bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The maintenance conversion scheduling problem: Models and insights
Authors: Bowers Melissa R. , Bichescu Bogdan C. , Bryan Nana , Polak George G. , Gilbert Kenneth , Keene Doug
Published: May 2022

The maintenance conversion scheduling problem (MCSP) is faced by organizations such as those in the airline, defense, heavy equipment, and transportation industries switching from an asset maintenance program with longer, less‐frequent service visits to one with shorter, more frequent visits. One example is the United States Air Force (USAF) High Velocity Maintenance program piloted at the Warner Robbins Air Logistics Center on the C‐130 aircraft line. The USAF MCSP is complex, as planners must schedule significantly more aircraft depot maintenance visits during the conversion period and must determine the timing and specific order in which each aircraft completes a repetitive sequence of maintenance visits. The conversion is expected to yield a stable long‐term maintenance schedule, while balancing annual depot workload and operating within reasonable flow times and work‐in‐process levels. While practically important, this problem has received little to no attention in the literature. Therefore, this research formalizes the general MCSP within an optimization framework, shows the MCSP is NP‐complete, proposes a computationally effective solution approach, and shows that a balanced long‐term schedule depends critically on the conversion period schedule. Our solutions are markedly better than USAF proposed schedules and underscore the value of leveraging synergies between asset availability and maintenance efficiency. Our approach moves the focus away from batch scheduling toward a smoother, more uniform, mixed‐model type schedule that yields more stable maintenance operations and a more consistent, predictable level of aircraft readiness. The manuscript concludes with a discussion of the main theoretical and practical implications of our work.
Event‐triggered output tracking control for switched systems: An adaptive stay interval scheme
Authors: Qi Yiwen , Yu Wenke , Huang Jie , Yu Yang
Published: May 2022

This article studies output tracking control for switched systems with an adaptive stay interval based event‐triggering scheme. By considering limited communication and computation resources, an event‐triggering scheme based on stay interval is adopted. To further improve the adjustment capability of network communication, an adaptive stay interval which can be changed depend on system performance is presented. A class of tracking controllers with error integral terms are applied to make switched systems have more accurate tracking performance. Then, closed‐loop switched systems that composed by system state and tracking error are modeled, and a set of sufficient conditions for ensuring systems achieve the desired output tracking performance is given. By using linear matrix inequalities, the controller gains and event‐triggering parameters are obtained. In particular, since variable stay interval, triggering instants, and switching instants are mutually inclusive, various cases are fully analyzed to guarantee the integrity of system performance discussion. Finally, simulation examples are shown to demonstrate the feasibility.
Carbon Dots from Natural Sources for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Ayiloor Rajesh Gopika , John Varsha Lisa , Pookunnath Santhosh Aiswarya , Krishnan Nair Ambika Athira , Thavarool Puthiyedath Vinod
Published: May 2022

Carbon dots (CD), a class of 0D nanomaterials, have gained much research attention over the years due to their uniqueness in properties such as tunable photoluminescence, biocompatibility, low toxicity, water‐solubility, and chemical stability. Converting inexpensive biomass to valuable materials highlights the synthesis and applications of biomass‐derived CDs. This review summarizes the research and development related to the synthesis, properties, and applications of biomass‐derived CDs, furnishing a comprehensive list of biomass‐derived CDs with their properties and potential applications. This review's discussions and references span the properties that equip CDs for their diverse biomedical applications, such as bioimaging, sensing, drug delivery, phototherapy, and nanomedicine.
Area deprivation and respiratory morbidities in children with bronchopulmonary dysplasia
Authors: Banwell Emma , Collaco Joseph M. , Oates Gabriela R. , Rice Jessica L. , Juarez Lucia D. , Young Lisa R. , McGrath‐Morrow Sharon A.
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Infants and children diagnosed with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) have a higher likelihood of recurrent hospitalizations and asthma‐like symptoms. Socio‐environmental factors that influence the frequency and severity of pulmonary symptoms in these children during the preschool age are poorly understood. In this study, we used the Area Deprivation Index (ADI) to evaluate the relationship between the socio‐environmental exposures in children with BPD and respiratory outcomes during the first few years of life.

Methods

A registry of subjects recruited from outpatient BPD clinics at Johns Hopkins University (n = 909) and the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (n = 125) between January 2008 and October 2021 was used. Subjects were separated into tertiles by ADI scores aggregated to ZIP codes. Caregiver questionnaires were used to assess the frequency of respiratory morbidities and acute care usage for respiratory symptoms.

Results

The mean gestational age of subjects was 26.8 ± 2.6 weeks with a mean birthweight of 909 ± 404 g. The highest tertile (most deprived) of ADI was significantly associated with emergency department visits (aOR 1.72; p = 0.009), hospital readmissions (aOR 1.66; p = 0.030), and activity limitations (aOR 1.55; p = 0.048) compared to the lowest tertile. No association was seen with steroid, antibiotic or rescue medication use, trouble breathing, or nighttime symptoms.

