bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Alternative Approach to Simulate the Power Conversion Efficiency of Bulk Heterojunction Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Ram Kiran Sreedhar , Ompong David , Rad Hooman Mehdizadeh , Setsoafia Daniel Dodzi Yao , Singh Jai
Published: October 2020

An alternative approach to simulate the power conversion efficiency (ηPCE) of bulk heterojunction organic solar cells (BHJ OSCs), as a product of efficiencies of absorption (ηabs), dissociation (ηdis), and extraction (ηext), is presented. Although ηabs and ηdis do not directly contribute to the simulation of ηPCE, the approach enables us in understanding their roles in optimizing the power conversion efficiency of BHJ OSCs. This method is applied to simulate ηPCE as a function of the thickness of active layer for three different BHJ OSC structures, one with a fullerene acceptor and two with two different nonfullerene acceptors. The results are found to be in good agreement with those from the previous simulation and experimental works and are expected to be useful in optimizing the thickness of the active layer.
Resonant Raman Scattering of 4‐Nitrothiophenol
Authors: Juergensen Sabrina , Kusch Patryk , Reich Stephanie
Published: October 2020

Thiophenol‐based molecules are commonly used reporter molecules for various experiments, especially within the scope of surface‐ and tip‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy. Due to their molecular structure, they bind covalently to noble metals and have a huge Raman scattering cross section. Herein, the widely uncharted optical properties of the frequently used probe molecule 4‐nitrothiophenol (p‐NTP or 4‐NTP) are analyzed by resonant Raman spectroscopy. Based on the three different types of samples, it is demonstrated that the molecule exhibits two intrinsic resonances at specific wavelengths. For a wide range of experiments, this is an important information since intrinsic resonances may give rise to an enhancement of the Raman intensity at these specific excitation wavelengths. The Raman cross section of p‐NTP in resonance at 1.9 eV (650 nm) to be 6 × 10−26 cm2 per molecule is also measured.
Design Strategy of Quantum Dot Thin‐Film Solar Cells
Authors: Kim Taewan , Lim Seyeong , Yun Sunhee , Jeong Sohee , Park Taiho , Choi Jongmin
Published: October 2020

Quantum dots (QDs) are emerging photovoltaic materials that display exclusive characteristics that can be adjusted through modification of their size and surface chemistry. However, designing a QD‐based optoelectronic device requires specialized approaches compared with designing conventional bulk‐based solar cells. In this paper, design considerations for QD thin‐film solar cells are introduced from two different viewpoints: optics and electrics. The confined energy level of QDs contributes to the adjustment of their band alignment, enabling their absorption characteristics to be adapted to a specific device purpose. However, the materials selected for this energy adjustment can increase the light loss induced by interface reflection. Thus, management of the light path is important for optical QD solar cell design, whereas surface modification is a crucial issue for the electrical design of QD solar cells. QD thin‐film solar cell architectures are fabricated as a heterojunction today, and ligand exchange provides suitable doping states and enhanced carrier transfer for the junction. Lastly, the stability issues and methods on QD thin‐film solar cells are surveyed. Through these strategies, a QD solar cell study can provide valuable insights for future‐oriented solar cell technology.
Host–Guest Thin Films by Confining Ultrafine Pt/C QDs into Metal‐Organic Frameworks for Highly Efficient Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Xiao Yi‐Hong , Tian Wenming , Jin Shengye , Gu Zhi‐Gang , Zhang Jian
Published: October 2020

Combining the features of host templates and guest species is an efficient strategy to optimize the photo/electrocatalytic performance. Herein, novel host–guest thin‐film electrocatalysts are designed and developed with Pt doped carbon (Pt/C) confined into porphyrin‐based metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs). Porous MOF PCN‐222 and PCN‐221 thin films are used as the host templates and fabricated using vapor‐assisted deposition method, and then the guest Pt/C quantum dots are encapsulated into the MOFs by loading the glucose mixed H2PtCl6 and heating at 200 °C. Thanks to the confinement effect of MOF pores, the homogenous and ultrafine Pt/C nanowires (Pt/CNWs) and nanodots (Pt/CNDs) are confined in nanochannels of PCN‐222 and nanocages of PCN‐221 (Pt/CNW@PCN‐222 and Pt/CND@PCN‐221), respectively. The electrocatalytic study shows that the host–guest thin films have highly‐efficient electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution performance under light irradiation. Furthermore, the time‐resolved photoluminescent results reveal that Pt/CNW@PCN‐222 has a faster charge transfer (441 ps) from PCN‐222 to Pt/CNWs comparing to that (557 ps) of Pt/CND@PCN‐221, indicating the guests with different shapes play an important role in the electrocatalytic performance. This work serves to present both the outstanding level of control in the precise synthesis and high potential for nanocomposite thin films in photo‐electrocatalytic application.
Axial behavior of full‐scale sandwich columns with different compressive strengths
Authors: Choi Seung‐Ho , Hwang Jin‐Ha , Han Sun‐Jin , Heo Inwook , Lee Doo‐Hee , Kim Kang Su
Published: October 2020

