bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Piezo1-expressing vocal fold epithelia modulate remodeling via effects on self-renewal and cytokeratin differentiation
Authors: Foote Alexander G. , Lungova Vlasta , Thibeault Susan L.
Published: November 2022

Mechanoreceptors are implicated as functional afferents within mucosa of the airways and the recent discovery of mechanosensitive channels Piezo1 and Piezo2 has proved essential for cells of various mechanically sensitive tissues. However, the role for Piezo1/2 in vocal fold (VF) mucosal epithelia, a cell that withstands excessive biomechanical insult, remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that Piezo1 is required for VF mucosal repair pathways of epithelial cell injury. Utilizing a sonic hedgehog (shh) Cre line for epithelial-specific ablation of Piezo1/2 mechanoreceptors, we investigated 6wk adult VF mucosa following naphthalene exposure for repair strategies at 1, 3, 7 and 14 days post-injury (dpi). PIEZO1 localized to differentiated apical epithelia and was paramount for epithelial remodeling events. Injury to wildtype epithelium was most appreciated at 3 dpi. Shhcre/+; Piezo1loxP/loxP, Piezo2 loxP/+ mutant epithelium exhibited severe cell/nuclear defects compared to injured controls. Conditional ablation of Piezo1 and/or Piezo2 to uninjured VF epithelium did not result in abnormal phenotypes across P0, P15 and 6wk postnatal stages compared to heterozygote and control tissue. Results demonstrate a role for Piezo1-expressing VF epithelia in regulating self-renewal via effects on p63 transcription and YAP subcellular translocation—altering cytokeratin differentiation.
Cost-effectiveness of on-demand removal of syndesmotic screws
Authors: Penning D. , Sanders F. R. K. , van Dieren S. , Roukema G. R. , Vermeulen J. , Winkelhagen J. , Goslings J. C. , Schepers T. ,   RODEO collaborator group, van den Bekerom M. P. , van Dijkman B. , Halm J. A. , Hoogendoorn J. M. , Parkkinen M. , van Veen R. N.
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Syndesmotic screw removal following acute syndesmotic injury is a commonly performed procedure. However, recent studies suggest that the removal does not result in improved patient reported outcome, while the procedure has proved not to be without complications. The aim of this study was to present a health-economic evaluation of on-demand removal (ODR) compared to routine removal (RR) of the syndesmotic screw.

Methods

Data were collected from the RODEO trial, a randomized controlled non-inferiority trial comparing functional outcome of ODR with RR. Economic evaluation resulted in total costs, costs (in Euro) per quality adjusted life year (QALY) and costs per point improvement on the Olerud Molander Ankle Score (OMAS). This included both direct and indirect costs.

Results

Total costs for ODR were significantly lower with a mean difference of 3160 euro compared to RR (p < 0.001). The difference in QALY was not significant. The difference in OMAS at 12 months was 1.79 with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of €-1763 (p = 0.512). The ICER was well below the willingness to pay. Although unit costs might vary between hospitals and countries, these results provide relevant data of cost-effectiveness.

Conclusion

The clinical effectiveness of both ODR and RR can be considered equal. The costs are lower for patients treated with ODR, which leads to the conclusion that ODR is cost-effective.
A systematic approach for product modelling and function integration to support adaptive redesign of product variants
Authors: Wong Foo Shing , Wynn David C.
Published: November 2022

When a product variant offers functionality that is high in demand, firms may decide to leverage that design to enhance other variants in their product line. This can be achieved by extracting functions and their realisations from one product variant and integrating them into another variant, resulting in a third product variant that has a new combination of functions and physical features. This article introduces a systematic approach called the ﻿Adaptive Redesign Method (ARM) to support this function integration process. The ARM is based on a new product model called the Detailed Design Model (DDM). In comparison to existing approaches, the DDM allows the architecture of an existing product to be modelled on a sufficiently detailed level to identify geometric features and parts that realise particular operating functions of a product. This detailed information provides a basis for systematic determination of the redesign activities needed to derive a new variant design, down to the detailed level of adding, removing and integrating specific parts and features. The main benefit is to assist with planning the redesign process while ensuring nothing is overlooked, which might be especially useful if the task is to be divided among several designers or if designers are not fully familiar with the designs at hand. A secondary benefit is to show how this type of redesign process can be decomposed into systematic steps, which could potentially reveal opportunities for computer support. The new approach has been developed and tested through reverse engineering studies of consumer products, confirming its applicability.
Hemi-hamate donor site morbidity and complications: a systematic review
Authors: Hamilton Sam J. , Tang Nicholas S. J. , Zhou Jieyun , Davis Katherine A. , Leong James C.
Published: November 2022

Background

The hemi-hamate arthroplasty is utilised for the management of complex fracture-dislocations for injuries of the proximal interphalangeal joints (PIPJ) of the fingers. PIPJ outcomes are well described, including the post-operative range of motion, grip strength and osteochondral graft union. However, there is a paucity of evidence analysing the rate of donor site morbidity and complications. This systematic review aims to present the published morbidity of the donor site for the hemi-hamate arthroplasty.

Methods

A search was conducted in MEDLINE, Embase, Emcare, CINAHL and ProQuest Nursing and Allied Health databases from their inception which yielded 384 articles to be screened. Pertinent anatomy, harvesting techniques and post-operative donor site care of the hemi-hamate arthroplasty is reviewed.