Conclusion

In this study, children with BPD who lived in areas of higher deprivation were more likely to be rehospitalized and have ED visits for respiratory reasons. Identifying socio‐environmental factors that contribute to adverse pulmonary outcomes in children with BPD may provide opportunities for earlier interventions to improve long‐term pulmonary outcomes.
The synergistic effects of rosehip oil and matrine against Icerya aegyptiaca (Douglas) (Hemiptera: Coccoidea) and the underlying mechanisms
Authors: Zhou Yi , Wu Jiyingzi , Lin Sukun , He Junlang , Deng Yangyang , He Jingchao , Cheng Dongmei
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

Icerya aegyptiaca (Douglas) is an important agricultural pest that has a protective wax shell. Insecticides generally fail to achieve the desired control of I. aegyptiaca because of difficulties penetrating this wax shell. Plant essential oils are rich in terpenoids and have strong penetrability and expansibility, which can enable the rapid penetration and absorption of insecticides, thereby improving the control effect. Matrine is a botanical insecticide with contact and stomach toxicity, low toxicity toward non‐target organisms and is environmentally friendly. In this study, we tested the insecticidal activity of rosehip oil (Ro)/matrine combinations and revealed the synergistic mechanism of Ro and its components with matrine in terms of physiology and biochemistry.

RESULTS

Ro/matrine combinations have strong penetrating power, enabling matrine to quickly penetrate the wax shell of I. aegyptiaca and enter the insect body. This improves the insecticidal activity and enhances inhibition of acetylcholinesterase activity. Ro and its main chemical constituents, cineole and (+)‐camphor, showed synergistic effects on matrine with synergic ratios of 4.79, 3.49 and 4.21, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Combinations of Ro, cineole and (+)‐camphor with matrine have good insecticidal effects on I. aegyptiaca while remaining safe to the environment. These combinations of biological insecticides have excellent development prospects and provide a new reference for the pest management of scale insects. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
The Performance Shift due to Light Irradiation on the Electrode of an All‐Solution‐Processed Semitransparent Polymer Solar Cell
Authors: Chen Lijia , Zhou Dachen , Yao Yanqing , Niu Lianbin , Song Qunliang
Published: May 2022

The performance shift of an all‐solution‐processed semitransparent polymer solar cell is investigated under light irradiation. All the devices are fabricated using polyethylene glycol (PEG)‐doped poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) without light treatment (different light intensity and processing time) as transparent electrode. The performance increase is observed with light irradiation for freshly fabricated devices. For the long stored devices in the glove box, their initial performance can be partially restored after light irradiation. The main reason for this performance shift is due to the increase in the conductivity of the transparent electrode PEDOT:PSS. Due to the conformation change of PEDOT chains after light irradiation, the conductivity increase and possible reduction of the contact resistance are beneficial for performance improvement.
Pulmonary pseudoaneurysm presented as a lung nodule after recovering from Covid‐19 pneumonia
Authors: Somboonviboon Dujrath , Wattanathum Anan
Published: May 2022

Pulmonary pseudoaneurysms (PAPs) are an uncommon complication of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection, although they are a potentially life‐threatening condition. We present this interesting condition of severe coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid‐19) pneumonia. The patient presented with abnormal lung nodule and developed massive haemoptysis after recovering from Covid‐19 pneumonia. PAP was diagnosed by computed tomography angiography. Endovascular embolization was performed and the bleeding was stopped.
Fixed‐time output feedback stabilization of a class of high‐order planar nonlinear systems
Authors: Yao Qijia
Published: May 2022

In this article, the fixed‐time output feedback stabilization of a class of high‐order planar nonlinear systems is addressed. A fixed‐time output feedback controller is originally designed by using the bi‐limit homogeneous method and integrating with an auxiliary filter to estimate the unmeasured state. The local fixed‐time stability of the resulting closed‐loop system is theoretically proved. Moreover, the proposed controller is structurally simple and has the strong robustness against uncertainties, which makes it affordable for practical applications. Finally, numerical simulations are presented to verify the effectiveness and advantages of the proposed controller.
Relationships between land use and stream chemistry in the Mulberry River basin, Arkansas
Authors: Burgess‐Conforti Jason R. , Moore Philip A. , Owens Phillip R. , Miller David M. , Ashworth Amanda J. , Hays Phillip D. , Evans‐White Michelle A. , Anderson Kelsey R.
Published: May 2022

The Mulberry River in Arkansas is one of America's National Wild and Scenic Rivers and has been listed as impaired for low pH since 2008. Stream chemistry is directly related to land use and changes in land use can result in degradation of surface waters. Growth of conifers, through afforestation or conversion of native hardwood stands, has been attributed to basin acidification in several regions and may be contributing acid to the Mulberry River basin. The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between land use (i.e., coniferous forest, deciduous forest, mixed forest, and pasture) and stream chemistry of 11 tributaries of the Mulberry River over a 2‐year period. Coniferous forest land use was not correlated with stream pH, neither was stream pH predicted by coniferous forest land use. Acid neutralizing capacity (ANC) was negatively correlated with, and partially predicted by coniferous land use. Total organic carbon was negatively correlated with coniferous land use and positively correlated with deciduous land use. Deciduous land use was positively correlated with SO4 and negatively correlated with total N and NO3. Spearman's rank correlation and principal component analysis identified significant inverse relationships between stream pH and NO3 and between ANC and NO3, which may suggest that HNO3 may be the primary source of acidity within the Mulberry River basin. Although no relationships were observed between coniferous land use and pH, conifer growth may be affecting the stream buffering capacity of the basin which would increase the susceptibility of the river to acidification.
Factors affecting interannual variation in diet and body lipid content of age‐0 Scaphirhynchus sturgeon in the lower Missouri River, USA
Authors: González Alin , Long James M. , Gosch Nathan J.C. , Civiello Anthony P. , Gemeinhardt Todd R.
Published: May 2022

