bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential thiosemicarbazone‐based enzyme inhibitors: Assessment of antiproliferative activity, metabolic enzyme inhibition properties, and molecular docking calculations
Authors: Yakan Hasan , Koçyiğit Ümit M. , Muğlu Halit , Ergul Mustafa , Erkan Sultan , Güzel Emre , Taslimi Parham , Gülçin İlhami
Published: February 2022

A new series of thiosemicarbazone derivatives (1–11) were prepared from various aldehydes and isocyanates with high yields and practical methods. The structures of these compounds were elucidated by Fourier transform infrared, 1H‐nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), 13C‐NMR spectroscopic methods and elemental analysis. Cytotoxic effects of target compounds were determined by 2,3‐bis‐(2‐methoxy‐4‐nitro‐5‐sulfophenyl)‐2H‐tetrazolium‐5‐carboxanilide assay and compound 1 showed significant cytotoxic activity against both MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231 cells, with half‐maximal inhibitory concentration values of 2.97 μM and 6.57 μM, respectively. Moreover, in this study, the anticholinergic and antidiabetic potentials of these compounds were investigated. To this aim, the effect of the newly synthesized thiosemicarbazone derivatives on the activities of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and αglycosidase (α‐Gly) was evaluated spectrophotometrically. The title compounds demonstrated high inhibitory activities compared to standard inhibitors with Ki values in the range of 122.15–333.61 nM for α‐Gly (Ki value for standard inhibitor = 75.48 nM), 1.93–12.36 nM for AChE (Ki value for standard inhibitor = 17.45 nM). Antiproliferative activity and enzyme inhibition at the molecular level were performed molecular docking studies for thiosemicarbazone derivatives. 1M17, 5FI2, and 4EY6, 4J5T target proteins with protein data bank identification with (1–11) compounds were docked for anticancer and enzyme inhibition, respectively.
Circulating inflammatory cell profiling and periodontitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Irwandi Rizky A , Kuswandani Sandra O , Harden Simon , Marletta Debora , D'Aiuto Francesco
Published: February 2022

Inflammation is a key driver of common noncommunicable diseases. Among common triggers of inflammation, chronic gingival inflammation (periodontitis) triggers a consistent humoral host inflammatory response, but little is known on its impact on circulating inflammatory cell profiles. We aimed to systematically appraise all the evidence linking periodontitis and its treatment to circulating inflammatory cell profiles. From 6 databases, 157 studies were eligible for qualitative synthesis and 29 studies for meta-analysis. Our meta-analysis showed that participants with periodontitis exhibited a significant mean increase in circulating CD4+, CD4+CD45RO+, IFNγ-expressing CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, CD19+CD27+ and CD5+ B cells, CD14+CD16+ monocytes, and CD16+ neutrophils but decrease in CD8+ T and CD14++CD16− monocytes. Our qualitative synthesis revealed that peripheral blood neutrophils of patients with periodontitis consistently showed elevated production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) when compared with those of healthy controls. Some evidence suggested that the treatment of periodontitis reversed the exaggerated ROS production, but limited and inconclusive data were found on several circulating inflammatory cell profiling. We conclude that periodontitis and its treatment are associated with minor but consistent alterations in circulating inflammatory cell profiles. These changes could represent key mechanisms explaining the association of periodontitis with other comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Early initiation of the respiratory syncytial virus season in 2021–2022, Greece
Authors: Pappa Styliani , Haidopoulou Katerina , Zarras Charalampos , Theodorakou Eleni , Papadimitriou Eleni , Iosifidis Elias , Gkeka Ioanna , Stoikou Konstantina , Vagdatli Eleni , Skoura Lemonia , Papa Anna
Published: February 2022

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the most common viral pathogen causing respiratory disease in the pediatric population. An unexpected sudden upsurge of RSV infections among children was observed in September 2021 in Greece. Forty‐one rhinopharyngeal samples from children under the age of 2 years with confirmed RSV bronchiolitis were tested to identify the genotype(s) of the RSV strain(s). The children were hospitalized during September−November 2021 in three tertiary hospitals in northern Greece. A one‐step RT‐PCR which amplifies a fragment of the second hypervariable region of the G protein gene was applied. PCR products were sequenced, and phylogenetic analysis was performed. Most (80.5%) RSV cases were typed as RSV‐A, with RSV‐B accounting for 19.5% of cases. RSV‐A and RSV‐B sequences clustered within the ON1 and BA genotypes, respectively. As the same genotypes were detected in cases observed during 2016–2018 in northern Greece, it was suggested that the early upsurge of infections was not related to the emergence of novel strain(s), but it was the result of the absence of immunity among children and their mothers due to the restriction measures taken during the COVID‐19 pandemic in the previous RSV season. Awareness is needed to diagnose even the out‐of‐season RSV infections, while molecular epidemiology plays a key role in monitoring the efficacy of currently available therapeutics and for those under development.
Divergent Thinking and Evaluative Skill: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Guo Yawei , Lin Shengjie , Acar Selcuk , Jin Shuxian , Xu Xizheng , Feng Ye , Zeng Yuntao
Published: February 2022