In this study, a total of six full‐scale sandwich columns were fabricated, and experiments on their load transfer performance were conducted. The effects of steel fiber reinforcement and the ratio of the column width to the slab thickness on the effective compressive strength were theoretically analyzed, and briefly compared the test results of full‐ and reduced‐scale specimens. The current design codes do not take into account the ratio of the column width to the slab thickness when estimating the effective compressive strengths of slabs and columns with different compressive strengths. The test results conducted in this study, however, showed that the effective compressive strength tended to decrease with increasing slab thickness. In addition, the specimen reinforced with steel fibers in the column region exhibited a higher effective compressive strength than the specimen with steel fibers in the slab region.
Is Marine Survival for Puget Sound’s Wild Steelhead Really That Bad? A Nisqually River Case Study Evaluating Estimates of Productivity and Survival of Oncorhynchus mykiss
Authors: Losee James P. , Claiborne Andrew M. , Madel Gabe M. , Klungle Matt , Campbell Lance
Published: October 2020

We highlight the uncertainty that exists around estimating productivity and survival for one population of threatened steelhead Oncorhynchus mykiss (anadromous Rainbow Trout) with the goal of strengthening our understanding of the well‐documented poor marine survival of Puget Sound steelhead. We evaluated how sensitive estimates of productivity and survival were to the uncertainty associated with smolt trap enumerations, redd survey methodology, estimates of fish per redd, and estimates of smolt production by resident Rainbow Trout in order to clarify causes of poor steelhead survival in this area. We show that from 2004 to 2014, estimates of both freshwater productivity and marine survival were highly sensitive to estimates of fish per redd used to expand redd counts, as well as error around smolt abundance estimates. Regardless, uncertainty associated with these inputs did not explain the low survival and high productivity observed for Nisqually River steelhead relative to other populations. In addition, we identified progeny from anadromous mothers upstream of what was previously considered a barrier, and we also documented that a proportion of steelhead smolts (N = 4/43) originated from resident mothers (Rainbow Trout). While these results indicated an underestimation in the total number of steelhead redds counted each year and an overestimation of steelhead progeny enumerated at smolt traps, they had little impact on estimates of survival and productivity. Results from the current study support previous work reporting poor marine survival for populations of Puget Sound steelhead and highlight the sympatric relationship between resident and anadromous life histories of O. mykiss. Overall, our study supports a management strategy that protects both the anadromous and fluvial forms of O. mykiss, prioritizes habitat improvements that promote freshwater productivity, and increases research focused on identifying causes of poor marine survival.
Characterization, Processing, and Application of Heavy Fuel Oil Ash, an Industrial Waste Material – A Review
Authors: Basha Shaik Inayath , Aziz Abdul , Maslehuddin M. , Ahmad Shamsad , Hakeem Abbas Saeed , Rahman Mohammad Mizanur
Published: October 2020

Heavy fuel oil ash (HFOA) is generated as an industrial waste material during the combustion of heavy fuel oil in power/desalination plants. With increasing energy demands, a significant volume of HFOA is generated. It is generally disposed of in landfills, causing environmental pollution, as it contains several toxic elements. Recently, efforts were made towards developing strategies for reusing industrial waste materials and creating value‐added products from the waste materials. Despite significant information available in the literature on the utilization of HFOA, there is still a need for a thorough and systematic review on the characterization and utilization of HFOA in various applications. Consequently, this paper aims to present a critical review of the literature on HFOA generation, its chemical composition, physical properties, morphology, and applications. It is encouraging to note that HFOA has been used in several potential applications, such as the preparation of activated carbon and carbon nanotubes, metal recovery, environmental pollutant removal, polymer composites and construction materials, etc. However, the development of several value‐added materials utilizing HFOA and its applications in other areas such as coatings, cathodic protection systems, and phase change materialswould emerge as a new topic of research. It is expected that this review will act as a precursor for further research on the use of HFOA in industrial applications. Since the use of HFOA will lead to environmental, economic, and technical benefits, research in the utilization of this industrial waste material is highly recommended.
A lesson in teaching English while White
Authors: Ennser‐Kananen Johanna
Published: October 2020

This article offers a close analysis of a 90‐minute teaching sequence in an English as a foreign language classroom of an adult basic education program for refugee‐background learners in a Finnish community college. The White European‐heritage teacher, the author of the article, researcher on‐site, and substitute teacher at that point, taught a lesson with a focus on ownership of English to a group of about 15 adult learners of color from mostly Middle Eastern and African backgrounds. She used peer‐supported discourse analysis of the lesson transcript to better understand the processes of Whiteness that interfered with students’ learning and engagement during the lesson. This revealed that the researcher‐teacher’s discourses and practices erased racial differences between her and the learners, perpetuated Eurocentric ideologies of argumentation, and positioned her as “white listening subject” (Flores & Rosa, 2015a) vis‐à‐vis the students. A theoretical lens of critical Whiteness pedagogy (e.g., Matias & Mackey, 2016) helps understand these findings within larger racist and Eurocentric structures of educational systems and socialization. Each finding feeds into recommendations for teachers and teacher educators, particularly those who received their education in predominantly White institutions but work in racially and culturally diverse contexts.
Macro X‐ray fluorescence scanning, multi‐ and hyperspectral imaging study of multiple layers of paintings on paneled vault in the church of Le Quillio (France)
Authors: Laclavetine Kilian , Giovannacci David , Radepont Marie , Michelin Anne , Tournié Aurélie , Belhadj Oulfa , Andraud Christine , Nowik Witold
Published: October 2020

