bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐Efficiency Nondoped White Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes Based on All‐Exciplex Emission
Authors: Xu Xinglei , Zhao Yu , Zhou Xiaowen , Wu Yuanyuan , He Gufeng
Published: June 2021

A nondoped full‐exciplex approach is applied in white organic light‐emitting diodes (WOLEDs). Both the blue emission and yellow emission are from exciplex, which makes it possible to exceed the 25% internal quantum efficiency limit of normal fluorescent OLEDs via reverse intersystem crossing from triplet to singlet states because of the small energy gap between them. White emission can be realized by simply stacking the blue and yellow exciplex materials because the same acceptor material is used in the emitting systems. And a two‐color WOLED with an external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 6.11% is demonstrated, exceeding the efficiencies of the exciplex‐based blue and yellow monochrome devices. The higher efficiency is attributed to redistribution of the exciplex excitons, which suppresses the exciton concentration quenching at the emission interface. By adopting a quantum‐well‐like structure, the EQE can be further improved. This approach sheds light on the simple fabrication of high‐efficiency WOLEDs in the future.
High‐Visible‐Light Photocatalytic Activity of ZnO–Au Nanocomposites Synthesized by a Controlled Hydrothermal Method
Authors: Yao Chujun , Lin Jiamin , Wu Li , Li Lequn , Xu Ning , Sun Jian , Wu Jiada
Published: June 2021

Powdered Au‐nanoparticle‐modified ZnO (ZnO–Au) nanocomposites having high photocatalytic activity are synthesized via a simple, facile, and controlled method. Through hydrothermal reactions, ZnO nanorods are first grown and the rod surface is then decorated with Au nanoparticles, with the number of Au nanoparticles being adjustable by changing the concentration of tetrachloroauric acid (HAuCl4) in the precursor hydrothermal solution. The ZnO nanorods have an average length of 2 μm and diameter of 300 nm, and the Au nanoparticles are nearly spherical sized between 5 and 10 nm. The ZnO–Au nanocomposites have a higher light absorption capacity and lower carrier recombination rate than the bare ZnO nanorods, which is attributed to the plasmonic sensitizing of Au nanoparticles and makes the synthesized ZnO–Au nanocomposites photocatalytically active. The photocatalytic activity of the ZnO–Au nanocomposites is investigated by degrading rhodamine B (RhB) under visible light illumination, demonstrating that RhB can be photocatalytically degraded more efficiently with the ZnO–Au nanocomposites than with the bare ZnO nanorods, with the rate constant increasing from 6.36 × 10−4 min−1 for the bare ZnO nanorods to 1.19 × 10−2 min−1 for the ZnO–Au nanocomposites. The ZnO–Au nanocomposites also exhibit good photocatalytic stability and can be reused as photocatalysts.
Compound‐specific stable hydrogen isotope (δ2H) analyses of fatty acids: A new method and perspectives for trophic and movement ecology
Authors: Pilecky Matthias , Winter Katharina , Wassenaar Leonard I. , Kainz Martin J.
Published: June 2021

Rationale

Compound‐specific stable isotope analysis (CSIA) is a powerful tool for a better understanding of trophic transfer of dietary molecules in and across ecosystems. Hydrogen isotope values (δ2H) in consumer tissues have potential to more clearly distinguish dietary sources than 13C or 15N values within and among habitats, but have not been used at the fatty acid level for ecological purposes.

Methods

Here we demonstrate a new online high‐capacity gas chromatography–isotope ratio mass spectrometry technique (2H‐CSIA) that offers accurate and reproducible determination of δ2H values for a range of fatty acids from organisms of aquatic food webs.

Results

We show that lipid extracts obtained from aquatic sources, such as biofilms, leaves, invertebrates, or fish muscle tissue, have distinctive δ2H values that can be used to assess sources and trophic interactions, as well as dietary allocation and origin of fatty acids within consumer tissue.

Conclusions

The new 2H‐CSIA method can be applied to evaluate sources and trophic dynamics of fatty acids in organisms ranging from food web ecology to migratory connectivity.
Robot‐assisted kidney transplantation is a safe alternative approach for morbidly obese patients with end‐stage renal disease
Authors: Lee Seung Duk , Rawashdeh Badi , McCracken Emily K. E. , Cantrell Leigh A. , Kharwat Bassel , Demirag Alp , Agarwal Avinash , Brayman Kenneth L. , Pelletier Shawn J. , Goldaracena Nicolas , Fox Emily , Oberholzer José
Published: June 2021

Background

Many centres deny obese patients with a body mass index (BMI) >35 access to kidney transplantation due to increased intraoperative and postoperative complications.

Methods

From August 2017 to December 2019, 73 consecutive cases of kidney transplantation in morbidly obese patients were enrolled at a single university at the initiation of a robotic transplant surgery program. Outcomes of patients who underwent robotic assisted kidney transplant (RAKT) were compared to frequency‐matched patients undergoing open kidney transplant (OKT).

Results

A total of 24 morbidly obese patients successfully underwent RAKT, and 49 obese patients received an OKT. The RAKT group developed fewer surgical site infections (SSI) than the OKT group. Graft function, creatinine, and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) were similar between groups 1 year after surgery. Graft and patient survival were 100% for both groups.

