bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
White Blood Cells in Patients Treated with Programmed Cell Death-1 Inhibitors for Non-small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Sibille A. , Henket M. , Corhay J. L. , Alfieri R. , Louis R. , Duysinx B.
Published: September 2021

Purpose

To investigate whether eosinophils and other white blood cell subtypes could be used as response and prognostic markers to anti-Programmed cell Death-1 or anti-PD-Ligand-1 treatments in non-small cell lung cancer patients.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed data from the NSCLC patients consecutively treated at our hospital with a PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor in monotherapy for advanced disease. A total of 191 patients were evaluated at three time-points to investigate any relation between tumor response and WBC counts.

Results

Baseline WBC and subtypes did not differ according to the type of response seen under treatment. A higher relative eosinophil count (REC) correlated with more objective responses (p = 0.019 at t1 and p = 0.014 at t2; OR for progression = 0.54 and 0.53, respectively) independently of the smoking status, PD-L1 status, and immune-related toxicity (IRT). Higher REC was also associated with a longer duration of treatment (p = 0.0096). Baseline absolute neutrophil count was prognostic (p = 0.049). At t1 relative lymphocytes, absolute and relative neutrophils, and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio were prognostic (p = 0.044, p = 0.014, p = 0.0033, and p = 0.029, respectively).

Conclusion

Our results show that in NSCLC patients anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy induces an early increase only in blood eosinophils, more prominent in responding patients and independent of the smoking status, PD-L1 status, and IRT. Eosinophils are also associated with a longer duration of treatment. Furthermore, our data support a prognostic role of neutrophils, lymphocytes, and their ratio for NSCLC patients with advanced disease treated with PD(L)-1 blockade.
Response time and response time variability as indicators of response quality during static automated perimetry
Authors: Ungewiss Judith , Mallot Hanspeter A. , Schiefer Ulrich
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Perimetry is a both demanding and strenuous examination method that is often accompanied by signs of fatigue, leading to false responses and thus incorrect results. Therefore, it is essential to monitor the response quality. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the response time (RT) and its variability (RTV) as quality indicators during static automated perimetry.

Methods

Size III Goldmann stimuli (25.7′) were shown with the OCTOPUS 900 perimeter in four visual field locations with 13 different stimulus luminance levels (0.04–160 cd/m2). An increased rate of false-positive and false-negative catch trials (25% each) served to monitor the response quality simultaneously together with response time recording. Data evaluation was divided into global and individual analysis. For global analysis, the agreement indices (AI, agreement between time periods with an increased number of false responses to catch trials and time periods with pathological response to time-based values set into relation to time periods in which only one of the two criteria was considered pathological) and for individual analysis, the Spearman correlation coefficients were calculated. Ophthalmologically normal subjects with a visual acuity ≥ 0.8, and a maximum spherical/cylindrical ametropia of ± 8.00/2.50 dpt were included.

Results

Forty-eight subjects (18 males, 30 females, age 22–78 years) were examined. The total number of false responses to catch trials was (median/maximum): 6/82. RT and RTV were compared to the occurrence of incorrect responses to catch trials. The resulting individual Spearman correlation coefficients (median/maximum) were for RT: ρRT = 0.05/0.35 and for RTV: ρRTV = 0.27/0.61. The global analysis of the RTV showed agreement indices (median/maximum) of AIRTV = 0.14/0.47.

Conclusions

According to this study, an increased portion of catch trials is suitable as a verification tool for possible response quality indicators. The RTV is a promising parameter for indicating the response quality.
Age-related declines in muscle and respiratory function are proportionate to declines in performance in Master Track Cyclists
Authors: Ocana Pablo Duro , Darabseh Mohammad Z. , Ishihara Kengo , Aburub Aseel , Zambolin Fabio , Montgomery Gallin , Mills Richard , Scorcelletti Matteo , Cameron James , Ganse Bergita , Degens Hans , Bagley Liam
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Respiratory and musculoskeletal function decline with age, irrespective of physical activity levels. Previous work has suggested that the age-related rate of decline in function of these two systems might be similar, but it is not known to what extent each system contributes to decreasing performance in ageing master cyclists. Therefore, the purposes of this study are (1) whether the age-related rate of decline in respiratory function, respiratory muscle strength, muscle architecture, muscle function, haemoglobin concentration, haematocrit and performance in master cyclists is uniform and (2) which parameters contribute most to the reduction in performance with age.

Methods

Master cyclists were recruited during the Track Cycling Masters World Championship 2019 in Manchester. Respiratory function and respiratory muscle strength were determined using spirometry and a mouth pressure device, respectively. Muscle architecture was determined using ultrasonography, and muscle function by countermovement jump.