During initial conservator's investigation of paneled wooden vault of the church in Le Quillio, 17th century paintings, hidden behind painted canvas nailed on the panels were discovered. A closer look on these paintings and some exposure windows showed the presence of an older paint layer. This layer corresponds to the first vault decoration, dating back all the way at the end of 15th century, existence of which was attested by written sources. However, the conservation state of the original pictorial layer was unknown, so it was not possible to make a decision to uncover it without further information acquired, preferably, noninvasively. Examination of different layers was performed by extracting, processing and cross‐referencing the information from the complementary data obtained from macro X‐ray fluorescence scanning as well as multi‐ and hyperspectral imaging. This allowed to characterize the mineral composition of different layers and to attribute them respectively to the end of 15th century original painting, the 17th century overpaint and to the later 19th century interventions corresponding rather to a large retouching or restoration. Our study also showed the particularities of the mounting of panels, as some parts on the first decoration's paint seem to be partially discontinued between successive panels and may attest to the exchange of panels between different parts of the vault. This pilot study was conducted on an only small part of the large vault (0.4% of the 32 m2). Further, more extensive investigations will be required to better understand this complex object and its complex history.
Holographic Wilsonian renormalization of a heavy quark moving through a strongly coupled plasma
Authors: Gutiez Diego , Hoyos Carlos
Published: October 2020

Abstract

A heavy quark moving through a strongly coupled deconfined plasma has a holographic dual description as a string moving in a black brane geometry. We apply the holographic Wilsonian renormalization method to derive a holographic effective string action dual to the heavy quark. The effective action only depends on the geometry between the black brane horizon and a cutoff localized in the radial direction, corresponding to the IR of the dual theory. We derive RG flow equations for the coefficients in the effective action and show that the force acting on the heavy quark is independent of the position of the cutoff. All the information about the UV is hidden in integration constants of the RG flow equations. This type of approach could be used to improve semi-holographic models where the UV is described by perturbative QCD and the IR by a holographic model.
The p140Cap adaptor protein as a molecular hub to block cancer aggressiveness
Authors: Salemme Vincenzo , Angelini Costanza , Chapelle Jennifer , Centonze Giorgia , Natalini Dora , Morellato Alessandro , Taverna Daniela , Turco Emilia , Ala Ugo , Defilippi Paola
Published: October 2020

The p140Cap adaptor protein is a scaffold molecule encoded by the SRCIN1 gene, which is physiologically expressed in several epithelial tissues and in the neurons. However, p140Cap is also strongly expressed in a significant subset of cancers including breast cancer and neuroblastoma. Notably, cancer patients with high p140Cap expression in their primary tumors have a lower probability of developing a distant event and ERBB2-positive breast cancer sufferers show better survival. In neuroblastoma patients, SRCIN1 mRNA levels represent an independent risk factor, which is inversely correlated to disease aggressiveness. Consistent with clinical data, SRCIN1 gain or loss of function mouse models demonstrated that p140Cap may affect tumor growth and metastasis formation by controlling the signaling pathways involved in tumorigenesis and metastatic features. This study reviews data showing the relevance of SRCIN1/p140Cap in cancer patients, the impact of SRCIN1 status on p140Cap expression, the specific mechanisms through which p140Cap can limit cancer progression, the molecular functions regulated by p140Cap, along with the p140Cap interactome, to unveil its key role for patient stratification in clinics.
Optimization of WEDM for precise machining of novel developed Al6061-7.5% SiC squeeze-casted composite
Authors: Ishfaq Kashif , Anwar Saqib , Ali Muhammad Asad , Raza Muhammad Huzaifa , Farooq Muhammad Umar , Ahmad Shafiq , Pruncu Catalin I. , Saleh Mustafa , Salah Bashir
Published: October 2020