Conclusions

RAKT offers a safe alternative for morbidly obese patients, who may otherwise be denied access to OKT.
Short‐term impact of beaver dam analogues on streambank erosion and deposition in Semi‐Arid landscapes of the Western USA
Authors: Pearce Casey , Vidon Philippe , Lautz Laura , Kelleher Christa , Davis Julianne
Published: June 2021

River systems in the mountain western USA have been shaped by the presence of beavers for millennia. However, beavers have been extirpated from the landscape in many places, leading to excessive stream incision and streambank erosion. One common strategy to mitigate this issue is to deploy beaver dam analogue (BDAs) as a stream restoration technique. Although BDAs are intended to reduce erosion and stream incision, few studies directly document the impact of BDAs on stream channel geomorphology. This study, therefore, assesses how a complex of five BDAs along a 150 m long stream reach in Red Canyon Ranch near Lander, WY impacts stream bank erosion and deposition and channel evolution over a 1‐year period post‐installation. Relative to control locations not impacted by BDAs, the BDA reach showed greater spatial heterogeneity in erosion and deposition patterns than control locations, as well as less overall erosion. However, each BDA had unique effects on channel morphology. Large amounts of deposition were found at the most upstream BDA remaining after the first year at both inner and outer meander locations. High flow events created breaches that likely produced significant stream bank erosion observed immediately downstream of the BDA complex. From a design standpoint, the only BDAs that remained after a year were those built around fence posts inserted into the stream bed with a percussion fence post driver. Overall, our short‐term data indicate that BDAs can be successfully used as a stream restoration practice to reduce stream bank erosion and increase channel geomorphological heterogeneity.
Bending Behavior of Zinc‐Coated Hot Stamping Steels
Authors: Hofer Christina , Stadler Manfred , Kurz Thomas , Maier-Kiener Verena , Mayerhofer Alexander , Hebesberger Thomas , Schnitzer Ronald
Published: June 2021

In the automotive industry, ultrahigh strength steels allow downgauging while, at the same time, passenger safety is increased. To expand the application fields of martensitic steels, which are frequently produced via hot stamping, cathodic corrosion protection is required. To date, zinc‐coated components are mainly processed via the detour of cold forming, but a precooling step to solidify all zinc phases prior to hot stamping shows great potential to overcome this limitation. Therefore, herein, directly quenched 22MnB5 is compared with an adapted alloy (20MnB8) after quenching with a precooling step. Bendability is used to assess the crash performance. In addition to the damage evolution, investigated via interrupted bending tests, a detailed microstructural analysis of the near‐surface region with respect to grain size, decaburization, inclusions, and other second phases is carried out. While 22MnB5 shows a fully martensitic microstructure, individual ferrite grains are observed within the martensitic matrix in the near‐surface region of 20MnB8. Carbon redistribution from ferrite to the surrounding martensite entails large hardness differences between the constituents as determined by nanoindentation, resulting in an earlier onset of strain localization and, therefore, decreased local formability.
Corrosion protection for cold‐formed structural steel elements
Authors: Britner Alexander , Dieu Corinne , Podleschny Ralf
Published: June 2021

Unprotected steel and steel structures exposed to the atmosphere inevitably corrode. For thin‐gauged structures especially, corrosion is critical for stability. Although the reduction in thickness caused by corrosion is insignificant for some structures, in other structures corrosion is unacceptable. Therefore, corrosion protection is a crucial issue for steel structures and the steel industry. Over the last decades, many new corrosion protection systems and innovative steel products have been introduced onto the market. Corrosion protection for cold‐formed structural steel elements has been standardized through the introduction of the EN 1090‐4. This paper introduces the harmonized rules for the corrosion protection of loadbearing thin‐gauged structures. The zinc‐magnesium‐aluminium (ZM) metal coating system developed in recent years is also dealt with.
Yukawa coupling unification in an SO(10) model consistent with Fermilab (g − 2)μ result
Authors: Aboubrahim Amin , Nath Pran , Syed Raza M.
Published: June 2021

Abstract

We investigate the Yukawa coupling unification for the third generation in a class of SO(10) unified models which are consistent with the 4.2 σ deviation from the standard model of the muon g − 2 seen by the Fermilab experiment E989. A recent analysis in supergravity grand unified models shows that such an effect can arise from supersymmetric loops correction. Using a neural network, we further analyze regions of the parameter space where Yukawa coupling unification consistent with the Fermilab result can appear. In the analysis we take into account the contributions to Yukawas from the cubic and the quartic interactions. We test the model at the high luminosity and high energy LHC and estimate the integrated luminosities needed to discover sparticles predicted by the model.
A non-relativistic limit of NS-NS gravity
Authors: Bergshoeff E. A. , Lahnsteiner J. , Romano L. , Rosseel J. , Şimşek C.
Published: June 2021

Abstract

We discuss a particular non-relativistic limit of NS-NS gravity that can be taken at the level of the action and equations of motion, without imposing any geometric constraints by hand. This relies on the fact that terms that diverge in the limit and that come from the Vielbein in the Einstein-Hilbert term and from the kinetic term of the Kalb-Ramond two-form field cancel against each other. This cancelling of divergences is the target space analogue of a similar cancellation that takes place at the level of the string sigma model between the Vielbein in the kinetic term and the Kalb-Ramond field in the Wess-Zumino term. The limit of the equations of motion leads to one equation more than the limit of the action, due to the emergence of a local target space scale invariance in the limit. Some of the equations of motion can be solved by scale invariant geometric constraints. These constraints define a so-called Dilatation invariant String Newton-Cartan geometry.
An Introduction to Hyperholomorphic Spectral Theories and Fractional Powers of Vector Operators
Authors: Colombo Fabrizio , Gantner Jonathan , Pinton Stefano
Published: June 2021