Results

Forced expiratory volume in the first second, forced vital capacity, fascicle length, muscle thickness, take-off velocity, jump power, jump power per body mass, handgrip strength, haemoglobin concentration and performance correlated negatively with age (p ≤ 0.043). The age-related rate of decline did not differ significantly between parameters (p = 0.124), but it was slower for haemoglobin concentration (p = 0.041). Take-off velocity was the major determinant of performance in 200, 500 and 2000 m track cycling disciplines (R2adj = 0.675, 0.786 and 0.769, respectively; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Age-related decline in respiratory and muscle system is accompanied by a similar rate of decline in performance. The major contribution to the age-related decline of performance is reduced muscle function, specifically take-off velocity.
Finnish Version of the Eating Assessment Tool (F-EAT-10): A Valid and Reliable Patient-reported Outcome Measure for Dysphagia Evaluation
Authors: Järvenpää Pia , Kuuskoski Jonna , Pietarinen Petra , Markkanen-Leppänen Mari , Freiberg Hanna , Ruuskanen Miia , Rekola Jami , Ilmarinen Taru , Kinnari Teemu J. , Autio Timo J. , Penttilä Elina , Muttilainen Marika S. , Laaksonen Annika , Oksanen Lotta , Geneid Ahmed , Aaltonen Leena-Maija
Published: September 2021

Our aim was to validate a Finnish version of the Eating Assessment Tool (F-EAT-10) for clinical use and to test its reliability and validity in a multicenter nationwide study. Normative data were acquired from 180 non-dysphagic participants (median age 57.0 years, 62.2% female). Dysphagia patients (n = 117, median age 69.7 years, 53.0% female) referred to fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) completed F-EAT-10 before the examination and after 2 weeks. Patients underwent the 100-ml water swallow test (WST) and FEES was evaluated using the following three scales: the Yale Pharyngeal Residue Severity Rating Scale, Penetration-Aspiration Scale, and the Dysphagia Outcome Severity Scale. An operative cohort of 19 patients (median age 75.8 years, 57.9% female) underwent an endoscopic operation on Zenker’s diverticulum, tight cricopharyngeal muscle diagnosed in videofluorography, or both. Patients completed the F-EAT-10 preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively. The cut-off score for controls was < 3 (sensitivity 94.0%, specificity 96.1%) suggesting that ≥ 3 is abnormal. Re-questionnaires for test–retest reliability analysis were available from 92 FEES patients and 123 controls. The intraclass correlation coefficient was excellent for the total F-EAT-10 score (0.93, 95% confidence interval 0.91–0.95). Pearson correlation coefficients were strong (p < 0.001) for each of the questions and the total score. Internal consistency as assessed by Cronbach’s alpha was excellent (0.95). Some correlations between findings in FEES and 100-ml WST with F-EAT-10 were observed. The change in subjective symptoms of operative patients paralleled the change in F-EAT-10. F-EAT-10 is a reliable, valid, and symptom-specific patient-reported outcome measure for assessing dysphagia among Finnish speakers.
Increasing the safety against scuffing of additive manufactured gear wheels by internal cooling channels
Authors: Dennig Hans-Jörg , Zumofen Livia , Stierli Daniel , Kirchheim Andreas , Winterberg Simon
Published: September 2021

The layer-by-layer principle of the additive manufacturing (AM) technology of Laser-Powder-Bed-Fusion (LPBF) creates new opportunities in the design and manufacturing of efficient gear components. For example, integrating a cooling system can increase the safety against scuffing or reduce the amount of required lubrication and thus the splashing losses. Quenched and tempered steels or case-hardened steels are commonly used in the fabrication of gear components. However, the availability of these alloys for LPBF processing is still limited. The development of suitable LPBF metal gears (with a Gear Research Centre (FZG) type A geometry) out of quenched and tempered 30CrNiMo8 steel with internal cooling channels shows the possibility of significantly increasing the safety factor against scuffing. This work includes the development of a suitable cooling strategy, material development, the setup of a suitable test infrastructure and the analysis of the LPBF gears tested for scuffing.
Weighted stochastic block model
Authors: Ng Tin Lok James , Murphy Thomas Brendan
Published: September 2021

We propose a weighted stochastic block model (WSBM) which extends the stochastic block model to the important case in which edges are weighted. We address the parameter estimation of the WSBM by use of maximum likelihood and variational approaches, and establish the consistency of these estimators. The problem of choosing the number of classes in a WSBM is addressed. The proposed model is applied to simulated data and an illustrative data set.
Entanglement and U(D)-spin squeezing in symmetric multi-quDit systems and applications to quantum phase transitions in Lipkin–Meshkov–Glick D-level atom models
Authors: Calixto Manuel , Mayorgas Alberto , Guerrero Julio
Published: September 2021

Collective spin operators for symmetric multi-quDit (namely identical D-level atom) systems generate a U(D) symmetry. We explore generalizations to arbitrary D of SU(2)-spin coherent states and their adaptation to parity (multi-component Schrödinger cats), together with multi-mode extensions of NOON states. We write level, one- and two-quDit reduced density matrices of symmetric N-quDit states, expressed in the last two cases in terms of collective U(D)-spin operator expectation values. Then, we evaluate level and particle entanglement for symmetric multi-quDit states with linear and von Neumann entropies of the corresponding reduced density matrices. In particular, we analyze the numerical and variational ground state of Lipkin–Meshkov–Glick models of 3-level identical atoms. We also propose an extension of the concept of SU(2)-spin squeezing to SU(D) and relate it to pairwise D-level atom entanglement. Squeezing parameters and entanglement entropies are good markers that characterize the different quantum phases, and their corresponding critical points, that take place in these interacting D-level atom models.
Necroptosis increases with age in the brain and contributes to age-related neuroinflammation
Authors: Thadathil Nidheesh , Nicklas Evan H. , Mohammed Sabira , Lewis Tommy L. , Richardson Arlan , Deepa Sathyaseelan S.
Published: September 2021