The emerging demands of industry for developing the novel materials with superior mechanical properties have successfully resulted in the development of distinct materials such as Al-matrix composites. Among these composites, newly developed Al6061-7.5% SiC holds promising mechanical characteristics. But, the SiC reinforcement in the Al-matrix makes the machining of this composite challenging, thus posing a serious concern regarding its effective utilization. In this research, high-speed wire electric discharge machining (WEDM) was employed for the precise machining of a squeeze casted Al6061-7.5% SiC composite. The cutting performance of the WEDM was assessed in terms of roughness (SR), cutting rate (Cs) and kerf width (KW). Experimentation was performed according to the response surface methodology. The experimental findings were thoroughly investigated using statistical, optical and scanning electron microscopic (SEM) analyses. It has been revealed that the voltage is most influential/contributing parameter (having a percentage contribution of 25%) for controlling theSRduring WEDM of Al6061-7.5% SiC composite, whereas for theCSandKW, pulse and current are the major contributing control variables with percentage contributions of 90% and 84%, respectively. At low magnitude of both current and voltages, the surface quality is improved up to 33.3%. The SEM and optical microscopic evidences reveal shallow craters, small size melt re-deposits and micro globules on the machined surface at lower settings of both the said variables. Contrarily, for achieving higher cutting speed, high values of current and voltage along with low pulse are deemed essential. In case ofKW, low magnitude of current and voltage along with smaller pulse yields 20% reduction in the kerf width. The analyses revealed the conflicting nature of the studied output responses (SR,CsandKW). Therefore, multi-objective genetic algorithm (MOGA) was used to find a parametric combination. The best combination of WEDM input parameters found is current = 3 A, voltage = 84.999 V and pulse = 10 mu. This combination gives a minimumSRof 5.775 μm with aKWof 0.3111 mm at aCSof 5.885 mm/min. The suitability of the MOGA-proposed parametric combination was witnessed through confirmation trials. Furthermore, the parametric effects have also been mathematically quantified with respect to the defined machinability parameters.
Urinary incontinence during pregnancy: prevalence, experience of bother, beliefs, and help-seeking behavior
Authors: Moossdorff-Steinhauser Heidi F. A. , Berghmans Bary C. M. , Spaanderman Marc E. A. , Bols Esther M. J.
Published: October 2020

Introduction and hypothesis

Pregnancy and delivery are thought to induce urinary incontinence (UI), but its clinical impact is less known. Therefore, we investigated the prevalence of self-reported UI, level of experience of bother, and beliefs to gain a greater understanding of help-seeking behavior in adult pregnant women.

Methods

A digital survey shared on social media was used for recruitment. The survey consists of: (1) demographic variables, (2) International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICIQ-UI SF), (3) ICIQ Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Quality of Life (ICIQ-LUTSqol), and (4) questions on beliefs and help-seeking behavior. For analysis, descriptive statistics and the independent samples t-test were used to determine differences between help- and non-help-seekers.

Results

Four hundred seven women were eligible for data analysis. The prevalence of UI rises from 55.1% in the first to 70.1% in the third trimester, with an overall prevalence of 66.8%. Nearly 43.0% of the respondents reported UI occurring once a week or less; 92.5% of women lost a small amount; 90% reported slight to moderate impact on quality of life. Only 13.1% of the respondents sought help for their UI. The main reasons for not seeking help were: minimal bother and the idea that UI would resolve by itself. Help-seeking women showed significantly higher scores than non-help-seeking women regarding ICIQ-UI SF (p < 0.001), ICIQ-LUTSqol (p ≤ 0.001), and interference in daily life (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

During pregnancy, UI affects two out of three women, but only one in eight women sought professional help. Non-help-seeking women experience less bother.
Min–max theory for free boundary minimal hypersurfaces II: general Morse index bounds and applications
Authors: Guang Qiang , Li Martin Man-chun , Wang Zhichao , Zhou Xin
Published: October 2020

For any smooth Riemannian metric on an $$(n+1)$$

(
n
+
1
)

-dimensional compact manifold with boundary $$(M,\partial M)$$

(
M
,
∂
M
)

where $$3\le (n+1)\le 7$$

3
≤
(
n
+
1
)
≤
7

, we establish general upper bounds for the Morse index of free boundary minimal hypersurfaces produced by min–max theory in the Almgren–Pitts setting. We apply our Morse index estimates to prove that for almost every (in the $$C^\infty $$

C
∞

Baire sense) Riemannan metric, the union of all compact, properly embedded free boundary minimal hypersurfaces is dense in M. If $$\partial M$$

∂
M

is further assumed to have a strictly mean convex point, we show the existence of infinitely many compact, properly embedded free boundary minimal hypersurfaces whose boundaries are non-empty. Our results prove a conjecture of Yau for generic metrics in the free boundary setting.
Effect of storage temperature on volatile marker compounds in cured loins fermented with Staphylococcus carnosus by brine injection
Authors: Bosse Ramona , Wirth Melanie , Weiss Jochen , Gibis Monika
Published: October 2020

In this study, the influence of low (5 °C), intermediate (15 °C) and high (25 °C) storage temperatures on the profile of volatile compounds of North European cured loins fermented with Staphylococcus carnosus strains was investigated. In this context, proteolytic activity, bacterial growth, key volatile compounds and sensory attributes were studied. In conclusion, storage temperature significantly affected the volatile marker compounds. A multiple regression indicated significant effects of seven volatile compounds (acetophenone, benzaldehyde, butanone, 3-methylbutanal, 1-octen-3-ol, nonanal and pentanone) on the overall odor (R2 = 95.9%) and overall flavor (R2 = 81.1%). The sum of the marker volatiles aldehydes, ketones and alcohol increased with rising temperatures and the highest amounts of the odor active 3-methylbutanal up to 155 and 166 ng/g meat were detected in high temperature-stored loins. Moreover, the addition of S. carnosus strain LTH 3838 showed maximum effect at 5 °C-storage temperature in comparison to the control.
High-throughput immunogenetic typing of koalas suggests possible link between MHC alleles and cancers
Authors: Quigley Bonnie L. , Tzipori Galit , Nilsson Karen , Timms Peter
Published: October 2020