The aim of this paper is to give an overview of the spectral theories associated with the notions of holomorphicity in dimension greater than one. A first natural extension is the theory of several complex variables whose Cauchy formula is used to define the holomorphic functional calculus for n-tuples of operators $$(A_1,\ldots ,A_n)$$

(

A
1

,
…
,

A
n

)

. A second way is to consider hyperholomorphic functions of quaternionic or paravector variables. In this case, by the Fueter-Sce-Qian mapping theorem, we have two different notions of hyperholomorphic functions that are called slice hyperholomorphic functions and monogenic functions. Slice hyperholomorphic functions generate the spectral theory based on the S-spectrum while monogenic functions induce the spectral theory based on the monogenic spectrum. There is also an interesting relation between the two hyperholomorphic spectral theories via the F-functional calculus. The two hyperholomorphic spectral theories have different and complementary applications. We finally discuss how to define the fractional Fourier’s law for nonhomogeneous materials using the spectral theory on the S-spectrum.
Continuity of solutions to a nonlinear fractional diffusion equation
Authors: Brasco Lorenzo , Lindgren Erik , Strömqvist Martin
Published: June 2021

We study a parabolic equation for the fractional p-Laplacian of order s, for $$p\ge 2$$

p
≥
2

and $$0<s<1$$

0
<
s
<
1

. We provide space-time Hölder estimates for weak solutions, with explicit exponents. The proofs are based on iterated discrete differentiation of the equation in the spirit of Moser’s technique.
Rigidity of Branching Microstructures in Shape Memory Alloys
Authors: Simon Theresa M.
Published: June 2021

We analyze generic sequences for which the geometrically linear energy$$\begin{aligned} E_\eta (u,\chi )\,{:}{=} \,\eta ^{-\frac{2}{3}}\int _{B_{1}\left( 0\right) } \left| e(u)- \sum _{i=1}^3 \chi _ie_i\right| ^2 \, \mathrm {d}x+\eta ^\frac{1}{3} \sum _{i=1}^3 |D\chi _i|({B_{1}\left( 0\right) }) \end{aligned}$$Eη(u,χ):=η-23∫B10e(u)-∑i=13χiei2dx+η13∑i=13|Dχi|(B10)remains bounded in the limit$$\eta \rightarrow 0$$η→0. Here$$ e(u) \,{:}{=}\,1/2(Du + Du^T)$$e(u):=1/2(Du+DuT)is the (linearized) strain of the displacementu, the strains$$e_i$$eicorrespond to the martensite strains of a shape memory alloy undergoing cubic-to-tetragonal transformations and the partition into phases is given by$$\chi _i:{B_{1}\left( 0\right) } \rightarrow \{0,1\}$$χi:B10→{0,1}. In this regime it is known that in addition to simple laminates, branched structures are also possible, which if austenite was present would enable the alloy to form habit planes. In an ansatz-free manner we prove that the alignment of macroscopic interfaces between martensite twins is as predicted by well-known rank-one conditions. Our proof proceeds via the non-convex, non-discrete-valued differential inclusion$$\begin{aligned} e(u) \in \bigcup _{1\le i\ne j\le 3} {\text {conv}} \{e_i,e_j\}, \end{aligned}$$e(u)∈⋃1≤i≠j≤3conv{ei,ej},satisfied by the weak limits of bounded energy sequences and of which we classify all solutions. In particular, there exist no convex integration solutions of the inclusion with complicated geometric structures.
Novel Approach via the Round Ligament in Portal Vein Embolization
Authors: Yamao Takanobu , Tamura Yoshitaka , Hayashi Hiromitsu , Takematsu Toru , Higashi Takaaki , Yamamura Kensuke , Imai Katsunori , Yamashita Yo‐ichi , Ikeda Osamu , Baba Hideo
Published: June 2021

Background

The objective of this study was to describe the detailed technique and clinical outcomes of portal vein embolization via the round ligament (RL‐PVE) prior to major hepatectomy.

Methods

Between January 2010 and March 2020, a total of 50 portal vein embolization (PVE) procedures were performed in 50 patients. Of them, seven patients who underwent RL‐PVE were enrolled in this study. Percutaneous transhepatic portal vein embolization (PTPE) was not indicated due to the following reasons: bile duct dilation (n = 4), difficulty in visualizing the portal vein on ultrasonography because of severe fatty liver (n = 1), large tumor size (n = 1), and combined surgery with staging laparoscopy (n = 1). The following were reasons for avoiding trans‐ileocecal PVE: past laparotomy (n = 5), difficulty in accessing the portal vein due to a large tumor (n = 1), and purpose of preventing small intestinal adhesions before hepatopancreatoduodenectomy (n = 1). The percentage of functional hepatic remnant rates was calculated before and after RL‐PVE.

Results

Technical success was achieved in all cases. Five patients underwent embolization of the right portal vein, while two underwent embolization of the left portal vein. The median operative time and blood loss during RL‐PVE were 181 min and 33 g, respectively. Morbidity and mortality related to RL‐PVE were not observed. The median functional hepatic remnant rate before and after PVE was 55.6% and 63.2%, respectively. Liver functions including Child–Pugh classification were equivalent before and after RL‐PVE.

