bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economic calculation and transaction costs: The case of the airline oversales auction system
Authors: Boettke Peter J. , Candela Rosolino A. , Jacobsen Peter J.
Published: January 2023

According to Nobel Laureate Edmund Phelps (2013, p. 123), Mises's critique of economic calculation under socialism renders him the originator of the economic analysis of property rights. This paper also suggests that implicit to Mises's impossibility theorem was also the origins of the theory of transaction costs. This raises the following question: what is the relationship, if any, between the process of economic calculation and the concept of transaction costs? Filtered through a Misesian lens, we argue that transaction costs are the costs of engaging in economic calculation. We illustrate our theoretical point utilizing the case of airline oversales auction system first proposed by Julian Simon (1968). In doing so, we reframe the problem of airline oversales from a transaction‐cost approach, one in which property rights in airline seats are initially poorly defined. By doing so, we illustrate that resources expended to discover the valuable attributes of a good (in this case airline seats), the terms of exchange between potential trading partners, as well as enforcing the terms of an exchange, all of which are transaction costs, are also, by definition, the costs of calculating the exchange value of goods. Thus, the airlines oversales auction system is illustrative of an institutional solution to the problem of economic calculation via a reduction of transaction costs.
Co‐insertion of Water with Protons into Organic Electrodes Enables High‐Rate and High‐Capacity Proton Batteries
Authors: Su Zhen , Tang Jiaqi , Chen Junbo , Guo Haocheng , Wu Sicheng , Yin Songyan , Zhao Tingwen , Jia Chen , Meyer Quentin , Rawal Aditya , Ho Junming , Fang Yu , Zhao Chuan
Published: January 2023

The inherent short‐term transience of renewable energy sources causes significant challenges for the electricity grids. Energy storage systems that can simultaneously provide high power and high energy efficiency are required to accommodate the intermittent renewables. Herein, an ultrafast and high‐capacity aqueous proton battery is developed based on the organic pyrene‐4,5,9,10‐tetraone (PTO) anode. The co‐insertion of H2O molecules and proton into the PTO organic anode effectively reduces the interfacial resistance between the anode and electrolytes, and achieves an unprecedented rate capability up to 250 C and as short as 7 s per charge/discharge. A PTO‐based full cell exhibits an outstanding power density (>104 W kg−1) comparable to supercapacitors. The full utilization of the four C=O groups in PTO molecule during cycling enables the highest capacity (85 mAh g−1) reported for proton batteries to date. This study represents a significant leap forward in the exploitation of ultrafast electrochemical energy storage and accelerates the development of intermittent grid‐scale energy storage technologies.
Dissolution of WO3 modified with IrOx overlayers during photoelectrochemical water splitting
Authors: Jenewein Ken J. , Knöppel Julius , Hofer André , Kormányos Attila , Mayerhöfer Britta , Speck Florian D. , Bierling Markus , Thiele Simon , Bachmann Julien , Cherevko Serhiy
Published: January 2023

WO3, an abundant transition metal semiconductor, is one of the most discussed materials to be used as a photoanode in photoelectrochemical water‐splitting devices. The photoelectrochemical properties, such as photoactivity and selectivity of WO3 in different electrolytes, are already well understood. However, the understanding of stability, one of the most important properties for utilization in a commercial device, is still in the early stages. In this work, a photoelectrochemical scanning flow cell coupled to an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer is applied to determine the influence of co‐catalyst overlayers on photoanode stability. Spray‐coated WO3 photoanodes are used as a model system. Iridium is applied to the electrodes by atomic layer deposition in controlled layer thickness, as determined by ellipsometry and x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Photoactivity of the iridium‐modified WO3 photoanodes decreases with increasing iridium layer thickness. Partial blocking of the WO3 surface by iridium is proposed as the main cause of the decreased photoelectrochemical performance. On the other hand, the stability of WO3 is notably increased even in the presence of the thinnest investigated iridium overlayer. Based on our findings, we provide a set of strategies to synthesize nanocomposite photoelectrodes simultaneously possessing high photoelectrochemical activity and photostability.
Auxiliary Resonant Snubber‐Based Soft‐Switching Converter with Saturable Inductor to Reduce Reverse Recovery Current and Loss
Authors: Zhang Hailin , Zhang Qi , Yao Jun , Qin Zhentao
Published: January 2023

The auxiliary resonant snubber‐based converter (ARSC) has the advantages of low dead‐time effect and low switching loss. However, the auxiliary switches suffer from high reverse recovery loss and high reverse recovery current in high‐switching frequency application. Thus, the ARSC with saturable inductor is proposed to solve the problem above. In this paper, the operating principle of ARSC with saturable inductor is analyzed, and the duty cycle operating range that can realize ZVS in the full load range is deduced. The reverse recovery model of the auxiliary switching device body diode is established to analyze the circuit parameters' influence. Then, the influence of the saturable inductor on the reverse recovery peak current and reverse recovery loss is analyzed. Based on the analysis results, the saturable inductance parameters are designed. Finally, based on the experimental platform of the ARSC, the effectiveness of the proposed method is verified. © 2023 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Applying clinical audit for quality improvement in canine dystocia cases seen at a UK primary‐care emergency practice
Authors: Leicester Lucy , Reid Aoife , Gilbert Sophie , Marshall Racheal , O'Neill Dan G.
Published: January 2023

Background

The paucity of published veterinary clinical audits suggests that clinical audit is an under‐used tool for quality improvement (QI) in the veterinary profession. Therefore, a continuous QI process was designed and implemented at a UK multisite small animal emergency practice, focusing on audit of clinical management of canine dystocia.