Characterizing the allelic diversity within major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes is an important way of determining the potential genetic resilience of a population to infectious and ecological pressures. For the koala (Phascolarctos cinereus), endemic diseases, anthropogenic factors and climate change are all placing increased pressure on this vulnerable marsupial. To increase the ability of researchers to study MHC genetics in koalas, this study developed and tested a high-throughput immunogenetic profiling methodology for targeting MHC class I UA and UC genes and MHC class II DAB, DBB, DCB and DMB genes in a population of 82 captive koalas. This approach was validated by comparing the determined allelic profiles from 36 koala family units (18 dam-sire-joey units and 18 parent-joey pairs), finding 96% overall congruence within family profiles. Cancers are a significant cause of morbidity in koalas and the risk factors remain undetermined. Our analysis of this captive population revealed several novel MHC alleles, including a potential link between the DBB*03 allele and a risk of developing cancer. This method offers a reliable, high-throughput protocol for expanded study into koala immunogenetics.
A Protocol is not Enough: Enhanced Recovery Program‐Based Care and Clinician Adherence Associated with Shorter Stay After Colorectal Surgery
Authors: Byrne Ben E. , Faiz Omar D. , Bottle Alex , Aylin Paul , Vincent Charles A.
Published: October 2020

Background

Randomised trials have shown an Enhanced Recovery Program (ERP) can shorten stay after colorectal surgery. Previous research has focused on patient compliance neglecting the role of care providers. National data on implementation and adherence to standardised care are lacking. We examined care organisation and delivery including the ERP, and correlated this with clinical outcomes.

Methods

A cross‐sectional questionnaire was administered to surgeons and nurses in August–October 2015. All English National Health Service Trusts providing elective colorectal surgery were invited. Responses frequencies and variation were examined. Exploratory factor analysis was performed to identify underlying features of care. Standardised factor scores were correlated with elective clinical outcomes of length of stay, mortality and readmission rates from 2013–15.

Results

218/600 (36.3%) postal responses were received from 84/90 (93.3%) Trusts that agreed to participate. Combined with email responses, 301 surveys were analysed. 281/301 (93.4%) agreed or strongly agreed that they had a standardised, ERP‐based care protocol. However, 182/301 (60.5%) indicated all consultants managed post‐operative oral intake similarly. After factor analysis, higher hospital average ERP‐based care standardisation and clinician adherence score were significantly correlated with reduced length of stay, as well as higher ratings of teamwork and support for complication management.

Conclusions

Standardised, ERP‐based care was near universal, but clinician adherence varied markedly. Units reporting higher levels of clinician adherence achieved the lowest length of stay. Having a protocol is not enough. Careful implementation and adherence by all of the team is vital to achieve the best results.
Prophylaxis, diagnosis and therapy of infections in patients undergoing high-dose chemotherapy and autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation. 2020 update of the recommendations of the Infectious Diseases Working Party (AGIHO) of the German Society of Hematology and Medical Oncology (DGHO)
Authors: Christopeit Maximilian , Schmidt-Hieber Martin , Sprute Rosanne , Buchheidt Dieter , Hentrich Marcus , Karthaus Meinolf , Penack Olaf , Ruhnke Markus , Weissinger Florian , Cornely Oliver A. , Maschmeyer Georg
Published: October 2020

To ensure the safety of high-dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplantation (HDC/ASCT), evidence-based recommendations on infectious complications after HDC/ASCT are given. This guideline not only focuses on patients with haematological malignancies but also addresses the specifics of HDC/ASCT patients with solid tumours or autoimmune disorders. In addition to HBV and HCV, HEV screening is nowadays mandatory prior to ASCT. For patients with HBs antigen and/or anti-HBc antibody positivity, HBV nucleic acid testing is strongly recommended for 6 months after HDC/ASCT or for the duration of a respective maintenance therapy. Prevention of VZV reactivation by vaccination is strongly recommended. Cotrimoxazole for the prevention of Pneumocystis jirovecii is supported. Invasive fungal diseases are less frequent after HDC/ASCT, therefore, primary systemic antifungal prophylaxis is not recommended. Data do not support a benefit of protective room ventilation e.g. HEPA filtration. Thus, AGIHO only supports this technique with marginal strength. Fluoroquinolone prophylaxis is recommended to prevent bacterial infections, although a survival advantage has not been demonstrated.
Lactobacillus Cell Surface Proteins Involved in Interaction with Mucus and Extracellular Matrix Components
Authors: Muscariello Lidia , De Siena Barbara , Marasco Rosangela
Published: October 2020

The gut microbiota is a complex microbial ecosystem where bacteria, through mutual interactions, cooperate in maintaining of wellbeing and health. Lactobacilli are among the most important constituents of human and animal intestinal microbiota and include many probiotic strains. Their presence ensures protection from invasion of pathogens, as well as stimulation of the immune system and protection of the intestinal flora, often exerted through the ability to interact with mucus and extracellular matrix components. The main factors responsible for mediating adhesion of pathogens and commensals to the gut are cell surface proteins that recognize host targets, as mucus layer and extracellular matrix proteins. In the last years, several adhesins have been reported to be involved in lactobacilli–host interaction often miming the same mechanism used by pathogens.
“Topographic Shift”: a new digital approach to evaluating topographic changes of the female breast
Authors: Lotter Luisa , Brébant Vanessa , Eigenberger Andreas , Hartmann Robin , Mueller Karolina , Baringer Magnus , Prantl Lukas , Schiltz Daniel
Published: October 2020

