bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flexible core/shelled PPy@PANI nanotube porous films for hybrid supercapacitors
Authors: Zhang Gaini , Zhang Jianhua , Li Wenbin , Wang Jingjing , Li Xifei
Published: October 2021

Flexibility of the films and the limited ion transport in the vertical direction of film highly restrict the development of flexible supercapacitors. Herein, we have developed hybrid porous films consisting of N-doped holey graphene nanosheets (NHGR) with abundant in-plane nanopores and the vertically aligned polyaniline nanowires arrays on polypyrrole nanotubes (PPy@PANI) via a two-step oxidative polymerization strategy and vacuum filtration. The rational design can efficiently shorten the diffusion path of electrons/ions, alleviate volume variation of electrodes during cycling, enhance electric conductivity of the hybrids, and while offer abundant active interfacial sites for electrochemical reaction. Benefiting from the distinctive structural and compositional merits, the obtained PPy@PANI/NHGR film electrode manifests an excellent electrochemical properties in terms of specific capacity (1348 mF cm−2 at a current density of 1 mA cm−2), rate capability (81.2% capacitance retention from 1 to 30 mA cm−2), and cycling stability (capacitance retention of 73.7% at 20 mA cm−2 after 7000 cycles). Matched with NHGR negative electrode, the assembled flexible all-solid-state asymmetric supercapacitor displays a remarkable areal capacitance of 359 mF cm−2 at 5 mA cm−2, maximum areal energy density of 112.2 μWh cm−2 at 3.747 mW cm−2, and good flexibility at various bending angles while preserving stable cycling performance. The result shows the PPy@PANI/NHGR film with high flexibility and 3D ions transport channels is highly attractive for flexible energy storage devices.
Electron-deficient TVT unit-based D–A polymer donor for high-efficiency thick-film OSCs
Authors: Zhang Liting , Chang Yilin , Zhu Xiangwei , Yang Chen , Shi Yanan , Zhang Jianqi , Sun Xiangnan , Lu Kun , Wei Zhixiang
Published: October 2021

As the power conversion efficiencies of organic solar cells (OSCs) have been improved continuously in recent years, more attention will be paid to the industrial production and practical application of OSCs. However, there are still many problems to be solved in the process of large-scale production. Among them, reducing the costs of the materials and enhancing the film-thickness tolerance of the active layer are the two key points. Therefore, it is urgent to develop organic semiconductor materials which are easy to synthesize and suitable for the construction of high-efficiency, thick-film OSCs. In this work, we have focused on the (E)−2-[2-(thiophen-2-yl)vinyl]thiophene (TVT) unit because of its unique coplanar structure. And we noticed that TVT was mostly used as an electron-donating unit in the previous reports. However, we have modified TVT into electron-withdrawing unit by the introduction of fluorine atoms/ester groups. And two new donor–acceptor (D–A) copolymers have been obtained by combining the electron-withdrawing TVT unit with benzo[2,1-b:4,5-b′]dithiophene (BDT) unit. Among them, the polymer based on the ester modified TVT unit presents excellent photovoltaic performance by virtue of its good solubility and preferable molecular stacking mode, and the corresponding devices also show extraordinarily high-thickness tolerance. The emergence of this new electron-withdrawing TVT unit will undoubtedly further promote the development of low-cost, high-efficiency, thick-film OSCs.
Efficient production and transport of OH radicals in spatial afterglow of atmospheric-pressure DC glow discharge using intersecting helium flows
Authors: Shirai Naoki , Owada Hiroki , Sasaki Koichi
Published: October 2021

An efficient method for generating OH radicals in the spatial afterglow of atmospheric-pressure plasma was investigated. The method employed a DC glow discharge along two intersecting helium flows in air. Tiny helium flows were ejected from two metal nozzles with inner diameters of 0.5 mm, and they intersected at a distance of 3–5 mm from the nozzles. A stable glow discharge was formed along the intersecting helium flows by applying a DC high voltage between the two nozzles. It was shown by laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy that an origin of OH radicals was water vapor admixed into the intersection point of the two helium flows from ambient air. OH radicals were transported from the intersection toward the spatial afterglow along the coalesced helium flow. This is a distinctive feature of the present plasma source, by which we can obtain the stream of OH radicals in the outside of the active plasma zone even though we employ the DC discharge. In addition, we observed the production of OH radicals in the spatial afterglow. We presume that the production process of OH radicals in the spatial afterglow is dissociative electron attachment to H2O2.
Current–voltage characteristics of silicon based solar cells in the presence of cracks: MD simulations
Authors: Varma Siruvuri S D V S S , Budarapu P R , Paggi M
Published: October 2021

The presence of micro-cracks in solar cells hinders the movement of charges leading to charge accumulation around the crack surfaces. Cracks grow during real-time operation and also new cracks will be formed, leading to further charge accumulation. In this study, the influence of cracks on the movement of charges and hence the current–voltage characteristics of silicon based solar cells is investigated through molecular dynamics simulations. Simulations are performed considering a domain of dimensions 260.64 Å × 222.63 Å × 43.44 Å  with five different cases: (1) without any initial defects, (2) an edge crack, (3) a center crack, (4) two angled edge cracks and (5) two oblique cracks from a circular crack at the center of the domain, considering a time step of 1 fs. Charges of the atoms at a given time instant are estimated after charge equilibration. The electric current, voltage, and power are estimated based on the charges. As the crack starts propagating, the charge fluctuations of a group of atoms around the crack tip are observed to be in the range of

