bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visualizing metabolomics data with R
Authors: Berker Yannick , Muti Isabella H. , Cheng Leo L.
Published: November 2022

In communicating scientific results, convincing data visualization is of utmost importance. Especially in metabolomics, results based on large numbers of dimensions and variables necessitate particular attention in order to convey their message unambiguously to the reader; also, in the era of open science, traceability and reproducibility are becoming increasingly important. This article describes the use of the R programming language to visualize published metabolomics data resulting from ex vivo NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry experiments with a special focus on reproducibility, including example figures as well as associated R code for ease of reuse. Examples include various types of plots (bar plots, swarm plots, and violin plots; volcano plots, heatmaps, Euler diagrams, Kaplan–Meier survival plots) and annotations (groupings, intragroup line connections, significance brackets, text annotations). Advantages of code‐generated plots as well as advanced techniques and best practices are discussed.
Quantifying the phenome‐wide disease burden of obesity using electronic health records and genomics
Authors: Robinson Jamie R. , Carroll Robert J. , Bastarache Lisa , Chen Qingxia , Pirruccello James , Mou Zongyang , Wei Wei‐Qi , Connolly John , Mentch Frank , Crane Paul K. , Hebbring Scott J. , Crosslin David R. , Gordon Adam S. , Rosenthal Elisabeth A. , Stanaway Ian B. , Hayes M. Geoffrey , Wei Wei , Petukhova Lynn , Namjou‐Khales Bahram , Zhang Ge , Safarova Mayya S. , Walton Nephi A. , Still Christopher , Bottinger Erwin P. , Loos Ruth J. F. , Murphy Shawn N. , Jackson Gretchen P. , Abumrad Naji , Kullo Iftikhar J. , Jarvik Gail P. , Larson Eric B. , Weng Chunhua , Roden Dan , Khera Amit V. , Denny Joshua C.
Published: November 2022

Objective

High BMI is associated with many comorbidities and mortality. This study aimed to elucidate the overall clinical risk of obesity using a genome‐ and phenome‐wide approach.

Methods

This study performed a phenome‐wide association study of BMI using a clinical cohort of 736,726 adults. This was followed by genetic association studies using two separate cohorts: one consisting of 65,174 adults in the Electronic Medical Records and Genomics (eMERGE) Network and another with 405,432 participants in the UK Biobank.

Results

Class 3 obesity was associated with 433 phenotypes, representing 59.3% of all billing codes in individuals with severe obesity. A genome‐wide polygenic risk score for BMI, accounting for 7.5% of variance in BMI, was associated with 296 clinical diseases, including strong associations with type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, hypertension, and chronic liver disease. In all three cohorts, 199 phenotypes were associated with class 3 obesity and polygenic risk for obesity, including novel associations such as increased risk of renal failure, venous insufficiency, and gastroesophageal reflux.

Conclusions

This combined genomic and phenomic systematic approach demonstrated that obesity has a strong genetic predisposition and is associated with a considerable burden of disease across all disease classes.
Improved thermostimulative shape memory behavior of HDPE/PET immiscible blend‐based polymer nanocomposite using amphiphilic Janus nanoparticles
Authors: Sharifzadeh Esmail , Azimi Neda , Mohammadi Reza
Published: November 2022

In the study, the impact of homogeneously modified (HM) and Janus silica nanoparticles on the thermostimulative shape memory effect of high‐density polyethylene/poly(ethylene terephthalate) blend‐based polymer nanocomposites (BPN) is investigated. It is shown that the physical/mechanical characteristics of the polymer/polymer interface have a determinative role in defining the shape memory effect of the system. Accordingly, the effect of each nanoparticle type on this region is precisely evaluated and interpreted. The Janus nanoparticles are synthesized via a two‐step desymmetrization process in Pickering emulsion, using different polar/apolar silane agents, while a single‐step modification procedure is used to perform the homogenous modification. The designing stages of a comprehensive analytical model are discussed which is used to evaluate the corporation level of the HM and Janus nanoparticles in the recovery mechanism of the BPN samples. The results of different characterizing tests (e.g., tensile, recovery, dynamic mechanical thermal analysis, rheology, etc.) are proposed to demonstrate the impact of different types of nanoparticles on the polymer/polymer interface and shape memory effect (SME) in each sample. It is proved that the BPN samples containing Janus nanoparticles have the strongest SME, in both stretching and bending modes, even better than similar systems containing small molecule compatibilizers.
Effect of Trikafta on bone density, body composition and exercise capacity in CF: A pilot study
Authors: Gur Michal , Bar–Yoseph Ronen , Hanna Moneera , Abboud Dana , Keidar Zohar , Palchan Tala , Toukan Yazeed , Masarweh Kamal , Alisha Irit , Zuckerman‐Levin Nehama , Bentur Lea
Published: November 2022

Background

While the positive effect of Trikafta on cystic fibrosis (CF) pulmonary disease is well established, there is limited data about its effect on bone mineral density (BMD), body composition and exercise capacity.

Methods

A pilot single center study. BMD and body composition were measured three months after the initiation of Trikafta (study group) and compared to values obtained 2 years earlier. CF patients not treated with Trikafta, for whom BMD was measured 2 years apart, served as controls. Spirometry, lung clearance index (LCI), sweat test, six‐min walk test (6MWT) and cardio‐pulmonary exercise test (CPET) were performed before and three months after the initiation of Trikafta.

