bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The characteristic curvature (Cc) definition and its use in assessing Cc for single ionic surfactants
Authors: Leng Zhuotao , Acosta Edgar
Published: December 2022

The hydrophilic–lipophilic‐difference (HLD) is a set of empirical equations that correlate the formulation conditions at phase inversion (HLD = 0). Based on partition studies for nonionic surfactants, the HLD can be interpreted as a normalized chemical potential difference between the surfactant dissolved in water and oil. The net‐average curvature (NAC) model extrapolates this interpretation into a curvature form that has been used to fit and predict the phase behavior of surfactant‐oil–water (SOW) systems. The curvature interpretation led to renaming the HLD surfactant parameter, sigma (σ), as the characteristic curvature (Cc). This work tests the validity of the curvature interpretation of the HLD, and the Cc concept, for single ionic surfactants and the use of this concept as a method to assess the Cc without the use of reference surfactants or alcohols. To this end, the net curvature of six anionic and two cationic surfactants was evaluated from solubilization data at the characteristic condition of 25°C, no added cosolvent, in the presence of an oil mixture with equivalent alkane carbon number (EACN) of zero, and as a function of salinity. These studies showed that the original HLD equation for ionic surfactant could not be interpreted as chemical potential or curvature because a salinity prefactor (coefficient) “bi” was missing. The revised equation, HLDbi = bi∙ln(S)‐kbi∙EACN+Ccbi ‐aTbi∙(T‐25°C), could now be interpreted as a curvature expression, and it was demonstrated that Cc could be obtained from curvature using the expression Cc = Ccbi/bi. This single surfactant method produces uncertainties that, for most surfactants, ranged from 0.2 to 1 Cc units, similar to the uncertainty obtained with the conventional method of Cc determination using mixtures of test and reference surfactants.
Nonfungible tokens (NFTs) in dermatology and health care: A guide for health care professionals
Authors: Sitaru Sebastian , Kaczmarczyk Robert , Zink Alexander
Published: December 2022

A nonfungible token (NFT) represents an arbitrary piece of information, which can be created and exchanged on a blockchain, a type of public ledger secured by cryptographic algorithms. NFTs offer the possibility of leveraging blockchain technology‐related benefits, including verifiability, transparent execution, high availability and tamper‐resistance, for any tokenizable piece of information such as for example, clinical images in dermatology. In this narrative review, we explore current and potential future applications, as well as limitations of NFTs in health care. While health care applications for blockchains have been explored and implemented, NFTs have not yet been extensively studied in medical literature. Beyond the currently envisaged use in blood product tracking, consent management and an extension to electronic health records, the medical field and especially dermatology could benefit in other domains from this technology, including for clinical image safety, charge‐sensitive drug tracking and managing processes like referrals, lab orders, patient consent, legal claims such as malpractice, and improved availability and reliability of scientific data. The technology is limited by the sensitive nature of patient data, potentially counteracting the verifiability benefit, as well as accessibility for patients, and the technical skills required to create and maintain the infrastructure.
Post‐fire soil extracellular enzyme activities in subtropical–warm temperate climate transitional forests
Authors: Hu Mengjun , Wang Jiali , Lu Longlong , Shao Pengshuai , Zhou Zhenxing , Wang Dong , Han Shijie , Osborne Brooke , Chen Ji
Published: December 2022

Wildfire impacts on soil microbial community structure and functional activity have attracted a growing attention because of the higher sensitivity of soil microbes to wildfire. Soil extracellular enzymes play pivotal roles in biogeochemical processes, such as mediating carbon (C) and nutrient cycling. However, little is known about how post‐fire changes in soil biogeochemical properties and microbial community composition affect soil extracellular enzyme activities. This study explored the responses and regulating factors of C‐, nitrogen‐(N), and phosphorus‐(P) acquiring extracellular enzyme activities across a wildfire chronosequence (i.e., 1, 6, 13, and 50 years after fire) in subtropical–temperate ecotonal forests in Central China. The activities of C‐(β‐glucosidase), N‐(N‐acetylglucosaminidase), and P‐(acid phosphatase) acquiring enzymes declined with time post‐fire, with the highest values one‐year post‐fire. The response of C‐acquiring enzyme activity to fire was positively correlated with bacterial biomass, suggesting that microbial compositions were related to post‐fire changes in extracellular enzyme decomposition. The response of N‐acquiring enzyme activity to fire was positively correlated with soil P availability, while P‐acquiring enzyme activity was positively correlated with soil N availability. Overall, soil extracellular enzyme activity declined with time post‐fire, suggesting wildfire may reduce microbial demand for nutrients over time. Future research is needed to elucidate fire impacts on microbial processes for nutrient‐microbial‐enzyme linkages.
The newest Arctic islands and straits: Origin and distribution, 1997–2021
Authors: Ziaja Wieslaw , Haska Wojciech
Published: December 2022