Purpose

To assess precise topographic changes of the breast, objective documentation and evaluation of pre- and postoperative results are crucial. New technologies for mapping the body using digital, three-dimensional surface measurements have offered novel ways to numerically assess the female breast. Due to the lack of clear demarcation points of the breast contour, the selection of landmarks on the breast is highly dependent on the examiner, and, therefore, is prone to error when conducting before-after comparisons of the same breast. This study describes an alternative to volumetric measurements, focusing on topographic changes of the female breast, based on three-dimensional scans.

Method

The study was designed as an interventional prospective study of 10 female volunteers who had planned on having aesthetic breast augmentation with anatomical, textured implants. Three dimensional scans of the breasts were performed intraoperatively, first without and then with breast implants. The topographic change was determined as the mean distance between two three-dimensional layers before and after augmentation. This mean distance is defined as the Topographic Shift.

Results

The mean implant volume was 283 cc (SD = 68.6 cc, range = 210–395 cc). The mean Topographic Shift was 7.4 mm (SD = 1.9 mm, range = 4.8–10.7 mm). The mean Topographic Shifts per quadrant were: I: 8.0 mm (SD = 3.3 mm); II: 9.2 mm (SD = 3.1 mm); III: 6.9 mm (SD = 3.5 mm); IV: 1.9 mm (SD = 4.3 mm).

Conclusion

The Topographic Shift, describing the mean distance between two three-dimensional layers (for example before and after a volume changing therapy), is a new approach that can be used for assessing topographic changes of a body area. It was found that anatomical, textured breast implants cause a topographic change, particularly on the upper breast, in quadrant II, the décolleté.
Long-term results of cochlear implantation in children with congenital single-sided deafness
Authors: Rauch Ann-Kathrin , Arndt Susan , Aschendorff Antje , Beck Rainer , Speck Iva , Ketterer Manuel Christoph , Jakob Till Fabian , Hassepass Frederike
Published: October 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this retrospective study was to investigate the outcome and critical age of cochlear implantation in congenital single-sided deafness (SSD).

Methods

11 children with congenital SSD were implanted with a cochlear implant (CI). Auditory performance was measured through the results of speech discrimination, subjective assessment by the Categories of auditory performance (CAP) score, the Speech, Spatial and Qualities scale questionnaire (SSQ) and the German version of the IOI-HA [Internationales Inventar zur Evaluation von Hörgeräten (IIEH, version for CI)].

Results

Long-term follow-up [median: 3 years and 5 months (3;5 years)] revealed that nine children use their CI (> 8 h/day) and two became nonusers. In children aged below 3;2 years at surgery, there was a substantial long-term increase in speech discrimination and subjective benefit. Children over 4;4 years of age at CI surgery improved partially in audiological/subjective measurements. Among children above 5 years, the SSQ score did not improve despite further slight improvement in speech discrimination long-term.

Conclusion

Our data suggest a critical age for CI surgery below 3 years in children with congenital SSD for successful hearing rehabilitation. It is mandatory to identify children with SSD as early as bilaterally deaf children.
Conditional knockdown of integrin beta-3 reveals its involvement in osteolytic and soft tissue lesions of breast cancer skeletal metastasis
Authors: Kovacheva Marineta , Zepp Michael , Berger Stefan , Berger Martin R.
Published: October 2020

Integrin β3 (ITGB3) is probably related to skeletal metastasis, which is the most frequent complication in breast cancer progression. We aimed to define its role and suitability as target for anti-metastatic therapy. We generated two MDA-MB-231 cell clones with conditional miRNA-mediated ITGB3 knockdown for analyzing the resulting effects in vitro regarding mRNA expression, proliferation and migration, as well the impact on skeletal metastasis in a nude rat model. Furthermore, ITGB3 levels were analyzed in exosomes from plasma of rats with skeletal metastases, and from MDA-MB-231 cells incubated with these vesicles, as well as from exosomes secreted by cells with conditional ITGB3 knockdown. This inhibition of ITGB3 expression decreased cellular proliferation and more distinctly inhibited cellular migration. Reduction and even complete remissions of respective soft tissue and osteolytic lesions were detected after ITGB3 knockdown in vivo. Furthermore, ITGB3 levels were increased in exosomes isolated from plasma of rats harboring MDA-MB-231 lesions as well as in respective cells incubated with these vesicles in vitro. ITGB3 was distinctly decreased in exosomes from cells with ITGB3 knockdown. The observed in vitro and in vivo anti-ITGB3 effects can be explained by downregulation of specific genes, which have roles in angiogenesis (NPTN, RRM2), tumor growth (NPTN), energy metabolism (ISCA1), cytokinesis (SEPT11), migration (RRM2, STX6), cell proliferation, invasiveness, senescence, tumorigenesis (RRM2) and vesicle trafficking (SEPT11, STX6). ITGB3 has a role in breast cancer skeletal metastasis via gene expression modulation, as mirrored for ITGB3 in exosomes, thus it could serve as target for anti-metastatic therapy.
Outpatient before inpatient—the good, the bad and the ugly
Authors: Vuong Kim Tai , Guglielmetti Laura C. , Albert Thomas G. , Brillat Arce Waldemar , Staerkle Ralph F. , Vuille-dit-Bille Raphael N.
Published: October 2020

Background

In January 2019 the Swiss Federal Department of Home Affairs defined a group of six selected surgical interventions to be performed on an outpatient basis. The aim of this paper is to assess surgeons’ opinions on patient safety, costs and treatment based on this new regulation.