Methods

Data collection phases were undertaken in 2014, 2019 and 2021, with intervening knowledge dissemination activities. Nine variables relating to clinical management of canine dystocia were selected as audit criteria in the initial dataset, and 21 variables were measured in each subsequent phase.

Results

Between 2014 and 2021, statistically significant increases (p < 0.05) were demonstrated in recording of bodyweight, use of diagnostic imaging, use of ultrasonography, recording of fetal heart rates, use of calcium gluconate, and use during caesarean section of intravenous fluid therapy, multimodal analgesia, full agonist opioids, paracetamol and local anaesthesia. Statistically significant decreases were demonstrated in median first quantity and median first dose of oxytocin, and in the use of NSAIDs during caesarean section. A clinical audit planning template was created for future audits.

Limitations

Typical case presentation and management of canine dystocia cases may vary between dedicated emergency and non‐emergency primary‐care settings.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the feasibility of large‐scale veterinary clinical audit and suggests that the application of the clinical audit process promotes learning within the veterinary team and improved clinical outcomes.
Diagnostic utility of serum bile acids in dogs presenting with epileptic seizures consistent with a tier 1 confidence level diagnosis of idiopathic epilepsy
Authors: Fisher Chloe , Harcourt‐Brown Tom
Published: January 2023

Background

The International Veterinary Epilepsy Task Force consensus guidelines recommend performing fasting serum bile acid (SBA) and/or serum ammonia measurements as part of a tier 1 diagnosis of idiopathic epilepsy in dogs. The aim of this retrospective study was to determine the diagnostic utility of fasting SBA in this population.

Methods

Dogs that met the tier 1 confidence level diagnosis of idiopathic epilepsy, with the additional requirement of both fasting and 2‐hour postprandial SBA measurements, were included. The incidence of significant hepatopathies and usefulness of dynamic SBA testing and minimum database results were analysed.

Results

A total of 233 dogs were included. All dogs diagnosed with clinically significant hepatopathy had elevations in postprandial SBA, with eight of 14 (57.14%) showing elevations in fasting SBA. The prevalence of clinically significant hepatopathies that could have been missed without using postprandial SBA measurement was 1.29%.

Limitations

The further investigations performed were not uniform and there were limitations in the ability to control sampling techniques due to the retrospective nature of this study. Investigations into hepatopathy were not standardised across this study population.

Conclusions

This study documents the importance of postprandial SBA measurements in the detection of hepatopathies and reveals that non‐dynamic blood sampling has a negative predictive value of 91% for detecting elevated postprandial SBA, specific to dogs meeting the tier 1 confidence level diagnosis of idiopathic epilepsy.
Influence of camera model and alignment on the performance of paired camera stations
Authors: Swearingen Tim C. , Klaver Robert W. , Anderson Charles R. , Jacques Christopher N.
Published: January 2023

The probability of obtaining images of target species may vary across camera models or relative position of cameras at survey locations. Alignment of cameras within paired camera stations (hereafter, stations) could affect species detection due to issues with image exposure. We quantified effects of 3 camera models and alignment (staggered, offset by a perpendicular distance of 4.6 m, and aligned, directly facing one another) on camera performance in a station design. Mean exposure events (flash from one camera overexposes or underexposes pictures) at aligned stations was 3.93 (SE = 1.01; n = 40), whereas no exposure events were documented at staggered (n = 36) stations. Overall frequency of exposure events of mammal images at aligned cameras was 44% (68 exposure events/153 images). On average, 8% (range 0−35%) of mammal images from aligned stations were exposure events. We detected no difference (P = 0.88) in exposure events among paired camera models. Further, we detected no overall differences (P ≥ 0.07) in paired camera performance (i.e., number of mammal images over survey interval) between aligned or staggered stations, though reliability (i.e., percentage of camera stations that lasted entire survey interval) varied (P ≤ 0.001) between model types. Research deploying 2 cameras within a camera station framework can eliminate exposure events by using a staggered camera alignment without affecting the number of usable mammal photos. Rigorous field testing prior to deployment of stations is warranted to optimize reliability. One of our low‐cost models performed as well as a more expensive model within our paired camera stations at collecting mammal images, and thus could be incorporated into study designs without compromising quality of camera photo data. We suggest a pilot study before large‐scale deployment to evaluate reliability and performance of cameras, particularly when deploying multiple models.
(Quasi-) de Sitter solutions across dimensions and the TCC bound
Authors: Andriot David , Horer Ludwig
Published: January 2023

Abstract

In this work, we investigate the existence of string theory solutions with a d-dimensional (quasi-) de Sitter spacetime, for 3 ≤ d ≤ 10. Considering classical compactifications, we derive no-go theorems valid for general d. We use them to exclude (quasi-) de Sitter solutions for d ≥ 7. In addition, such solutions are found unlikely to exist in d = 6, 5. For each no-go theorem, we further compute the d-dependent parameter c of the swampland de Sitter conjecture, $$ {M}_p\frac{\mid \nabla V\mid }{V}\ge c $$

