bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of nonpharmacologic chronic pain management with function in a low‐income population: Evidence from a survey of a sample of Latinos from five states
Authors: Schmiesing Allie , Liang Yuanyuan , Turner Barbara J.
Published: August 2021

Background

Low‐income minority populations often confront barriers to professional nonpharmacologic management of chronic pain and, without this care, may have poorer daily function.

Objective

To examine the association of professional nonpharmacologic chronic pain management in the past year categorized as physical interventions or mind‐body interventions with current functional status.

Design

Online, population‐based survey.

Setting

Community‐dwelling Latinos from five southwestern states (California, Texas, Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico).

Participants

The survey was offered to all Latino online panel members aged 35 to 75 years in 5 states (N = 1007). With weights, this sample represented 11,016,135 persons. Of 516 respondents (51%), 486 (94%) had valid surveys and, of these, 102 members (21%) had chronic noncancer pain. With weights, they represented 1,140,170 persons with chronic pain.

Interventions

Not applicable.

Main outcome measures

Daily impairment in mobility and in activities of daily living (ADLs).

Results

Of the weighted sample, 37.2% reported daily impairment in mobility and 29.4% in ADLs. Professional physical interventions for chronic pain were received by 41.2% and mind‐body interventions received by 33.4% but usually with physical interventions. Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) of daily mobility impairment for respondents who used physical interventions with mind‐body interventions or alone were both less than 0.10 (p < .01) versus none. Only professional physical intervention was associated with decreased odds for daily impairment in ADLs (AOR = 0.07; 95% confidence interval = 0.01 to 0.94; p = .045).

Conclusions

In a weighted sample of Latinos with chronic pain, professional physical interventions reduced the likelihood of daily impairment in mobility and ADLs.
The effect of dual‐task testing on the balance and gait of people with lower limb amputations: A systematic review
Authors: Omana Humberto , Madou Edward , Montero‐Odasso Manuel , Payne Michael W. , Viana Ricardo , Hunter Susan W.
Published: August 2021

Objective

To systematically review the literature on the effect of dual‐task testing on the balance and gait of people with lower limb amputations (PLLA).

Literature Survey

Databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Scopus were searched in duplicate (inception to December 1, 2020).

Methodology

Inclusion criteria: participants were adults with transtibial, knee‐disarticulation, transfemoral, or bilateral lower limb amputations; balance or gait was paired with a secondary task; and studies were peer‐reviewed and published in English. Two authors independently reviewed articles and consensus was required. A standardized data extraction sheet was used to gather study relevant information in duplicate. Methodological quality of reporting was examined using the Downs and Black Scale. A meta‐analysis was unable to be performed owing to substantial participant and protocol heterogeneity among the studies included.

Synthesis

Of 3950 articles screened, 22 met inclusion criteria. Four assessed dual‐task balance and 18 dual‐task gait. During single‐task standing, PLLA demonstrated higher sway distance and sway velocity than controls (CN); however, a greater dual‐task effect was observed only for sway velocity. Gait pace, rhythm, variability, asymmetry, and postural control were observed to be worse in PLLA relative to CN during single‐task. Dual‐task gait testing resulted in a disproportionally reduced pace and rhythm and increased asymmetry in PLLA compared to CN.

Conclusions

People with lower limb amputations have impaired balance and gait, which is affected by dual‐task to a greater degree compared to healthy adults. An examination of how PLLA‐specific factors such as level of amputation, reason for amputation, and experience with a prosthesis affect dual‐task performance has not yet been thoroughly explored. Future research should continue to characterize the cognitive‐mobility link to better understand the challenges associated with the use of a prosthesis.
Deposition of charged aerosols by E × B enhanced low‐temperature plasma jet array
Authors: Chen Baihan , Huang Zhongzheng , Liu Dawei
Published: August 2021

In this paper, an efficient plasma jet array based on the E × B enhancement was developed. The direction of the magnetic field was the same as the propagation direction of the plasma jet, and the direction of the electric field was perpendicular to the plasma jet. The E × B enhancement increased the length of the plasma jet from 0.5 to 1.8 cm, the discharge current peak by 37.8%, and the plasma power by 11.1%, compared with the control case. Three‐dimensional simulation of electrons movement indicates that the confinement of electrons in the high argon concentration region was the main reason for the E × B enhancement. The stronger discharge based on the E × B enhancement increased the ion density in the open air significantly. The charged aerosols were generated through the diffusion charging mechanism. The image charge electric force between charged and neutral aerosols increased the collision rate between aerosols, therefore, the larger aerosols were generated, and 108% more deposition of aerosols than the natural settlement case were achieved.
Surface energy balance of sub‐Arctic roads with varying snow regimes and properties in permafrost regions
Authors: Chen Lin , Voss Clifford I. , Fortier Daniel , McKenzie Jeffrey M.
Published: August 2021

Surface energy balance (SEB) strongly influences the thermal state of permafrost, cryohydrological processes, and infrastructure stability. Road construction and snow accumulation affect the energy balance of underlying permafrost. Herein, we use an experimental road section of the Alaska Highway to develop a SEB model to quantify the surface energy components and ground surface temperature (GST) for different land cover types with varying snow regimes and properties. Simulated and measured ground temperatures are in good agreement, and our results show that the quantity of heat entering the embankment center and slope is mainly controlled by net radiation, and less by the sensible heat flux. In spring, lateral heat flux from the embankment center leads to earlier disappearance of snowpack on the embankment slope. In winter, the insulation created by the snow cover on the embankment slope reduces heat loss by a factor of three compared with the embankment center where the snow is plowed. The surface temperature offsets are 5.0°C and 7.8°C for the embankment center and slope, respectively. Furthermore, the heat flux released on the embankment slope exponentially decreases with increasing snow depth, and linearly decreases with earlier snow cover in fall and shorter snow‐covered period in spring.
Current challenges in performing PSM audits
Authors: Hazzan Michael J. , Rose Martin R. , Heller David M. , Sanderson Scott
Published: August 2021

