bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Slab–column connection punching and ductility improvement methods for seismic response of buildings with flat slabs
Authors: Isufi Brisid , Almeida André , Marreiros Rui , Ramos António Pinho , Lúcio Válter
Published: April 2022

Replicating boundary conditions of slab–column connections under seismic loading in a realistic manner is difficult, and different test setups have been used throughout the years. An innovative test setup has been developed at NOVA School of Science and Technology, and it has been used to test various punching shear behavior enhancement methods, including stirrups, headed studs, fiber‐reinforced concrete (FRC), high‐strength concrete (HSC), and post‐installed bolts under similar conditions. The aim of this paper is to compare the results from these different solutions for seismic loading. It is shown that relatively large drift ratios at failure can be achieved in slabs containing shear reinforcement. However, less conventional methods such as FRC and HSC are shown to be promising alternatives. Compared to reference specimens that failed at 1% drift, the other specimens with various enhancement methods achieved significantly higher drifts, ranging from 2.5% to above 6.0%.
Axial behavior of RC column strengthened with laterally reinforced FRHPC jacket
Authors: Lu Chun‐Ling , Ouyang Kang , Wang Qiang , Zhu Wan‐Xu , Chen Hou‐Qiong , Lei Zhen‐Xin , Qin Zong‐Jian
Published: April 2022

This paper is aimed to examine the axial compression performance of reinforced concrete (RC) base column specimens strengthened by fiber‐reinforced high‐performance concrete (FRHPC) jackets using the enlarged cross‐section method. For this purpose, the axial compression performance test is performed on one un‐strengthened column and four strengthened columns to assess the effects of FRHPC jacket thickness, whether the jacket was configured with stirrup and the spacing of stirrup were considered. Based on the theory of confined concrete and the FRHPC principal structure relationship, a theoretical calculation model is also established to explore the axial load‐carrying capacity of the columns. The test results indicate that an increase of the cross‐sectional reinforcement of the FRHPC jacket can enhance the axial compression load capacity and ductility of the columns. Furthermore, an increase in the FRHPC jacket thickness leads to the growth of the load capacity; however, there is no significant increase on the ground of its ductility. The addition of stirrup in the FRHPC jacket can improve both load capacity and ductility of the columns such that the smaller the spacing of the stirrup, the greater the increase of both load capacity and ductility. The predicted results by the proposed model are in good agreement with those of the tests.
Early elementary (K‐4) teachers' perceptions of the developmental appropriateness, importance, and potential for classroom inclusion of key nature of science aspects
Authors: Sweeney Sophia J. , McComas William F.
Published: April 2022

National science reform documents recommend several nature of science (NOS) elements to introduce to children early in the science curriculum. A researcher developed questionnaire was used to gather information from a random, national sample about early elementary teachers' perceptions of the developmental appropriateness of 12 NOS aspects for the grade level taught, ratings of the importance of the NOS elements in the K‐4 curriculum, and the teachers' self‐reported introduction of the NOS elements during the school year. Binary logistic regression was used to determine if the teachers' introduction of the NOS aspects could be predicted from their perceptions of developmental appropriateness and importance. At least 90% of teachers identified the inferential, empirical, and creative aspects as developmentally appropriate; over half identified another six NOS aspects asimportantorvery important. At least half of the 377 respondents reported classroom introduction of the inferential, empirical, creative, collaborative, tentative, and cultural NOS elements, as well as the idea that no single step‐by‐step scientific method exists. Developmental appropriateness was a significant predictor of teachers' self‐reported introduction for nine of the 12 NOS, and importance was a significant predictor for all 12 NOS elements. The implications of this study for science education are discussed.
Enacting a Permeable Curriculum: Language Inquiry with Popular Music
Authors: Sherbine Kortney
Published: April 2022

In this teaching tip, I describe how students in my second grade classroom and I developed a curricular structure called Monday Music that involved reading, singing, the study of grammar conventions in the English language, and critical conversations about popular music. Drawing on Dyson's conceptualization of the permeable curriculum, I offer suggestions for teachers who are interested in getting to know more about their students' interests and experiences out of school and are seeking ways to amplify those interests and experiences in the classroom in meaningful ways.
Creating law to seek information and protect the public
Authors: Rainsberger Richard
Published: April 2022

§99.31 Under what conditions is prior consent not required to disclose information?
‘Scare the bear’ by heeding guidance to address workplace bullying
Authors: Hodges Dawn Z.
Published: April 2022

Not long ago, I had lunch with a former colleague. She was recounting an incident that happened at her vacation home in Florida when she was cooking a rather fragrant meal. She looked out on the patio to see a black bear tear through the screen and come look in her back door. She called animal control. They said they don't relocate the bears because “they don't do well in the wild.” So, what was she to do? “Scare the bear,” they told her.
Take steps to prevent violations and lawsuits related to wage‐and‐hour requirements
Authors: O'Brien Timothy
Published: April 2022