The ability of young fish to find and consume food during early life history is an important factor affecting survival and recruitment. While dietary assessments for age‐0 Scaphirhynchus sturgeon (shovelnose sturgeon and pallid sturgeon) in the Missouri River, USA have received increased attention over the last 15 years, there is currently limited information available to evaluate long‐term trends in prey consumption and body condition. To better understand interannual factors during early‐life history, we examined foraging and body condition of age‐0 (<12.0 cm) Scaphirhynchus in relation to discharge and the availability of hypothesized foraging and food‐producing habitats at a single reach (Lexington) of the Missouri River over a span of five years (2014–2018). Relatively high discharge in 2015 led to concomitant maxima in foraging and lipid levels for age‐0 sturgeon. However, lower water levels in 2014 did not see declines in lipid content as would be expected given the low level of foraging observed that year. Additionally, the availability of hypothesized foraging and food‐producing habitats had little effect on age‐0 sturgeon prey consumption and condition in the Lexington Reach. Our results suggest that other factors in addition to river discharge may affect age‐0 sturgeon foraging and condition and more research focused on understanding the flow‐habitat relationships would be critical.
Accounting for publication bias using a bivariate trim and fill meta‐analysis procedure
Authors: Luo Chongliang , Marks‐Anglin Arielle , Duan Rui , Lin Lifeng , Hong Chuan , Chu Haitao , Chen Yong
Published: May 2022

In research synthesis, publication bias (PB) refers to the phenomenon that the publication of a study is associated with the direction and statistical significance of its results. Consequently, it may lead to biased (commonly optimistic) estimates of treatment effects. Visualization tools such as funnel plots have been widely used to investigate PB in univariate meta‐analyses. The trim and fill procedure is a nonparametric method to identify and adjust for PB. It is popular among applied scientists due to its simplicity. However, most visualization tools and PB correction methods focus on univariate outcomes. For a meta‐analysis with multiple outcomes, the conventional univariate trim and fill method can only account for different outcomes separately and thus may lead to inconsistent conclusions. In this article, we propose a bivariate trim and fill procedure to simultaneously account for PB in the presence of two outcomes that are possibly associated. Based on a recently developed galaxy plot for bivariate meta‐analysis, the proposed procedure uses a data‐driven imputation algorithm to detect and adjust PB. The method relies on the symmetry of the galaxy plot and assumes that some studies are suppressed based on a linear combination of outcomes. The method projects bivariate outcomes along a particular direction, uses the univariate trim and fill method to estimate the number of trimmed and filled studies, and yields consistent conclusions about PB. The proposed approach is validated using simulated data and is applied to a meta‐analysis of the efficacy and safety of antidepressant drugs.
Analysis of the Potential of Solar‐Assisted Heat Pumps: Technical, Market, and Social Acceptance Aspects
Authors: Palomba Valeria , Dino Giuseppe E. , Frazzica Andrea
Published: May 2022

Solar‐assisted heat pumps have the potential to increase the share of renewables in the energy systems for several cases, or to increase the flexibility of smart grids and integrated thermal‐electric grids. The development of such systems requires a comprehensive approach in which technical, market, and social acceptance are all tackled at the same time. Such a holistic approach is the main objective of the present review article. To do so, an investigation is performed by categorizing the integration approaches reported in the literature, exploiting the solar source either as a low‐temperature evaporator source or as supporting the condenser during heating operation. Furthermore, hybrid integration schematics and dual‐source approaches are discussed. Market and social aspects complete the analysis, with the aim of finally identifying the current status; the main drivers and challenges are also addressed. The reported results confirm that the exploitation of solar thermal energy can increase the achievable performance of heat pumps in a broad range of climates. A favorable regulatory/financial framework and informative campaigns for businesspersons and the wide public have been identified as the main solutions to maximize the deployment of the technology in the coming years.
A Review on Epidermal Nanogenerators: Recent Progress of the Future Self‐Powered Skins
Authors: Nguyen John Tan , Cheng Wenlong
Published: May 2022

Epidermal nanogenerators (ENGs), defined as nano‐enabled, thin, soft, and flexible skin‐like devices that can convert mechanical and thermal energy into electricity, are emerging as a promising self‐powered technology for wearable biomedical devices. This review covers the discussion of working mechanisms, design strategy, and major requirements of the state‐of‐the‐art ENGs including piezoelectric, triboelectric, pyroelectric, and hybrid. In addition, their representative applications in human–machine interface (HMI), wound healing, and wearable biomedical sensors are described. In particular, a focus has been on the narration of self‐powered ENG‐based biosensors for detecting physical, biochemical, and physiological signals. Despite the encouraging advances over the past decade, the field of ENGs remains in the early stage of development with limited real‐world adoption. There remain a number of challenges such as insufficient energy and power density for powering wearable devices, poor air permeability, limited washability, and durability under severe conditions. The future opportunity lies at the development of better materials and/or designs to tackle these challenges to generate real‐world impact.
Lead pulling as a welfare concern in pet dogs: What can veterinary professionals learn from current research?
Authors: Townsend Lesley , Dixon Laura , Buckley Louise
Published: May 2022

Veterinary professionals (VPs) are often the first source of advice for clients struggling with their dog's behaviour, and pulling on the lead is a commonplace undesirable behaviour VPs will encounter regularly in practice. Excluding bites, being pulled over while walking on a lead is the leading cause of non‐fatal dog‐related injuries in the UK. This narrative review investigates lead pulling as a welfare concern in pet dogs, highlighting aspects of the literature of particular interest to VPs.

