädelbasis liegende weitere Knochenmetastasen auf. Eine durale Infiltration oder eine Meningeosis neoplastica lagen bei je 13 % der Patienten vor. Nach Bestrahlung waren 61 % der Patienten hinsichtlich der auf die Schädelbasismetastase zurückzuführenden Symptome klinisch stabil, bei 22 % hatten sich die Symptome gebessert. Das mediane Gesamtüberleben betrug 8 Monate (Spanne: 0,4–51 Monate). Bei Patienten, die mit einer dosiseskalierten Bestrahlung behandelt wurden, bestand eine längere Überlebenszeit (16,4 Monate vs. 4,7 Monate). Dieser Effekt persistierte auch in der multivariaten Analyse unter Berücksichtigung der Faktoren Karnofsky-Index, Metastasenanzahl, Primärtumor und Bestrahlungsdosis (HR 0,37, p = 0,02).

Diskussion

Schädelbasismetastasen mit Hirnnervenausfällen haben ein vielgestaltiges Bild und oft eine schlechte Prognose. Um potenziell eine Überlebenszeitverbesserung zu erreichen, sind präzise Diagnostik und Therapie Voraussetzung. Prospektive kontrollierte Untersuchungen sind notwendig.
On two mod p period maps: Ekedahl–Oort and fine Deligne–Lusztig stratifications
Authors: Andreatta Fabrizio
Published: January 2022

Consider a Shimura variety of Hodge type admitting a smooth integral model S at an odd prime $$p\ge 5$$

p
≥
5

. Consider its perfectoid cover $$S^{\text {ad}}(p^\infty )$$

S
ad

(

p
∞

)

and the Hodge–Tate period map introduced by Caraiani and Scholze. We compare the pull-back to $$S^{\text {ad}}(p^\infty )$$

S
ad

(

p
∞

)

of the Ekedahl–Oort stratification on the mod p special fiber of a toroidal compactification of S and the pull back to $$S^\text {ad}(p^\infty )$$

S
ad

(

p
∞

)

of the fine Deligne–Lusztig stratification on the mod p special fiber of the flag variety which is the target of the Hodge–Tate period map. An application to the non-emptiness of Ekedhal–Oort strata is provided.
A biomimetic enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (BELISA) for the analysis of gonadorelin by using molecularly imprinted polymer-coated microplates
Authors: Torrini Francesca , Caponi Laura , Bertolini Andrea , Palladino Pasquale , Cipolli Francesca , Saba Alessandro , Paolicchi Aldo , Scarano Simona , Minunni Maria
Published: January 2022

An original biomimetic enzyme-linked immunoassay (BELISA) to target the small peptide hormone gonadorelin is presented. This peptide has been recently listed among the substances banned in sports by the World Antidoping Agency (WADA) since its misuse by male athletes triggers testosterone increase. Hence, in response to this emerging issue in anti-doping controls, we proposed BELISA which involves the growth of a polynorepinephrine (PNE)–based molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) directly on microwells. PNE, a polydopamine (PDA) analog, has recently displayed impressive performances when it was exploited for MIP preparation, giving even better results than PDA. Gonadorelin quantification was accomplished via a colorimetric indirect competitive bioassay involving the competition between biotinylated gonadorelin linked to the signal reporter and the unlabeled analyte. These compete for the same MIP binding sites resulting in an inverse correlation between gonadorelin concentration and the output color signal (λ = 450 nm). A detection limit of 277 pmol L−1 was achieved with very good reproducibility in standard solutions (avCV% = 4.07%) and in urine samples (avCV% = 5.24%). The selectivity of the assay resulted adequate for biological specimens and non-specific control peptides. In addition, the analytical figures of merit were successfully validated by mass spectrometry, the reference anti-doping benchtop platform for the analyte. BELISA was aimed to open real perspectives for PNE-based MIPs as alternatives to antibodies, especially when the target analyte is a poorly or non-immunogenic small molecule, such as gonadorelin.

