bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corporate social responsibility practices: An empirical study of voluntary and mandatory disclosure by NIFTY 100 companies
Authors: Gupta Ritika , Kumar Pankaj
Published: August 2021

Corporations have come to the realization that numerous benefits can be derived by being socially responsible in the societies they operate. Presently, the argument is not just about being a good corporate citizen but the ability of a business to communicate its social contributions to the stakeholders. Therefore, the present study examines the extent of corporate social responsibility disclosure (CSRD) practices by NIFTY 100 companies in the voluntary period of CSRD and the period after the implementation of Section‐135 of the Companies Act, 2013. The annual reports of companies are content analyzed using a CSRD measurement index to calculate disclosure score under six themes of corporate social responsibility, namely community development, human resource, environmental activities, development of rural areas, product and customer relation, and fair business. The percentage of companies making CSRD has been increasing over the period of study. In both periods, environmental activities is the most disclosed CSRD theme followed by human resource. Moreover, the results have shown a significant difference in the CSRD practices of sectors. Overall, companies operating in more sensitive sectors and high visibility sectors engage more in CSRD practices. Lastly, the results also indicate that companies have focused on different CSR themes depending on their sector type.
Structure and performance of hydrogenated styrenic block copolymers/polypropylene/oil (HSBCs/PP/oil) composites
Authors: Wu Rui , Liu Junyi , Xiong Chunzhu , Zhen Xinping , Hu Beili , Yao Huijiang , Jiao Zhen , Wu Jianxun
Published: August 2021

In the past few decades, considerable attention has been paid to the thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). Among them, hydrogenated styrenic block copolymers (HSBCs) have attracted extensive interest because of outstanding ozone resistance, remarkable aging properties, and environmental friendliness. Therefore, theoretical and experimental investigations on the HSBCs/PP/oil composites have been reported many times, but the influence of molecular structure on the structure and properties of composites has yet to be identified. In this study, three HSBCs with different molecular structures were used as the research object to systematically study the effects of their molecular structural differences on the aggregate structure, microstructural, mechanical, and thermal properties of HSBCs/PP/oil composites. It was found thatthe content of side groups in the molecular chain was the main factor affecting the structure and performance of the HSBCs/PP/oil composites. This research can provide theoretical guidance for the molecular design and structural control of the new HSBC, so it has obvious theoretical significance and practical value.
Aerosol filtration performance of nanofibrous mats produced via electrically assisted industrial‐scale solution blowing
Authors: Gungor Melike , Toptas Ali , Calisir Mehmet Durmus , Kilic Ali
Published: August 2021

Highly efficient polyamide 6 (PA6)‐based nanofibrous air filter media was developed for particulate matter (PM) removal in the ambient atmosphere. The PA6 nanofibrous mats exhibited 85% PM0.3 capture performance at a cost of 164 Pa pressure drop when the multiple‐nozzle solution blowing system was set to 8 m/h fabric winding speed. However, an increase in the winding speed at a constant feeding rate lowered the filtration efficiency to 62% due to the less amount of nanofibrous mats collected on the substrate. The application of electrical field at the same parameters allowed us to produce a filter media having FFP3‐level filtration performance, which means 99% PM0.3 capture performance. This was attributed to a fine fiber diameter (116 nm), higher solidity value (0.149), and lower average pore size (2.28 μm). These results show that the electrically assisted solution blowing provides a feasible route for the production of high‐quality nanofibrous filter media.
Sustained pharyngeal inflation on upper airway effects in children—Flexible bronchoscopy measurement
Authors: Soong Wen‐Jue , Chen Chieh‐Ho , Lin Chien‐Heng , Yang Chia‐Feng , Lee Yu‐Sheng , Tsao Pei‐Chen , Sung Yi‐Hung , Dhochak Nitin
Published: August 2021

Objective

Sustained pharyngeal inflation (SPI) with pharyngeal oxygen and nose‐closure (PhO2‐NC) can create positive peak inflation pressure (PIP) inside the pharyngolaryngeal space (PLS). This study measured and compared the effects of four different SPI durations in the PLS.

Methods

A prospective study, 20 consecutive children aged between 6 months and 3 years old, scheduled for elective flexible bronchoscopy (FB) suspected positive PLS findings were enrolled. SPI was performed twice in four different durations (0, 1, 3, and 5 s) sequentially in each infant. PIP was measured for each SPI in the pharynx, while simultaneously record images at two locations of the oropharynx and supra‐larynx. Patient demographic details, PIP levels, lumen expansion scores, and images of PLS were measured and analyzed.

Results

Twenty patients with 40 measurements were collected. The mean (SD) age and weight were 11.6 (9.1) months and 6.8 (2.4) kg, respectively. The measured mean (SD) pharyngeal PIPs were 4.1 (3.3), 21.9 (7.0), 42.2 (12.3), and 65.5 (18.5) cmH2O at SPI duration of 0, 1, 3, and 5 s, respectively, indicating significant (p<.001) positive correlation. At assigned locations, corresponding PLS images also displayed a significant increase in lumen expansion scores and a number of detected lesions with an increase in SPI duration (p < .004). The mean (SD) procedural time was 5.7 (1.2) min. No study‐related complication was noted.