Conclusions

The RL‐PVE technique may be useful in elective cases for which it is difficult to safely perform PTPE or trans‐ileocecal approaches.
Specific knowledge and resilience affect short-term outcome in patients following primary total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Bumberger Alexander , Borst Katharina , Willegger Madeleine , Hobusch Gerhard M. , Windhager Reinhard , Waldstein Wenzel , Domayer Stephan
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The aim of the present study was to investigate the potential associations between specific knowledge, resilience and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMS) following primary total hip arthroplasty (THA).

Methods

In a cross-sectional prospective study, consecutive patients following primary THA were included at a rehabilitation center. A novel knowledge score and the validated Connor Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC) were utilized to assess patients’ specific knowledge and resilience, respectively. Additionally, patients completed a qualitative questionnaire regarding the information they had received. The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), as well as the University of California and Los Angeles Score (UCLA) served as primary outcome measures. Stepwise multiple regression analysis was performed to identify potential predictors of outcome.

Results

A total of 103 patients at a mean age of 67.5 years (SD 10.5, 38–88) were included in the analysis at a median of 55.5 days (IQR 43–81) following primary THA. The mean knowledge and resilience scores were 3.8 (SD 1.6, 0–7) and 69.5 (SD 18.5, 0–100), respectively. Forty-seven percent of patients were afraid of harming their prosthesis and these patients had up to 59% worse WOMAC scores (p < 0.001). WOMAC scores on admission to rehabilitation were predicted by resilience and knowledge scores (R2 = 0.106, p = 0.036). UCLA scores at the time of admission were predicted by knowledge scores (R2 = 0.078, p = 0.007).

Conclusion

The present study demonstrated that patients with a feeling of uncertainty had an inferior short-term functional outcome following primary THA. Moreover, it could be shown that higher specific knowledge and resilience are associated with a better functional outcome according to validated PROMS. While these findings need to be prospectively validated in future studies, specific patient knowledge and resilience may have a direct impact on the outcome of primary THA.
Cytoplasmic LXR expression is an independent marker of poor prognosis for patients with early stage primary breast cancer
Authors: Shao Wanting , Kuhn Christina , Mayr Doris , Ditsch Nina , Kailuwait Magdalena , Wolf Verena , Harbeck Nadia , Mahner Sven , Jeschke Udo , Cavaillès Vincent , Sixou Sophie
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of liver X receptors α/β (LXR) in primary breast cancer (BC) tissues and to analyze its correlations with clinicopathological parameters including patient survival.

Methods

In a well-characterized cohort of 305 primary BC, subcellular distribution of LXR was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Correlations with clinicopathological characteristics as well as with patient outcome were analyzed.

Results

LXR was frequently localized in both nuclei and cytoplasms of BC cells, with stronger staining in nuclei. Total and nuclear LXR expression was positively correlated with ER and PR status. Overall survival analysis demonstrated that cytoplasmic LXR was significantly correlated with poor survival and appeared as an independent marker of poor prognosis, in stage I but not in stage II–III tumors

Conclusion

Altogether, these data suggest that cytoplasmic LXR could be defined as a prognostic marker in early stage primary BC.
Current challenges and opportunities for pharmacogenomics: perspective of the Industry Pharmacogenomics Working Group (I-PWG)
Authors: Bienfait Karina , Chhibber Aparna , Marshall Jean-Claude , Armstrong Martin , Cox Charles , Shaw Peter M. , Paulding Charles
Published: June 2021

Pharmaceutical companies have increasingly utilized genomic data for the selection of drug targets and the development of precision medicine approaches. Most major pharmaceutical companies routinely collect DNA from clinical trial participants and conduct pharmacogenomic (PGx) studies. However, the implementation of PGx studies during clinical development presents a number of challenges. These challenges include adapting to a constantly changing global regulatory environment, challenges in study design and clinical implementation, and the increasing concerns over patient privacy. Advances in the field of genomics are also providing new opportunities for pharmaceutical companies, including the availability of large genomic databases linked to patient health information, the growing use of polygenic risk scores, and the direct sequencing of clinical trial participants. The Industry Pharmacogenomics Working Group (I-PWG) is an association of pharmaceutical companies actively working in the field of pharmacogenomics. This I-PWG perspective will provide an overview of the steps pharmaceutical companies are taking to address each of these challenges, and the approaches being taken to capitalize on emerging scientific opportunities.
Acute kidney injury in patients undergoing elective primary lower limb arthroplasty
Authors: Farrow Luke , Smillie Stacey , Duncumb Joseph , Chan Brian , Cranfield Karen , Ashcroft George , Stevenson Iain
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Recent research has outlined the increasing incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) and its effect on morbidity/mortality. There is evidence that current rates are significantly under-reported nationally, with uncertainty about pre-operative factors that might influence AKI reduction and the impact on other healthcare outcomes such as mortality and later Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) development. We set out to help address these current deficiencies in the literature.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was undertaken using data collected from patients undergoing elective primary lower limb arthroplasty within our institution from 01/10/16–31/09/17 with a 2-year follow-up.

