bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental study on flexural performance of reinforced concrete beams strengthened by PET
Authors: Si Jianhui , Hu Jiannan , Liu Zewei , Zeng Zhaobao , Li Kai , Ding Xinchao
Published: April 2023

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a new type of fiber‐reinforced polymer (FRP) composite material, which has the characteristics of high performance, high toughness, high tensile fracture load, low elongation, low creep, no rust, and safety in use. The good performance of PET can significantly improve the mechanical properties of its components. A total of six reinforced concrete (RC) beams were produced in the test, one of which was a comparison beam, and the other five were reinforced with PET. In the test, the PET reinforcement spacing, number of reinforcement layers, and laying method were used as control variables, and an experimental study on the normal section bending performance of the specimen was performed. The test analyses the failure characteristics, crack width, bearing capacity, and deflection of the specimens under different reinforcement conditions. The test results showed that PET reinforcement can effectively inhibit the occurrence and development of cracks in RC beams and improve the ultimate bearing capacity and ductility of the components. The smaller the PET reinforcement spacing, the higher the ultimate bearing capacity; the greater the number of PET layers, the better the ductility of the specimen. Additionally, the economy, environmental protection, and portability of PET are of great significance for its application in practical engineering reinforcement.
Incorporation of graphene oxide nanosheets into polyethersulfone membranes to improve their separation performance and antifouling characteristics for Congo red removal
Authors: Adnan Maykhan Nabeel , Alsalhy Qusay F. , Bakhtiari Omid
Published: April 2023

Due to worldwide shortage of water sources and, on the other hand, producing a huge amount of contaminated industrial wastewater, there is an urgent need to provide proper treatment processes such as fast‐growing membrane ones. In this study, some nanocomposite nanofilter membranes, as a promising solution for this goal, were fabricated by incorporation of graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets into polyethersulfone (PES) membrane matrix and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) via the method of non‐solvent‐induced phase separation (NIPS) to dedicate them higher separation performance and a higher antifouling tendency. The produced GO nanosheets and the prepared membranes' structure were evaluated by field‐emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and atomic force microscopy (AFM) analysis. Then, the separation performance and antifouling characteristics of the prepared pristine and nanocomposite membranes were evaluated at 3 bar, 27°C, and Congo red (CR) dye concentrations of 50, 100, and 200 ppm. The observations revealed that the incorporation of GO nanosheets into the polymer matrix of PES–PVP increases the permeation flux, rejection of CR, and flux recovery ratio (FRR) to the maximum values of 276.4 L/m2.h, 99.5%, and 92.4%, respectively, at 0.4 wt.% loading of GO nanosheets as an optimum filler loading.

Practitioner Points

Graphene oxide nanosheets were prepared and uniformly incorporated in the polyethersulfone porous membrane.

The nanocomposite membranes revealed higher separation performance, that is, permeation flux and dye rejection as 282.5 L/m2.h and 99.5% at 0.4 wt.% loading of GO nanosheets.

Flux recovery ratio of the nanocomposite membrane, as their antifouling character, also increased as 92.4%, as the GO nanosheets were incorporated by 0.4 wt.%.
The Future of European Political Science
Authors: Capano Giliberto , Verzichelli Luca
Published: April 2023

The data briefly presented at the end of the previous chapter summarize the different reactions of the European community of political scientists to the impact of the pandemic in terms of patterns of adaptation. As already shown, a significant minority believe that this crisis should be considered an opportunity to improve the social relevance of the discipline and to produce better research. Additionally, a good number of political scientists think that the near future will be crucial to focusing their research agendas more closely on what is relevant for the socio-political context.
Harnessing Growth Factor Interactions to Optimize Articular Cartilage Repair
Authors: Trippel Stephen B.
Published: April 2023

The failure of cartilage healing is a major impediment to recovery from jointdisease or trauma. Growth factors play a central role in cell function and have been proposed as potential therapeutic agents to promote cartilage repair. Decades of investigation have identified many growth factors that promote the formation of cartilage in vitro and in vivo. However, very few of these have progressed to human trials. A growth factor that robustly augments articular cartilage healing remains elusive. This is not surprising. Articular cartilage repair involves multiple cellular processes and it is unlikely that any single agent will be able to optimally regulate all of them. It is more likely that multiple regulatory molecules may be required to optimize the maintenance and restoration of articular cartilage. If this is the case, then interactions among growth factors may be expected to play a key role in determining their therapeutic value. This review explores the hypothesis that growth factor interactions could help optimize articular cartilage healing.
Hip Osteoarthritis: Bench to Bedside Perspective
Authors: Kim Young-Jo
Published: April 2023