Results

One hundred three cases of hemi-hamate arthroplasty were included in this review with seven (6.8%) complications presented, one of which required operative intervention.

Conclusion

Donor site morbidity resulting from harvesting an osteochondral graft for a hemi-hamate arthroplasty is low. The overall quality of evidence from the studies in this review is low, highlighting the need for further robust prospective trials.

Level of evidence

Not gradable.
Congenital syphilis in the twenty-first century: an area-based study
Authors: Salomè Serena , Cambriglia Maria Donata , Scarano Sara Maria , Capone Eleonora , Betts Ivy , Pacella Daniela , Sansone Matilde , Mazzarelli Laura Letizia , Lo Vecchio Andrea , Ranucci Giusy , Marinosci Geremia Zito , Capasso Letizia , Salvatore Paola , Raimondi Francesco
Published: November 2022

The resurgence of syphilis and subsequent risk for newborns has been described worldwide; however, European data on this congenital infection is lacking. We report the activity of a multidisciplinary specialized unit assisting a large area in the Southern Italy. A retrospective cohort study has been conducted at the Perinatal and Pediatric Infectious Diseases Units of the Federico II University of Naples, enrolling all newborns and children referred from January 2010 to June 2022 exposed to Treponema pallidum in utero and/or congenitally infected. A total of 323 patients were included in the analysis. Twenty (6.2%) received a diagnosis of confirmed congenital syphilis (CS) and one died. Fifteen CS cases had typical clinical features. Since 2017, the number of referred neonates tripled while the rate of late maternal diagnoses did not significantly differ. When compared with mothers of exposed infants, mothers of CS cases were younger (25 ± 7.2 vs 29.9 ± 6 years, p = 0.041), had less previous pregnancies (0.64 vs 1.11, p = 0.044), and received a diagnosis of syphilis at a later stage of pregnancy (86% vs 20%, from third trimester or later on; p < 0.001). Appropriate maternal therapy was protective against vertical transmission (− 1.2; − 1.4, − 1 95% CI; p < 0.001). Paternal syphilis status was known in 36% of cases.

Conclusion: CS has still a significant impact. Prevention should be implemented towards specific maternal risk profiles. A specialized unit is the preferable model to improve surveillance and healthcare for this neglected population.

What is Known:• The resurgence of syphilis and subsequent risk for newborns has been described worldwide.• European data on this congenital infection is lacking.

What is New:• Congenital syphilis has a significant impact still in Europe and prevention should be implemented towards specific maternal risk profiles. • A specialized unit is the preferable model to improve surveillance and healthcare for this neglected population.
Parenting boys with conduct problems and callous-unemotional traits: parent and child perspectives
Authors: Roberts Ruth , McCrory Eamon , Joffe Helene , Phillips Harriet , Gaule Anne , Viding Essi
Published: November 2022

Parenting children with conduct problems (CP) is challenging, yet very little research has examined parenting using both quantitative and qualitative methods, from the perspective of the child and their parent/caregiver, and separately for those with high vs. low levels of callous-unemotional traits (HCU vs. LCU). One hundred and forty-six boys aged 11–16 [Typically developing (TD) n = 31; CP/HCU n = 35; CP/LCU n = 35] and their parents/caregivers completed the Alabama Parenting Questionnaire and provided a written qualitative statement describing their respective experiences of parenting/being parented. Parents/caregivers of CP/HCU boys reported more difficulty with child monitoring and supervision than parents of TD boys. This was echoed in qualitative reports of parents of CP/HCU boys reporting concerns regarding their child’s safety. Parents/caregivers of both groups of CP boys reported more inconsistent discipline than parents of TD boys. Parental qualitative descriptions of challenging behavior in CP/HCU boys, and difficulties with setting boundaries and motivating CP/LCU boys, provided further insight to the potential triggers for inconsistent discipline. Qualitative reports from boys with CP indicated that they understood the parenting challenges their parents/caregivers faced. These findings replicate and extend previous work on the associations between parenting and CP. Children with CP/HCU and CP/LCU show some commonalities and differences in their parenting experiences and CP children and their parents/caregivers do not necessarily share all the same perceptions or concerns. CP interventions often involve parent/family engagement and this research highlights the continued importance of examining both parent and child perspectives.
Prognostic impact of tumor microenvironment-related markers in patients with adenocarcinoma of the lung
Authors: Sugai Mayu , Yanagawa Naoki , Shikanai Shunsuke , Osakabe Mitsumasa , Maemondo Makoto , Saito Hajime , Sugai Tamotsu
Published: November 2022

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a prominent component in the tumor microenvironment (TME), which plays an important role in lung carcinogenesis. Here, we investigated microenvironmental markers expressed by CAFs, including α-smooth muscle actin, CD10, podoplanin, fibroblast-specific protein 1, platelet-derived growth factor α and β, fibroblast-associated protein, tenascin-C, zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1), and twist-related protein 1 expression levels. We evaluated samples from 257 patients with lung adenocarcinoma (LAD) to assess the associations of CAF-related protein expression patterns with prognosis. LAD cases were stratified using cluster analysis. To determine the utility of prognostic markers in LAD, univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. LAD cases were classified into subgroups 1 and 2. Subgroup 2 was shown to be significantly correlated with disease-free and overall survival using univariate and multivariate analyses in this group. Upregulation of podoplanin was identified as a single prognostic marker in this study by univariate and multivariate analyses. In addition, ZEB1 overexpression was correlated with disease-free survival. Our current results suggested that the specific CAF phenotype (e.g., the expression pattern of CAF-related proteins) could predict outcomes in patients with LAD. In addition, podoplanin upregulation may predict outcomes in these patients.
Exploring pattern recognition: what is the relationship between the recognition of words, faces and other objects?
Authors: Maratos F. A. , Chu K. , Lipka S. , Stupple E. J. N. , Parente F.
Published: November 2022

