bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SaliVISION: a rapid saliva-based COVID-19 screening and diagnostic test with high sensitivity and specificity
Authors: DeFina Samuel M. , Wang Jianhui , Yang Lei , Zhou Han , Adams Jennifer , Cushing William , Tuohy Beth , Hui Pei , Liu Chen , Pham Kien
Published: April 2022

The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic-caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)– has posed a global threat and presented with it a multitude of economic and public-health challenges. Establishing a reliable means of readily available, rapid diagnostic testing is of paramount importance in halting the spread of COVID-19, as governments continue to ease lockdown restrictions. The current standard for laboratory testing utilizes reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR); however, this method presents clear limitations in requiring a longer run-time as well as reduced on-site testing capability. Therefore, we investigated the feasibility of a reverse transcription looped-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP)-based model of rapid COVID-19 diagnostic testing which allows for less invasive sample collection, named SaliVISION. This novel, two-step, RT-LAMP assay utilizes a customized multiplex primer set specifically targeting SARS-CoV-2 and a visual report system that is ready to interpret within 40 min from the start of sample processing and does not require a BSL-2 level testing environment or special laboratory equipment. When compared to the SalivaDirect and Thermo Fisher Scientific TaqPath RT-qPCR testing platforms, the respective sensitivities of the SaliVISION assay are 94.29% and 98.28% while assay specificity was 100% when compared to either testing platform. Our data illustrate a robust, rapid diagnostic assay in our novel RT-LAMP test design, with potential for greater testing throughput than is currently available through laboratory testing and increased on-site testing capability.
Spatial cover and carbon fluxes of urbanized Sonoran Desert biological soil crusts
Authors: Gallas Genna , Pavao-Zuckerman Mitchell
Published: April 2022

Biological soil crusts (BSC) are important contributors to nutrient cycling in arid environments such as the Sonoran Desert. BSC at an urban (University Indian Ruins) and at a non-urban site (Santa Rita Experimental Range) were compared to determine if their structure or function was influenced by proximity to an urban environment. The Step Point method was used in the field to determine ground cover; which was found to be similar between sites. However, the spatial distribution of the BSCs was significantly different, such that more BSCs were found under plants at the non-urban site (P < 0.05). Relative gross photosynthesis was measured in the lab by addition of a watering event. Gross photosynthesis was found to be higher in the non-urban BSCs (P < 0.001), indicating lowered productivity in urban BSCs due to effects caused by proximity to urban environments. This study provides evidence that BSCs at urbanized sites are affected functionally, and therefore may be contributing differently to carbon and nitrogen cycling in these ecosystems.
New magnetic anomaly map for the Red Sea reveals transtensional structures associated with rotational rifting
Authors: Issachar Ran , Ebbing Jörg , Dilixiati Yixiati
Published: April 2022

The Red Sea is a modern analogue for studying continental break-up. Particularly, the Red Sea shows along-strike variability in the architecture, magmatism and associated style of rifting. In order to study these variabilities, continuous geophysical data that cover the entire length of the basin is desired. Our study aims to produce a continuous, reliable and robust magnetic anomaly map for the Red Sea. We present a new magnetic anomaly map for the Red Sea, derived from re-processing of shipborne data, merged and conformed to a recent satellite model, LCS-1. The new magnetic map reveals prominent patterns of magnetic anomalies in sub-perpendicular directions to the Red Sea, with a northward increase in obliquity. We provide further analysis for the magnetic data and associate sets of magnetic trends with transtensional basement structures. Directional analysis suggests a gradual increase in shear component along the Red Sea. The magnetic trends are coaxial with independent indicators of finite and instantaneous strains, and thus implies that these structures and their variability are related to the kinematic framework of the rift. We discuss the consequences of rifting close to the Euler pole, i.e. rotational rifting, and argue that both passive and active forces can explain an increased along-strike transtension, and accordingly the associated variability along the Red Sea.
Preoperative quadriceps muscle strength deficit severity predicts knee function one year after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction
Authors: Kim Do Kyung , Park Geon , Wang Joon Ho , Kuo Liang-Tseng , Park Won Hah
Published: April 2022

