bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
An Improved Oscillation Result for a Class of Higher Order Non-canonical Delay Differential Equations
Authors: Moaaz Osama , Ramos Higinio 
Published: March 2023

AbstractIn this work, by obtaining a new condition that excludes a class of positive solutions of a type of higher order delay differential equations, we were able to construct an oscillation criterion that simplifies, improves and complements the previous results in the literature. The adopted approach extends those commonly used in the study of second-order equations. The simplification lies in obtaining an oscillation criterion with two conditions, unlike the previous results, which required at least three conditions. In addition, we illustrate the improvement with the new criterion, applying it to some examples and comparing the results obtained with previous results in the literature.
Campylobacter jejuni: targeting host cells, adhesion, invasion, and survival
Authors: Kemper Leon , Hensel Andreas 
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Campylobacter jejuni, causing strong enteritis, is an unusual bacterium with numerous peculiarities. Chemotactically controlled motility in viscous milieu allows targeted navigation to intestinal mucus and colonization. By phase variation, quorum sensing, extensive O-and N-glycosylation and use of the flagellum as type-3-secretion system C. jejuni adapts effectively to environmental conditions. C. jejuni utilizes proteases to open cell–cell junctions and subsequently transmigrates paracellularly. Fibronectin at the basolateral side of polarized epithelial cells serves as binding site for adhesins CadF and FlpA, leading to intracellular signaling, which again triggers membrane ruffling and reduced host cell migration by focal adhesion. Cell contacts of C. jejuni results in its secretion of invasion antigens, which induce membrane ruffling by paxillin-independent pathway. In addition to fibronectin-binding proteins, other adhesins with other target structures and lectins and their corresponding sugar structures are involved in host–pathogen interaction. Invasion into the intestinal epithelial cell depends on host cell structures. Fibronectin, clathrin, and dynein influence cytoskeletal restructuring, endocytosis, and vesicular transport, through different mechanisms. C. jejuni can persist over a 72-h period in the cell. Campylobacter-containing vacuoles, avoid fusion with lysosomes and enter the perinuclear space via dynein, inducing signaling pathways. Secretion of cytolethal distending toxin directs the cell into programmed cell death, including the pyroptotic release of proinflammatory substances from the destroyed cell compartments. The immune system reacts with an inflammatory cascade by participation of numerous immune cells. The development of autoantibodies, directed not only against lipooligosaccharides, but also against endogenous gangliosides, triggers autoimmune diseases. Lesions of the epithelium result in loss of electrolytes, water, and blood, leading to diarrhea, which flushes out mucus containing C. jejuni. Together with the response of the immune system, this limits infection time. Based on the structural interactions between host cell and bacterium, the numerous virulence mechanisms, signaling, and effects that characterize the infection process of C. jejuni, a wide variety of targets for attenuation of the pathogen can be characterized. The review summarizes strategies of C. jejuni for host–pathogen interaction and should stimulate innovative research towards improved definition of targets for future drug development.

Key points
• Bacterial adhesion of Campylobacter to host cells and invasion into host cells are strictly coordinated processes, which can serve as targets to prevent infection.
• Reaction and signalling of host cell depend on the cell type.
• Campylobacter virulence factors can be used as targets for development of antivirulence drug compounds.
Outcomes of Forest Landscape Restoration Shaped by Endogenous or Exogenous Actors and Institutions? A Systematic Review on Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Owusu Raphael , Kimengsi Jude Ndzifon , Giessen Lukas 
Published: March 2023