Chronic inflammation of the central nervous system (CNS), termed neuroinflammation, is a hallmark of aging and a proposed mediator of cognitive decline associated with aging. Neuroinflammation is characterized by the persistent activation of microglia, the innate immune cells of the CNS, with damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) being one of the well-known activators of microglia. Because necroptosis is a cell death pathway that induces inflammation through the release of DAMPs, we hypothesized that an age-associated increase in necroptosis contributes to increased neuroinflammation with age. The marker of necroptosis, phosphorylated form of MLKL (P-MLKL), and kinases in the necroptosis pathway (RIPK1, RIPK3, and MLKL) showed a region-specific increase in the brain with age, specifically in the cortex layer V and the CA3 region of the hippocampus of mice. Similarly, MLKL-oligomers, which cause membrane binding and permeabilization, were significantly increased in the cortex and hippocampus of old mice relative to young mice. Nearly 70 to 80% of P-MLKL immunoreactivity was localized to neurons and less than 10% was localized to microglia, whereas no P-MLKL was detected in astrocytes. P-MLKL expression in neurons was detected in the soma, not in the processes. Blocking necroptosis using Mlkl−/− mice reduced markers of neuroinflammation (Iba-1 and GFAP) in the brains of old mice, and short-term treatment with the necroptosis inhibitor, necrostatin-1s, reduced expression of proinflammatory cytokines, IL-6 and IL-1β, in the hippocampus of old mice. Thus, our data demonstrate for the first time that brain necroptosis increases with age and contributes to age-related neuroinflammation in mice.
Paternal environmental exposure-induced spermatozoal small noncoding RNA alteration meditates the intergenerational epigenetic inheritance of multiple diseases
Authors: Yin Xin , Anwar Azhar , Wang Yanbo , Hu Huanhuan , Liang Gaoli , Zhang Chenyu
Published: September 2021

Studies of human and mammalian have revealed that environmental exposure can affect paternal health conditions as well as those of the offspring. However, studies that explore the mechanisms that meditate this transmission are rare. Recently, small noncoding RNAs (sncRNAs) in sperm have seemed crucial to this transmission due to their alteration in sperm in response to environmental exposure, and the methodology of microinjection of isolated total RNA or sncRNAs or synthetically identified sncRNAs gradually lifted the veil of sncRNA regulation during intergenerational inheritance along the male line. Hence, by reviewing relevant literature, this study intends to answer the following research concepts: (1) paternal environmental factors that can be passed on to offspring and are attributed to spermatozoal sncRNAs, (2) potential role of paternal spermatozoal sncRNAs during the intergenerational inheritance process, and (3) the potential mechanism by which spermatozoal sncRNAs meditate intergenerational inheritance. In summary, increased attention highlights the hidden wonder of spermatozoal sncRNAs during intergenerational inheritance. Therefore, in the future, more studies should focus on the origin of RNA alteration, the target of RNA regulation, and how sncRNA regulation during embryonic development can be sustained even in adult offspring.
COVID-19 and Organized Crime: Strategies employed by criminal groups to increase their profits and power in the first months of the pandemic
Authors: Aziani Alberto , Bertoni Gianluca A. , Jofre Maria , Riccardi Michele
Published: September 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has created new opportunities for organized criminal groups and confronted them with new challenges. Analysis of how these groups have reacted to the pandemic yields better understanding of how they work and enables the devising of more effective counter-strategies. To this end, we identified illustrative cases regarding the provision of illegal governance and infiltration of the legal economy by conducting a systematic content analysis of international media articles and institutional reports published during the first eight months after the outbreak of the pandemic (January to August 2020). These cases were further analyzed in order to cluster the behavior of criminal groups in response to the COVID-19 emergency, and the means by which they tried to exploit the pandemic to strengthen their political and economic power. We found that different governance-type criminal groups proposed themselves as institutions able to mitigate the burdens imposed by the pandemic by providing support to people in need and enforcing social-distancing measures. Further, identified cases did not provide evidence of groups devoted to the provision of illicit services and goods assuming any governance role. In this respect, the available evidence supports previous knowledge about organized crime. Cases of misappropriation of public funds and organized crime infiltration of the legal economy seem less common, at least in the first phase of the pandemic. The wholesale distribution of pharmaceuticals and medicines has been the sector targeted the most.
Visual analytics for nonlinear programming in robot motion planning
Authors: Hägele David , Abdelaal Moataz , Oguz Ozgur S. , Toussaint Marc , Weiskopf Daniel
Published: September 2021

Nonlinear programming is a complex methodology where a problem is mathematically expressed in terms of optimality while imposing constraints on feasibility. Such problems are formulated by humans and solved by optimization algorithms. We support domain experts in their challenging tasks of understanding and troubleshooting optimization runs of intricate and high-dimensional nonlinear programs through a visual analytics system. The system was designed for our collaborators’ robot motion planning problems, but is domain agnostic in most parts of the visualizations. It allows for an exploration of the iterative solving process of a nonlinear program through several linked views of the computational process. We give insights into this design study, demonstrate our system for selected real-world cases, and discuss the extension of visualization and visual analytics methods for nonlinear programming.