Lead pulling could negatively affect walk quality, frequency and duration, causing weight gain, while decreased environmental enrichment could trigger other undesirable behaviours. Aversive equipment to prevent lead pulling can cause pain, distress and injury, but even equipment considered humane can have welfare consequences. Punitive training methods could cause dogs stress, fear and anxiety and trigger aggressive behaviour. While these lead pulling outcomes are welfare concerns in themselves, they could also weaken dog–owner attachment, a risk factor in pet dog relinquishment.

Given lead pulling could affect the welfare of patients in a VPs care, clinical implications and opportunities for client education are outlined. Educating clients on humane prevention and modification of lead pulling could make walks easier, safer and more enjoyable, with positive outcomes for clients, canine welfare and the practice.
Understanding astrocyte differentiation: Clinical relevance, technical challenges, and new opportunities in the omics era
Authors: Lattke Michael , Guillemot Francois
Published: May 2022

Astrocytes are a major type of glial cells that have essential functions in development and homeostasis of the central nervous system (CNS). Immature astrocytes in the developing CNS support neuronal maturation and possess neural‐stem‐cell‐like properties. Mature astrocytes partially lose these functions but gain new functions essential for adult CNS homeostasis. In pathological conditions, astrocytes become “reactive”, which disrupts their mature homeostatic functions and reactivates some immature astrocyte‐like properties, suggesting a partial reversal of astrocyte maturation. The loss of homeostatic astrocyte functions contributes to the pathogenesis of various neurological conditions, and therefore activating maturation‐promoting mechanisms may be a promising therapeutic strategy to restore homeostasis. Manipulating the mechanisms underlying astrocyte maturation might also allow to facilitate CNS regeneration by enhancing developmental functions of adult astrocytes. However, such therapeutic strategies are still some distance away because of our limited understanding of astrocyte differentiation and maturation, due to biological and technical challenges, including the high degree of similarity of astrocytes with neural stem cells and the shortcomings of astrocyte markers. Current advances in systems biology have a huge potential to overcome these challenges. Recent transcriptomic analyses have already revealed new astrocyte markers and new regulators of astrocyte differentiation. However, the epigenomic changes that presumably occur during astrocyte differentiation remain an important, largely unexplored area for future research. Emerging technologies such as CRISPR/Cas9‐based functional screens will further improve our understanding of the mechanisms underlying astrocyte differentiation. This may open up new clinical approaches to restore homeostasis in neurological disorders and/or promote CNS regeneration.

This article is categorized under:

Neurological Diseases > Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics

Neurological Diseases > Stem Cells and Development

Neurological Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology
Detection, Gender Violence and Atkinson’s Jackson Brodie Series
Authors: Domínguez-García Beatriz
Published: May 2022

The success of Kate Atkinson’s crime fiction series (starting with Case Histories, 2004, and continuing with Big Sky, 2019) brought Jackson Brodie to the TV under the title Case Histories, commissioned by the BBC for one season (airing in 2011), and a second season (in 2013, slightly changing in format). Throughout the fiction series, Brodie has been constructed as a vulnerable subject, continuing a tradition of the second half of the twentieth century that broke up with the hard-boiled image of the male detective. The question under scrutiny here is how the fiction character has been modelled to construct its television counterpart for a transnational audience. Taking into consideration issues of vulnerability, accountability and its humane social formulation, this analysis will show how the changes needed for the TV seems to erase whatever social critique appears in the fiction series.
Conclusion: The Government Responsibility
Authors: Ibrahim Jimoh , Loch Christoph , Sengupta Kishore
Published: May 2022

This chapter offers “final words”—it briefly summarizes the key findings and the key recommendations, emphasizing that these are merely suggestions for what the Nigerian government (and possibly other African governments) might be able to learn from project failures in the past and what they might be able to do about this. But these are technical recommendations that might well be modified and changed—action will depend on political will, and the responsibility for political will lies with the heads of government.
Structure of the Investigation
Authors: Ibrahim Jimoh , Loch Christoph , Sengupta Kishore
Published: May 2022

Since no systematic data is available in Nigeria (only anecdotes), an original data set was collected of 114 detailed questionnaires from 3 different people involved in each of 38 projects (19 abandoned, and 19 completed). The projects are matched by sector and size to allow comparisons, and three respondents per project reduce biases.

While quantitative data allows “objective” statistical analysis, 11 of the projects were in addition described in detail in case study narratives, bringing the events to life and verifying the causality of interpretations. The case study analysis complements and enriches the statistical data analysis. This chapter explains the process of the investigation and why and what method design choices were made.
Insights from the Analysis of the Questionnaires
Authors: Ibrahim Jimoh , Loch Christoph , Sengupta Kishore
Published: May 2022

This chapter presents the statistical (econometric) identification of the most important success drivers of the projects in the sample. The chapter first compresses the 41 questionnaire variables (which contain duplication for robustness sake) into 5 success factors. Then, regressions identify which success factors drive the probability of project completion and which factors drive budget and schedule overruns (for the completed projects).