In the last 2–3 years, Process Safety Management (PSM) audits have become more difficult to perform. As time has passed since the adoption of the PSM Standard and Risk Management Program (RMP) rule, as well as state PSM regulations, the guidance published in support of applying the regulations has expanded, while the regulations themselves, at least the federal ones, have remained static. Facilities have become more sensitive to the number and the nature of audit findings, continuous improvement in PSM programs has become somewhat controversial, and the definitions of “overdue” and “timely” have become more difficult to interpret and apply. These issues and others have conspired to create some of these difficulties.
The role of formulation co‐ingredients in skin and glove barrier protection against organophosphate insecticides
Authors: Tefera Yonatal M , Gaskin Sharyn , Thredgold Leigh , Pisaniello Dino
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND

Commercially formulated pesticide products are complex mixtures of one or more active ingredients and several co‐ingredients. However, the modifying effect of co‐ingredients on skin uptake and glove barrier protection has been poorly studied. The aim of this study was to understand the role of formulation co‐ingredients in skin and glove barrier protection performance against organophosphate insecticides.

RESULTS

We adapted standard in vitro diffusion cell methods to test permeation kinetics of two commonly used organophosphate insecticides: dimethoate and omethoate. For spray dilutions, dimethoate and omethoate did not reach breakthrough glove permeation rate (1 μg·cm−2·min−1) and no or little skin permeation was observed for up to 8 h, regardless of formulation. For exposure conditions involving highly concentrated products, significant differences in glove permeation were observed between different formulations of dimethoate (about 1.5‐fold, P < 0.05) and of omethoate (184‐fold, P < 0.001). In contrast, no difference (P > 0.05) was observed between formulations in terms of skin permeation.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that co‐ingredients play a critical role in glove barrier protection against undiluted organophosphate insecticides, whereas their influence on skin uptake was insignificant within the exposure time tested. This implies that dermal exposure risk may vary between handling different formulated products of the same active ingredient hence recommending a common glove material for different formulations of the same chemical without careful consideration of co‐ingredients and their permeation properties may not necessarily be appropriate. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Surface Modification of Cs0.1(CH3NH3)0.9PbI3 by Isopropanol as Green Antisolvent for Efficiency Enhancement of Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Bumrungsan Wakul , Hongsith Kritsada , Yarangsi Vasan , Lohawet Khathawut , Kumnorkeaw Pisith , Sucharitakul Sukrit , Phaduangdhitidhada Surachet , Choopun Supab
Published: August 2021

Surface modification of Cs0.1(CH3NH3)0.9PbI3 is investigated by antisolvent‐assisted crystallization (ASAC). The perovskite solar cells (PSCs) of FTO/SnO2/Cs0.1(CH3NH3)0.9PbI3/spiro‐OMeTAD/Ag are also fabricated. It is found that isopropanol‐treated devices exhibit a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 16.3%, which is higher than chlorobenzene‐ (11.5%) and toluene‐treated devices (12.8%). The efficiency enhancement by isopropanol treatment can be attributed to better surface coverage, larger grain size, and less pinholes confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X‐rays diffraction (XRD) results, indicating an increase in short‐circuit current density (Jsc). In addition, the increase in open‐circuit voltage (Voc) can be confirmed by photoluminescence (PL) spectra, which can be suggested to the reduce the nonradiative recombination loss in the isopropanol‐treated film. The wettability of perovskite films is studied by contact angle measurement, resulting in a higher hydrophobic surface from isopropanol‐treated devices. Also, the charge dynamic behavior of PSC devices is investigated by open‐circuit voltage decay (OCVD) measurement. It is found that the charge carrier lifetime of the isopropanol‐treated device is longer than that of chlorobenzene and toluene. Therefore, surface modification of perovskite by isopropanol treatment can enhance efficiency and isopropanol can be used as an alternative green antisolvent for the perovskite process.
Density Functional Theory Study of the High‐Pressure Characterization of Nitrogen‐Rich Energetic Materials: Bis‐Triaminoguanidinium Azotetrazolate (TAGzT)
Authors: Du Yi-Hua , Gan Yun-Dan , Zhong Mi , Liu Fu-Sheng , Liu Zheng-Tang , Liu Qi-Jun
Published: August 2021

Using density functional theory calculations, the structural, electronic, and absorption properties of the promising nitrogen‐rich energetic compound bis‐triaminoguanidinium azotetrazolate (TAGzT) under hydrostatic compression of 0–50 GPa are investigated. The results show that TAGzT has a structural transition at the pressure of 29.4 GPa. The results also show that the compressibility of TAGzT is anisotropic, and its structure is much stiffer in the b direction. Analysis of electronic properties shows that TAGzT transforms into a metallic system at 29.4 GPa due to the structural transition, where TAGzT becomes more sensitive under the pressure compression. The absorption spectra indicate that TAGzT has higher transparency in the infrared region and high optical activity in UV light, and its optical activity increases as pressure increases. This study may provide useful information for understanding how TAGzT behaves under high pressure.
Experimental and clinical studies on the effects of Portulaca oleracea L. and its constituents on respiratory, allergic, and immunologic disorders, a review
Authors: Khazdair Mohammad Reza , Saadat Saeideh , Aslani Mohammad Reza , Shakeri Farzaneh , Boskabady Mohammad Hossein
Published: August 2021