Conclusions

FB utilizing PhO2‐NC as SPI of 1–3 s is a simple, less invasive, and valuable ventilation modality. It provides an adequate PIP level to expand the PLS and improve FB performance in children.
Can bronchial challenge test with adenosine or methacholine at preschool age predict school‐age asthma?
Authors: Golan‐Lagziel Tal , Mandelberg Avigdor , Wolfson Yonatan , Ater Dorit , Armoni Domany Keren
Published: August 2021

Objective

Bronchial challenge test (BCT) measures current airways‐hyperreactivity, however, its predictive role in pre‐school children (<6 years) for the diagnosis of asthma at school age is still debatable. We aimed to find whether preschool children with a positive adenosine or methacholine BCT are more prone to asthma at school age.

Methods

We included children aged 6–13 years with respiratory symptoms that were previously referred to our pulmonary function laboratory for BCT (methacholine or adenosine, depending on the question asked) at age 10 months to 6 years (baseline). BCT was considered positive based on spirometry results or wheezing, desaturation, and tachypnea reactions. The primary outcome measure was asthma diagnosis at school age using the well‐validated International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) questionnaire. We used logistic regression analysis to explore whether positive BCT could predict school‐age asthma while including age and collected modified asthma predictive index in the model.

Results

One hundred and fifty‐one of 189 children (53% males), completed the ISAAC questionnaire (response rate = 80%). Mean ages at BCT and at follow‐up were 3.9 ± 1.28 and 9.4 ± 1.85 years, respectively. At baseline, 40 of 67 had a positive adenosine test and 73 of 84 had a positive methacholine BCT. Thirty‐nine children were diagnosed with asthma at school age. Logistic regression analysis showed that a positive adenosine test at pre‐school age was the best predictor, significantly increasing the odds of asthma at school age by 6.34 (95% CI: 1.23–32.81, p = .028), while methacholine did not show significance (p = .69).

Conclusion

Choosing the relevant BCT for the question asked, positive adenosine, but not methacholine test, at pre‐school, may predict asthma at school age.
Family‐building and parenting considerations for people with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Kazmerski Traci M. , West Natalie E. , Jain Raksha , Uluer Ahmet , Georgiopoulos Anna M. , Aitken Moira L. , Taylor‐Cousar Jennifer L.
Published: August 2021

As people with cystic fibrosis (CF) live longer and healthier lives, increasing numbers are considering the full range of reproductive options for their futures, including parenthood, pregnancy, or pregnancy prevention. As the face of CF changes, the CF care model must adapt to meet the reproductive health needs of both parents and nonparents with CF. This article summarizes the reproductive goals and family‐building concerns faced by people with CF, including fertility, pregnancy, and alternative paths to parenthood, the impact of parenthood on mental and physical health, and important future research.
Living with oversized spring‐loaded vapor relief valves
Authors: Smith Dustin , Paul Ken
Published: August 2021

Pressure relief valves are installed on pressurized systems to mitigate consequences related to excessive pressure. Since relief valves come in discrete sizes, a relief system designer specifies a relief device with a rated capacity greater than the largest required relief rate. An oversized relief device is one in which a credible overpressure scenario exists; that is, the relief device capacity is more than a multiple (typically five times) the scenario's required relief rate. Most systems have more than one credible overpressure scenario (e.g., external fire or blocked outlet). In some other cases, installations in vapor service have been identified with an oversized relief device concern, without verification of whether or not these installations have a history of instability‐related damage (e.g., excessive relief device damage). Typically damage from oversized vapor relief devices is less severe than chatter which is caused by the coupling of the inlet line and the relief device, not the flow through the relief device. Some owners/operators have specified that oversized relief devices require mitigation. However, this paper shows why an oversized relief device in vapor service may not require mitigation.
Revival of Smooth MgO(100) Surface: Ar Ion‐Beam Milling and Postvacuum Annealing in Oxygen Atmosphere
Authors: Dahiya Mamta , Pal Satyendra Prakash , Khare Neeraj
Published: August 2021

A recreation procedure for achieving the smooth and clean surface morphology of the degraded MgO(100) substrates is presented. The surfaces of the degraded MgO(100) substrates are treated with Ar ion‐beam milling (IBM) and annealing in O2 atmosphere. After each treatment, the changes in the MgO(100) substrate surface morphology are characterized using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), a 3D optical profilometer, atomic force microscopy, and Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and compared with a fresh MgO substrate. It is shown that before any treatment, XRD and FTIR spectra show peaks corresponding to hydroxyl and carbonate groups in the degraded samples, whereas after treatment, XRD and FTIR spectra are comparable with the fresh sample. Further, after treatment, the surface roughness Rav value for two used/degraded samples reduces from 129 and 186 nm to 3.96 and 7.91 nm, respectively, after combined Ar IBM and annealing treatment. It is shown that the surface quality of the treated MgO(100) substrate improves in comparison with as it was before any treatment and can be reused for the good quality thin‐film deposition.
Development of recognised position‐guided navigation system
Authors: Kanehira Masaru , Okamoto Tomoyoshi , Abe Kyohei , Yasuda Jungo , Onda Shinji , Futagawa Yasuro , Ikegami Toru , Suzuki Naoki , Hattori Asaki
Published: August 2021

Background

Previously, we developed an image‐guided navigation system (IG‐NS) incorporating augmented reality technology. Nevertheless, the system could still only aid the operator by presenting imagery and was short of achieving the goal of developing a real navigation system. Therefore, we developed a recognised position‐guided navigation system (RP‐NS) and herein reported the functionality and usefulness of this system in a phantom model for clinical applications.