The appearance of new Arctic islands and straits as the result of landscape transformation due to tidewater glacier recession under climate warming continues. Analysis of available maps and satellite images has served herein as the main research method. Six new islands, each covering an area of 0.4–248 km2, appeared in the years 2018–2021, and are described in this paper. Three other new islands, ranging in area from 0.4 to 3.2 km2, appeared along the Greenland coast in 1997, 2001, and 2013, and are described here, and they have not yet been described elsewhere. Seven of the nine aforementioned new islands appeared in Greenland and the European Arctic, where all earlier 35 new islands and straits had appeared due to ice melting. However, two of these appeared in the Severnaya Zemlya area in 2018, becoming the first new islands in the Asiatic (Siberian) Arctic. Additional new islands are now at an advanced stage of formation, and several will appear in the 2020s in the case of a stabilization of the current climate or further warming.
Prevalence and clinical implications of germline mutations among Jordanian patients with ovarian cancer. The Jordanian exploratory cancer genetics (Jo‐ECAG) ovarian study
Authors: Abdel‐Razeq Hikmat , Al‐Azzam Khansa , Elemian Shatha , Abu‐Fares Hala , Abu Sheikha Areej , Bani Hani Hira , Bater Rayan , Sharaf Baha’ , Heald Brandie , Esplin Edward D. , Nielsen Sarah M. , Alkyam Mais , Abujamous Lama , Al‐Attary Areej
Published: December 2022

Background

Ovarian cancer is one of the most common gynecological malignancies. Due to the absence of effective screening methods, ovarian cancer is usually diagnosed at late stages. Patients with pathogenic and likely‐pathogenic germline variants (PGVs) in BRCA1 or BRCA2 harbor elevated risk of developing both ovarian and breast cancers. Identifying PGVs may help in both cancer prevention and active disease treatment. Worldwide prevalence of PGVs varies and the matter is poorly addressed among Arab patients.

Methods

Patients with epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube or primary peritoneal cancers were offered the universal 20 or 84‐multi‐gene panel testing as per standard guidelines. Cascade family screening was also offered to all first and second‐degree relatives of PGV positive patients. Genetic testing was done at a referral lab using a next generation sequencing (NGS)‐based platform.

Results

During the study period, 152 patients, median age (range): 50 (18–79) years old, were tested. The majority (n = 100, 65.8%) had high‐grade serous carcinoma, and 106 patients (69.7%) had metastatic disease at presentation. In total, 38 (25.0%) had PGVs, while 47 (30.9%) others had variants of uncertain significance (VUS). PGVs were mostly in BRCA1 (n = 21, 13.8%) and in BRCA2 (n = 12, 7.9%), while 6 (3.9%) others had PGVs in non‐BRCA1/2 genes. PGV rates were significantly higher among 15 patients with a positive family history of ovarian cancer (60.0%, p = .022) and among 52 patients with a positive family history of breast cancer (40.4%, p = .017).

Conclusions

PGVs are common among Jordanian women with ovarian cancer, and mostly occur in BRCA1/2. Given its clinical impact on disease prevention and precision therapy, universal testing should be routinely offered.
Effects of ion sizes on Poisson–Nernst–Planck systems with multiple ions
Authors: Lin Guojian
Published: December 2022

In this work, we analyze a one‐dimensional version of steady‐state Poisson–Nernst–Planck models for ionic flow through a membrane channel including ionic interactions modeled by the density functional theory. The model includes an arbitrary number of positively changed ions with the same valences and one negatively charged ion and ignores the permanent charge. The model can be viewed as a singularly perturbed differential system; therefore, our analysis is mainly based on the geometric singular perturbation theory. The existence and the uniqueness result for small ion sizes are established, and treating the sizes as small parameters, we also derive an approximation of the individual flux, the – (current–voltage) relation and the individual flux difference. Critical potentials are identified, and their roles in characterizing ionic flow properties are studied.
A new mathematical method to describe the logic of the natural physical world
Authors: Ding Xiaotong , Ding Guanghong
Published: December 2022

To model an objective real world with absolute accurate mathematics is the symbol of modern science. However, in real life, the physical parameters could not be measured in infinite high accuracy, which makes the mathematical equations ineffective in the circumstance of turbulence and chaos. As the macro‐ and micro‐physical world could not be unified, it is believed that the laws of macro‐ and micro‐physical world are not the same. This paper proposes a new way of illustrating physical parameters, using the combination of mean ± error instead of a single numeric parameter for illustration, and establishes the corresponding algorithm and equations for means and errors, respectively. The results show that the error part of the Navier–Stokes equations in macro‐physical fluid mechanical world is just Schrodinger equation of micro‐physical quantum mechanical world. Therefore, a new method of researching complex system is proposed, and this method establishes the relationship between macro‐Newtown mechanics and micro‐quantum mechanics, so that in the macro world, the mean will follow the Navier–Stokes equations, and the error will follow the Schrodinger equations.
Improved accuracy and convergence of homotopy‐based solutions for aggregation–fragmentation models
Authors: Kushwah Prakrati , Saha Jitraj
Published: December 2022