Evaluative skill, the ability to accurately assess ideas in terms of originality or creativity, is a critical component of creativity. It involves discarding bad ideas and discerning ideas that are worthwhile to pursue. In light of the growing research on the association between individuals’ evaluative skill and divergent thinking (DT), a research synthesis is needed to clarify discrepant results. Therefore, we examined the relationship between DT and evaluative skill with a three‐level meta‐analytic approach. Based on 96 effect sizes in 20 studies with a total sample of 3,019 participants, results indicated that DT was positively associated with evaluative skill,r = .13 (95% CI [.07, .20],p < .001). Follow‐up moderator analyses revealed that the type of DT tests, the source of ideas, and the type of evaluation tasks were significant moderators. Compared with Instances, Line Meanings, and Consequences, the relationship was (a) weaker when the Uses task was used as the DT test, (b) stronger when the evaluation task was based on Uses, and (c) stronger when people rated their own ideas than when they rated others. The findings implied that DT and evaluative skill are conceptually distinct but interrelated and suggested ways to enhance evaluative skill.
Efficient entrapment of inorganic Se species in water and beer samples with functional groups‐rich monolith‐based adsorbent
Authors: Luo Siyu , Song Xiaochong , Peng Jinghe , Huang Xiaojia
Published: February 2022

An efficient multiple fibers solid‐phase microextraction method based on porous monolith was established for Se(IV) and Se(VI) analysis. Poly(4‐vinylphenylboronic acid/styrene‐co‐ethylene dimethacrylate/divinylbenzene) monolith was fabricated and employed as the extraction phase for efficient entrapment of Se(IV) complexed with o‐phenylenediamine, followed by elution with a methanol/formic acid (99/1.0, v/v) mixture and quantification by high‐performance liquid chromatography with diode array detector. The Se(VI) species was measured by the difference between total inorganic Se and Se(IV) after pre‐reduction. Different characterization techniques were employed to inspect the structure and morphology of prepared adsorbent. A series of key extraction factors were optimized so as to achieve the expected extraction performance. Under the optimized separation and capture parameters, the linear range and limit of detection for Se(IV) in water sample were 0.050–200 and 0.013 μg/L, respectively. For beer sample, the corresponding values were 0.010–300 and 0.032 μg/L. The developed microextraction approach was successfully utilized to detect trace Se(IV) and Se(VI) in environmental water and beer samples with satisfactory fortified recovery and repeatability. Results well reveal the attractive merits of the established method in the analysis of Se species, including simple preparation of adsorbent, convenient extraction procedure, good sensitivity, high cost‐effectiveness, and eco‐friendliness.
A neglected aspect of refugee relief works: Secondary and vicarious traumatic stress
Authors: Ebren Gökhan , Demircioğlu Melis , Çırakoğlu Okan Cem
Published: February 2022

The literature demonstrates evidence that secondary traumatic stress (STS) and vicarious traumatic stress (VTS) may adversely affect the well‐being of refugee relief workers and, thus, the quality of their services. The present review offers an exploration of (a) the theoretical background of STS and VTS, (b) their appearance among refugee relief workers, (c) intervention studies available, (d) common points among intervention studies and guidelines on STS and VTS released by local and international nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), and (e) the potential problems that can be associated with the insufficiency of standardized intervention programs as assessed in effectiveness studies. This review may help mental health professionals in countries that host large numbers of refugees and asylum seekers, such as Turkey, Lebanon, and Jordan, to design more effective intervention programs targeting STS and VTS.
The experience of use of percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainages for early biliary complications after liver transplantation
Authors: Su Wen‐Lung , Yu Fang‐Jung , Huang Jian‐Wei , Shih Ming‐Chen , Hsu Wen‐Hung , Shih Hsiang‐Yao , Huang Yu‐Ling , Chen Ling‐An , Wu Po‐Hsuan , Wu Chia‐Jen , Chen Chiao‐Yun , Kuo Kung‐Kai , Lee King‐Teh , Chang Wen‐Tsan
Published: February 2022

This study aimed to describe our experience and discuss the results, controversies, and the use of percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD) in patients with biliary complications after liver transplantation (LT). Between November 2009 and August 2020, 76 consecutive patients who underwent 77 LTs (44 deceased donor LTs and 33 living donor LTs [LDLT]) were enrolled retrospectively. Endoscopic therapy as initial approach and PTBD as rescue therapy were used for patients with biliary complications. There were 31 patients (31/76, 40.8%) with biliary complications, and two of them died (2/31, 6.5%). Clinical success rate of endoscopic therapy alone was 71.0% (22/31). The remaining nine patients received salvage PTBD and their clinical results were observed according to whether their intrahepatic bile ducts (IHBDs) was dilated (group A, n = 5) or not (group B, n = 4). In group A, the technical and long‐term clinical success rates of PTBD were 100% and 20%, respectively. These five patients received PTBD ranging from 75 to 732 days after their LTs, and no procedure‐related complications were encountered. In group B, the technical and long‐term clinical success rates of PTBD were 50% and 25%, respectively. Three group B patients (75%) underwent PTBD within 30 days after LDLT and had lethal complications. One patient had graft laceration and survived after receiving timely re‐transplantation. The other two patients died of sepsis due to PTBD‐related bilioportal fistula or multiple liver abscesses. Our experience showed salvage PTBD played a limited role in biliary complications without dilated IHBDs within 1 month after LT.
Nutrient enrichment intensifies the effects of warming on metabolic balance of stream ecosystems
Authors: Cross Wyatt F. , Hood James M. , Benstead Jonathan P. , Huryn Alexander D. , Welter Jill R. , Gíslason Gísli M. , Ólafsson Jón S.
Published: February 2022