Methods

We developed RP‐NS which was reconstructed by adding the positional recognition and instruction functions with the cautions by displaying the images on the monitor with a voice to the IG‐NS. We evaluated accuracy of positional recognition and instruction functions using phantom model. By utilising the chronological recording of the tip position of the surgical apparatus, the surgical precision of the operators was assessed. Finally, the feasibility of improvements in surgical precision using this system was evaluated.

Results

The RP‐NS indicated an accuracy of the position recognition functions with an error of 2.7 mm. The surgeons could perform partial hepatectomies within mean value of 7.5% error as compared with calculated volume according to the instruction. Improvements in surgical precision using this system were obtained on the surgeons with different levels.

Conclusions

The RP‐NS was highly effective as a navigation system owing to precise positional recognition and adequate instruction functions. Therefore, these results indicate that the use of this system may complement differences in proficiency, and numerically evaluate surgical skills and analyse tendencies of surgeons.
Dynamic effect of three locking plates fixated to humeral fracture based on multibody musculoskeletal model
Authors: Jian‐Qiao Peng Matthew , Chen Chin‐Tu , MA LiMin , JU Xiangyang , Khambay Balvinder
Published: August 2021

Objective

This study attempts to analyse the biomechanical effect of internal fixation (plated in parallel or plated vertically) on the basis of distal humeral fractures on musculoskeletal multibody dynamics using AnyBody in Finite Element Method.

Method

Humeral 3D models were reconstructed by MIMICS after volunteers' CT image input in *.dicom format, and processed by Geomagic Studio for surfaces, while locking plates and screws were then designed by Pro‐E. A humeral model of T‐type fracture was created and assembled in Hypermesh, to integrate fixtures (e.g., MPL/PML/ML), to grid the mesh and then assign materials. A musculoskeletal model of the upper limb was established by AnyBody to simulate elbow flexion and extension. They were finally imported to Abaqus for boundary conditions and dynamic analysis.

Result

In terms of Von Mises stress, its maximum increased and then decreased gradually during the joint motion, but p > 0.05 in SPSS suggests no significant difference for all three fixtures. In terms of displacement, when the elbow was at 90°, each motional pattern reached its peak as follows: ML180° = 0.28 mm, MPL90° = 0.49 mm & PML90° = 0.54 mm during flexion; ML180° = 0.073 mm, MPL90° = 0.10 mm & PML90° = 0.12 mm during extension. p < 0.05 suggests a significant difference for the displacements of all three fixations. p = 0.007 < 0.01667 suggests the significant difference between the two fixations, for example, PML90° and ML180°, indicating that the peak displacement of ML180° is less than that of PML90°.

Conclusion

After generally analysed in musculoskeletal dynamics, the biomechanical property of the fixtures was presented as follows: the displacement of the parallel plate was less than that of the vertical, and the parallel plate may optimise the clinical reduction anatomically.
Early and late clinico‐pathologic outcomes of minimally invasive total mesorectal excision for rectal cancer: A propensity score‐matched comparison of robotic and laparoscopic approaches
Authors: Park Chan Hee , Bae Sung Uk , Jeong Woon Kyung , Baek Seong Kyu
Published: August 2021

Background

This study aimed to compare the early and late clinical outcomes of laparoscopic and robotic total mesorectal excision (TME) using propensity score matching.

Methods

The retrospective study included 489 patients who underwent laparoscopic or robotic TME for rectal cancer between June 2011 and December 2018. Overall, 131 matched pairs were generated via propensity scoring matching according to several factors.

Results

The matched groups had generally similar demographic characteristics. The robotic TME group had significantly longer mean times for the total operation and the TME procedure. There were no significant differences in terms of the other procedure‐specific parameters, although the robotic TME group had significantly shorter duration of hospitalisation and shorter duration of need for postoperative indwelling urinary catheter. Moreover, the robotic TME group had non‐significantly lower rates of late postoperative complications and reoperation.

Conclusions

Early and late clinico‐pathologic outcomes of robotic TME were comparable to that of laparoscopic TME.
Boosting H2 Production over C60‐Mediated NH2‐MIL‐125(Ti)/Zn0.5Cd0.5S S‐Scheme Heterojunction via Enhanced Interfacial Carrier Separation
Authors: Li Chunxue , Liu Xiaoteng , Huo Pengwei , Yan Yongsheng , Liao Guangfu , Ding Guixiang , Liu Chunbo
Published: August 2021

Improving greatly the separation efficiency of interfacial charge carrier is a major challenge in photocatalysis. Herein, a new class of C60‐mediated NH2‐MIL‐125(Ti)/Zn0.5Cd0.5S S‐scheme heterojunction with enhanced interfacial charge carrier separation is designed and synthesized. The constructed S‐scheme heterojunction thermodynamically favors photocatalytic H2 evolution because of the large driving force resulting from its strong redox abilities. As a consequence, the optimum proportion of C60‐mediated NH2‐MIL‐125(Ti)/Zn0.5Cd0.5S S‐scheme heterojunction displays comparable H2 evolution activity with a rate of 7825.20 µmol h−1 g−1 under visible light irradiation, which is about 93.05 times, 6.38 times and 2.65 times higher than that of 2% C60/NH2‐MIL‐125(Ti), Zn0.5Cd0.5S and 45% NH2‐MIL‐125(Ti)/Zn0.5Cd0.5S, and outperforms the majority of the previously reported MOFs‐based photocatalysts. Spectroscopic characterizations and theory calculations indicate that the S‐scheme heterojunction can powerfully promote the separation of photogenerated carriers. This work offers a new insight for future design and development of highly active MOFs‐based photocatalysts.
Ecology‐inspired resilient and affordable system of systems using degree of system order
Authors: Chatterjee Abheek , Malak Richard , Layton Astrid
Published: August 2021