Results

53/782 (6.8%) patients had an AKI during the study time period. This was associated with a longer inpatient stay (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in 30-day mortality (p = 0.134), 30-day readmission (p = 1.00) or later CKD development (p = 0.63). Independent predictors of AKI were as follows: Diabetes (OR 2.49; 95%CI 1.15–5.38; p = 0.021), CKD (OR 4.59; 95%CI 2.37–8.92; p < 0.001) and Male sex (OR 2.61; 95%CI 1.42–4.78; p = 0.002).

Conclusions

AKI in those undergoing hip and knee arthroplasty remains under-reported at a national level. AKI development was associated with an increased length of stay, but not long-term healthcare outcomes. This may be due to the mechanism of AKI development or the low absolute numbers of AKI suffered. We have identified three pre-operative factors (Diabetes, CKD & Male Sex) that were independently predictive of AKI. Targeted interventions may reduce the risk of AKI after lower limb arthroplasty.
From Uniaxial Testing of Isolated Layers to a Tri-Layered Arterial Wall: A Novel Constitutive Modelling Framework
Authors: Giudici Alessandro , Khir Ashraf W. , Szafron Jason M. , Spronck Bart
Published: June 2021

Mechanical testing and constitutive modelling of isolated arterial layers yields insight into the individual layers’ mechanical properties, but per se fails to recapitulate the in vivo loading state, neglecting layer-specific residual stresses. The aim of this study was to develop a testing/modelling framework that integrates layer-specific uniaxial testing data into a three-layered model of the arterial wall, thereby enabling study of layer-specific mechanics under realistic (patho)physiological conditions. Circumferentially and axially oriented strips of pig thoracic aortas (n = 10) were tested uniaxially. Individual arterial layers were then isolated from the wall, tested, and their mechanical behaviour modelled using a hyperelastic strain energy function. Subsequently, the three layers were computationally assembled into a single flat-walled sample, deformed into a cylindrical vessel, and subjected to physiological tension-inflation. At the in vivo axial stretch of 1.10 ± 0.03, average circumferential wall stress was 75 ± 9 kPa at 100 mmHg, which almost doubled to 138 ± 15 kPa at 160 mmHg. A ~ 200% stiffening of the adventitia over the 60 mmHg pressure increase shifted layer-specific load-bearing from the media (65 ± 10% → 61 ± 14%) to the adventitia (28 ± 9% → 32 ± 14%). Our approach provides valuable insight into the (patho)physiological mechanical roles of individual arterial layers at different loading states, and can be implemented conveniently using simple, inexpensive and widely available uniaxial testing equipment.
Representation, Propagation, and Interpretation of Uncertain Knowledge in Dynamic Probabilistic Material Flow Models
Authors: Bornhöft Nikolaus A. , Nowack Bernd , Hilty Lorenz M.
Published: June 2021

The determination of the environmental concentration of a pollutant is a crucial step in the risk assessment of anthropogenic substances. Dynamic probabilistic material flow analysis (DPMFA) is a method to predict flows of substances to the environment that can be converted into environmental concentrations. In cases where direct quantitative measurements of concentrations are impossible, environmental stocks are predicted by reproducing the flow processes creating these stocks in a mathematical model. Incomplete parameter knowledge is represented in the form of stochastic distributions and propagated through the model using Monte Carlo simulation. This work discusses suitable means for the model design and the representation of system knowledge from several information sources of varying credibility as model parameter distributions, further evaluation of the simulation outcomes using sensitivity analyses, and the impacts of parameter uncertainty on the total uncertainty of the simulation output. Based on a model developed in a case study of carbon nanotubes in Switzerland, the modeling process, the representation and interpretation of the simulation results are described and approaches to sensitivity and uncertainty analyses are demonstrated. Finally, the overall approach is summarized and provided in the form of a set of modelling and evaluation rules for DPMFA studies.
Post-Phenomenology, Transduction, and Speculative Fabulations
Authors: Lally Róisín
Published: June 2021

This response briefly argues that post-phenomenology has always cut across the transcendental-empirical divide and is able to cultivate a deep respect for technologies in their otherness, without denying their relation to humanity. It does this by revisiting Don Ihde’s genetic phenomenological variations and tracing its relation to Gilbert Simondon’s ontogenesis. Having set up the historical nature of objects, the second part of this paper will take up Yoni Van Den Eede’s call for a more speculative approach.
Development of prediction model for osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture screening without using clinical risk factors, compared with FRAX and other previous models
Authors: Chanplakorn Pongsthorn , Lertudomphonwanit Thamrong , Daraphongsataporn Nuttorn , Sritara Chanika , Jaovisidha Suphaneewan , Sa-Ngasoongsong Paphon
Published: June 2021

Summary

This study developed a prediction model to assess the need for asymptomatic osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture (OVCF) screening in women without using clinical risk factors. Our results demonstrated that the combination of age, height loss, and femoral neck T-score can predict OVCF comparable to previous models, including FRAX.

Purpose

Osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture (OVCF) is a major fracture in osteoporosis patients. Early detection of OVCF can reduce the risk of subsequent fractures and death. Many existing diagnostic tools can screen for the risk of osteoporotic fracture but none aim to identify OVCF. The objective of this research is to study a predictive model for capturing OVCF and compare it with previous models.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted that included women aged ≥ 50 years who underwent dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and vertebral fracture screening between 2012 and 2019. The data included age, height, weight, history of height loss (HHL), and bone mass density (BMD). Receiver operating characteristic analysis and univariate and multivariate logistic regression were performed. The predictive OVCF model was formulated, and the result was compared to other models.