One common thread that runs through almost every higher ed department is that the entire operation requires long and irregular hours, extending from the traditional workday into nights and weekends. The collective commitment of all employees to do their respective part enables each department to accomplish its varied missions. This approach is often demonstrated by the willingness of dedicated employees to work long hours well in excess of 40 hours per week. Although that commitment of extra time and effort is acceptable for many employees within the department who are considered exempt from wage‐related overtime payment obligations, higher ed administrators must tread carefully regarding expecting any additional time or effort from nonexempt hourly staff. One university recently learned this lesson the hard way.
Structural imaging findings are related to clinical complications in chronic pancreatitis
Authors: Nordaas Ingrid Kvåle , Tjora Erling , Dimcevski Georg , Haldorsen Ingfrid S. , Olesen Søren Schou , Drewes Asbjørn Mohr , Zviniene Kristina , Barauskas Giedrius , Bayram Berivan Kyed , Nørregaard Peter , Borch Anders , Nøjgaard Camilla , Jensen Annette Bøjer , Kardasheva Svetlana S. , Okhlobystin Alexey , Hauge Truls , Waage Anne , Frøkjær Jens Brøndum , Engjom Trond ,   Scandinavian Baltic Pancreatic Club
Published: April 2022

Background/objectives

Structural pancreatic changes and complications related to chronic pancreatitis are well described, but little is known about their relationship. We aimed to explore the associations between pancreatic morphology and clinical complications in a large chronic pancreatitis cohort.

Methods

The Scandinavian Baltic Pancreatic Club database collects registrations on patients with definite or probable chronic pancreatitis according to the M‐ANNHEIM diagnostic criteria. In this cross‐sectional study, we used multivariate logistic regression analyses to evaluate whether imaging‐based structural pancreatic changes were associated with common clinical complications. We adjusted for sex, age, disease duration, current alcohol abuse and current smoking.

Results

We included 742 patients with a mean age of 55 years. Among these, 68% were males, 69% had pancreatic exocrine insufficiency, 35% had diabetes, 12% were underweighted and 68% reported abdominal pain. Main pancreatic duct obstruction, severe (i.e. more than 14) calcifications, pancreatic atrophy and parenchymal changes throughout the entire pancreas (continuous organ involvement) were positively associated with pancreatic exocrine insufficiency. Continuous organ involvement and pseudocysts were positively and negatively associated with diabetes, respectively. Pancreatic atrophy and severe calcifications were positively associated with underweight, and severe calcifications were negatively associated with pain.

Conclusions

This study shows independent associations between distinct structural changes on pancreatic imaging and clinical complications in chronic pancreatitis. Pancreatic atrophy, severe calcifications and continuous organ involvement may be of particular clinical relevance, and these findings should motivate monitoring of pancreatic function and nutritional status.
Diagnostic yield using whole‐genome sequencing and in‐silico panel of 281 genes associated with non‐immune hydrops fetalis in clinical setting
Authors: Westenius E. , Sahlin E. , Conner P. , Lindstrand A. , Iwarsson E.
Published: April 2022

Objective

To investigate the diagnostic yield of clinical whole‐genome sequencing (WGS) in prenatally diagnosed non‐immune hydrops fetalis (NIHF).

Methods

This was a retrospective study of 23 fetuses with prenatally diagnosed NIHF, negative for trisomies and copy‐number variants, referred for analysis by WGS with an in‐silico panel of 281 genes associated with hydrops fetalis. Due to identification of a high proportion of causative variants in the HRAS gene in the main cohort, Sanger sequencing of HRAS was performed in a replication cohort, consisting of 24 additional fetuses with NIHF that were negative for trisomies and copy‐number variants and had not undergone WGS.

Results

Of the 23 fetuses in the main cohort, a molecular diagnosis was achieved in 12 (52.2%). Pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants were identified in seven genes: HRAS (n = 5), RIT1 (n = 2), FOXP3 (n = 1), GLB1 (n = 1), MAP2K1 (n = 1), PTPN11 (n = 1) and RASA1 (n = 1). The inheritance pattern of the 12 causative variants was autosomal dominant in 10 cases (HRAS, MAP2K1, PTPN11, RASA1, RIT1), autosomal recessive in one (GLB1) and X‐linked recessive in one (FOXP3). Of the 24 fetuses in the replication cohort, a pathogenic variant in HRAS was identified in one, resulting in an overall frequency of causative HRAS variants of 12.8% (6/47) in our two cohorts.

Conclusions

We demonstrate a diagnostic yield of 52% with clinical WGS in NIHF using an in‐silico panel of 281 genes. However, the high diagnostic yield may be attributed to the small sample size and possible over‐representation of severe phenotypes in the included fetuses. Bearing in mind that chromosomal abnormalities were excluded in our cohorts, a detection rate of up to 75% is possible in prenatally diagnosed NIHF when WGS analysis includes calling of chromosomal aberrations. © 2022 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Informal Learning in Digital Contexts
Authors: Dron Jon , Anderson Terry
Published: April 2022

Governments, business leaders, educators, students, and parents realize the need to inculcate a culture of lifelong learning – learning that spans geography, time, and lifespan. This learning has both formal and informal components. In this chapter, we examine the conceptual basis upon which informal learning is defined and some of the tools and techniques used to support informal learning. We overview the rapid development in information and communications technologies that not only creates opportunities for learners, teachers, and researchers but also challenges us to create equitable and culturally appropriate tools and contexts in which high-quality, continuous learning is available to all.
Pedagogical Paradigms in Open and Distance Education
Authors: Dron Jon , Anderson Terry
Published: April 2022

Building on earlier work that identified historical paradigm shifts in open and distance learning, this chapter is concerned with analyzing the three broad pedagogical paradigms – objectivist, subjectivist, and complexivist – that have characterized learning and teaching in the field over the past half century. It goes on to discuss new paradigms that are starting to emerge, most notably in “theory-free” models enabled by developments in artificial intelligence and analytics, hologogic methods that recognize the many cultures to which we belong, and a “bricolagogic,” theory-agnostic paradigm that reflects the field’s growing maturity and depth.
Analytic resurgence in the O(4) model
Authors: Bajnok Zoltán , Balog János , Vona István
Published: April 2022