An optimal trade‐off between resilience (the ability to survive and recover from disruptions) and affordability is highly desirable in System of Systems (SoS) architectures. However, it is difficult to design SoS architectures for these goals as existing resilience evaluation methods require detailed disruption models that are not readily available in the early stages of design. Biological ecosystems (nature's resilient SoS) achieve these goals through a unique balance of efficient and redundant interactions in their architectures—measured using the metric Degree of System Order (DoSO). This research tests if this ecological architecting principle and the DoSO metric are useful for designing resilient and affordable SoS. The resilience versus affordability tradespace of a large number of notional SoS architectures is investigated using the DoSO metric. Results indicate that the majority of Pareto optimal SoS architectures, under various disruptions, lie in the ecologically‐identified favorable DoSO range. Further, SoS architectures within this DoSO range were found to have better resilience and affordability attributes, in general, than the architectures outside it. DoSO evaluation does not require knowledge of disruption scenarios and is the first network architecture metric to consider resilience versus affordability trade‐offs, making it a valuable addition to the SoS engineering toolset.
Enrichment of potential toxic elements and environmental health implications: A study of the tropical agricultural soils in southern Western Ghats, India
Authors: A. Krishnakumar , Das Revathy , S.K. Aditya , K. Anoop Krishnan
Published: August 2021

Large‐scale usage of agrochemicals in the soils found in the highland regions of Western Ghats, Kerala, India, is often equated with soil contamination and land degradation. Kerala, being the second largest cardamom producer in the world, unscrupulously uses agrochemicals in cardamom plantations, which release high levels of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) into the soils. Here, the PTEs from 25 agricultural soils were taken from high‐range mountain landscapes of southern Western Ghats, India, to evaluate the sources and levels of soil pollution. The data revealed that the soil samples from the study area were contaminated with PTEs, and their observed average concentration was in the order of Ba > Zr > V > Cr > Ni > Sr > Zn > Cu. Geochemical maps were generated to understand the hotspots in trace element contamination. Correlation matrix and factor analysis were applied to apportion the sources of PTEs. Enrichment factor and geochemical accumulation index indicated slight enrichment in all the elements analyzed. The contamination factor varied from 15.41 to 25.58, signifying a considerable degree of contamination in the area with respect to soil pollution. The pollution load index (PLI) values ranged from 0.97 to 1.99, indicating progressive deterioration of the sites. High degree of contamination and PLI values implied that not only geogenic sources, but also intensified anthropogenic activities may contribute to trace element accumulation. This work provides insights on the accumulation of PTEs in the soils, which will pose a great health risk to the local population through the consumption of various agricultural products cultivated in the area.
Outcomes following single, caudally based bilateral versus unilateral frontonasal sinusotomy for treatment of equine paranasal sinus disease
Authors: Pezzanite Lynn M. , Hackett Eileen S. , McCready Erin , Easley Jeremiah T.
Published: August 2021

Background

Bilateral sinus disease is relatively uncommon in horses, accounting for 3%–4.5% of horses with sinonasal disease, but may require bilateral paranasal surgery for complete resolution. Complications and recurrence following bilateral sinusotomy have not been reported or compared to those following unilateral procedures.

Objective

To describe clinical features and outcomes in horses undergoing standing single, caudally based bilateral frontonasal sinusotomy compared to unilateral frontonasal surgery.

Methods

Records of horses (n = 37) undergoing surgical treatment for sinus disease (five bilateral, 32 unilateral) were retrospectively reviewed (2010–2017) for signalment, presenting complaint, duration of signs preoperatively, diagnostic imaging, treatments administered, duration hospitalization, complications, and owner satisfaction with the procedure. Mann–Whitney testing was used to compare age, duration of hospitalization, and follow‐up time in horses undergoing unilateral or bilateral procedures. Fisher's exact testing was used to determine if sex predilection was present for unilateral or bilateral disease. Survival time and time to recurrence were compared by Kaplan–Meier survival curves and log‐rank curve comparison testing. Significance was assessed atp < 0.05.

Results

Length of signs prior to admission did not differ between horses with unilateral and bilateral disease (p = 0.09), but there was a tendency for horses with bilateral disease to have clinical signs for longer. Age (p = 0.19) and hospitalization duration (p = 0.53) did not differ between horses undergoing unilateral versus bilateral procedures. Recurrence or failure to resolve signs was reported in 11/32 (34%) of unilateral and 0/5 bilateral cases (p = 0.07).