Graphic abstract
Stabilization of the vertical take-off of a rigid flying wing for an airborne wind energy system
Authors: Fuest H. , Duda D. F. , Islam T. , Ostermann T. , Moormann D.
Published: September 2021

Airborne wind energy is an emerging technology that harvests wind energy with flight systems connected via a tether to the ground. In the project “EnerGlider”, a flying wing is meant to fly fully automated by its own control units. This contribution discusses the challenges to control and trim this flying wing during vertical take-off and landing under the influence of a horizontal wind velocity. High wind velocities can lead to unstable and untrimmed states concerning the longitudinal motion of the flying wing. The paper analyzes the influence of design modifications of thrust vector and elevon area to enhance the flight envelope of the trimmed states to higher wind velocities. Besides, the tether force as additional control unit is considered for strong wind forces. It is demonstrated that a tether force acting behind the center of gravity can significantly enhance the robustness of the flight system concerning wind velocity. Moreover, the unstable flight states emerging during vertical take-off and landing can be stabilized with a flight control.
Trauma, alcohol and drugs misuse in car and motorcycle drivers: a prevalence study in a level one trauma center
Authors: Renzi Federica , Reitano Elisa , Franca Davanzo , Chiara Osvaldo , Cimbanassi Stefania
Published: September 2021

Alcohol and drugs misuse represents an important social problem. There is no agreement about influence of ethanol and drugs on trauma severity and clinical course. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of alcohol and drugs abuse on road related trauma managed to our Level I Trauma Center. Data of 1067 car or motorcycle drivers consecutively admitted in a 5 years period were retrospectively analyzed. The sample was divided into two groups: patients with alcohol and/or drugs misuse and patients without detectable plasmatic levels or not screened because no clinical suspicion of these substance. Demographic data, mechanism of trauma, severity of injury, daily and season time of trauma distribution, alcohol and drugs levels and outcomes were retrieved. Alcohol or drugs misuse were detected in 242 patients. Heavy alcohols levels were the 62.3%. Among drugs cannabis was the most detected substance. These patients were significantly younger than the overall study population (p = 0.011), with a higher ISS (p = 0.012) a lower RTS (p = 0.047), a lower GCS (p = 0.005) and an higher head injuries severity (p = 0.030). Regarding time distribution, Saturday was the day with the highest percentage of trauma associated with substance misuse (21%). Alcohol/drugs misuse plays a very important role in the epidemiology of road related trauma. Despite the higher severity of trauma scores and the higher incidence of severe head injuries in patients with alcohol or drugs consumption, there were no effects of this substances on mortality of injured patients involved in road crashes.
Recommendations and Nutritional Considerations for Female Athletes: Health and Performance
Authors: Holtzman Bryan , Ackerman Kathryn E.
Published: September 2021

Optimal nutrition is an important aspect of an athlete’s preparation to achieve optimal health and performance. While general concepts about micro- and macronutrients and timing of food and fluids are addressed in sports science, rarely are the specific effects of women’s physiology on energy and fluid needs highly considered in research or clinical practice. Women differ from men not only in size, but in body composition and hormonal milieu, and also differ from one another. Their monthly hormonal cycles, with fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone, have varying effects on metabolism and fluid retention. Such cycles can change from month to month, can be suppressed with exogenous hormones, and may even be manipulated to capitalize on ideal timing for performance. But before such physiology can be manipulated, its relationship with nutrition and performance must be understood. This review will address general concepts regarding substrate metabolism in women versus men, common menstrual patterns of female athletes, nutrient and hydration needs during different phases of the menstrual cycle, and health and performance issues related to menstrual cycle disruption. We will discuss up-to-date recommendations for fueling female athletes, describe areas that require further exploration, and address methodological considerations to inform future work in this important area.
Dynamics of Glyphosate and Aminomethylphosphonic Acid in Soil Under Conventional and Conservation Tillage
Authors: Carretta Laura , Cardinali Alessandra , Onofri Andrea , Masin Roberta , Zanin Giuseppe
Published: September 2021

This study investigates the adsorption and dissipation of glyphosate and the formation/dissipation of AMPA in non-tilled (NT) and conventionally tilled (CT) soil at 0–5 and 5–20 cm depth. Glyphosate adsorption was mainly related to the different NT and CT soil properties (clay and amorphous Al oxides), whereas an effect of the soil management could not be identified. Glyphosate dissipation was initially fast, and it slowed down later. The initial glyphosate concentration in NT soil at 0–5 cm was significantly lower than the dose applied due to the interception by the weeds and crop residues. AMPA began to form early after treatment and persisted longer than glyphosate. The DT50 range was 8–18 days for glyphosate and 99–250 days for AMPA. Longer glyphosate and AMPA DT50 were observed in NT soil compared to CT soil but, for glyphosate, the difference was significant only at 5–20 cm. Higher glyphosate and AMPA concentrations were detected in NT than in CT soil at the end of the study at 0–5 cm. The differences in glyphosate and AMPA DT50 and persistence were mainly attributable to the influence of different NT and CT soil characteristics. However, other factors could have contributed to the different glyphosate and AMPA dynamics between the soils, like glyphosate wash-off from crop residues on NT soil with the rainfall, the delayed glyphosate return to the soil by weed root exudation or weeds decomposition, and the NT soil compaction which may have reduced the microbial degradation of glyphosate at low concentrations.