Osteoarthritis is a major source of pain, disability, and economic cost worldwide. For nearly a century, there has been a debate about the causes of hip osteoarthritis and the role that structural abnormalities may play as a causative factor. Recent advances in open and minimally invasive techniques such as the periacetabular osteotomy, surgical hip dislocation and arthroscopic approaches have allowed us safe access into the joint to not only improve the abnormal bony structure and repair damaged tissue but also to gain clinical insights into the cause of joint damage. At present, structural abnormalities such as acetabular dysplasia and CAM deformities of the proximal femur are thought to be a major factor causing premature hip OA. Over the past 30 years, our understanding of the function and biology of articular cartilage has evolved from a relatively acellular lubricating cushion to a metabolically active tissue that can modulate its tissue composition in response to mechanical loading. Using advanced biochemical MR imaging technique called delayed Gadolinium Enhanced MRI of Cartilage (dGEMRIC), it has been shown that alteration in the mechanical environment of the hip with a pelvic osteotomy in acetabular dysplasia can alter the articular cartilage composition. This further demonstrates the importance of mechanics in development of joint damage and the potential for surgical correction to prevent or slow down the progression of OA.
Is the First Language a Resource, an Obstacle, or Irrelevant for Language Minority Students’ Education?
Authors: Edele Aileen , Seuring Julian , Schotte Kristin , Kristen Cornelia , Stanat Petra
Published: April 2023

Successful integration into the education system is of major importance for the future prospects of immigrants and their children as well as for the social cohesion and viability of the receiving societies. Language is generally viewed as an important aspect of this integration. Whereas there is widespread agreement that the language of the residence country (L2) is crucial for students’ educational success, the relevance of the language of the country of origin (L1) is disputed. Adopting an interdisciplinary perspective and drawing on NEPS data, this contribution focuses on the role of L1 in the educational success of immigrants and their children and examines whether L1 serves as a resource, is an obstacle, or is mostly irrelevant. We describe key arguments and theoretical positions related to this issue and present findings from the project ‘The role of immigrants’ first and second language proficiency for social integration, particularly in education: Analyses of NEPS data’. We conclude by discussing these results and suggesting future avenues for research.
Addressing Environmental and Individual Factors in Early Secondary School: The Roles of Instruction Techniques and Self-Perception
Authors: DeVries Jeffrey M. , Szardenings Carsten , Doebler Philipp , Gebhardt Markus
Published: April 2023

Risk factors for poor academic performance include variables such as lower socio-economic status, migrant status, and the presence of special education needs. These risk factors can be mediated by the self-concept of the learner, instructional techniques, and classroom size. Due to the diverse nature of these factors, a comprehensive approach is needed to examine their role. This chapter reports on two NEPS (National Education Panel Study) analyses that examined teaching styles (N = 1072 students in math classes and N = 794 in reading classes) and the mediating role of self-concept and self-esteem (N = 5923 in math classes and N = 5919 in reading classes) along with different sets of risk factors. Results showed that group work related to better outcomes for second-language learners in math and reading, and discussions related to worse outcomes in math for the same group. Further, self-concept and self-esteem partially mediated the effects of gender, special education needs, and non-verbal reasoning on both reading and math competence. These results highlight the importance of varied instructional styles and classroom size, as well as the important role of self-concept and self-esteem as partial mediators of risk factors.
Alternative Routes to Higher Education Eligibility: Inclusion, Diversion and Social Inequality on the Way to Higher Education
Authors: Schindler Steffen , Bittmann Felix
Published: April 2023

This chapter summarizes key findings from the research project Alternative Routes to Higher Education Eligibility (ARtHEE). Based on data from the German National Educational Panel Study (NEPS), we show that the expansion of alternative routes to higher education eligibility, which has followed from reforms in the 1960s, has been largely ineffective in reducing social inequality in access to higher education. We argue that this is due partly to unintended effects of this expansion of alternative pathways that resulted in diversion processes among students of disadvantaged social origin. These diversion effects channel such students into non-academic secondary school tracks and expose them to learning environments that differ from that of the academic school track. We provide empirical evidence suggesting that exposure to these learning environments affects students’ educational aspirations and cognitive development in a way that eventually lowers their chances of staying on a trajectory leading into higher education.
The Dual Relationship Between Human Mobility and Climate Change in Central Asia: Tackling the Vulnerability of Mobility Infrastructure and Transport-Related Environmental Issues
Authors: Blondin Suzy
Published: April 2023

Human mobility impacts the global climate and the climate in turn impacts human mobility. Fuel-based transport emits CO2 and electric transport raises the issue of electricity production and its environmental impacts. Conversely, roads, railways, vehicles and ways of travelling can be impacted by extreme climate events, such as floods, storms, thawing permafrost and melting asphalt. This second aspect of the relationship between climate change and human mobility is rarely explored, even within the scholarship on ‘climate mobility’. Focusing on Central Asia, this chapter presents the specificities of the region regarding the environment–mobilities nexus and highlights the adverse impacts of climate-related mobility disruptions for the populations of the region. The chapter is based on the author’s fieldwork in Central Asia, particularly in Tajikistan, and on press articles and scientific literature on the topic. It discusses the complex relationship between mobilities and climate change in Central Asia, addresses the interconnection between climate justice and mobility justice and provides policy recommendations to promote sustainable mobilities and reduce mobility dependence in the region.
Attitudes Toward a Virtual Smoking Cessation Coach: Relationship and Willingness to Continue
Authors: Albers Nele , Neerincx Mark A. , Aretz Nadyne L. , Ali Mahira , Ekinci Arsen , Brinkman Willem-Paul
Published: April 2023