Methods

An online survey was sent electronically to all 942 members of the Swiss Society of Surgery between August and October 2019.

Results

About half of the participants think the new regulation could harm patients (52%) and will lead to lower patient satisfaction (49%). Whereas half of the participants expect a reduction in health care costs (52%), most expect surgeons to earn less due to the new regulation (82%). About three quarters (73%) of the participants expect the new regulation to negatively affect surgical resident education. More than half (62%) of the participants assume that diagnoses allowing reimbursement for inpatient treatment (such as, e.g., bilateral instead of unilateral inguinal hernia) could be made more generously. Accordingly, 70% assume that the new regulation may result in not necessarily indispensable or possibly unnecessarily extended interventions (such as, e.g., bilateral inguinal hernia repair). Furthermore, most (86%) participants fear that the new regulation could possibly lead to hospitals/surgeons rejecting patients.

Conclusion

Whereas about half of the participants expect a reduction in health care costs, about two thirds fear that more generous diagnoses and not necessarily indispensable or possibly unnecessarily extended interventions could be performed due to the new regulation demanding outpatient care for said surgical interventions.
Superbase-based protic ionic liquids for cellulose filament spinning
Authors: Elsayed Sherif , Hummel Michael , Sawada Daisuke , Guizani Chamseddine , Rissanen Marja , Sixta Herbert
Published: October 2020

Lyocell fibers have received increased attention during the recent years. This is due to their high potential to satisfy the rising market demand for cellulose-based textiles in a sustainable way. Typically, this technology adopts a dry-jet wet spinning process, which offers regenerated cellulose fibers of excellent mechanical properties. Compared to the widely exploited viscose process, the lyocell technology fosters an eco-friendly process employing green direct solvents that can be fully recovered with low environmental impact. N-methylmorpholine N-oxide (NMMO) is a widely known direct solvent that has proven its success in commercializing the lyocell process. Its regenerated cellulose fibers exhibit higher tenacities and chain orientation compared to viscose fibers. Recently, protic superbase-based ionic liquids (ILs) have also been found to be suitable solvents for lyocell-type fiber spinning. Similar to NMMO, fibers of high mechanical properties can be spun from the cellulose-IL solutions at lower spinning temperatures. In this article, we study the different aspects of producing regenerated cellulose fibers using NMMO and relevant superbase-based ILs. The selected ILs are 1,5-diazabicyclo[4.3.0]non-5-ene-1-ium acetate ([DBNH]OAc), 7-methyl-1,5,7-triazabicyclo[4.4.0] dec-5-enium acetate ([mTBDH]OAc) and 1,8-diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-enium acetate ([DBUH]OAc). All ILs were used to dissolve a 13 wt% (PHK) cellulose pulp. The study covers the fiber spinning process, including the rheological characterization of the various cellulose solutions. Moreover, we discuss the properties of the produced fibers such as mechanical performance, macromolecular properties and morphology.

Graphic abstract
The two dimensions of Italian academics’ public engagement
Authors: Anzivino Monia , Ceravolo Flavio A. , Rostan Michele
Published: October 2020

The article aims at investigating Italian academics’ Public Engagement highlighting its two dimensions, namely “Local Community Engagement” (LCE) and “General Political Engagement” (GPE). It is based on the results of a national survey on academics’ third mission activities carried out in the year 2015/2016 collecting information from a representative sample of 5,123 respondents working at 62 universities, with a response rate of 34.2%. In addition to detecting distinct dimensions of academics’ Public Engagement, data analysis shows that Italian academics are much more involved in LCE activities than in GPE ones. Although both LCE and GPE are influenced by many common factors, such as academic rank, discipline and being involved in other third mission activities, they also display peculiar traits: LCE activities are more likely to involve academic women while GPE are more likely to be carried out by older academics; LCE activities appear to be context-dependent while GPE activities are not. Hence, the article offers a contribution to a better understanding of the different goals of Public Engagement activities and of their spatial dimension.
Empirical analysis of session-based recommendation algorithms
Authors: Ludewig Malte , Mauro Noemi , Latifi Sara , Jannach Dietmar
Published: October 2020