AbstractAlthough ambitious, forest landscape restoration (FLR) is still very high on global climate change mitigation and adaptation research and policy agendas. The scientific literature highlights the importance of institutions and actors’ collaboration for achieving the intended outcomes. Despite these diffuse indications, a comprehensive understanding of the role played by different types of actors and institutions in shaping FLR outcomes is missing. This hinders the definition of an actor-cum-institutions research agenda for FLR, especially in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Yet, in this region, different actors with diverse interests shape FLR practices. Likewise, formal and informal institutions are known to collide frequently. Hence, this paper addresses the lacunae by systematically reviewing FLR actors’ interests and power manifestations and the typologies of institutions linked to FLR outcomes in SSA. The review further defines future research agendas on actors and institutions in SSA. The following lessons can be drawn from the review of 75 peer-reviewed journal articles:First, while exogenous actors are interested more in the ecological benefits of FLR, endogenous actors are interested in economic ones.Second, exogenous actors mostly use (dis-)incentives and coercion to shape the behavior of endogenous actors in FLR.Finally, while the exogenous formal institutional typology produces positive and negative ecological, economic, political, and sociocultural FLR outcomes, the endogenous formal and informal institutions produce only positive outcomes. Future studies should identify actors’ compliance levels of the exogenous and endogenous formal and informal typologies of institutions. Future studies should also analyze the effectiveness of FLR-linked institutions towards ensuring successful FLR.
Gender representation at scientific congresses: focus on functional and female urology—a study from the EAU Young Academic Urologist Functional Urology Group
Authors: Hüsch Tanja , Osman Nadir I. , Herve François , Culha Mehmet G. , Vale Luís , Tienza Antonio , Tutolo Manuela , De Cillis Sabrina , Guillot-Tantay Cyrille , Phé Véronique ,   the EAU Young Academic Urologist Functional Group
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Purpose
Female representation at scientific conferences is crucial for encouraging women pursuing an academic career. Nevertheless, gender inequity at urological conferences is common place and women are often stereotyped choosing functional urology. However, there is no evidence whether female representation is higher in functional urology. This investigations aims to analyze gender representation at functional urology sessions.

Methods
National and international urological congresses between 2019 and 2021 with a focus on functional urology and female urology sessions were evaluated. Congresses were categorized as national or international. Session type, topic, gender of chairs and speakers of the identified sessions were recorded. In addition, affiliation and medical specialty were collected for chairs.

Results
A total of 29 congresses were evaluated. Out of a total of 2893 chairs and speakers, 1034 (35.7%) were women and 1839 (63.6%) were men. This represents an overall gender gap of 27.9% for functional urology sessions. No significant differences in gender representation between national and international congresses could be identified (p = 0.076). When considering gender distribution of chairs, the gap was more pronounced by 35.5%. Furthermore, men were more likely to be invited to be a speaker in plenary and podiums sessions.

Conclusions
Gender inequality is present in functional urology sessions. There is a need for greater efforts to achieve gender equality. An important step to remedy the situation is the inclusion of women in scientific program committees. Furthermore, support by the leadership of urological societies and academic departments is essential to herald a lasting change in gender inequality.
Time-resolved determination of velocity fields on the example of a simple water channel flow, using a real-time capable FPGA-based camera platform
Authors: Steinmetz Tino , Schaeper Martin , Kleinwächter André , Otto Jonas , Richter Andreas , Poosch Ralf , Damaschke Nils 
Published: March 2023

AbstractField Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) have become a widely available computational resource for real-time image processing and can be used in time-critical optical process measurements. In this study, we investigate the applicability of the spatial filtering technique for time-resolved velocity field determination, on the example of a simple water tunnel flow. For this, the spatial filtering technique was implemented for a custom FPGA platform and analyzed regarding the effect of spatial and temporal resolution on the accuracy of the results. It was possible to prove the algorithm as suitable for velocity field estimation and identify algorithm parameters, which allow for increasing the accuracy of the results.
Graphical abstract
Residual low-frequency hearing after early device activation in cochlear implantation
Authors: Bruschke Stefanie , Baumann Uwe , Stöver Timo 
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Purpose
The cochlear implant (CI) is a standard treatment for patients with severe to profound hearing loss. In recent years, early device activation of the sound processor after 2–3 days following surgery has been established. The aim of this study is to evaluate the residual hearing of CI patients with substantial preoperative low-frequency hearing after early device activation over a period of 12 months.

Methods
Results were compared between an early fitted group (EF) with device activation to less than 15 days after CI surgery and a control group (CG) with device activation after 3–6 weeks. In total, 57 patients were divided into EF group (n = 32), and CG (n = 25). Low-frequency residual hearing and speech recognition in quiet and in noise were compared over an observation period of 12 months.