Virtual coaches have the potential to address the low adherence common to eHealth applications for behavior change by, for example, providing motivational support. However, given the multitude of factors affecting users’ attitudes toward virtual coaches, more insights are needed on how such virtual coaches can be designed to affect these attitudes in a specific use context positively. Especially valuable are insights that are based on users interacting with such a virtual coach for longer. We thus conducted a study in which more than 500 smokers interacted with the text-based virtual coach Sam in five sessions. In each session, Sam assigned smokers a new preparatory activity for quitting smoking and provided motivational support for doing the activity. Based on a mixed-methods analysis of users’ willingness to continue working and their relationship with Sam, we obtained eight themes for users’ attitudes toward Sam. These themes relate to whether Sam is seen as human or artificial, specific characteristics of Sam (e.g., caring character), the interaction with Sam, and the relationship with Sam. We used these themes to formulate literature-based recommendations to guide designers of virtual coaches for behavior change. For example, letting the virtual coach get to know users and disclose more information about itself may improve its relationship with users.
Asymptotic $$ \mathcal{O} $$(r) gauge symmetries and gauge-invariant Poincaré generators in higher spacetime dimensions
Authors: Fuentealba Oscar
Published: April 2023

Abstract

The asymptotic symmetries of electromagnetism in all higher spacetime dimensions d > 4 are extended, by incorporating consistently angle-dependent u(1) gauge transformations with a linear growth in the radial coordinate at spatial infinity. Finiteness of the symplectic structure and preservation of the asymptotic conditions require to impose a set of strict parity conditions, under the antipodal map of the (d − 2)-sphere, on the leading order fields at infinity. Canonical generators of the asymptotic symmetries are obtained through standard Hamiltonian methods. Remarkably, the theory endowed with this set of asymptotic conditions turns out to be invariant under a six-fold set of angle-dependent u(1) transformations, whose generators form a centrally extended abelian algebra. The new charges generated by the $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(r) gauge parameter are found to be conjugate to those associated to the now improper subleading O(r−d+3) transformations, while the standard $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(1) gauge transformations are canonically conjugate to the subleading $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(r−d+4) transformations. This algebraic structure, characterized by the presence of central charges, allows us to perform a nonlinear redefinition of the Poincaré generators, that results in the decoupling of all of the u(1) charges from the Poincaré algebra. Thus, the mechanism previously used in d = 4 to find gauge-invariant Poincaré generators is shown to be a robust property of electromagnetism in all spacetime dimensions d ≥ 4.
Efficient spline design via feature-mapping for continuous fiber-reinforced structures
Authors: Greifenstein Jannis , Letournel Eloïse , Stingl Michael , Wein Fabian
Published: April 2023

We present a feature-mapping topology optimization approach, in which curved features are parametrized as piecewise linear splines smoothly rounded by arcs. The motivation for our contribution to the tool set of feature-mapping methods is the optimization of structures manufactured by variable angle continuous fiber-reinforced filaments. For this reason, the feature’s geometry should be able to represent long, curved fiber objects satisfying manufacturing constraints, such as minimum turning radius. The proposed model has been chosen with special care for rigorous continuous differentiability, as well as an efficient analytical evaluation of the signed distance field to the spline. The geometrical description and sensitivity analysis of the spline model are developed fully analytically and then mapped to a discretized pseudo-density field for finite element analysis. For the fiber-reinforced material formulation, we also present a new combine step for individual features, in which the best possible angle for the combined features is searched. The model and results are presented in a two-dimensional setting.
A generalized approach for robust topology optimization using the first-order second-moment method for arbitrary response functions
Authors: Kranz Micah , Lüdeker Julian Kajo , Kriegesmann Benedikt
Published: April 2023

The paper presents a rigorous formulation of adjoint systems to be solved for a robust design optimization using the first-order second-moment method. This formulation allows to apply the method for any objective function, which is demonstrated by considering deformation at certain point and maximum stress as objectives subjected to random material stiffness and geometry, respectively. The presented approach requires the solution of at most three additional adjoint systems per uncertain system response, when compared to the deterministic case. Hence, the number of adjoint systems to be solved is independent of the number of random variables. This comes at the expense of accuracy, since the objective functions are assumed to be linear with respect to random parameters. However, the application to two standard cases and the validation with Monte Carlo simulations show that the approach is still able to find robust designs.
Extending deep-sea benthic biodiversity inventories with environmental DNA metabarcoding
Authors: Oosthuizen Delene , Seymour Mathew , Atkinson Lara J. , von der Heyden Sophie
Published: April 2023