Climate warming and eutrophication are leading drivers of environmental change, and both are likely to alter the role of freshwaters in the global carbon cycle. Recent studies demonstrate that warming of streams can increase freshwater contributions of CO2 to the atmosphere, yet little is known about how such contributions are modulated by the identity or supply of limiting nutrients. We quantified responses of ecosystem metabolism and metabolic balance to whole‐stream enrichments of either nitrogen or phosphorus across a 5°C range of ambient temperature. We show that nutrient enrichment drove large reductions in net ecosystem production, and interactions with temperature amplified these effects in warm N‐enriched streams. Partitioning of autotrophic and heterotrophic respiration revealed that these responses were driven by increased respiration of microbial heterotrophs. Our study provides direct experimental evidence that warming‐induced increases in CO2 emissions to the atmosphere are likely intensified in stream ecosystems subject to eutrophication.
Horizontal partial shareholding, dual purpose concern, and mixed duopoly competition
Authors: Zhou Pin , Hong Hong
Published: February 2022

This paper investigates the combined effect of horizontal partial shareholding and dual purpose concern on quantity competition. We identify the type of acquiring firm on production quantity, consumer surplus, and social welfare. The results show that the combined effect may accelerate competition or mitigate competition, which depends on the trade‐off between the competition‐softening effect of horizontal partial shareholding and competition‐intensifying effect of dual purpose concern. Whether the consumer and society benefit from the combined effect also depends on the magnitude of horizontal shareholding and socialresponsibility preference.
Stability analysis of systems with time‐varying delay via a delay‐product‐type integral inequality
Authors: Tan Guoqiang , Wang Zhanshan
Published: February 2022

This paper is concerned with the issue of stability analysis of systems with time‐varying delay. First, a delay‐product‐type (DPT) integral inequality is proposed, which combines the third‐order Bessel–Legendre (TOBL) integral inequality and the reciprocally convex (RC) inequality into a unified integral inequality; then, a tight upper bound on the time‐derivative of the Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional (LKF) can be obtained. Second, an augmented LKF is tailored for the use of the DPT integral inequality; then, more information about the instant state and the delayed states is taken into account. Third, by using the DPT integral inequality and the augmented LKF, some less conservative conditions that ensure the stability of systems with time‐varying delay are derived. Finally, simulations are provided to illustrate the advantage of our proposed method.
Determining the ideal initial printing colorants in electrophotography by the discrete gradation trajectories
Authors: Tarasov Dmitry A. , Milder Oleg B.
Published: February 2022

The accuracy and repeatability of the color reproduction in print is determined by the fine‐tuning of the tone reproduction curves of the basic printing colorants (most often this is CMYK). However, the diversity of manufacturers of printing equipment and dyes introduces an element of significant uncertainty about color uniformity. In addition, the traditional approach does not take into account the effect of hue change when applying the original dyes, as well as the nonlinearity of the hue rise in high‐ and low‐density areas. Determining the color of base colorants that produces the most uniform tone change is an important engineering challenge. Previously, there was no scientific basis for such calculations. We recently proposed an alternative color correction model based on gradation trajectories as an analogue of gradation curves in the CIE Lab space. We have also described the extension of the approach to double color overlay (gradation surfaces) and its analytical and discrete implications. The trajectories are the geodetic lines on gradation surfaces. In this paper, we propose using the gradation trajectories to determine “ideal” or “true” initial printing dyes for electrophotography. To simplify calculations, natural color discretization in digital printing is used.
Extragingival peripheral ameloblastoma arising in the infratemporal fossa: A case report with an assessment of proliferative activity
Authors: Kono Tatsuyuki , Abe Ayaka , Noguchi Kaori , Uchida Kana , Shinoda Mao , Kawano Kenji
Published: February 2022

Background

Peripheral ameloblastoma is an extraosseous variant of ameloblastoma. We report a rare case arising in an extragingival location.

Case Presentation

The patient was a 79‐year‐old man with a firm nodule in the right‐side buccal mucosa. Imaging examinations showed a well‐demarcated mass in the right masticator space (infratemporal fossa). The diagnosis of ameloblastoma was made from the biopsy specimen. After conservative tumor excision, the patient had no recurrence during the follow‐up period of eight and a half years. The Ki‐67 labeling index indicated the nonaggressive nature of the tumor.