Various pharmacological effects for Portulaca oleracea were shown in previous studies. Therefore, the effects of P. oleracea and its derivatives on respiratory, allergic, and immunologic diseases according to update experimental and clinical studies are provided in this review article. PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Google Scholar were searched using appropriate keywords until the end of December 2020. The effects of P. oleracea and its constituents such as quercetin and kaempferol on an animal model of asthma were shown. Portulaca oleracea and its constituents also showed therapeutic effects on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and chronic bronchitis in both experimental and clinical studies. The possible bronchodilatory effect of P. oleracea and its ingredients was also reported. Portulaca oleracea and its constituents showed the preventive effect on lung cancer and a clinical study showed the effect of P. oleracea on patients with lung adenocarcinoma. In addition, a various constituents of P. oleracea including, quercetin and kaempferol showed therapeutic effects on lung infections. This review indicates the therapeutic effect of P. oleracea and its constituents on various lung and allergic disorders but more clinical studies are required to establish the clinical efficacy of this plant and its constituents on lung and allergic disorders.
Soil aggregate‐associated organic carbon and nitrogen response to long‐term no‐till crop rotation, cover crop, and manure application
Authors: Bansal Sangeeta , Yin Xinhua , Sykes Virginia , Lee Jaehoon , Jagadamma Sindhu
Published: August 2021

Soil C and N sequestration using conservation practices to alleviate climate change are necessary; however, diverse crop management influences on aggregate‐associated C and N levels need consideration. Our objective was to compare bulk soil and aggregate‐associated C and N under cover crops hairy vetch (Vicia villosa Roth) and winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), poultry litter application, fallow control, and crop rotations of continuous cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.), cotton–corn (Zea mays L.), continuous corn, corn–soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.], continuous soybean, and soybean–cotton in a long‐term (2002–2018) no‐tillage field experiment at Milan, TN. Soil organic C (SOC) and N were assessed at 0–15 and 15–30 cm bulk soil and in >2, 0.25–2, 0.053–0.25, and <0.053 mm aggregates at depths 0–5, 5–10, 10–15, and 15–30 cm. In 0–15 cm, poultry litter resulted in 4.14, 3.92, and 3.48 Mg ha–1 significantly (P ≤ .05) higher SOC, and 0.50, 0.52, and 0.44 Mg ha–1 significantly higher N than hairy vetch, wheat, and fallow, respectively. Continuous corn and corn–soybean showed significantly higher SOC content in >2 and 0.25–2 mm at 0–5 cm, whereas in other crop rotations, 0.25–2 mm exhibited significantly higher SOC content than >2 mm. Poultry litter had significantly higher soil N in >2 and 0.25–2 mm at 0–5 cm than hairy vetch, wheat, and fallow. Inclusion of continuous corn or rotation of corn and soybean, integrated with poultry litter applied as manure, can serve as SOC and N sinks in macroaggregates enhancing C and N sequestration under no‐till management and humid subtropical climate.
SOGI Asylum in Europe: Emerging Patterns
Authors: Danisi Carmelo , Dustin Moira , Ferreira Nuno , Held Nina
Published: August 2021

This chapter brings together some of the recurring but not always visible phenomena relating to SOGI asylum that have remained below the surface in the previous chapters. We are keen not to conflate or homogenise what are often very different individual experiences in Germany, Italy and the UK. Rather, we identify themes and common factors that may take diverse forms but that, at the same time, shaped the experiences of our participants and are the basis for the targeted recommendations in our final chapter. We group these phenomena under four headings: identities, discrimination, place and agency. By doing so, this chapter draws together the recurring or more significant findings from the chapters that constitute Part II, and presents and analyses them using the theoretical approaches in Chap. 3 to show that what may appear to be discrete phenomena in fact derive from systemic failures to apply an intersectional, queer, feminist and human rights based understanding to SOGI asylum.
Researching SOGI Asylum
Authors: Danisi Carmelo , Dustin Moira , Ferreira Nuno , Held Nina
Published: August 2021

The SOGICA project ran from September 2016 until August 2020. In these four years, the project consisted of different phases: (1) delineating the project’s methodology and theoretical and analytical frameworks, in particular how human rights, feminist and queer studies and the concept of intersectionality can be used as particular lenses for the analysis of SOGI asylum claims; (2) preparing and conducting fieldwork in Germany, Italy, the UK and at EU and Council of Europe levels; (3) analysing the data, writing up the results and producing detailed policy recommendations.
The Asylum Claim Determination
Authors: Danisi Carmelo , Dustin Moira , Ferreira Nuno , Held Nina
Published: August 2021