Results

Nine study patients, aged 18.6 ± 4.7 years, and nine controls. For the study group, BMI and hip and spine BMD increased significantly (19.4 ± 2.6 to 20.3 ± 2.19 BMI, p = 0.05; 0.73 ± 0.098 to 0.81 ± 0.12 gr/cm2 hip, p = 0.017; 0.76 ± 0.14 to 0.82 ± 0.14 gr/cm2 spine, p = 0.025). For the control group, there was no difference in hip or spine BMD. Lean body mass, %fat z‐score and fat mass/height2 z‐score increased significantly (34770.23 ± 10521.21 to 37430.16 ± 10330.09gr, p = 0.017; –0.8 ± 0.75 to 0.46 ± 0.58, p = 0.012; and −0.98 ± 0.66 to −0.04 ± 0.51, p = 0.025, respectively). 6MWT improved from 541.1 ± 48.9 to 592.9 ± 54.5 m (p = 0.046). As expected, FEV1%pred increased (p = 0.008) and sweat chloride decreased significantly (p = 0.017). In CPET, VE/VCO2 improved, indicating better ventilatory efficiency.

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study evaluating the metabolic effects of Trikafta. The results are encouraging and offer hope beyond the well‐established effect on pulmonary disease. Larger long‐term studies are warranted to unpin the underlying physiological mechanisms.
Reaching global leaderless consensus in directed networks via smooth and bounded control
Authors: Yu Xiao , Lan Weiyao
Published: November 2022

This short communication revisits the leaderless consensus problem in directed networks. The network topology is described by a general directed graph which is only needed to contain at least a directed spanning tree, and is not necessarily strongly connected. A bounded and smooth control law using the hyperbolic tangent function is developed as the consensus protocol. Explicit stability analysis based on Lyapunov's second method and the concept of condensation graph is given. The proposed approach transforms the leaderless consensus problem into two subproblems: reaching leader‐following consensus under a graph containing a directed spanning tree with the leader being the root node and reaching leaderless consensus under a strongly connected graph. Remarkably, a perturbed system is formulated as the bridge between these two subproblems which are solved by Lyapunov's second method. The global leaderless consensus is achieved based on the stability of the perturbed system. Finally, two numerical examples are presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
The importance of personal and contextual background factors on declaration of STEM majors: A focus on Native American undergraduates
Authors: Dabdoub Alise , Snyder Lori A. , Finken Allyson , Lin Li
Published: November 2022

Utilizing Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT), we investigated the importance of identity‐based factors such as personal inputs and contextual affordances (e.g., having children, being married or employed, school‐family conflict, stress, participating in Native American cultural activities) in understanding Native American undergraduates' intentions and decision to major in STEM fields. Past studies have examined the role of SCCT in undergraduate students' major choice and the underrepresentation of certain marginalized groups in STEM majors. Yet few studies have examined if these relationships extend to Native American undergraduates or how the SCCT model may vary based on the complex identities Native American peoples may hold. The findings highlight the importance of contextualizing major choice through a Native American lens. For Native American students, we find being married or employed, having children, and family stress negatively impact intent to major in STEM fields. We also find support for several SCCT variables and intent to major in STEM disciplines. Specifically, we discuss fostering identity as a scientist as a fruitful avenue for increasing intent to major in STEM fields. Results are compared to a White undergraduate group and implications are discussed for institutions of higher education and Tribal governments and leaders.
Copper‐Chitosan Beads as Efficient and Recyclable Heterogeneous Catalysts for C−H Oxidation and C−X Amination
Authors: Kanarat Jurin , Bunchuay Thanthapatra , Chutimasakul Threeraphat , Limprasart Waranya , Unlum Jetnarin , Tantirungrotechai Jonggol
Published: November 2022

Uniform millimeter‐sized copper‐incorporated chitosan beads were easily prepared via a simple synthetic method as efficient bifunctional heterogeneous catalysts for C−H oxidation of alkylarenes to ketones and C−X amination of aryl halides with ammonia. These potent catalysts were compatible to various substrates, resulting in 2–97 and 39–99 % yields for the oxidation and amination reactions, respectively. Moreover, we highlight the dual roles of chitosan that it not only served as a versatile support to enhance the catalytic performance of copper active species, but it also acted as a base to promote the catalytic reactions. The catalysts are robust and could be employed under conventional heating or microwave irradiation for several times without deactivation or deformation. The bead shape of the catalysts provides easy separation and recyclability. Thus, chitosan and this preparation method may be exploited in the development of other transition metal catalyst beads for valuable organic reactions.
Chemical Absorption of CO2 Enhanced by Solutions of Alkali Hydroxides and Alkoxides at Room Temperature
Authors: De Carvalho Pinto Plínio C. , Batista Thais V. , De Rezende Ferreira Gabriel , Voga Geison P. , Oliveira Luiz C. A. , Oliveira Henrique S. , De Souza Leonardo A. , Belchior Jadson C.
Published: November 2022