Conclusions

The bilateral single, caudally based sinusotomy approach may be considered to effectively treat bilateral paranasal sinus disease without concern for increased risk of life‐threatening complications or longer hospitalization duration than would be typical for unilateral sinusotomy procedures.
High morbidity associated with an outbreak of tick‐borne disease in a dairy herd, Cornwall
Authors: McFadzean Harriet , Johnson Nicholas , Phipps L. Paul , Hobbs Rebecca L.
Published: August 2021

In April 2020, animals in a herd of 180 dairy cows began displaying pyrexia, milk drop and condition loss. Some animals aborted while others developed anaemia and red‐coloured urine. Copious ticks were noted on affected animals. Blood smear examination performed on sick animals detected piroplasms within erythrocytes, and a pan‐piroplasm PCR and sequencing confirmed the presence of Babesia divergens. Further PCR testing detected Anaplasma phagocytophilum in some of the animals. In a number of animals, co‐infection with both pathogens was demonstrated. A range of control measures were implemented with varying levels of success, and clinical cases continued until winter housing of cows in November. A total of 61 animals were affected. The main contributory factor in this case was likely buying in of large numbers of naïve animals into an endemic tick area. Co‐infection also potentially increased severity of disease. The difficulties in controlling this outbreak are discussed.
Identification of new ethanol‐tolerant yeast strains with fermentation potential from central Patagonia
Authors: Villarreal Pablo , Quintrel Pablo A. , Olivares‐Muñoz Sebastián , Ruiz José J. , Nespolo Roberto F. , Cubillos Francisco A.
Published: August 2021

The quest for new wild yeasts has increasingly gained attention because of their potential ability to provide unique organoleptic characters to fermented beverages. In this sense, Patagonia offers a wide diversity of ethanol‐tolerant yeasts and stands out as a bioprospecting alternative. This study characterized the genetic and phenotypic diversity of yeast isolates obtained from Central Chilean Patagonia and analyzed their fermentation potential under different fermentative conditions. We recovered 125 colonies from Nothofagus spp. bark samples belonging to five yeast species: Saccharomyces eubayanus, Saccharomyces uvarum, Lachancea cidri, Kregervanrija delftensis, and Hanseniaspora valbyensis. High‐throughput microcultivation assays demonstrated the extensive phenotypic diversity among Patagonian isolates, where Saccharomyces spp and L. cidri isolates exhibited the most outstanding fitness scores across the conditions tested. Fermentation performance assays under wine, mead, and beer conditions demonstrated the specific potential of the different species for each particular beverage. Saccharomyces spp. were the only isolates able to ferment beer wort. Interestingly, we found that L. cidri is a novel candidate species to ferment wine and mead, exceeding the fermentation capacity of a commercial strain. Unlike commercial strains, we found that L. cidri does not require nutritional supplements for efficient mead fermentation. In addition, L. cidri produces succinic and acetic acids, providing a distinct profile to the final fermented product. This work demonstrates the importance of bioprospecting efforts in Patagonia to isolate novel wild yeast strains with extraordinary biotechnological potential for the fermentation industry.
Synthesis and Properties of 1‐(Dialkylstannyl)‐1,4‐diphenyl‐1,3‐butadiene Fused with a Dibenzobarrelene and the Corresponding Pentaorganostannate
Authors: Miyashita Yasuha , Nakata Norio , Ishii Akihiko
Published: August 2021

1‐(Dialkylstannyl)‐1,4‐diphenyl‐1,3‐butadiene derivatives that fuse with a dibenzobarrelene were synthesized by the reaction of the dilithium salt, prepared by the treatment of the corresponding tellurium analogue with BuLi, with R2SnCl2 (R=Me or Bu). When Me2SnCl2 was used, a Me−Bu exchange (Bu is from BuLi) was observed. The dimethyl‐, butylmethyl‐, and dibutylstannyl derivatives exhibit weak fluorescence in solution and the solid state. The dibutylstannyl derivative reacted with BuLi in THF to give a pentaorganostannate, which was characterized by means of 119Sn NMR and UV‐vis spectroscopies. Their optical properties were analyzed with TD‐DFT calculations. The first excitation of dialkylstannyl derivatives is assigned to the π‐π* excitation, and an intersystem crossing from the relaxed S1 state to a triplet state was suggested. The calculations show that the dark red color of the pentaorganostannate is ascribed to the excitation from the hypervalent Sn−C bonds (σ) to the π* orbital of the 1,4‐diphenyl‐1,3‐butadiene moiety.
Coordination Chemistry of Polynitriles, Part VIII. Thallium pentacyanocyclopentadienide
Authors: Blockhaus Tobias , Sünkel Karlheinz
Published: August 2021

The reaction of Tl(C5H5) with Ag[C5(CN)5] gives unexpectedly the title compound. Its crystal structure shows a dimeric [Tl2[C5(CN)2]2] forming the asymmetric unit. These units are connected to “layers” perpendicular to the a axis with formation of numerous 4‐, 9‐ and 14 membered rings, with the Tl ions using three nitrile functions from three different ligands. These layers are connected in a direction with each Tl ion coordinating to three more nitrile functions and additional weak delocalized η5 or η3 interactions with a cyclopentadienyl ring.
The frequency estimation for non‐conservative nonlinear oscillation
Authors: El‐Dib Yusry O.
Published: August 2021

Immediate frequency estimation of a damped nonlinear oscillator is very much needed in engineering. A developed He's frequency formula is derived to cover the damping nonlinear oscillator in the current work. The frequency due to the odd nonlinear damping force's presence is established immediately after converting the nonlinear oscillator to a linear damping model based on the conservative restoring force. A frequency of the non‐conservative system is performed. The analytical solution is compared with a numerical solution that shows the high accuracy of the estimated frequency.
Families of Bianchi modular symbols: critical base-change p-adic L-functions and p-adic Artin formalism
Authors: Barrera Salazar Daniel , Williams Chris
Published: August 2021