Conclusion

Conservative surgery is applicable to extragingival peripheral ameloblastomas.
Antenatal management of congenital diaphragmatic hernia: What's next ?
Authors: Russo Francesca , Benachi Alexandra , Gratacos Eduard , Zani Augusto , Keijzer Richard , Partridge Emily , Sananes Nicolas , De Coppi Paolo , Aertsen Michael , Nicolaides Kypros H. , Deprest Jan
Published: February 2022

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia can be diagnosed in the prenatal period and its severity can be measured by fetal imaging. There is now level I evidence that, in selected cases, Fetoscopic Endoluminal Tracheal Occlusion with a balloon increases survival to discharge from the neonatal unit as well as the risk for prematurity. Both effects are dependent on the time point of tracheal occlusion. Fetoscopic Endoluminal Tracheal Occlusion may also lead to iatrogenic death when the balloon cannot be timely retrieved. The implementation of the findings from our clinical studies, may also vary based on local conditions. These may be different in terms of available skill set, access to fetal therapy, as well as outcome based on local neonatal management. We encourage prior benchmarking of local outcomes with optimal postnatal management, based on large enough numbers and using identical criteria as in the recent trials. We propose to work further on prenatal prediction methods, and the improvement of fetal intervention. In this manuscript, we describe a research agenda from a fetal medicine perspective. This research should be in parallel with innovation in neonatal and pediatric (surgical) management of this condition.
Physicochemical property evaluation of modified oligonucleotides by traveling‐wave ion mobility mass spectrometry
Authors: Omuro Shogo , Yamaguchi Takao , Kawase Taiji , Terasaki Maki , Hirose Kenji , Obika Satoshi
Published: February 2022

Rationale

Therapeutic oligonucleotides have molecular weights of more than 6000 Da. They typically contain chemically modified structures such as phosphorothioate (PS) and a locked nucleic acid (LNA). To determine the effect of the length and chemical modification on the physicochemical properties, various nucleic acids with different lengths and modified structures were analyzed using traveling‐wave ion mobility mass spectrometry (TWIMS).

Methods

The physicochemical characteristics of the modified oligonucleotides were determined using IM‐MS. Each oligonucleotide was evaluated by confirming the multivalent charge state drift times, collision cross‐section (CCS) values, and CCS widths.

Results

By plotting the m/z for oligonucleotides of different lengths and the CCS values at each charge state, a bottoming‐out shape plot at one charge per 4.0–3.5 bases was confirmed. Moreover, significant differences were observed in the CCS values between the PS‐modified and unmodified oligonucleotides. The PS‐modified oligonucleotide showed a wider CCS range that was proportional to the PS modification ratio of the oligonucleotide sequence.

Conclusions

The TWIMS results showed a correlation between the length and modification of oligonucleotides and the CCS values. In addition, it suggested that each charge state of the oligonucleotide ion has different physicochemical properties.
Structure Parameters Optimization of the Rain Cover and Ventilation Duct of Dry Air Core Reactor under the Forced Air Cooling Condition
Authors: Liu Jianben , Yuan Fating , Zhou Bing , Yang Shouwei , Lv Kai , Tang Bo
Published: February 2022

In this paper, the three‐dimensional fluid field‐temperature field coupled model of air core reactor is established, the detailed temperature field distributions of reactor can be obtained, and the reason about the temperature rise of reactor is significant increased when adding the rain cover is given by analyzing the flow velocity of fluid in the air ducts. Considering the natural air cooling no longer meets the temperature rise requirement of the reactor, the forced air cooling is performed by installing ventilation duct and fan at the bottom of the reactor, combined with the finite element method and central composite experimental design method (CCD), the influence of structure parameters of rain cover and ventilation duct on the temperature rise of reactor are analyzed, meanwhile, the response surface model is established, which reflects the relationship between the temperature of reactor and the structure parameter of rain cover and ventilation duct, and the optimal design parameters can be obtained based on the quantum genetic algorithm, the maximum temperature of the reactor is only 59.3°C, the difference between the prediction of response surface and simulation result is only 0.1°C, and the correctness of the optimization method is validated, which provides an important guiding significance for the safe and stable operation of reactor in the system. © 2022 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Effect of an antimicrobial stewardship intervention on the prescribing behaviours of companion animal veterinarians: A pre–post study
Authors: Walker Ben , Sánchez‐Vizcaíno Fernando , Barker Emi N.
Published: February 2022

Background

Antimicrobial stewardship is a cornerstone of efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance. We evaluated the impact of a formal discussion of antimicrobial stewardship for dogs and cats on systemic antimicrobial prescribing behaviours among companion animal veterinarians.

Methods

Electronic health records including information about the prescription of antimicrobials were collected from a multisite UK veterinary practice between 2017 and 2020. We undertook interrupted time series analysis using a quasi‐Poisson model to compare the pre‐ and postintervention change in level and slope for multiple outcomes.