Public international law and, more specifically, international human rights law protect the right to access an asylum determination procedure and the principle of non-refoulement, as established in Chap. 3. Some would argue that asylum should not be seen by states as their own prerogative, but rather as a fundamental human right (Díaz Lafuente, 2014, pp. 206–207). How the right to access to asylum determination and the principle of non-refoulement are implemented varies from country to country, including within the EU, as discussed in Chap. 4. Chapter 6 dissected the different procedures adopted to adjudicate SOGI claims of international protection in Germany, Italy and the UK. In this chapter, we focus on the decision itself by analysing the Refugee Status Determination (RSD) process in the three countries studied. In the process, we highlight similarities and differences, merits and shortcomings, and often inconsistencies with supranational and international standards.
Beanspruchungsgefüge & Beanspruchungsfolgen
Authors: Hein Rüdiger
Published: August 2021

Aus den dargestellten Wirkungskriterien und Wirkungspfaden ergeben sich Belastungssituationen, die die Arbeitsgestaltung von SE prägen. Sämtliche der in Kapitel 5 bis 9 benannten Teilkriterien können für sich eine Belastung darstellen und in der Folge den SE beanspruchen. Das dabei entstehende Bedingungsgefüge an Belastungen und an Beanspruchung verkörpert den aus der Datenauswertung hervorgegangenen zentralen Stellenwert bei der Beantwortung der Forschungsfrage. Schilderungen der Interviewpartner zu generierten Kodes werden zur Illustration eingearbeitet. Die Erkenntnisse werden im internationalen Forschungskontext gespiegelt und in der Forschungslandschaft verortet. Kapitelabschließend wird die Bedeutung der Erkenntnisse für das Wirkungsmodell zur Arbeitsgestaltung aufgezeigt.
Beginn der Forschungsreise: Ausgangssituation zur zentralen Forschungsfrage und Vorüberlegungen zur Herleitung des eigenen Forschungsprozesses
Authors: Hein Rüdiger
Published: August 2021

Dieses Kapitel widmet sich der fachlichen und methodologischen Verortung der Leitfrage im deutschen Forschungsfeld, wobei die nachfolgenden Ausführungen dreierlei Stellenwert besitzen: (1) einen inhaltlichen Stellenwert im Praxisfeld, da der Erkenntnisstand zur zentralen Fragestellung auf Basis bereits vorliegender Erhebungen in Deutschland ermittelt wird; (2) einen wissenschaftlich begründeten Stellwert, da die empirische Güte der herangezogenen Studien, denen der Forschungsstand entnommen ist, bewertet wird; (3) einen methodologischen Stellenwert, da auf Basis der inhaltlichen und der wissenschaftlichen Ist-Situation eine Entscheidungsgrundlage für das Forschungsdesign der eigenen Untersuchung geschaffen wird.
Empirische Methode: Herleitung und Anwendung
Authors: Hein Rüdiger
Published: August 2021

Der zuvor herausgearbeitete Forschungsstand und die dargestellten theoretischen Vorüberlegungen zeigen, dass eine systematische Überprüfung zu Merkmalen und Bedingungen der Arbeitsgestaltung von Social Entrepreneuren in Deutschland bis dato nicht besteht, geschweige denn in wissenschaftlich abgesicherter Form. Demzufolge wird in diesem Kapitel für das Beantworten der zentralen Forschungsfrage ein qualitativ-empirisches Untersuchungsdesign als Interviewforschung hergeleitet und erläutert. Die angewandten empirischen Verfahren – von der Datenerhebung bis zur Datenauswertung – werden begründend ausgewählt und genau beschrieben.
Aufgabenbezogene Anforderungen/Besonderheiten
Authors: Hein Rüdiger
Published: August 2021

Aufgabenbezogene Anforderungen und Besonderheiten beziehen sich auf weitere strukturelle Rahmenbedingungen. Für diese Kategorie lassen sich folgende Unterkategorien herausarbeiten, die in dieser Reihenfolge dargestellt und diskutiert werden: Zielgruppenmanagement; Marktabhängigkeiten; Messung von Social Impact; Gemeinnützigkeitsstatus; hybride Organisationsstrukturen; ergänzende Aspekte zu finanziellen Herausforderungen. Zur Illustration werden dabei Schilderungen der Interviewpartner zu generierten Kodes wieder als Endnotenverweis eingearbeitet, und die gewonnenen Erkenntnisse werden an internationalen Studien, die im Forschungskontext der Arbeitsgestaltung und der Wirkung von Arbeit von Social Entrepreneuren bestehen, gespiegelt und in der bestehenden Forschungslandschaft verortet. Kapitelabschließend wird aufgezeigt, welche Bedeutung die in diesem Kapitel dargestellten Erkenntnisse für das Wirkungsmodell zur Arbeitsgestaltung von SE besitzen.
Personenbezogene Merkmale von Social Entrepreneuren (SE), Einstellungen & Motive
Authors: Hein Rüdiger
Published: August 2021

Für die Kategorie „Personenbezogene Merkmale von SE, Einstellungen und Motive“ lassen sich folgende Unterkategorien herausarbeiten, die in dieser Reihenfolge dargestellt und diskutiert werden: motivationale Aspekte sozialunternehmerischen Handelns; Motive und Phasen des Motivationsprozesses; Stellenwert von Bedürfnissen und Werten im Motivationsprozess; Positionierung gegenüber dem Geldverdienen; persönliche finanzielle Absicherung; begriffliche Determinanten zur SE(O)-Zugehörigkeit; Anspruchsniveau Problemlösung;Anspruchsniveau Skalierung; Anspruchsniveau Innovationsentwicklung; Zielsetzung und Zielerreichung; Stellenwert des Unternehmertums im Verhältnis zur sozialen Zielsetzung; konzeptionelle (Un‑)Vereinbarkeit von sozialer Zielsetzung und Unternehmertum; Hinweise zur Persönlichkeitstypologie von Social Entrepreneuren. Schilderungen der Interviewpartner zu generierten Kodes werden zur Illustration eingearbeitet. Die Erkenntnisse werden im internationalen Forschungskontext gespiegelt und in der Forschungslandschaft verortet. Kapitelabschließend wird die Bedeutung der Erkenntnisse für das Wirkungsmodell zur Arbeitsgestaltung aufgezeigt.
(Phenomenology/Lattice-Compatible) SU(3) MχPT HD up to $$ \mathcal{O} $$(p4) and the $$ \mathcal{O} $$(R4)-Large-N Connection
Authors: Yadav Vikas , Yadav Gopal , Misra Aalok
Published: August 2021