Quadriceps strength is critical for patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction; however, little is known about the relationship between preoperative quadriceps strength deficit and postoperative subjective knee functions. The study aimed to investigate the relationship between preoperative quadriceps strength and postoperative knee function in patients after ACL reconstruction. Seventy-five male patients with primary ACL reconstruction surgery with hamstring autografts between 2014 and 2017 were included. An isokinetic dynamometer assessed quadriceps strength while self-reported knee functions were measured by the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) and Lysholm scores at baseline and 1 year after surgery. The three identified groups (Q1–Q3) were classified according to the preoperative quadriceps muscle strength deficit. Q1 were patients with < 25% quadriceps muscle strength deficit, Q2 showed a 25–45% deficit, and Q3 included those with a deficit > 45%. We compared knee functions between the three groups and examined the associations between preoperative variables and functional knee outcomes. The preoperative quadriceps muscle strength deficit had a negative association with the knee functional scores at 1 year follow-up including the IKDC score (rs = − 0.397, p = 0.005) and the Lysholm score (rs = − 0.454, p < 0.001), but not other factors. Furthermore, only the Q1 group, with < 25% deficit in preoperative quadriceps muscle strength, showed a significant correlation in postoperative IKDC score (r = − 0.462, p = 0.030), and Lysholm score (r = − 0.446, p = 0.038). Preoperative quadriceps muscle strength deficit had a significant negative relationship with postoperative function at 1 year following ACL reconstruction.
Melatonin reduces the endoplasmic reticulum stress and polyubiquitinated protein accumulation induced by repeated anesthesia exposure in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Shin Hyun-Jung , Koo Bon-Wook , Yoon Jiwon , Kim Heeyeon , Do Sang-Hwan , Na Hyo-Seok
Published: April 2022

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress has been linked to anesthesia-induced neurotoxicity, but melatonin seems to play a protective role against ER stress. Synchronized Caenorhabditis elegans were exposed to isoflurane during the developmental period; melatonin treatment was used to evaluate its role in preventing the defective unfolded protein response (UPR) and ER-associated protein degradation (ERAD). The induced expression of hsp-4::GFP by isoflurane was attenuated in the isoflurane-melatonin group. Isoflurane upregulated the expression of ire-1, whereas melatonin did not induce ire-1 expression in C. elegans even after isoflurane exposure. With luzindole treatment, the effect of melatonin on the level of ire-1 was significantly attenuated. The reduced expression of sel-1, sel-11, cdc-48.1, and cdc-48.2 due to isoflurane was restored by melatonin, although not up to the level of the control group. The amount of polyubiquitinated proteins was increased in the isoflurane group; however, melatonin suppressed its accumulation, which was significantly inhibited by a proteasome inhibitor, MG132. The chemotaxis index of the isoflurane-melatonin group was improved compared with the isoflurane group. Melatonin may be a potential preventive molecule against defective UPR and ERAD caused by repeated anesthesia exposure. The ire-1 branch of the UPR and ERAD pathways can be the target of melatonin to reduce anesthesia-induced ER stress.
Identification of allosteric fingerprints of alpha-synuclein aggregates in matrix metalloprotease-1 and substrate-specific virtual screening with single molecule insights
Authors: Kamboj Sumaer , Harms Chase , Wright Derek , Nash Anthony , Kumar Lokender , Klein-Seetharaman Judith , Sarkar Susanta K.
Published: April 2022