The economic levers are huge—the regressions identify that moderately improving the success factors can double completion chances and save hundreds of millions of dollars. The role of corruption becomes apparent: not only does it depress completion chances and inflate the budgets, but it also compromises the effectiveness of the other success factors.
Diversity im Arbeitsalltag: Eine Perspektive von Mitarbeitenden in der MINT-Branche
Authors: Genkova Petia , Schreiber Henrik
Published: May 2022

Im folgenden Kapitel wird eine Studie zum Umgang mit Diversity in verschiedenen Unternehmen aus Sicht der Mitarbeitenden mit und ohne Diversitätscharakteristika vorgestellt. Durch den demografischen Wandel und Zuwanderung gewinnt das Thema Diversity Management in der MINT-Branche (Mathematik, Informatik, Naturwissenschaften, Technik) zunehmend an Bedeutung. Die MINT-Branche ist von dieser Entwicklung besonders betroffen, da sie durch ein hohes Maß an internationaler Flexibilität auf dem Arbeitsmarkt gekennzeichnet ist. Gleichzeitig liegen nur wenig wissenschaftliche Befunde über die Einstellungen und Perspektiven von Mitarbeitenden aus diesem wirtschaftlich höchst relevanten Bereich vor. Aus diesem Grund wurden im Projekt „Diversität Nutzen und Annehmen“ die Themenbereiche Diversity Beliefs, interkulturelle Kompetenz, Faultlines und Stereotypenbedrohung in Organisationen in der MINT-Branche explorativ untersucht. Insgesamt nahmen 16 Mitarbeitende, mit und ohne Migrationshintergrund, verschiedener deutscher Unternehmen aller Größen an der qualitativen Befragung teil. Die Ergebnisse der Untersuchung zeigen, dass allgemein eine positive Haltung zu kultureller Diversität (positive Diversity Beliefs) bei den Befragten vorhanden ist. Gerade Mitarbeitende, die im beruflichen Kontext häufig interkulturelle Interaktionen erleben, waren offener gegenüber Diversity eingestellt und konnten einen Mehrwert von Diversity bestätigen. Gleichzeitig geht diese allgemein positive Einstellung in der überwiegenden Zahl der Fälle mit geringerer systematischer Handlungskompetenz und geringem Perspektivenwechsel einher. Während die Befragten mit Migrationshintergrund Gruppengrenzen(Faultlines) zwischen sich und den Personen ohne Migrationshintergrund wahrnahmen, waren diese den Mitarbeitenden ohne Migrationshintergrund nicht bewusst. Die Ergebnisse verdeutlichen, dass besonders in diesem hochgradig internationalisierten Bereich und trotz allgemein positiv scheinender Einstellungen Diversity gezielt gefördert werden muss, um Benachteiligung zu verhindern und die Potenziale von Vielfalt nutzbar zu machen.
Implikationen zur Vielfalt für den Übergang in Beschäftigung – MINT-Studierende und MINT-Beschäftigte
Authors: Semke Edwin , Juric-Kacunic Marela
Published: May 2022

In diesem Kapitel wird anhand qualitativer Interviews komparativ untersucht, welche Vorstellungen von Vielfalt MINT-Studierende und Beschäftigte in der MINT-Branche haben. Die Wirkung und die Berücksichtigung der Vielfalt in den Institutionen Hochschule und Betrieb wird aus Sicht der Studierenden und der Beschäftigten dargestellt und verglichen. Grundsätzlich bewerten die Befragten den Umgang mit Diversität an Hochschulen positiver als in Unternehmen. Obwohl in einzelnen Unternehmen, die an dieser Studie teilgenommen habe, ein sehr positiver Umgang mit Diversität vorherrscht, deuten die Ergebnisse darauf hin, dass insgesamt ein erhebliches Verbesserungspotenzial besteht.
Die Rolle von Erziehungsstilen für den Zusammenhang von Auslandsaufenthalten, Selbstwirksamkeit und interkultureller Kompetenz
Authors: Genkova Petia , Fässler Verena , Schreiber Henrik
Published: May 2022

Aufgrund der zentralen Bedeutung interkultureller Interaktion in der globalisierten Welt ist die Entwicklung der interkulturellen Kompetenz von Studierenden während Auslandsaufenthalten von hoher Bedeutung für Wissenschaft und Praxis. In diesem Kapitel liefern und testen wir einen theoretischen Rahmen, der die Selbstwirksamkeitstheorie des Lernens mit interkulturellem Lernen verbindet. Zu diesem Zweck wurde der Zusammenhang zwischen Auslandsaufenthalt, Selbstwirksamkeit, interkulturelle Kompetenz und dem erinnerten Erziehungsstil als moderierende Variable von deutschen Studierenden (N = 203) mittels einer Querschnittsstudie untersucht. Es konnte gezeigt werden, dass Selbstwirksamkeit den Zusammenhang zwischen der Dauer eines Auslandsaufenthaltes und interkultureller Kompetenz in Abhängigkeit von der Wahrnehmung eines emotional warmen Erziehungsstils der Eltern mediiert. Entgegen unserer Annahmen moderieren die Erziehungsstile Kontrolle und Bestrafung nicht den Zusammenhang von Dauer des Auslandsaufenthalts und Selbstwirksamkeit. Dieses Kapitel soll zum Verständnis des interkulturellen Lernens als Ergebnis der Bewältigung interkultureller Herausforderungen beitragen.
Dark magnetic dipole property in fermionic absorption by nucleus and electrons
Authors: Li Tong , Liao Jiajun , Zhang Rui-Jia
Published: May 2022