−
9
×

10

−
3

e to

−
6
×

10

−
3

e, where the highest fluctuation is noticed in case of angled edge cracks. The electric current for the same atoms is found to be fluctuating between −0.02 nA and −0.098 nA, peak fluctuations observed in the case of the edge crack. Similar ranges of charge and current without any initial crack are found to be: 0 × 10−3
e and 3 × 10−3
e, and 0 nA and 0.01 nA, respectively. This confirms that the presence of cracks can hinder the charge flow. Furthermore, the peak voltage estimated between two groups of charges: near and far away from the crack tip is found to be 1.24

×

10

−
22

V. Whereas, the peak voltage between two groups considered away from the crack tip is equal to

0.1
×

10

−
22

V, indicating that the potential difference is significant due to charge accumulation around the damaged areas. Moreover, the electric power associated with the group of atoms around the crack tip is observed to be fluctuating rapidly. The peak electrical power of the intact cell is estimated to be 2.14 nW, whereas it is dropped down to 31.93% in the presence of two inclined edge cracks. The electric power associated with a group of charges lying within the included region between two inclined cracks with a hole is observed to converge to zero, in agreement with the experimental observations in the literature.
Role of the separatrix density in the pedestal performance in deuterium low triangularity JET-ILW plasmas and comparison with JET-C
Authors: Frassinetti L. , Perez von Thun C. , Chapman B. , Fil A. , Hillesheim J.C. , Horvath L. , Huijsmans G.T.A. , Nyström H. , Parail V. , Saarelma S. , Szepesi G. , Viola B. , Bianchetti Morales R. , Dunne M. , Field A.R. , Flanagan J. , Fontdecaba J.M. , Hatch D. , Lomanowski B. , Maggi C.F. , Menmuir S. , Pamela S. , Roach C.M. , Rachlew E. , Solano E.R. , JET Contributors
Published: October 2021

A reduction of the pedestal pressure with increasing separatrix density over pedestal density (n
e
sep/n
e
ped) has been observed in JET. The physics behind this correlation is investigated. The correlation is due to two distinct mechanisms. The increase of n
e
sep/n
e
ped till ≈0.4 shifts the pedestal pressure radially outwards, decreasing the peeling-balloning stability and reducing the pressure height. The effect of the position saturates above n
e
sep/n
e
ped ≈ 0.4. For higher values, the reduction of the pedestal pressure is ascribed to increased turbulent transport and, likely, to resistive MHD effects. The increase of n
e
sep/n
e
ped above ≈0.4 reduces ∇n
e
/n
e, increasing η
e and the pedestal turbulent transport. This reduces the pressure gradient and the pedestal temperature, producing an increase in the pedestal resistivity. The work suggests that the increase in resistivity might destabilize resistive balloning modes, further reducing the pedestal stability.
The Dynamics of Crime Risk Perceptions
Authors: Salm Martin , Vollaard Ben
Published: October 2021

We study how residents form beliefs about the prevalence of crime in their neighborhood. We document the process of learning about local crime for a uniquely long period of 10 years after taking up residence. Our analysis is based on four successive waves of a large crime survey in the Netherlands matched with administrative register data for the complete history of places of residence between 1995 and 2011. We find that beliefs of residents are much more favorable shortly after their move into the neighborhood than they are longer after their move. The adjustments in beliefs only level off after many years. A large part of this adjustment in the years after a move can be explained by the accumulation of direct experiences with crime. Our findings show that victimization of crime is more than the outcome of a calculated risk; it is a costly form of learning about crime.
CD44-negative parietal–epithelial cell staining in minimal change disease: association with clinical features, response to corticosteroids and kidney outcome
Authors: Roca Neus , Jatem Elias , Abo Anabel , Santacana Maria , Cruz Alejandro , Madrid Álvaro , Fraga Gloria , Martin Marisa , Gonzalez Jorge , Martinez Cristina , Balius Anna , Segarra Alfons
Published: October 2021

Background

Activation of parietal–epithelial cells (PECs) with neo-expression of CD44 has been found to play a relevant role in the development of focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). The aim of this study was to analyse whether the expression of CD44 by PECs in biopsies of minimal change disease (MCD) is associated with the response to corticosteroids, with kidney outcomes and/or can be considered an early sign of FSGS.

Methods

This multicentric, retrospective study included paediatric and adult patients with MCD. Demographic, clinical and biochemical data were recorded, and biopsies were stained with anti-CD44 antibodies. The association between PECs, CD44 expression and the response to corticosteroids, and kidney outcomes were analysed using logistic, Kaplan–Meier and Cox regression analyses.

Results

A total of 54 patients were included: 35 (65%) <18 years and 19 (35%) adults. Mean follow-up was 68.3 ± 37.9 months. A total of 19/54 patients (35.2%) showed CD44-positive staining. CD44-positive patients were younger (14.5 ± 5 versus 21.5 ± 13, P = 0.006), and showed a higher incidence of steroid-resistance [11/19 (57.8%) versus 7/35 (20%), P = 0.021; odds ratio: 5.5 (95% confidence interval 1.6–18), P = 0.007] and chronic kidney disease [9/19 (47.3%) versus 6/35 (17.1%), P = 0.021; relative risk: 3.01 (95% confidence interval 1.07–8.5), P = 0.037]. Follow-up re-biopsies of native kidneys (n = 18), identified FSGS lesions in 10/12 (83.3%) of first-biopsy CD44-positive patients versus 1/6 (16.7%) of first-biopsy CD44-negative patients (P = 0.026).