Results

After the intervention, there were sustained reductions in the prescription rate of cefovecin to cats and metronidazole to dogs and increases in amoxicillin‐clavulanic acid prescribing. There was no evidence for an immediate change in overall prescribing rates in either species, although rates increased over the 12 months after the intervention. There was a transient increase in the proportion of dogs who had their weight recorded at the time of prescription. Results suggest decreases in the prescription of off‐licence antimicrobials in both species and the likelihood of underdosing in dogs.

Conclusions

Discussion of antimicrobial stewardship is more likely to influence the antimicrobial choice than whether to prescribe or not. Interventions may benefit by focusing on appropriate antimicrobial selection rather than overall prescription frequency.
Introduction
Authors: Amaral Alberto
Published: February 2022

This book presents an overview of policies and practices aimed at promoting equity in access to higher education. Despite an initial idea that massification of higher education would have, at least, attenuated differences in the access of higher education related to the social background of students and their families, it has been observed that equity has not been achieved. Chapter 2 presents a theoretical background of the problem based on the positional character of higher education. Chapters 3 to 9 present several national cases, including the U.S., Brazil and a number of European countries. All these chapters present a critical analysis of access policies and of why they have failed to promote equity in the sense of fairness, meaning ensuring the elimination of obstacles to achieving educational potential resulting from personal and social factors. Chapter 10 presents the conclusions of the book.
Conclusion: Learning from the Past to Shape Future Policies Towards Equity in Higher Education
Authors: Tavares Orlanda , Sin Cristina , Sá Carla
Published: February 2022

The concluding chapter highlights that the commitment with equity in the analysed contexts has increased social justice and contributed to a reduction of social inequalities. However, the policies employed to improve equity are not homogenous since they depend on the local, educational, historical, economic and political conditions that favour the persistence of social inequalities and on the levels at which inequalities occur (access, institutional stratification, retention or attainment). Although massification of higher education systems seems to have allowed the participation of students from deprived backgrounds, the competition is now mostly occurring for places in the most prestigious institutions and study programmes. The winners continue to be students of high socioeconomic status, who benefit from a number of advantages: access to information, lower aversion to debt, better previous schooling and academic achievement or higher expectations. The chapter critically discusses the policies that need to acknowledge the fact that inequalities persist at other levels, despite the massification of participation.
Towards Equity: Developing a National Approach to Improving Social Justice through Higher Education in England
Authors: Thomas Liz
Published: February 2022

England presents an interesting case study of a country that has attempted to improve social justice within a neo-liberal higher education system. Expansion of the higher education sector did not achieve equality, and there has been recognition of the need to also consider equality of outcomes, especially success within higher education. England has achieved only a small differential between students from the highest and lowest socio-economic groups for continuation and completion, and has utilised national policy tools to achieve this. Research about student retention and success tends to focus on changing either the student or the institution, but England has used a combination of national policy tools to stimulate institutional responsibility for success and to promote institutional change. This has contributed to greater equity, shifting from the focus from fairness in participation to inclusion. Challenges still remain however, with regards to improving access in general and to the most selective universities in particular, levelling the attainment between groups, and achieving equity in terms of labour market and postgraduate outcomes. Moving forward, these three issues should be the priorities for English higher education policy makers.
An Equality Paradox? The Northern European Case
Authors: Aamodt Per Olaf
Published: February 2022

The Nordic countries are often regarded as unique, with relatively small income differences and welfare state policies characterised by universal and generous public support to its citizens. Educational policies aim at offering schooling for all, with a predominantly public comprehensive school system free of tuition. Based on a broad review of research contributions, this paper aims at investigating whether access to higher education in the Nordic countries are also more equitable than in most other countries.

Research on inequality in higher education has adapted a broad range of data, methodology and theoretical approaches, and it is difficult to draw exact conclusions. Nevertheless, the Nordic countries are among the group of countries showing a positive development towards equality. At the other hand, the enrolment pattern is still socially biased in spite of a massive growth in higher education participation. Furthermore, recent comparative research has shown substantial differences between the Nordic countries in both level and trends in participation.

While access to higher education in general has become more equal in the Nordic countries, enrolment to the most prestigious study programmes is still strongly socially selective, giving support to the Effectively Maintained Inequality theory.
The Electro-Weak Phase Transition at Colliders: Discovery Post-Mortem
Authors: Papaefstathiou Andreas , White Graham
Published: February 2022

Abstract

We explore the capabilities of a future proton collider to probe the nature of the electro-weak phase transition, following the hypothetical discovery of a new scalar particle. We focus on the real singlet scalar field extension of the Standard Model, representing the most minimal, and challenging to probe, framework that can enable a strong first-order electro-weak phase transition. By constructing detailed phenomenological methods for measuring the mass and accessible couplings of the new scalar particle, we find that a 100 TeV proton collider has the potential to explore the parameter space of the real singlet model and provide meaningful constraints on the electro-weak phase transition. We empirically find some necessary conditions for the realization of a strong first order electroweak phase transition and conjecture that additional information, including through multi-scalar processes and gravitational wave detectors, are likely needed to gauge the nature of the cosmological electro-weak transition. This study represents the first crucial step towards solving the inverse problem in the context of the electro-weak phase transition.
Phase transitions for deformations of JT supergravity and matrix models
Authors: Rosso Felipe , Turiaci Gustavo J.
Published: February 2022