M
p

∣
∇
V
∣

V

≥
c
. Remarkably, the TCC bound $$ c\ge \frac{2}{\sqrt{\left(d-1\right)\left(d-2\right)}} $$
c
≥

2

d
−
1

d
−
2

is then perfectly satisfied for d ≥ 4, with several saturation cases. However, we observe a violation of this bound in d = 3. We finally comment on related proposals in the literature, on the swampland distance conjecture and its decay rate, and on the so-called accelerated expansion bound.
18F-Florzolotau PET imaging captures the distribution patterns and regional vulnerability of tau pathology in progressive supranuclear palsy
Authors: Liu Feng-Tao , Lu Jia-Ying , Li Xin-Yi , Liang Xiao-Niu , Jiao Fang-Yang , Ge Jing-Jie , Wu Ping , Li Gen , Shen Bo , Wu Bin , Sun Yi-Min , Zhu Yu-Hua , Luo Jian-Feng , Yen Tzu-Chen , Wu Jian-Jun , Zuo Chuan-Tao , Wang Jian ,   for the Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Neuroimage Initiative (PSPNI)
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Human post mortem studies have described the topographical patterns of tau pathology in progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). Recent advances in tau PET tracers are expected to herald the next era of PSP investigation for early detection of tau pathology in living brains. This study aimed to investigate whether 18F-Florzolotau PET imaging may capture the distribution patterns and regional vulnerability of tau pathology in PSP, and to devise a novel image-based staging system.

Methods

The study cohort consisted of 148 consecutive patients with PSP who had undergone 18F-Florzolotau PET imaging. The PSP rating scale (PSPrs) was used to measure disease severity. Similarities and differences of tau deposition among different clinical phenotypes were examined at the regional and voxel levels. An 18F-Florzolotau pathological staging system was devised according to the scheme originally developed for post mortem data. In light of conditional probabilities for the sequence of events, an 18F-Florzolotau modified staging system by integrating clusters at the regional level was further developed. The ability of 18F-Florzolotau staging systems to reflect disease severity in terms of PSPrs score was assessed by analysis of variance.

Results

The distribution patterns of 18F-Florzolotau accumulation in living brains of PSP showed a remarkable similarity to those reported in post mortem studies, with the binding intensity being markedly higher in Richardson’s syndrome. Moreover, 18F-Florzolotau PET imaging allowed detecting regional vulnerability and tracking tau accumulation in an earlier fashion compared with post mortem immunostaining. The 18F-Florzolotau staging systems were positively correlated with clinical severity as reflected by PSPrs scores.

Conclusions

18F-Florzolotau PET imaging can effectively capture the distribution patterns and regional vulnerability of tau pathology in PSP. The 18F-Florzolotau modified staging system holds promise for early tracking of tau deposition in living brains.
Corrective bandages and daily manipulations for treatment of congenital vertical talus: a thirteen year follow-up
Authors: Utrilla-Rodríguez Elia , Díaz-Ávila Nieves , Sáez-Díaz Antonia , Munuera-Martínez Pedro V. , Albornoz-Cabello Manuel
Published: January 2023

Purpose

To analyze the results of a conservative method for treating congenital vertical talus in children with early start and to know in which cases surgical treatment was needed.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of all children diagnosed with idiopathic vertical talus was carried out during the years 2008–2021. Thirty-two children (46 feet) were finally included. Children were treated with serial manipulations, muscle stimulation, and corrective bandages. Age at the time of initiation of treatment, duration of treatment, and correction or not of the deformity without surgical intervention were recorded as variables of interest. The talocalcaneal angle, TAMBA, and ankle range of motion were measured before treatment, after treatment, and at the end of the follow-up period. Statistics decision tree was used to determine which variable best discriminated whether the patient needed surgery. To complement the tree diagram, a two-step cluster analysis was carried out.

Results

After treatment, TAMBA and talocalcaneal angle changed from “vertical” to “oblique” category in 45 and 37 feet, respectively. The pathological dorsal flexion of the ankle changed to normal in 37 feet and ankle plantar flexion was normal in 46 feet. These variables showed significant changes between the three measurement moments. The results of the statistics decision tree and cluster analysis indicate that “No surgery” was associated with an age equal to or lower than one week when treatment was started, and with an ankle plantar flexion range of motion lower than 36°.