We discuss the formulation of a numerical scheme based on the homotopy method to solve different aggregation–fragmentation models including the simultaneous event. Several test cases are considered and analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively to ascertain the improved accuracy and efficiency of the proposed model over the existing semi‐analytical models. The generalized solution of the truncated problem is obtained for some test cases, which in the limiting sense tends to the exact solution. A detailed convergence analysis of the scheme is also studied.
Aspects of xenobiotics and their receptors in stroke
Authors: Datta Aishika , Ghosh Bijoyani , Sarmah Deepaneeta , Chaudhary Antra , Borah Anupom , Bhattacharya Pallab
Published: December 2022

Stroke is devastating and the second leading cause of disability and death worldwide. The pathophysiology of stroke is intricate involving oxidative stress, ionic imbalance, and excitotoxicity leading to cell death. The current therapeutic strategies for ischemic stroke primarily aim to restore cerebral blood flow by removing clots using intravenous thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy. However, hemorrhagic stroke requires different therapeutic interventions, where intravenous thrombolysis worsens the persistent condition. Nevertheless, the present treatment strategies do not provide effective neuroprotection as they have limitations such as narrow time window, specialized clinics and personnel, and higher expense. Therefore, studies on novel therapeutic strategies that can render neuroprotection over an extended time with minimum adverse effects are solicited. Xenobiotics are agents that are foreign to the biological system but can regulate their metabolism by binding to different xenobiotic receptors (XRs) to produce toxic substances. Modulation of XRs in different preclinical studies have shown benefits in the stroke outcome. Therefore, targeting XRs may be a future therapeutic strategy for stroke intervention. The present review briefly discusses various implications of xenobiotics and their receptors to evolve as a potential therapeutic target for prospective use as an adjunctive therapy for stroke.
Evaluate your credentials to assess whether skills are useful in the workplace, valuable to students
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: December 2022

CHICAGO — Can students actually demonstrate the skills they learn from your programs in a way that will better their life outcomes? And do employers understand the competencies students gain when they graduate from your institution? It's a question on the minds of many who work in higher education, and it has an impact for your institution in terms of showing students the value of their degree. And the landscape of college credentials is growing, leading to further confusion as each institution often has its own language for discussing similar skills or competencies.
Review on the Dewetting of the Particle‐Matrix Interface in Composite Solid Propellants
Authors: Zou Zi‐Jie , Qiang Hong‐Fu , Li Yi‐Yi , Wang Xue‐Ren
Published: December 2022

Dewetting is the main damage mode of composite solid propellants, and the research on the initiation mechanism and evolution process of dewetting damage is an important way to predict the mechanical properties and evaluate the life of propellants. In this paper, the experimental research and analytical methods of dewettingare reviewed at domestic and foreign from three dimensions: macro, meso and micro. On this basis, the reference solutions to the existing research problems are proposed, and the key research directions of interface dewetting in the future are pointed out. The analysis shows that the dewetting behavior of composite solid propellant is affected by multiple factors such as internal factors (particles, matrix, bonding agent) and external factors (temperature and humidity, aging, strain rate, confining pressure). At present, the mechanism of dewetting is not clear, so it is urgent to conduct experimental analysis and numerical simulation research on the interface at the micro level to analyze the physical and chemical properties of the interface. On the meso scale, it is necessary to increase research in the dewetting theoretical model considering multi factor coupling, the mechanical property experiment of particle‐matrix interface, and the fine construction of meso scale simulation model. On the macro scale, the dynamic analysis method of propellant dewetting under multiple complex loading conditions will be the focus of future research.
The feasibility of a flexible exercise participation programme (FEPP) for individuals with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Smith Moira , Williams Gavin , Jordan Margaret , Willson Annie , Barker Ruth
Published: December 2022

Background and purpose

Individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) want health advice regarding participation in their choice of exercise. To address this need, a flexible exercise participation programme (FEPP) was developed, underpinned by the MS aerobic exercise guidelines and supported by a physiotherapist using behaviour change techniques. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of the FEPP for individuals with minimal disability from MS.

Methods

A feasibility study utilising a single group pre/post‐intervention design was conducted. The 12‐week FEPP was completed by 10 individuals with MS (EDSS 0–3.5). Exercise progression in duration, intensity or frequency of exercise (in line with MS exercise guidelines) was guided by a self‐perceived weekly energy level score, and weekly telephone coaching sessions using behavioural change techniques. Trial feasibility was assessed via measures of process (recruitment and retention), resources/management (communication time; data entry) and scientific feasibility (safety; compliance). Secondary FEPP feasibility outcomes included the Goal Attainment Scale (GAS) T‐score, exercise participation (weekly exercise diary), high‐level mobility (HiMAT), vitality (Subjective Vitality Scale), biomarkers for inflammation (cytokines levels [IL2, IL4, IL6, IL10, TNF and IFNγ]), and acceptability (participant survey).

Results

Process: In total, 11 (85%) of 13 eligible participants enroled at baseline with 10 (91%) completing the study. Resources/management: Coaching sessions included a baseline interview—mean 39 min (SD: 6.6) and telephone coaching—mean 10 min (SD: 3.8) per week. Outcome measure data collection time—mean 44 min (SD: 2.1). Scientific feasibility: Two participants experienced a fall during their exercise participation. Self‐reported compliance was high (99%). GAS T‐scores increased significantly, indicating achievement of exercise participation goals. Secondary outcomes showed trends towards improvement.