Graphical abstract
Treatment with Soluble Activin Type IIB Receptor Ameliorates Ovariectomy-Induced Bone Loss and Fat Gain in Mice
Authors: Puolakkainen Tero , Rummukainen Petri , Pihala-Nieminen Vappu , Ritvos Olli , Savontaus Eriika , Kiviranta Riku
Published: January 2022

Introduction

In postmenopausal osteoporosis, hormonal changes lead to increased bone turnover and metabolic alterations including increased fat mass and insulin resistance. Activin type IIB receptors bind several growth factors of the TGF-β superfamily and have been demonstrated to increase muscle and bone mass. We hypothesized that ActRIIB-Fc treatment could improve bone and muscle mass, inhibit fat accumulation, and restore metabolic alterations in an ovariectomy (OVX) model of postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Materials and Methods

Female C57Bl/6 N mice were subjected to SHAM or OVX procedures and received intraperitoneal injections of either PBS or ActRIIB-Fc (5 mg/kg) once weekly for 7 weeks. Glucose and insulin tolerance tests (GTT and ITT, respectively) were performed at 7 and 8 weeks, respectively. Bone samples were analyzed with micro-computed tomography imaging, histomorphometry, and quantitative RT-PCR.

Results

Bone mass decreased in OVX PBS mice compared to the SHAM PBS group but ActRIIB-Fc was able to prevent these changes as shown by µCT and histological analyses. This was due to decreased osteoclast numbers and function demonstrated by histomorphometric and qRT-PCR analyses. OVX induced adipocyte hypertrophy that was rescued by ActRIIB-Fc, which also decreased systemic adipose tissue accumulation. OVX itself did not affect glucose levels in GTT but ActRIIB-Fc treatment resulted in impaired glucose clearance in both SHAM and OVX groups. OVX induced mild insulin resistance in ITT but ActRIIB-Fc treatment did not affect this.

Conclusion

Our results reinforce the potency of ActRIIB-Fc as a bone-enhancing agent but also bring new insight into the metabolic effects of ActRIIB-Fc in normal and OVX mice.
Drug utilisation in neonatal units in England and Wales: a national cohort study
Authors: Al-Turkait Asma , Szatkowski Lisa , Choonara Imti , Ojha Shalini
Published: January 2022

Purpose

To describe drug utilisation patterns in neonatal units.

Methods

Retrospective observational cohort study using data held in the National Neonatal Research Database (NNRD) for neonatal units in England and Wales including infants born at 23 to 44 weeks’ gestational age (GA) from 01 January 2010 to 31 December 2017.

Results

The cohort included 17,501 (3%) extremely preterm infants; 40,607 (7%) very preterm infants; 193,536 (31%) moderate-to-late preterm infants; and 371,606 (59%) term infants. The number of unique drugs received by an infant (median (IQR)) increased with decreasing GA: 17 (11–24) in extremely preterm, 7 (5–11) in very preterm, 3 (0–4) in moderate-to-late preterm, and 3 (0–3) in term infants. The two most frequently prescribed drugs were benzylpenicillin and gentamicin in all GA groups, and caffeine in extremely preterm. Other frequently used drugs among preterm infants were electrolytes, diuretics and anti-reflux medications. Among infants <32 weeks’ GA, the largest increase in use was for surfactant (given on the neonatal unit), caffeine and probiotics, while domperidone and ranitidine had the largest decline.

Conclusion

Antibiotics, for all GAs and caffeine, among preterm infants, are the most frequently used drugs in neonatal medicine. Preterm infants are exposed to a high burden of drugs, particularly antibiotics. Changing patterns in use reflect the emergence of evidence in some areas but several non-evidence-based drugs continue to be used widely. Improvements are needed to ensure rational drug use on neonatal units.

Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03773289). Date of registration 21 Dec 2018.
Diagnosis of ulnar nerve entrapment anterior to the medial epicondyle by ultrasound elastography and diffusion tensor imaging with fiber tractography: a case report
Authors: Jaques Guillaume , Becce Fabio , Ledoux Jean-Baptiste , Durand Sébastien
Published: January 2022

Ulnar/cubital tunnel syndrome is the second most common compressive neuropathy of the upper limb. Permanent location of the ulnar nerve anterior to the medial epicondyle is extremely rare, with only five cases reported in the literature. Using ultrasound elastography and diffusion tensor imaging with fiber tractography, we diagnosed a case in which ulnar nerve entrapment was associated with anterior nerve location. Surgical release confirmed the diagnosis and the patient was symptom free 3 months after surgery.
Elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy: recurrent biliary admissions predispose to difficult cholecystectomy
Authors: Lucocq James , Scollay John , Patil Pradeep
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Patients undergoing elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy (ELLC) represent a heterogeneous group making it challenging to stratify risk. The aim of this paper is to identify pre-operative factors associated with adverse peri- and post-operative outcomes in patients undergoing ELLC. This knowledge will help stratify risk, guide surgical decision making and better inform the consent process.