Conclusions

In patients with a light microscopy pattern of MCD, CD44-positive staining of PECs is associated with a higher prevalence of steroid resistance and worse kidney outcomes, and can be considered an early sign of FSGS.
Primary hyperoxaluria type 1: pathophysiology and genetics
Authors: Fargue Sonia , Acquaviva Bourdain Cécile
Published: October 2021

Primary hyperoxaluria type 1 (PH1) is a rare genetic form of calcium oxalate kidney stone disease. It is caused by a deficiency in the liver-specific enzyme, alanine:glyoxylate aminotransferase (AGT), a pyridoxal-5′-phosphate (PLP)-dependent enzyme involved in the metabolism of glyoxylate. The excessive endogenous synthesis of oxalate that ensues leads to hyperoxaluria, and the crystallization of the poorly soluble calcium salt of oxalate is responsible for a severe kidney stone disease, which can progress to end-stage renal disease, systemic deposition of oxalate and death. Knowledge about metabolic precursors of glyoxylate and oxalate, molecular pathology of AGT and analytical methods for diagnosis and clinical assessment have allowed a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying PH1 and opened the door to new therapeutic strategies.
The first comprehensive database of germline pathogenic variants in East Asian cancer patients
Authors: Shi Xiaoshun , Li Ruidong , Zhai Jianxue , Chen Allen Menglin , Huang Kailing , Zheng Zhouxia , Chen Zhuona , Dong Xiaoyin , Liu Xiguang , Lu Di , Feng Siyang , Diao Dingwei , Ren Pengfei , Liu Zhaoguo , Morahan Grant , Cai Kaican
Published: October 2021

Pathogenic germline variants in cancer-associated genes are risk factors for cancer predisposition. However, systematic mining and summarizing of cancer pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants has not been performed for people of East Asian descent. This study aimed to investigate publicly available data to identify germline variants in East Asian cancer cohorts and compare them to variants in Caucasian cancer cohorts. Based on the data we retrieved, we built a comprehensive database, named COGVIC (Catalog of Germline Variants in Cancer). A total of 233 variants in the East Asian population were identified. The majority (87%) of genes with cancer-associated variants were not shared between the East Asian and Caucasian cohorts. This included pathogenic variants in BRCA2. Our study summarized the prevalence of germline variants in East Asian cancer cohorts and provides an easy-to-use online tool to explore germline mutations related to cancer susceptibility.

Database URL

http://www.cogvic.vip/
Subsidising the spread of COVID-19: Evidence from the UK’S Eat-Out-to-Help-Out Scheme*
Authors: Fetzer Thiemo
Published: October 2021

This paper documents that a large-scale government subsidy aimed at encouraging people to eat out in restaurants in the wake of the first 2020 COVID-19 wave in the United Kingdom has had a significant causal impact on new cases, accelerating the subsequent second COVID-19 wave. The scheme subsidised 50% off the cost of food and non-alcoholic drinks for an unlimited number of visits in participating restaurants on Mondays–Wednesdays from 3–31 August 2020. Areas with higher take-up saw both a notable increase in new COVID-19 infection clusters within a week of the scheme starting and a deceleration in infections within two weeks of the program ending. Similarly, areas that exhibited notable rainfall during the prime lunch and dinner hours on the days the scheme was active record lower infection incidence—a pattern that is also measurable in mobility data—and non-detectable on days during which the discount was not available or for rainfall outside the core lunch and dinner hours.
Is Living in an Ethnic Enclave Associated With Cognitive Function? Results From the Population Study of Chinese Elderly (PINE) in Chicago
Authors: Guo Man , Wang Yi , Xu Hanzhang , Li Mengting , Wu Bei , Dong Xinqi
Published: October 2021

Background and Objectives

Ethnic enclaves provide pivotal coping resources for immigrants, having important implications for cognitive health. This study examined the association between living in an ethnic enclave (i.e., Chinatown) and cognition, and potential moderating effect of education on such an association among Chinese older immigrants in the United States. We further examined subgroup differences based on preferred language (Mandarin, Cantonese, and Taishanese).

Research Designs and Methods

Data were derived from the Population Study of Chinese Elderly in Chicago (N = 3,105, mean age = 73). Global cognition, assessed by a battery including Mini-Mental State Examination, working memory, episodic memory, and executive function, was compared between those who lived in Chinatown (n = 1,870) and those who did not (n = 1,235). Linear regressions with interaction terms were performed in the entire sample and subsamples with different language preferences.

Results

Chinatown residents had significantly poorer cognition than non-Chinatown residents. Regression results identified both protective and risk factors for cognition associated with living in Chinatown. Among them, education (β = 0.072, p < .001) played a salient role in explaining the cognitive disadvantage of Chinatown residents. Education also moderated the influence of Chinatown residence on cognition, but only among Mandarin speakers (β = −0.027, p = .04).