Discussion

The FEPP was feasible, safe and highly acceptable for use with individuals with MS and warrants a larger trial to explore effectiveness.
Variable or variate? A conundrum in pharmacometrics exposure–response models
Authors: Grisic Ana‐Marija , Venkatakrishnan Karthik , French Jonathan , Khandelwal Akash
Published: December 2022

Key elements of scientific writing—consistency and clarity—can be compromised in case of inaccurate use of methodological terms, especially in complex and multidisciplinary scientific fields. Such is the case in reports of pharmacometrics exposure–response analyses with the use of the terms univariate/multivariate and univariable/multivariable. This perspective outlines the issues in the use of these terms, clarifies their definitions, provides examples, and makes recommendations for authors, reviewers, and journals in the fields of clinical pharmacology and pharmacometrics.
Determination of needs the production of 5 L pet bottles and cost analysis
Authors: Timur Mustafa
Published: December 2022

Many parameters are used in bottle production in pet blow moulding machines. These parameters must be well optimized considering the machine‐related elements and theoretical values. In particular, the use of auxiliary elements at the correct values in the production of pet bottles affects the quality of produced bottles and the efficiency of bottle production. The right choice of equipment is important for the correct and precise planning of production. In this article, the equipment necessary for the production of 5 L pet bottles were identified, and the capacity calculations of this equipment were performed. Then, an up‐to‐date cost calculation was made, and appropriate conditions were created for production with the use of the right equipment in this field. This study was carried out in 2021 in Turkey at the Private Plastic Pet production plant, and cost analysis was performed successfully by determining the appropriate needs regarding the production.
How climate change and insecurity pushed 5 million people to hunger in Chad, Africa
Authors: Musa Shuaibu Saidu , Ela Tchindebe Bouri , Manirambona Emery , Shomuyiwa Deborah Oluwaseun , Haruna Usman Abubakar , Lucero‐Prisno Don Eliseo , Muhammad Abdulrahman
Published: December 2022

Climate change and insecurity pose challenges to food security around the globe. Chad has experienced several climate changes and insecurity influences on its food security, where, approximately 5 million people were pushed into hunger in the country. Desertification, flooding, and depletion of freshwater resources have pushed the country into hunger due to their negative effect on agro‐pastoral production in Chad. Insecurity due to the Boko‐Haram insurgency, in particular, has impaired agriculture, which is the mainstay of the country's economy. The influx of refugees from Nigeria and Cameroon has also compounded the hunger in Chad, as the country hosts the largest number of refugees in the region. Leveraging collaboration for climate change and improving security should be a priority for Chad. Increased consideration and action in the region can facilitate focus on climate change action in the region. International and multisectoral collaboration can set the pace for revamping the present security framework. Raising climate change awareness among key stakeholders and building capacity at the national level can help mitigate the impact of climate change on food security in Chad.
Prevent, address sexual misconduct by implementing key strategies
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: December 2022

Power dynamics play a significant role in sexual misconduct. And in the relationships that exist between a supervisor and an employee, or a faculty or staff member and a student, the employees and students are usually the vulnerable ones — and they expect their bosses, professors, or other authority figures to act in their best interests.
Preparation and Characterization of Chitosan Derivatives Bearing Imidazole Ring with Antioxidant, Antibacterial, and Antifungal Activities
Authors: Ma Bing , Tan Wenqiang , Zhang Jingjing , Mi Yingqi , Miao Qin , Guo Zhanyong
Published: December 2022

In this study, three series of chitosan derivatives bearing imidazole rings, including the Schiff‐bases of chitosan, N‐substituted chitosan, and quaternized chitosan are designed and synthesized. The structures of these chitosan derivatives are verified by FT‐IR and 1H NMR, and their antioxidant, antibacterial, and antifungal activities are tested. The Schiff‐bases of chitosan and N‐substituted chitosan have similar biological properties compared with chitosan. Derivatives 2IMTMC, 4IMTMC, MIMTMC, and BIMTMC exhibit significant antioxidant ability and antifungal activity, especially derivative BIMTMC. All the quaternized chitosan remarkably inhibits Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Vibrio harvey, especially derivative BIMTMC, whose minimum inhibitory concentration values are 0.03125, 0.0625, and 0.03125 mg mL−1, respectively. The results indicated that quaternized chitosan are synergistic with imidazole groups and have the better antioxidant, antifungal, and antibacterial properties than chitosan, which can be used as drug materials for antioxididant and antimicrobial purposes.
Clearing your plate for more purpose‐driven work
Authors: Freebairn‐Smith Laura
Published: December 2022

Recently I wrote about the management progression model, which shows the progression a person makes into management, moving from a high level of content focus to a primary focus on managing and leading.
A social network analysis of actors involved in wild pig (Sus scrofa) management in Missouri
Authors: Ellis Hailey E. , Grady Meredith J. , Jaebker Lauren M. , Bright Alan D. , Carlisle Keith M.
Published: December 2022

