bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling a Computer Program for Evaluating the Construction Consulting Bids According to the Iraqi Standard Bidding Documents
Authors: Ramadhan Noor A. , Rasheed Sawsan M.
Published: November 2021

The professional service procurement's plan and process have a major effect on the construction project's success. In the projects of the public sector, the stress between cost and quality is constant. Public authorities are responsible for maximizing value for money while also protecting the quality and performance of the construction project they develop. Issuing the standard bidding documents for consultancy service (SBDCS) was one of many procedures taken by the Iraqi Government represented by the Ministry of Planning to improve the procurement system in Iraq. The SBDCS were designed to acquire high professional services, achieve the economy and efficiency, and give all qualified consultants opportunities to provide service for the Government financed construction projects. In reviewing the reality of SBDCS's application, the inability of the Government's contracting bodies to achieve the desired documents' objectives was observed. Six projects that applied the SBDCS were chosen as case studies in this research. The lack of adequate qualification of the staff assigned to prepare the bidding document was the main reason that hindered the correct application, which led to the delay in the consultants' procurement and contracting process. An evaluation computer program was modeled for the selection of consultants based on the criteria of Iraqi standard bidding documents. The proposed program aims to facilitate the process of consultant selection according to SBDCS.
Experimental Investigation on the Structural Behavior of Double Channel Castellated Steel Beams
Authors: Khaleel Ahmed I. , AL-Shamaa Mushriq F. K.
Published: November 2021

The main idea of castellated steel beams is to reduce their weight by creating void space (web holes) in the main beam body. This structure tends to exhibit superior properties such as advanced strength, lightweight, and cost-saving compared to the amount of steel used compared with reference beam without web holes. This study is devoted to investigating the structural behavior of double-channel cast steel beams. In this project, two pieces of a rolled hot steel channel were connected to form a new section used in the testing program. Five beams of different sections were manufactured and tested using the same length and all testing parameters conditions with only a difference in the number of openings and distance (e) between each hole to study the behavior of section to different bearing loads and deformation. Two loading points were placed on a third of the length of the castellated steel beam. This study showed that when the web holes are few, the total bearing strength decreases. As the number of web holes increased to a specific limit, the bearing strength continued to rise, and if openings exceeded a specific limit, the bearing force decreased. The rate of increase to the bearing force was found between 17.7-40.0%. Lastly, as per beam deformation, the deformation value decreased as the number of openings increased, which was taken at the maximum load of the reference beam.
Simulation of Partial Interaction for Composite Deck of “Al-SABTEA Bridge” Taking The Influence of Static Vehicle loads
Authors: Hmood Qassim Yehya , Abbas Ali Laftah
Published: November 2021

The composite bridge has consisted of different materials such as the girder to be steel or precast that connected with deck concrete slab using shear connectors for working as one. In the present study ALSABTEA bridge rehabilitation of the space of the bridge using the composite steel girder existing composite bridge constructed in Diyala-Iraq in 1981 that designed and constructed to behave as full interaction. Representation of composite steel bridge using finite element approach with different parameters to assess the doing of the composite bridge under the effects of static loading using actual dimensions and mechanical properties. The representation of channel shear connectors through elements of COMBIN39 provided simple and powerful modeling of the connectors in comparison with using elements of the 3D solid types. Examining the push-out test and comparing results with the model established by ANSYS proved the proposed numerical model could represent the shear connector's behavior. The difference is small (2.5% to 3.7%) between the model by using the representation shear connector as solid element and combined 39 also, the difference in the results of displacement is small (5%) between the experimental test and model established by ANSYS. The effect has been studied included. Partial and full interaction of Al-SABTEA Bridge under the effects of Static loadings applied at bridge based on Iraqi specification where the final assessment the results deflection within permissible limits according to all models.
Application of spaced system of laser interferometers and tiltmeters for sharing the earthquakes precursory events
Authors: Dubrov Mstislav , Volkov Victor , Larionov Igor , Mrlina Jan , Polak Vaclav , Aleksandrov Dmitriy
Published: November 2021

Our previous investigations evidently show that synchronous observation of global atmosphere and lithosphere disturbances by means of 130-1,600 km spatially distributed precise instruments is the effective method of detecting precursors of large seismic events and other dangerous natural phenomena. This study expands the spatial range of our search up to 7,000-8,000 km and allows regional and global disturbances to be shared.
Club der Gesundheitswirtschaft: Uniklinik Halle gewinnt cdgw-Zukunftspreis 2021
Authors: Kucera Martin
Published: November 2021

Das Projekt „Digital basiertes individuelles Pharmakotherapie-Management (IPM)“ des Universitätsklinikums Halle hat sich der effektiven Versorgungsoptimierung bei risikoreicher Polypharmazie verschrieben. Dafür hat es den Zukunftspreis des Clubs der Gesundheitswirtschaft (cdgw) erhalten.
Künstliche Intelligenz: Verschwiegene Algorithmen
Authors: Lang Michael
Published: November 2021