Let K be an imaginary quadratic field. In this article, we study the eigenvariety for $$\mathrm {GL}_2/K$$

GL
2

/
K

, proving an étaleness result for the weight map at non-critical classical points and a smoothness result at base-change classical points. We give three main applications of this; let f be a p-stabilised newform of weight $$k \ge 2$$

k
≥
2

without CM by K. Suppose f has finite slope at p and its base-change $$f_{/K}$$

f

/
K

to K is p-regular. Then: (1) We construct a two-variable p-adic L-function attached to $$f_{/K}$$

f

/
K

under assumptions on f that conjecturally always hold, in particular with no non-critical assumption on f/K. (2) We construct three-variable p-adic L-functions over the eigenvariety interpolating the p-adic L-functions of classical base-change Bianchi cusp forms. (3) We prove that these base-change p-adic L-functions satisfy a p-adic Artin formalism result, that is, they factorise in the same way as the classical L-function under Artin formalism.
A weak KAM approach to the periodic stationary Hartree equation
Authors: Zanelli L. , Mandreoli F. , Cardin F.
Published: August 2021

We present, through weak KAM theory, an investigation of the stationary Hartree equation in the periodic setting. More in details, we study the Mean Field asymptotics of quantum many body operators thanks to various integral identities providing the energy of the ground state and the minimum value of the Hartree functional. Finally, the ground state of the multiple-well case is studied in the semiclassical asymptotics thanks to the Agmon metric.
Associations between plasma kynurenines and cognitive function in individuals with normal glucose metabolism, prediabetes and type 2 diabetes: the Maastricht Study
Authors: Bakker Lieke , Ramakers Inez H. G. B. , van Boxtel Martin P. J. , Schram Miranda T. , Stehouwer Coen D. A. , van der Kallen Carla J. H. , Dagnelie Pieter C. , van Greevenbroek Marleen M. J. , Wesselius Anke , Midttun Øivind , Ueland Per M. , Verhey Frans R. J. , Eussen Simone J. P. M. , Köhler Sebastian
Published: August 2021

Aims/hypothesis

Studies investigating associations between kynurenines and cognitive function have generally been small, restricted to clinical samples or have found inconsistent results, and associations in the general adult population, and in individuals with type 2 diabetes in particular, are not clear. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate cross-sectional associations between plasma kynurenines and cognitive function in a cohort of middle-aged participants with normal glucose metabolism, prediabetes (defined as impaired fasting glucose and/or impaired glucose tolerance) and type 2 diabetes.

Methods

Plasma kynurenines were quantified in 2358 participants aged 61 ± 8 years. Cross-sectional associations of kynurenines with cognitive impairment and cognitive domain scores were investigated using logistic, multiple linear and restricted cubic spline regression analyses adjusted for several confounders.

Results

Effect modification by glucose metabolism status was found for several associations with cognitive impairment, hence analyses were stratified. In individuals with prediabetes, 3-hydroxykynurenine (OR per SD 0.59 [95% CI 0.37, 0.94]) and 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid (0.67 [0.47, 0.96]) were associated with lower odds of cognitive impairment after full adjustment. In individuals with type 2 diabetes, kynurenine (0.80 [0.66, 0.98]), 3-hydroxykynurenine (0.82 [0.68, 0.99]), kynurenic acid (0.81 [0.68, 0.96]), xanthurenic acid (0.73 [0.61, 0.87]) and 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid (0.73 [0.60, 0.87]) were all associated with lower odds of cognitive impairment. Kynurenic acid (β per SD 0.07 [95% CI 0.02, 0.13]) and xanthurenic acid (0.06 [0.01, 0.11]) were also associated with better executive function/attention. No associations were observed in individuals with normal glucose metabolism.

Conclusions/interpretation

Several kynurenines were cross-sectionally associated with lower odds of cognitive impairment and better cognitive functioning in type 2 diabetes, while less widespread associations were seen in prediabetes. Low levels of kynurenines might be involved in the pathway of type 2 diabetes and cognitive decline but this needs further studies.

Graphical abstract
Impact of Lymph Node Metastases Around the Superior Mesenteric Artery on Postoperative Outcomes of Pancreatic Head Cancer
Authors: Miyata Yoichi , Yonamine Naoto , Fujinuma Ibuki , Tsunenari Takazumi , Takihata Yasuhiro , Iwasaki Toshimitsu , Einama Takahiro , Tsujimoto Hironori , Ueno Hideki , Yamamoto Junji , Kishi Yoji
Published: August 2021

Background

The neural plexus and lymph nodes around the superior mesenteric artery (LN#14), are the most frequent sites involved by pancreatic head cancer. However the influence of metastases to LN#14 on patients’ prognosis has rarely been evaluated.

Methods

The patients who underwent pancreatectomy for pancreatic head cancer between January 2010 and December 2018 were selected. The patients with nodal metastases were classified into an LN#14 + or LN#14−group according to LN#14 metastasis. Clinical and pathological characteristics and prognosis were compared between the two groups.

Results

In total, 99 patients underwent pancreatectomy. Ninety‐four patients were positive for lymph node metastases and 14 and 80 were classified as LN#14 + and LN#14 − , respectively. Postoperative median overall survival (OS) of the LN#14 + and LN#14 − groups was 10.2 and 31.1 months, respectively (P < 0.001). Median OS of the LN#14 + group was worse than that of patients with ≥ 4 metastatic nodes in the LN#14 − group (n = 35, 24.7 months, P = 0.002). In multivariate analysis, LN#14 + (hazard ratio [HR] = 3.89, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.64–8.86) was one of the independent predictors of worse OS.