Debate surrounds processes of visual recognition, with no consensus as to whether recognition of distinct object categories (faces, bodies, cars, and words) is domain specific or subserved by domain-general visual recognition mechanisms. Here, we investigated correlations between the performance of 74 participants on recognition tasks for words, faces and other object categories. Participants completed a counter-balanced test battery of the Cambridge Face, Car and Body Parts Memory tests, as well as a standard four category lexical decision task, with response time and recognition accuracy as dependent variables. Results revealed significant correlations across domains for both recognition accuracy and response time, providing some support for domain-general pattern recognition. Further exploration of the data using principal component analysis (PCA) revealed a two-component model for both the response time and accuracy data. However, how the various word and object recognition tasks fitted these components varied considerably but did hint at familiarity/expertise as a common factor. In sum, we argue a complex relationship exists between domain-specific processing and domain-general processing, but that this is shaped by expertise. To further our understanding of pattern recognition, research investigating the recognition of words, faces and other objects in dyslexic individuals is recommended, as is research exploiting neuroimaging methodologies, with excellent temporal resolution, to chart the temporal specifics of different forms of visual pattern recognition.
First detection of resistance to deltamethrin in Spanish populations of the Mediterranean fruit fly, Ceratitis capitata
Authors: Castells-Sierra Javier , Guillem-Amat Ana , López-Errasquín Elena , Sánchez Lucas , Ortego Félix
Published: November 2022

The control of the Mediterranean fruit fly (Medfly), Ceratitis capitata, in citrus orchards in Spain is mainly based in three insecticides (spinosad, lambda-cyhalothrin and deltamethrin) and the liberation of sterile males. However, Medfly control is compromised by the development of lambda-cyhalothrin resistance and the detection of spinosad-resistant alleles in field populations. We report here, for the first time, resistance to deltamethrin in populations collected in fields under different management strategies, including MagnetMed™ traps coated with this insecticide and/or spinosad and lambda-cyhalothrin used as bait sprays, and even in populations obtained from non-treated fields. Two deltamethrin-resistant strains (BP-delta and Rfg-delta) were generated from the descendants of some of the field populations that showed lower susceptibility to deltamethrin. Both strains showed low susceptibility to MagnetMed™ traps, moderate susceptibility to Ceratipack traps, and lacked cross-resistance to spinosad and lambda cyhalothrin. Our data suggest that deltamethrin resistance was mediated by P450 enzymes, since bioassays with synergists showed that PBO reverted resistance in a field population and the laboratory strains, whereas the effect of DEF and DEM was minor and no mutations were found in the VGSC gene. The inheritance of resistance for both strains was completely recessive, autosomic and did not fit the mortality expected for a recessive character under a monogenic or digenic model. We also found that deltamethrin resistance presented a fitness cost in terms of males’ weight, males’ and females’ longevity and lifetime fecundity, with a more pronounced effect in the BP-strain than in the Rfg-delta strain. Our results highlight the need to implement insecticide resistance management strategies to prevent control failures.
Monitoring the role of soil hydrologic conditions and rainfall for the triggering of torrential flows in the Rebaixader catchment (Central Pyrenees, Spain)
Authors: Oorthuis Raül , Hürlimann Marcel , Vaunat Jean , Moya José , Lloret Antonio
Published: November 2022

Torrential flows (debris flows and debris floods) are mainly triggered by precipitation and soil hydrological processes. Most early warning systems in torrential catchments are rainfall-based. However, this approach can result in frequent false positives, due to its pure black-box nature, in which soil water conditions are neglected. We aim to contribute to the understanding of the conditions required for triggering torrential flows by considering also in situ measurements of soil water content. Herein, monitoring data of 12 years of rainfall and torrential flow occurrence (2009–2020) and 8 years of soil hydrologic conditions (2013–2020) in the Rebaixader catchment (Central Pyrenees, Spain) are analyzed. The dataset includes more than 1000 rainfall events and 37 torrential flows. First, rainfall thresholds using maximum rainfall intensity (Imax) and mean intensity (Imean) are defined. For the 2013–2020 dataset, which includes 15 torrential events, the Imean threshold predicted 2 false negatives and 73 false positives (positive predictive value, PPV, of 15.1%) and the best Imax threshold predicted also 2 false negatives but only 11 false positives (PPV of 54.2%). However, our observations confirmed quantitatively that the lower is the soil moisture the higher is the rainfall intensity to trigger torrential flows. Then, we combined Imax and volumetric water content at 15 and 30 cm depth to define a hydro-meteorological threshold. This latter threshold reduced false negatives to 1 and false positives to 8 and increased the PPV to 63.6%. These results confirm that soil hydrological conditions are key factors for torrential flow triggering and may improve early-warning predictions.
Geotechnical reconnaissance findings of the October 30 2020, Mw7.0 Samos Island (Aegean Sea) earthquake
Authors: Ziotopoulou Katerina , Cetin Kemal Onder , Pelekis Panagiotis , Altun Selim , Klimis Nikolaos , Sezer Alper , Rovithis Emmanouil , Yılmaz Mustafa Tolga , Papadimitriou Achilleas G. , Gulerce Zeynep , Can Gizem , Ilgac Makbule , Cakır Elife , Soylemez Berkan , Al-Suhaily Ahmed , Elsaid Alaa , Zarzour Moutasem , Ecemis Nurhan , Unutmaz Berna , Kockar Mustafa Kerem , Akgun Mustafa , Kincal Cem , Bayat Ece Eseller , Ozener Pelin Tohumcu , Stewart Jonathan P. , Mylonakis George
Published: November 2022