Inventories of biodiversity are crucial for helping support conservation and management efforts, yet the deep-sea, which is the largest biome on earth remains vastly understudied. Recent advances in molecular detection methods offer alternative techniques for studying inaccessible ecosystems, including those at depth. In this study we utilized environmental DNA metabarcoding, a first for studying deep-sea benthic environments in southern Africa, to assess biological diversity and to test the effects of depth and historical trawling activities on deep-sea communities. Utilising 29 sediment samples (thus focussing on predominantly meiofaunal and epifaunal biodiversity) and targeting a 313 bp region of the mtDNA cytochrome oxidase I gene, we recovered 444 OTUs across a wide array of species and genera. Even though many OTUs could only be assigned to higher taxonomic levels, results showed that biodiversity differed significantly across depth, suggesting that even at relatively small spatial scales (~ 6 km, across a depth gradient of 355 m to 515 m), eDNA derived biodiversity detected variation linked to the depth gradient. Comparison of the OTU database with known species inventories from the sampled area revealed little overlap, highlighting the need for expanding barcoding efforts of deep-sea species to aid future eDNA survey efforts. Overall our results suggest that within a South African context, increased barcoding efforts, in combination with eDNA metabarcoding and physical sampling could capture a greater proportion of benthic deep-sea biodiversity. This provides additional opportunities to underpin conservation and management decision-making in the region, such as evaluating potential sites for future protection.
Gd-EOB-DTPA-MRCP to localize bile leakage after liver trauma and surgery: impact on treatment and outcome
Authors: Marth Adrian A. , Auer Timo A. , Walter-Rittel Thula C. , Nevermann Nora , Krenzien Felix , Schmelzle Moritz , Müller Tobias , Kolck Johannes , Wieners Gero , Geisel Dominik , Gebauer Bernhard , Hamm Bernd , Schöning Wenzel , Fehrenbach Uli
Published: April 2023

Objectives

Bile leakage (BL) is a challenging complication after hepatobiliary surgery and liver trauma. Gadolinium ethoxybenzyl (Gd-EOB-DTPA)–enhanced magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) is used to diagnose BL non-invasively. We assessed the value of Gd-EOB-DTPA-MRCP in the detection of postoperative and post-traumatic BL hypothesizing that exact identification of the leakage site is pivotal for treatment planning and outcome.

Methods

We retrospectively enrolled 39 trauma and postoperative patients who underwent Gd-EOB-DTPA-MRCP for suspected BL. Three readers rated the presence of BL and leakage site (intraparenchymal, central, peripheral ± aberrant or disconnected ducts). Imaging findings were compared to subsequent interventional procedures and their complexity and outcome.

Results

BL was detected in Gd-EOB-DTPA-MRCP in 25 of patients and was subsequently confirmed. Sites of BL differed significantly between postoperative (central [58%] and peripheral [42%]) and trauma patients (intraparenchymal [100%]; p < 0.001). Aberrant or disconnected ducts were diagnosed in 8%/26% of cases in the postoperative subgroup. Inter-rater agreement for the detection and localization of BL was almost perfect (Κ = 0.85 and 0.88; p < 0.001). Intraparenchymal BL required significantly less complex interventional procedures (p = 0.002), whereas hospitalization and mortality did not differ between the subgroups (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Gd-EOB-DTPA-MRCP reliably detects and exactly locates BL in postoperative and trauma patients. Exact localization of biliary injuries enables specific treatment planning, as intraparenchymal leakages, which occur more frequently after trauma, require less complex interventions than central or peripheral leaks in the postoperative setting. As a result of specific treatment based on exact BL localization, there was no difference in the duration of hospitalization or mortality.

Clinical relevance statement

Gd-EOB-DTPA-MRCP is a reliable diagnostic tool for exactly localizing iatrogenic and post-traumatic biliary leakage. Its precise localization helps tailor local therapies for different injury patterns, resulting in comparable clinical outcomes despite varying treatments.

Key Points

• Gd-EOB-DTPA-MRCP enables adequate detection and localization of bile leakages in both postoperative and post-traumatic patients.

• The site of bile leakage significantly impacts the complexity of required additional interventions.

• Intraparenchymal bile leakage is commonly seen in patients with a history of liver trauma and requires less complex interventions than postoperative central or peripheral bile leakages, while hospitalization and mortality are similar.
Association between complete revascularization of the coronary artery and clinical outcomes in peripheral artery disease: a sub-analysis of the I-PAD Nagano registry
Authors: Kato Tamon , Ueki Yasushi , Minamisawa Masatoshi , Miura Takashi , Oyama Yushi , Hashizume Naoto , Yokota Daisuke , Taki Minami , Senda Keisuke , Okina Yoshiteru , Wakabayashi Tadamasa , Fujimori Koki , Karube Kenichi , Sakai Takahiro , Nomi Hidetomo , Yui Hisanori , Kanzaki Yusuke , Machida Keisuke , Maruyama Shusaku , Nagae Ayumu , Saigusa Tatsuya , Ebisawa Soichiro , Okada Ayako , Motoki Hirohiko , Kuwahara Koichiro ,   the I-PAD investigators
Published: April 2023