Conclusion

It might be feasible to recognize LN#14 metastases as an important prognostic factor independently from other regional lymph node metastases.
Resolving the interactions of ocean acidification and temperature on coral calcification media pH
Authors: Allison Nicola , Cole Catherine , Hintz Chris , Hintz Ken , Rae James , Finch Adrian
Published: August 2021

Ocean acidification typically reduces the calcification rates of massivePoritesspp. corals, but increasing seawater temperatures (below the stress and bleaching threshold) can offset this effect. Here, we use δ11B to reconstruct the pH of the calcification media (pHECM) used to precipitate the skeleton in poritid corals cultured over a range of seawater pCO2and at 25 °C and 28 °C. Increasing temperature had no significant effect on pHECMat high pCO2although corals increased their calcification rates. pHECMwas reduced at 28 °C compared to 25 °C at low seawater pCO2, although calcification rates remained constant. Increasing calcification rates could reflect the positive influence of temperature on aragonite precipitation rate, an increase in calcification media saturation state or a change in the concentration/behaviour of the skeletal organic matrix. The two temperatures utilized in this study were within the seasonal range at the coral collection site and do not represent a heat stress scenario. Increasing seawater temperatures may promote calcification in some corals in the future but are unlikely to benefit the majority of corals, which are already living close to their maximum thermal tolerance limits.
Patient-specific risk profile associated with early-onset primary osteoarthritis of the shoulder: is it really primary?
Authors: Plachel Fabian , Akgün Doruk , Imiolczyk Jan-Philipp , Minkus Marvin , Moroder Philipp
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Although age is considered to be the major risk factor of primary glenohumeral osteoarthritis (GOA), younger population may suffer from degenerative changes of the shoulder joint without evidence of any leading cause. The purpose of this study was to investigate the risk profile in young patients suffering from presumably primary GOA.

Methods

A consecutive group of 47 patients undergoing primary shoulder arthroplasty for early-onset GOA below the age of 60 years at time of surgery was retrospectively identified and prospectively evaluated. Patients with identifiable cause for GOA (secondary GOA) were excluded. The resulting 32 patients (mean age 52 ± 7 years; 17 male, 15 female) with primary GOA were matched by age (± 3 years) and gender to 32 healthy controls (mean age 53 ± 7 years; 17 male, 15 female). Demographic data and patient-related risk factors were assessed and compared among both groups to identify extrinsic risk factors for primary GOA. Patients were further subdivided into a group with concentric GOA (group A) and a group with eccentric GOA (group B) to perform a subgroup analysis.

Results

Patients had a significantly higher BMI (p = 0.017), were more likely to be smokers (p < 0.001) and to have systematic diseases such as hypertension (p = 0.007) and polyarthritis (p < 0.001) and a higher Shoulder Activity Level (SAL) (p < 0.001) when compared to healthy controls. Furthermore, group B had a significantly higher SAL not only compared to healthy controls but also to group A, including activities such as combat sport (p = 0.048) and weightlifting (p = 0.01).

Conclusions

Several patient-specific risk factors are associated with primary GOA in the young population, as well as highly shoulder demanding activities in the development of eccentric GOA. Consequently, a subset of young patients with eccentric primary GOA could in reality be secondary due to a muscular imbalance between internal and external rotators caused by improper weight training.

Level of evidence

III, Case–Control study
The role of psycho-oncologic screenings in the detection and evaluation of depression in head and neck cancer aftercare patients
Authors: Hadas Stefan , Huhn Maximilian , Rentrop Michael , Wollenberg Barbara , Combs Stephanie , Pigorsch Steffi , Pickhard Anja , Buchberger Anna Maria Stefanie
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Cancer and morbidity during a therapeutic regimen can result in somatic and psychiatric impairment. We have evaluated the need of appropriate psychological screening by analyzing a large collective of head and neck cancer (HNC) patients with particularly burdensome symptoms.

Methods

HNC-aftercare patients were asked about somatic and psychological symptoms by means of standardized questionnaires of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC Q30 and QLQ-H&N35). Patients with poor well-being values on the World Health Organization-5-Well-Being Index were screened for depression by using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview, and adequate treatment was initiated, if necessary.

Results

Our sample consisted of 453 HNC-aftercare patients (average age 64.5 years; 72.0% male; 28.0% female). 25.1% showed abnormalities based on their WHO-5 questionnaire. A current major depressive episode was observed in 8.5% of the total study group. Patients with lip and oral cavity tumors showed the highest depression prevalence (18.9%). Time since initial HNC diagnosis showed no clear trend with regard to the number of depression cases. 50.0% of patients with a current major depressive episode consented to receiving assistance and/or therapy. Within the total study population, the most burdensome symptoms were found to be “dry mouth” (48.3%), “trouble doing strenuous activities” (46.0%), “trouble taking a long walk” (38.5%), and “worry” (35.5%). Aftercare patients with a depression diagnosis tended to have heavier symptom burdens than people without major depression.