Graphic abstract
Map Symbols in Video Games: the Example of “Valheim”
Authors: Horbiński Tymoteusz , Zagata Krzysztof
Published: September 2021

The main focus of this article is to examine the interpretation of twelve cartographic symbols on the map in Valheim. The authors set the research goal: to investigate how players and non-players interpret the symbols. The Valheim video game, which was released in 2021, is a survival game set in an open world. The authors noticed that game developers did not provide a direct explanation of the map symbols used, which could result in a different interpretation and experience of the game. The authors adopted a survey on the LimeSurvey platform as research methodology. This survey tool was used to gather information on experiences and interpretations of map symbols among a diverse group of respondents. Using online forums allowed one to disseminate the survey to a large audience of players from all over the world. Then, using the categorisation method for individual questions, a large database of respondents’ answers was created. Through the analysis, the authors checked the interpretation of symbols and presented the results in the form of graphs. Then, using statistical tests, they analysed the relationship between individual symbols. The study reveals that there are intergroup differences in responses to symbols directly related to the game. With more complicated symbols that did not emphasise an unambiguous answer, both groups of respondents had a problem with indicating the meaning of the symbol. For future research, it is worth continuing research on the interpretation of various map symbols not only in games, but also in all cartographic products.
The effect of different hydration media on magnesia
Authors: von Hoessle Friedrich , Farid Reham , Mohamed Mayar , Hammouda Rawia M. , Kühn Fritz E. , Bassioni Ghada
Published: September 2021

This paper discusses the rate of hydration of magnesia (CCM1 and CCM2) during the formation of magnesium hydroxide with magnesium acetate and distilled water. The influence of magnesium acetate and the reactivity of the two types of caustic calcined magnesia were studied by thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, mass spectrometry, particle size detection and pH. Also, both citric acid and acetic acid test were done to measure the reactivity of magnesium oxide powder. The results indicate that the hydration rate of both oxides in magnesium acetate system are vigorously exothermic compared to the water system. The study shows mechanistically that magnesium acetate enhanced the degree of hydration of magnesium oxide due to the presence of acetate ions and Mg2+ ions when it compared to water. Mathematical models confirm the findings.
The modified mini-open Maffulli's technique for repairing open Achilles tendon laceration using fiber wires with calcaneal fixation. A prospective case series of 14 patients
Authors: Nguyen Luong Van
Published: September 2021

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Open Achilles tendon laceration was managed surgically by wound irrigation, debridement and Achilles tendon repair. The poor vascularization at the midsection of Achilles tendon and surrounding skin, extensile open approaches were factors, that contributed to higher complication rate of wound healing and infection. We had not seen a report of minimal invasive repair techniques for treatment of open Achilles tendon injury.

Material and methods:

Between January 2018 and May 2020, 14 patients with open Achilles tendon laceration had been enrolled in the study and underwent the modified Maffulli's procedure at the Central Military Hospital 108. The characteristics of the patients, ATRS score AOFAS score and complications were recorded.

Results:

No wound infection was encountered in our series. The range of ankle movement was restored in all patients. After one year post-operatively, the ATRS score was 92.2 ± 1.5 (range: 90–96), and AOFAS score was 97.4 ± 1.8 (range: 92–100). All patients could return to their work and their light sporting activities at the time of 16.7 ± 2.5 weeks (range, 14–20) and 19.8 ± 4.6 weeks (range: 17–25) postoperatively, respectively. 14 out of 14 patients were able to perform single heel raise.

Conclusion:

We showed the modified Maffulli's technique using fiber wire with calcaneal fixation for repairing open Achilles tendon laceration to be a safe and reliable method without increasing financial cost and specially designed tools.

Level of evidence:

Level IV, a prospective case series study.

Highlights
Glucose Tolerance after Pancreatectomy: A Prospective Observational Follow-Up Study of Pancreaticoduodenectomy and Distal Pancreatectomy
Authors: Ishida Jun , Toyama Hirochika , Matsumoto Ippei , Shirakawa Sachiyo , Terai Sachio , Yamashita Hironori , Yanagimoto Hiroaki , Asari Sadaki , Kido Masahiro , Fukumoto Takumi
Published: September 2021

Background

Effects of pancreatectomy on glucose tolerance have not been clarified, and evidence regarding the difference in postoperative glucose tolerance between pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) and distal pancreatectomy (DP) is lacking.