This article presents the study of CO2 capture through aqueous solutions with high basicity conditions. Systematic experiments were conducted to assess the performance of alcohols mixed with aqueous alkaline hydroxides for carbon dioxide capture. Alcohols can work as a catalyst in the capture of CO2 providing greater basicity, a lower surface tension, and an amphiphilic character in the polar aqueous solvent/ (nonpolar CO2 and N2) gas mixture interface, and a lower temperature of solvent regeneration. The results showed that short‐chain alcohols, such as methanol and ethanol, and alkaline metals of greater molar mass (i. e., K compared to Na) can produce greater basicity and a higher CO2 absorption rate in the mixtures than conventional aqueous solutions such as ammonia or monoethanolamine in the same concentration. DFT calculations of electronic and thermodynamic properties for CO2 absorption reactions were carried out to analyze the nucleophilic trend of the short‐chain alkoxides studied. The volumetric proportion between water and alcohol, as well as the concentration of alkaline hydroxide, influences the rate of CO2 absorption, the temperature of regeneration and volatility of the solvent, and the formation of precipitates. CO2 absorption rates greater than 90 % v/v and solvent regeneration temperatures of approximately 78 °C were achieved using ethanol, water, and KOH.
A DFT Computational and Synthetic Study of New Curcuminoidpropargyl Adducts with Pseudo‐Cofacial Aryl Rings
Authors: Borosky Gabriela L. , Laali Kenneth K.
Published: November 2022

With the aim to utilize transannular π‐π interactions as a driving force to assemble cofacial π‐decks, a DFT computational study was performed on the adducts resulting from coupling of curcuminoids (CURs), bearing electron‐withdrawing groups (F, CF3, SCF3, OCF3) in the aryl rings, with 1,3‐diphenylpropargyl moiety and its p‐OMe‐substituted derivatives. Detailed analysis of the structural and electronic properties of the resulting assemblies revealed the existence of intermolecular aromatic π‐π stacking interactions between one pair, and in some cases two pairs, of aryl rings. Structural/electronic changes resulting from π‐complexation to Ag+ (mono and bis adducts), and to Cr(CO)3 acting as π‐electron sink, were also examined. Motivated by the DFT computations outcomes, the feasibility to access these adducts via a simple one‐pot reaction using bismuth nitrate as catalyst was shown in representative cases, along with complexation to AgOTf via an NMR study.
Influence of Impurities from Manufacturing Process on the Toxicity Profile of Boron Nitride Nanotubes
Authors: Kodali Vamsi , Kim Keun Su , Roberts Jenny R. , Bowers Lauren , Wolfarth Michael G. , Hubczak John , Xin Xing , Eye Tracy , Friend Sherri , Stefaniak Aleksandr B. , Leonard Stephen S. , Jakubinek Michael , Erdely Aaron
Published: November 2022

The toxicity of boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) has been the subject of conflicting reports, likely due to differences in the residuals and impurities that can make up to 30–60% of the material produced based on the manufacturing processes and purification employed. Four BNNTs manufactured by induction thermal plasma process with a gradient of BNNT purity levels achieved through sequential gas purification, water and solvent washing, allowed assessing the influence of these residuals/impurities on the toxicity profile of BNNTs. Extensive characterization including infrared and X‐ray spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, size, charge, surface area, and density captured the alteration in physicochemical properties as the material went through sequential purification. The material from each step is screened using acellular and in vitro assays for evaluating general toxicity, mechanisms of toxicity, and macrophage function. As the material increased in purity, there are more high‐aspect‐ratio particulates and a corresponding distinct increase in cytotoxicity, nuclear factor‐κB transcription, and inflammasome activation. There is no alteration in macrophage function after BNNT exposure with all purity grades. The cytotoxicity and mechanism of screening clustered with the purity grade of BNNTs, illustrating that greater purity of BNNT corresponds to greater toxicity.
Hybrid MOF Template‐Directed Construction of Hollow‐Structured In2O3@ZrO2 Heterostructure for Enhancing Hydrogenation of CO2 to Methanol
Authors: Cui Wen‐Gang , Zhang Qiang , Zhou Lei , Wei Zheng‐Chang , Yu Lei , Dai Jing‐Jing , Zhang Hongbo , Hu Tong‐Liang
Published: November 2022

Direct hydrogenation of CO2 to methanol using green hydrogen has emerged as a promising method for carbon neutrality, but qualifying catalysts represent a grand challenge. In2O3/ZrO2 catalyst has been extensively applied in methanol synthesis due to its superior activity; however, the electronic effect by strong oxides‐support interactions between In2O3 and ZrO2 at the In2O3/ZrO2 interface is poorly understood. In this work, abundant In2O3/ZrO2 heterointerfaces are engineered in a hollow‐structured In2O3@ZrO2 heterostructure through a facile pyrolysis of a hybrid metal–organic framework precursor MIL‐68@UiO‐66. Owing to well‐defined In2O3/ZrO2 heterointerfaces, the resultant In2O3@ZrO2 exhibits superior activity and stability toward CO2 hydrogenation to methanol, which can afford a high methanol selectivity of 84.6% at a conversion of 10.4% at 290 °C, and 3.0 MPa with a methanol space‐time yield of up to 0.29 gMeOH gcat−1 h−1. Extensive characterization demonstrates that there is a strong correlation between the strong electronic In2O3–ZrO2 interaction and catalytic selectivity. At In2O3/ZrO2 heterointerfaces, the electron tends to transfer from ZrO2 to In2O3 surface, which facilitates H2 dissociation and the hydrogenation of formate (HCOO*) and methoxy (CH3O*) species to methanol. This study provides an insight into the In2O3‐based catalysts and offers appealing opportunities for developing heterostructured CO2 hydrogenation catalysts with excellent activity.
Doping Regulation in Polyanionic Compounds for Advanced Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Xiao Lifen , Ji Fangjie , Zhang Jiexin , Chen Xumiao , Fang Yongjin
Published: November 2022

