bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Racial and ethnic disparities in genetic testing for hearing loss: a systematic review and synthesis
Authors: Rouse Stephanie L. , Florentine Michelle M. , Taketa Emily , Chan Dylan K. 
Published: September 2021

AbstractRacial/ethnic disparities in the diagnostic efficacy of genetic testing for hearing loss have been described. These disparities may relate to differences in variant classification between different racial/ethnic groups, which may, in turn, derive from disparate representation of these groups in the published literature. We sought to quantify racial/ethnic disparities in the published literature on the human genetics of hearing loss. We conducted a search of PubMed for articles describing single-gene, multiple-gene, or whole-exome sequencing for individuals with sensorineural hearing loss. Data on the included subjects, including race/ethnicity and/or region of origin, a number of subjects tested, and method of testing, were extracted. 1355 populations representing 311,092 subjects from 1165 studies were included. Overall, subjects of European and Asian ancestry were equivalently represented, but those of Latino American, African, and indigenous North American ancestry were significantly underrepresented; over 96% of all subjects in the published literature were European or Asian. Within populations, the majority of subjects derived from a small subset of countries. The observed disparity was greater for multiple-gene and whole-exome sequencing than for single-gene sequencing. These findings illustrate the large disparity in the published literature on the genetics of hearing loss, and demonstrate the need for increased representation of Latino American, African, and indigenous North American populations.
About the Solution of the Numerical Instability for Topological Solitons with Long Range Interaction
Authors: Anmasser Fabian , Theuerkauf Dominik , Faber Manfried 
Published: September 2021

AbstractThe computations of solutions of the field equations in the Model of Topological Particles, formulated with a scalar SU(2)-field, have shown instabilities leading to discrepancies between the numerical and analytical solutions. We identify the origin of these deviations in misalignments of the rotational axes corresponding to the SU(2) elements. The system of a single soliton we use as an example to show that a constraint suppressing the wave-like disturbances is able to lead to excellent agreement between the result of the numerical minimisation procedure and the analytical solution.
Longstanding overt ventriculomegaly in adults (LOVA) with patent aqueduct: surgical outcome and etiopathogenesis of a possibly distinct form of chronic hydrocephalus
Authors: Palandri Giorgio , Carretta Alessandro , La Corte Emanuele , Mazzatenta Diego , Conti Alfredo 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Purpose
Longstanding overt ventriculomegaly in adults (LOVA) represents a form of chronic adulthood hydrocephalus with symptomatic manifestation in late adulthood. Based on the patency of the aqueduct, two different subcohorts of LOVA can be distinguished. Surgical treatments of this condition are also debated. Therefore, we analyzed preoperative characteristics and clinical outcome after different surgical treatments in a subgroup of LOVA patients with a patent aqueduct.

Methods
Eighteen LOVA patients with a patent aqueduct consecutively treated at our institution between July 2013 and December 2019 were analyzed for this study. Median age was 70 years. Preoperative radiological and clinical features, surgical procedures (ventriculo-peritoneal shunt or endoscopic third ventriculostomy), and outcomes were collected. Successful outcome was qualitatively defined as an improvement or a halt of progression of the presenting symptoms at follow-up, and quantitatively by changes in mRS and iNPHGS scales.

Results
Twelve patients underwent an ETV as a primary treatment, while 6 underwent VPS. A total of 22.2% of them were lost to follow-up. Median follow-up time was 38 months. Six patients (66.7%) in the ETV cohort achieved a successful outcome after treatment, with a complication rate of 11.1%. Two patients underwent rescue VPS after ETV failure with a good outcome. Four patients (100%) underwent primary VPS and achieved a satisfactory outcome after treatment, with a reported complications rate of 25%.

Conclusion
LOVA with patent aqueduct represents, in our opinion, a distinct clinical form of chronic hydrocephalus. For this subgroup, as well as for other forms of LOVA, ETV remains an acceptable first-line treatment option considering the good results, and the low complication rate, obtained in those patients and the hypothesis that hydrocephalus is due to an “intracisternal” obstruction.
Transversus abdominis release (TAR) for ventral hernia repair: open or robotic? Short-term outcomes from a systematic review with meta-analysis
Authors: Bracale U. , Corcione F. , Neola D. , Castiglioni S. , Cavallaro G. , Stabilini C. , Botteri E. , Sodo M. , Imperatore N. , Peltrini R. 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Purpose
To compare early postoperative outcomes after transversus abdominis release (TAR) for ventral hernia repair with open (oTAR) and robotic (rTAR) approach.