On October 30, 2020 14:51 (UTC), a moment magnitude (Mw) of 7.0 (USGS, EMSC) earthquake occurred in the Aegean Sea north of the island of Samos, Greece. Turkish and Hellenic geotechnical reconnaissance teams were deployed immediately after the event and their findings are documented herein. The predominantly observed failure mechanism was that of earthquake-induced liquefaction and its associated impacts. Such failures are presented and discussed together with a preliminary assessment of the performance of building foundations, slopes and deep excavations, retaining structures and quay walls. On the Anatolian side (Turkey), and with the exception of the Izmir-Bayrakli region where significant site effects were observed, no major geotechnical effects were observed in the form of foundation failures, surface manifestation of liquefaction and lateral soil spreading, rock falls/landslides, failures of deep excavations, retaining structures, quay walls, and subway tunnels. In Samos (Greece), evidence of liquefaction, lateral spreading and damage to quay walls in ports were observed on the northern side of the island. Despite the proximity to the fault (about 10 km), the amplitude and the duration of shaking, the associated liquefaction phenomena were not pervasive. It is further unclear whether the damage to quay walls was due to liquefaction of the underlying soil, or merely due to the inertia of those structures, in conjunction with the presence of soft (yet not necessarily liquefied) foundation soil. A number of rockfalls/landslides were observed but the relevant phenomena were not particularly severe. Similar to the Anatolian side, no failures of engineered retaining structures and major infrastructure such as dams, bridges, viaducts, tunnels were observed in the island of Samos which can be mostly attributed to the lack of such infrastructure.
Innovative Ground Improvement with Chemical Grouts: Potential and Limits of Partial Saturation with Polymers
Authors: Pratter Paul , Boley Conrad , Forouzandeh Yashar
Published: November 2022

Nowadays, polymers are well-established in geotechnical applications, for example as grouting material for soil and rock stabilization, or as grouting material for anchorages. Concerning ground improvement, the polymers act as a binder that, if cured, holds the grains together by adhesive and cohesive forces. This special characteristic enables the use of less material and therefore saves costs but requires detailed knowledge of the material behavior to avoid application errors. The subject of this research work are two different polymers, which are used for partial saturation of the ground. For the investigation of the mechanical and hydraulic properties of the ground improvement, the geotechnical testing program on the composite material of polymers and gravel is extended by special tests, such as rheometer tests, for chemical grouts. If the polymers are used correctly, the composite material can achieve a load-bearing capacity comparable to that of concrete while the material remaining permeable. This is highlighted by strength tests on the composite material. Finally, the numerical calculation of a track ballast stabilization, using PFC-FLAC3D coupling, demonstrates the potential of the polymers for practical application and that even difficult ground conditions can be handled with it.
The Final Cut
Authors: Zardini Elia
Published: November 2022

In a series of works, Pablo Cobreros, Paul Égré, David Ripley and Robert van Rooij have proposed a nontransitive system (call it ‘K3LP’) as a basis for a solution to the semantic paradoxes. I critically consider that proposal at three levels. At the level of the background logic, I present a conception of classical logic on which K3LP fails to vindicate classical logic not only in terms of structural principles, but also in terms of operational ones. At the level of the theory of truth, I raise a cluster of philosophical difficulties for a K3LP-based system of naive truth, all variously related to the fact that such a system proves things that would seem already by themselves repugnant, even in the absence of transitivity. At the level of the theory of validity, I consider an extension of the K3LP-based system of naive validity that is supposed to certify that validity in that system does not fall short of naive validity, argue that such an extension is untenable in that its nontriviality depends on the inadmissibility of a certain irresistible instance of transitivity (whence the advertised “final cut”) and conclude on this basis that the K3LP-based system of naive validity cannot coherently be adopted either. At all these levels, a crucial role is played by certain metaentailments and by the extra strength they afford over the corresponding entailments: on the one hand, such strength derives from considerations that would seem just as compelling in a general nontransitive framework, but, on the other hand, such strength wreaks havoc in the particular setting of K3LP.
Real regular KP divisors on $${\texttt {M}}$$-curves and totally non-negative Grassmannians
Authors: Abenda Simonetta , Grinevich Petr G.
Published: November 2022

In this paper, we construct an explicit map from planar bicolored (plabic) trivalent graphs representing a given irreducible positroid cell $${{\mathcal {S}}}_{{\mathcal {M}}}^{\text{ TNN }}$$