Conclusions

The beginning of this conservative treatment in the first week of life and having a plantar flexion of the ankle lower than 36° were related to the success of the treatment without surgery.
Drivers of Perceived Nuisance Growth by Aquatic Plants
Authors: Thiemer Kirstine , Immerzeel Bart , Schneider Susanne , Sebola Keneilwe , Coetzee Julie , Baldo Mathieu , Thiebaut Gabrielle , Hilt Sabine , Köhler Jan , Harpenslager Sarah Faye , Vermaat Jan E.
Published: January 2023

Mass developments of macrophytes occur frequently worldwide and are often considered a nuisance when interfering with human activities. It is crucial to understand the drivers of this perception if we are to develop effective management strategies for ecosystems with macrophyte mass developments. Using a comprehensive survey spanning five sites with different macrophyte species in four countries (Norway, France, Germany and South Africa), we quantified the perception of macrophyte growth as a nuisance among residents and visitors, and for different recreational activities (swimming, boating, angling, appreciation of biodiversity, appreciation of landscape and birdwatching). We then used a Bayesian network approach to integrate the perception of nuisance with the consequences of plant removal. From the 1234 responses collected from the five sites, a range of 73–93% of the respondents across the sites considered macrophyte growth a nuisance at each site. Residents perceived macrophytes up to 23% more problematic than visitors. Environmental mindedness of respondents did not influence the perception of nuisance. Perceived nuisance of macrophytes was relatively similar for different recreational activities that were possible in each case study site, although we found some site-specific variation. Finally, we illustrate how Bayesian networks can be used to choose the best management option by balancing people’s perception of macrophyte growth with the potential consequences of macrophyte removal.
Perioperative Risk Assessment in Humanitarian Settings: A Scoping Review
Authors: Wild Hannah , Stewart Barclay T. , LeBoa Christopher , Jewell Teresa , Mehta Kajal , Wren Sherry M.
Published: January 2023

Background

No validated perioperative risk assessment models currently exist for use in humanitarian settings. To inform the development of a perioperative mortality risk assessment model applicable to humanitarian settings, we conducted a scoping review of the literature to identify reports that described perioperative risk assessment in surgical care in humanitarian settings and LMICs.

Methods

We conducted a scoping review of the literature to identify records that described perioperative risk assessment in low‐resource or humanitarian settings. Searches were conducted in databases including: PubMed, Embase, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Web of Science, World Health Organization Catalog, and Google Scholar.

Results

Our search identified 1582 records. After title/abstract and full text screening, 50 reports remained eligible for analysis in quantitative and qualitative synthesis. These reports presented data from over 37 countries from public, NGO, and military facilities. Data reporting was highly inconsistent: fewer than half of reports presented the indication for surgery; less than 25% of reports presented data on injury severity or prehospital data. Most elements of perioperative risk models designed for high‐resource settings (e.g., vital signs, laboratory data, and medical comorbidities) were unavailable.

Conclusion

At present, no perioperative mortality risk assessment model exists for use in humanitarian settings. Limitations in consistency and quality of data reporting are a primary barrier, however, can be addressed through data‐driven identification of several key variables encompassed by a minimum dataset. The development of such a score is a critical step toward improving the quality of care provided to populations affected by conflict and protracted humanitarian crises.
A 5-year prospective study of health-related quality of life in irradiated head and neck cancer patients: three trends of HRQL over time
Authors: Aghajanzadeh Susan , Tuomi Lisa , Karlsson Therese
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Head and neck cancer (HNC) is one of the fastest increasing cancer-types, where both disease and oncologic treatment have severe impact on health-related quality of life (HRQL). This study aimed to report HRQL prospectively up to 5-years following radiotherapy-treatment in HNC and to, if possible, identify trends in HRQL over time.

Methods

This prospective study followed 211 patients receiving curatively intended radiotherapy pre-diagnosis, 3-, 6-, 12- and 60-months post-radiotherapy completion. HRQL was measured using EORTC QLQ-C30 and EORTC QLQ-HN35.

Results

A deterioration three months post-radiotherapy was reported in 14/15 domains of EORTC QLQ-C30. Eight out of 12 domains had recovered to baseline-values at 12 months post-radiotherapy and remained unchanged up to study endpoint. Corresponding figures for EORTC QLQ-HN35 were deteriorations in 15/16 domains at three months post-radiotherapy, with recovery of 5 domain at 12-months, whereas the other 11 domains remained significantly worse at 5-years post-RT compared to baseline.

Conclusion

Following the deterioration in HRQL seen immediately following radiotherapy, the continued course of HRQL can be divided into three trends: short-term deterioration, long-term deterioration and long-term improvements. The combination of disease- and diagnosis-specific questionnaires is crucial when assessing HRQL in the HNC population.
Costs and clinical benefits of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) in pancreaticoduodenectomy: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Noba Lyrics , Rodgers Sheila , Doi Lawrence , Chandler Colin , Hariharan Deepak , Yip Vincent
Published: January 2023

Purpose

ERAS is a holistic and multidisciplinary pathway that incorporates various evidence-based interventions to accelerate recovery and improve clinical outcomes. However, evidence on cost benefit of ERAS in pancreaticoduodenectomy remains scarce. This review aimed to investigate cost benefit, compliance, and clinical benefits of ERAS in pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted on Medline, Embase, PubMed, CINAHL and the Cochrane library to identify studies conducted between 2000 and 2021, comparing effect of ERAS programmes and traditional care on hospital cost, length of stay (LOS), complications, delayed gastric emptying (DGE), readmission, reoperation, mortality, and compliance.

Results

The search yielded 3 RCTs and 28 cohort studies. Hospital costs were significantly reduced in the ERAS group (SMD = − 1.41; CL, − 2.05 to − 0.77; P < 0.00001). LOS was shortened by 3.15 days (MD = − 3.15; CI, − 3.94 to − 2.36; P < 0.00001) in the ERAS group. Fewer patients in the ERAS group had complications (RR = 0.83; CI, 0.76–0.91; P < 0.0001). Incidences of DGE significantly decreased in the ERAS group (RR = 0.72; CI, 0.55–0.94; P = 0.01). The number of deaths was fewer in the ERAS group (RR = 0.76; CI, 0.58–1.00; P = 0.05).