Results
No significant difference (p > 0.05) in the residual low-frequency hearing PTAlow between EF and CG was found, neither preoperatively (EF 33.2 dB HL/CG 35.0 dB HL), nor postoperatively (EF 46.8 dB HL/CG 46.2 dB HL). In both groups, postoperative residual hearing decreased compared to preoperative and remained stable within the first year after CI surgery. Furthermore, both groups showed no significant differences (p > 0.05) in speech recognition in quiet and in noise within the first year.

Conclusion
Early device activation is feasible in CI patients with preoperative low-frequency residual hearing, without an additional effect on postoperative hearing preservation.
Good vibrations: tactile cueing for freezing of gait in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Klaver E. C. , van Vugt J. P. P. , Bloem B. R. , van Wezel R. J. A. , Nonnekes J. , Tjepkema-Cloostermans M. C. 
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Background
Cueing strategies can alleviate freezing of gait (FOG) in people with Parkinson’s disease (PD). We evaluated tactile cueing delivered via vibrating socks, which has the benefit of not being noticeable to bystanders.

Objective
To evaluate the effect of tactile cueing compared to auditory cueing on FOG.

Methods
Thirty-one persons with PD with FOG performed gait tasks during both ON and OFF state. The effect of open loop and closed loop tactile cueing, as delivered by vibrating socks, was compared to an active control group (auditory cueing) and to a baseline condition (uncued gait). These four conditions were balanced between subjects. Gait tasks were videotaped and annotated for FOG by two experienced raters. Motion data were collected to analyze spatiotemporal gait parameters. Responders were defined as manifesting a relative reduction of > 10% in the percent time frozen compared to uncued gait.

Results
The average percent time frozen during uncued gait was 11.2% in ON and 21.5% in OFF state. None of the three tested cueing modalities affected the percentage of time frozen in either the ON (p = 0.20) or OFF state (p = 0.12). The number of FOG episodes and spatiotemporal gait parameters were also not affected. We found that 22 out of 31 subjects responded to cueing, the response to the three types of cueing was highly individual.

Conclusions
Cueing did not improve FOG at the group level; however, tactile as well as auditory cueing improved FOG in many individuals. This highlights the need for a personalized approach when using cueing to treat FOG.
The efficacy and safety of corticosteroids in pediatric kidney scar prevention after urinary tract infection: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Gkiourtzis Nikolaos , Glava Agni , Moutafi Maria , Vasileiadou Theopisti , Delaporta Theodora , Michou Panagiota , Printza Nikoleta , Makedou Kali , Tramma Despoina 
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Background
Acute pyelonephritis (APN) in pediatric patients may lead to kidney scarring and is one of the main causes of permanent kidney damage. The incidence of kidney scarring after one febrile urinary tract infection (UTI) is reported to range from 2.8 to 15%, with the percentage rising to 28.6% after ≥ 3 febrile UTIs. Corticosteroids may have a role in the reduction of kidney scar formation and urine cytokine levels. The possible benefit of adjuvant corticosteroid administration in the reduction of kidney scar formation in children with APN has been recently examined in randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Objectives
The aim of this meta-analysis was to provide a summary of the current literature about the efficacy and safety of adjuvant corticosteroid administration in the reduction of kidney scar formation in children with APN.

Data sources
An extensive literature search through major databases (PubMed/MEDLINE and Scopus) was carried out for RCTs from inception until October 12, 2022, investigating the efficacy and safety of adjuvant corticosteroids in preventing kidney scarring in children with APN. A risk ratio with 95% CI was used for dichotomous outcomes.

Results
In total, 5 RCTs with 918 pediatric patients with APN were included in the study. Adjuvant corticosteroid treatment revealed a statistically significant reduction in kidney scarring (95% CI 0.42–0.95, p = 0.03), without increasing the risk of adverse events like bacteremia, prolonged hospitalization, or recurrence of UTI.

Limitations
There were limitations regarding sample size (n = 498 children), different classes of corticosteroids (methylprednisolone or dexamethasone), different routes of corticosteroid administration (intravenous or oral), and different day courses (3-day or 4-day course).

Conclusions
Adjuvant corticosteroid administration seems to have a beneficial effect on kidney scar reduction in children with APN. Future studies should focus on the evaluation of the efficacy and safety of corticosteroids in kidney scarring reduction after APN to strengthen the results of our study.