Abstract

The fermionic dark matter (DM) absorption by nucleus or electron targets provides a distinctive signal to search for sub-GeV DM. We consider a Dirac fermion DM charged under a dark gauge group and with the dark magnetic dipole operator. The DM field mixes with right-handed neutrino and interacts with the ordinary electromagnetic charge current via the kinetic mixing term of gauge fields. As a result, the incoming DM is absorbed and converted into neutrino in final state through the dipole-charge interaction. For the DM absorption by nucleus, the recoil energy spectrum exhibit a peak at $$ {m}_{\upchi}^2/2{m}_N $$

m
χ
2

/
2

m
N

for each isotope in the target. XENON1T can probe the DM mass above 27 MeV and the projected constraint on the inelastic DM-nucleon cross section becomes 10−49 cm2. CRESSTIII with lower energy threshold would be sensitive to the DM mass above 2 MeV. We also check that the contribution from the nuclear magnetic dipole is negligible for 131Xe target. The absorption of DM by bound electron target induces ionization signal and is sensitive to sub-MeV DM mass. The involvement of the ionization form factor spreads out the localized recoil energy. We show the future prospect for the constraint on the magnetic dipole coupling from the electron ionization of 131Xe.
Symptom relief, prognostic factors, and outcome in patients receiving urgent radiation therapy for superior vena cava syndrome
Authors: Guhlich Manuel , Maag Teresa Esther , Dröge Leif Hendrik , El Shafie Rami A. , Hille Andrea , Donath Sandra , Schirmer Markus Anton , Knaus Olga , Nauck Friedemann , Overbeck Tobias Raphael , Hinterthaner Marc , Körber Wolfgang , Andreas Stefan , Rittmeyer Achim , Leu Martin , Rieken Stefan
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS) often results from external vessel compression due to tumor growth. Urgent symptom-guided radiotherapy (RT) remains a major treatment approach in histologically proven, rapidly progressive disease. Despite several publications, recent data concerning symptom relief and oncological outcome as well as potential confounders in treatment response are still scarce.

Methods

We performed a retrospective single-center analysis of patients receiving urgent RT between 2000 and 2021 at the University Medical Center Göttingen. Symptom relief was evaluated by CTCAE score during the RT course. Effects of variables on symptom relief were assessed by logistic regression. The impact of parameters on overall survival (OS) was evaluated using Kaplan–Meier plot along with the log-rank test and by Cox regression analyses. Statistically significant (p-value < 0.05) confounders were tested in multivariable analyses.

Results

A total of 79 patients were included. Symptom relief was achieved in 68.4%. Mean OS was 59 days, 7.6% (n = 6) of patients showed long-term survival (> 2 years). Applied RT dose > 39 Gy, clinical target volume (CTV) size < 387 ml, concomitant chemotherapy, and completion of the prescribed RT course were found to be statistically significant for OS; applied RT dose and completion of the prescribed RT course were found to be statistically significant for symptom relief.

Conclusion

Symptom relief by urgent RT for SVCS was achieved in the majority of patients. RT dose and completion of the RT course were documented as predictors for OS and symptom relief, CTV < 387 ml and concomitant chemotherapy were predictive for OS.
Fluorescence signal of proteins in birch pollen distorted within its native matrix: Identification of the fluorescence suppressor quercetin-3-O-sophoroside
Authors: Seifried Teresa M. , Bieber Paul , Weiss Victor U. , Pittenauer Ernst , Allmaier Günter , Marchetti-Deschmann Martina , Grothe Hinrich
Published: May 2022

The properties of biogenic aerosol strongly depend on the particle’s proteinaceous compounds. Proteins from primary biological aerosol particles (PBAPs) can cause allergic reactions in the human respiratory system or act as ice and condensation nuclei in clouds. Consequently, these particles have high impact on human health and climate. The detection of biogenic aerosol is commonly performed with fluorescence-based techniques. However, many PBAPs (i.e., pollen of birch, mugwort, or ragweed) show weak or rather low fluorescence signals in the particular protein region (λex ~ 255–280 nm, λem ~ 280–350 nm). We hypothesize that the fluorescence signal of proteins present in birch pollen is being distorted within its native matrix. In this study, we conducted in vitro quenching experiments and employed UV/Vis spectroscopy, capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE), liquid chromatography (LC), electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI–MS), and multistage MS (MS2 and MS3) to target major components in birch pollen washing water (BPWW) possibly quenching the fluorescence activity of proteins and thus explaining the lack of corresponding protein fluorescent signals. We identified quercetin-3-O-sophoroside (Q3OS, MW 626 g mol−1) to be the main UV/Vis absorbing component in BPWW. Our results point out that Q3OS suppresses the fluorescence of proteins in our samples predominantly due to inner filter effects. In general, when applying fluorescence spectroscopy to analyze and detect PBAPs in the laboratory or the atmosphere, it is important to critically scrutinize the obtained spectra.