Methods

All patients who underwent ELLC between January 2015 and December 2019 were included in the study. Pre-operative data and both peri- and post-operative outcomes were collected retrospectively from multiple databases using a deterministic records-linkage methodology. Patients were divided into groups based on clinical indication (i.e. biliary colic versus cholecystitis) and adverse outcomes were compared. Multivariate regression models were generated for each adverse outcome using pre-operative independent variables.

Results

Two-thousand one hundred and sixty-six ELLC were identified. Rates of peri- and post-operative adverse outcomes were significantly higher in the cholecystitis versus biliary colic group and increased with number of admissions of cholecystitis (p < 0.05). Rates of subtotal (29.5%), intra-operative complication (9.8%), post-operative complications (19.6%), prolonged post-operative stay (45.9%) and re-admission (16.4%) were significant in the group of patients with ≥ 2 admissions with cholecystitis.

Conclusion

Our data demonstrate that patients with repeated biliary admission (particularly cholecystitis) ultimately face an increased risk of a difficult ELLC with associated complications, prolonged post-operative stay and readmissions. These data provide robust evidence that individualised risk assessment and consent are necessary before ELLC. Strategies to minimise recurrent biliary admissions prior to LC should be implemented.
Laparoscopic versus robotic-assisted, left-sided colectomies: intra- and postoperative outcomes of 683 patients
Authors: Gass Jörn-Markus , Daume Diana , Schneider Romano , Steinemann Daniel , Mongelli Francesco , Scheiwiller Andreas , Fourie Lana , Kern Beatrice , von Flüe Markus , Metzger Jürg , Angehrn Fiorenzo , Bolli Martin
Published: January 2022

Background

Robotic-assisted colorectal surgery has gained more and more popularity over the last years. It seems to be advantageous to laparoscopic surgery in selected situations, especially in confined regions like a narrow male pelvis in rectal surgery. Whether robotic-assisted, left-sided colectomies can serve as safe training operations for less frequent, low anterior resections for rectal cancer is still under debate. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate intra- and postoperative results of robotic-assisted laparoscopy (RAL) compared to laparoscopic (LSC) surgery in left-sided colectomies.

Methods

Between June 2015 and December 2019, 683 patients undergoing minimally invasive left-sided colectomies in two Swiss, high-volume colorectal centers were included. Intra- and postoperative outcome parameters were collected and analyzed.

Results

A total of 179 patients undergoing RAL and 504 patients undergoing LSC were analyzed. Baseline characteristics showed similar results. Intraoperative complications occurred in 0.6% of RAL and 2.0% of LSC patients (p = 0.193). Differences in postoperative complications graded Dindo ≥ 3 were not statistically significant (RAL 3.9% vs. LSC 6.3%,p = 0.227). Occurrence of anastomotic leakages showed no statistically significant difference [RALn = 2 (1.1%), LSCn = 8 (1.6%),p = 0.653]. Length of hospital stay was similar in both groups. Conversions to open surgery were significantly higher in the LSC group (6.2% vs.1.7%,p = 0.018), while stoma formation was similar in both groups [RALn = 1 (0.6%), LSCn = 5 (1.0%),p = 0.594]. Operative time was longer in the RAL group (300 vs. 210.0 min,p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Robotic-assisted, left-sided colectomies are safe and feasible compared to laparoscopic resections. Intra- and postoperative complications are similar in both groups. Most notably, the rate of anastomotic leakages is similar. Compared to laparoscopic resections, the analyzed robotic-assisted resections have longer operative times but less conversion rates. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm the safety of robotic-assisted, left-sided colectomies as training procedures for low anterior resections.
Predicting surgical outcome in posterior retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy with the aid of a preoperative nomogram
Authors: van Uitert Allon , van de Wiel Elle C. J. , Ramjith Jordache , Deinum Jaap , Timmers Henri J. L. M. , Witjes J. Alfred , Kool Leo J. Schultze , Langenhuijsen Johan F.
Published: January 2022

Background

Posterior retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy (PRA) has several advantages over transperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy (TLA) regarding operative time, blood loss, postoperative pain, and recovery. However, it can be a technically challenging procedure. To improve patient selection for PRA, we developed a preoperative nomogram to predict operative time.