Discussion and Implications

Living in an ethnic enclave may be a risk factor for poor cognition for Chinese immigrants. Neighborhood-specific health assessment may facilitate early identification and prevention of cognitive impairment in this population. Studies need to examine divergent aging experiences of immigrants within single ethnic groups.
Links between foreland rheology and the growth and evolution of a young mountain belt in New Guinea
Authors: Knight Lizzie , Copley Alex , Bertoni Claudia , Sloan R Alastair , Walker Richard
Published: October 2021

We have studied the active and recent tectonics of New Guinea, using earthquake source modelling, analysis of gravity anomalies, seismic reflection profiles, and thermal and mechanical models. Our aim is to investigate the behaviour and evolution of a young continental deformation belt, and to explore the effects of lateral variations in foreland rheology on the deformation. We find that along-strike gradients in the lithosphere thickness of the southern foreland have resulted in correlated changes in seismogenic thickness, likely due to the effects on the temperature structure of the crust. The resulting variation in the strength of the foreland means that in the east, the foreland is broken through on thrust faults, whereas in the west it is relatively intact. The lack of correlation between the elevation of the mountain belt and the seismogenic thickness of the foreland is likely to be due to the time taken to thicken the crust in the mountains following changes in the rheology of the underthrusting foreland, as the thinned passive margin of northern Australia is consumed. The along-strike variation in whether the force exerted between the mountains and the lowlands is able to break the foreland crust enables us to estimate the effective coefficient of friction on foreland faults to be in the range of 0.01–0.28. We use force-balance calculations to show that the recent tectonic re-organization in western New Guinea is likely to be due to the development of increasing curvature in the Banda Arc, and that the impingement of continental material on the subduction zone may explain the unusually low force it exerts on western New Guinea.
Corrigendum to Proper Isometric Actions of Thompson’s Groups on Hilbert Space
Authors: Farley Daniel S
Published: October 2021

We correct the statement and proof of Theorem 2.4 from Proper isometric actions of Thompson’s groups on Hilbert space.
Development of Inapparent Dengue Associated With Increased Antibody Levels to Aedes aegypti Salivary Proteins: A Longitudinal Dengue Cohort in Cambodia
Authors: Manning Jessica E , Chea Sophana , Parker Daniel M , Bohl Jennifer A , Lay Sreyngim , Mateja Allyson , Man Somnang , Nhek Sreynik , Ponce Aiyana , Sreng Sokunthea , Kong Dara , Kimsan Soun , Meneses Claudio , Fay Michael P , Suon Seila , Huy Rekol , Lon Chanthap , Leang Rithea , Oliveira Fabiano
Published: October 2021

Background

We established the first prospective cohort to understand how infection with dengue virus is influenced by vector-specific determinants such as humoral immunity to Aedes aegypti salivary proteins.

Methods

Children aged 2–9 years were enrolled in the PAGODAS (Pediatric Assessment Group of Dengue and Aedes Saliva) cohort with informed consent by their guardians. Children were followed semi-annually for antibodies to dengue and to proteins in Ae. aegypti salivary gland homogenate using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays and dengue-specific neutralization titers. Children presented with fever at any time for dengue testing.

Results

From 13 July to 30 August 2018, we enrolled 771 children. At baseline, 22% (173/770) had evidence of neutralizing antibodies to 1 or more dengue serotypes. By April 2020, 51 children had symptomatic dengue while 148 dengue-naive children had inapparent dengue defined by neutralization assays. In a multivariate model, individuals with higher antibodies to Ae. aegypti salivary proteins were 1.5 times more likely to have dengue infection (hazard ratio [HR], 1.47 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 1.05–2.06]; P = .02), particularly individuals with inapparent dengue (HR, 1.64 [95% CI, 1.12–2.41]; P = .01).

Conclusions

High levels of seropositivity to Ae. aegypti salivary proteins are associated with future development of dengue infection, primarily inapparent, in dengue-naive Cambodian children.

Clinical Trials Registration

NCT03534245
On the development of (not so) new competition systems—findings from an empirical study on Croatia
Authors: Pecotić Kaufman Jasminka
Published: October 2021

This article traces and examines the lifecycle of Croatia’s competition system in the 1995–2018 period: from its inception until after the country acceded to the EU. It aims to identify the main challenges to achieving a higher level of competition system maturity in the context of a post-socialist economy. The article uses an extensive dataset using primary and secondary sources: original, in-depth interviews with key stakeholders (competition authority officials, judges, attorneys-at-law, in-house lawyers, journalists, and academics); quantitative data related to enforcement, budget, and human resources; and relevant media reports. Its unique findings include a specific evolutionary path with four distinct phases of development identified: Inception; Withdrawal; Pre-accession; and Post-accession, as well as two key challenges: institutional and competition culture embeddedness, and functional self-restraint of the competition authority. We argue that the challenges mentioned above, in the context of the competition system trajectory as portrayed in this article, prevent the system from evolving to a more mature stage. This country-specific study aims to contribute to the broader literature on the development of competition systems by examining the relevance of specific factors that influence their evolution.
Quantification of the pluriannual dynamics of grapevine growth responses to nitrogen supply using a Bayesian approach
Authors: Vrignon-Brenas Sylvain , Fontez Bénédicte , Bisson Anne , Rolland Gaelle , Chopard Jérôme , Fumey Damien , Metay Aurélie , Pellegrino Anne
Published: October 2021