Results

A total of 617 women, a 179 of which had OVCFs, were eligible for analysis. Multivariate regression analysis showed age > 65, height loss > 1.5 cm, and femoral neck T-score < -1.7 as independent risk factors for OVCF. This model revealed comparable performance with FRAX. The model without BMD revealed superior performance to FRAX and other standard osteoporosis assessment models.

Conclusions

BMD and vertebral fracture screening should be eligible for individual women age > 65 years with an HHL more than 1.5 cm, regardless of BMD. Vertebral fracture assessment should be additionally conducted on these women with a femoral neck T-score less than -1.7.
l-arginine, asymmetric and symmetric dimethylarginine for early outcome prediction in unselected cardiac arrest victims: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Csiszar Beata , Marton Zsolt , Riba Janos , Csecsei Peter , Nagy Lajos , Toth Kalman , Halmosi Robert , Sandor Barbara , Kenyeres Peter , Molnar Tihamer
Published: June 2021

Early prediction of the mortality, neurological outcome is clinically essential after successful cardiopulmonary resuscitation. To find a prognostic marker among unselected cardiac arrest survivors, we aimed to evaluate the alterations of the l-arginine pathway molecules in the early post-resuscitation care. We prospectively enrolled adult patients after successfully resuscitated in- or out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. Blood samples were drawn within 6, 24, and 72 post-cardiac arrest hours to measure asymmetric and symmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA and SDMA) and l-arginine plasma concentrations. We recorded Sequential Organ Failure Assessment, Simplified Acute Physiology Score, and Cerebral Performance Category scores. Endpoints were 72 h, intensive care unit, and 30-day mortality. Among 54 enrolled patients [median age: 67 (61–78) years, 48% male], the initial ADMA levels were significantly elevated in those who died within 72 h [0.88 (0.64–0.97) µmol/L vs. 0.55 (0.45–0.69) µmol/L, p = 0.001]. Based on receiver operator characteristic analysis (AUC = 0.723; p = 0.005) of initial ADMA for poor neurological outcome, the best cutoff was determined as > 0.65 µmol/L (sensitivity = 66.7%; specificity = 81.5%), while for 72 h mortality (AUC = 0.789; p = 0.001) as > 0.81 µmol/L (sensitivity = 71.0%; specificity = 87.5%). Based on multivariate analysis, initial ADMA (OR = 1.8 per 0.1 µmol/L increment; p = 0.002) was an independent predictor for 72 h mortality. Increased initial ADMA predicts 72 h mortality and poor neurological outcome among unselected cardiac arrest victims.
Recent Advances in Single-Cell Profiling and Multispecific Therapeutics: Paving the Way for a New Era of Precision Medicine Targeting Cardiac Fibroblasts
Authors: Shi Sally Yu , Luo Xin , Yamawaki Tracy M. , Li Chi-Ming , Ason Brandon , Furtado Milena B.
Published: June 2021

Purpose of Review

Cardiac fibroblast activation contributes to fibrosis, maladaptive remodeling and heart failure progression. This review summarizes the latest findings on cardiac fibroblast activation dynamics derived from single-cell transcriptomic analyses and discusses how this information may aid the development of new multispecific medicines.

Recent Findings

Advances in single-cell gene expression technologies have led to the discovery of distinct fibroblast subsets, some of which are more prevalent in diseased tissue and exhibit temporal changes in response to injury. In parallel to the rapid development of single-cell platforms, the advent of multispecific therapeutics is beginning to transform the biopharmaceutical landscape, paving the way for the selective targeting of diseased fibroblast subpopulations.

Insights gained from single-cell technologies reveal critical cardiac fibroblast subsets that play a pathogenic role in the progression of heart failure. Combined with the development of multispecific therapeutic agents that have enabled access to previously “undruggable” targets, we are entering a new era of precision medicine.
Characteristics of hospitalized patients with depression and their relationship with the surrounding environment: A study in a class 3A hospital in Shanghai
Authors: Tao Tianhui , Shi Yishao , Yang Qianqian , Li Shanzhu , Guo Xiatong , Pei Xiaowen
Published: June 2021

The World Health Organization predicted that depression will become the second greatest disease burden after coronary heart disease by 2020. However, there are few quantitative studies on the spatial relationship between environmental factors and characteristics of patients with depression. In this paper, mathematical statistics, geographical information system and regression methods were used to conduct a quantitative analysis of the individual attributes of hospitalized patients with depression in a Class 3A hospital in Shanghai from 2013 to 2019 and to explore the relationship between individual attributes and circumjacent environmental factors. The results show that (1) the total number of patients with depression has increased in recent years, and the proportion of women was increased 2.5-fold compared with that of men. The risk was significantly increased in middle-aged and young adults aged 45–69 years compared with other age groups. The average hospitalization time was 20–30 days. The lower the level of education, the greater the risk of depression. (2) Within a certain spatial range, the closer to city parks and coffee shops, the lower the distribution density of depressed patients. (3) Medical insurance for patients with depression needs to implement a “people-oriented” differentiation policy. (4) Expanding urban public space, improving urban leisure and entertainment infrastructure, and introducing coffee shops into large-scale residential communities are three important strategies to prevent and treat depression.
Morphology, geometric morphometrics, and taxonomy in relict deciduous oaks woods in northern Italy
Authors: Proietti Elisa , Filesi Leonardo , Di Marzio Piera , Di Pietro Romeo , Masin Rizzieri , Conte Antonio Luca , Fortini Paola
Published: June 2021