Auf künstliche Intelligenz spezialisierte Forscher der Technischen Universität München haben eine neue Technik entwickelt, mit der sie Algorithmen unter Einhaltung der Privatsphäre trainieren können. Zum Einsatz kam das neue Verfahren bei einem Algorithmus, der Pneumonien auf den Röntgenbildern von Kindern erkennen kann.
Technologische Neuerungen in der Radiologie: Bessere Bilder trotz geringerer Strahlendosis
Authors: Hohnstein Aileen
Published: November 2021

In der modernen Medizin sind bildgebende Verfahren unverzichtbar. Doch welche Trends gibt es in der Radiologie neben künstlicher Intelligenz? In der Computertomografie soll die Strahlenbelastung für Patientinnen und Patienten weiter reduziert werden und eine neue Detektortechnologie kommt noch in diesem Jahr auf den Markt.
Optische Biosensoren: Neues Analyseverfahren ermöglicht schnellere Therapieentscheidungen
Authors: Steglich Patrick
Published: November 2021

Wissenschaftler des Leibniz-Instituts für innovative Mikroelektronik (IHP) in Frankfurt (Oder) haben Mikro chip-basierte optische Biosensoren entwickelt, die nicht nur eine hohe Empfindlichkeit aufweisen, sondern auch eine Miniaturisierung und eine kostengünstige Massenfertigung ermöglichen.
Positionspapier der DIVI: „Angehörigenbesuche sind ein Grundrecht“
Authors: Kohrs Jens
Published: November 2021

In der Coronapandemie haben Krankenhäuser bundesweit monatelang dichtgemacht und Besuche strikt untersagt. Das dürfe so nicht wieder geschehen, mahnen zwei Sektionen der Deutschen Interdisziplinären Vereinigung für Intensiv und Notfallmedizin (DIVI). Ein Positionspapier soll Kliniken helfen, patienten und angehörigenfreundliche Besuchskonzepte zu entwickeln.
Wahlleistungen: „Silver Generation“ bietet Chance für Zusatzeinnahmen
Authors: Weitzel Christoph
Published: November 2021

Die demografische Entwicklung prägt immer stärker den Gesundheitsmarkt. Für die „Silver Generation“, also die Altersgruppe 50+, entwickelt sich dabei die Frage der Lebensqualität zum obersten Ziel. Krankenhäuser sollten reagieren und die Chance nutzen, sich mit einem attraktiven Angebot für Privatpatienten dauerhaft neue Einnahmen zu erschließen.
ÖVKT-Tagung in Pörtschach: Neu(es) denken
Authors: Thalmayr Maria
Published: November 2021

„Um echten Fortschritt zu erzielen, müssen Technologien für das Gesundheitswesen, ja auch das Krankenhaus an sich, immer wieder neu gedacht werden. Gleichzeitig dürfen wir uns nicht von Technologien überrumpeln lassen, die noch nicht ausgereift sind“, forderte Martin Krammer in seiner Eröffnungsrede zur diesjährigen ÖVKT-Tagung in Pörtschach.
Physiological parameters related to oocyte nuclear differentiation for the improvement of IVM/IVF outcomes in women and cattle
Authors: Buratini Jose , Soares Ana Caroline Silva , Barros Rodrigo Garcia , Dellaqua Thaisy Tino , Lodde Valentina , Franciosi Federica , Dal Canto Mariabeatrice , Renzini Mario Mignini , Luciano Alberto Maria
Published: November 2021

In vitro maturation (IVM) has been applied in numerous different contexts and strategies in humans and animals, but in both cases it represents a challenge still far from being overcome. Despite the large dataset produced over the last two decades on the mechanisms that govern antral follicular development and oocyte metabolism and differentiation, IVM outcomes are still unsatisfactory. This review specifically focuses on data concerning the potential consequences of using supraphysiological levels of FSH during IVM, as well as on the regulation of oocyte chromatin dynamics and its utility as a potential marker of oocyte developmental competence. Taken together, the data revisited herein indicate that a significant improvement in IVM efficacy may be provided by the integration of pre-OPU patient-specific protocols preparing the oocyte population for IVM and more physiological culture systems mimicking more precisely the follicular environment that would be experienced by the recovered oocytes until completion of metaphase II.
Sexual function in reproductive-aged women following radiotherapy: a cross sectional study
Authors: Lai Shimona , Rozen Genia , Polyakov Alex
Published: November 2021

Background While female sexual dysfunction post-radiation therapy has been previously described, much of the literature is focused on older, often postmenopausal, women; and neglects the experiences of younger populations. Our study aims to describe the changes in sexual functioning following radiotherapy among women of a reproductive age. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted on reproductive-aged women post-radiation therapy. Information on sexual frequency, pleasure, discomfort and habit was collected and compared to responses from healthy women of comparable ages. Results Reproductive-aged women post-radiotherapy experienced decreased pleasure, more discomfort and had less sexual activity than healthy controls. However, sexual habit was comparable. Conclusions Our findings illustrated that most domains of sexual function are negatively affected in our study population. Understanding the sexual sequelae of radiation therapy may help guide clinicians in counselling their patients and planning their future needs.
How accurate is presumptive
Authors: Jacups Susan P. , Potter Caroline , Yarwood Trent , Doyle-Adams Simon , Russell Darren
Published: November 2021