Recommender systems are tools that support online users by pointing them to potential items of interest in situations of information overload. In recent years, the class of session-based recommendation algorithms received more attention in the research literature. These algorithms base their recommendations solely on the observed interactions with the user in an ongoing session and do not require the existence of long-term preference profiles. Most recently, a number of deep learning-based (“neural”) approaches to session-based recommendations have been proposed. However, previous research indicates that today’s complex neural recommendation methods are not always better than comparably simple algorithms in terms of prediction accuracy. With this work, our goal is to shed light on the state of the art in the area of session-based recommendation and on the progress that is made with neural approaches. For this purpose, we compare twelve algorithmic approaches, among them six recent neural methods, under identical conditions on various datasets. We find that the progress in terms of prediction accuracy that is achieved with neural methods is still limited. In most cases, our experiments show that simple heuristic methods based on nearest-neighbors schemes are preferable over conceptually and computationally more complex methods. Observations from a user study furthermore indicate that recommendations based on heuristic methods were also well accepted by the study participants. To support future progress and reproducibility in this area, we publicly share the session-rec evaluation framework that was used in our research.
Large-area flexible nanostripe electrodes featuring plasmon hybridization engineering
Authors: Mennucci Carlo , Chowdhury Debasree , Manzato Giacomo , Barelli Matteo , Chittofrati Roberto , Martella Christian , Buatier de Mongeot Francesco
Published: October 2020

Multifunctional flexible Au electrodes based on one-dimensional (1D) arrays of plasmonic gratings are nanofabricated over large areas with an engineered variant of laser interference lithography optimized for low-cost transparent templates. Au nanostripe (NS) arrays achieve sheet resistance in the order of 20 Ohm/square on large areas (∼ cm2) and are characterized by a strong and dichroic plasmonic response which can be easily tuned across the visible (VIS) to near-infrared (NIR) spectral range by tailoring their cross-sectional morphology. Stacking vertically a second nanostripe, separated by a nanometer scale dielectric gap, we form near-field coupled Au/SiO2/Au dimers which feature hybridization of their localized plasmon resonances, strong local field-enhancements and a redshift of the resonance towards the NIR range. The possibility to combine excellent transport properties and optical transparency on the same plasmonic metasurface template is appealing in applications where low-energy photon management is mandatory like e.g., in plasmon enhanced spectroscopies or in photon harvesting for ultrathin photovoltaic devices. The remarkable lateral order of the plasmonic NS gratings provides an additional degree of freedom for tailoring the optical response of the multifunctional electrodes via the excitation of surface lattice resonances, a Fano-like coupling between the broad localised plasmonic resonances and the collective sharp Rayleigh modes.
Clinical expert consensus document on rotational atherectomy from the Japanese association of cardiovascular intervention and therapeutics
Authors: Sakakura Kenichi , Ito Yoshiaki , Shibata Yoshisato , Okamura Atsunori , Kashima Yoshifumi , Nakamura Shigeru , Hamazaki Yuji , Ako Junya , Yokoi Hiroyoshi , Kobayashi Yoshio , Ikari Yuji
Published: October 2020

Rotational atherectomy (RA) has been widely used for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to severely calcified lesions. As compared to other countries, RA in Japan has uniquely developed with the aid of greater usage of intravascular imaging devices such as intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) or optical coherence tomography (OCT). IVUS has been used to understand the guidewire bias and to decide appropriate burr sizes during RA, whereas OCT can also provide the thickness of calcification. Owing to such abundant experiences, Japanese RA operators modified RA techniques and reported unique evidences regarding RA. The Task Force on Rotational Atherectomy of the J apanese Association of Cardiovascular Intervention and Therapeutics (CVIT) has now proposed the expert consensus document to summarize the contemporary techniques and evidences regarding RA.
Depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation in young adults 5 years after undergoing bariatric surgery as adolescents
Authors: Järvholm Kajsa , Olbers Torsten , Peltonen Markku , Marcus Claude , Flodmark Carl-Erik , Gronowitz Eva , Dahlgren Jovanna , Karlsson Jan
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) is increasingly used in adolescents. The aim was to explore symptoms of depression and anxiety in young adults over 5 years’ follow-up after undergoing MBS.

Methods

Beck Depression Inventory-2 and the Beck Anxiety Inventory were used to assess symptoms of depression and anxiety in 62 patients 1, 2, and 5 years after having Roux-en-Y gastric bypass at 13–18 years of age. Mental health, eating-related problems, and weight outcomes were tested for association with suicidal ideation at the 5-year follow-up.

Results

At the 5-year follow-up, the mean score for depression was 11.4 (± 12.4), indicating minimal symptoms of depression. The mean score for anxiety was 12.82 (± 11.50), indicating mild anxiety symptoms. Still, several participants reported moderate or severe symptoms of depression (26%) and anxiety (32%). Women reported more symptoms than men (P = 0.03 and 0.04). No significant changes were found in self-reported symptoms of depression and anxiety between the 1-year and the 5-year follow-up (P = 0.367 and 0.934). Suicidal ideation was reported by 16% at the 5-year follow-up. Participants reporting suicidal ideation had lost significantly less excess weight than participants without suicidal ideation (P = 0.009).

Conclusion

Five years after adolescent MBS, a substantial minority still struggles with mental health issues, and women are more burdened than men. Our results indicate an association between less optimal weight loss and suicidal ideation 5 years after MBS. The findings emphasize the importance of offering long-term follow-up and mental health treatment several years after MBS.

Level of evidence

Level III, cohort study.

Clinical trial registration

The study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT00289705). First posted February 10, 2006.