Study design

This prospective, single-center observational study analyzed 40 patients undergoing PD and 29 patients undergoing DP (Clinical trial registry number UMIN000008122). Glucose tolerance, including insulin secretion (Δ C-peptide immunoreactivity, ΔCPR) and insulin resistance (homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance, HOMA-IR) were assessed before and 1 month after pancreatectomy using the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and glucagon stimulation test. We assessed long-term hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels in patients, with a follow-up time of 3 years.

Results

Percentages of patients diagnosed with abnormal OGTT decreased after PD (from 12 [30%] to 7 [17.5%] of 40 patients, p = 0.096); however, they increased after DP (from 4 [13.8%] to 8 [27.6%] of 29 patients, p = 0.103), although the changes were not statistically significant. ΔCPR decreased after both PD (from 3.2 to 1.0 ng/mL, p < 0.001) and DP (from 3.3 to 1.8 ng/mL, p < 0.001). HOMA-IR decreased after PD (from 1.10 to 0.68, p < 0.001), but did not change after DP (1.10 and 1.07, p = 0.42). Median HbA1c level was higher after DP than after PD for up to 3 years, but the differences were not statistically significant.

Conclusions

In comparisons of pre- and 1 month post-pancreatectomy data, glucose tolerance showed improvement after PD, whereas it worsened after DP. Insulin secretion decreased after both PD and DP. Insulin resistance improved after PD, but did not change after DP. Further studies are warranted to clarify mechanisms of improved insulin resistance after PD.

Visual Abstract
Heterogeneous Effects of Agricultural Technical Assistance in Colombia
Authors: Torres Franco Nicolás Arturo , Dávalos Eleonora , Morales Leonardo Fabio
Published: September 2021

Small family farms account for 72% of the farms in the world. Most of these farms, in developing countries, face labor productivity gaps. One of the strategies to increase agricultural productivity focuses on implementing technical assistance programs. Using agriculture microdata, we estimate the marginal treatment effect of receiving technical assistance services. We find that technical assistance generates heterogeneous effects. On average, agricultural units receiving technical assistance increased their agricultural production by 50.4%. However, there is important heterogeneity of technical assistance’s effects across the production units’ unobserved and observed characteristics.
Potential of surrogate modelling in compressor casing design focussing on rapid tip clearance assessments
Authors: Schmidt T. , Gümmer V. , Konle M.
Published: September 2021

Losses induced by tip clearance limit decisive improvements in the system efficiency and aerodynamic operational stability of aero-engine axial compressors. The tendency towards even lower blade heights to compensate for higher fluid densities aggravates their influence. Generally, it is emphasised that the tip clearance should be minimised but remain large enough to prevent collisions between the blade tip and the casing throughout the entire mission. The present work concentrates on the development of a preliminary aero-engine axial compressor casing design methodology involving meta-modelling techniques. Previous research work at the Institute for Turbomachinery and Flight Propulsion resulted in a Two-Dimensional (2D) axisymmetric finite element model for a generic multi-stage high-pressure axial compressor casing. Subsequent sensitivity studies led to the identification of significant parameters that are important for fine-tuning the tip clearance via specific flange design. This work is devoted to an exploration of the potential of surrogate modelling in preliminary compressor casing design with respect to rapid tip clearance assessments and its corresponding precision in comparison with finite element results. Reputed as data-driven mathematical approximation models and conceived for inexpensive numerical simulation result reproduction, surrogate models show even greater capacity when linked with extensive design space exploration and optimisation algorithms.

Compared with high-fidelity finite element simulations, the reductions obtained in computational time when using surrogate models amount to 99.9%. Validated via statistical methods and dependent on the size of the training database, the precision of surrogate models can reach down to the range of manufacturing tolerances. Subsequent inclusion of such surrogate models in a parametric optimisation process for tip clearance minimisation rapidly returned adaptions of the geometric design variables.
The International Public: A Farewell to Functions in International Law
Authors: Besson Samantha
Published: September 2021

Frédéric Mégret's extremely rich and interesting article implicates a wide range of issues. Luckily, a lot has already been written about some of them elsewhere. In any case, the limited scope of this essay precludes engaging with them all again here. What it will do instead is explore ways of contributing further to the article's important, timely and, I would like to argue, providential project, which is to reflect over and develop the publicness of the international legal order. I will present comments on three dimensions of that project: the language, the scope, and the institution of what one may refer to as “the international public.” My claim is that, to succeed, the article's argument should move away from the functional approach to publicness, embrace public institutions of international law other than states, and focus on the institutional dimension of international public law.
THE ASSYRIAN DISTANZANGABEN IN RELATION TO THE REGNAL YEARS RECORDED IN THE ASSYRIAN KING LIST
Authors: Mahieu Bieke
Published: September 2021

Several so-called Distanzangaben (lit. “designations of distance”), found in Assyrian inscriptions, record time spans between events (mainly building activities) of Assyrian rulers. Such chronological data have mostly been studied as entities (for purposes of absolute chronology), and only rarely with regard to their composition. While some of the Distanzangaben can be explained as mere summations of the regnal years recorded in the Assyrian King List, others remain enigmatic. The present article attempts to trace the composition of every Distanzangabe. For those compiled by Tiglath-pileser I and Esarhaddon, ideological purposes seem to be implied. The one compiled by Sennacherib sheds light on the chronology of Tiglath-pileser I's campaigns.
GAMES AND INDUCTION ON REALS
Authors: AGUILERA J. P. , WELCH P. D.
Published: September 2021