Abstract

We analyze deformations of $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 Jackiw-Teitelboim (JT) supergravity by adding a gas of defects, equivalent to changing the dilaton potential. We compute the Euclidean partition function in a topological expansion and find that it matches the perturbative expansion of a random matrix model to all orders. The matrix model implements an average over the Hamiltonian of a dual holographic description and provides a stable non-perturbative completion of these theories of $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 dilaton-supergravity. For some range of deformations, the supergravity spectral density becomes negative, yielding an ill-defined topological expansion. To solve this problem, we use the matrix model description and show the negative spectrum is resolved via a phase transition analogous to the Gross-Witten-Wadia transition. The matrix model contains a rich and novel phase structure that we explore in detail, using both perturbative and non-perturbative techniques.
Central charges, elliptic genera, and Bekenstein-Hawking entropy in $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = (2, 2) AdS3/CFT2
Authors: Ardehali Arash Arabi , Jiang Jiaqi , Zhao Wenli
Published: February 2022

Abstract

We consider $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= (2, 2) AdS3/CFT2 dualities proposed in the large central charge limit (c → ∞) by Eberhardt. Here we propose the associated D1-D5 systems to be orbifolds of the standard $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= (4, 4) systems, thereby elevating the dualities to the finite-c level on the boundary and to the quantum level in the bulk. In particular, we show that our brane systems yield low-energy sigma models whose subleading central charges match earlier predictions from bulk one-loop supergravity computations. In the case involving the Enriques surface, the finite-c sigma model has a non-trivial elliptic genus which we use to microscopically explain both the Bekenstein-Hawking entropy and the subleading logarithmic correction to it for the associated macroscopic black brane.
Comprehensive study of distributions of residual stress and Young’s modulus in large-diameter sugi (Cryptomeria japonica) log
Authors: Matsuo-Ueda Miyuki , Tsunezumi Tsubasa , Jiang Zhuoting , Yoshida Masato , Yamashita Kana , Matsuda Yosuke , Matsumura Yukari , Ikami Yuji , Yamamoto Hiroyuki
Published: February 2022

Aged conifer forests in Japan are expected to produce large-diameter logs, defined as logs with a top-end diameter of 30 cm or more. However, the knowledge and techniques for industrial processing of large-diameter logs of Japanese wood species have not been sufficiently developed. This study was aimed at characterizing the longitudinal component of residual stress distribution of large-diameter logs of sugi (Japanese cedar, Cryptomeria japonica), a major tree species cultivated in Japan, as the processing yield of primary lumber from large-diameter logs is affected by the magnitude and distribution pattern of the residual stress. The radial distributions of the released strain of residual stress, tensile Young’s modulus, and residual stress were measured using 63 logs. The radial distributions of the released strain and residual stress showed typical patterns reported in previous studies: contraction near the bark and elongation near the pith in the released strain, tensile stress near the bark, and compressive stress near the pith. The radial distributions of Young’s modulus showed a typical pattern: low near the pith and high near the bark. The difference between the maximum and minimum released strains in each log varied widely among individuals, which was expected to result in a wide variation in crooking when rip sawing. The longitudinal uniformity and axial symmetry of the radial distribution of the released strain and residual stress were experimentally confirmed, which lays the groundwork for improved understanding of the residual stress in sugi logs.
Entscheidungen treffen in Pandemiezeiten
Authors: Bieber A. , Dammermann A. , Dichter M. N. , Dinand C. , Eich-Krohm A. , Freytag S. , Möhler R. , Sander M. , Thalhammer R. , Fleischer S.
Published: February 2022

Hintergrund

In der ersten Pandemiewelle im Frühjahr 2020 sind in den stationären Langzeitpflegeeinrichtungen überproportional viele Bewohner*innen und Mitarbeiter*innen an COVID-19 erkrankt und hatten den höchsten Anteil im Ausbruchsgeschehen. Leitungspersonen stationärer Altenpflegeeinrichtungen mussten pandemiebedingt teilweise täglich neue eigene Entscheidungen treffen sowie Entscheidungen übergeordneter Stellen interpretieren und integrieren.

Ziel der Arbeit

Ziel war es zu beschreiben, welche Entscheidungen im Umgang mit der COVID-19-Pandemie von Leitungspersonen stationärer Altenpflegeeinrichtungen zu treffen waren, und welche Konsequenzen sich daraus ergaben.

Material und Methoden

Es wurde ein qualitatives multizentrisches Querschnittdesign gewählt. Die Datenerhebung fand mittels semistrukturierter Telefoninterviews statt. Die aufgezeichneten Audiodaten wurden transkribiert, mittels Framework Analysis analysiert und in „peer debriefings“ reflektiert.