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is commonly caused by atherosclerosis and has an unfavorable prognosis. Complete revascularization (CR) of the coronary artery reduces the risk of major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE) in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). However, the impact of CR in patients with PAD has not been established to date. Therefore, we evaluated the impact of CR of CAD on the five-year clinical outcomes in patients with PAD. This study was based on a prospective, multicenter, observational registry in Japan. We enrolled 366 patients with PAD undergoing endovascular treatment. The primary endpoint was MACE, defined as a composite of all-cause death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, and non-fatal stroke. After excluding ineligible patients, 96 and 68 patients received complete revascularization of the coronary artery (CR group) and incomplete revascularization of the coronary artery (ICR group), respectively. Freedom from MACE in the CR group was significantly higher than in the ICR group at 5 years (66.7% vs 46.0%, p < 0.01). Multivariate analysis revealed that CR emerged as an independent predictor of MACE (Hazard ratio: 0.56, 95% confidential interval: 0.34–0.94, p = 0.03). CR of CAD was significantly associated with improved clinical outcomes in patients with PAD undergoing endovascular treatment.
Complications of reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome in relation to age
Authors: Lange Kristin Sophie , Tuloup Gabrielle , Duflos Claire , Gobron Claire , Burcin Cécilia , Corti Lucas , Roos Caroline , Ducros Anne , Mawet Jérôme
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) has a heterogenous clinical and radiological presentation. We investigated whether RCVS complications vary according to age.

Patients and methods

In a pooled French cohort of 345 patients with RCVS, we assessed (1) rates of clinical and radiological complications, and (2) the functional outcome at 3 months according to age as a continuous variable, and in young patients aged ≤ 49 years versus those aged ≥ 50 years. TheCommission Nationale Informatique et Libertéand the local ethics committee approved this study (registration number: 202100733).

Results

The risk for any focal deficit and for any brain lesion were independently associated with increasing age (OR 1.4, 95% CI 1.1–1.8;p = 0.014, and OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.2–2.1;p < 0.001, respectively). Subtypes of brain lesions independently associated with increasing age were subarachnoid haemorrhage (OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.3–2.3;p < 0.001) and intracerebral haemorrhage (OR 1.5, 95% CI 1.1–2.2;p = 0.023). Frequency of cervical artery dissections peaked at age 30–39, and young age was independently associated with cervical artery dissections (OR 13.6, 95% CI 2.4–76.6;p = 0.003). Age had no impact on the functional outcome, with a modified Rankin scale score of 0–1 in > 96% of patients.

Conclusion

Age seems to influence rates and types of complications of RCVS, with young age being associated with cervical artery dissections, and increasing age with haemorrhagic complications. If confirmed in larger prospective studies, recognition of age-specific patterns might help to guide clinical management and to identify complications in cases of RCVS and vice versa.
Premenarchal anorexia nervosa: clinical features, psychopharmacological interventions, and rehospitalization analysis in a 1-year follow-up, controlled study
Authors: Pruccoli Jacopo , Pugliano Rosa , Pranzetti Beatrice , Parmeggiani Antonia
Published: April 2023

Premenarchal anorexia nervosa (AN) represents a specific subtype of AN, defined by an onset before the menarche in females, involving unique endocrine and prognostic features. The scarce data on this condition lack case–control and follow-up studies. This is a case–control, observational, naturalistic study, involving participants with premenarchal AN (premenarchal girls presenting to the study center newly diagnosed with AN) treated with a multidisciplinary hospital intervention, compared to postmenarchal AN individuals on clinical, endocrine, psychopathological, and treatment variables. The rate of rehospitalizations on a 1-year follow-up after discharge and respective prognostic factors were assessed with a Kaplan–Meier analysis and Cox regression model. The sample included 234 AN participants (43, 18.4% with premenarchal and 191, 81.6% with postmenarchal AN). When compared to postmenarchal, premenarchal AN individuals presented with lower depressive scores (Self-Administered Psychiatric Scales for Children and Adolescents (SAFA)) (U = 1387.0,p = 0.010) and lower luteinizing hormone (LH) levels (U = 3056.0,p = 0.009) and were less frequently treated with antidepressants (X2 = 5.927,p = 0.015). A significant predictive model of the risk of rehospitalization (X2 = 19.192,p = 0.004) identified a higher age at admission (B = 0.522,p = 0.020) and a day-hospital (vs inpatient) treatment (B = 3957,p = 0.007) as predictive factors for rehospitalization at 1-year, independent from the menarchal status.

   Conclusion: This study reports the clinical and treatment characteristics of premenarchal AN in one of the largest samples available in the current literature. Specific clinical features and prognostic factors for rehospitalization at 1-year follow-up were identified. Future studies should longitudinally investigate treatment-dependent modifications in endocrine and psychopathological measures in this population.What is Known:• Premenarchal Anorexia Nervosa (AN) is a subtype of AN characterized by its onset before menarche in females and is associated with unique endocrine and prognostic features.What is New:• Individuals with premenarchal AN may display specific clinical profiles, with lower depressive symptoms and luteinizing hormone levels than postmenarchal controls.
Mucosal injury during laparoscopic Heller cardiomyotomy: risk factors and impact on surgical outcomes
Authors: El-Magd El-Sayed Abou , Elgeidie Ahmed , Abbas Amr , Elmahdy Youssif , Abulazm Ibrahem Lotfy
Published: April 2023

Purpose

To investigate the risk factors and outcomes of mucosal perforation (MP) during laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM) in patients with achalasia.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent LHM for achalasia at a single facility.