The effect of nitrogen (N) nutrition on grapevine carbon (C) dynamics has been well studied at the annual scale, but poorly addressed at a pluriannual timescale. The aim of this study was to quantify, in an integrated conceptual framework, the effect of N nutrition on potted grapevine growth and storage over 2 consecutive years. The consequences of using destructive measurements were investigated using a hierarchical Bayesian model. The rate and duration of leaf growth were both positively impacted by the chlorophyll content of the leaves, but they were negatively impacted by the initial carbohydrate measurements, raising a distortion in the estimation of initial reserves. The C production per unit of global radiation depended on the leaf area dynamics. The allocation of dry matter mainly relied on the phenological stage. The present study highlights the importance of using appropriate statistical methods to overcome uncertainties due to destructive measurements. The genericity of the statistical approach presented may encourage its implementation in other agronomy studies. Based on our results, a simple conceptual framework of grapevine pluriannual growth under various N supplies was built. This provides a relevant basis for a future model of C and N balance and responses to N fertilization in grapevine.
Cinnamoyl coA: NADP oxidoreductase-like 1 regulates abscisic acid response by modulating phaseic acid homeostasis in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Yin Xiaoming , Bai Ya-Li , Ye Tiantian , Yu Min , Wu Yan , Feng Yu-Qi
Published: October 2021

Phaseic acid (PA), a main catabolite of abscisic acid (ABA), is structurally related to ABA and possesses ABA-like hormonal activity. However, the comprehensive metabolism pathway and roles of PA are not well understood. Here, using homologous alignment and expression pattern analysis, we identified in Arabidopsis the previously named CRL1 (Cinnamoyl coA: NADP oxidoreductase-like 1) as a PA reductase that catalyses PA to dihydrophaseic acid. The function of CRL1 and the potential role of PA were studied in transgenic CRL1 plants. Overexpression of CRL1 resulted in decreased ABA sensitivity in seed germination and attenuated drought tolerance. In contrast, increased ABA sensitivity and elevated drought tolerance was observed in down-regulated and loss-of-function crl1 mutants. Tyr162 in the conserved motif is the key residue in CRL1 to catalyse PA. Accelerated seed germination and earlier flowering phenotype were also observed in overexpressing lines, while retarded seed germination and delayed flowering occurred in crl1 mutants which accumulated more PA, but less dihydrophaseic acid than the wild type. This study demonstrates that PA plays diverse functions in drought tolerance, seed germination and flowering in an ABA-like manner, which may increase the adaptive plasticity of plants.
Structural basis of cyclic oligoadenylate degradation by ancillary Type III CRISPR-Cas ring nucleases
Authors: Molina Rafael , Jensen Anne Louise Grøn , Marchena-Hurtado Javier , López-Méndez Blanca , Stella Stefano , Montoya Guillermo
Published: October 2021

Type III CRISPR-Cas effector systems detect foreign RNA triggering DNA and RNA cleavage and synthesizing cyclic oligoadenylate molecules (cA) in their Cas10 subunit. cAs act as a second messenger activating auxiliary nucleases, leading to an indiscriminate RNA degradation that can end in cell dormancy or death. Standalone ring nucleases are CRISPR ancillary proteins which downregulate the strong immune response of Type III systems by degrading cA. These enzymes contain a CRISPR-associated Rossman-fold (CARF) domain, which binds and cleaves the cA molecule. Here, we present the structures of the standalone ring nuclease from Sulfolobus islandicus (Sis) 0811 in its apo and post-catalytic states. This enzyme is composed by a N-terminal CARF and a C-terminal wHTH domain. Sis0811 presents a phosphodiester hydrolysis metal-independent mechanism, which cleaves cA4 rings to generate linear adenylate species, thus reducing the levels of the second messenger and switching off the cell antiviral state. The structural and biochemical analysis revealed the coupling of a cork-screw conformational change with the positioning of key catalytic residues to proceed with cA4 phosphodiester hydrolysis in a non-concerted manner.
Transnational Networks of ʿUlama: Haraki/Quietist Unity in the Face of Jihadi
Authors: Ismail Raihan
Published: October 2021

This chapter deals with the construction of Salafi theological and jurisprudential identities in relation to social issues. It examines how social issues are debated and negotiated within Salafi circles. The ʿulama may be politically united (along haraki/quietist lines), but they have different interpretations of Salafi theology and jurisprudence. The chapter examines how modernization has influenced and transformed Salafi tradition. It analyzes how Salafi ʿulama have responded to social changes taking place domestically, regionally, and globally. It also looks at whether the transnational networks of ʿulama are affected by the contestation and negotiation of aqidah and fiqh in relation to social matters in Muslim societies. It questions whether the haraki/quietist dichotomy is relevant to understanding the theological/jurisprudential positions of the Salafi ʿulama.
Introduction
Authors: Greble Emily
Published: October 2021

The introduction establishes key arguments and questions at the heart of Muslims in Modern Europe. Being Muslim in Europe, it shows, was not simply a confessional identity or a matter of belief, but a legal category enshrined in decades of legal codes, institutionalized in the structures of state institutions, and embedded in European frameworks for political and cultural belonging. It demonstrates that Muslims in southeastern Europe were Europeans, and their histories need to be included as part of core European histories. Muslims in Europe were certainly victims of oppressive power structures, disingenuous negotiations, and discrimination. But they fought for the right to define the place of Islam in their states and societies, shaping the European project itself.
Scholastic and Cosmic Philosophy
Authors: Ypi Lea
Published: October 2021