Ergebnisse

Es konnten 78 Interviews in 43 Pflegeeinrichtungen geführt werden. Es wurden 3 Hauptthemen mit 10 Subthemen identifiziert: Entscheidungen zu sozialer Teilhabe; Entscheidungen zu Quarantäne und Isolation und Anpassen des Personaleinsatzes.

Diskussion

Gebraucht werden klarere Information und Anordnungen zur Umsetzung von Maßnahmen, z. B. durch bundesweit einheitliche Vorgaben. In der Informationspolitik werden auch die Gesundheitsämter in der Pflicht gesehen. Konsequenzen ihrer Entscheidungen waren für die Leitungspersonen kaum absehbar und von Unsicherheit geprägt. Verantwortlichkeiten für und Konsequenzen von Entscheidungen in der Pandemie sollten weiter evaluiert werden, um Leitungspersonen für Krisenzeiten zu stärken.
Exercise in preventing falls for men with prostate cancer: a modelled cost-utility analysis
Authors: Edmunds Kim , Scuffham Paul , Newton Robert U. , Galvão Daniel A. , Tuffaha Haitham
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Men who receive androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for prostate cancer (PCa) are a vulnerable falls population due to the side effects of treatment. The purpose of this paper is to determine the cost-effectiveness of exercise in preventing falls and fractures for this high-risk population in Australia.

Methods

A decision analytic model was constructed to evaluate the cost utility of an exercise intervention compared to usual care from a health system perspective. The intervention comprised two 1-h sessions of supervised exercise per week over 1 year for men with non-metastatic PCa receiving curative radiation therapy and ADT. A Markov model simulated the transition between five health states: (1) at risk of falling; (2) at recurrent risk of falling; (3) fracture (minor or major); (4) non-fracture injury (minor or major); and (5) death. Model inputs including transition probabilities and utility scores were obtained from published meta-analyses, and costs were drawn from Australian data sources (e.g. Medical Benefits Schedule). The model time horizon was 3 years, and costs and effects were discounted at 5% annual rate. Costs and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) were aggregated and compared between the intervention and control to calculate incremental net monetary benefit (iNMB). Uncertainty in the results was explored using deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses (PSA).

Results

At a willingness-to-pay of AU$50,000 per QALY, the exercise intervention dominated, as it was less costly and more effective than usual care. The iNMB was $3010 per patient. The PSA showed a 58% probability the intervention was cost-effective.

Conclusion

This is the first modelled economic evaluation of exercise for men with PCa. Our results suggest supervised exercise is cost-effective in reducing the risks of falls and fractures in this population.
Cognitive diagnostic modelling in healthcare professions education: an eye-opener
Authors: Collares Carlos Fernando
Published: February 2022

Criticisms about psychometric paradigms currently used in healthcare professions education include claims of reductionism, objectification, and poor compliance with assumptions. Nevertheless, perhaps the most crucial criticism comes from learners' difficulty in interpreting and making meaningful use of summative scores and the potentially detrimental impact these scores have on learners. The term "post-psychometric era" has become popular, despite persisting calls for the sensible use of modern psychometrics. In recent years, cognitive diagnostic modelling has emerged as a new psychometric paradigm capable of providing meaningful diagnostic feedback. Cognitive diagnostic modelling allows the classification of examinees in multiple cognitive attributes. This measurement is obtained by modelling these attributes as categorical, discrete latent variables. Furthermore, items can reflect more than one latent variable simultaneously. The interactions between latent variables can be modelled with flexibility, allowing a unique perspective on complex cognitive processes. These characteristic features of cognitive diagnostic modelling enable diagnostic classification over a large number of constructs of interest, preventing the necessity of providing numerical scores as feedback to test takers. This paper provides an overview of cognitive diagnostic modelling, including an introduction to its foundations and illustrating potential applications, to help teachers be involved in developing and evaluating assessment tools used in healthcare professions education. Cognitive diagnosis may represent a revolutionary new psychometric paradigm, overcoming the known limitations found in frequently used psychometric approaches, offering the possibility of robust qualitative feedback and better alignment with competency-based curricula and modern programmatic assessment frameworks.
Review: Multi-principal element alloys by additive manufacturing
Authors: Li Chenze , Ferry Michael , Kruzic Jamie J. , Li Xiaopeng
Published: February 2022

Multi-principal element alloys (MPEAs) have attracted rapidly growing attention from both research institutions and industry due to their unique microstructures and outstanding physical and chemical properties. However, the fabrication of MPEAs with desired microstructures and properties using conventional manufacturing techniques (e.g., casting) is still challenging. With the recent emergence of additive manufacturing (AM) techniques, the fabrication of MPEAs with locally tailorable microstructures and excellent mechanical properties has become possible. Therefore, it is of paramount importance to understand the key aspects of the AM processes that influence the microstructural features of AM fabricated MPEAs including porosity, anisotropy, and heterogeneity, as well as the corresponding impact on the properties. As such, this review will first present the state-of-the-art in existing AM techniques to process MPEAs. This is followed by a discussion of the microstructural features, mechanisms of microstructural evolution, and the mechanical properties of the AM fabricated MPEAs. Finally, the current challenges and future research directions are summarized with the aim to promote the further development and implementation of AM for processing MPEAs for future industrial applications.
Beyond the money: grantors supporting their grantees
Authors: Boesso Giacomo , Cerbioni Fabrizio , Menini Andrea , Redigolo Giulia
Published: February 2022