Conclusions

Despite the various cancer-related burdensome factors, prevalence levels of depression among the HNC-aftercare patients and the general population were similar. Nevertheless, since the number of diagnosed depression cases is high, the need for psychological treatment should be considered within the tumor collective. Furthermore, screening for depression should be implemented in clinical routines by using the appropriate standardized questionnaires.
Impact of excessive alcohol abuse on age prediction using the VISAGE enhanced tool for epigenetic age estimation in blood
Authors: Piniewska-Róg Danuta , Heidegger Antonia , Pośpiech Ewelina , Xavier Catarina , Pisarek Aleksandra , Jarosz Agata , Woźniak Anna , Wojtas Marta , Phillips Christopher , Kayser Manfred , Parson Walther , Branicki Wojciech ,   the VISAGE Consortium
Published: August 2021

DNA methylation-based clocks provide the most accurate age estimates with practical implications for clinical and forensic genetics. However, the effects of external factors that may influence the estimates are poorly studied. Here, we evaluated the effect of alcohol consumption on epigenetic age prediction in a cohort of extreme alcohol abusers. Blood samples from deceased alcohol abusers and age- and sex-matched controls were analyzed using the VISAGE enhanced tool for age prediction from somatic tissues that enables examination of 44 CpGs within eight age markers. Significantly altered DNA methylation was recorded for alcohol abusers in MIR29B2CHG. This resulted in a mean predicted age of 1.4 years higher compared to the controls and this trend increased in older individuals. The association of alcohol abuse with epigenetic age acceleration, as determined by the prediction analysis performed based on MIR29B2CHG, was small but significant (β = 0.190; P-value = 0.007). However, the observed alteration in DNA methylation of MIR29B2CHG had a non-significant effect on age estimation with the VISAGE age prediction model. The mean absolute error in the alcohol-abusing cohort was 3.1 years, compared to 3.3 years in the control group. At the same time, upregulation of MIR29B2CHG expression may have a biological function, which merits further studies.
18 F-FDG-PET/MRI in patients with Graves’ orbitopathy.
Authors: Weber Manuel , Deuschl Cornelius , Bechrakis Nikolaos , Umutlu Lale , Antoch Gerald , Eckstein Anja , Binse Ina , Oeverhaus Michael
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Currently, therapeutic management of patients with Graves’ orbitopathy (GO) relies on clinical assessments and MRI. However, monitoring of inflammation remains difficult since external inflammatory signs do not necessarily represent the orbital disease activity. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value of 18F-FDG-PET/MRI to assess the inflammation of GO patients.

Methods

Enrolled patients with new onset of GO underwent ophthalmological examinations to evaluate the activity (CAS) and severity of GO (NOSPECS), as well as an 18F-FDG-PET/MRI (Siemens Biograph mMR) with dual time point imaging (immediately post-injection and 60 min p.i.). A subset of PET parameters including maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax), metabolic target volume (MTV), and total lesion glycolysis (TLG) were obtained separately per eye and per extraocular eye muscle (EOM). EOM thickness was measured on the co-registered MRI.

Results

Of 14 enrolled patients, three showed mild, seven moderate-to-severe, and four sight-threatening GO. Patients with severe GO showed statistically significant higher TLG than patients with mild GO (p = 0.02) and higher MTV than patients with mild (p = 0.03) and moderate (p = 0.04) GO. Correlation between NOSPECS on one hand and MTV and TLG on the other was significant (R2 = 0.49–0.61).

Conclusion

TLG and MTV derived from FDG-PET appear to be good discriminators for severe vs. mild-to-moderate GO and show a significant correlation with NOSPECS. As expected, PET parameters of individual eye muscles were not correlated with associated eye motility, since fibrosis, and not inflammation, is mainly responsible for restricted motility. In conclusion, 18F-FDG-PET/MRI can be used for assessment of GO inflammation.
Association between number of parathyroid glands identified during total thyroidectomy and functional parathyroid preservation
Authors: Riordan Fiona , Murphy Matthew S. , Feeley Linda , Sheahan Patrick
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Systematic identification of all 4 parathyroid glands has been recommended during total thyroidectomy (TT); however, it is unclear whether this strategy necessarily translates into optimized functional parathyroid preservation. We wished to investigate the association between number of parathyroids identified intraoperatively during TT, and incidence of incidental parathyroidectomy, and postoperative hypoparathyroidism.

Methods

Retrospective review of prospectively maintained database of 511 consecutive patients undergoing TT at an academic teaching hospital. The association between number of parathyroid glands identified intraoperatively and incidence of biochemical hypocalcaemia (defined as any calcium < 2 mmol/L n first 48 h after surgery), symptomatic hypocalcaemia; permanent hypoparathyroidism (defined as any hypocalcaemia or need for calcium or vitamin D > 6 months after surgery), and incidental parathyroidectomy, was investigated. The association between number of parathyroid glands visualized and postoperative parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels was investigated in a subset of 454 patients.

Results

Patients in whom a greater number of parathyroids had been identified had a significantly higher incidence of biochemical and symptomatic hypocalcaemia, and significantly lower postoperative PTH levels, than patients with fewer glands identified. There were no significant differences in incidence of permanent hypoparathyroidism or incidental parathyroidectomy. On multivariate analysis, malignancy, Graves disease, and identification of 3–4 parathyroids were independent predictors of biochemical hypocalcaemia. For symptomatic hypocalcaemia, identification of 2–4 parathyroids, and identification of 3–4 parathyroids, were significant.

Conclusions

Systematic identification of as many parathyroid glands as possible during TT is not necessary for functional parathyroid preservation.