Background Chlamydia trachomatis (chlamydia) is highly prevalent and is an important sexually transmitted infection as it can lead to increased risk of HIV seroconversion; and if left untreated, can cause infertility in women. Clinical guidelines recommend treating chlamydia presumptively when presenting symptomatically; however, clinicians are now questioning this due to increasing prevalence of antimicrobial resistance. Methods To determine the accuracy of presumptive chlamydia treatment practices at a walk-in sexual health service in regional Australia, we audited all same-day screen and treat presentations prescribed azithromycin over a 6-month period in 2018. Results A total of 325 cases were included in the analysis. Over half (54%) the presentations returned negative pathology for all pathogens investigated. One quarter (25%) of presentations were positive for chlamydia, and (4%) reported a dual infection. A further one fifth (20%) were negative for chlamydia but positive for another pathogen. More symptomatic males than females returned positive pathology for chlamydia (8% vs 4%). Conclusions While presumptive treatment is recommended in the current guidelines, our findings indicate this resulted in over-treatment. Considering the increasing resistance patterns for Mycoplasma genitalium, which include azithromycin, presumptive treatments need to balance immediate client care needs against long-term community antimicrobial resistance outcomes. This internal audit provided a feedback mechanism to the walk-in sexual service, enabling modification of practices to provide more precise, individual clinical care within the bounds of current STI guidelines, while balancing wider the objectives of antimicrobial stewardship.
Influence of
Authors: Alen’kina Svetlana A. , Kupryashina Maria A.
Published: November 2021

Azospirillum spp. are plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria. The surface lectins of A. brasilense strain Sp7 and A. baldaniorum strain Sp245 can attach to specific carbohydrates, and ensure the binding of the bacteria to the root surface. We investigated possible effects of A. brasilense Sp7 and A. baldaniorum Sp245 lectins on the activities of antioxidant enzymes and on the content of low-molecular-weight antioxidants in the roots of 4-day-old wheat seedlings. The roots were exposed to a number of simulated abiotic stresses: hypothermic, hyperthermic, drought, and salinity stresses. Under all stresses, both lectins increased peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activities and decreased catalase activity. The lectins differed in the intensity of induction of changes in the amounts of the low-molecular-weight antioxidants in wheat roots. They also differed in functional activity owing to their different carbohydrate specificities and structures. The data suggest broader possibilities of lectins in terms of the effect on the metabolism of host plants, and they permit adjustments to be made to the current understanding of the mechanisms that control the associative interactions between plants and bacteria.
Increased air temperature during repeated‐sprint training in hypoxia amplifies changes in muscle oxygenation without decreasing cycling performance
Authors: Dennis Myles C. , Goods Paul S.R. , Binnie Martyn J. , Girard Olivier , Wallman Karen E. , Dawson Brian , Billaut Francois , Peeling Peter
Published: November 2021

The present study aims to investigate the acute performance and physiological responses, with specific reference to muscle oxygenation, to ambient air temperature manipulation during repeated‐sprint training in hypoxia (RSH). Thirteen male team‐sport players completed one familiarisation and three experimental sessions at a simulated altitude of ∼3000 m (FIO2 0.144). Air temperatures utilised across the three experimental sessions were: 20°C, 35°C and 40°C (all 50% relative humidity). Participants performed 3 × 5 × 10‐s maximal cycle sprints, with 20‐s passive recovery between sprints, and 5 min active recovery between sets. There were no differences between conditions for cycling peak power, mean power, and total work (p>0.05). Peak core temperature (Tc) was not different between conditions (38.11 ± 0.36°C). Vastus lateralis muscle deoxygenation during exercise and reoxygenation during recovery was of greater magnitude in 35°C and 40°C than 20°C (p<0.001 for all). There was no condition × time interaction for Tc, skin temperature, pulse oxygen saturation, heart rate, rating of perceived exertion and thermal sensation (P>0.05). Exercise‐induced increases in blood lactate concentration were higher in 35°C and 40°C than 20°C (p=0.010 and p=0.001, respectively). Integrating ambient temperatures up to 40°C into a typical RSH session had no detrimental effect on performance. Additionally, the augmented muscle oxygenation changes experienced during exercise and recovery in temperatures ≥35°C may indicate that the potency of RSH training is increased with additional heat. However, alterations to the training session may be required to generate a sufficient rise in Tc for heat training purposes.

Highlights

Heat exposure (35‐40°C) did not affect mechanical performance during a typical RSH session. This indicates hot ambient temperature can be implemented during RSH, without negative consequence to training output.

Hotter ambient conditions (35‐40°C) likely result in greater muscle oxygenation changes during both exercise and recovery compared to temperate conditions.