Results

Among 412 patients who underwent LHM for achalasia, MP was identified in 52 (12.6%). Old age, long disease duration, low albumin level, an esophageal transverse diameter  > 6 cm, and a sigmoid-shaped esophagus were found to be independent predictors of MP. These factors were assigned a pre-operative score to predict the perforation risk. MP had a significant impact on intra and post-operative outcomes. Gastric side perforation was associated with a higher incidence of reflux symptoms, whereas esophageal-side perforation had a higher incidence of residual dysphagia.

Conclusions

Many risk factors for MP have been identified. Correctable parameters like low serum albumin should be resolved prior to surgery, while uncorrectable parameters like old age and a sigmoid-shaped esophagus should be managed by experienced surgeons in high-volume centers. Implementing these recommendations will help decrease the incidence and consequences of this serious complication.
Pet dogs (Canis familiaris) re-engage humans after joint activity
Authors: Byrne Molly , Horschler Daniel J. , Schmitt Mark , Johnston Angie M.
Published: April 2023

Joint intentionality, the mutual understanding of shared goals or actions to partake in a common task, is considered an essential building block of theory of mind in humans. Domesticated dogs are unusually adept at comprehending human social cues and cooperating with humans, making it possible that they possess behavioral signatures of joint intentionality in interactions with humans. Horschler and colleagues (Anim Behav 183: 159–168, 2022) examined joint intentionality in a service dog population, finding that upon interruption of a joint experience, dogs preferentially re-engaged their former partner over a passive bystander, a behavior argued to be a signature of joint intentionality in human children. In the current study, we aimed to replicate and extend these results in pet dogs. One familiar person played with the dog and then abruptly stopped. We examined if dogs would preferentially re-engage the player instead of a familiar bystander who was also present. Consistent with the findings of Horschler and colleagues (Anim Behav 183: 159–168, 2022), pet dogs preferentially gazed toward and offered the toy to the player significantly more than the familiar bystander. However, no difference was observed in physical contact. These findings provide preliminary evidence for behavioral signatures of joint intentionality in pet dogs, but future work is needed to understand whether this phenomenon extends to other contexts.
Neural network expression rates and applications of the deep parametric PDE method in counterparty credit risk
Authors: Glau Kathrin , Wunderlich Linus
Published: April 2023

The recently introduced deep parametric PDE method combines the efficiency of deep learning for high-dimensional problems with the reliability of classical PDE models. The accuracy of the deep parametric PDE method is determined by the best-approximation property of neural networks. We provide (to the best of our knowledge) the first approximation results, which feature a dimension-independent rate of convergence for deep neural networks with a hyperbolic tangent as the activation function. Numerical results confirm that the deep parametric PDE method performs well in high-dimensional settings by presenting in a risk management problem of high interest for the financial industry.
Apoptotic Janus-faced mycotoxins against thoracal and breast metastases
Authors: Banfalvi Gaspar
Published: April 2023

Abdominal organs (liver, kidney, spleen) are frequent targets of cancer cell invasion but their primary tumours are less known for their metastatic potential to other organs e.g. to the breast. Despite the known connection of the pathogenesis from breast cancer to liver metastasis, the study of the spread in the opposite direction has been neglected. The notion that breast cancer could be a metastasis besides being a primary tumour is based on rodents’ tumour models upon implantation of tumour cells under the capsule of the kidney or under the Glisson’s capsule of the liver of rats and mice. Tumour cells develop into a primary tumour at the site of subcutaneous implantation. The metastatic process starts with peripheral disruptions of blood vessels near the surface of primary tumours. Tumour cells released into the abdomen cross the apertures of the diaphragm, enter the thoracal lymph nodes and accumulate in parathymic lymph nodes. Abdominal colloidal carbon particles injected into the abdomen faithfully mimicked the migration of tumour cells and deposited in parathymic lymph nodes (PTNs). An explanation is provided why the connection between abdominal tumours and mammary tumours escaped attention, notably, parathymic lymph nodes in humans were referred to as internal mammary or parasternal lymph nodes. The apoptotic effect of Janus-faced cytotoxins is suggested to provide a new approach against the spread of abdominal primary tumours, and metastatic development.
P2rx1 deficiency alleviates acetaminophen-induced acute liver failure by regulating the STING signaling pathway
Authors: Yu Yeping , Chang Ling , Hu Qingluan , Zhu Jianjun , Zhang Jianjun , Xia Qiang , Zhao Jie
Published: April 2023

Aims

Purinergic signaling-mediated mitochondria dysfunction and innate immune-mediated inflammation act as triggers during acetaminophen (APAP)-induced liver injury (AILI). However, the underlying mechanisms by which purinoceptor regulates mitochondria function and inflammation response in the progression of AILI remains unclear.

Methods

First, the hepatic level of purinergic receptor P2X 1 (P2RX1) was identified in the DILI patients and APAP-induced WT mice. P2rx1 knockout (KO) mice (P2rx1−/−) with 300 mg/kg APAP challenge were used for the analysis of the potential role of P2RX1 in the progression of AILI. Administration of DMX, the activator of stimulator of interferon genes (STING), was performed to investigate the effects of the STING-related pathway on APAP-treated P2rx1−/− mice.