Methods

All consecutive patients with tumors of ≤ 7 cm and a body mass index (BMI) of < 35 kg/m2 undergoing unilateral PRA between February 2011 and March 2020 were included in the study. The primary outcome was operative time as surrogate endpoint for surgical complexity. Using ten patient variables, an optimal prediction model was created, with a best subsets regression analysis to find the best one-variable up to the best seven-variable model.

Results

In total 215 patients were included, with a mean age of 52 years and mean tumor size of 2.4 cm. After best subsets regression analysis, a four-variable nomogram was selected and calibrated. This model included sex, pheochromocytoma, BMI, and perinephric fat, which were all individually significant predictors. This model showed an ideal balance between predictive power and applicability, with an R2 of 38.6.

Conclusions

A four-variable nomogram was developed to predict operative time in PRA, which can aid the surgeon to preoperatively identify suitable patients for PRA. If the nomogram predicts longer operative time and therefore a more complex operation, TLA should be considered as an alternative approach since it provides a larger working space. Also, the nomogram can be used for training purposes to select patients with favorable characteristics when learning this surgical approach.
Improving the Numerical Modelling of In-Situ Rock Bolts Using Axial and Bending Strain Data from Instrumented Bolts
Authors: Singh Prasoon , Jang Hyongdoo , Spearing A. J. S. Sam
Published: January 2022

Numerical modelling has become an important tool in the underground rock bolt reinforcement designing process. Numerical modelling provides the advantage of easily and quickly simulating complex underground geometries and mechanisms with sensitivity analyses. However, a numerical model needs to be calibrated using mathematical solutions, lab testing or with actual in-situ observations and measurements (which is the preferred method) before its results can be quantitatively applied to reinforcement design. Instrumented rock bolts provide a useful data source for calibrating in-situ rock bolt models. In this work, procedures have been presented to identify and determine the orientation of structures in the rock mass based on the strains on the instrumented rock bolts. A method to calibrate the rock bolt model with in-situ data is also presented. The results of the presented procedures have been validated with laboratory tests and numerical modelling. The procedures have been applied to create and calibrate an in-situ rock bolt model in FLAC3D and the results are validated using in-situ data.
Correlation of retinal alterations with vascular structure of macular neovascularisation in swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography in age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Faatz Henrik , Rothaus Kai , Ziegler Martin , Book Marius , Spital Georg , Heimes-Bussmann Britta , Pauleikhoff Daniel , Lommatzsch Albrecht
Published: January 2022

Purpose

The aim of this study was to find out whether the vascular architecture of untreated macular neovascularisations (MNV) in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) as visualised with optic coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) is associated with functional and known morphological alterations of the retina in optic coherence tomography (SD-OCT).

Methods

The study design was retrospective with consecutive patient inclusion. In 107 patients with newly diagnosed nAMD, MNV were detected by means of OCTA and automated quantitative vascular analysis was performed. The MNV characteristics measured were area, flow density, total vascular length (sumL), density of vascular nodes (numN), fractal dimension (FD) and average vascular width (avgW). These parameters were assessed for associations with vision (BCVA), central retinal thickness (CRT), fluid distribution, the elevation of any pigment epithelial detachment (PED), the occurrence of subretinal haemorrhage and atrophy.

Results

BCVA was significantly worse with greater MNV area and sumL. Fluid distribution differed significantly in relation to area (p < 0.005), sumL (p < 0.005) and FD (p = 0.001). Greater PED height was significantly associated with higher numN (p < 0.05) and lower avgW (p < 0.05). Atrophy was present significantly more often in MNV with larger area (p < 0.05), higher sumL (p < 0.05) and higher flow density (p = 0.002). None of the MNV parameters had a significant association with CRT or the occurrence of haemorrhage.