Graphical Abstract
„Digitale Einzelhandelsplattformen und städtische Akteur*innen – Kooperation als zukunftsfähiges Modell?“
Authors: Hardaker Sina , Appel Alexandra , Doll Paulina , Ströbel Kerstin 
Published: March 2023

ZusammenfassungVielerorts werden lokale Onlinemarktplätze ins Lebens gerufen, um innerstädtische Einzelhändler*innen vor dem Hintergrund des Strukturwandels, der coronabedingt verstärkt wurde, digital besser aufzustellen. Anhand eBay Deine Stadt, einer Initiative für lokale Onlinemarktplätze von eBay, die seit 2020 in Deutschland in bislang über 30 Städten und Regionen etabliert wurde, beleuchtet der Artikel die Strukturen und Akteur*innen, die an der Umsetzung der Initiative beteiligt sind. Auf Grundlage von Expert*inneninterviews mit einem von eBay für die Umsetzung beauftragten Beratungsunternehmen sowie kommunalen Akteur*innen werden erste Erfahrungen, Erwartungen und Kritikpunkte erhoben und diskutiert. Ziel ist es, eine anfängliche Evaluation des sich noch im Aufbau befindlichen lokalen Onlinemarktplatz-Programms eBay Deine Stadt durchzuführen. Dabei stehen insbesondere die Rolle eBays als Infrastrukturgeber und Kooperationspartner sowie die damit einhergehenden Prozesse, Probleme und Erwartungen im Vordergrund. Darauf basierend werden weiterführende Fragestellungen zu zukünftigen Dynamiken von Innenstädten identifiziert.
Predictive factors for respiratory failure and in-hospital mortality after surgery for spinal metastasis
Authors: Jaipanya Pilan , Lertudomphonwanit Thamrong , Chanplakorn Pongsthorn , Pichyangkul Picharn , Kraiwattanapong Chaiwat , Keorochana Gun , Leelapattana Pittavat 
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Purpose
Spinal metastasis surgeries carry substantial risk of complications. PRF is among complications that significantly increase mortality rate and length of hospital stay. The risk factor of PRF after spinal metastasis surgery has not been investigated. This study aims to identify the predictors of postoperative respiratory failure (PRF) and in-hospital death after spinal metastasis surgery.

Methods
We retrospectively reviewed consecutive patients with spinal metastasis surgically treated between 2008 and 2018. PRF was defined as mechanical ventilator dependence > 48 h postoperatively (MVD) or unplanned postoperative intubation (UPI). Collected data include demographics, laboratory data, radiographic and operative data, and postoperative complications. Stepwise logistic regression analysis was used to determine predictors independently associated with PRFs and in-hospital death.

Results
This study included 236 patients (average age 57 ± 14 years, 126 males). MVD and UPI occurred in 13 (5.5%) patients and 13 (5.5%) patients, respectively. During admission, 14 (5.9%) patients had died postoperatively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed significant predictors of MVD included intraoperative blood loss > 2000 mL (odds ratio [OR] 12.28, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.88–52.36), surgery involving cervical spine (OR 9.58, 95% CI 1.94–47.25), and ASA classification ≥ 4 (OR 6.59, 95% CI 1.85–23.42). The predictive factors of UPI included postoperative sepsis (OR 20.48, 95% CI 3.47–120.86), central nervous system (CNS) metastasis (OR 10.21, 95% CI 1.42–73.18), lung metastasis (OR 7.18, 95% CI 1.09–47.4), and postoperative pulmonary complications (OR 6.85, 95% CI 1.44–32.52). The predictive factors of in-hospital death included postoperative sepsis (OR 13.15, 95% CI 2.92–59.26), CNS metastasis (OR 10.55, 95% CI 1.54–72.05), and postoperative pulmonary complications (OR 9.87, 95% CI 2.35–41.45).