Results

The elevated hepatic P2RX1 levels were found in DILI patients and the AILI mice. P2rx1 depletion offered protection against the initial stages of AILI, mainly by inhibiting cell death and promoting inflammation resolution, which was associated with alleviating mitochondria dysfunction. Mechanistically, P2rx1 depletion could inhibit STING-TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1)-P65 signaling pathways in vivo. We then showed that DMX-mediated STING activation could greatly aggravate the liver injury of P2rx1−/− mice treated with APAP.

Conclusion

Our data confirmed that P2RX1 was inducted during AILI, identified P2RX1 as a novel regulator in mitochondria dysfunction and STING pathways, and suggested a promising therapeutic approach for AILI involving the blockade of P2RX1.

Graphical abstract

1. It first demonstrated the protective effects of P2rx1 deficiency on acetaminophen-induced liver injury (AILI).

2. P2rx1 knockout alleviates mitochondria function and promotes inflammation resolution after APAP treatment.

3. It first reported the regulation of P2RX1 on the STING signaling pathway in the progress of AILI.

4. P2RX1 blockade is a promising therapeutic strategy for AILI.
Characterization of the water bodies of Extremadura (SW Spain)
Authors: Abdennour Mohamed Amine , Contador J. Francisco Lavado , González Jesús Barrena , Piccini Chiara , Landaverde Anthony Gabourel , Fernández Manuel Pulido
Published: April 2023

Extremadura is the region that stores the greatest amount of fresh water in Spain. Such water is mainly used for power generation, irrigation in agriculture, biodiversity conservation, tourism, recreation, and human and livestock consumption. Nevertheless, crucial information on the total number of water bodies and their geometrical characteristics and spatial distribution patterns are still missing. Thus, our main goal was to characterize the Extremenian water bodies geometrically and spatially through different statistical techniques such as kernel density, Moran’s index, the Getis-Ord Gi*, and principal component analysis (PCA). Firstly, all existing hydrological information was gathered, and using aerial aircraft imagery and satellite images, each water body (WB) was then carefully collected, checked, and corrected. We have inventoried 100,614 WBs (mean density: 2.45 WB km2), irregularly distributed on the territory. WBs with an area < 0.01 km2 (100 ha) represent 64.5% of the total. A multivariate statistical study was conducted, showing that livestock, aridity of the climate, and topography are the main factors controlling the density of water bodies (WBs) in this area. It can be concluded that monitoring of small bodies is crucial to understand their spatial distribution, since they are spread over areas in which extensive farming and commercial crops such as tobacco strongly influence the way of living of many families.
Recursive inverse dynamics sensitivity analysis of open-tree-type multibody systems
Authors: Zhakatayev Altay , Rogovchenko Yuriy , Pätzold Matthias
Published: April 2023

We present a first-order recursive approach to sensitivity analysis based on the application of the direct differentiation method to the inverse Lagrangian dynamics of rigid multibody systems. Our method is simple and efficient and is characterized by the following features. Firstly, it describes the kinematics of multibody systems using branch connectivity graphs and joint-branch connectivity matrices. For most mechanical systems with an open-tree kinematic structure, this method turns out to be more efficient compared to other kinematic descriptions employing joint or link connectivity graphs. Secondly, a recursive sensitivity analysis is presented for a dynamic system with an open-tree kinematic structure and inverse dynamic equations described in terms of the Lagrangian formalism. Thirdly, known approaches to recursive inverse dynamic and sensitivity analyses are modified to include dynamic systems with external forces and torques acting simultaneously at all joints. Finally, the proposed method for sensitivity analysis is easy to implement and computationally efficient. It can be utilized to evaluate the derivatives of the dynamic equations of multibody systems in gradient-based optimization algorithms. It also allows less experienced users to perform sensitivity analyses using the power of high-level programming languages such as MATLAB. To illustrate the method, simulation results for a human body model are discussed. The shortcomings of the method and possible directions for future work are outlined.
Hermite least squares optimization: a modification of BOBYQA for optimization with limited derivative information
Authors: Fuhrländer Mona , Schöps Sebastian
Published: April 2023

Derivative-free optimization tackles problems, where the derivatives of the objective function are unknown. However, in practical optimization problems, the derivatives of the objective function are often not available with respect to all optimization variables, but for some. In this work we propose the Hermite least squares optimization method: an optimization method, specialized for the case that some partial derivatives of the objective function are available and others are not. The main goal is to reduce the number of objective function calls compared to state of the art derivative-free solvers, while the convergence properties are maintained. The Hermite least squares method is a modification of Powell’s derivative-free BOBYQA algorithm. But instead of (underdetermined) interpolation for building the quadratic subproblem in each iteration, the training data is enriched with first and—if possible—second order derivatives and then least squares regression is used. Proofs for global convergence are discussed and numerical results are presented. Further, the applicability is verified for a realistic test case in the context of yield optimization. Numerical tests show that the Hermite least squares approach outperforms classic BOBYQA if half or more partial derivatives are available. In addition, it achieves more robustness and thus better performance in case of noisy objective functions.
Health-related quality of life 12 years after injury: prevalence and predictors of outcomes in a cohort of injured Māori
Authors: Maclennan Brett , Derrett Sarah , Wyeth Emma
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Studies have found that many people who sustain an injury can experience adverse outcomes for a considerable time thereafter. Māori, the Indigenous peoples of Aotearoa me Te Waipounamu (New Zealand; NZ), are no exception. The Prospective Outcomes of Injury Study (POIS) found that almost three-quarters of Māori participants were experiencing at least one of a range of poor outcomes at two years post-injury. The aim of this paper was to estimate the prevalence, and identify predictors, of adverse health-related quality of life (HRQoL) outcomes in the POIS-10 Māori cohort, 12 years after participants sustained an injury.