Conclusion

This review demonstrated that ERAS is safe and feasible in pancreaticoduodenectomy, improves clinical outcome such as LOS, complications, DGE and mortality rates, without changing readmissions and reoperations, while delivering significant cost savings. Higher compliance is associated with better clinical outcomes, especially LOS and complications.
Epidemiological study on factors influencing the occurrence of helminth eggs in horses in Germany based on sent-in diagnostic samples
Authors: Boelow Heike , Krücken Jürgen , von Samson-Himmelstjerna Georg
Published: January 2023

Gastrointestinal nematodes are ubiquitous parasites of grazing equines with Parascaris spp., and strongyles being the most relevant ones regarding the prevalence and potential disease severity. Despite their importance, epidemiological data regarding the presence and egg-shedding intensities of these parasites are scarce. Data from 1067 horse samples collected on German horse farms initially to compare diagnostic methods were used for epidemiological analyses. Due to its higher sensitivity, presence/absence data were based on a combined sedimentation/flotation technique while faecal egg counts were based on Mini-FLOTAC. For strongyles, 46.5% of the samples were positive and the median egg-shedding intensity was 40 (range 5–2590). In multivariate analyses, prevalence and egg-shedding intensity were significantly influenced by season, age group and sample type. The drug used for the last treatment and the number of foals on the yard only affected prevalence while the number of horses on the yard and sex were only significant for egg-shedding intensity. For Parascaris spp., a prevalence of 4.6% and a median egg-shedding intensity of 0 (range 5–905) were observed. In multivariate analyses, the age group, the time since the last anthelmintic treatment, presence and number of foals had significant effects on ascarid prevalence whereas egg-shedding intensity was significantly influenced by age group and season only. Parascaris occurred only on yards with foals, but with an increasing number of foals, Parascaris egg-shedding intensity decreased. Prevalence and egg-shedding intensity were influenced by different but partially overlapping variables for Parascaris and strongyles.
A large-deviations principle for all the components in a sparse inhomogeneous random graph
Authors: Andreis Luisa , König Wolfgang , Langhammer Heide , Patterson Robert I. A.
Published: January 2023

We study an inhomogeneous sparse random graph, $${\mathcal G }_N$$

G
N

, on $$[N]=\{1,\dots ,N\}$$

[
N
]
=
{
1
,
⋯
,
N
}

as introduced in a seminal paper by Bollobás et al. (Random Struct Algorithms 31(1):3–122, 2007): vertices have a type (here in a compact metric space $${\mathcal S }$$
S
), and edges between different vertices occur randomly and independently over all vertex pairs, with a probability depending on the two vertex types. In the limit $$N\rightarrow \infty $$

N
→
∞

, we consider the sparse regime, where the average degree is O(1). We prove a large-deviations principle with explicit rate function for the statistics of the collection of all the connected components, registered according to their vertex type sets, and distinguished according to being microscopic (of finite size) or macroscopic (of size $$\asymp N$$

≍
N

). In doing so, we derive explicit logarithmic asymptotics for the probability that $${\mathcal G }_N$$

G
N

is connected. We present a full analysis of the rate function including its minimizers. From this analysis we deduce a number of limit laws, conditional and unconditional, which provide comprehensive information about all the microscopic and macroscopic components of $${\mathcal G }_N$$

G
N

. In particular, we recover the criterion for the existence of the phase transition given in Bollobás et al. (2007).
The significance of central blood pressure for cardiovascular target organ damage in children and adolescents after kidney transplantation
Authors: Greiner Anne-Sophie , von der Born Jeannine , Kohlmeier Lena , Grabitz Carl , Bauer Elena , Memaran Nima , Sugianto Rizky Indrameikha , Kanzelmeyer Nele , Fröde Kerstin , Schmidt Bernhard , Melk Anette
Published: January 2023

Background

Cardiovascular (CV) complications are important causes of morbidity and mortality in children after kidney transplantation (KTx). In adults, central blood pressure (cBP) is an accepted predictor of CV sequelae. We aimed to assess the prognostic value of cBP over peripheral blood pressure (pBP) for existing CV damage.

Methods

We measured cBP and pBP in 48 pediatric KTx recipients (mean age: 13.5 ± 4.2 years). Assessment of left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and aortic pulse wave velocity (PWV) allowed detection of CV target organ damage. LVMI and PWV were used as endpoints in multivariable linear regression models, in which cBP and pBP were compared for their predictive value.

Results

Using cBP z-scores, we identified a larger number of patients with uncontrolled or untreated hypertension compared to pBP (36% vs. 7%). Central systolic blood pressure (cSBP) was a significant independent predictor of LVMI, while peripheral systolic blood pressure (pSBP) was not. Comparing central (cDBP) and peripheral (pDBP) diastolic blood pressure for their predictive value on PWV revealed a greater estimate for cDBP (0.035 vs. 0.026 for pDBP) along with a slightly better model fit for cDBP.