Conclusion
PRFs and in-hospital death are not uncommon after spinal metastasis surgery. Predictive factors for PRFs included preoperative comorbidities, intraoperative massive blood loss, and postoperative complications. Identification of risk factors may help guide therapeutic decision-making and patient counseling.
Estimated cumulative radiation exposure in patients treated for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
Authors: Cool J. , Streekstra G. J. , van Schuppen J. , Stadhouder A. , van den Noort J. C. , van Royen B. J. 
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Purpose
Adolescent idiopoathic scoliosis (AIS) is a progressive spinal deformity, most often observed in female patients of pubescent age. The deformity’s severity, its progression through time, its treatment and subsequent follow-up are assessed with routine radiological evaluation of the patient’s full spine. This study aimed to determine the cumulative radiation exposure in average patients with AIS treated by brace or surgery throughout their treatment.

Methods
The average number of imaging procedures and corresponding radiation doses were retrospectively obtained from the medical charts of AIS patients treated conservatively and/or surgically at our institution. The median radiation exposure of all imaging modalities was stated in effective dose (mSv). The estimated cumulative effective radiation dose of the each treatment group was determined by multiplication of the average number of imaging conducted, and the median effective radiation dose per imaging modality.

Results
In total, 73 AIS patients were included (28 brace, 45 surgically). Patients treated with a brace were subjected to an average of 9.03 full spine radiographs, resulting in an estimated effective cumulative dose of 0.505 mSv over a median treatment period of 3.23 years. Patients treated surgically received an average of 14.29 full spine radiographs over a median treatment period of 2.76 years. The estimated effective cumulative dose amounted from 0.951 to 1.841 mSv, depending on the surgical technique.

Conclusion
The cumulative effective radiation doses rendered to AIS patients as part of their treatment and follow-up were relatively low. However, every exposure to ionising radiation for medical imaging purposes should be minimised.
Hugo Bondy (1900–1985): an Austrian scientist of mass spectrometry in the twentieth century
Authors: Schober Michael , Irrgeher Johanna , Prohaska Thomas 
Published: March 2023

AbstractHugo Bondy (1900–1985), a fairly unknown Austrian scientist working in academia in the twentieth century made important contributions to the development of double-focusing sector field mass spectrometers. This article describes his life and scientific contributions in a fascinating biography meriting his achievements in the development and construction of new mass spectrometers. The article divides into three sections according to Bondy’s biography. In the first section, his education, career in academia, and research in mass spectrometry are displayed. The second section reconstructs his expulsion from the university, his persecution and resistance in the Nazi era, and his failed attempt to be reinstated at his position as a scientist. In the third and last section, Bondy’s career in the Austrian Federal Ministry of Education is depicted by focusing on his youth work, a controversy of his political affiliations, and his accomplishments and character in the civil service. Bondy’s life is taken as an example to uncover the process of exclusion in science with all its consequences. But also, the ethical aspects of science for education and the application of a scientific attitude to society are revealed by his actions.
Graphical abstract
Hydrogeochemical evolution of the shallow and deep basaltic aquifers in Tamborine Mountain, Queensland (Australia)
Authors: Catania Sabrina T. , Reading Lucy 
Published: March 2023

AbstractTamborine Mountain, Queensland (Australia), is a prime example of a basalt fractured-rock aquifer. Yet very little is known about the hydrochemistry of this groundwater system. Both analytical (major ions and stable isotopes) and multivariate (hierarchical cluster analysis, principal component analysis and factor analysis) analyses were used in this study to investigate the factors that interact within this aquifer system, in order to determine groundwater hydrogeochemistry. A new approach was applied to the data by classifying hydrographs by water type to clearly identify differing aquifer zones. Three distinct groundwater chemistry types were identified, and they were differentiated by variations in depth. Shallow bores were dominated by Na–Cl waters, deep bores were dominated by Na–HCO3 and Ca–HCO3 waters, and the two deepest bores were dominated by mixed water types. The evaluation of hydrogeochemical data has determined that both mineral weathering processes and groundwater/surface-water interaction had a strong influence on the hydrogeochemistry. Seasonal effects were minimal in the study area based on physicochemical parameters and ion chemistry. However, stable isotopic data show temporal trends. Increased rainfall events during the wet season produced a depletion in δ18O and increased d-excess values. The opposite is found during the dry season as a result of higher evaporation rates that are not hindered by intense rainfall events.