Abstract

We study the perturbative expansion of the ground state energy in the presence of an external field coupled to a conserved charge in the integrable two-dimensional O(4) nonlinear sigma model. By solving Volin’s algebraic equations for the perturbative coefficients we study the large order asymptotic behaviour of the perturbative series analytically. We confirm the previously numerically found leading behaviour and study the nearest singularities of the Borel transformed series and the associated alien derivatives. We find a “resurgence” behaviour: the leading alien derivatives can be expressed in terms of the original perturbative series. A simplified ‘toy’ model is also considered: here the perturbative series can be found in a closed form and the resurgence properties are very similar to that found in the real problem.
Rapid shear stress-dependent ENaC membrane insertion is mediated by the endothelial glycocalyx and the mineralocorticoid receptor
Authors: Cosgun Zülfü C. , Sternak Magdalena , Fels Benedikt , Bar Anna , Kwiatkowski Grzegorz , Pacia Marta Z. , Herrnböck Lisbeth , Lindemann Martina , Stegbauer Johannes , Höges Sascha , Chlopicki Stefan , Kusche-Vihrog Kristina
Published: April 2022

The contribution of the shear stress-sensitive epithelial Na+ channel (ENaC) to the mechanical properties of the endothelial cell surface under (patho)physiological conditions is unclear. This issue was addressed in in vivo and in vitro models for endothelial dysfunction. Cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) were exposed to laminar (LSS) or non-laminar shear stress (NLSS). ENaC membrane insertion was quantified using Quantum-dot-based immunofluorescence staining and the mechanical properties of the cell surface were probed with the Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) in vitro and ex vivo in isolated aortae of C57BL/6 and ApoE/LDLR-/- mice. Flow- and acetylcholine-mediated vasodilation was measured in vivo using magnetic resonance imaging. Acute LSS led to a rapid mineralocorticoid receptor (MR)-dependent membrane insertion of ENaC and subsequent stiffening of the endothelial cortex caused by actin polymerization. Of note, NLSS stress further augmented the cortical stiffness of the cells. These effects strongly depend on the presence of the endothelial glycocalyx (eGC) and could be prevented by functional inhibition of ENaC and MR in vitro endothelial cells and ex vivo endothelial cells derived from C57BL/6, but not ApoE/LDLR-/- vessel. In vivo In C57BL/6 vessels, ENaC- and MR inhibition blunted flow- and acetylcholine-mediated vasodilation, while in the dysfunctional ApoE/LDLR-/- vessels, this effect was absent. In conclusion, under physiological conditions, endothelial ENaC, together with the glycocalyx, was identified as an important shear stress sensor and mediator of endothelium-dependent vasodilation. In contrast, in pathophysiological conditions, ENaC-mediated mechanotransduction and endothelium-dependent vasodilation were lost, contributing to sustained endothelial stiffening and dysfunction.
MALL, a membrane-tetra-spanning proteolipid overexpressed in cancer, is present in membraneless nuclear biomolecular condensates
Authors: Rubio-Ramos Armando , Bernabé-Rubio Miguel , Labat-de-Hoz Leticia , Casares-Arias Javier , Kremer Leonor , Correas Isabel , Alonso Miguel A.
Published: April 2022

Proteolipids are proteins with unusual lipid-like properties. It has long been established that PLP and plasmolipin, which are two unrelated membrane-tetra-spanning myelin proteolipids, can be converted in vitro into a water-soluble form with a distinct conformation, raising the question of whether these, or other similar proteolipids, can adopt two different conformations in the cell to adapt their structure to distinct environments. Here, we show that MALL, another proteolipid with a membrane-tetra-spanning structure, distributes in membranes outside the nucleus and, within the nucleus, in membrane-less, liquid-like PML body biomolecular condensates. Detection of MALL in one or other environment was strictly dependent on the method of cell fixation used, suggesting that MALL adopts different conformations depending on its physical environment —lipidic or aqueous— in the cell. The acquisition of the condensate-compatible conformation requires PML expression. Excess MALL perturbed the distribution of the inner nuclear membrane proteins emerin and LAP2β, and that of the DNA-binding protein BAF, leading to the formation of aberrant nuclei. This effect, which is consistent with studies identifying overexpressed MALL as an unfavorable prognostic factor in cancer, could contribute to cell malignancy. Our study establishes a link between proteolipids, membranes and biomolecular condensates, with potential biomedical implications.
Localisation and Delocalisation for a Simple Quantum Wave Guide with Randomness
Authors: Kirsch Werner , Krishna M.
Published: April 2022

In this paper, we consider Schrödinger operators on $$M\times {\mathbb {Z}}^{d_{2}}$$

M
×

Z

d
2

, with $$M=\{M_{1},\ldots ,M_{2}\}^{d_{1}}$$

M
=

{

M
1

,
…
,

M
2

}

d
1

(‘quantum wave guides’) with a ‘$$\Gamma $$
Γ
-trimmed’ random potential, namely a potential which vanishes outside a subset $$\Gamma $$
Γ
which is periodic with respect to a sub-lattice. We prove that (under appropriate assumptions) for strong disorder these operators have pure point spectrum outside the set $$\Sigma _{0}=\sigma (H_{0,\Gamma ^{c}})$$