Methods
A systematic search of PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, SCOPUS and Web of Science databases was conducted to identify comparative studies until October 2020. A meta-analysis of postoperative short-term outcomes was performed including complications rate, operative time, length of stay, surgical site infection (SSI), surgical site occurrence (SSO), SSO requiring intervention (SSOPI), systemic complications, readmission, and reoperation rates as measure outcomes.

Results
Six retrospective studies were included in the analysis with a total of 831 patients who underwent rTAR (n = 237) and oTAR (n = 594). Robotic TAR was associated with lower risk of complications rate (9.3 vs 20.7%, OR 0.358, 95% CI 0.218–0.589, p < 0.001), lower risk of developing SSO (5.3 vs 11.5%, OR 0.669, 95% CI 0.307–1.458, p = 0.02), lower risk of developing systemic complications (6.3 vs 26.5%, OR 0.208, 95% CI 0.100–0.433, p < 0.001), shorter hospital stay (SMD − 4.409, 95% CI − 6.000 to − 2.818, p < 0.001) but longer operative time (SMD 53.115, 95% CI 30.236–75.993, p < 0.01) compared with oTAR. There was no statistically significant difference in terms of SSI, SSOPI, readmission, and reoperation rates.

Conclusion
Robotic TAR improves recovery by adding the benefits of minimally invasive procedures when compared to open surgery. Although postoperative complications appear to decrease with a robotic approach, further studies are needed to support the real long-term and cost-effective advantages.
Tropical Bisectors and Voronoi Diagrams
Authors: Criado Francisco , Joswig Michael , Santos Francisco 
Published: September 2021

AbstractIn this paper we initiate the study of tropical Voronoi diagrams. We start out with investigating bisectors of finitely many points with respect to arbitrary polyhedral norms. For this more general scenario we show that bisectors of three points are homeomorphic to a non-empty open subset of Euclidean space, provided that certain degenerate cases are excluded. Specializing our results to tropical bisectors then yields structural results and algorithms for tropical Voronoi diagrams.
Fast myocardial T1ρ mapping in mice using k-space weighted image contrast and a Bloch simulation-optimized radial sampling pattern
Authors: Gram Maximilian , Gensler Daniel , Winter Patrick , Seethaler Michael , Arias-Loza Paula Anahi , Oberberger Johannes , Jakob Peter Michael , Nordbeck Peter 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Purpose
T1ρ dispersion quantification can potentially be used as a cardiac magnetic resonance index for sensitive detection of myocardial fibrosis without the need of contrast agents. However, dispersion quantification is still a major challenge, because T1ρ mapping for different spin lock amplitudes is a very time consuming process. This study aims to develop a fast and accurate T1ρ mapping sequence, which paves the way to cardiac T1ρ dispersion quantification within the limited measurement time of an in vivo study in small animals.

Methods
A radial spin lock sequence was developed using a Bloch simulation-optimized sampling pattern and a view-sharing method for image reconstruction. For validation, phantom measurements with a conventional sampling pattern and a gold standard sequence were compared to examine T1ρ quantification accuracy. The in vivo validation of T1ρ mapping was performed in N = 10 mice and in a reproduction study in a single animal, in which ten maps were acquired in direct succession. Finally, the feasibility of myocardial dispersion quantification was tested in one animal.

Results
The Bloch simulation-based sampling shows considerably higher image quality as well as improved T1ρ quantification accuracy (+ 56%) and precision (+ 49%) compared to conventional sampling. Compared to the gold standard sequence, a mean deviation of − 0.46 ± 1.84% was observed. The in vivo measurements proved high reproducibility of myocardial T1ρ mapping. The mean T1ρ in the left ventricle was 39.5 ± 1.2 ms for different animals and the maximum deviation was 2.1% in the successive measurements. The myocardial T1ρ dispersion slope, which was measured for the first time in one animal, could be determined to be 4.76 ± 0.23 ms/kHz.

Conclusion
This new and fast T1ρ quantification technique enables high-resolution myocardial T1ρ mapping and even dispersion quantification within the limited time of an in vivo study and could, therefore, be a reliable tool for improved tissue characterization.
Becoming Large, Becoming Infinite: The Anatomy of Thermal Physics and Phase Transitions in Finite Systems
Authors: Lavis David A. , Kühn Reimer , Frigg Roman 
Published: September 2021

AbstractThis paper presents an in-depth analysis of the anatomy of both thermodynamics and statistical mechanics, together with the relationships between their constituent parts. Based on this analysis, using the renormalization group and finite-size scaling, we give a definition of a large but finite system and argue that phase transitions are represented correctly, as incipient singularities in such systems. We describe the role of the thermodynamic limit. And we explore the implications of this picture of critical phenomena for the questions of reduction and emergence.
Is the brain an organ for free energy minimisation?
Authors: Williams Daniel 
Published: September 2021