It has long been the goal to develop rechargeable batteries with low cost and long cycling life. Polyanionic compounds offer attractive advantages of robust frameworks, long‐term stability, and cost‐effectiveness, making them ideal candidates as electrode materials for grid‐scale energy storage systems. In the past few years, various polyanionic electrodes have been synthesized and developed for sodium storage. Specifically, doping regulation including cation and anion doping has shown a great effect in tailoring the structures of polyanionic electrodes to achieve extraordinary electrochemical performance. In this review, recent progress in doping regulation in polyanionic compounds as electrode materials for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) is summarized, and their underlying mechanisms in improving electrochemical properties are discussed. Moreover, challenges and prospects for the design of advanced polyanionic compounds for SIBs are put forward. It is anticipated that further versatile strategies in developing high‐performance electrode materials for advanced energy storage devices can be inspired.
Congenital systemic chondrodysplasia in a white lion (Panthera leo)
Authors: Kutara Kenji , Kadekaru Sho , Sugisawa Reiko , Saito Fumiyo , Une Yumi
Published: November 2022

The death of a 6‐month‐old, male, white lion with micrognathia and short, thick limbs in a zoo prompted postmortem whole‐body computed tomography and head magnetic resonance imaging to be performed. Computed tomography revealed malformation of all bones. The metaphyses of the long bones were enlarged and showed fraying and cupping. Moreover, magnetic resonance imaging revealed abnormal bone tissue with reduced bone density, severe bilateral compression of the spinal cord from the stomach up to the level of the atlas and herniation of the cerebellar vermis. Histopathological examination revealed that the metaphyses of all long bones were enlarged and replaced with cartilage; however, the structure of the joints was maintained. This report presents the first case of congenital systemic chondrodysplasia identified by postmortem examination and imaging in a lion.
Convention on International Liability for Damage Caused by Space Objects
Authors: Schmalenbach Kirsten
Published: November 2022

For obvious reasons, space activities are generally classed as ultra-hazardous endeavours, i.e. they are inherently dangerous, not only for the various vehicles leaving the Earth atmosphere, but also the cargo such vehicles carry, be it human or otherwise. Additionally, space activities generate environmental risks in outer space that can, at times, impact the Earth as what goes up, must inevitably come down. The hazards of spaceflight come from multiple sources, including, but not limited to, the technology used (e.g. nuclear power sources) and the hostile nature of outer space which is difficult to reach, difficult to survive in and difficult to return from. This inherent danger has been tragically highlighted not only by the shuttle disasters involving Challenger (1986) and Columbia (2003) but also by the vast field of radioactive debris left in Canada after the uncontrolled re-entry of the Soviet satellite Cosmos 954 in 1977. The latter accident exemplifies that ultra-hazardous activities require liability rules because when something goes wrong, the consequences can be significant for any injured parties.
Functions and Objectives of Corporate Liability for Transboundary Environmental Harm
Authors: Gailhofer Peter
Published: November 2022

The goal of this chapter is to understand the functions and objectives of environmental liability law. This task requires going beyond the traditional perspective of the judge or the lawyer to a certain extent, as these roles are usually concerned with the restitution of or compensation for environmental damage that has already occurred, a repressive perspective which is typically contrasted with the preventive function of environmental liability. In line with the latter function, liability law can be considered as a regulatory approach to cope with environmental problems and thus as a complement or alternative to other instruments of international law which are designed to minimise or eliminate environmental risks.
National Civil Liability and Transboundary Environmental Damage
Authors: Gailhofer Peter
Published: November 2022

Having discussed the regulatory objectives and functions of international environmental liability (Chap.2) and the international obligations of private and public actors alike to prevent and redress environmental harm (Chaps.3and4), this and the next chapter’s point of departure is the complementary perspective of domestic law and international law on corporations’ civil liability for transnational environmental damage.
Environmental Due Diligence Obligations in Home State Law with Regard to Transnational Value Chains
Authors: Krebs David
Published: November 2022

The following chapter takes a closer look at transboundary environmental harm caused by business operations in the context of transnational value chains. Here, the transboundary character does not necessarily result from the environmental harm’s course but rather from transboundary economic causal links via transnational value chains. Consequently, the situations considered in this chapter are generally those categorised as one of the ‘type-two cases’ detailed in the previous chapter.
Geoengineering: Methods, Associated Risks and International Liability
Authors: Proelss Alexander , Steenkamp Robert C.
Published: November 2022