Wild pigs (Sus scrofa) cause significant damage to agriculture and native ecosystems and can transmit diseases to animals and people. Management responses designed to reduce population numbers are needed to mitigate these threats. Identifying networks of key actors, including the ways in which they interact, is valuable for purposes of better understanding opportunities or constraints that generate or impede effective management responses. The goal of our study was to understand the network of organizations, and the personnel working within them, that were active in wild pig management, research, or policy initiatives in Missouri during 2018–2020 by 1) identifying individuals and organizations involved in the network, 2) investigating the attributes of relevant personnel, 3) determining the structural patterns of the network, and 4) examining how the network structure could be optimized to improve communication and collaboration efforts. Results from a social network analysis identified 150 personnel affiliated with 26 organizations actively working on wild pig issues in Missouri. The network was largely homogenous based on respondents' attributes, had low density, and was relatively fragmented, small, decentralized with few ties per node, and separated with few brokers. We emphasize the importance of understanding the strengths and weaknesses of a network's structure in facilitating effective collective action to manage wild pigs.
Changes in attitudes to awareness of hypoglycaemia during a hypoglycaemia awareness restoration programme are associated with avoidance of further severe hypoglycaemia episodes within 24 months: the A2A in HypoCOMPaSS study
Authors: Sepúlveda Eduardo , Jacob Peter , Poínhos Rui , Carvalho Davide , Vicente Selene G. , Smith Emma L. , Shaw James A. M. , Speight Jane , Choudhary Pratik , de Zoysa Nicole , Amiel Stephanie A. ,   on behalf of the HypoCOMPaSS Study Group
Published: December 2022

Aims/hypothesis

The aims of this study were to assess cognitions relating to hypoglycaemia in adults with type 1 diabetes and impaired awareness of hypoglycaemia before and after the multimodal HypoCOMPaSS intervention, and to determine cognitive predictors of incomplete response (one or more severe hypoglycaemic episodes over 24 months).

Methods

This analysis included 91 adults with type 1 diabetes and impaired awareness of hypoglycaemia who completed the Attitudes to Awareness of Hypoglycaemia (A2A) questionnaire before, 24 weeks and 24 months after the intervention, which comprised a short psycho-educational programme with optimisation of insulin therapy and glucose monitoring.

Results

The age and diabetes duration of the participants were 48±12 and 29±12 years, respectively (mean±SD). At baseline, 91% reported one or more severe hypoglycaemic episodes over the preceding 12 months; this decreased to <20% at 24 weeks and after 24 months (p=0.001). The attitudinal barrier ‘hyperglycaemia avoidance prioritised’ (η2p=0.250, p=0.001) decreased from baseline to 24 weeks, and this decrease was maintained at 24 months (mean±SD=5.3±0.3 vs 4.3±0.3 vs 4.0±0.3). The decrease in ‘asymptomatic hypoglycaemia normalised’ from baseline (η2p=0.113, p=0.045) was significant at 24 weeks (1.5±0.3 vs 0.8±0.2). Predictors of incomplete hypoglycaemia response (one or more further episodes of severe hypoglycaemia) were higher baseline rates of severe hypoglycaemia, higher baseline scores for ‘asymptomatic hypoglycaemia normalised’, reduced change in ‘asymptomatic hypoglycaemia normalised’ scores at 24 weeks, and lower baseline ‘hypoglycaemia concern minimised’ scores (all p<0.05).

Conclusions/interpretation

Participation in the HypoCOMPaSS RCT was associated with improvements in hypoglycaemia-associated cognitions, with ‘hyperglycaemia avoidance prioritised’ most prevalent. Incomplete prevention of subsequent severe hypoglycaemia episodes was associated with persistence of the cognition ‘asymptomatic hypoglycaemia normalised’. Understanding and addressing cognitive barriers to hypoglycaemia avoidance is important in individuals prone to severe hypoglycaemia episodes.

Clinical trials registration

www.isrctn.org: ISRCTN52164803 and https://eudract.ema.europa.eu: EudraCT2009-015396-27.

Graphical abstract
Topical vancomycin powder does not affect patella cartilage degeneration in primary total knee arthroplasty and conversion rate for secondary patella resurfacing
Authors: Jacob Benjamin , Wassilew Georgi , von Eisenhart-Rothe Rüdiger , Brodt Steffen , Matziolis Georg
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Vancomycin powder (VP) is an antibiotic first introduced in pediatric spinal surgery to prevent surgical site infections (SSI). Recently its topical application was expanded to total hip and knee arthroplasty (THA, TKA) and anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Toxicity to cartilage is the subject of current research. The aim of this study was to prove the hypothesis that topical application of VP in TKA does not result in a degeneration of patella cartilage. We propagate that the conversion rate for secondary patella resurfacing is not influenced by its use.