Conclusions

Our data in a small group of patients provide first evidence that cBP measurements in pediatric KTx recipients might be helpful in identifying patients at risk for the development of CV sequelae. Investigating a larger patient number, ideally repeatedly, is needed to create further evidence supporting our findings. In light of available devices measuring cBP noninvasively, the implementation of such clinical studies post-KTx care should be feasible.

Graphical abstract
Hardy and Rellich inequality on lattices
Authors: Gupta Shubham
Published: January 2023

In this paper, we study the asymptotic behaviour of the sharp constant in discrete Hardy and Rellich inequality on the lattice $$\mathbb {Z}^d$$

Z

d

as $$d \rightarrow \infty $$

d
→
∞

. In the process, we proved some Hardy-type inequalities for the operators $$\Delta ^m$$

Δ
m

and $$\nabla (\Delta ^m)$$

∇
(

Δ
m

)

for non-negative integers m on a d dimensional torus. It turns out that the sharp constant in discrete Hardy and Rellich inequality grows as d and $$d^2$$

d
2

respectively as $$ d \rightarrow \infty $$

d
→
∞

.
Localising and quantifying night-time cooling effects from sub-catchments in a mid-European low mountain area
Authors: Döscher Niels , Ketzler Gunnar , Leuchner Michael
Published: January 2023

We propose a novel method to analyse and quantify cooling effects provided to a settlement by source areas of nocturnal cold-air drainage. In an interdisciplinary approach, these source areas were defined as hydrological sub-catchments of a complex catchment area in a low mountain range. The cold-air drainage model KLAM_21 was used to exclude the energetic influence of the sub-catchments from the model area by surrounding them with artificial barriers. The outputs of these runs were then compared to a reference run without exclusion to derive the cooling effect of each source area. The results were evaluated at sample points along the main valley and for residential areas of a medium sized city and two smaller settlements. We find that in the complex terrain of the study area, also comparatively remote source areas can have a noticeable cooling effect on the residential neighbourhoods of the target settlements from the middle of the night. The strongest effect however, could be attributed to the sub-catchments in direct vicinity of the target areas. The results at the sample points along the main valley showed that the cooling effect decreased with increasing distance to the sub-catchments and usually gets stronger during the night. The variation in strength of cooling effect between different sub-catchments is likely due to their individual properties such as remoteness, size, terrain, land-cover situation and cold-air exchange with other sub-catchments through overflow effects.
Accidental acquisition of a rescued Japanese encephalitis virus with unspliced introns in the viral genome when using an intron-based stabilization approach
Authors: Huang Ying , Xu Hongshan , Liu Shan , Lu Jiansheng , Jia Lili , Li Yuhua , Wang Rong , Yang Peng , Yu Yongxin , Yang Zhixin
Published: January 2023

The intron-based stabilization approach is a very useful strategy for construction of stable flavivirus infectious clones. SA14-14-2 is a highly attenuated Japanese encephalitis (JE) live vaccine strain that has been widely used in China since 1989. To develop safe and effective recombinant vaccines with SA14-14-2 as a backbone vector, we constructed the DNA-based infectious clone pCMW-JEV of SA14-14-2 using the intron-based stabilization approach and acquired the rescued virus rDJEV, which retained the biological properties of the parental virus. Unexpectedly, a rescued virus strain with altered virulence, designated rHV-DJEV, was accidentally acquired in one of the transfection experiments. rHV-DJEV showed up to 105-fold increased neurovirulence compared with the SA14-14-2 parental strain. Genome sequencing showed that the inserted introns were still present in the genome of rHV-DJEV. Therefore, we think that the intron-based stabilization approach should be used with caution in vaccine development and direct iDNA immunization.
Evaluation of the masking efficacy of caries infiltration in post-orthodontic initial caries lesions: 1-year follow-up
Authors: Wierichs R. J. , Abou-Ayash B. , Kobbe C. , Esteves-Oliveira M. , Wolf M. , Knaup I. , Meyer-Lueckel H.
Published: January 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to qualitatively and quantitatively assess the masking efficacy and color stability of resin infiltration on post-orthodontic ICL after 1 year.

Materials and methods

In 17 adolescents, 112 ICL (ICDAS-1: n = 1; ICDAS-2: n = 111) in 112 teeth were treated by resin infiltration (Icon, DMG) 3 to 12 months after bracket removal. The etching procedure was performed up to 3 times. Standardized digital images were taken before treatment (T0), 7 days (T7) and 12 months (T365) after treatment. Outcomes included the evaluation of the color differences between infiltrated and healthy enamel at T0, T7, and T365 by quantitative (colorimetric analysis (ΔE), ICDAS scores) and qualitative methods (5-point Likert scale (deteriorated (1), unchanged (2), improved, but not satisfying (3), improved and no further treatment required (4), completely masked (5)).) Differences between time points were analyzed by using Friedman test (ΔΕ) and chi-square tests (ICDAS).