Σ
0

=
σ

(

H

0
,

Γ
c

)

where $$H_{0,\Gamma ^{c}} $$

H

0
,

Γ
c

is the free (discrete) Laplacian on the complement $$\Gamma ^{c} $$

Γ
c

of $$\Gamma $$
Γ
. We also prove that the operators have some absolutely continuous spectrum in an energy region $${\mathcal {E}}\subset \Sigma _{0}$$

E
⊂

Σ
0

. Consequently, there is a mobility edge for such models. We also consider the case $$-M_{1}=M_{2}=\infty $$

-

M
1

=

M
2

=
∞

, i.e.  $$\Gamma $$
Γ
-trimmed operators on $${\mathbb {Z}}^{d}={\mathbb {Z}}^{d_{1}}\times {\mathbb {Z}}^{d_{2}}$$

Z

d

=

Z

d
1

×

Z

d
2

. Again, we prove localisation outside $$\Sigma _{0} $$

Σ
0

by showing exponential decay of the Green function $$G_{E+i\eta }(x,y) $$

G

E
+
i
η

(
x
,
y
)

uniformly in $$\eta >0 $$

η
>
0

. For all energies $$E\in {\mathcal {E}}$$

E
∈
E

we prove that the Green’s function $$G_{E+i\eta } $$

G

E
+
i
η

is not (uniformly) in $$\ell ^{1}$$

ℓ
1

as $$\eta $$
η
approaches 0. This implies that neither the fractional moment method nor multi-scale analysis can be applied here.
Crop coefficients and water use of young almond orchards
Authors: Drechsler Kelley , Fulton Allan , Kisekka Isaya
Published: April 2022

An observational study was conducted in the northern Sacramento Valley in California, United States to determine crop water use and crop coefficients of three adjacent young Nonpareil/Monterey almond orchards. Methods used to quantify evapotranspiration estimates of crop water use include (1) a soil water balance and (2) a land surface energy balance using eddy covariance. Three adjacent almond orchards that were planted in 2016, 2017, and 2018 were monitored from 2018 to 2020. Actual crop coefficients were determined using actual evapotranspiration estimates from each orchard and short grass reference evapotranspiration from the Gerber South California Irrigation Management Information System station. Results showed that crop water use and crop coefficients increased until the 4th year, indicating the need to closely consider tree development and orchard age as factors in irrigation scheduling of young almond trees. The results led to the conclusion that farmers should use development or age-specific crop coefficients in developing orchards for irrigation scheduling until the 4th year when they can start using mature almond crop coefficients. The mid-season actual crop coefficients were 0.35, 0.55, 0.88, 1.04, and 0.99 for 1-, 2-, 3-, 4-, and 5-year-old almond orchards. This study has generated baseline data on crop water requirements of young almond orchards that could be useful for (1) developing irrigation scheduling tools for young almond orchards, and (2) determining water budgets for areas with new almond orchards.
Beschleunigung, Resonanz und Achtsamkeit
Authors: Michalak Johannes , Nething Emily , Heidenreich Thomas
Published: April 2022

Hintergrund

Gemäß der Zeitdiagnose des Soziologen Hartmut Rosa ist die Zeitstruktur moderner Gesellschaften durch Beschleunigung und Entfremdung charakterisiert. Für Rosa besteht ein Gegenentwurf hierzu im Aufbau resonanter Weltbeziehungen. Aus Sicht der Autoren lassen sich interessante Bezüge zwischen Resonanz und Achtsamkeit herstellen. Rosa jedoch hat die „Nutzung“ von Achtsamkeit in modernen westlichen Gesellschaften einer Kritik unterzogen.

Ziel der Arbeit

Darstellung von Rosas Konzepten „Beschleunigung“ und „Resonanz“ und Diskussion seiner wichtigsten Kritikpunkte an Achtsamkeit.

Material und Methode

Es werden die zentralen Ideen von Rosas Büchern zu Beschleunigung und Resonanz vorgestellt. Darüber hinaus werden einige der von Rosa in einem Vortrag genannten Kritikpunkte an Achtsamkeit diskutiert.

Ergebnisse und Diskussion

Das von Rosa dargestellte Resonanzkonzept erscheint auch an eine klinisch-psychologische und psychotherapeutische Perspektive anschlussfähig. Rosas Kritik an Achtsamkeit scheint v. a. bezüglich der „Nutzung“ von Achtsamkeit in modernen westlichen Gesellschaften zuzutreffen. Bezüglich anderer Aspekte dürfte seine Kritik jedoch teilweise auf einem verkürzten Verständnis von Achtsamkeit oder unterschiedlichen Schwerpunktsetzungen des Resonanzkonzepts und Achtsamkeit beruhen.
Analgetische Placeboeffekte und Implikationen für die Behandlung chronischer Schmerzen
Authors: Schwartz M. , Klinger R.
Published: April 2022