Abstract

Obtaining the values of the coupling constants of the low energy effective theory corresponding to QCD, compatible with experimental data, even in the (vector) mesonic sector from (the $$ \mathcal{M} $$
M
-theory uplift of) a UV-complete string theory dual, has thus far been missing in the literature. We take the first step in this direction by obtaining the values of the coupling constants of the $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(p4) χPT Lagrangian in the chiral limit involving the NGBs and ρ meson (and its flavor partners) from the $$ \mathcal{M} $$
M
-theory/type IIA dual of large-N thermal QCD, inclusive of the $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(R4) corrections. We observe that ensuring compatibility with phenomenological/lattice results (the values) as given in [1], requires a relationship relating the $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(R4) corrections and large-N suppression. In other words, QCD demands that the higher derivative corrections and the large-N suppressed corrections in its M/string theory dual, are related. As a bonus, we explicitly show that the $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(R4) corrections in the UV to the $$ \mathcal{M} $$
M
-theory uplift of the type IIB dual of large-N thermal QCD at low temperatures, can be consistently set to be vanishingly small.
Thermodynamics of Dyonic NUT Charged Black Holes with entropy as Noether charge
Authors: Abbasvandi Niloofar , Tavakoli Masoumeh , Mann Robert B.
Published: August 2021

Abstract

We investigate the thermodynamic behaviour of Lorentzian Dyonic Taub-NUT Black Hole spacetimes. We consider two possibilities in their description: one in which their entropy is interpreted to be one quarter of the horizon area (the horizon entropy), and another in which the Misner string also contributes to the entropy (the Noether charge entropy). We find that there can be as many as three extremal black holes (or as few as zero) depending on the choice of parameters, and that the dependence of the free energy on temperature — and the resultant phase behaviour — depends very much on which of these situations holds. Some of the phase behaviour we observe holds regardless of which interpretation of the entropy holds. However another class of phase transition structures occurs only if the Noether charge interpretation of the entropy is adopted.
Ambitwistor strings in six and five dimensions
Authors: Geyer Yvonne , Mason Lionel , Skinner David
Published: August 2021

Abstract

Ambitwistor strings are chiral (holomorphic) strings whose target is the space of complex null geodesics, ambitwistor space. We introduce twistor representations of ambitwistor space in 6 and 5 dimensions. In 6d the twistor representation is naturally conformally invariant. Anomaly cancellation leads to models that describe biadjoint scalar amplitudes and certain conformally invariant gauge and gravity theories, respectively of 4th and 6th order. There are three such models, reflecting triality for the conformal group SO(8) associated to these 6d models. On reduction to five dimensions, gauge anomaly cancellation requires supersymmetry and the resulting models describe maximally supersymmetric Yang-Mills and gravity. The twistor representation of these ambitwistor strings lead to formulæ for maximally supersymmetric gauge and gravity amplitudes based on the polarized scattering equations in 5d, found earlier by the first two authors.
Dispersion relations and exact bounds on CFT correlators
Authors: Paulos Miguel F.
Published: August 2021

Abstract

We derive new crossing-symmetric dispersion formulae for CFT correlators restricted to the line. The formulae are equivalent to the sum rules implied by what we call master functionals, which are analytic extremal functionals which act on the crossing equation. The dispersion relations provide an equivalent formulation of the constraints of the Polyakov bootstrap and hence of crossing symmetry on the line. The built in positivity properties imply simple and exact lower and upper bounds on the values of general CFT correlators on the Euclidean section, which are saturated by generalized free fields. Besides bounds on correlators, we apply this technology to determine new universal constraints on the Regge limit of arbitrary CFTs and obtain very simple and accurate representations of the 3d Ising spin correlator.
Prospects for direct CP tests of hqq interactions
Authors: Alonso Rodrigo , Fraser-Taliente Cristofero , Hays Chris , Spannowsky Michael
Published: August 2021

Abstract

We study the prospects for probing the CP structure of hqq interactions using the decays of the lightest baryon Λq formed in the quark’s hadronization. The low yields of reconstructible events make it unlikely for tests to be performed with the next generation of colliders. In h → b$$ \overline{b} $$

b
¯

→ Λb$$ \overline{\Lambda} $$

Λ
¯

b decays a CP-sensitive distribution could be measured with a high-luminosity e+e− collider, while in both h → b$$ \overline{b} $$

b
¯

→ Λb$$ \overline{\Lambda} $$

Λ
¯

b and h → c$$ \overline{c} $$

c
¯

→ Λc$$ \overline{\Lambda} $$

Λ
¯

c decays such a distribution could be measured with a very high luminosity μ+μ− collider. However, we find that only the μ+μ− collider can produce enough h → b$$ \overline{b} $$

b
¯

→ Λb$$ \overline{\Lambda} $$

Λ
¯

b decays to probe a physical CP asymmetry in the hbb vertex.
Stent-Based Retrieval Techniques in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients with and Without Susceptibility Vessel Sign
Authors: Belachew Nebiyat F. , Piechowiak Eike I. , Dobrocky Tomas , Meinel Thomas R. , Hakim Arsany , Barvulsky Enrique A. , Vynckier Jan , Arnold Marcel , Seiffge David J. , Wiest Roland , Fischer Urs , Gralla Jan , Kaesmacher Johannes , Mordasini Pasquale
Published: August 2021