Results

The median color difference (25th/75th percentiles) between carious and healthy enamel at baseline (ΔΕ0) was 10.2(7.7/13.6). A significant decrease was observed 7 days after treatment (ΔΕ7 = 3.1(1.8/5.0); p < 0.001; ICDAS; p < 0.001). No significant changes based on ΔΕ (p = 1.000), and ICDAS grade (p = 0.305) were observed between T7 and T365 (ΔΕ12 = 3.4 (1.8/4.9)). Furthermore, at T365 four experienced dentists classified 55% and 39% of the lesions as “improved and no further treatment required” and “completely masked,” respectively (Fleiss kappa: T365 = 0.851 (almost perfect)).

Conclusion

Resin infiltration efficaciously masked post-orthodontic ICL 7 days and 12 months after treatment. These results for most of the teeth could not only be observed by quantitative but also by qualitative analysis.

Clinical relevance

Resin infiltration efficaciously masks post-orthodontic initial carious lesions. The optical improvement can be observed directly after treatment and remains stable for at least 12 months.
Plant hydraulic resistance controls transpiration of soybean in rotational paddy fields under humid climates
Authors: Kubota Shigehiro , Nishida Kazuhiro , Yoshida Shuichiro
Published: January 2023

Efficient irrigation and drainage management are highly required for increasing crop productivity in paddy rice and upland crop rotation. However, conventional management does not sufficiently consider the water status of the plants and soil in the root zone. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the hydraulic resistance of soil (Rs) or plant (Rp) principally controlled transpiration in rotational paddy fields (RPFs) located in humid regions. To achieve this, we conducted field measurements of soil water conditions, evapotranspiration rate, and leaf water potential in RPFs cropped with soybean after the flowering stage and calculated Rs and Rp based on the theory of root water uptake. After the flowering stage, the soil was sometimes saturated owing to intermittent precipitation, and thus Rs was maintained at a low value. By contrast, Rp gradually increased over time and ranged between 5.1 × 108 and 10.3 × 108 s, which was one to three orders of magnitude higher than Rs. The ratio of the actual to the potential transpiration rate decreased throughout the investigation period and hardly reached 1.0, even though the soil was sufficiently wet. These results indicate that Rp, which probably increases with continuous soil saturation, controls crop transpiration in RPFs under humid climates. Our results suggest that drainage systems are essential in RPFs to avoid a change in Rp and improve crop productivity.
Reduced graphene oxide/polyurethane coatings for wash-durable wearable piezoresistive sensors
Authors: Olivieri Federico , Rollo Gennaro , De Falco Francesca , Avolio Roberto , Bonadies Irene , Castaldo Rachele , Cocca Mariacristina , Errico Maria Emanuela , Lavorgna Marino , Gentile Gennaro
Published: January 2023

Graphene-based functional coatings for cotton textiles were realized through an easy dip-coating procedure. Cotton fabrics were coated with a reduced graphene oxide (rGO) layer and then protected with a very thin polyurethane (PU) layer that does not affect the flexibility and the hand of the pristine cotton. The application of the rGO coating induces electrical conductivity to the fabric and the application of the PU phase increases the durability of the coatings, that show very stable surface resistivity after 10 washing cycles performed at temperatures up to 40 °C. Furthermore, the rGO and rGO/PU coated fabrics show good comfort properties, increased thermal conductivity and breathability with respect to cotton. In particular, the realized coatings allow to confine the heat transfer in correspondence of a localized heating source, which is very interesting for thermal therapy applications. Finally, the rGO/PU coated fabrics present a piezoresistive behaviour characterized by very stable electrical response to applied stretching up to 50% deformation, high sensitivity especially at low deformations with gauge factor values up to 11.7 and fast response time down to 500 ms when stretched at 100 mm/min rate at 2.5% strain. Overall, the results demonstrate that rGO/PU coated fabrics are very promising wash-durable electrically conductive e-textiles with improved comfort, enhanced thermal conductivity for possible thermal therapy applications, and piezoresistive properties for sensing applications as human motion monitoring.
Theft of Gramsci? On the radical right, radical left, and common sense
Authors: Pasieka Agnieszka
Published: January 2023

Drawing on ethnographic research with radical right-wing activists in Italy and Poland, my article reflects on the ways in which the Gramscian framework may enhance our understanding of the present-day political landscape. Gramsci’s role in the article is threefold. First, since he was a keen observer of fascist developments, I relate his observations on fascism and inquire into their relevance for understanding the rise of the far right today. Second, I explore the agendas of the movements I studied through the Gramscian lens. Inspired by the special issue’s editors, I examine the extent to which Gramsci’s concept of “common sense” is helpful for analyzing contemporary far-right activism. Third, I relate my own ethnographic observation to analyses of a broader terrain of far-right politics to shed light on the phenomenon of “far-right Gramscianism.” Bringing together all these observations on the radical right, “common sense” and Gramsci’s legacy, I reflect on the complex interrelationship between the radical right and the radical left.
Active movement to coarse grained sediments by globally endangered freshwater pearl mussels (Margaritifera margaritifera)
Authors: Eissenhauer Felix , Grunicke Felix , Wagner Annekatrin , Linke Daniel , Kneis David , Weitere Markus , Berendonk Thomas U.
Published: January 2023