Die Behandlung von chronischen Schmerzen kann langwierig sein. Erste Ansätze zur Nutzung von Placeboeffekten bei der Behandlung von chronischen Schmerzen zeigen erfolgversprechende Ergebnisse und können dazu beitragen, die z. T. frustranen Therapieoptionen zu verbessern. Daher sollten Placeboeffekte zur verbesserten Behandlung genutzt werden. Im derzeitigen Modell zur Entstehung von Placeboeffekten spielt die Erwartung eine zentrale Rolle. Eine positive oder negative Erwartung wird durch psychologische und biologische „State“- und „Trait“-Faktoren der Patient:innen sowie die früheren Lernerfahrungen, die der:die Patient:in mitbringt, beeinflusst. Aus diesem Modell ergeben sich Implikationen für die klinische Praxis: Positive Erwartungen sollten unterstützt werden, wobei unrealistische Erwartungen wiederum den Placeboeffekt reduzieren. Negative Erwartungen sollten kritisch diskutiert werden. Es sollte im interdisziplinären Team eine gemeinsame Botschaft an die Patient:innen vermittelt werden. Open-Label-Placebos können als Intervention genutzt werden, um die Selbstwirksamkeit zu steigern.
Fiber Composition in Sows’ Diets Modifies Clostridioides difficile Colonization in Their Offspring
Authors: Grześkowiak Łukasz , Saliu Eva-Maria , Martínez-Vallespín Beatriz , Wessels Anna Grete , Männer Klaus , Vahjen Wilfried , Zentek Jürgen
Published: April 2022

Dietary fiber has a potential to modulate the gut microbiota in sows. We hypothesized that a maternal diet rich in either high- or low-fermentable fiber during gestation and lactation influences Clostridioides difficile gut colonization in suckling piglets. Twenty sows were fed gestation and lactation diets enriched with either high-fermentable sugar beet pulp (SBP) or low-fermentable lignocellulose (LNC) fibers. C. difficile, toxin B (TcdB), fecal score, microbial abundance (16S-rDNA sequencing) and metabolites were measured in the feces from the sows and their piglets. C. difficile concentration was higher in piglets from the sows fed LNC than SBP along the study (P ≤ 0.05). Higher prevalence of C. difficile was noted in three-week-old piglets from sows fed LNC vs. SBP (45% vs. 0%, P = 0.001). TcdB prevalence was higher in six-day-old piglets from the sows fed LNC vs. SBP (60% vs. 17%, P = 0.009). In sows, fecal microbial metabolites were higher in SBP than LNC, while C. difficile concentration showed no difference. Higher microbial diversity Shannon index was noted in sows from SBP vs. LNC one week before parturition and at the parturition (P ≤ 0.05). Piglets from SBP vs. LNC tended to have higher microbial diversity Shannon index at two and three weeks of age. Diets enriched with high-fermentable fiber compared to low-fermentable fiber in sows reduced C. difficile colonization in their piglets. Susceptibility to colonization by C. difficile in neonatal piglets can be modulated by the sows’ diet, supporting the hypothesis of the early microbial programming in the offspring and the importance of the sow-piglet couple.
FSFI score and timing of tubal ligation in patients: preliminary results of an online survey
Authors: Walter Steffen , Upadhjay Mirjam , Beslic Jelena , Pucher Martin , Herbel Rebecca , Stavroula Stavrou , Dayan Davud , Janni Wolfgang , Ebner Florian
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Tubal ligation is the most common contraceptive method worldwide. Apart from a very low pearl index and anxiety relief, other benefits are not commonly recognised. In young patients, there is the post-operative risk of regretting the decision with the need for In-Vitro-Fertilisation or refertilising surgery. Positive side effects have not been widely published. In our study we investigated the change in the female sexual function index score after tubal ligation.

Material and method

In this survey the FSFI score of participants around the time of the tubal ligation was compared with the FSFI score of intermediate and long-term time distance to the ligation.

Results

The data indicate an increase in younger women seeking information on permanent contraception and whilst the FSFI score of the early group indicates a risk of female sexual dysfunction, the intermediate and long-term FSFI scores are comparable to published control groups.

Discussion

Besides the obvious benefit of a low pearl index, tubal ligation may contribute to reduce the risk of female sexual dysfunction in the mid and long term. Informed consent is essential for the surgeon and patient to weigh up the risks and benefits individually including possible future perspectives on family planning.
The INVEST trial: a randomised feasibility trial of psychologically informed vestibular rehabilitation versus current gold standard physiotherapy for people with Persistent Postural Perceptual Dizziness
Authors: Herdman David , Norton Sam , Murdin Louisa , Frost Kate , Pavlou Marousa , Moss-Morris Rona
Published: April 2022

Background

Persistent postural perceptual dizziness (PPPD) is a common and disabling functional neuro-vestibular disorder. We aimed to determine the feasibility and acceptability of conducting a randomised controlled trial of cognitive-behavioural therapy informed vestibular rehabilitation (INVEST intervention) designed for persistent dizziness.

Methods

A two-armed parallel groups randomised feasibility study of INVEST vs. a time-matched gold standard vestibular rehabilitation (VRT) control. Participants with PPPD were recruited from a specialist vestibular clinic in London, UK. Participants were individually randomised using a minimisation procedure with allocation concealment. Measures of feasibility and clinical outcome were collected and assessed at 4 months.

Results

Forty adults with PPPD were randomised to six sessions of INVEST (n = 20) or gold standard VRT (n = 20). Overall, 59% of patients screened met the inclusion criteria, of which 80% enrolled. Acceptability of INVEST, as assessed against the theoretical framework of acceptability (TFA), was excellent and 80% adhered to all 6 sessions. There were small to moderate treatment effects in favour of INVEST across all measures, including dizziness handicap, negative illness perceptions, symptom focussing, fear avoidance, and distress (standardised mean difference [SMD]g = 0.45; SMDg = 0.77; SMDg = 0.56; SMDg = 0.50, respectively). No intervention-related serious adverse events were reported.