The Euganean Hills are a well-known refugee site for thermophilous woody flora in northern Italy. Among the species recorded here, there is Quercus dalechampii. The Euganean Hills are the only northern Italy site where the occurrence of this oak species is considered. The aim of this paper was to verify the presence of Q. dalechampii in the study area and to select possible diagnostic morphological traits that are usable to distinguish it from Q. petraea and Q. pubescens. Forest stands dominated by Q. petraea, Q. pubescens, and the presumed Q. dalechampii were sampled using the phytosociological approach to highlight their ecological features. Leaf and fruit material from 104 oak individuals was analysed from a macro-morphological and micro-morphological point of view. Leaf shape was also analysed using the geometric morphometric approach. All multivariate analysis procedures applied on the matrices of leaf and fruit traits highlighted two main clusters of morphological diversity. One was restricted to Q. pubescens individuals, and the other one was a mix of Q. petraea and presumed Q. dalechampii individuals. According to the twig and leaf trichome traits, all presumed Q. dalechampii individuals were classified as belonging to the Q. petraea collective group. Morphological differences between Q. petraea and presumed Q. dalechampii were considered not significant. In conclusion, the occurrence of a third oak species, in addition to Q. petraea and Q. pubescens, was not confirmed for the study area by the results of this paper.

Graphic abstract
The role of ethics in science: a systematic literature review from the first wave of COVID-19
Authors: Maccaro Alessia , Piaggio Davide , Pagliara Silvio , Pecchia Leandro
Published: June 2021

This paper proposes a systematic literature review on ethics and CoviD-19, aiming to understand the impact and the perception of the pandemic during the first wave (January-June 2020) and the consequences one year later.
PubMed was systematically searched up May 2020 to identify studies that took into consideration various ethical issues that have been arising from the Covid-19 outbreak. The eligibility of the papers was determined by two authors, who screened the results mediated by a third author. In order to facilitate the screening, the titles were divided into five sub-thematic macro-areas, namely allocation, policy, specialist, clinical trials, and technology and, when possible, per geographical area. Specifically, a posteriori, we decided to focus on the papers referring to policies and technology, as they highlighted ethical issues that are not overused and worthy of particular attention.
Thus, 38 studies out of 233 met our inclusion criteria and were fully analysed. Accordingly, this review touches on themes such as fairness, equity, transparency of information, the duty of care, racial disparities, the marginalisation of the poor, and privacy and ethical concerns.
Overall, it was found that despite the increased awareness of interdisciplinarity and the essential reference to ethics, many scientific articles use it with little competence, considering it only a "humanitarian" enrichment. In fact, as we understand, reflecting a year after the outbreak of the pandemic, although Covid-19 is leading scientists to increasingly recognise the importance of ethical issues, there is still a lot of confusion that could be helped by establishing international guidelines to act as a moral compass in times of crisis.
A theory of scaling for community-based fisheries management
Authors: Steenbergen Dirk J. , Song Andrew M. , Andrew Neil
Published: June 2021

Community-based approaches to fisheries management has emerged as a mainstream strategy to govern dispersed, diverse and dynamic small scale fisheries. However, amplifying local community led sustainability outcomes remains an enduring challenge. We seek to fill a theoretical gap in the conceptualization of ‘scaling up community-based fisheries management’. We draw on literature of agriculture innovations to provide a framework that takes into account process-driven and structural change occurring across multiple levels of governance, as well as different phases of scaling. We hypothesize that successful scaling requires engagement with all aspects of a governing regime, coalescing a range of actors, and therefore, is an enterprise that is larger than its parts. To demonstrate where the framework offers value, we illustrate the development of community-based fisheries management in Vanuatu according to the framework’s main scaling dimensions.
Application of Pulsed Rhythmic Drug Administration to Ovulation Induction Therapy in PCOS Patients with Clomiphene-Resistance: a Retrospective Research
Authors: Zhang Xinyue , Zheng Aiyan , Yang Jihong , Feng Ting , Zhang Yan , Hao Yingying , Li Suying , Qian Yun
Published: June 2021

There is currently a dispute over the choice of ovulation induction treatment for infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The objective of this study is to compare the therapeutic effect of pulsed rhythmic administration protocol (PRAP) with conventional letrozole + human menopausal gonadotropin (HMG) in patients with clomiphene-resistance polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). A retrospective analysis of 821 intrauterine insemination (IUI) cycles between January 2015 and January 2020 was performed. Of these, 483 cycles were treated with a pulsed rhythmic administration protocol (PRAP), and 338 cycles were treated with conventional letrozole + HMG protocol (LHP). The therapeutic effect of the two protocols has been compared. The pregnancy rate was 18.07% in the LHP and 27.07% in the PRAP. The ongoing pregnancy rate in LHP was 14.46% and in PRAP was 22.73%. The research suggests that PRAP is more effective than LHP and could be an adequate ovulation induction strategy for the IUI cycle of patients with clomiphene-resistance PCOS.
Imaging features of Lipoblastoma
Authors: Ambusaidi Farida Mohsin , Al-Mammari Latifa , Al-Brashdi Yahya , Al-Shamsi Ruqaiya Mubarak
Published: June 2021