The freshwater pearl mussel Margaritifera margaritifera is an endangered bivalve which is usually regarded as sedentary, although individual movement has been observed both vertically and horizontally. Little is known about the causes and rates of mussel movement. The objective of this study was to test the effect of microhabitat characteristics on the horizontal movement distance and rates of freshwater pearl mussels. A total of 120 mussels (length range 40–59 mm) were marked individually with passive integrated transponder tags, placed in stream microhabitats differing in their sediment composition and monitored biweekly over a period of 10 weeks. Mussels situated in sand-dominated habitats had a significantly higher mean movement rate (3.2 ± 4.2 cm/day, mean ± SD) than mussels situated in gravel-dominated (1.9 ± 2.7 cm/day) or stone-dominated habitats (1.8 ± 3.2 cm/day). The direction of the movements appeared random; however, an emigration from sandy habitats was observed, probably to avoid dislodgment from these hydraulically unstable habitats. This study demonstrates that freshwater pearl mussels can actively emigrate from unsuitable microhabitats. Once suitable streams with respect to physical, chemical, and biological quality were identified, it is therefore only necessary to identify suitable mesohabitats (area of 10–30 m2) when reintroducing or relocating mussels.
The Learning Design & Course Creation Workshop: Impact of a Professional Development Model for Training Designers and Creators of Online and Distance Learning
Authors: Olney Tom , Rienties Bart , Chang Daphne , Banks Duncan
Published: January 2023

Higher education institutions are increasingly moving from traditional education approaches to incorporate online and distance learning (ODL) models, and this represents a substantial educational challenge for many educators. One way to support this challenge is by providing appropriate professional development (PD) for the design of ODL. Based on models from the Open University, UK this paper contends that PD for the design of ODL should align learning design frameworks with constructivist and student-focused pedagogies to manage the change to the professional teaching identities of participants that designing ODL represents. Robust professional identities are important for mitigating anxiety, embedding lasting change and leveraging the benefits of ODL for institutions and students. In this study, the rationale, model, and strategies of the Learning Design and Course Creation Workshop, based on current literature and participant feedback gathered immediately after instances of the PD was completed in China, are described. Evidence and examples of impact gathered from a second instrument, gathered after implementation, is also provided, and discussed in this context. The findings and conclusions will be of interest to those tasked with providing PD to support educators faced with rapid educational change, particularly as a response to the global demand for the design of ODL.
Deriving Large Coronal Magnetic Loop Parameters Using LOFAR J Burst Observations
Authors: Zhang Jinge , Reid Hamish A. S. , Krupar Vratislav , Zucca Pietro , Dabrowski Bartosz , Krankowski Andrzej
Published: January 2023

Large coronal loops around one solar radius in altitude are an important connection between the solar wind and the low solar corona. However, their plasma properties are ill-defined, as standard X-ray and UV techniques are not suited to these low-density environments. Diagnostics from type J solar radio bursts at frequencies above 10 MHz are ideally suited to understand these coronal loops. Despite this, J-bursts are less frequently studied than their type III cousins, in part because the curvature of the coronal loop makes them unsuited for using standard coronal density models. We used LOw-Frequency-ARray (LOFAR) and Parker Solar Probe (PSP) solar radio dynamic spectrum to identify 27 type III bursts and 27 J-bursts during a solar radio noise storm observed on 10 April 2019. We found that their exciter velocities were similar, implying a common acceleration region that injects electrons along open and closed magnetic structures. We describe a novel technique to estimate the density model in coronal loops from J-burst dynamic spectra, finding typical loop apex altitudes around 1.3 solar radius. At this altitude, the average scale heights were 0.36 solar radius, the average temperature was around 1 MK, the average pressure was $0.7~\text{mdyn}\,\text{cm}^{-2}$
0.7

mdyn

cm

−
2

, and the average minimum magnetic field strength was 0.13 G. We discuss how these parameters compare with much smaller coronal loops.
A Millian Case for Censoring Vaccine Misinformation
Authors: Saunders Ben
Published: January 2023

The spread of vaccine misinformation may contribute to vaccine refusal/hesitancy and consequent harms. Nonetheless, censorship is often rejected on the grounds of free expression. This article examines John Stuart Mill’s influential defence of free expression but finds that his arguments for freedom apply only to normal, reasonably favourable circumstances. In other cases, it may be permissible to restrict freedom, including freedom of speech. Thus, while Mill would ordinarily defend the right to express false views, such as that vaccines cause autism, he might have accepted restrictions on anti-vaccine misinformation during the present pandemic. This illustrates that even the staunchest defenders of free speech can permit temporary restrictions in exceptional circumstances.
COVID-19 Health Passes: Practical and Ethical Issues
Authors: Ortiz-Millán Gustavo
Published: January 2023

Several countries have implemented COVID-19 health passes or certificates to promote a safer return to in-person social activities. These passes have been proposed as a way to prove that someone has been vaccinated, has recovered from the disease, or has negative results on a diagnostic test. However, many people have questioned their ethical justification. This article presents some practical and ethical problems to consider in the event of wishing to implement these passes. Among the former, it is questioned how accurate diagnostic tests are as a means of ensuring that a person is not contagious, whether vaccination guarantees immunity, the fact that health passes can be forged, whether they encourage vaccination, and the problem that there is no universally recognized health pass. Among the ethical issues, it is discussed whether health passes promote discrimination and inequality and whether they violate rights to privacy and freedom. It is concluded that health passes have enough ethical justification to be implemented.