Conclusion

OCTA is not restricted to evaluation of secondary changes but offers the opportunity to analyse the vascular structure of MNV in detail. Differences in vascular morphology are associated with certain secondary changes in retinal morphology. There are thus grounds for optimism that further research may identify and classify OCTA-based markers to permit more individualised treatment of nAMD.
Preventive Group Training Improves Children’s Outcomes after Divorce: A Dutch Quasi-experimental Study
Authors: Klein Velderman Mariska , van Dommelen Paula , Pannebakker Fieke D. , Reijneveld Sijmen A.
Published: January 2022

Worldwide, many children experience parental separation and divorce. This has a significant impact on their well-being, and emotional and behavioral functioning, and calls for prevention. To assess the effects of the Children of Divorce Intervention Program in the Netherlands (CODIP-NL) on 6- to 8-year-olds, we performed a quasi-experimental effect study. The study compared children receiving CODIP-NL (intervention: I, n = 104), children not receiving CODIP-NL but having divorced parents (divorced control: DC, n = 37), and children belonging to non-divorced families (non-divorced control: NDC, n = 138). Outcomes pertained to children’s positive functioning, emotional and behavioral problems, and well-being. We assessed pre- to post-test differences in change in mother-reported outcomes between the intervention and control groups, and pre- to post-test differences in group leader reports. The intervention led to increases in mother-reported positive functioning (d = 0.97 I vs. DC; d = 1.04 I vs. NDC), and well-being (d = 1.00 I vs. DC; d = 0.84 I vs. NDC). Mother-reported child emotional and behavioral problems decreased after participation (total difficulties, d = 0.73 I vs. DC; d = 0.49 I vs. NDC). Group leader-reported pre- to post-test differences (p ≤ 0.001) pointed in the same directions. Findings support further implementation of CODIP to support children’s positive functioning and well-being, and to decrease emotional and behavioral problems after their parents’ divorce.
Exploratory Restricted Latent Class Models with Monotonicity Requirements under Pòlya—gamma Data Augmentation
Authors: Balamuta James Joseph , Culpepper Steven Andrew
Published: January 2022

Restricted latent class models (RLCMs) provide an important framework for supporting diagnostic research in education and psychology. Recent research proposed fully exploratory methods for inferring the latent structure. However, prior research is limited by the use of restrictive monotonicity condition or prior formulations that are unable to incorporate prior information about the latent structure to validate expert knowledge. We develop new methods that relax existing monotonicity restrictions and provide greater insight about the latent structure. Furthermore, existing Bayesian methods only use a probit link function and we provide a new formulation for using the exploratory RLCM with a logit link function that has an additional advantage of being computationally more efficient for larger sample sizes. We present four new Bayesian formulations that employ different link functions (i.e., the logit using the Pòlya—gamma data augmentation versus the probit) and priors for inducing sparsity in the latent structure. We report Monte Carlo simulation studies to demonstrate accurate parameter recovery. Furthermore, we report results from an application to the Last Series of the Standard Progressive Matrices to illustrate our new methods.
Exposure of FeCrAl Overlay Welds on Superheater Tubes: Influence of Local Environment on Degradation
Authors: Valiente Bermejo M. A. , Magniez L. , Jonasson A. , Selin S. , Frodigh M. , Hurtig K. , Stridh L-E. , Karlsson L.
Published: January 2022

Two experimental FeCrAl alloy overlay welds on tube shields were exposed in the superheater of a full-size waste fired boiler for 6 months. The tube shields were in different tube lines and positions within the superheater chamber to investigate possible heterogeneities in the exposure environment. The visual inspection of the exposed tube shields and the corrosion-erosion rates calculated from the analysis of cross-sections showed that the mid-length roof location experienced the most aggressive environment. The compositional differences between the two experimental alloys were not found to be determinant in their performance under these specific exposure conditions. It was concluded that erosion had a decisive influence on the results. The identification of local differences within the superheater chamber is important when deciding on the material selection for the different areas and locations to be protected. The output of this study is therefore interesting for further design consideration of superheaters as well as for future planning of exposures.
Eligible strategies of drought response to improve drought resistance in woody crops: a mini-review
Authors: Carraro Elia , Di Iorio Antonino
Published: January 2022