Lipoblastoma is a rare benign soft tissue tumor found in infants and young children. It presents as an enlarging mass commonly observed in extremities, trunk, head and neck regions. Imaging features include a hyper-echoic mass on ultrasound, heterogonous fat density lesion on CT scan with enhancing septations and no calcification, and high T1 signal mass that drops the signal intensity on fat suppression MRI images. Total excision of such lesion is the treatment of choice, and follow-up is recommended to rule out recurrence.
Wine Ratings: Seeking a Consensus among Tasters via Normalization, Approval, and Aggregation
Authors: Gergaud Olivier , Ginsburgh Victor , Moreno-Ternero Juan D.
Published: June 2021

The modern era of wine journalism has provided abundant information about wines and widespread use of numerical rating systems. A tiny difference, especially at the top of the distribution of ratings, may have striking consequences on wine sales and investment returns. This article provides a general framework to obtain a consensus among tasters’ opinions (reflected as numerical wine ratings) via three subsequent stages: normalization, approval, and aggregation. It is inspired by contributions in political science, social choice, game theory, and operations research. We apply it to the Judgment of Paris as well as to rank 2018 en-primeur Bordeaux wines, rated by five international experts. (JEL Classifications: C18, L15, L66)
COMMUTATOR EQUATIONS IN FINITE GROUPS
Authors: IRIMOTO KANTO , TORRES-GIESE ENRIQUE
Published: June 2021

The problem of finding the number of ordered commuting tuples of elements in a finite group is equivalent to finding the size of the solution set of the system of equations determined by the commutator relations that impose commutativity among any pair of elements from an ordered tuple. We consider this type of systems for the case of ordered triples and express the size of the solution set in terms of the irreducible characters of the group. The obtained formulas are natural extensions of Frobenius’ character formula that calculates the number of ways a group element is a commutator of an ordered pair of elements in a finite group. We discuss how our formulas can be used to study the probability distributions afforded by these systems of equations, and we show explicit calculations for dihedral groups.
Preferences, vote choice, and the politics of social investment: Addressing the puzzle of unequal benefits of childcare provision
Authors: NEIMANNS ERIK
Published: June 2021

Research on the politics of social investment finds public opinion to be highly supportive of expansive reforms and expects this support to matter for the politics of expanding social investment. Expanding social investment, it is argued, should be particularly attractive to left-wing voters and parties because of the egalitarian potential of such policies. However, few studies have examined to what extent individual preferences concerning social investment really matter politically. In this paper, I address this research gap for the crucial policy field of childcare by examining how individual-level preferences for expanding childcare provision translate into voting behavior. Based on original survey data from eight European countries, I find that preferences to expand public childcare spending indeed translate into electoral support for the left. However, this link from preferences to votes turns out to be socially biased. Childcare preferences are much more decisive for voting the further up individuals are in the income distribution. This imperfect transmission from preferences to voting behavior implies that political parties could have incentives to target the benefits of childcare reforms to their more affluent voters. My findings help to explain why governments frequently fail to reduce social inequality of access to seemingly egalitarian childcare provision.
Forts, Vici and Related Extramural Activity in Wales and the Marches: Recent Discoveries at the Roman Fort of Pen y Gaer (Powys) and their Wider Implications
Authors: Burnham Barry C. , Davies Jeffrey L.
Published: June 2021

Recent aerial photographs of Pen y Gaer have revealed significant new details about the fort and its extramural adjuncts. These provide a springboard for examining the wider implications for extramural activity outside other forts across Wales and the Marches, and for exploring the function and chronology of potentially official buildings within the wider landscape of communications and control. Such an approach invites comparison with other frontier regions.
Association between Mode of Transportation and Survival in Adult Trauma Patients with Blunt Injuries: Matched Cohort Study between Police and Ground Ambulance Transport
Authors: Sakr Fouad A. , Bachir Rana H. , El Sayed Mazen J.
Published: June 2021

Introduction:

Early police transport (PT) of penetrating trauma patients has the potential to improve survival rates for trauma patients. There are no well-established guidelines for the transport of blunt trauma patients by PT currently.

Study Objective:

This study examines the association between the survival rate of blunt trauma patients and the transport modality (police versus ground ambulance).

Methods:

A retrospective, matched cohort study was conducted using the National Trauma Data Bank (NTDB). All blunt trauma patients transported by police to trauma centers were identified and matched (one-to-four) to patients transported by ground Emergency Medical Services (EMS) for analysis. Descriptive analysis was carried out. This was followed by comparing all patients’ characteristics and their survival rates in terms of the mode of transportation.

Results:

Out of the 2,469 patients with blunt injuries, EMS transported 1,846 patients and police transported 623 patients. Most patients were 16-64 years of age (86.2%) with a male predominance (82.5%). Fall (38.4%) was the most common mechanism of injury with majority of injuries involving the head and neck body part (64.8%). Fractures were the most common nature of injury (62.1%). The overall survival rate of adult blunt trauma patients was similar for both methods of transportation (99.2%; P = 1.000).

Conclusion:

In this study, adult blunt trauma patients transported by police had similar outcomes to those transported by EMS. As such, PT in trauma should be encouraged and protocolized to improve resource utilization and outcomes further.