Graphical abstract
Selection of an impedance- or magnetic field-based electro-anatomical mapping platform does not affect outcomes of outflow tract premature ventricular complex manual ablation
Authors: Ábrahám Pál , Ambrus Mercédesz , Herczeg Szilvia , Szegedi Nándor , Nagy Klaudia Vivien , Salló Zoltán , Perge Péter , Osztheimer István , Széplaki Gábor , Tahin Tamás , Merkely Béla , Gellér László
Published: May 2022

Comparative data are virtually missing about the performance of different electro-anatomical mapping (EAM) system platforms on outflow tract (OT) premature ventricular complex (PVC) ablation outcomes with manual ablation catheters. We aimed to compare the acute success-, complication-, and long-term recurrence rates of impedance-based (IMP) and magnetic field-based (MAG) EAM platforms in manual OT PVC ablation. Single-centre, propensity score matched data of 39–39 patients ablated for OT PVCs in 2015–17 with IMP or MAG platforms were analysed. Acute success rate, peri-procedural complications, post-ablation daily PVC burden, and long-term recurrence rates were compared on intention-to-treat basis. Acute success rate was similar in the IMP and MAG group (77 vs. 82%, p = 0.78). There was a single case of femoral pseudo-aneurysm and no cardiac tamponade occurred. PVC burden fell significantly from baseline 24.0% [15.0–30.0%] to 3.3% [0.25–10.5%] (p < 0.001) post-ablation, with no difference between EAM platforms (IMP: 2.6% [0.5–12.0%] vs. MAG: 4.0% [2.0–6.5%]; p = 0.60). There was no significant difference in recurrence-free survival of the intention-to-treat cohort of the IMP and MAG groups (54 vs. 60%, p = 0.82, respectively) during 12 months of follow-up. Ablation with the aid of both impedance- and magnetic field-based EAM platforms can considerably reduce OT PVC burden and give similar acute- and long-term freedom from arrhythmia.
ICU tracheotomies in patients with COVID-19: a lesson learned for future viral pandemic
Authors: Agata Gradys , Jakub Szrama , Piotr Nogal , Małgorzata Wierzbicka , Krzysztof Kusza
Published: May 2022

Introduction

The coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has resulted in a large number of patients requiring intubation and prolonged mechanical ventilation. The current knowledge on the tracheotomies regarding the time form intubation, method and ventilatory parameters optimal for their performance in the mechanically ventilated patients with COVID ARDS are scarce; thus, the aim of this study is to present new data regarding their safety, adverse events and timing.

Materials and methods

This retrospective observational study is based on the data of 66 critically ill COVID patients including demographic data, timing and technique of tracheotomy, ventilatory parameters in the time of procedure, as well as complication and survival rate.

Results

A number of 66 patients with COVID-related pneumonia were included in the study, among whom 32 were tracheotomized—25 patients underwent an early tracheotomy and 7 patients had late tracheotomy. The median duration of mechanical ventilation before the tracheotomy in the early group was 8 days (IQR 6–10) compared to 11 days (IQR 11–12.5.) p < 0.001) in late group. Risk of death in tracheotomy patients was significantly growing with growing level of PEEP and FiO2 at the moment of decision on tracheotomy, OR = 1.91 CI95 (1.23;3.57); p = 0.014 and OR = 1.18 CI95(1.03;1.43); p = 0.048, respectively.

Conclusion

Early percutaneous tracheotomy is safe (both in terms of risk of viral transmission and complication rate) and feasible in COVID-19 patients. Stability of gas exchange, and ventilatory parameters are the main prognostic factors of the outcome.
A multi-step genomic approach prioritized TBKBP1 gene as relevant for multiple sclerosis susceptibility
Authors: Sorosina Melissa , Barizzone Nadia , Clarelli Ferdinando , Anand Santosh , Lupoli Sara , Salvi Erika , Mangano Eleonora , Bordoni Roberta , Roostaei Tina , Mascia Elisabetta , Zuccalà Miriam , Vecchio Domizia , Cavalla Paola , Santoro Silvia , Ferrè Laura , Zollo Alen ,   PROGEMUS, Florio Lucia , Ragonese Paolo , Gajofatto Alberto , Scarpini Elio , Caputo Domenico , Gasperini Claudio , Granella Franco , Cavalla Paola , Bergamaschi Roberto , Ristori Giovanni , Solaro Claudio , Martinelli Boneschi Filippo , Passantino Francesco , Pugliatti Maura , Gallo Antonio , Brambilla Laura , Clerico Marinella , Capone Fioravante , Trojano Maria , Barlassina Cristina , Cusi Daniele , Martinelli Vittorio , Comi Giancarlo , Leone Maurizio , Filippi Massimo , Patsopoulos Nikolaos A. , De Jager Philip L. , De Bellis Gianluca , Esposito Federica , D’Alfonso Sandra , Martinelli Boneschi Filippo
Published: May 2022

Background

Over 200 genetic loci have been associated with multiple sclerosis (MS) explaining ~ 50% of its heritability, suggesting that additional mechanisms may account for the “missing heritability” phenomenon.

Objective

To analyze a large cohort of Italian individuals to identify markers associated with MS with potential functional impact in the disease.

Methods

We studied 2571 MS and 3234 healthy controls (HC) of continental Italian origin. Discovery phase included a genome wide association study (1727 MS, 2258 HC), with SNPs selected according to their association in the Italian cohort only or in a meta-analysis of signals with a cohort of European ancestry (4088 MS, 7144 HC). Top associated loci were then tested in two Italian cohorts through array-based genotyping (903 MS, 884 HC) and pool-based target sequencing (588 MS, 408 HC). Finally, functional prioritization through conditional eQTL and mQTL has been performed.