S

M

TNN

in the totally non-negative Grassmannian $$Gr^{\text{ TNN }}(k,n)$$

G

r

TNN

(
k
,
n
)

to the spectral data for the relevant class of real regular Kadomtsev–Petviashvili II (KP-II) solutions, thus completing the search of real algebraic-geometric data for the KP-II equation started in Abenda and Grinevich (Commun Math Phys 361(3):1029–1081, 2018; Sel Math New Ser 25(3):43, 2019). The spectral curve is modeled on the Krichever construction for degenerate finite-gap solutions and is a rationally degenerate $${\texttt {M}}$$
M
-curve, $$\Gamma $$
Γ
, dual to the graph. The divisors are real regular KP-II divisors in the ovals of $$\Gamma $$
Γ
, i.e. they fulfill the conditions for selecting real regular finite-gap KP-II solutions in Dubrovin and Natanzon (Izv Akad Nauk SSSR Ser Mat 52:267–286, 1988). Since the soliton data are described by points in $${{\mathcal {S}}}_{{\mathcal {M}}}^{\text{ TNN }}$$

S

M

TNN

, we establish a bridge between real regular finite-gap KP-II solutions (Dubrovin and Natanzon, 1988) and real regular multi-line KP-II solitons which are known to be parameterized by points in $$Gr^{\text{ TNN }}(k,n)$$

G

r

TNN

(
k
,
n
)

(Chakravarty and Kodama in Stud Appl Math 123:83–151, 2009; Kodama and Williams in Invent Math 198:637–699, 2014). We use the geometric characterization of spaces of relations on plabic networks introduced in Abenda and Grinevich (Adv Math 406:108523, 2022; Int Math Res Not 2022:rnac162, 2022. https://doi.org/10.1093/imrn/rnac162) to prove the invariance of this construction with respect to the many gauge freedoms on the network. Such systems of relations were proposed in Lam (in: Current developments in mathematics, International Press, Somerville, 2014) for the computation of scattering amplitudes for on-shell diagrams $$N=4$$

N
=
4

SYM (Arkani-Hamed et al. in Grassmannian geometry of scattering amplitudes, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 2016) and govern the totally non-negative amalgamation of the little positive Grassmannians, $$Gr^{\text{ TP }}(1,3)$$

G

r

TP

(
1
,
3
)

and $$Gr^{\text{ TP }}(2,3)$$

G

r

TP

(
2
,
3
)

, into any given positroid cell $${{\mathcal {S}}}_{{\mathcal {M}}}^{\text{ TNN }}\subset {Gr^{\text{ TNN }} (k,n)}$$

S

M

TNN

⊂

G

r

TNN

(
k
,
n
)

. In our setting they control the reality and regularity properties of the KP-II divisor. Finally, we explain the transformation of both the curve and the divisor both under Postnikov’s moves and reductions and under amalgamation of positroid cells, and apply our construction to some examples.
Role of SIRT3 in neurological diseases and rehabilitation training
Authors: Li Yanlin , Li Jing , Wu Guangbin , Yang Hua , Yang Xiaosong , Wang Dongyu , He Yanhui
Published: November 2022

Sirtuin3 (SIRT3) is a deacetylase that plays an important role in normal physiological activities by regulating a variety of substrates. Considerable evidence has shown that the content and activity of SIRT3 are altered in neurological diseases. Furthermore, SIRT3 affects the occurrence and development of neurological diseases. In most cases, SIRT3 can inhibit clinical manifestations of neurological diseases by promoting autophagy, energy production, and stabilization of mitochondrial dynamics, and by inhibiting neuroinflammation, apoptosis, and oxidative stress (OS). However, SIRT3 may sometimes have the opposite effect. SIRT3 can promote the transfer of microglia. Microglia in some cases promote ischemic brain injury, and in some cases inhibit ischemic brain injury. Moreover, SIRT3 can promote the accumulation of ceramide, which can worsen the damage caused by cerebral ischemia–reperfusion (I/R). This review comprehensively summarizes the different roles and related mechanisms of SIRT3 in neurological diseases. Moreover, to provide more ideas for the prognosis of neurological diseases, we summarize several SIRT3-mediated rehabilitation training methods.
Market forces in Italian academia today (and yesterday)
Authors: Zanardello Chiara
Published: November 2022

This paper investigates the operation of the academic market in Italy, mapping current scholars’ location choices. I build a new dataset of current professors, associating each scholar with a composite indicator of their quality. The analysis includes the quality of the university and the features of the city where the institution is located. I estimate the strength of different factors: gravity (distance), agglomeration (scholars are attracted to higher quality universities), selection (better scholars travel longer distances), and sorting (the better the scholar, the more the quality of universities is weighted). I find that all of these factors have an effect, and do not vary according to scholars’ gender. I find a greater expected utility for scholars in choosing private universities over public ones, through a consistent nesting procedure. Comparing these forces to historical trends in Italian academia, the sorting effect delineates a new momentum for the current academic market in Italy.
Taking the Russo-Williamson thesis seriously in the social sciences
Authors: Ghiara Virginia
Published: November 2022