Background and Purpose

Randomized controlled trials have challenged the assumption that reperfusion success after mechanical thrombectomy varies depending on the retrieval techniques applied; however, recent analyses have suggested that acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients showing susceptibility vessel sign (SVS) may respond differently. We aimed to compare different stent retriever (SR)-based thrombectomy techniques with respect to interventional outcome parameters depending on SVS status.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 497 patients treated with SR-based thrombectomy for anterior circulation AIS. Imaging was conducted using a 1.5 T or 3 T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner. Logistic regression analyses were performed to test for the interaction of SVS status and first-line retrieval technique. Results are shown as percentages, total values or adjusted odds ratio (aOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

An SVS was present in 87.9% (n = 437) of patients. First-line SR thrombectomy was used to treat 293 patients, whereas 204 patients were treated with a combined approach (COA) of SR and distal aspiration. An additional balloon-guide catheter (BGC) was used in 273 SR-treated (93.2%) and 89 COA-treated (43.6%) patients. On logistic regression analysis, the interaction variable of SVS status and first-line retrieval technique was not associated with first-pass reperfusion (aOR 1.736, 95% CI 0.491–6.136; p = 0.392), overall reperfusion (aOR 3.173, 95% CI 0.752–13.387; p = 0.116), periinterventional complications, embolization into new territories, or symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage. The use of BGC did not affect the results.

Conclusion

While previous analyses indicated that first-line SR thrombectomy may promise higher rates of reperfusion than contact aspiration in AIS patients with SVS, our data show no superiority of any particular SR-based retrieval technique regardless of SVS status.
Does 3D-assisted surgery of tibial plateau fractures improve surgical and patient outcome? A systematic review of 1074 patients
Authors: Assink Nick , Reininga Inge H. F. , ten Duis Kaj , Doornberg Job N. , Hoekstra Harm , Kraeima Joep , Witjes Max J. H. , de Vries Jean-Paul P. M. , IJpma Frank F. A.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The aim of this systematic review was to provide an overview of current applications of 3D technologies in surgical management of tibial plateau fractures and to assess whether 3D-assisted surgery results in improved clinical outcome as compared to surgery based on conventional imaging modalities.

Methods

A literature search was performed in Pubmed and Embase for articles reporting on the use of 3D techniques in operative management of tibial plateau fractures. This systematic review was performed in concordance with the PRISMA-guidelines. Methodological quality and risk of bias was assessed according to the guidelines of the McMaster Critical Appraisal. Differences in terms of operation time, blood loss, fluoroscopy frequency, intra-operative revision rates and patient-reported outcomes between 3D-assisted and conventional surgery were assessed. Data were pooled using the inverse variance weighting method in RevMan.

Results

Twenty articles evaluating 948 patients treated with 3D-assisted surgery and 126 patients with conventional surgery were included. Five different concepts of 3D-assisted surgery were identified: ‘3D virtual visualization’, ‘3D printed hand-held fracture models’, ‘Pre-contouring of osteosynthesis plates’, ‘3D printed surgical guides’, and ‘Intra-operative 3D imaging’. 3D-assisted surgery resulted in reduced operation time (104.7 vs. 126.4 min; P < 0.01), less blood loss (241 ml vs. 306 ml; P < 0.01), decreased frequency of fluoroscopy (5.8 vs. 9.1 times; P < 0.01). No differences in functional outcome was found (Hospital for Special Surgery Knee-Rating Scale: 88.6 vs. 82.8; P = 0.23).

Conclusions

Five concepts of 3D-assisted surgical management of tibial plateau fractures emerged over the last decade. These include 3D virtual fracture visualization, 3D-printed hand-held fracture models for surgical planning, 3D-printed models for pre-contouring of osteosynthesis plates, 3D-printed surgical guides, and intra-operative 3D imaging. 3D-assisted surgery may have a positive effect on operation time, blood loss, and fluoroscopy frequency.
Fibre bridging and nozzle clogging in 3D printing of discontinuous carbon fibre-reinforced polymer composites: coupled CFD-DEM modelling
Authors: Zhang Hao , Zhang Lixing , Zhang Haoqi , Wu Jiang , An Xizhong , Yang Dongmin
Published: August 2021