Results

Top associated signals overlap with already known MS loci on chromosomes 3 and 17. Three SNPs (rs4267364, rs8070463, rs67919208), all involved in the regulation of TBKBP1, were prioritized to be functionally relevant.

Conclusions

No evidence of novel signal of association with MS specific for the Italian continental population has been found; nevertheless, two MS loci seems to play a relevant role, raising the interest to further investigations for TBKBP1 gene.
ePHex: a phase 3, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized study to evaluate long-term efficacy and safety of Oxalobacter formigenes in patients with primary hyperoxaluria
Authors: Ariceta Gema , Collard Laure , Abroug Saoussen , Moochhala Shabbir H. , Gould Edward , Boussetta Abir , Ben Hmida Mohamed , De Sudarsana , Hunley Tracy E. , Jarraya Faical , Fraga Gloria , Banos Ana , Lindner Elisabeth , Dehmel Bastian , Schalk Gesa
Published: May 2022

Background

Primary hyperoxalurias (PHs) are rare genetic diseases that increase the endogenous level of oxalate, a waste metabolite excreted predominantly by the kidneys and also the gut. Treatments aim to improve oxalate excretion, or reduce oxalate generation, to prevent kidney function deterioration. Oxalobacter formigenes is an oxalate metabolizing bacterium. This Phase III, double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized trial investigated the effectiveness of orally administered Oxabact™, a lyophilized O. formigenes formulation, at reducing plasma oxalate levels in patients suffering from PH.

Methods

Subjects (≥ 2 years of age) with a diagnosis of PH and maintained but suboptimal kidney function (mean estimated glomerular filtration rate at baseline < 90 mL/min/1.73 m2) were eligible to participate. Subjects were randomized to receive Oxabact or placebo twice daily for 52 weeks. Change from baseline in plasma oxalate concentration at Week 52 was the primary study endpoint.

Results

Forty-three subjects were screened, 25 were recruited and one was discontinued. At Week 52, O. formigenes was established in the gut of subjects receiving Oxabact. Despite decreasing plasma oxalate level in subjects treated with Oxabact, and stable/increased levels with placebo, there was no significant difference between groups in the primary outcome (Least Squares mean estimate of treatment difference was − 3.80 μmol/L; 95% CI: − 7.83, 0.23; p-value = 0.064). Kidney function remained stable in both treatments.

Conclusions

Oxabact treatment may have stabilized/reduced plasma oxalate versus a rise with placebo, but the difference over 12 months was not statistically significant (p = 0.06). A subtle effect observed with Oxabact suggests that O. formigenes may aid in preventing kidney stones.

Graphical abstract

A higher resolution version of the Graphical abstract is available as Supplementary information.
Physiological mechanisms of the impact of heat during pregnancy and the clinical implications: review of the evidence from an expert group meeting
Authors: Samuels Louisa , Nakstad Britt , Roos Nathalie , Bonell Ana , Chersich Matthew , Havenith George , Luchters Stanley , Day Louise-Tina , Hirst Jane E. , Singh Tanya , Elliott-Sale Kirsty , Hetem Robyn , Part Cherie , Sawry Shobna , Le Roux Jean , Kovats Sari
Published: May 2022

Many populations experience high seasonal temperatures. Pregnant women are considered vulnerable to extreme heat because ambient heat exposure has been linked to pregnancy complications including preterm birth and low birthweight. The physiological mechanisms that underpin these associations are poorly understood. We reviewed the existing research evidence to clarify the mechanisms that lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes in order to inform public health actions. A multi-disciplinary expert group met to review the existing evidence base and formulate a consensus regarding the physiological mechanisms that mediate the effect of high ambient temperature on pregnancy. A literature search was conducted in advance of the meeting to identify existing hypotheses and develop a series of questions and themes for discussion. Numerous hypotheses have been generated based on animal models and limited observational studies. There is growing evidence that pregnant women are able to appropriately thermoregulate; however, when exposed to extreme heat, there are a number of processes that may occur which could harm the mother or fetus including a reduction in placental blood flow, dehydration, and an inflammatory response that may trigger preterm birth. There is a lack of substantial evidence regarding the processes that cause heat exposure to harm pregnant women. Research is urgently needed to identify what causes the adverse outcomes in pregnancy related to high ambient temperatures so that the impact of climate change on pregnant women can be mitigated.
A Numerical Characterisation of Unconfined Strength of Weakly Consolidated Granular Packs and Its Effect on Fluid-Driven Fracture Behaviour
Authors: Gago Paula A. , Konstantinou Charalampos , Biscontin Giovanna , King Peter
Published: May 2022

Soft or weakly consolidated sand refers to porous materials composed of particles (or grains) weakly held together to form a solid but that can be easily broken when subjected to stress. These materials do not behave as conventional brittle, linear elastic materials and the transition between these two regimes cannot usually be described using poro-elastic models. Furthermore, conventional geotechnical sampling techniques often result in the destruction of the cementation and recovery of sufficient intact core is, therefore, difficult. This paper studies a numerical model that allows us to introduce weak consolidation in granular packs. The model, based on the LIGGGHTS open source project, simply adds an attractive contribution to particles in contact. This simple model allows us to reproduce key elements of the behaviour of the stress observed in compacted sands and clay, as well as in poorly consolidated sandstones. The paper finishes by inspecting the effect of different consolidation levels in fluid-driven fracture behaviour. Numerical results are compared qualitatively against experimental results on bio-cemented sandstones.