AbstractTwo striking claims are advanced on behalf of the free energy principle (FEP) in cognitive science and philosophy: (i) that it identifies a condition of the possibility of existence for self-organising systems; and (ii) that it has important implications for our understanding of how the brain works, defining a set of process theories—roughly, theories of the structure and functions of neural mechanisms—consistent with the free energy minimising imperative that it derives as a necessary feature of all self-organising systems. I argue that the conjunction of claims (i) and (ii) rests on a fallacy of equivocation. The FEP can be interpreted in two ways: as a claim about how it is possible to redescribe the existence of self-organising systems (the Descriptive FEP), and as a claim about how such systems maintain their existence (the Explanatory FEP). Although the Descriptive FEP plausibly does identify a condition of the possibility of existence for self-organising systems, it has no important implications for our understanding of how the brain works. Although the Explanatory FEP would have such implications if it were true, it does not identify a condition of the possibility of existence for self-organising systems. I consider various ways of responding to this conclusion, and I explore its implications for the role and importance of the FEP in cognitive science and philosophy.
Life cycle assessment and circularity indicators
Authors: Rigamonti Lucia , Mancini Eliana 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Purpose
In a context where the transition to a circular economy is increasingly required, it is necessary to clarify the relationship between sustainability and circularity. In this commentary we summarise what are circularity indicators and what is LCA (Life Cycle Assessment), and we discuss their potential role in improving circular decision making.

Methods
Based on literature, a focus on how circularity indicators and LCA could be used in circular decision making is presented. Moreover, an analysis of recent studies has been carried out to identify the relationship between LCA and circularity indicators.

Results and discussion
We can state that no authors have concluded that circularity indicators can be used alone to choose the best option in circular economy projects. This is because the circularity indicators only provide a partial view on the environmental performance of a system. At the same time, it appears that the circularity indicators are easier to communicate, and a high degree of circularity could help to build good relationships with customers and increase reputation among stakeholders, as well as to have an easier access to funding.

Conclusions and recommendations
At the end, we propose a procedure to include both the LCA and the circularity measurement in the assessment of circular economy strategies. While still at an early stage of conceptualisation, it gives an idea on how to integrate environmental sustainability aspects into circular economy initiatives.
Autoimmune Hepatitis: Serum Autoantibodies in Clinical Practice
Authors: Terziroli Beretta-Piccoli Benedetta , Mieli-Vergani Giorgina , Vergani Diego 
Published: September 2021