A coupled multiphase model based on computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and discrete element method (DEM) is developed to numerically investigate the extrusion-based 3D printing process of discontinuous carbon fibre-reinforced polymer composites. Short carbon fibres are modelled as rigid bodies by clumping discrete spheres in DEM, while polymer matrix is treated as an incompressible Newtonian fluid in CFD. A fluid-particle interaction model is adopted to couple DEM and CFD and represent the dynamic fibre/matrix interaction. Collisions between fibres are considered naturally in DEM by using the Hertz-Mindlin contact law. The coupled CFD-DEM is validated, both qualitatively and quantitatively, against X-ray microtomography (μCT) experimental results for the T300/PA6 composite. Parametric study on various fibre lengths, fibre volume fraction and resin viscosity using the CFD-DEM model shows that the nozzle clogging tends to occur when the fibre length and/or the fibre volume fraction are increased. Use of a polymer matrix with a lower viscosity can be effective to eliminate the clogging issue when printing composites with relatively short fibres. The fibre length is dominating when long fibres are used and the clogging is largely independent on the viscosity of the polymer matrix. Finally, a potential solution of using a cone sleeve insert located above the shrinking region to address the nozzle clogging issue is proposed and numerically assessed.
The impact of selected variants of remote control on power supply reliability indexes of distribution networks
Authors: Kozyra Jacek , Łukasik Zbigniew , Kuśmińska-Fijałkowska Aldona , Kaszuba Paweł
Published: August 2021

Ensuring reliability and continuity of energy supply is the main goal of local governments and distribution companies. The continuity of energy supply means capability of a power grid to supply agreed amount of energy, of specific quality, without power cuts. The expectations concerning the quality of supplied energy and ensuring its continuity are constantly growing, and any power cuts have significant impact on comfort of life and manufacturing and service sector. To increase reliability of energy supply and improve condition of a power grid in the distribution companies, the works are conducted to increase power supply reliability indexes.The main goal of this publication is to present a problem of discontinuity of energy supply and actions aiming at improvement of power supply reliability indexes. An analysis of discontinuity of energy supply presented in the article is based on data obtained from a selected department of a distribution company. Based on actual data, the impact of location of remote-controlled controllers on the value of SAIDI and SAIFI was presented. Four variants of remote control on the sequence of a medium-voltage cable line were analysed.
Non-contact elastography methods in mechanobiology: a point of view
Authors: Caponi Silvia , Passeri Alessandra , Capponi Giulio , Fioretto Daniele , Vassalli Massimo , Mattarelli Maurizio
Published: August 2021

In recent decades, mechanobiology has emerged as a novel perspective in the context of basic biomedical research. It is now widely recognized that living cells respond not only to chemical stimuli (for example drugs), but they are also able to decipher mechanical cues, such as the rigidity of the underlying matrix or the presence of shear forces. Probing the viscoelastic properties of cells and their local microenvironment with sub-micrometer resolution is required to study this complex interplay and dig deeper into the mechanobiology of single cells. Current approaches to measure mechanical properties of adherent cells mainly rely on the exploitation of miniaturized indenters, to poke single cells while measuring the corresponding deformation. This method provides a neat implementation of the everyday approach to measure mechanical properties of a material, but it typically results in a very low throughput and invasive experimental protocol, poorly translatable towards three-dimensional living tissues and biological constructs. To overcome the main limitations of nanoindentation experiments, a radical paradigm change is foreseen, adopting next generation contact-less methods to measure mechanical properties of biological samples with sub-cell resolution. Here we briefly introduce the field of single cell mechanical characterization, and we concentrate on a promising high resolution optical elastography technique, Brillouin spectroscopy. This non-contact technique is rapidly emerging as a potential breakthrough innovation in biomechanics, but the application to single cells is still in its infancy.
Defining the Inframammary Fold by Liposuction: An Essential Tool in Aesthetic Shaping of the Reconstructed Breast. Technique and Long-term Results in a Series of Patients
Authors: Pinto Valentina , Pignatti Marco , Contu Luca , Cipriani Riccardo
Published: August 2021

Background

A good inframammary fold (IMF) definition and position is essential to achieve a satisfactory and natural result in breast surgery. This structure can be damaged, especially during mastectomies. Multiple methods are reported in the literature to restore IMF or improve its definition. In this study, we present the results achieved in a series of patients treated with subdermal liposuction.

Methods

We report on all our patients who underwent IMF liposuction between January 2016 and June 2020. Subdermal liposuction was performed with a blunt 3 mm cannula along the new IMF to promote skin retraction and adherence between skin and fascia. Results were evaluated subjectively by the patients and objectively by 8 individuals not involved with the treatment.

Results

We performed IMF liposuction in 88 breasts (69 patients), aged 21–74 (mean 52) years for 82 implant-based reconstructions, 2 tuberous breasts, and 4 contralateral breast augmentations. Mean follow-up was 28 months (6–64). Subjective results: the overall result evaluated with the VAS scale reached 86.6/100. All the 22 patients interviewed judged as well defined the new inframammary fold. Objective results: in 83% of cases the definition of the inframammary fold was judged as good or excellent, while symmetry with contralateral IMF, natural appearance, and overall aesthetic outcome were judged as good.

Conclusion

Based on our long-term satisfactory results, we recommend the technique of subdermal liposuction to improve the definition of IMF in breast reconstruction after mastectomy and other breast procedures. It is effective, easy to perform, minimally invasive, and durable.