This chapter places Kant’s remarks on the architectonic in historical context, and shows how Kant appropriates existing historical sources to advance his own project of the foundation of metaphysics as a science. His vision of philosophy as a unified discipline includes a scholastic and cosmic/cosmopolitan perspective. Kant endorses this distinction to emphasize the importance of systematicity and purposiveness as features of human reason, and appeals to the need for a purposive architectonic principle to integrate reason’s theoretical cognitions with its practical interest. This concept of purposiveness which orients the Doctrine of Method, the chapter argues, has been overlooked in many interpretations, but is helpful to restore the centrality of the Architectonic of Pure Reason to Kant’s overall critical system.
Association between COVID-19 infection rates by region and implementation of non-pharmaceutical interventions: a cross-sectional study in Japan
Authors: Anan Tomomi , Ishimaru Tomohiro , Hino Ayako , Nagata Tomohisa , Tateishi Seiichiro , Tsuji Mayumi , Ogami Akira , Matsuda Shinya , Fujino Yoshihisa ,   for the CORoNaWork project
Published: October 2021

Background

During a pandemic, non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) play an important role in protecting oneself and others from infection. There are large regional differences in COVID-19 infection rates in Japan. We hypothesized that the local infection incidence may affect adherence to individual NPIs.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted online among full-time workers in Japan in December 2020. The questionnaire asked the respondents to identify their habits regarding seven common NPIs (wearing masks, washing hands after the bathroom, disinfecting hands when entering indoors, gargling when returning home, ventilating the room, disinfecting or washing hands after touching frequently touched surfaces, carrying alcohol sanitizers when outdoors).

Results

A total of 27 036 participants were analyzed. Compared with the region with the lowest infection rate, five of the seven NPIs showed statistically significant trends across regional infection levels, the two exceptions being wearing masks and washing hands after the bathroom. Multivariate adjustment did not change these trends.

Conclusions

This study found that NPIs were more prevalent in regions with higher incidence rates of COVID-19 in Japanese workers. The findings suggest that the implementation of NPIs was influenced not only by personal attributes but also by contextual effects of the local infection level.
Yield, nutrient composition, and horse condition in integrated crabgrass and cool-season grass rotational grazing pasture systems
Authors: Weinert-Nelson Jennifer R , Meyer William A , Williams Carey A
Published: October 2021

Integration of warm-season grasses into traditional cool-season pastures can increase summer forage for grazing cattle. The aim of this study was to determine impacts of this practice on yield and nutrient composition of equine rotational pasture systems as well as horse body condition. Two 1.5 ha rotational systems (6 to 0.25 ha sections/system) were evaluated: a control system (CON) (all sections mixed cool-season grass [CSG-CON]) and an integrated rotational grazing system (IRS) (three CSG sections [CSG-IRS] and three Quick-N-Big crabgrass [Digitaria sanguinalis (L.) Scop.; CRB-IRS]). Three horses per system grazed in three periods: EARLY (mid-May to mid-July), SLUMP (mid-July to mid-September), and LATE (mid-September to mid-November). Herbage mass (HM) was measured prior to each rotation and samples were collected (0800 to 1000 h) for nutrient analysis. Grazing days were tracked to calculate carrying capacity (CC). Horse condition measures were assessed monthly. Over the full grazing season, 9,125 kg of forage was available for grazing in IRS versus 6,335 kg in CON. The CC was 390 horse d for IRS, while only 276 horse d for CON. Total HM/section did not differ during EARLY when CRB was not available (CSG-IRS: 2,537 ± 605; CSG-CON: 3,783 ± 856 kg/ha), but CC was greater in CSG-IRS (220 ± 37 horse d/ha) than CSG-CON (92 ± 26 horse d/ha; P = 0.03). In SLUMP, both HM and CC were greater in CRB-IRS (HM: 4,758 ± 698 kg/ha; CC: 196 ± 31 horse d/ha) than CSG-IRS (HM: 1,086 ± 698 kg/ha; CC: 32 ± 31 horse d/ha) or CON (HM: 970 ± 493 kg/ha; CC: 46 ± 22 horse d/ha; P < 0.02). While HM did not differ by section type in LATE (1,284 ± 158 kg/ha), CC was greater in CSG-CON (84 ± 9 horse d/ha) versus CRB-IRS (32 ± 13 horse d/ha; P = 0.03) and CSG-IRS (40 ± 13 horse d/ha; P = 0.06). During SLUMP, water-soluble carbohydrates (WSC) were lower in CRB-IRS (4.46% ± 0.80%) than CSG-CON (7.92% ± 0.90%; P < 0.04), but not CSG-IRS (5.93% ± 1.04%); however, non-structural carbohydrates (NSC) did not differ (7.05% ± 0.62%). There were no differences in WSC (6.46% ± 0.54%) or NSC (7.65% ± 0.54%) by section type in LATE. Horses in IRS maintained a body condition score (BCS) of 5.78 ± 0.48, but BCS did not differ by system (CON: 6.11 ± 0.48). Thus, integrated grazing increased summer pasture yield and provided adequate nutrition to maintain horse condition, but further research is needed to improve late-season production. Integrated grazing may not, however, provide an advantage in limiting dietary NSC, as NSC remained low for all pasture sections.
What primary care clinicians need to know about pilonidal disease
Authors: Wood Jaimie
Published: October 2021