AbstractCirculating autoantibodies are a key diagnostic tool in autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), being positive in 95% of the cases if tested according to dedicated guidelines issued by the International Autoimmune Hepatitis Group. They also allow the distinction between type 1 AIH, characterized by positive anti-nuclear and/or anti-smooth muscle antibody, and type 2 AIH, characterized by positive anti-liver kidney microsomal type 1 and/or anti-liver cytosol type 1 antibody. Anti-soluble liver antigen is the only AIH-specific autoantibody, and is found in 20–30% of both type 1 and type 2 AIH. Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody is frequently positive in type 1 AIH, being associated also with inflammatory bowel disease and with primary/autoimmune sclerosing cholangitis. The reference method for autoantibody testing remains indirect immunofluorescence on triple tissue (rodent liver, kidney and stomach), allowing both the detection of the majority of liver-relevant reactivities, including those autoantibodies whose molecular target antigens are unknown. Of note, the current knowledge of the clinical significance of autoantibodies relies on studies based on this technique. However, immunofluorescence requires trained laboratory personnel, is observer-dependent, and lacks standardization, leading to ongoing attempts at replacing this method with automated assays, the sensitivity, and specificity of which, however, require further studies before they can be used as a reliable alternative to immunofluorescence; currently, they may be used as complementary to immunofluorescence.
The 23rd April ’21 Snow Avalanche, Girthi Ganga post the 7th February ’21 Rishi Ganga Flash Flood: Are these Events Linked to Climate Warming in the Western Himalaya?
Authors: Sharma Shubhra , Sati Sarswati Prakash , Sundriyal Y. P. , Dobhal Harsh 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
The upper catchment of Dhauli Ganga valley (Chamoli district) in Uttarakhand Himalaya recently witnessed a large snow avalanche on the night of 23rd April 2021 along the Indo-Tibet border. This event followed the 7th February 2021 Rishi Ganga (debris flow induced) flash flood within less than three months. This note analyses the plausible causes of the avalanche using pre-disaster field survey data, supported by the limited geological and remote sensing based geomorphological investigations as the site could not be investigated due to remoteness of the location and travel restrictions due to COVID pandemic. The present observations suggest that active and relict cirques to the north of the South Tibetan Detachment System (STDS) are the sites for potential snow and debris avalanches under the projected warming trends in the western Himalaya. Particularly, the study calls for climate change adaptation measures in the climate sensitive Trans Himalayan region and optimize anthropogenic activities in order to safeguard the lives and vital infrastructure.
Mineralogical Studies of Mahanadi Basin coals based on FTIR, XRD and Microscopy: A Geological Perspective
Authors: Naik A. S. , Behera B. , Shukla U. K. , Sahu H. B. , Singh P. K. , Mohanty D. , Sahoo K. , Chatterjee D. 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
This paper is an attempt to investigate the mineral matter constituents in Permian coals of Mahanadi basin, India. Twenty two bulk samples from the working mines have been selected for the study. Analytical techniques such as X-Ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy coupled with coal microscopy have been used in this study for rapid characterization. The chief mineral phases are quartz, kaolinite, orthoclase, muscovite, and chlorite in order of increasing abundance in all the samples. Petrographic analysis reveal the dominance of Vitrinite (36.17%) followed by the Inertinite (32.33%), Liptinite (14.30%) group of macerals and mineral matter (17.18%). Mineral matter in the voids and cell lumens is common mode of occurrence in the coals which can be attributed to syngenetic and epigenetic types. The proximate analysis suggest the coals have high ash yield (8.37% to 38.46% on air dried basis) with high volatile matter (10.8% to 35.51% on air dried basis) making it suitable for thermal power plants.
Role of Climate and Topography on Hydrological Characteristics of the Bharathapuzha Basin in the Tectonically Quiescent Western Ghats, India
Authors: Reddy S. Kiran Kumar , Kotluri Sravan Kumar , Gupta Harish , Reddy D. Venkat 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Intra-basin variations in sediment supply provide clues for understanding the erosion process and the role of local topographic features and climatic factors. Hence in this study, Bharathapuzha (BP) basin from tectonically quiescent Western Ghats (WG) was selected to examine the role of topography and climate on the sediment erosion process across its sub-basins. Multi-years daily water discharge and sediment load data of five monitoring stations were combined with morphometric parameters to visualize the local variability in sediment erosion rates. The average annual water discharge and sediment load of the BP basin to the Arabian Sea are 4.71 km3 and 0.37x106 tons. Interestingly, Kunthipuzha (KP) sub-basin, despite covering 17% of the total basin area, contributes around 41% and 27% of water discharge and sediment flux, respectively. The sediment yield (erosion rate) from the KP sub-basin is ten times higher than the same sized sub-basin within the BP catchment. For comprehending the role of topography and climate on these local variations, geomorphic indices such as Hypsometric integral (HI) and stream length (SL) index were calculated for the BP basin and sub-basins. Further, multiple regression was used to explore the quantitative relationships among the influencing factors. Results suggest that the rainfall and topography critically influenced basin erosion and explained 93% of the total variance. This study demonstrates the importance of intra-basin scale processes even for small mountainous rivers and signifies the role of local variations in topography and climate in erosion and material transport.
Experimental study on the mechanism and development effect of multi-gas assisted steam huff and puff process in the offshore heavy oil reservoirs
Authors: Fan Jie , He Zuqing , Pang Wei , Fu Daoming , Peng Hanxiu , Liu Huanle 
Published: September 2021

AbstractMulti-gas assisted steam huff and puff process is a relatively new thermal recovery technology for offshore heavy oil reservoirs. Some blocks of Bohai oilfield have implemented multi-gas assisted steam huff and puff process. However, the development mechanism still requires further study. In this paper, high-temperature high-pressure (HTHP) PVT experiments and different huff and puff experiments of sand pack were carried out to reveal the enhanced production mechanism and evaluate the development effect of multi-gas assisted steam huff and puff process. The results indicated that viscosity reduction and thermal expansion still were the main development mechanism of multi-gas assisted steam huff and puff process. Specifically, CO2 easily dissolved in the heavy oil that made it mainly play the role of reducing oil viscosity, N2 was characteristics of small solubility and good expansibility, and it could improve formation pressure, increase steam sweep volume and even reduce the heat loss. Meanwhile, injecting multi-gas and steam could break the balance of heavy oil component that made the content of resin reduce and the content of saturates, aromatics and asphaltene increase so as to further reduce the viscosity of heavy oil. Compared with steam huff and puff process, multi-gas assisted steam huff and puff process increased the recovery by 2–5%. The optimal water–gas ratio and steam injection temperature were 4:6 and 300℃, respectively. The results suggested that multi-gas assisted steam huff and puff process would have wide application prospect for offshore heavy oil reservoirs.