Materials and methods

Between 2014 and 2021, 4292 joints were included in this monocentric retrospective cohort study. All patients underwent TKA without primary patella resurfacing. After a change of the procedure in the hospital, one group (VPG) was administered VP intraoperatively. The other group (nVPG) received no VP during surgery (nVPG). The remaining perioperative procedure was constant over the investigation period. Conversion rates for secondary patella resurfacing for both groups were determined without making distinctions in the indication. A second cohort was composed of patients presenting for follow-up examination 12 months after TKA and included 210 joints. Retrospective radiographic evaluations were performed preoperatively, before discharge and at follow-up examination. Patella axial radiographs were analyzed for patella tracking (lateral patellar tilt, patellar displacement) and patella degeneration (Sperner classification, patellofemoral joint space).

Results

There was no significant difference in the conversion rate for secondary patella resurfacing (4.24% VPG, 4.97% nVPG). Patella tracking and patella degeneration did not differ significantly between both groups.

Conclusions

The topical application of VP does not influence the conversion rate for secondary patella resurfacing. Moreover, it does not result in a degeneration of patella cartilage in TK.

Level of evidence

Retrospective case series, Level III.
Attentional adjustment in priming tasks: control strategies depend on context
Authors: Tomat Miriam , Wendt Mike , Jacobsen Thomas
Published: December 2022

Goal-directed behavior is assumed to require processes of attentional biasing to counter unwanted action tendencies elicited by distracting stimulus information. This is particularly so if stimulus categories that define the target and the distractor frequently reverse, requiring participants to respond to previously ignored stimulus categories and vice versa. In the current study, we investigated control strategies under such conditions. Specifically, we assessed trial-to-trial modulation of distractor-interference (i.e., congruency sequence effect, CSE) in a temporal flanker task associated with repetition versus alternation of the assignment of stimulus category (i.e., digits, letters) to targets and distractors (i.e., the character presented second or first, respectively) under conditions of a long SOA of 1000 ms (Experiment 1A) and 1200 ms (Experiment 1B). Whereas previous research, using a shorter SOA, suggested temporal-order control (i.e., the occurrence of a CSE in both repetition and—albeit less pronounced—alternation trials), lengthening the distractor-target SOA resulted in a CSE confined to repetition trials, suggesting strong or exclusive reliance on stimulus categories for attentional control (Experiment 1A and B). Adding a redundant stimulus feature (i.e., color), discriminating targets and distractors, eliminated the difference of CSE patterns in repetition and alternation trials (Experiment 2). Together, our results suggest that the strength of concurrently applied control strategies or the choice of a particular control strategy depend on contextual factors.
Molecular Network Analysis Discloses the Limited Contribution to HIV Transmission for Patients with Late HIV Diagnosis in Northeast China
Authors: Zhao Bin , Song Wei , Kang Mingming , Dong Xue , Li Xin , Wang Lu , Liu Jianmin , Tian Wen , Ding Haibo , Chu Zhenxing , Wang Lin , Qiu Yu , Han Xiaoxu , Shang Hong
Published: December 2022

In the “treat all” era, the high rate of late HIV diagnosis (LHD) worldwide remains an impediment to ending the HIV epidemic. In this study, we analyzed LHD in newly diagnosed people living with HIV (PLWH) and its impact on HIV transmission in Northeast China. Sociodemographic information, baseline clinical data, and plasma samples obtained from all newly diagnosed PLWH in Shenyang, the largest city in Northeast China, between 2016 and 2019 were evaluated. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify risk factors associated with LHD. A molecular network based on the HIV pol gene was constructed to assess the risk of HIV transmission with LHD. A total of 2882 PLWH, including 882 (30.6%) patients with LHD and 1390 (48.2%) patients with non-LHD, were enrolled. The risk factors for LHD were older age (≥ 30 years: p < .01) and diagnosis in the general population through physical examination (p < .0001). Moreover, the molecular network analysis revealed that the clustering rate (p < .0001), the fraction of individuals with ≥ 4 links (p = .0847), and the fraction of individuals linked to recent HIV infection (p < .0001) for LHD were significantly or marginally significantly lower than those recorded for non-LHD. Our study indicates the major risk factors associated with LHD in Shenyang and their limited contribution to HIV transmission, revealing that the peak of HIV transmission of LHD at diagnosis may have been missed. Early detection, diagnosis, and timely intervention for LHD may prevent HIV transmission.
Learning to measure the area of composite shapes
Authors: Lehmann Timothy H.
Published: December 2022

Learning to calculate the area of composite shapes is an important application of area measurement but evidence suggests that many middle school students struggle to calculate the area of even simple composite shapes. In this article, I report the findings of a classroom design study conducted to investigate the collective development of strategies for measuring the area of composite shapes. I used the theory of strategy choice from an emergent perspective to analyze the collective strategy choice of two Year 8 mathematics classes (n = 31) and the findings revealed that the classes developed a repertoire of strategies to decompose the shapes, measure the area of the constituent shapes, and recompose those areas to calculate total area. The students used their strategies in flexible combinations in response to the varying features of the composite shapes presented and developed justifications to support their emerging adaptive strategy choice.
The spectrum of simplicial volume with fixed fundamental group
Authors: Löh Clara
Published: December 2022