Drought is the main abiotic stress that negatively affects the crop yield. Due to the rapid climate change, actual plant defence mechanisms may be less effective against increased drought stress and other related or co-occurring abiotic stresses such as salt and high temperature. Thus, genetic engineering approaches may be an important tool for improving drought tolerance in crops. This mini-review focuses on the responses to drought stress of the woody crop species Olea europaea and Citrus sp., selecting in particular five main strategies adopted by plants in response to drought stress: aquaporin (AQPs) expression, antioxidant activity, ABA signalling, and trehalose and proline accumulation. Transgenic studies on both the herbaceous Arabidopsis and woody Populus plant models showed an improvement in drought resistance with increasing expression of these drought-inducible genes. Outcomes from the present study suggest the overexpression of the gene families associated with AQPs and ABA biosynthesis, mainly involved in regulating water transport and in preventing water loss, respectively, as candidate targets for improving drought resistance; antioxidants-, trehalose- and proline-related genes remain valid candidates for resistance to a wider spectrum of abiotic stressors, including drought. However, the contribution of an increased stiffness of the modulus elasticity of leaf parenchyma cell walls to the rapid recovery of leaf water potential, delaying by this way the stress onset, is not a secondary aspect of the transgenic optimization, in particular for Olea cultivars.
The effects of dimethyl fumarate and fingolimod on T-cell lymphocyte proliferation in patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Reynolds Audrey , Gaughan Maria , Holden Dean , Redenbaugh Vyanka , Dunne Jean , Redmond Janice , Conlon Niall
Published: January 2022

Objective

The disease-modifying therapies (DMT), dimethyl fumarate (DMF) and fingolimod (FTY) improve the outcomes in multiple sclerosis (MS) by reducing relapses and numbers and volume of lesions. They mediate their effects through reduction of immune reactivation, which may potentially lead to lymphopaenia and increased risk of infections. Previous studies have examined the effects of these therapies on lymphocyte subsets; however, the in vivo effects on circulating lymphocyte proliferation require further elucidation. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of DMF and FTY on T-cell proliferation in patients with MS.

Method

We examined T-cell lymphocyte proliferation and lymphocyte subsets in ten patients (five on DMF, five on FTY) before starting DMT and again 4 to 11 months after being maintained on DMT.

Results

In the FTY-treated group, the mean percentage proliferation was significantly lower using both assays (PHA assay mean percentage change − 51.2 ± 25.97, p < 0.05; anti-CD3/CD28 assay mean percentage change − 39.74 ± 27.85, p < 0.05). There was no statistical difference in T-cell lymphocyte proliferation in the DMF-treated group for either assay (PHA, p = 0.316; anti-CD3/CD28, p = 0.373).

Conclusions

This pilot study suggests that the T-lymphocytes of patients on FTY have an abnormal proliferation response as well as being reduced in the circulation.
Curcuma longa L. Prevents the Loss of β-Tubulin in the Brain and Maintains Healthy Aging in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Rahman Md. Mashiar , Noman Md. Abdullah Al , Hossain Md. Walid , Alam Rahat , Akter Selena , Kabir Md. Masnoon , Uddin Mohammad Jashim , Amin Md. Ziaul , Syfuddin H. M. , Akhter Shahina , Karpiński Tomasz M.
Published: January 2022

Loss of tubulin is associated with neurodegeneration and brain aging. Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) has frequently been employed as a spice in curry and traditional medications in the Indian subcontinent to attain longevity and better cognitive performance. We aimed to evaluate the unelucidated mechanism of how turmeric protects the brain to be an anti-aging agent. D. melanogaster was cultured on a regular diet and turmeric-supplemented diet. β-tubulin level and physiological traits including survivability, locomotor activity, fertility, tolerance to oxidative stress, and eye health were analyzed. Turmeric showed a hormetic effect, and 0.5% turmeric was the optimal dose in preventing aging. β-tubulin protein level was decreased in the brain of D. melanogaster upon aging, while a 0.5% turmeric-supplemented diet predominantly prevented this aging-induced loss of β-tubulin and degeneration of physiological traits as well as improved β-tubulin synthesis in the brain of D. melanogaster early to mid-age. The higher concentration (≥ 1%) of turmeric-supplemented diet decreased the β-tubulin level and degenerated many of the physiological traits of D. melanogaster. The turmeric concentration-dependent increase and decrease of β-tubulin level were consistent with the increment and decrement data obtained from the evaluated physiological traits. This correlation demonstrated that turmeric targets β-tubulin and has both beneficial and detrimental effects that depend on the concentration of turmeric. The findings of this study concluded that an optimal dosage of turmeric could maintain a healthy neuron and thus healthy aging, by preventing the loss and increasing the level of β-tubulin in the brain.
Intersectoral and spatial spill-overs of firms’ bankruptcy in Spain
Authors: Serra Laura , Detotto Claudio , Juan Pablo , Vannini Marco
Published: January 2022