Conclusions

The study results give strong support for the feasibility of a full-scale trial. Both arms had high rates of recruitment, retention, and acceptability. There was promising support of the benefits of integrated cognitive-behavioural therapy-based vestibular rehabilitation compared to gold standard vestibular rehabilitation. The study fulfilled all the a-priori criteria to advance to a full-scale efficacy trial.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN10420559.
On dynamic modeling of piezomagnetic/flexomagnetic microstructures based on Lord–Shulman thermoelastic model
Authors: Malikan Mohammad , Eremeyev Victor A.
Published: April 2022

We study a time-dependent thermoelastic coupling within free vibrations of piezomagnetic (PM) microbeams considering the flexomagnetic (FM) phenomenon. The flexomagneticity relates to a magnetic field with a gradient of strains. Here, we use the generalized thermoelasticity theory of Lord–Shulman to analyze the interaction between elastic deformation and thermal conductivity. The uniform magnetic field is permeated in line with the transverse axis. Using the strain gradient approach, the beam yields microstructural properties. The analytical solving process has been gotten via applying sine Fourier technique on displacements. Graphical illustrations are assigned to shape numerical examples concerning variations in essential physical quantities. It was observed that the flexomagnetic effect could be extraordinary if the thermal conductivity of the material is higher or the thermal relaxation time of the heat source is lesser. This theoretical study will provide the way of starting studies on magneto-thermoelastic small-scale piezo-flexomagnetic structures based on the heat conduction models.
Liquid adsorption and immersion of two alcohol–water mixtures on carbon molecular sieves
Authors: Klauck Mandy , Guhlmann Jonas , Hähnel Thomas , Hauser Matthias , Kalies Grit
Published: April 2022

The adsorption excess isotherms of ethanol–water and propanol–water mixtures are studied on a series of carbon molecular sieves with well-separated micro- and mesoporosity at 298.15 K. The preferential adsorption of one component from a mixture is measured by using vibration densitometry for the concentration analysis. Microcalorimetrically measured enthalpies, which are released upon immersion of the carbon materials in the binary mixtures, complement the adsorption excess data. It is shown that (i) density measurements are well applicable for studying liquid-phase adsorption, (ii) liquid-adsorption isotherms are sensitive to smallest chain length differences of the adsorptives, (iii) the calculated separation diagrams depend strongly on the assumptions about the adsorbed phase, and (iv) the combined determination of gas, vapor and liquid adsorption isotherms and immersion enthalpies offers advantages for the analysis of complex adsorption systems.
Minnow introductions in mountain lakes result in lower salmonid densities
Authors: Tiberti Rocco , Buchaca Teresa , Cruset Tonietti Eloi , Iacobelli Laura , Maini Melissa , Ribelli Fabio , Pou Rovira Quim , Ventura Marc
Published: April 2022

Small fish species such as minnows (Phoxinus sp.) are introduced into mountain lakes by anglers that use them as live bait for fishing salmonids that were previously introduced in these naturally fishless habitats. Introduced fish severely impact native biota but minnows are nevertheless released believing to provide forage for game fish, i.e., salmonids. However, our results indicate that minnows negatively interact with game fish, reducing their relative densities. On some occasions, minnows can remain the only present fish following trout extinction. We believe that this information should be urgently disseminated among anglers as a pragmatic argument to also convince anglers less sensitive to conservation issues that carrying minnows to the mountains is not a good idea whatever the main interest is, e.g., nature conservation or outdoor recreation.
Personal Finance Decisions with Untruthful Advisors: An Agent-Based Model
Authors: Mastroeni Loretta , Naldi Maurizio , Vellucci Pierluigi
Published: April 2022

Investors usually resort to financial advisors to improve their investment process until the point of complete delegation on investment decisions. Surely, financial advice is potentially a correcting factor in investment decisions but, in the past, the media and regulators blamed biased advisors for manipulating the expectations of naive investors. In order to give an analytic formulation of the problem, we present an Agent-Based Model formed by individual investors and a financial advisor. We parametrize the games by considering a compromise for the financial advisor (between a sufficient reward by bank and to keep her reputation), and a compromise for the customers (between the desired return and the proposed return by advisor), and incorporating the social psychological concepts of truthfulness and cognitive dissonance. Then we obtain the Nash equilibria and the best response functions of the resulting game. We also describe the parameter regions in which these points result acceptable equilibria. In this way, the greediness/naivety of the customers emerge naturally from the model. Finally, we focus on the efficiency of the best Nash equilibrium.
Advanced dynamic nonlinear schemes for geotechnical earthquake engineering applications: a review of critical aspects
Authors: Elia Gaetano , Rouainia Mohamed
Published: April 2022

Nonlinear time domain numerical approaches together with elasto-plastic effective stress soil constitutive models are nowadays available to geotechnical researchers and practitioners interested in geotechnical earthquake engineering. The use of such advanced two- and three-dimensional schemes allows the analysis and design of complex geotechnical structures within a performance-based framework, considering the build-up of excess pore water pressure during the earthquake, dynamic interaction between the soil deposit and the above surface buildings and infrastructures and effects of multi-directional seismic loading. Within this context, the paper focuses on the dynamic finite element (FE) method and presents a review of the key ingredients governing its predictive capabilities. These include i) the description of the fully coupled solid–fluid interaction formulation and time integration, ii) the calibration of Rayleigh damping and the soil constitutive model parameters, iii) prescription of the boundary conditions for the generated mesh and iv) input motion selection/scaling strategies. For each of the above points, the paper summarises the current knowledge and best practice, with the aim of providing protocols for a confident application of nonlinear FE schemes to evaluate the performance of critical geotechnical infrastructures. Useful hints to promote familiarity of advanced nonlinear soil dynamic analysis among geotechnical practitioners and to indicate areas for further improvement are also highlighted.
Bearing Capacity of Ring Foundations on Anisotropic and Heterogenous Clays: FEA, NGI-ADP, and MARS
Authors: Lai Van Qui , Shiau Jim , Keawsawasvong Suraparb , Tran Duy Tan
Published: April 2022