The Russo Williamson thesis (RWT) states that a causal claim can be established only if it can be established that there is a difference-making relationship between the cause and the effect, and that there is a mechanism linking the cause and the effect that is responsible for such a difference-making relationship (Russo & Williamson, 2007). The applicability of Russo and Williamson’s idea was hugely debated in relation to biomedical research, and recently it has been applied to the social sciences (Shan & Williamson, 2021). While many philosophers and social scientists have advocated the use of different kinds of evidence for causal discoveries, others have criticised this approach. With this paper, I aim to defend RWT from criticisms and to show its importance in the social sciences. The paper is structured as follows. After a brief introduction, in Sect. 2, I will summarise RWT, and in Sect. 3 I will describe how this approach can be applied to the social sciences. In Sect. 4, I will reconstruct two main criticisms of this thesis proposed in the philosophy of the social sciences literature: namely (i) RWT is not used in the social sciences, (ii) RWT does not work. For each criticism I will provide a defence of RWT. My defence will be based on two general considerations: (i) RWT appears perfectly in line with the research methods used in the social sciences and (ii) RWT can be applied successfully to establish causal claims. In Sect. 5, moreover, I will examine the causal accounts that have motivated such criticisms and I will argue that they should be rejected to endorse RWT and a causal account able to accommodate the current use of mechanistic and difference-making evidence in the social sciences. Section 6 will conclude with a note on the relevance of RWT in both its descriptive and normative form.
Utility of non-contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging in predicting preoperative clinical stage and prognosis in patients with thymic epithelial tumor
Authors: Kuhara Asako , Sumi Akiko , Chikasue Tomonori , Kawaguchi Atsushi , Tanoue Shuichi , Nagata Shuji , Koganemaru Masamichi , Abe Toshi , Kashihara Masaki , Mitsuoka Masahiro , Ishii Hidenobu , Ohshima Koichi , Leung Ann N. C. , Fujimoto Kiminori
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to find useful imaging features on non-contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) that can divide patients with thymic epithelial tumor (TET) into clinical stage I-II and III-IV groups under assumption that contrast media are contraindicated.

Materials and methods

This retrospective study included 106 patients (median age, 60 years; range, 27–82 years; 62 women) with surgically resected TET who underwent MRI between August 1986 and July 2015. All cases were classified according to the 2015 WHO classification and staged using the eighth edition of the TNM system. Two radiologists independently evaluated 14 categories of MRI findings; the findings in patients with stage I-II were compared with those of patients with stage III-IV using a logistic regression model. Disease-specific survival associated with significant findings was calculated using the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

Univariate analysis showed that stage III-IV patients were more likely to have tumors with an irregular contour, heterogeneity on T1WI, low-signal intensity on T2WI, irregular border with lung, findings of great vessel invasion (GVI) (hereafter, GVI sign), pericardial thickening/nodule, and lymphadenopathy (all, P < 0.01). On multivariable analysis, only two findings, irregular border between tumor and lung (odds ratio [OR], 272.8; 95% CI 26.6–2794.1; P < 0.001) and positive GVI sign (OR, 49.3; 95% CI 4.5–539.8; P = 0.001) remained statistically significant. Patients with one or both features had significantly worse survival (log-rank test, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

For patients with TET who are unable to receive contrast for preoperative staging, the two image findings of an irregular border between tumor and lung and the positive GVI sign on non-contrast-enhanced MRI could be helpful in determining stage III-IV disease which is associated with a worse survival.
Nonbrain metastases seen on magnetic resonance imaging during metastatic brain tumor screening
Authors: Sakai Mio , Kashiwagi Nobuo , Nakanishi Katsuyuki , Maeda Noboru , Nakaya Yasuhiro , Tanaka Junichiro , Watanabe Shinichiro , Hongyo Hidenari , Tanaka Yu , Yamada Sawaka , Kawata Atsushi , Toda Sou , Takano Koji , Arita Hideyuki , Tomiyama Noriyuki
Published: November 2022

Although metastases found during head magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are not limited to metastatic brain tumors, the MRI is a very common method for “brain metastasis screening,” a modality that is being increasingly performed. In this review, we describe MRI findings of nonbrain metastases and discuss ways to avoid missing these lesions. Metastatic cranial bone tumors are among the most common nonbrain metastatic lesions found on head MRI, followed by leptomeningeal carcinomatosis. The other less-frequent metastatic lesions include those in the ventricle/choroid plexus, the pituitary gland and stalk, and the pineal gland. Metastases in the head and neck area, as well as cranial and intracranial lesions, should be carefully evaluated. Furthermore, direct geographical invasion, perineural spread, and double cancers should also be considered. While it is important to recognize these metastatic lesions on MRI, because they may necessitate a change in treatment strategy that could lead to an improvement in prognosis due to early introduction of therapy, nonbrain lesions should also be given greater attention, given the increasing survival of patients with cancer and advances in MRI technology, such as contrast-enhanced-3D T1-weighted imaging.
Co-application of salicylic acid and spermine alleviates salt stress toxicity in wheat: growth, nutrient acquisition, osmolytes accumulation, and antioxidant response
Authors: Talaat Neveen B. , Mahmoud Abdel Wahab M. , Hanafy Alaa M. A.
Published: November 2022

Salicylic acid (SA) and spermine (SPM) elicit particular responses in response to various environmental stressors. However, there is little known about the underlying mechanism of their combination treatments' mediating effect on salt stress tolerance. In this investigation, the potential impact of 100 mg L−1 SA and/or 30 mg L−1 SPM in avoiding salt damage at saline environments of 6.0 and 12.0 dS m–1 in wheat was examined. Results showed that by increasing mineral acquisition, chlorophyll a and b contents, antioxidant enzymes activity, osmolytes accumulation, leaf water content, grains carbohydrate and protein content as well as reducing Na+ accumulation, membrane electrolyte leakage, malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide contents, exogenously applied SA and/or SPM significantly reduced the detrimental impacts of soil salinization and increased wheat growth and productivity. The best outcomes came from combining the SA and SPM treatments. Overall, this combined treatment enhanced mineral homeostasis, osmolytes accumulation, and antioxidant response, pointing to a potential role for it in minimizing the negative consequences of salt stress. Therefore, combining SA and SPM in a sustainable agricultural system can be viewed as a successful technique for reducing salt damage.
Small area estimation of health insurance coverage for Kenyan counties
Authors: Mutai Noah Cheruiyot
Published: November 2022