This paper employs provincial data to study the spatial and intersectoral spill-overs in aggregate failure rates in Spain, by using an Integrated Nested Laplace Approximation. The analysis is based on NUTS3 data over the time span 2005Q1-2013Q4. By speculating on the effects of the Spanish financial crisis, we document empirical evidence of the presence of spatial spill-overs among neighboring counties. Furthermore, some intersectoral spill-overs are also detected: we observe that Industry and Agriculture exhibit a positive impact on the Service sector. These results can be useful to design proper policy rules to better manage the spread of bankruptcies over time and space.
The Work Environment of Immigrant Employees in Sweden—a Systematic Review
Authors: Akay Pinar Aslan , Ahmadi Nader
Published: January 2022

The aim of this systematic review was to summarize and synthesize research results focusing on the work environment of employees with an immigrant background in Sweden. We focus on the main conditions identified in the working environment of immigrant employees and how these conditions may affect their health and well-being. The concept of “minority stress” and the attachment theory are used to understand and interpret the findings. We systematically searched for literature published between the years of 1990 and 2020 in four databases, Web of Science, PubMed, SocIndex, and Academic Search Elite. We started the selection process by reading title and abstracts, then proceeded to read a selection of full-text studies and eliminated those that did not fulfil the inclusion criteria. We did a quality assessment on the full-text studies based on the MMAT-tool, and then performed a narrative synthesis of the results. The results show that immigrants experience several stressors in their work environment, including physical, psychological, and social risks. These risks are, among other things, associated with the nature of the jobs that immigrants are overrepresented in, with minority-related stressors such as discrimination, harassment, and threats on the basis of ethnic background, and with the lack of social support from managers and colleagues. Results also highlight beneficial factors in the immigrants’ working environment and show the importance of a supportive, inclusive, and empowering management. Our main conclusion is that Swedish workplaces need to introduce more active measures to raise awareness of and combat workplace discrimination, work harder to promote inclusion at the workplace, and eliminate physical, psychological, and social health hazards specific to immigrant employees. The leadership and management have an important role to play here, as does the employees’ trade unions and its special functions.
Optimizing Health and Athletic Performance for Women
Authors: de Borja Celina , Chang Cindy J. , Watkins Rhonda , Senter Carlin
Published: January 2022

Purpose of Review

The exponential growth of women participating in competitive sports throughout the years was made possible through several initiatives by the International Olympic Committee and the passage and implementation of Title IX as a federal law in the United States. However, this positive trend towards gender equity in sports has not transpired for women in medicine, especially in fields that care for elite athletes. This current review will discuss specific areas that can be tailored to help female athletes prevent injuries and optimize their athletic performance. We will also highlight how increased female team physician representation in sports may help optimize care for female athletes.

Recent Findings

Female athletes are considered high risk for certain conditions such as ACL tears, patellofemoral pain syndrome, bone stress injuries, sport-related concussions, and sexual violence in sport. Addressing factors specific to female athletes has been found to be valuable in preventing injuries. Strength and conditioning can optimize athletic performance but remains underutilized among female athletes. Although diversity in healthcare workforce has been found to be beneficial for multiple reasons, women remain underrepresented in sports medicine. Increasing female team physician representation may positively impact care for female athletes.

Team physicians must understand the physiologic, biomechanical, and anatomic factors that are unique to female athletes in order to tailor injury prevention programs and optimize their athletic performance. Advocating for gender equity in sports medicine to advance representation of women in the field will increase workforce diversity and promote excellence in sports medicine care.