Axisymmetric solutions for the bearing capacity of ring foundation resting on anisotropic and heterogenous clays are presented in this paper using finite element analysis (FEA). The NGI-ADP model in PLAXIS FEA, a widely used anisotropic soil model, is adopted to study the stability responses of ring foundations, with special consideration given to the effects of increasing undrained shear strength with the depth. Numerical results are formulated in terms of a dimensionless stability number (bearing capacity ratio) that is a function of three dimensionless input parameters: namely, the ratio of inner and outer radius, the increasing strength gradient ratio, and the anisotropic shear strength ratio. The influence of each dimensionless input parameter on the bearing capacity ratio is investigated using design charts and failure mechanisms, and they are scored by relative importance indexes in multivariate adaptive regression splines (MARS) model—a machine learning approach. A highly accurate equation generated from the MARS model is proposed as an effective tool for engineering practitioners.
A family of horizon-penetrating coordinate systems for the Schwarzschild black hole geometry with Cauchy temporal functions
Authors: Röken Christian
Published: April 2022

We introduce a new family of horizon-penetrating coordinate systems for the Schwarzschild black hole geometry that feature time coordinates, which are specific Cauchy temporal functions, i.e., the level sets of these time coordinates are smooth, asymptotically flat, spacelike Cauchy hypersurfaces. Coordinate systems of this kind are well suited for the study of the temporal evolution of matter and radiation fields in the joined exterior and interior regions of the Schwarzschild black hole geometry, whereas the associated foliations can be employed as initial data sets for the globally hyperbolic development under the Einstein flow. For their construction, we formulate an explicit method that utilizes the geometry of—and structures inherent in—the Penrose diagram of the Schwarzschild black hole geometry, thus relying on the corresponding metrical product structure. As an example, we consider an integrated algebraic sigmoid function as the basis for the determination of such a coordinate system. Finally, we generalize our results to the Reissner–Nordström black hole geometry up to the Cauchy horizon. The geometric construction procedure presented here can be adapted to yield similar coordinate systems for various other spacetimes with the same metrical product structure.
Autonomic responses during Gambling: the Effect of Outcome Type and Sex in a large community sample of young adults
Authors: Hultman Cathrine , Vadlin Sofia , Rehn Mattias , Sescousse Guillaume , Nilsson Kent W , Åslund Cecilia
Published: April 2022

Psychological theories consider autonomic arousal to be a reinforcer for problem gambling. Structural characteristics such as near-misses, which are non-win events that come close to a real win, have been shown to elicit win-like responses while increasing motivation and gambling persistence. This study investigated the autonomic and subjective responses of young adults to different gambling outcomes. This study also investigated sex differences in autonomic and subjective responses to different gambling outcomes.

Participants from Sweden (n = 270) performed a computerized slot machine task that produced wins, near-misses (before and after payline) and full-misses. Phasic measurements of heart rate (HR) and skin conductance responses (SCR) were recorded during gambling performance and ratings of perceived chance of winning, pleasure and motivation to play were collected following each gambling outcome.

Autonomic responses differed across slot machine outcomes as indicated by HR and SCR. Compared with other gambling outcomes, near-misses elicited the largest HR accelerations, and they also elicited larger HR decelerations and SCRs relative to full-misses. Near-misses before and after payline elicited differential psychophysiological responses and subjective reports, suggesting different emotional processing of near-miss subtypes. Females showed increased SCRs and motivation following win outcomes compared with males.

In conclusion, wins, near-misses and full-misses generate differential physiological and subjective responses among young adults. Autonomic responses to wins differed between male and female players, emphasizing the need to consider sex differences when investigating the role of autonomic arousal in gambling.
Retraction Stigma and its Communication via Retraction Notices
Authors: Xu Shaoxiong Brian , Hu Guangwei
Published: April 2022

Retraction of published research is laudable as a post-publication self-correction of science but undesirable as an indicator of grave violations of research and publication ethics. Given its various adverse consequences, retraction has a stigmatizing effect both in and beyond the academic community. However, little theoretical attention has been paid to the stigmatizing nature of retraction. Drawing on stigma theories and informed by research on retraction, we advance a conceptualization of retraction as stigma. We define retraction stigma as a discrediting evaluation of the professional competence and academic ethics of the entities held accountable for retraction. Accordingly, we identify seven core dimensions of retraction stigma, consider its functional justifications at both social and psychological levels, and distinguish its various targets and stakeholders. In view of the central role of retraction notices, we also discuss how retraction stigma is communicated via retraction notices and how authors of retraction notices may exercise their retraction stigma power and manipulate the stigmatizing force of retraction notices. We conclude by recommending retraction stigma as a theoretical framework for future research on retraction and pointing out several directions that this research can take.
From sacred geometry to an old man: on the figure of the Father in Dante’s Divine Comedy and in Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel
Authors: Pál József
Published: April 2022