Although hotter sessions were perceived as more difficult and more thermally challenging, they did not further elevate Tc beyond that of temperate conditions. Accordingly, if intended to be used for heat acclimation purposes, alterations to the session may be required to increase heat load.
Comparison of Landmark-guided, Nerve Stimulation–guided, and Ultrasound-guided Techniques for Pediatric Caudal Epidural Anesthesia
Authors: Ponde Vrushali , Singh Neha , Nair Abhijit , Ongaigui Corinna J. , Nagdev Tripti
Published: November 2021

Objectives:

Traditionally, caudal epidurals are performed by a landmark-guided approach using the loss of resistance technique. Improvisations to increase the success rate can be attained by implementing modalities, namely neurostimulation and ultrasound, but there is a paucity of literature comparing these 3 approaches. Here, we compare the 3 techniques in terms of the success rate.

Materials and Methods:

The primary outcome of this study was to compare the success rate of the 3 techniques, and the secondary outcome was the blood or cerebrospinal fluid aspiration during the procedure. It was a prospective, randomized, open-label parallel-group study. Three hundred children aged 1 to 5 years scheduled for circumcision, hypospadias repair, and minor lower extremity surgeries were enrolled after taking written informed consent from the parents.

Results:

Demographic profiles were comparable in terms of age, weight, sex distribution, and types of surgeries. Success rates in landmark-guided, neurostimulation-guided, and ultrasound-guided were 97%, 97%, and 98%, respectively which was comparable (P=0.879). There was no significant difference in the incidence of blood or cerebrospinal fluid aspiration.

Discussion:

We found a similar success rate of the caudal epidural block by using landmark-guided, nerve stimulation–guided, or ultrasound-guided techniques in children aged 1 to 5 years with normal anatomy.
Development and validation of a nomogram for predicting survival of breast cancer patients with ipsilateral supraclavicular lymph node metastasis
Authors: Lyu Min-Hao , Ma You-Zhao , Tian Pei-Qi , Guo Hui-Hui , Wang Chao , Liu Zhen-Zhen , Chen Xiu-Chun
Published: November 2021

Background:

Breast cancer patients with ipsilateral supraclavicular lymph node metastasis (ISLNM) but without distant metastasis are considered to have a poor prognosis. This study aimed to develop a nomogram to predict the overall survival (OS) of breast cancer patients with ISLNM but without distant metastasis.

Methods:

Medical records of breast cancer patients who received surgical treatment at the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Jiyuan People's Hospital and Huaxian People's Hospital between December 21, 2012 and June 30, 2020 were reviewed retrospectively. Overall, 345 patients with pathologically confirmed ISLNM and without evidence of distant metastasis were identified. They were further randomized 2:1 and divided into training (n = 231) and validation (n = 114) cohorts. A nomogram to predict the probability of OS was constructed based on clinicopathologic variables identified by the univariable and multivariable analyses. The predictive accuracy and discriminative ability were measured by calibration plots, concordance index (C-index), and risk group stratification.

Results:

Univariable analysis showed that estrogen receptor-positive (ER+), progesterone receptor-positive (PR+), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive (HER2+) with Herceptin treatment, and a low axillary lymph node ratio (ALNR) were prognostic factors for better OS. PR+, HER2+ with Herceptin treatment, and a low ALNR remained independent prognostic factors for better OS on multivariable analysis. These variables were incorporated into a nomogram to predict the 1-, 3-, and 5-year OS of breast cancer patients with ISLNM. The C-indexes of the nomogram were 0.737 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.660–0.813) and 0.759 (95% CI: 0.636–0.881) for the training and the validation cohorts, respectively. The calibration plots presented excellent agreement between the nomogram prediction and actual observation for 3 and 5 years, but not 1 year, OS in both the cohorts. The nomogram was also able to stratify patients into different risk groups.

Conclusions:

In this study, we established and validated a novel nomogram for predicting survival of patients with ISLNM. This nomogram may, to some extent, allow clinicians to more accurately estimate prognosis and to make personalized therapeutic decisions for individual patients with ISLNM.
Ball of Death
Authors: Naveen Alagarasan , Sahu Manas Ranjan , Maharik Sasank Shekhar , Mohanty Manoj Kumar , Padhi Kimi Soumya
Published: November 2021

Crude bombs are country-made explosive weapons, usually prepared from locally available materials such as firecrackers or explosives used in mines. These are generally concealed inside the fruits, such as jackfruit, pineapple, and watermelon, to kill wild boars or other animals by poachers in India. Occasionally, crude bombs are remodeled resembling fruit or a ball and placed on the fields, where animals usually raid their crops. Such crude bombs may result in accidental explosions and contribute to the death of unintended targets, including humans. Despite these sporadic incidents reported in media, scientific data are lacking. Here, we report a young child who sustained injuries after an accidental explosion of such a crude bomb. It exploded when the child apparently mistook it for a ball and grasped it firmly while playing with his brother. This case is the first to report the accidental death of a child after the crude bomb's fatal explosion to the best of our knowledge. This report also briefly overviews the emerging menace of crude bombs in India.
Using CT Perfusion in the Interictal State
Authors: Sheikh Irfan S. , Park Sihyeong , Ali Imran
Published: November 2021