This study analyses the relationship between grant-making foundations (grantors) and operative nonprofit organizations (grantees) to determine whether a positive association exists between foundations’ intervention beyond the money and grantees’ organizational capacity development. Data are collected using a survey of grantees who received funding from a Foundation of Banking Origin (FOB) in the context of Italy. The analyses portray three capacity-building factors that FOBs can deploy in addition to the financial grant, namely, operative support, goal alignment, and performance oversight. The results endorse our hypotheses that both the amount of operative support provided by the foundation and the higher perception of goal congruence between grantor and grantees are positively correlated with the organizational capacity of the grantee. Our results also suggest that the benefits of increased oversight prevail over the drawbacks.
Do women always behave as corruption cleaners?
Authors: Guerra Alice , Zhuravleva Tatyana
Published: February 2022

We use experimental data to explore the conditions under which males and females may differ in their tendency to act corruptly and their tolerance of corruption. We ask if males and females respond differently to the tradeoff between the benefits accrued by corrupt actorsversusthe negative externality imposed on other people by corruption. Our findings reveal that neither males nor females uniformly are more likely to engage in, or be more tolerant of corruption: it depends on the exact bribery conditions—which can reduce or enhance welfare overall—and the part played in the bribery act. Females are less likely to tolerate and engage in corruption when doing so reduces overall welfare. On the other hand, males are less tolerant of bribery when it enhances welfare but confers payoff disadvantages on them relative to corrupt actors. Females’ behavior is consistent across roles when bribery reduces welfare, but apart from that, gender behavior is strongly role-dependent.
Task-oriented reading efficiency: interplay of general cognitive ability, task demands, strategies and reading fluency
Authors: Hautala Jarkko , Salmerón Ladislao , Tolvanen Asko , Loberg Otto , Leppänen Paavo
Published: February 2022

The associations among readers’ cognitive skills (general cognitive ability, reading skills, and attentional functioning), task demands (easy versus difficult questions), and process measures (total fixation time on relevant and irrelevant paragraphs) was investigated to explain task-oriented reading accuracy and efficiency (number of scores in a given time unit). Structural equation modeling was applied to a large dataset collected with sixth-grade students, which included samples of dysfluent readers and those with attention difficulties. The results are in line with previous findings regarding the dominant role of general cognitive ability in the accuracy of task-oriented reading. However, efficiency in task-oriented reading was mostly explained by the shorter viewing times of both paragraph types (i.e., relevant and irrelevant), which were modestly explained by general cognitive ability and reading fluency. These findings suggest that high efficiency in task orientation is obtained by relying on a selective reading strategy when reading both irrelevant and relevant paragraphs. The selective reading strategy seems to be specifically learned, and this potentially applies to most students, even those with low cognitive abilities.
The Early Wittgenstein on Living a Good Ethical Life
Authors: Fairhurst Jordi
Published: February 2022

This paper offers a novel interpretation of Wittgenstein’s early conception of ethics and the good ethical life. Initially, it critically examines the widespread view according to which Wittgenstein’s early conception of ethics and the good ethical life involves having a certain ethical attitude to the world. It points out that this reading incurs in some mistakes and shortcomings, thereby suggesting the need for an alternative reading that avoids and amends these inadequacies. Subsequently, it sets out to offer said reading. Specifically, it is argued that the good ethical life is predicated on a good exercise of the ethical will and solving the riddle of life, both of which demand a certain view of, and not an attitude to, the world. This view is the view of the world sub specie aeterni.
How to sanction international wrongdoing? The design of EU restrictive measures
Authors: Meissner Katharina
Published: February 2022

Sanctions are among the most widely used foreign policy tools of governments and international organizations in response to national or international wrongdoings. Beyond the dichotomous question of whether to adopt or not to adopt sanctions against a target, decision-makers develop different designs when they impose restrictions: targeted sanctions like asset freezes and travel bans, arms embargoes, or economic sanctions such as financial restrictions and commodity bans. What accounts for this variation in the design of sanctions regimes? This article investigates this question by developing a configurational explanation that combines domestic- and international-level factors for the choice of an economic versus a targeted sanctions design. I test these factors on original data mapping European Union (EU) autonomous sanctions against third countries in force in 2019 through set-theoretic methods. The analysis shows that a militarily strong target’s serious misbehavior through grave human rights violations triggers EU action in the form of economic sanctions, however, only in combination with two conditions: first, the EU reacts to a misbehavior through the adoption of an economic design when the United States imposes economic sanctions, too (path 1); second, the salience of a target’s conflict triggers an economic design of sanctions in case of grave human rights violations (path 2).