Dante was exempt from the 15–16th century Renaissance humanists’ general distrust of the medieval heritage. Among many other factors, one reason for this was the experience of shared Florentine pride and destiny. In his time, Michelangelo was considered one of the best-qualified Dante-experts. Already in his lifetime (and with his knowledge), the literature began to thoroughly explore the influence of his predecessor on Michelangelo’s sculptures, paintings and poems. The paper discusses a new aspect of this influence. It seeks an answer to the question of how the representations of God can nevertheless be radically different in the Commedia and the ceiling fresco of the Sistine Chapel. How sacred geometry (the circles of the Trinity) is transformed into a vigorous old man, who directs the events of the creation like an aerial acrobat. The answer may be found in the Platonic theology and cosmology of Ficino’s Academy, which is the continuation of the Christian trend represented by Dionysius the Areopagite and Eriugena. The Father is in motion because, along with the world and man, He also creates himself; in contrast with the “outsider” claim of ego dominus et non mutor; he is also part of the “concert”.
Supportive care of patients diagnosed with high grade glioma and their carers in Australia
Authors: Halkett Georgia K. B. , Berg Melissa N. , Daudu Davina , Dhillon Haryana M. , Koh Eng-Siew , Ownsworth Tamara , Lobb Elizabeth , Phillips Jane , Langbecker Danette , Agar Meera , Hovey Elizabeth , Moorin Rachael , Nowak Anna K.
Published: April 2022

Purpose

This study aimed to: determine the supportive care available for Australian patients with High Grade Glioma (HGG) and their carers; identify service gaps; and inform changes needed to implement guidelines and Optimal Care Pathways.

Methods

This cross-sectional online survey recruited multidisciplinary health professionals (HPs) who were members of the Cooperative Trials Group for Neuro-Oncology involved in management of patients diagnosed with HGG in Australian hospitals. Descriptive statistics were calculated. Fisher's exact test was used to explore differences between groups.

Results

42 complete responses were received. A majority of MDT meetings were attended by a: neurosurgeon, radiation oncologist, medical oncologist, radiologist, and care coordinator. Less than 10% reported attendance by a palliative care nurse; physiotherapist; neuropsychologist; or speech therapist. Most could access referral pathways to a cancer care coordinator (76%), neuropsychologist (78%), radiation oncology nurse (77%), or psycho-oncologist (73%), palliative care (93–100%) and mental health professionals (60–85%). However, few routinely referred to an exercise physiologist (10%), rehabilitation physician (22%), dietitian (22%) or speech therapist (28%). Similarly, routine referrals to specialist mental health services were not standard practice. Nearly all HPs (94%) reported HGG patients were advised to present to their GP for pre-existing conditions/comorbidities; however, most HPs took responsibility (≤ 36% referred to GP) for social issues, mental health, symptoms, cancer complications, and treatment side-effects.

Conclusions

While certain services are accessible to HGG patients nationally, improvements are needed. Psychosocial support, specialist allied health, and primary care providers are not yet routinely integrated into the care of HGG patients and their carers despite these services being considered essential in clinical practice guidelines and optimal care pathways.
MGMT gene promoter methylation by pyrosequencing method correlates volumetric response and neurological status in IDH wild-type glioblastomas
Authors: Hosoya Tomohiro , Takahashi Masamichi , Honda-Kitahara Mai , Miyakita Yasuji , Ohno Makoto , Yanagisawa Shunsuke , Omura Takaki , Kawauchi Daisuke , Tamura Yukie , Kikuchi Miyu , Nakano Tomoyuki , Yoshida Akihiko , Igaki Hiroshi , Matsushita Yuko , Ichimura Koichi , Narita Yoshitaka
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Although the usefulness of O6-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) promoter methylation analysis for predicting response to chemoradiotherapy and the prognosis of patients with glioblastoma has been widely reported, there is still no consensus regarding how to define MGMT promoter methylation percentage (MGMTpm%) cutoffs by pyrosequencing method. The aim of this study was to determine the optimal cutoff value of MGMT promoter methylation status using volumetric analysis focused on the tumor volume ratio (TVR) measured by MRI.

Methods

This retrospective study included newly diagnosed IDH wild-type glioblastoma patients with residual tumor after surgery, followed by local radiotherapy with temozolomide. TVR was defined as the tumor volume at 6 months after the initial chemoradiotherapy administration divided by the tumor volume before the start of therapy. The mean MGMTpm% of 16 CpG islands (74–89) was analyzed using pyrosequencing. We statistically analyzed the correlation between MGMTpm%, TVR, and change in Karnofsky performance status.

Results

The study included 44 patients with residual tumors. Thirteen (92.9%) of 14 patients with MGMTpm% ≥ 23.9% showed 50% or more volumetric response, leading to prolonged survival, and 17 (70.8%) of 24 patients with MGMTpm% < 8.2% had progressive disease after initial chemoradiotherapy administration. Three (50.0%) of six patients with MGMTpm% 8.2% to < 23.9% had stable disease or partial response.

Conclusion

Evaluation of MGMTpm% by pyrosequencing is important in predicting the volumetric response and prognosis of glioblastoma patients with residual tumors.
Order preserving quotient lifting properties
Authors: Rao T. S. S. R. K.
Published: April 2022

Several properties of subspaces $$J \subset X$$

J
⊂
X

in a pair (X, J) with quotient lifting properties of different types are derived, giving emphasis to order-preserving properties for order unit spaces and spaces of affine continuous functions on Choquet simplexes.