It is shown that the determinacy of
$G_{\delta \sigma }$
games of length
$\omega ^2$
is equivalent to the existence of a transitive model of
${\mathsf {KP}} + {\mathsf {AD}} + \Pi _1\textrm {-MI}_{\mathbb {R}}$
containing
$\mathbb {R}$
. Here,
$\Pi _1\textrm {-MI}_{\mathbb {R}}$
is the axiom asserting that every monotone
$\Pi _1$
operator on the real numbers has an inductive fixpoint.
RECONSTRUCTION OF NON--CATEGORICAL THEORIES
Authors: BEN YAACOV ITAÏ
Published: September 2021

We generalise the correspondence between
$\aleph _0$
-categorical theories and their automorphism groups to arbitrary complete theories in classical logic, and to some theories (including, in particular, all
$\aleph _0$
-categorical ones) in continuous logic.
The Xlendi Bay shipwreck (Gozo, Malta): a petrographic and typological study of an archaic ceramic cargo
Authors: Anastasi Maxine , Capelli Claudio , Gambin Timmy , Sourisseau Jean-Christophe
Published: September 2021

An underwater survey off the southwest coast of the island of Gozo revealed a well-preserved shipwreck 110 m below the surface. The site belonged to a previously unknown wreck with a cargo of volcanic millstones and ceramic amphorae dating to the 7th century BC. This article presents the first results of thin-section analysis taken from the pottery objects, and concludes that the ship was carrying a heterogeneous cargo of amphora-borne goods from the Maltese islands, North Tunisia, and possibly Sicily, making it the earliest, known shipwreck in the central Mediterranean; and provides the earliest evidence for Maltese external trade in the central Mediterranean.
Deprovincializing Racial Capitalism: John Crawfurd and Settler Colonialism in India
Authors: INCE ONUR ULAS
Published: September 2021

Recent literature on racial capitalism has overwhelmingly focused on the Atlantic settler-slave formation, sidelining the history of European imperialism in Asia. This article addresses this blind spot by recovering the aborted project of British settler colonialism in India through the writings of its most prominent advocate, John Crawfurd. It is argued that Crawfurd’s vision of a liberal empire in India rejected slavery and indigenous dispossession yet remained deeply racialized in its conception of capital, labor, and value. Crawfurd elaborated a “capital theory of race,” which derived racial categories from a civilizational spectrum keyed to the capitalist organization of production. His proposals accordingly revamped the conventional terms of colonization by representing India as overstocked with labor but vacant of capital and skill that only European settlers could provide. The article concludes with the broader implications of a transimperial analytic framework for writing connected histories of racial capitalism and settler colonialism.
Study of metabolomics in selenium deprived Przewalski’s Gazelle (Procapra przewalskii)
Authors: Wu Ting , He Jian , Shen Xiaoyun
Published: September 2021

To understand why Procapra przewalskii does not show the same white myopathy as sheep in Se-deficient regions and to provide reference for feeding nutrition level of artificial population and selection of wild reintroduction areas in the later period, a Se-deficient model was established. The mineral elements content, physiological and biochemical parameters in blood and serum metabonomics were determined. In the Se-deficient group compared with the control group, the Se content was highly significantly lower (P < 0·01), and the Cu content was significantly higher (P < 0·05). The activity of glutathione peroxidase was significantly lower (P < 0·05), but total superoxide dismutase was significantly higher (P < 0·05). By matching the mass spectrum data of compounds with the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG database), eighty-six types of differential metabolites in the serum were identified. The main metabolic pathways included secondary bile acid biosynthesis, biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids and pyrimidine metabolism. Further analysis showed that there were seven different metabolites in pyrimidine metabolism pathway between the two groups. And there was no significant difference in erythrocyte, Hb and total antioxidant capacity between the two groups (P > 0·05). The above results showed that the differential metabolism of substances exhibited complementary functions, thus alleviating some adverse effects and resulting normal activities of P. przewalskii can be carried out under the condition of dietary Se content lower than 0·05 mg/kg.
HIV testing and ethnicity among adolescent girls and young women aged 15–24 years in Ghana: what really matters?
Authors: Nwaozuru Ucheoma , Shato Thembekile , Obiezu-Umeh Chisom , Uzoaru Florida , Mason Stacey , Gyamfi Joyce , Iwelunmor Juliet
Published: September 2021