Health insurance is important in disease management, access to quality health care and attaining Universal Health Care. National and regional data on health insurance coverage needed for policy making is mostly obtained from household surveys; however, estimates at lower administrative units like at the county level in Kenya are highly variable due to small sample sizes. Small area estimation combines survey and census data using a model to increases the effective sample size and therefore provides more precise estimates. In this study we estimate the health insurance coverage for Kenyan counties using a binary M‑quantile small area model for women$$(n=14{,}730)$$(n=14,730)and men$$(n=12{,}007)$$(n=12,007)aged 15 to 49 years old. This has the advantage that we avoid specifying the distribution of the random effects and distributional robustness is automatically achieved. The response variable is derived from the Kenya Demographic and Health Survey 2014 and auxiliary data from the Kenya Population and Housing Census 2009. We estimate the mean squared error using an analytical approach based on Taylor series linearization. The national direct health insurance coverage estimates are$$18\%$$18%and$$21\%$$21%for women and men respectively. With the current health insurance schemes, coverage remains low across the 47 counties. These county-level estimates are helpful in formulating decentralized policies and funding models.
Almost continuous Sierpiński–Zygmund functions under different set-theoretical assumptions
Authors: Ciesielski Krzysztof Chris , Natkaniec Tomasz , Rodríguez-Vidanes Daniel L.
Published: November 2022

A function $$f:\mathbb {R}\rightarrow \mathbb {R}$$

f
:
R
→
R

is: almost continuous in the sense of Stallings, $$f\in \textrm{AC}$$

f
∈
AC

, if each open set $$G\subset \mathbb {R}^2$$

G
⊂

R

2

containing the graph of f contains also the graph of a continuous function $$g:\mathbb {R}\rightarrow \mathbb {R}$$

g
:
R
→
R

; Sierpiński–Zygmund, $$f\in \textrm{SZ}$$

f
∈
SZ

(or, more generally, $$f\in \textrm{SZ}(\textrm{Bor})$$

f
∈
SZ
(
Bor
)

), provided its restriction $$f\restriction M$$

f
↾
M

is discontinuous (not Borel, respectively) for any $$M\subset \mathbb {R}$$

M
⊂
R

of cardinality continuum. It is known that an example of a Sierpiński–Zygmund almost continuous function $$f:\mathbb {R}\rightarrow \mathbb {R}$$

f
:
R
→
R

(i.e., an $$f\in \textrm{SZ}\cap \textrm{AC}$$

f
∈
SZ
∩
AC

) cannot be constructed in ZFC; however, an $$f\in \textrm{SZ}\cap \textrm{AC}$$

f
∈
SZ
∩
AC

exists under the additional set-theoretical assumption $${{\,\textrm{cov}\,}}(\mathcal {M})=\mathfrak {c}$$

cov

(
M
)
=
c

, that is, that $$\mathbb {R}$$
R
cannot be covered by less than $$\mathfrak {c}$$
c
-many meager sets. The primary purpose of this paper is to show that the existence of an $$f\in \textrm{SZ}\cap \textrm{AC}$$

f
∈
SZ
∩
AC

is also consistent with ZFC plus the negation of $${{\,\textrm{cov}\,}}(\mathcal {M})=\mathfrak {c}$$

cov

(
M
)
=
c

. More precisely, we show that it is consistent with ZFC+$${{\,\textrm{cov}\,}}(\mathcal {M})<\mathfrak {c}$$

cov

(
M
)
<
c

(follows from the assumption that $${{\,\textrm{non}\,}}(\mathcal {N})<{{\,\textrm{cov}\,}}(\mathcal {N})=\mathfrak {c}$$

non

(
N
)
<

cov

(
N
)
=
c

) that there is an $$f\in \textrm{SZ}(\textrm{Bor})\cap \textrm{AC}$$

f
∈
SZ
(
Bor
)
∩
AC

and that such a map may have even stronger properties expressed in the language of Darboux-like functions. We also examine, assuming either $${{\,\textrm{cov}\,}}(\mathcal {M})=\mathfrak {c}$$

cov

(
M
)
=
c

or $${{\,\textrm{non}\,}}(\mathcal {N})<{{\,\textrm{cov}\,}}(\mathcal {N})=\mathfrak {c}$$

non

(
N
)
<

cov

(
N
)
=
c

, the lineability and the additivity coefficient of the class of all almost continuous Sierpiński–Zygmund functions. Several open problems are also stated.
Silver adsorption on biochar produced from spent coffee grounds: validation by kinetic and isothermal modelling
Authors: Islam Md Anwarul , Parvin Mst Irin , Dada Tewodros Kassa , Kumar Ravinder , Antunes Elsa
Published: November 2022