Periodic discharges seen in patients undergoing continuous EEG pose a challenge to physicians in falling into the interictal–ictal continuum and need for appropriate diagnostic and management approach. The authors herein present an 83-year-old male patient with an acute subdural hematoma who developed intermittent right upper and lower extremity weakness with change in mental status post craniotomy and hematoma evacuation. The patient was intubated and sedated with midazolam and propofol and placed on anti-seizure medications to control seizures. He was placed on continuous EEG monitoring and later developed lateralized periodic discharges. To guide treatment, a computed tomography perfusion study of the brain was performed. The results were consistent with an ictal phenomenon because of the presence of left hemispheric hyperemia. This increased cerebral blood volume and blood flow was used as a diagnostic tool to warrant more aggressive antiepileptic regimen. The patient was then started on an additional anti-seizure medication and dosages were further optimized. This led to an improvement in the patient's EEG and clinical state. There are numerous studies that show lateralized periodic discharges are seen as examples of subclinical status epilepticus and demonstrate hypermetabolism and hyperemia on positron emission tomography and single-photon emission computed tomography scans. When such imaging modalities are unavailable, cortical hyperperfusion on a computed tomography perfusion study might be a valid predictor of ongoing, subclinical, ictal activity and may be used as a complementary diagnostic tool to EEG to guide treatment.
Effect of Maximum Repetition of Pelvic Floor Stabilization Exercise in Stress Urinary Incontinence
Authors: Khatun Iren , Hossain Mohammad Anwar , Hossain K M Amran , Urme Nadia Afrin
Published: November 2021

Background

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in females is a common gynecological issue that impedes lifestyle. Exercise had a significant effect; however, studies did not determine the exercise frequency and intensity for pelvic floor stabilization in stress urinary incontinence.

Aim

The aim of the study is to determine if maximum repetition of pelvic stabilization exercise impacts the management of stress urinary incontinence in females.

Methodology

One arm quasi-experimental study design was used. 40 patients having SUI and associated musculoskeletal complaints were recruited from the outpatient unit of Physiotherapy department of the Centre for the Rehabilitation of the Paralysed (CRP), Bangladesh. The study was conducted over 4weeks. Outcome measurement was included pelvic floor and abdominal muscle strength, endurance, and incontinence measurement.

Result

Pelvic floor muscle and abdominal strength, and endurance had a positive and significant result in maximum repetition (P .001). Pelvic floor strength has been significantly improvement in week 2 (P .001), and week 3 (P .01). Interference in activities (P .003), and ICIQ total (P .001) had improvement but majority of the improvement was noted in weeks 2-3. There was a significant improvement in the frequency of urine leakage in the first week (P .001), and week 3 (P .005) and week 4 (P .001).

Conclusion

Pelvic floor exercise with increasing repetition is an effective approach to improve stress urinary incontinence in females. The study had a significant impact on incontinence frequency, amount, and associated quality of life for women with stress urinary incontinence with pelvic floor exercise with maximum repetition.
LMPred: Predicting Antimicrobial Peptides Using Pre-Trained Language Models and Deep Learning
Authors: Dee William
Published: November 2021

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are increasingly being used in the development of new therapeutic drugs, in areas such as cancer therapy and hypertension. Additionally, they are seen as an alternative to antibiotics due to the increasing occurrence of bacterial resistance. Wet-laboratory experimental identification, however, is both time consuming and costly, so in-silico models are now commonly used in order to screen new AMP candidates. This paper proposes a novel approach of creating model inputs; using pre-trained language models to produce contextualized embeddings representing the amino acids within each peptide sequence, before a convolutional neural network is then trained as the classifier. The optimal model was validated on two datasets, being one previously used in AMP prediction research, and an independent dataset, created by this paper. Predictive accuracies of 93.33% and 88.26% were achieved respectively, outperforming all previous state-of-the-art classification models.
Sleep promoting neurons remodel their response properties to calibrate sleep drive with environmental demands.
Authors: Dissel Stephane , Klose Markus K , van Swinderen Bruno , Cao Lijuan , Shaw Paul J
Published: November 2021

Falling asleep at the wrong time can place an individual at risk of immediate physical harm. However, not sleeping degrades cognition and adaptive behavior. To understand how animals match sleep need with environmental demands, we used live-brain imaging to examine the physiological response properties of the Drosophila sleep homeostat (dFB) following interventions that modify sleep (sleep deprivation, starvation, time-restricted feeding, memory consolidation). We report that dFB neurons can distinguish between different types of waking and can change their physiological response-properties accordingly. That is, dFB neurons are not simply passive components of a hard-wired circuit. Rather, the dFB neurons themselves can determine their response to the activity from upstream circuits. Finally, we show that the dFB appears to contain a memory trace of prior exposure to metabolic challenges induced by starvation or time-restricted feeding. Together these data highlight that the sleep homeostat is plastic and suggests an underlying mechanism.
On the Effect of Intralocus Recombination on Triplet-Based Species Tree Estimation
Authors: Hill Max , Roch Sebastien
Published: November 2021

We consider species tree estimation from multiple loci subject to intralocus recombination. We focus onR*, a summary coalescent-based methods using rooted triplets. We demonstrate analytically that intralocus recombination gives rise to an inconsistency zone, in which correct inference is not assured even in the limit of infinite amount of data. In addition, we validate and characterize this inconsistency zone through a simulation study that suggests that differential rates of recombination between closely related taxa can amplify the effect of incomplete lineage sorting and contribute to inconsistency.
Modelling the coupling of the M-clock and C-clock in lymphatic muscle cells
Authors: Hancock E.J. , Zawieja S.D. , Macaskill C. , Davis M.J. , Bertram C.D.
Published: November 2021