Climate change arguably constitutes one of the greatest risks to the long-term health of the world’s environment. In 2015, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) highlighted that the Earth’s climate system has consistently been warming since the 1950s and that a “large fraction of anthropogenic climate change resulting from CO2emissions is irreversible on a multi-century to millennial time scale, except in the case of a large net removal of CO2from the atmosphere over a sustained period”. Initial responses to climate change revolved around States attempting to reduce, rather than remove, greenhouse gas emissions. However, as the global economy expands, greenhouse gas emissions have continued to rise and cooperative arrangements aimed at reducing emissions have had limited, if any, impact. If recent predictions are to be believed, the remaining “carbon budget” needed to prevent average global temperatures from increasing by more than 1.5 °C may be exhausted by 2030. Climate Analytics estimates that the current Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) made by States under the Paris Agreement indicate that average global temperatures will rise by 2.8 °C by 2100—almost double the stipulated efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5 °C above pre-industrial levels mentioned in Article 2(1)(a) of the Paris Agreement. The recent IPCC Special Report on 1.5 °C Global Warming concludes that without “increased and urgent mitigation ambition in the coming years, leading to a sharp decline in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, global warming will [cause] irreversible loss of the most fragile ecosystems and crisis after crisis for the most vulnerable people and societies”.
Advancing the Science of Cancer in Latinos
Authors: Ramirez Amelie G. , Trapido Edward J.
Published: November 2022

Cancer is the second leading cause of death among non-Hispanic white (NHW) men and women in the United States—but is the leading cause of death among Latinos (American Cancer Society, Cancer facts and figures for Hispanics/Latinos 2018–2020. American Cancer Society, Inc., Atlanta, 2018). The US Latino population was 60.6 million in 2019, as one of the largest, youngest, and fastest growing minority groups in the United States, its population will nearly double by 2060, making up 27.5% of the projected US population (Vespa et al., Demographic turning points for the United States: population projections for 2020 to 2060. U.S. Census Bureau, Washington, DC. Report No.: P25-1144. https://www.census.gov/library/publications/2020/demo/p25-1144.html. Accessed 25 Aug 2021, 2020; Noe-Bustamante et al., Hispanic population surpassed 60 million in 2019, but growth has slowed. Pew Research Center. https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2020/07/07/u-s-hispanic-population-surpassed-60-million-in-2019-but-growth-has-slowed/. Accessed 28 Aug 2021, 2020). Thus, advancing the science of cancer in Latinos has become an imperative for the nation, as Latinos will contribute a significant portion to its future cancer burden.
A Strength-Based Approach to Cancer Prevention in Latinxs
Authors: Torrez-Ruiz Marisa S. , Soto Sandra , Lopez Nanette V. , Arredondo Elva M.
Published: November 2022

As Latinxs become exposed to US culture, their risk for many chronic diseases increases, including the risk of cancer. On average, less acculturated Latinxs consume more nutrient-dense foods including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains; they are also more active than their US counterparts because they use active transportation. Cultural and behavioral patterns of recent immigrants may prove to be protective; these patterns are based on the Latinx values of collectivism, familismo, and personalismo. As generational status in the United States increases, positive health behaviors related to dietary intake and activity diminish. Interventions that reinforce these practices may mitigate the negative effects of the acculturation process by capitalizing on behaviors that are protective against the risk of cancer. Traditional Latinx cultural values can be integrated into public health practice and intervention, preserving traditional Latinx practices that are protective and promote positive health outcomes. The integration of cultural beliefs and values into research studies will increase relevancy for Latinx participants and contribute to compliance and long-term participation for improved population health.
Overcoming Clinical Research Disparities by Advancing Inclusive Research
Authors: Gonzales Melissa
Published: November 2022

Achieving personalized healthcare for all people, including the most vulnerable Hispanic communities, may appear to be an insurmountable task or an impossible reality. Biotech pioneer and thought leader Genentech, a member of the Roche Group, has taken deliberate and strategic steps toward reaching this goal. Strategic priorities for this effort include developing policies focused on inclusive practices, increasing the amount of genomic data and scientific insights from underrepresented populations, and leveraging partner relationships to develop actionable strategies to increase clinical research participation. Through collaboration with the broader healthcare ecosystem, progress can be made to help remove systemic barriers for communities of color and build a future of precision medicine.
The Road to Cervical Cancer Elimination
Authors: Giuliano Anna R.
Published: November 2022

An estimated 34,800 cancers in the United States were caused by HPV between 2012 and 2016. Among those cancers (cervical, vulvar, vaginal, anal, oropharyngeal, and penile), the overwhelming majority can be prevented with vaccination and cervical cancer screening and treatment. While the incidence of cervical cancer has significantly declined in all populations in the United States since 1975, Hispanic women continue to have significantly higher rates of cervical cancer than non-Hispanic White and Black women. In 2018, the director of the WHO announced his call to action for the global elimination of cervical cancer which is defined as an incidence of <4/100,000. Mathematical models indicate that the United States can achieve the goal of cervical cancer elimination (reducing incidence from ~7/100,000 to <4/100,000) by 2030 if we meet the goals set for the country for both vaccination and screening/treatment. The fastest way to achieve the goal is to ensure that all age-eligible women follow cervical cancer screening guidelines, which are for 93% of females to be screened for cervical cancer. Currently only 80% of women follow this recommendation, with lower percentages among Hispanic women (70–78%). Of concern, the percentage of women following screening recommendations appears to be on the decline in the United States. While the rate of HPV vaccination coverage is far below the national goal of 80%, overall Hispanic adolescents have higher vaccine coverage (56.6%) compared to non-Hispanic White (47.8%) and Black (53.3%) adolescents. There is a need to communicate the HPV vaccine’s effectiveness to increase its acceptance, and there is also an ongoing need to promote cervical cancer screening. In addition, providers must consistently deliver strong and linguistically/culturally relevant recommendations for both vaccination and screening.
Cancer Care Delivery Among Breast Cancer Patients: Is it the Same for All?
Authors: Malinowski Catalina , Chavez Mac Gregor Mariana
Published: November 2022

Among Hispanic women, breast cancer is the most common cancer accounting for close to 30% of the total cancer cases. It is estimated that in 2018 alone, 24,000 Hispanics were diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. Of significant importance is that breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death (16%) among Hispanic women, with over 3000 patients dying in 2018 secondary to this disease.