We study the spectrum of simplicial volume for closed manifolds with fixed fundamental group and relate the gap problem to rationality questions in bounded (co)homology. In particular, we show that in many cases this spectrum has a gap at zero. For such groups, this leads to corresponding gap results for the minimal volume entropy semi-norm and for the minimal volume entropy in dimension 4.
Spacetime singularities and curvature blow-ups
Authors: Rácz István
Published: December 2022

The singularity theorems of Penrose, Hawking, and Geroch predict the existence of incomplete inextendible causal geodesics in a wide range of physically adequate spacetimes modeling the gravitational collapse of stars and the expanding universe. Here, using results on spacetime extensions, it is shown that if a suitable low regular form of the strong cosmic censor hypothesis holds, then parallelly propagated blow-up of either the tidal force or frame-drag part of the curvature must occur in “generic” timelike geodesically incomplete maximal Cauchy developments.
Vestigial structures and variation in the evolution of the marsupial mammal dental development—a study of the woolly opossum Caluromys philander
Authors: McKay Calum J. , Luckett W. Patrick , Sánchez-Villagra Marcelo R.
Published: December 2022

The pattern of dental replacement in marsupial mammals has received much attention for its derived nature and potential relationship to the life history of the group. However, few species have been studied thoroughly, and little is known about the embryonic structures and their use in addressing issues of homology and dental evolution in general. We studied a developmental series of ten individuals of pouch young Caluromys philander to thoroughly document dental development with histological sections and 3D models of dental series. We report that the successor P3 arises from a lingual successional lamina from its predecessor dP3. The germs of vestigial, unerupted deciduous incisors and canines are present alongside their respective permanent successors. These discoveries demonstrate significant differences from the developmental patterns reported for Didelphis and Monodelphis and illustrate that an unsuspected diversity of dental ontogeny is not reflected in the adult pattern of mineralised, erupted or almost erupted teeth.
How the Identity of Substance Users Shapes Public Opinion on Opioid Policy
Authors: de Benedictis-Kessner Justin , Hankinson Michael
Published: December 2022

How do media portrayals of potential policy beneficiaries’ identities sway public support for these policies in a public health setting? Using a pre-registered vignette experiment, we show that the racial identity of substance users depicted in news media shapes public opinion on policies to address the opioid crisis. People display biases in favor of their own racial identity group that manifest in their support for both treatment-based policies and punitive policies. We show that these biases may be moderated by the type of initial drug used by a substance user and associated levels of perceived blame. Extending theories of group politics, we also assess favoritism based on gender and residential context identities, but find no such biases. These results highlight the continued centrality of race in the formation of policy preferences.
Microplastics Concentrations in Soil Along a Racetrack
Authors: Mengistu Demmelash , Nilsen Vegard , Coutris Claire , Amdal Helena Marie , Heistad Arve
Published: December 2022

Motorsport is known for its high tire wear due to speed, cornering, and high acceleration/deceleration activities. However, studies on the generation of microplastics from racetracks are rare. This study aimed at quantifying microplastics concentrations in topsoil (0–5 cm) along a racetrack. The results showed that rubber materials (RM) and tire reinforcement microplastics (TRMP) were deposited in the soil along the racetrack. Concentrations of the two microplastics were affected by the distance from the edge of the racetrack (highest concentrations within 20 cm from the track) and track alignment (highest concentrations at the start/finish area). In addition, a weak correlation was observed between the concentrations of the two microplastics, suggesting the effect of track alignment on the type of microplastics abraded. The results also showed that coarser microplastics (1000–5000 μm) dominate the size distribution of microplastics along a racetrack. The findings of this study may provide racetrack managers with basic information for designing microplastic-controlling solutions. While additional studies are required to map environmental effects and policy measures, our initial results suggest that motorsport is of concern in terms of microplastics release to the environment.
Learning Collaboratives: a Strategy for Quality Improvement and Implementation in Behavioral Health
Authors: Gotham Heather J. , Paris Manuel , Hoge Michael A.
Published: December 2022

Learning collaboratives are increasingly used in behavioral health. They generally involve bringing together teams from different organizations and using experts to educate and coach the teams in quality improvement, implementing evidence-based practices, and measuring the effects. Although learning collaboratives have demonstrated some effectiveness in general health care, the evidence is less clear in behavioral health and more rigorous studies are needed. Learning collaboratives may contain a range of elements, and which elements are included in any one learning collaborative varies widely; the unique contribution of each element has not been established. This commentary seeks to clarify the concept of a learning collaborative, highlight its common elements, review evidence of its effectiveness, identify its application in behavioral health, and highlight recommendations to guide technical assistance purveyors and behavioral health providers as they employ learning collaboratives to improve behavioral health access and quality.
Nonlinear relationships in bankruptcy prediction and their effect on the profitability of bankruptcy prediction models
Authors: Lohmann Christian , Möllenhoff Steffen , Ohliger Thorsten
Published: December 2022