Lymphoedema develops due to chronic dysfunction of the lymphatic vascular system which results in fluid accumulation between cells. The condition is commonly acquired secondary to diseases such as cancer or the therapies associated with it. The primary driving force for fluid return through the lymphatic vasculature is provided by contractions of the muscularized lymphatic collecting vessels, driven by electrical oscillations. However, there is an incomplete understanding of the molecular and bioelectric mechanisms involved in lymphatic muscle cell excitation, hampering the development and use of pharmacological therapies. Modelling in silico has contributed greatly to understanding the contributions of specific ion channels to the cardiac action potential, but modelling of these processes in lymphatic muscle remains limited. Here, we propose a model of oscillations in the membrane voltage (M-clock) and intracellular calcium concentrations (C-clock) of lymphatic muscle cells. We modify a model by Imtiaz and colleagues to enable the M-clock to drive the C-clock oscillations. This approach differs from typical models of calcium oscillators in lymphatic and related cell types, but is required to fit recent experimental data. We include an additional voltage dependence in the gating variable control for the L-type calcium channel, enabling the M-clock to oscillate independently of the C-clock. We use phase-plane analysis to show that these M-clock oscillations are qualitatively similar to those of a generalised FitzHugh-Nagumo model. We also provide phase plane analysis to understand the interaction of the M-clock and C-clock oscillations. The model and methods have the potential to help determine mechanisms and find targets for pharmacological treatment of lymphoedema.
The role of robots in the green economy
Authors: Bogue Robert
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This aims to illustrate the role robotic technology is playing in the key sectors of the green economy.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a short introduction, this paper discusses existing and potential robotic applications in three key sectors of green economy: renewable energy, recycling and waste management and sustainable transport. This is followed by a discussion and concluding comments.

Findings

Robots are playing critical and growing roles in each of the three sectors of the green economy considered. Uses are expanding in the production of renewable energy systems and in their inspection and maintenance. Advances in AI and machine vision have enabled robotic mixed waste sorting which plays a vital role in recycling, and the robotic disassembly of electronic products is also gaining pace. Robots are being used extensively in the sustainable transport sector in the manufacture of electric vehicles and also in the production and recycling of electric vehicle batteries. Emerging applications include robotic vehicle recharging and battery swapping.

Originality/value

This provides an insight into the many ways in which robots are contributing to key sectors of the green economy.
Pain, suffering, and jury awards: A study of the cost of wrongful convictions
Authors: Cohen Mark A.
Published: November 2021

Research summary

This paper estimates the cost of wrongful convictions based on analysis of jury awards and settlements for individuals who were wrongfully convicted and incarcerated for crimes they did not commit. Key variables of interest are number of days spent in prison, days on probation, and demographics of wrongfully convicted and their families. The average “cost” of a wrongful conviction is estimated to be $6.1 million, or $1334 per day of incarceration, while the marginal cost decreases over time: initial incarceration is valued at over $50,000 for the first day; year one is valued at $1.5 million ($4000/day), while the marginal cost of the 10th year is estimated to be approximately $350,000 ($950/day).

Policy implications

State mandated compensation for wrongfully convicted individuals who oftentimes spend years in prison for crimes they did not commit is highly variable and in many cases bears little relationship to either the monetary or nonmonetary harms endured. In addition to providing benchmarks for more appropriate compensation, these estimates provide a foundation for future benefit‐cost analyses of policies that might reduce wrongful convictions such as increased expenditures for DNA testing or indigent defense counsel.
Radiological features and clinical implications of persistent congenital mesocolon: Pictorial essay
Authors: Ghahremani Gary G
Published: November 2021

In human foetus, the mesenteries that carry vascular and neural supply to the alimentary tube play an important role in its development and anatomical location within the abdominal cavity. The mesenteric attachments of the small bowel, transverse colon and sigmoid allow them to be intraperitoneally mobile structures. In contrast, the ascending and descending colon lose their mesenteries by fusion with the parietal peritoneum and become fixed in retroperitoneal position along the posterolateral walls of the abdomen. In about 2%–4% of individuals, this process is disrupted, causing a complete or partial retention of their congenital mesocolon. The ascending or descending colon will then remain intraperitoneally mobile, affecting the normal visceral anatomy and causing potential complications. This article reviews the spectrum of radiological manifestations and clinical consequences of these anomalies.
A framework to model a web of linkage disequilibria for natural allotetraploid populations
Authors: Yang Dengcheng , Li Fan , Wang Jing , Dong Ang , Wu Rongling
Published: November 2021

Linkage disequilibrium (LD) is an important genetic parameter used to infer the genetic diversity of natural populations and their evolutionary history. Traditionally, LD is defined as the non‐random association of non‐alleles at different loci in gametes for diploids, but has a limited use for polyploids.