Methods

Interviewers reached 354 individuals who were eligible to participate in a POIS-10 Māori interview, to be conducted a decade after the last phase of POIS interviews (held 24 months post-injury). The outcomes of interest were responses to each of the five EQ-5D-5L dimensions at 12 years post-injury. Potential predictors (i.e., pre-injury sociodemographic and health measures; injury-related factors) were collected from earlier POIS interviews. Additional injury-related information was collected from administrative datasets proximate to the injury event 12 years prior.

Results

Predictors of 12-year HRQoL outcomes varied by EQ-5D-5L dimension. The most common predictors across dimensions were pre-injury chronic conditions and pre-injury living arrangements.

Conclusion

An approach to rehabilitation where health services proactively enquire about, and consider the broader aspects of, patient health and wellbeing throughout the injury recovery process, and effectively coordinate their patients’ care with other health and social services where necessary, may help improve long-term HRQoL outcomes for injured Māori.
The impact of trade facilitation on African SMEs’ performance
Authors: Hansen-Addy Andrew E. , Parrilli Davide M. , Tingbani Ishmael
Published: April 2023

Whilst contemporary literature indicates that the business environment (BE) impacts almost all entrepreneurial activities, there are indications that the unique business and institutional setting in Africa (with its challenges and opportunities) and the nature of SMEs (their strengths and weaknesses), among other factors, lead to the context-specific impact of regulations on the performance of African SMEs. Using regressions and propensity score matching methods on a panel of 39,461 firm observations (27 African countries) from the World Bank Enterprise Surveys, we unearthed evidence to suggest that whilst enabling tax administration and business licensing regulations improve SMEs’ performance, trade facilitation impedes African SMEs’ performance. Furthermore, the institutional context of competition (from foreign firms) worsens trade facilitation’s negative impact on African SMEs’ performance. These findings suggest a fine-tuning of BE regulations in African countries. Trade facilitation, for example, must be carefully thought through and implemented in a way to benefit SMEs.
When Arne met J. L.: attitudes to scientific method in empirical semantics, ordinary language philosophy and linguistics
Authors: Chapman Siobhan
Published: April 2023

In the autumn of 1959, Arne Naess and J. L. Austin, both pioneers of empirical study in the philosophy of language, discussed their points of agreement and disagreement at a meeting in Oslo. This article considers the fragmentary record that has survived of that meeting, and investigates what light it can shed on the question of why the two philosophers apparently found so little common ground, given their shared commitment to the importance of data in the study of language. Naess and Austin held different views about two significant aspects of the relationship between scientific method and philosophical investigation. The first aspect concerns the nature of experimental data; Naess used the statistical analysis of data collected from non-philosophical informants while Austin advocated deliberation leading to agreement over usage by a few skilled experts. The second aspect relates to their respective attitudes to the role of theory in philosophical inquiry, attitudes which drew on discussions of scientific method, and its relevance to philosophy, from the early decades of the twentieth century. This article traces the evidence for these views on scientific method in Naess’s and Austin’s respective published work, and in the record of their Oslo meeting. It concludes with a brief overview of opinions about scientific method manifest in the decades since that meeting in various branches of linguistics. These opinions speak to the enduring importance of attitudes to scientific method in relation to our study and understanding of human language.
Macro-superlubricity in sputtered MoS2-based films by decreasing edge pinning effect
Authors: Dong Chunmeng , Jiang Dong , Fu Yanlong , Wang Desheng , Wang Qinqin , Weng Lijun , Hu Ming , Gao Xiaoming , Sun Jiayi
Published: April 2023

To date, MoS2 can only be achieved at microscale. Edge pinning effect caused by structure defects is the most obvious barrier to expand the size of structural superlubricity to macroscale. Herein, we plan to pin edge planes of MoS2 with nanospheres, and then the incommensurate structure can be formed between adjacent rolling nanoparticles to reduce friction. The sputtered MoS2 film was prepared by the physical vapor deposition (PVD) in advance. Then enough Cu2O nanospheres (∼40 nm) were generated in situ at the edge plane of MoS2 layers by liquid phase synthesis. An incommensurate structure (mismatch angle (θ) = 8°) caused by MoS2 layers was formed before friction. The friction coefficient of the films (5 N, 1,000 r/min) was ∼6.0×10−3 at the most. During friction, MoS2 layers pinned on numerous of Cu2O nanoparticles reduced its edge pinning effect and decreased friction. Moreover, much more incommensurate was formed, developing macro-superlubricity.