This study uses generalized additive models to identify and analyze nonlinear relationships between accounting-based and market-based independent variables and how these affect bankruptcy predictions. Specifically, it examines the independent variables that Altman (J Financ 23:589–609, 1968; Predicting financial distress of companies. Revisiting the Z-score and ZETA® models. Working paper, 2000) and Campbell et al. (J Financ 63:2899–2939, 2008) used and analyzes what specific form these nonlinear relationships take. Drawing on comprehensive data on listed U.S. companies, we show empirically that the bankruptcy prediction is influenced by statistically and economically relevant nonlinear relationships. Our results indicate that taking into account these nonlinear relationships improves significantly several statistical validity measures. We also use a validity measure that is based on the profitability of the bankruptcy prediction models in the context of credit scoring. The findings demonstrate that taking into account nonlinear relationships can substantially increase the discriminatory power of bankruptcy prediction models.
Role of modified hydration for preventing contrast-associated acute kidney injury in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction after primary percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Liu Lei , Zhou Li , Li Weiping , Chen Hui , Li Hongwei
Published: December 2022

To assess the efficacy of modified hydration on contrast-associated acute kidney injury (CA-AKI) in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) after primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI). A total of 438 patients were randomly assigned to 2 groups. The traditional hydration group (group I) was given at a rate of 1 ml/kg/h for 24 h, and the modified hydration group (group II) was given at a rate of 3 ml/kg/h in the first 4 h, and then reduced to 1 ml/kg/h for 12 h. 0.3 mg/kg of furosemide was given 1-h after hydration. The primary endpoint was the incidence of CA-AKI, and the secondary endpoint was the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) during a median of 22.4 months (IQR 9.6, 32.6 months) follow-up. The incidence of CA-AKI was 8.7%. Among these, Group I was 9.1% and group II was 8.2%, respectively. There was no significant difference in CA-AKI and creatinine levels between the two hydration groups. Multivariable logistics regression analysis revealed that creatinine, white blood cells, and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide were associated with CA-AKI. Moreover, CA-AKI was an independent predictor for all-cause death and cardiac death during the follow-up period. The modified hydration may reduce the incidence of CA-AKI, although this difference was not statistically significant. The relationship between CA-AKI and mortality strengthened as creatinine times above baseline increased. Mitigating the occurrence of CA-AKI may reduce all-cause death and cardiac death.
One-bath one-dye class dyeing of polyester/cotton blend fabric with disperse dye after esterification of cotton fabric
Authors: Tegegne Worku , Tesfaye Tamrat , Zeleke Yirdawu , Ketema Gezu
Published: December 2022

Most often, reactive and disperse dyes are utilized separately in two- bath two-step dyeing method to dye polyester-cotton blend fabric. The cost of this conventional dyeing method is very expensive; energy and chemical usage is also quite higher in addition to this, the dyeing cycle is complex as compared to one-bath two-step dyeing methods or single-bath single-step dyeing methods. The single-bath single-step dyeing procedure with a single type of dye class was studied in this research. Following surface treatment of cotton through esterification procedures, polyester-cotton blend fabric dyed in single-bath single-step dyeing processes with disperse dye was examined. The association between time and the percentage of esterification was investigated at room temperature. Varying dye concentrations and dyeing temperatures were utilized to dye surface-treated p/c blend fabric in an HTHP dyeing machine. The color strength of dyed material and their fastness properties and the Surface chemistry by using FTIR were evaluated. The influence of dye concentration and temperature on color strength was investigated. With a 15% esterifying agent concentration and a reaction period of 2.5 h, the optimum value for surface modification was obtained, yielding a percent esterification of 34.95. The optimal value was attained with a dye concentration above 1% at a temperature of 120 °C, according to the dyeing experiment results. The findings of this study revealed that when compared to conventional two-bath dyed fabric, one-step one-bath dyed modified polyester/cotton blend with Disperse dye fabric has good wash fastness, and color strength, and is environmentally friendly.
Using unstable data from mobile phone applications to examine recent trajectories of retail centre recovery
Authors: Ballantyne Patrick , Singleton Alex , Dolega Les
Published: December 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the ways in which we shop, with significant impacts on retail and consumption spaces. Yet, empirical evidence of these impacts, specifically at the national level, or focusing on latter periods of the pandemic remain notably absent. Using a large spatio-temporal mobility dataset, which exhibits significant temporal instability, we explore the recovery of retail centres from summer 2021 to 2022, considering in particular how these responses are determined by the functional and structural characteristics of retail centres and their regional geography. Our findings provide important empirical evidence of the multidimensionality of retail centre recovery, highlighting in particular the importance of composition, e-resilience and catchment deprivation in determining such trajectories, and identifying key retail centre functions and regions that appear to be recovering faster than others. In addition, we present a use case for mobility data that exhibits temporal stability, highlighting the benefits of viewing mobility data as a series of snapshots rather than a complete time series. It is our view that such data, when controlling for temporal stability, can provide a useful way to monitor the economic performance of retail centres over time, providing evidence that can inform policy decisions, and support interventions to both acute and longer-term issues in the retail sector.