We formulate a framework to define tetraploid‐specific LD including (a) Hardy–Weinberg disequilibria at each locus, (b) composite digenic disequilibrium, (c) trigenic disequilibrium and (d) composite quadrigenic disequilibrium at different loci. These four types of disequilibria affect population variation singly or jointly through a web. We implement the EM algorithm to estimate each disequilibrium parameter and test its significance in allotetraploid populations.

We perform computer simulation to examine the statistical properties of our computational model. Through analysing a population genetic data of allotetraploid switchgrass, we chart the genomic distribution of LD on different chromosomes from which the evolutionary history of switchgrass is inferred, demonstrating the practical usefulness of the model.

We have developed a statistical model for LD analysis in allotetraploids. The model can be generalized as a tool to study the population diversity and evolution of polyploid populations.
Intolerance of uncertainty and novelty facilitated extinction: The impact of reinforcement schedule
Authors: Wake Shannon , Dodd Helen , Morriss Jayne
Published: November 2021

Individuals who score high in intolerance of uncertainty (IU) display reduced threat extinction. Recently, it was shown that replacing threat associations with novel associations during extinction learning (i.e., presenting a novel tone 100% of the time) can promote threat extinction retention in individuals with high IU. This novelty facilitated extinction (NFE) effect could be driven by the tone's novelty or reliability. Here, we sought to address this question by adjusting the reliability of the novel tone (i.e., the reinforcement rate) during NFE. We measured skin conductance response during an associative learning task in which participants (n = 92) were assigned to one of three experimental groups: standard extinction, NFE 100% reinforcement, or NFE 50% reinforcement. For standard extinction, compared to NFE 100% and 50% reinforcement groups, we observed a trend for greater recovery of the conditioned response during extinction retention. Individuals with high IU relative to low IU in the standard extinction group demonstrated a larger recovery of the conditioned response during extinction retention. These findings tentatively suggest that NFE effects are driven by the novelty rather than the reliability of the new stimulus. The implications of these findings for translational and clinical research in anxiety disorder pathology are discussed.
Warmed and humidified insufflation to prevent perioperative hypothermia and improve the quality of recovery in elective laparoscopic colorectal resection patients: a feasibility study for a triple‐blind randomized controlled trial
Authors: Reeves Nicola , White Judith , Bird Samuel , Shinkwin Michael , Cornish Julie , Torkington Jared
Published: November 2021

Aim

The use of standard CO2 for insufflation during laparoscopic colorectal surgery may be associated with cooling and drying of the peritoneal cavity, contributing to perioperative hypothermia. The aim of this work was the assess the feasibility of a study to compare insufflation of warmed, humidified CO2 (WHCO2) (using HumiGard, Fisher and Paykel Healthcare) with standard measures and its impact on the quality of recovery of surgical patients.

Method

A single‐centre, triple‐blind, feasibility, randomized controlled trial (RCT) of adults scheduled for planned laparoscopic colorectal surgery. The primary outcome was recruitment. Secondary outcomes included feasibility of blinding, acceptability to patients and suitability of objective measures: patient‐reported quality of recovery using a validated questionnaire (QoR‐40), patient pain scores and semi‐continuous core temperature measurements.

Results

Thirty‐nine participants were randomized to either the WHCO2 group (n = 19) or standard care alone (n = 20). Recruitment to the study was successful and acceptable to patients. Blinding of the surgeons, patients and assessors was effective. Response rates to QoR‐40 were high but ceiling effects were observed, indicating that the tool was unsuitable in this population. Fewer patients in the WHCO2 group reported postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) at days 1 (53% vs. 65%) and 3 (37% vs. 60%). The median hospital length of stay was 5.5 days in the standard care group and 4 days in the WHCO2 group.

Conclusion

A study of WHCO2 for insufflation in laparoscopic colorectal surgery would be highly acceptable to both patients and researchers. Potential reductions in PONV and hospital length of stay in patients treated with WHCO2 merit further investigation. The design of the full‐scale RCT will benefit from this feasibility study.
Endobronchial ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspiration diagnosis of metastatic FUS‐ERG‐rearranged extraskeletal Ewing sarcoma following 15 years of untreated metastatic recurrence
Authors: Wang Chiyun , Dickson Brendan C. , Smith Adam C. , Hope Andrew J. , Ko Hyang Mi
Published: November 2021

This case report demonstrates challenges in the cytological diagnosis of metastatic extraskeletal Ewing sarcoma from an endobronchial ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspiration biopsy and the important role of ancillary molecular analysis. It also adds to the small number of Ewing sarcoma with FUS‐ERG fusion in the literature by highlighting an exceptionally indolent clinical course over 15 years of slowly progressing pulmonary metastases in the absence of any treatment.
Hepatitis E virus and Bell’s palsy
Authors: Fritz‐Weltin Miriam , Niedermeier Lisa , Frommherz Estelle , Isenmann Nora , Csernalabics Benedikt , Boettler Tobias , Neumann‐Haefelin Christoph , Endres Dominique , Panning Marcus , Berger Benjamin
Published: November 2021

Background and purpose

Acute hepatitis E virus (HEV) infections have been associated with various neurological disorders, including individual cases with Bell's palsy. Nonetheless, systematic studies in the latter are lacking. Therefore, this retrospective study systematically screened a cohort of patients with Bell's palsy for an acute HEV infection.