Level of Evidence IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each submission to which Evidence-Based Medicine rankings are applicable. This excludes Review Articles, Book Reviews, and manuscripts that concern Basic Science, Animal Studies, Cadaver Studies, and Experimental Studies. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.
Functional heterogeneity of CD4+ T cells in liver inflammation
Authors: Muscate Franziska , Woestemeier Anna , Gagliani Nicola
Published: August 2021

CD4+ T cells play an essential role in orchestrating adequate immunity, but their overactivity has been associated with the development of immune-mediated inflammatory diseases, including liver inflammatory diseases. These cells can be subclassified according to their maturation stage, cytokine profile, and pro or anti-inflammatory functions, i.e., functional heterogeneity. In this review, we summarize what has been discovered so far regarding the role of the different CD4+ T cell polarization states in the progression of two prominent and still different liver inflammatory diseases: non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). Finally, the potential of CD4+ T cells as a therapeutic target in both NASH and AIH is discussed.
Primary total knee replacement for tibial plateau fractures in older patients: a systematic review of 197 patients
Authors: Tapper V. , Toom A. , Pamilo K. , Niinimäki T. , Nieminen J. , Nurmi S. , Kortekangas T. , Paloneva J.
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Tibial plateau fractures are typically treated with osteosynthesis. In older patients, osteosynthesis is associated with some complications, risk of post-traumatic osteoarthritis and long partial, or non-weight bearing during the recovery phase. To avoid these problems, primary total knee replacement (TKR) has become an increasingly common treatment option. The aim of this study was to evaluate all the relevant literature and summarize the current evidence-based knowledge on the treatment of tibial plateau fractures with primary TKR in older patients.

Materials and methods

A systematic literature search of studies on total knee replacement (TKR) as primary treatment for acute traumatic tibial plateau fracture was conducted using OVID Medline, Scopus, and Cochrane databases from 1946 to 18 November 2019. We included all studies without restrictions regarding total knee replacement (TKR) as primary treatment for acute traumatic tibial plateau fracture.

Results

Of the 640 reviewed articles, 16 studies with a total of 197 patients met the inclusion criteria. No controlled trials were available, and the overall quality of the literature was low. The results, using different clinical scoring systems, were good or fair. Four-year follow-up complication (6.1%) and revision (3.6%) rates after primary TKR appeared to be lower than after secondary TKR (complication rate 20–48%, revision rate 8–20%) but higher than after elective primary TKR.

Conclusion

Based on low-quality evidence, TKR appears to be a useful treatment option for tibial plateau fractures in older patients. Controlled trials are mandatory to determine the relative superiority of these two options as primary treatment of tibial plateau fractures in older patients.
Amplification of cestode DNA from the peri-anal region of naturally infected foxes by PCR and LAMP: proof of concept for a potential sampling strategy for diagnosing human taeniosis
Authors: Muchaamba Gillian , Alvarez Rojas Cristian A. , Deplazes Peter
Published: August 2021

The diagnosis of human taeniosis can be achieved through coproscopy, ELISA or PCR. An important limitation of these methods is the high turnaround time for stool sample collection and preparation, indicating the need for a straightforward sampling strategy. Due to the high metabolic activity and reproductive potential of Taenia spp., we hypothesise that parasite DNA (cells and eggs) present in the peri-anal region of the host can be exploited as a target for molecular diagnosis. We evaluated the feasibility of recovering parasite DNA from the peri-anal area of foxes naturally infected with Taenia spp. Before necropsy, cotton swabs were rubbed at the peri-anal region of foxes. DNA was extracted using alkaline lysis coupled with a commercial DNA isolation kit (method A) or alkaline lysis alone (method B). DNA was used in the multiplex-PCR assay (previously described and called here swab-PCR) and a novel LAMP assay detecting Taenia spp. commonly found in foxes (swab-LAMP). The results of these assays from 105 foxes were compared with the presence of intestinal helminths determined at necropsy and by the sedimentation and counting technique (SCT). The sensitivity of swab-PCR for detecting Taenia (n = 68) was 89.8% (95% CI, 77.7–96.6) and 89.5% (66.9–98.7) using methods A and B, respectively. The sensitivity of the swab-LAMP assay was 83.7% (70.3–92.7) using method A and 89.5% (66.9–98.7) with method B. We postulate that peri-anal swab sampling followed by simplified DNA extraction and LAMP might be a suitable strategy for surveillance of human taeniosis in resource-limited settings in the future.
An algorithm to compute the strength of competing interactions in the Bering Sea based on pythagorean fuzzy hypergraphs
Authors: Nawaz Hafiza Saba , Akram Muhammad , Alcantud José Carlos R.
Published: August 2021

The networks of various problems have competing constituents, and there is a concern to compute the strength of competition among these entities. Competition hypergraphs capture all groups of predators that are competing in a community through their hyperedges. This paper reintroduces competition hypergraphs in the context of Pythagorean fuzzy set theory, thereby producing Pythagorean fuzzy competition hypergraphs. The data of real-world ecological systems posses uncertainty, and the proposed hypergraphs can efficiently deal with such information to model wide range of competing interactions. We suggest several extensions of Pythagorean fuzzy competition hypergraphs, including Pythagorean fuzzy economic competition hypergraphs, Pythagorean fuzzy row as well as column hypergraphs, Pythagorean fuzzyk-competition hypergraphs,m-step Pythagorean fuzzy competition hypergraphs and Pythagorean fuzzy neighborhood hypergraphs. The proposed graphical structures are good tools to measure the strength of direct and indirect competing and non-competing interactions. Their aptness is illustrated through examples, and results support their intrinsic interest. We propose algorithms that help to compose some of the presented graphical structures. We consider predator-prey interactions among organisms of the Bering Sea as an application: Pythagorean fuzzy competition hypergraphs encapsulate the competing relationships among its inhabitants. Specifically, the algorithm which constructs the Pythagorean fuzzy competition hypergraphs can also compute the strength of competing and non-competing relations of this scenario.