Pilonidal disease, although relatively common, often is not appropriately recognized and treated. This inflammatory condition may be found in several areas on the body; this article reviews disease affecting the gluteal cleft, how to identify the condition, initial treatment, and when to consider surgical intervention for definitive care.
Social Perception of Reconstruction following Orbital Exenteration
Authors: Cherubino Mario , Baroni Tommaso , Santoro Veronica , Garutti Leonardo , Battaglia Paolo , Turri-Zanoni Mario , Di Summa Pietro , Tamborini Federico , di Giovanna Danilo , Valdatta Luigi
Published: October 2021

Background:

Orbital exenteration, the removal of the entire globe, eyelids, and orbital content, is indicated in extensive neoplastic disease involving the orbital region. Although a functional reconstruction of orbital exenteration defects is mandatory, aesthetic concerns need to be considered. Facial disfigurement following reconstructive surgery often leads to great discomfort and social retirement, which can limit social interaction. The aim of this study was to explore how the society perceives the aspect of patients who underwent orbital exenteration and subsequent reconstruction, comparing two different types of reconstruction: standard anterolateral thigh (ALT) or “sandwich” fascial ALT (SALT) free flap.

Methods:

An online survey was created based on four questions regarding the perception of reconstruction (discomfort at looking at that patient, perception of unhealthiness, hypothesis of social life impairment, etc); five possible answers were provided, ranging from “completely” to “not at all.” The survey was administered to the general population and to medical students.

Results:

In total, 255 people participated to the survey (130 medical students and 125 people of the general population); a total of 245 surveys were considered eligible (10 were incomplete and then discharged). Statistical significance was found (P < 0.001) regarding the better overall appearance of the SALT group over the ALT one.

Conclusions:

After analysis, the surgical outcome after SALT reconstruction has been found to be less disruptive in both groups, due to a reduced scar burden and a more pleasant orbital pocket. Our results encourage more research in the field of postexenteration reconstruction to achieve more aesthetic and social acceptability.
Intramedullary Screw Fixation Comprehensive Technique Guide for Metacarpal and Phalanx Fractures: Pearls and Pitfalls
Authors: Chao John , Patel Anup , Shah Ajul
Published: October 2021

Background:

Phalangeal and metacarpal fractures are the second and third most common upper extremity fractures after distal radius fractures with varying methods of fixation techniques. Intramedullary screw fixation is an increasingly preferred method of fixation. Benefits include early range of motion, faster recovery, limited dissection, and reduced complications. Improper technique, which is readily avoidable, can lead to suboptimal results.

Methods:

A review of recent literature on current techniques aims to summarize the biomechanics of intramedullary screw fixation and outline appropriate technique of placing headless compression screws for metacarpal and phalangeal fractures.

Results:

We discuss through images and videos the indications, preoperative workup, and technical pearls and pitfalls to encourage surgeons to add this technique to their armamentarium and improve outcomes.

Conclusions:

intrameduallry screw fixation is a powerful option for metacarpal and phalanx fixation that allows rigid stability, enabling early return of function with excellent rates of union and total active motion. With knowledge of technical pearls presented in this article, common mistakes can be avoided to improve efficiency of screw placement and optimize patient outcomes.
Immediate Post-Concussion and Cognitive Testing (ImPACT): Effects of Data Integration Strategies on Classification Accuracy
Authors: Gaudet Charles E.
Published: October 2021

Objective:

The current study aimed to evaluate varying data integration procedures and their effects on the classification accuracy of Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing (ImPACT).

Setting:

Data were collected from an independent secondary school that included students in grades 9 to 12.

Participants:

The study examined 300 consecutive ImPACT score reports generated by secondary school students between 2010 and 2015.

Design:

To appraise ImPACT's utility as a serialized measure, standardized regression-based equations were formulated to compute reliable change index scores. Discriminant function analyses (DFAs) consisting of varying combinations of ImPACT composite scores were conducted and their accuracy was compared to that produced by the standard interpretive procedure.

Main Measures:

Varying combinations of scores produced on Verbal Memory, Visual Memory, Visual Motor Speed, Reaction Speed, and the Postconcussion Symptom Scale were included in analyses.

Results:

DFAs yielded sensitivities ranging from 31% to 49%, specificities from 88% to 95%, positive predictive values (PPVs) from 61% to 83%, and negative predictive values (NPVs) from 67% to 75%. Conversely, the standard interpretive procedure yielded a sensitivity of 73%, specificity of 43%, PPV of 45%, and NPV of 72%.

Conclusion:

The standard interpretive procedure produced a higher sensitivity than the DFAs; however, its PPV did not exceed chance levels. Conversely, DFA equations produced superior PPVs; however, their sensitivity hovered around 50%, leaving a substantial proportion of individuals with concussion undetected. Cognitive composite scores did not appear to offer significant incremental utility in relation to symptom self-report. Base rate conditions and psychometric factors appeared to contribute to ImPACT's limited classification accuracy.
How glaucoma care changed for the better after the pandemic
Authors: Vinod Kateki , Sidoti Paul A.
Published: October 2021

Purpose of review

The current article reviews enhancements to the delivery of glaucoma care that developed in response to the coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic and are likely to persist beyond its resolution.