Methods

Overall, 104 patients with Bell's palsy treated in our clinic between 2008 and 2018 were identified. Serum samples were analyzed for anti‐HEV immunoglobulin (Ig)M and IgG antibodies by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Additionally, serum samples were tested for HEV RNA by polymerase chain reaction in 92 of these 104 patients presenting within the first 7 days from symptom onset. A large group of 263 healthy individuals served as controls.

Results

None of the patients with Bell's palsy but two healthy controls (0.8%) had an acute HEV infection. Anti‐HEV IgG seroprevalence indicating previous infection was unexpectedly high in patients with Bell's palsy (34%) and revealed an age‐dependent increase.

Conclusions

In this first systematic study, no cases of Bell's palsy in association with an acute HEV infection were identified. However, based on previous case descriptions, rare associations cannot be excluded. Therefore, large prospective multicenter studies will be necessary for conclusions that are more definitive.
Multimodal assessment of autonomic dysfunction in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Weise David , Menze Ina , Metelmann Moritz C. F. , Woost Timo B. , Classen Joseph , Otto Pelz Johann
Published: November 2021

Background and purpose

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disorder with predominant progressive degeneration of motor neurons and motor deficits, but non‐motor symptoms (NMS) such as cognitive and behavioural deficits are frequent and underestimated in current diagnostic pathways. Autonomic dysfunction has occasionally been described, although its frequency and relevance are unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of the autonomic nervous system in ALS using a multimodal approach.

Methods

Thirty‐seven ALS patients and 40 healthy sex‐ and age‐matched controls were included. NMS were studied with the NMS assessment scale for Parkinson's disease and an autonomic subscale was calculated. Cardioautonomic innervation at rest and whilst standing was assessed by different parameters of heart rate variability. Morphological changes (cross‐sectional area) of the vagus and median nerves for control were measured with high‐resolution ultrasound.

Results

Non‐motor symptoms in general were more frequent in ALS patients and correlated inversely with the ALS Functional Rating Scale whereas the autonomic subscore of the NMS assessment scale for Parkinson's disease did not differ between the two groups and was not related to functional impairment. Cardioautonomic assessment solely revealed an increased heart rate at rest in ALS patients, whereas the other heart rate variability parameters did not differ from controls. Structural sonographic investigation of the vagus and median nerves was similar in both groups.

Conclusions

Using a multimodal approach evidence was found for a rather mild cardio‐sympathetic overactivity in ALS patients. Overall, autonomic dysfunction seems to be subtle and is not related to the functional state of ALS patients.
Effect of the reaction temperature on the prothrombin time and the apparent International Normalized Ratio determined with International Standards for thromboplastins
Authors: Van Den Besselaar Antonius M. H. P. , Cobbaert Christa M.
Published: November 2021

Introduction

The definition of the International Normalized Ratio (INR) depends on a reference measurement procedure for the prothrombin time (PT) determined with international standards for thromboplastins. The agreed water bath temperature for PT determination in the reference measurement procedure is 37°C. The aim of the study was to assess the influence of small deviations of the agreed reaction temperature on PT and INR determined with World Health Organization international standards for thromboplastins rTF/16 (recombinant human) and RBT/16 (rabbit brain).

Methods

Prothrombin time was determined, with a manual hook technique, in glass test tubes in a water bath at a controlled temperature. The PT reaction temperatures were varied between 28 and 40°C. Pooled normal plasma and pooled coumarin plasma (INR ≈ 2.8) were used as test plasmas. The data were fitted to a quadratic relationship between PT and temperature.

Results

Prothrombin times with rTF/16 were shortened by increasing the reaction temperature up to approximately 39‐40°C. PTs with RBT/16 were shortened by increasing the reaction temperature up to approximately 34‐37°C, but were prolonged at higher temperatures. The apparent INR change of the coumarin plasma at 37.0°C was 0.06/°C and 0.11/°C for rTF/16 and RBT/16, respectively.

Conclusions

Reaction temperature had a significant effect on PT and the apparent INR with the International Standards. At 37.0°C, the apparent INR of coumarin plasma determined with RBT/16 was more responsive to temperature change than the apparent INR determined with rTF/16. The required accuracy of the water bath temperature should be 37.0 ± 0.1°C.
What sequencing technologies can teach us about innate immunity*
Authors: Mohammed Salih Mays , Carpenter Susan
Published: November 2021

For years, we have taken a reductionist approach to understanding gene regulation through the study of one gene in one cell at a time. While this approach has been fruitful it is laborious and fails to provide a global picture of what is occurring in complex situations involving tightly coordinated immune responses. The emergence of whole‐genome techniques provides a system‐level view of a response and can provide a plethora of information on events occurring in a cell from gene expression changes to splicing changes and chemical modifications. As with any technology, this often results in more questions than answers, but this wealth of knowledge is providing us with an unprecedented view of what occurs inside our cells during an immune response. In this review, we will discuss the current RNA‐sequencing technologies and what they are helping us learn about the innate immune system.