Despite the high prevalence of HIV among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) aged 15–24 years in Ghana, HIV testing remains low among this population. The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between ethnicity and HIV testing among AGYW in Ghana. The 2014 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey data were used and analyses were restricted to 3325 female participants aged 15–24 years. Chi-squared tests and a logistic regression model were used to assess the association between ethnicity and HIV testing. Furthermore, the PEN-3 cultural model informed the conceptual framework that explained the relationship between ethnicity and HIV testing behaviour. Results from the bivariate analysis showed an association between ethnicity and HIV testing among AGYW (p<0.05). However, when controlling for other behavioural and socioeconomic determinants of HIV testing in the logistic regression, there was no association between ethnicity and HIV testing. The significant predictors of HIV testing were marital status, having multiple sexual partners, and condom use. The AGYW who were married (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 4.56, CI: 3.46–6.08) or previously married (aOR = 4.30, CI: 2.00–9.23) were more likely to test for HIV compared with those who were never married. Having multiple sexual partners (aOR = 0.41, CI: 0.20–0.85) and condom use (aOR = 0.56, CI: 0.38–0.84) were associated with lower odds of HIV testing. The results provide evidence that ethnicity is not associated with HIV testing among AGYW in Ghana, as the bivariate association was attenuated when other behavioural and socioeconomic determinants of HIV testing were accounted for. These findings highlight the importance of considering individual-level factors, community-level factors, and other socio-cultural factors as they really matter in the development of HIV prevention programmes for adolescent girls and young women in Ghana.
ALGORITHM TO CONSTRUCT INTEGRO SPLINES
Authors: MIJIDDORJ R. , ZHANLAV T.
Published: September 2021

We study some properties of integro splines. Using these properties, we design an algorithm to construct splines$S_{m+1}(x)$of neighbouring degrees to the given spline$S_m(x)$with degreem. A local integro-sextic spline is constructed with the proposed algorithm. The local integro splines work efficiently, that is, they have low computational complexity, and they are effective for use in real time. The construction of nonlocal integro splines usually leads to solving a system of linear equations with band matrices, which yields high computational costs.
Health system challenges affecting falls prevention in persons living with HIV: perspectives from physiotherapists in four sub-Saharan regions
Authors: Charumbira Maria Y. , Berner Karina , Louw Quinette A.
Published: September 2021

Aim:

The aim of this study was to explore the perspectives of physiotherapists in four selected regions of sub-Saharan Africa regarding health system challenges impacting the integration of physiotherapy-led falls prevention services in the primary care of persons living with HIV (PLWH).

Background:

Falls may pose a significant problem among younger PLWH in low- and middle-income countries. Physiotherapists’ role in optimising function and quality of life can do much in the prevention of falls in PLWH and reducing the harm that results. However, falls prevention strategies have not been implemented effectively especially in primary health care settings in sub-Saharan Africa. Physiotherapists’ account of the health system challenges they encounter may provide insights into potential strategies that may be considered in optimising fall prevention for PLWH in poorly resourced settings.

Methods:

A descriptive qualitative study was conducted in selected urban districts in the capital cities of four sub-Saharan African countries. In-depth interviews were conducted with 21 purposively selected physiotherapists involved in the primary care of PLWH. Audio recordings of interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using deductive thematic content analysis.

Findings:

The main results are presented in the theme ‘Health care system challenges’ and in nine categories informed by the WHO health system framework: lack of policies and clinical practice guidelines, shortage/Inaccessible falls prevention services, inadequate human resource, physiotherapists not adequately equipped in falls prevention, inaccessible/No facilities for BMD measurement, inefficient data capturing systems, lack of evidence regarding falls among PLWH, unclear physiotherapy role descriptions, inefficient referral system. Physiotherapists highlighted the need for more information and research regarding fall prevention for PLWH, promote their role in the primary care of PLWH and adopt a patient-centred approach to fall prevention.
Revisiting the legitimacy question of the Nigerian 1999 Constitution
Authors: Arowosegbe Jacob O.
Published: September 2021

This article revisits the legitimacy question as it touches the Nigerian 1999 Constitution, bringing to the discourse a review and application of pertinent theoretical perspectives on constitution making and constitutional legitimacy. This theoretical and pragmatic approach introduces a refreshing angle to the debate, revealing the paucity of any attempt to ascribe any legitimacy claim to a constitution with a doubtful normative claim and fraudulent attribution of its source and legitimacy to the people. The author finds the consent basis of constitutional legitimacy as most attractive to a divided state like Nigeria, and concludes by advocating the adoption of a blend of the principles of the constituent assembly and post sovereign constitution-making models for the production of a new people-driven and inclusive constitution to meet the needs of the Nigerian people.
Climatology of Tropical Cyclone Seed Frequency and Survival Rate in Tropical Cyclones
Authors: Ikehata Kohsuke , Satoh Masaki
Published: September 2021

The relative contribution of tropical cyclone (TC) seed frequency and survival rate to TC frequency, together with factors affecting both, are investigated by focusing on monthly or interannual variations during boreal summers in 2000–2018. In this study, TC seeds are defined as weak lower‐tropospheric vortices. The results show that variation in TC frequency is controlled mainly by the survival rate interannually and horizontally. Survival rates vary with environmental fields, particularly those represented by a genesis potential index and thermodynamic variables at the initial stage of corresponding TC seeds, whereas the variation in TC seed frequency is correlated with monthly mean lower‐tropospheric relative vorticity and vertical velocity. These results suggest that large‐scale environmental fields affect TC frequency mainly through the survival rate, and low‐level vorticity and vertical motion are related to the TC seed frequency.