Despite the decrease in breast cancer mortality rates seen in recent years, the magnitude of that decrease among Hispanics is lower compared to the decrease seen among non-Hispanic White women (1.1% per year vs 1.8% per year). Potential contributing factors associated with this phenomenon include the fact that Hispanics are more likely to be diagnosed with more advanced stages and to have tumors with aggressive biology. In addition, sociodemographic factors and difficulty accessing medical care are likely to play an important role. It has been described that Hispanic women are less likely that non-Hispanic Whites to receive appropriate and timely breast cancer treatment. In this chapter, we will review the complexities of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. We will briefly review some of the challenges in cancer care delivery that Hispanics experience and will review data describing the detrimental impact that treatment delays can have among minorities and some of the unique challenges that Hispanics experience.
Genetic Ancestry and Breast Cancer Subtypes in Hispanic/Latina Women
Authors: Tamayo Lizeth I. , Day-Friedland Elam , Zavala Valentina A. , Marker Katie M. , Fejerman Laura
Published: November 2022

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among US Hispanics/Latinas; however, Hispanic/Latina women in the United States have historically shown a relatively low breast cancer incidence compared to non-Hispanic White or African American/Black women. Hispanics/Latinos are genetically diverse, with varying proportions of European, Indigenous American, African, and to a lesser extent, Asian continental genetic ancestry. This heterogeneous group has often been treated as a monolithic unit in cancer epidemiology, due to small sample sizes and the concomitant limitations in statistical power. Only a few breast cancer studies including Hispanics/Latinas have analyzed the correlation between individual genetic ancestry proportion and tumor subtype. Most of these studies were unable to provide conclusive evidence due to the reduced number of patients with available tumor subtype information (either from immunohistochemical markers or gene expression data). This chapter provides a brief description of results reported from breast cancer studies including US Hispanic/Latina or Latin American patients assessing the association/correlation between genetic ancestry and breast cancer subtype. Also discussed are possible explanations for reported findings and a perspective on how further studies could lead to more precise tumor subtype-specific risk assessment, treatment efficacy, and outcome prognosis in US Hispanics/Latinas and Latin American women.
Functionality
Authors: Heikkilä Riie
Published: November 2022

This chapter focuses on the second out of three discourses found in the data. Within this ‘functionality discourse’, there is mainly popular and everyday participation. This discourse emphasises the practical usefulness of cultural practices: it is an area of personal ‘feelgood’. The functionality discourse is marked by a link between cultural participation and the structuring factors of life. At the same time, cultural participation is rarely conceived of as culturally distinctive. There is an emphasis on modesty, but the boundaries drawn are aesthetical and directed upwards towards impractical cultural practices. In other words, in the functionality discourse, there are delicate traces of anti-elitism. This indifferent and self-assured attitude towards cultural participation that characterises the functionality discourse could be considered a version of egalitarianism.
Flipped Voltage Follower-Based Voltage Conveyors: Investigation and Possible Enhancements
Authors: Psychalinos Costas , Yesil Abdullah , Minaei Shahram , Bertsias Panagiotis
Published: November 2022

Second-generation voltage conveyor structures, based on the employment of flipped voltage follower stages, are investigated and proposed in this work. The proposed core has the feature of offering extremely low or electronically adjustable input resistance and programmable outputs, enhancing the achieved design flexibility and versatility of this active cell. Two design examples are presented in this work, including a multi-phase sinusoidal oscillator topology and an electronically adjustable first-order low-pass filter, both supported by simulation and experimental results.
Schnellschnittdiagnostik bei Tumoren des Trigonum submandibulare
Authors: Riemann S. , Knopf A.
Published: November 2022

Hintergrund

Die Diagnostik und Therapie von submandibulär gelegenen Läsionen ist eine Herausforderung. Die häufig vorkommenden Karzinome sollten hinreichend sicher operativ entfernt und gleichsam funktionelle Strukturen zuverlässig geschützt werden. Insbesondere der Erhalt neuronaler Strukturen bei gleichzeitiger Tumorkontrolle lässt einzeitige Konzepte zweckdienlich erscheinen, wenngleich diese nicht hinreichend etabliert sind. Ziel der Studie war die Beurteilung der intraoperativen Schnellschnittdiagnostik als mögliche Grundlage eines einzeitigen chirurgischen Therapiekonzepts und somit die Verhinderung funktioneller Alterationen durch Reoperationen.