Recent findings

Literature from the review period (2020–2021) includes reports highlighting contributions of the ophthalmology community to global health during the pandemic. Glaucoma practices worldwide have instituted more robust infection control measures to mitigate severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 transmission in the outpatient setting, and many of these modifications will endure in the post-COVID era. Operational adjustments have led to the provision of more efficient glaucoma care. A hybrid care model involving technician-based diagnostic testing and subsequent virtual consultation with a glaucoma specialist has evolved as a useful adjunct to traditional face-to-face encounters with patients.

Glaucoma specialists, patients, and staff have adapted to a ‘new normal’ of glaucoma care delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although innovation has propelled several improvements to glaucoma care during this global health crisis, significant barriers to more widespread implementation of teleglaucoma still exist. Whether, and in what capacity, the pandemic has permanently altered glaucoma practice patterns remains to be seen.
The role of interventional pulmonology in pleural disease diagnosis and management
Authors: Flora Arjan S.
Published: October 2021

Purpose of review

Pleural disease guidelines have not been updated in a decade. Advances have been made in the diagnosis and management of pleural diseases since, with expanding evidence of the utility of medical thoracoscopy (MT) as a safe and effective tool.

Recent findings

Although thoracic ultrasound has improved early determination of pleural disease etiology, thoracentesis remains limited, and pleural tissue is necessary for the diagnosis of undifferentiated exudative pleural effusions. Medical thoracoscopy has been shown to be superior to traditional closed pleural biopsy, and recent literature is focused on which technique is best. A recent randomized controlled trial (RCT) found rigid mini-thoracoscopy was not superior to semirigid thoracoscopy. Meta-analyses have not found pleural cyrobiopsy to be superior to forceps biopsies. As a therapeutic tool, meta-analysis suggests MT as a possible first-line tool for the treatment of complicated parapneumonic effusions (CPE) and early empyema. A RCT comparing MT to intrapleural fibrinolytic therapy demonstrated that the former technique is safe, effective, and may shorten hospital length of stay in patients with CPE/empyema.

The implications of the recent findings in the medical literature are that medical thoracoscopy, particularly by trained Interventional Pulmonologists, will find an expanded role in future iteration of pleural disease guidelines.
Apixaban: An Optimal Agent for the Treatment of Cancer-Associated Venous Thromboembolism?
Authors: Grilusová Kristína , Bolek Tomáš , Škorňová Ingrid , Stančiaková Lucia , Mikušová Veronika , Kubisz Peter , Galajda Peter , Staško Ján , Samoš Matej , Mokáň Marián
Published: October 2021

Background:

Apixaban, a direct inhibitor of activated coagulation factor X (FXaI), is being frequently selected for treatment and prevention of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Several reports about possible use of oral FXaI in patients with cancer-associated VTE (CA-VTE) have been published recently.

Areas of Uncertainty:

The efficacy/safety profile of oral FXaI anticoagulation in patients with CA-VTE seems promising; however, several problems remain unanswered. The pharmacologic profile of apixaban could prefer this agent for the treatment of CA-VTE.

Data Sources:

Currently available medical literature was searched and reviewed to summarize data regarding the use of apixaban for the prevention and treatment of cancer-associated VTE.

Results:

Apixaban therapy in patients with cancer and VTE is expected to increase as clinicians gain more experience and reassurance with data from real-world studies that are generally promising. Several studies demonstrated that apixaban exhibits noninferiority to warfarin and low molecular weight heparin in preventing recurrent thrombosis in cancer-associated VTE. Nevertheless, there are still concerns regarding the bleeding associated with apixaban therapy, and regarding the optimal management of these bleeding emergencies.

Therapeutic Opinion:

Although currently available evidence confirms the noninferiority of apixaban for reduction of the risk of recurrent VTE in patients with cancer; there are still concerns regarding the safety, especially in selected subpopulations of these patients.
Intricacies of retroperitoneal lymph node dissection for testis cancer
Authors: Alsyouf Muhannad , Daneshmand Siamak
Published: October 2021

Purpose of review

Retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) and retroperitoneal tumor resection for germ cell cancer are complex operations requiring experience and expertise in surgical techniques necessary to achieve complete resection while minimizing morbidity. This article reviews the intricacies of RPLND for testis cancer.

Recent findings

Surgical management of advanced testis cancer begins with an intimate understanding of retroperitoneal anatomy and the various techniques necessary to safely extirpate tumors. Preoperatively patients should undergo comprehensive counseling and obtain up-to-date imaging along with tumor markers to assist in surgical planning and evaluation of extraretroperitoneal (ERP) disease. Surgeons must be well versed in nerve-sparing techniques to maintain ejaculatory function. Newer techniques using a midline extraperitoneal technique minimizes morbidity and length of hospital stay. Special consideration should be given to the possibility of encountering ERP disease in advanced germ cell tumors, with management of these cases in tertiary care centers with multidisciplinary teams.

The perioperative care of the testis cancer patient undergoing RPLND is complex. The goal is to achieve complete resection to render patients disease free while minimizing surgical and long-term morbidity. Advanced testis cancer patients should be managed at tertiary care facilities with surgical expertise and access to multidisciplinary care.