This study investigates silver adsorption on biochar produced from pyrolysis of spent coffee grounds (SCGs). Biochars were produced from SCGs at temperatures between 500 and 1000 °C. SCG-derived biochars were then characterised by different analytical methods, such as Brunauer-Emmet-Teller (BET), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and investigated for silver removal. The results revealed that the biochar produced at 500 °C offered a maximum surface area of 40.1 m2/g with a yield of 23.48% biochar and the highest silver adsorption capacity of 49.0 mg/g with 99.9% silver removal efficiency. The morphology of adsorbed silver on biochar was determined using scanning electron microscopy–energy-dispersive spectrometry (SEM–EDS), and XRD analyses, which showed an even distribution of silver on the biochar surface. Furthermore, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) confirmed that part of the silver ions was reduced to form metallic silver (Ag0)/silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) during adsorption. The kinetics and isothermal evaluation suggested that silver adsorption was dominated by the pseudo-second-order model and Langmuir isotherm, which means that silver adsorption was mainly dominated by chemisorption and monolayer on biochar surface. Overall, this study suggests that 500 °C was the most feasible pyrolysis temperature to produce SCG-derived biochar with suitable physicochemical properties that can efficiently adsorb silver species from wastewater.

Graphical Abstract
Carbon-Nitride-Based Materials for Advanced Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Sun Wenhao , Song Zihao , Feng Zhenxing , Huang Yaqin , Xu Zhichuan J. , Lu Yi-Chun , Zou Qingli
Published: November 2022

Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries are promising candidates for next-generation energy storage systems owing to their high energy density and low cost. However, critical challenges including severe shuttling of lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) and sluggish redox kinetics limit the practical application of Li–S batteries. Carbon nitrides (CxNy), represented by graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4), provide new opportunities for overcoming these challenges. With a graphene-like structure and high pyridinic-N content, g-C3N4 can effectively immobilize LiPSs and enhance the redox kinetics of S species. In addition, its structure and properties including electronic conductivity and catalytic activity can be regulated by simple methods that facilitate its application in Li–S batteries. Here, the recent progress of applying CxNy-based materials including the optimized g-C3N4, g-C3N4-based composites, and other novel CxNy materials is systematically reviewed in Li–S batteries, with a focus on the structure–activity relationship. The limitations of existing CxNy-based materials are identified, and the perspectives on the rational design of advanced CxNy-based materials are provided for high-performance Li–S batteries.
Electron-Deficient Zn-N6 Configuration Enabling Polymeric Carbon Nitride for Visible-Light Photocatalytic Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Zhao Daming , Wang Yiqing , Dong Chung-Li , Meng Fanqi , Huang Yu-Cheng , Zhang Qinghua , Gu Lin , Liu Lan , Shen Shaohua
Published: November 2022

Despite of suitable band structures for harvesting solar light and driving water redox reactions, polymeric carbon nitride (PCN) has suffered from poor charge transfer ability and sluggish surface reaction kinetics, which limit its photocatalytic activity for water splitting. Herein, atomically dispersed Zn-coordinated three-dimensional (3D) sponge-like PCN (Zn-PCN) is synthesized through a novel intermediate coordination strategy. Advanced characterizations and theoretical calculations well evidence that Zn single atoms are coordinated and stabilized on PCN in the form of Zn-N6 configuration featured with an electron-deficient state. Such an electronic configuration has been demonstrated contributive to promoted electron excitation, accelerated charge separation and transfer as well as reduced water redox barriers. Further benefited from the abundant surface active sites derived from the 3D porous structure, Zn-PCN realizes visible-light photocatalysis for overall water splitting with H2 and O2 simultaneously evolved at a stoichiometric ratio of 2:1. This work brings new insights into the design of novel single-atom photocatalysts by deepening the understanding of electronic configurations and reactive sites favorable to excellent photocatalysis for water splitting and related solar energy conversion reactions. "Image missing"
AIoT-Based Ergometer for Physical Training in Frail Elderly with Cognitive Decline: A Pilot Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Lin Chih-Chun , Kuo Li-Chieh , Lin Yu-Sheng , Chang Chia-Ming , Hu Fang Wen , Chen Yi-Jing , Lin Chun-Tse , Su Fong-Chin
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Reduced physical activity is reported in the elderly, especially in institutional residents. Institutionalized older adults exhibit a high prevalence of frailty. In this work, we developed an artificial intelligence of things (AIoT)-based feedback assistive strengthening ergometer (AIFASE), for the physical strengthening of the elderly with intelligent assistance.

Methods

We conducted a 12-week intervention in a long-term care facility. In total, 16 participants (84.38 ± 6.0 years; 4 males and 12 females) were recruited with 1:1 randomization of exercise to control groups. The muscle strength of the lower extremities, timed up and go test (TUG), and Short-form Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) of the participants were measured. The AIFASE system allows the clinical staff to record the personal physical performance of the elderly and generates personalized exercise prescriptions accordingly. AIFASE also displays the current usage status of all ergometers and the users’ physiological conditions. The algorithms were developed to generate warning alerts when the training workload was too large by personal physiological detection. AIFASE automatically customized the exercise prescription according to the user’s exercise performance.

Results

After a 12-week AIFASE intervention, the intervention group exhibited significant improvements in the strength of the hip flexor, Semi-Tandem Stand, and Tandem Stand.

Conclusion

In this study, we developed an AIoT ergometer that delivered customized physical training prescriptions to improve the physical performance of long-term care facility residents. We believe that the application of AIFASE will help improve the quality of institutional care.