Methoden

Es wurden 114 konsekutive Patient*innen in die Studie eingeschlossen, bei denen nach der HNO-Spiegeluntersuchung und bildgebender Diagnostik die Artigkeit der Läsion nicht zugeordnet werden konnte. Patient*innen mit bekanntem Karzinom in der Vorgeschichte oder Hinweis auf eine akut entzündliche/karzinogene Primärläsion in der HNO- und/oder bildgebenden Untersuchung wurden ausgeschlossen. Es wurde eine intraoperative Schnellschnittdiagnostik mit der Fragestellung nach Vorliegen eines Karzinoms durchgeführt. Patient*innenbezogene Daten sowie die Zuverlässigkeit des Schnellschnittergebnisses wurden vergleichend erfasst.

Ergebnisse

Bei insgesamt 114 Patient*innen wurde ein intraoperativer Schnellschnitt durchgeführt. Karzinome wurden mit einer Sensitivität von 87 % und einer Spezifität von 100 % diagnostiziert. Die durchgeführte Diagnostik hätte somit dazu geführt, dass in einem einzeitigen Konzept kein Patient unnötig radikal operiert worden wäre. Bei 26 von 30 Patient*innen hätte ein Zweiteingriff vermieden werden können.

Schlussfolgerung

Die intraoperative Schnellschnittdiagnostik stellt potenziell eine wichtige Methode dar, um Karzinome histologisch zu bestätigen und zweizeitige Vorgehen zu vermeiden. Das Fehlen falsch-positiver Befunde hätte ein unerwünscht radikales Vorgehen bei 100 % der Patient*innen verhindert.
Random Cluster Model on Regular Graphs
Authors: Bencs Ferenc , Borbényi Márton , Csikvári Péter
Published: November 2022

For a graph $$G=(V,E)$$

G
=
(
V
,
E
)

with v(G) vertices the partition function of the random cluster model is defined by $$\begin{aligned} Z_G(q,w)=\sum _{A\subseteq E(G)}q^{k(A)}w^{|A|}, \end{aligned}$$

Z
G

(
q
,
w
)

=

∑

A
⊆
E
(
G
)

q

k
(
A
)

w

|
A
|

,

where k(A) denotes the number of connected components of the graph (V, A). Furthermore, let g(G) denote the girth of the graph G, that is, the length of the shortest cycle. In this paper we show that if $$(G_n)_n$$

(

G
n

)

n

is a sequence of d-regular graphs such that the girth $$g(G_n)\rightarrow \infty $$

g
(

G
n

)
→
∞

, then the limit $$\begin{aligned} \lim _{n\rightarrow \infty } \frac{1}{v(G_n)}\ln Z_{G_n}(q,w)=\ln \Phi _{d,q,w} \end{aligned}$$

lim

n
→
∞

1

v
(

G
n

)

ln

Z

G
n

(
q
,
w
)

=
ln

Φ

d
,
q
,
w

exists if $$q\ge 2$$

q
≥
2

and $$w\ge 0$$

w
≥
0

. The quantity $$\Phi _{d,q,w}$$

Φ

d
,
q
,
w

can be computed as follows. Let $$\begin{aligned} \Phi _{d,q,w}(t):= & {} \left( \sqrt{1+\frac{w}{q}}\cos (t)+\sqrt{\frac{(q-1)w}{q}}\sin (t)\right) ^{d}\\{} & {} +\,(q-1)\left( \sqrt{1+\frac{w}{q}}\cos (t) -\sqrt{\frac{w}{q(q-1)}}\sin (t)\right) ^{d}, \end{aligned}$$

Φ

d
,
q
,
w

(
t
)

:
=

1
+

w
q

cos

(
t
)

+

(
q
-
1
)
w

q

sin

(
t
)

d

+

(
q
-
1
)

1
+

w
q

cos

(
t
)

-

w

q
(
q
-
1
)

sin

(
t
)

d

,

then $$\begin{aligned} \Phi _{d,q,w}:=\max _{t\in [-\pi ,\pi ]}\Phi _{d,q,w}(t), \end{aligned}$$

Φ

d
,
q
,
w

:
=

max

t
∈
[
-
π
,
π
]

Φ

d
,
q
,
w

(
t
)

,

The same conclusion holds true for a sequence of random d-regular graphs with probability one. Our result extends the work of Dembo, Montanari, Sly and Sun for the Potts model (integer q), and we prove a conjecture of Helmuth, Jenssen and Perkins about the phase transition of the random cluster model with fixed q.
Scalp complications of craniofacial surgery: classification, prevention, and initial approach: an updated review
Authors: Pedroza Gómez Santiago , Gómez Ortega Viviana , Tovar-Spinoza Zulma , Ghotme Kemel A.
Published: November 2022

Background

Scalp complications in craniofacial surgeries can increase morbidity and mortality. Given the inelastic characteristics of the scalp, these surgeries can be challenging, and multiple complications can arise. The literature on craniofacial surgery is extensive. However, few articles address scalp complications, associated factors, and prevention. This study aims to identify and classify scalp complications in craniofacial surgery and describe associated risk factors, general preventive measures, and an initial therapeutic approach.

Methods

We conducted a literature search in PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and LILACS to review the scalp complications in craniofacial surgery. The studies selected included retrospective case series, narrative reviews, systematic reviews, and cadaveric anatomic studies. We completed the search with book chapters and specific topic reviews.

Results

We screened a total of 124 sources and selected 35 items for inclusion in this review. Based on the updated review, we categorized scalp complications into wound defects, soft tissue contour irregularities, neurovascular defects, and infection. We discuss the main characteristics, risk factors, preventive measures, and initial management of these complications.

Conclusions

For craniofacial surgery, understanding the surgical anatomy, identifying risk factors, adequate surgical planning, and interdisciplinary cooperation between neurosurgeons, plastic surgeons, and the interdisciplinary team are essential to prevent and treat scalp complications.

Level of evidence: Not ratable
PET molecular imaging for pathophysiological visualization in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Wang Jing , Jin Chentao , Zhou Jinyun , Zhou Rui , Tian Mei , Lee Hyeon Jeong , Zhang Hong
Published: November 2022

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common dementia worldwide. The exact etiology of AD is unclear as yet, and no effective treatments are currently available, making AD a tremendous burden posed on the whole society. As AD is a multifaceted and heterogeneous disease, and most biomarkers are dynamic in the course of AD, a range of biomarkers should be established to evaluate the severity and prognosis. Positron emission tomography (PET) offers a great opportunity to visualize AD from diverse perspectives by using radiolabeled agents involved in various pathophysiological processes; PET imaging technique helps to explore the pathomechanisms of AD comprehensively and find out the most appropriate biomarker in each AD phase, leading to a better evaluation of the disease. In this review, we discuss the application of PET in the course of AD and summarized radiolabeled compounds with favorable imaging characteristics.
Croatian high-resolution monthly gridded dataset of homogenised surface air temperature
Authors: Perčec Tadić Melita , Pasarić Zoran , Guijarro José A.
Published: November 2022

Homogenised climatological series and gridded data are the basis for climate monitoring and climate change detection. Considering this, monthly mean temperatures from 122 Croatian stations were homogenised, and high-resolution monthly gridded data were developed for the 1981–2018 period. Homogenisation needs to be performed on stations from the same climate region; therefore, hierarchical clustering is introduced to define those climate regions in Croatia. The breaks of homogeneity were detected by the standard normal homogeneity test on 54 stations. Regression kriging was applied to produce monthly grids for each month in the analysed period. The quality of the interpolation assessed by leave-one-out cross-validation resulted in a root mean square error of 0.7 °C. The quality of spatial interpolation is supplemented with normalised error maps. The derived homogenised station data and monthly grids are necessary for national climate monitoring, the production of climate normals and the estimation of trends. After 1999, average annual anomalies from the 30-year climate standard normal 1981–2010 were positive and up to 1.4 °C warmer than the average and only occasionally negative. The measured amount, sign and significance of the trend were accurately captured on the trend maps calculated from the monthly maps. Significant strong warming was observed and mapped over the entire Croatian territory in April, June, July, August and November. It was stronger inland than on the coast. Annual trends were significant and ranged from 0.3 °C/decade to 0.7 °C/decade. There was no observational evidence of enhanced elevation-dependent warming over elevations from 750 to 1594 m.
Explainable software systems: from requirements analysis to system evaluation
Authors: Chazette Larissa , Brunotte Wasja , Speith Timo
Published: November 2022

The growing complexity of software systems and the influence of software-supported decisions in our society sparked the need for software that is transparent, accountable, and trustworthy. Explainability has been identified as a means to achieve these qualities. It is recognized as an emerging non-functional requirement (NFR) that has a significant impact on system quality. Accordingly, software engineers need means to assist them in incorporating this NFR into systems. This requires an early analysis of the benefits and possible design issues that arise from interrelationships between different quality aspects. However, explainability is currently under-researched in the domain of requirements engineering, and there is a lack of artifacts that support the requirements engineering process and system design. In this work, we remedy this deficit by proposing four artifacts: a definition of explainability, a conceptual model, a knowledge catalogue, and a reference model for explainable systems. These artifacts should support software and requirements engineers in understanding the definition of explainability and how it interacts with other quality aspects. Besides that, they may be considered a starting point to provide practical value in the refinement of explainability from high-level requirements to concrete design choices, as well as on the identification of methods and metrics for the evaluation of the implemented requirements.
Cognitive load in immersive media settings: the role of spatial presence and cybersickness
Authors: Breves Priska , Stein Jan-Philipp
Published: November 2022

Faced with the ongoing diversification and commercial success of highly immersive media technologies (e.g., VR headsets), both content producers and scientific scholars have become highly invested in understanding the psychological consequences of experiencing media in these new and lifelike ways. While many studies underscore positive effects of high media immersivity—such as increased enjoyment or persuasive success—others warn about the intense cognitive load that technologies such as VR might put on their users. In a laboratory experiment withN = 121 participants, we compare the cognitive load experienced while watching a 360° video on a laptop screen or via an immersive VR head-mounted display. Furthermore, we scrutinize two prominent explanations for the additional cognitive load in immersive media settings, i.e., the role of spatial presence and cybersickness. As expected, the VR condition results in higher cognitive load, spatial presence, and cybersickness than the 2D condition. However, by means of a parallel mediation model, we observe that only cybersickness emerges as a meaningful mediator of participants’ strained cognitive capacity; spatial presence, on the other hand, remains statistically irrelevant in this regard. We discuss our findings considering implications for media producers and future research.