Alpha-synuclein (aSyn) has implications in pathological protein aggregations in neurodegeneration. Matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) are broad-spectrum proteases and cleave aSyn, leading to aggregation. Previous reports showed that allosteric communications between the two domains of MMP1 on collagen fibril and fibrin depend on substrates, activity, and ligands. This paper reports quantification of allostery using single molecule measurements of MMP1 dynamics on aSyn-induced aggregates by calculating Forster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) between two dyes attached to the catalytic and hemopexin domains of MMP1. The two domains of MMP1 prefer open conformations that are inhibited by a single point mutation E219Q of MMP1 and tetracycline, an MMP inhibitor. A two-state Poisson process describes the interdomain dynamics, where the two states and kinetic rates of interconversion between them are obtained from histograms and autocorrelations of FRET values. Since a crystal structure of aSyn-bound MMP1 is unavailable, binding poses were predicted by molecular docking of MMP1 with aSyn using ClusPro. MMP1 dynamics were simulated using predicted binding poses and compared with the experimental interdomain dynamics to identify an appropriate pose. The selected aSyn-MMP1 binding pose near aSyn residue K45 was simulated and analyzed to define conformational changes at the catalytic site. Allosteric residues in aSyn-bound MMP1 exhibiting strong correlations with the catalytic motif residues were compared with allosteric residues in free MMP1, and aSyn-specific residues were identified. The allosteric residues in aSyn-bound MMP1 are K281, T283, G292, G327, L328, E329, R337, F343, G345, N346, Y348, G353, Q354, D363, Y365, S366, S367, F368, P371, R372, V374, K375, A379, F391, A394, R399, M414, F419, V426, and C466. Shannon entropy was defined to quantify MMP1 dynamics. Virtual screening was performed against a site on selected aSyn-MMP1 binding poses, which showed that lead molecules differ between free MMP1 and substrate-bound MMP1. Also, identifying aSyn-specific allosteric residues in MMP1 enabled further selection of lead molecules. In other words, virtual screening needs to take substrates into account for potential substrate-specific control of MMP1 activity in the future. Molecular understanding of interactions between MMP1 and aSyn-induced aggregates may open up the possibility of degrading aggregates by targeting MMPs.
An electron counting algorithm improves imaging of proteins with low-acceleration-voltage cryo-electron microscope
Authors: Zhu Dongjie , Shi Huigang , Wu Chunling , Zhang Xinzheng
Published: April 2022

Relative to the 300-kV accelerating field, electrons accelerated under lower voltages are potentially scattered more strongly. Lowering the accelerate voltage has been suggested to enhance the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) images of small-molecular-weight proteins (<100 kD). However, the detection efficient of current Direct Detection Devices (DDDs) and temporal coherence of cryo-EM decrease at lower voltage, leading to loss of SNR. Here, we present an electron counting algorithm to improve the detection of low-energy electrons. The counting algorithm increased the SNR of 120-kV and 200-kV cryo-EM image from a Falcon III camera by 8%, 20% at half the Nyquist frequency and 21%, 80% at Nyquist frequency, respectively, resulting in a considerable improvement in resolution of 3D reconstructions. Our results indicate that with further improved temporal coherence and a dedicated designed camera, a 120-kV cryo-electron microscope has potential to match the 300-kV microscope at imaging small proteins.
Experimental assessment of physical realism in a quantum-controlled device
Authors: Dieguez Pedro R. , Guimarães Jéferson R. , Peterson John P. S. , Angelo Renato M. , Serra Roberto M.
Published: April 2022

Bohr’s complementarity principle has been challenged by quantum delayed-choice experiments wherein quantum systems are claimed to behave neither as wave nor as a particle, but in an intermediary way. However, this conclusion has been supported by retro-inference and with no direct link with the system quantum state. Here, we consider a framework that employs an operational criterion of physical reality to diagnosis the system ontology directly from the quantum state at each instant of time. We show that, in disparity with previous proposals, our setup ensures a formal link between the output visibility and elements of reality within the interferometer. An experimental proof-of-principle is provided for a two-spin-1/2 system in an interferometric setup implemented in a nuclear magnetic resonance platform. We discuss how our results validate, to a great extent, Bohr’s original formulation of the complementarity principle and unveil morphing reality states.
Stimulated resonant inelastic X-ray scattering in a solid
Authors: Higley Daniel J. , Chen Zhao , Beye Martin , Hantschmann Markus , Reid Alex H. , Mehta Virat , Hellwig Olav , Dakovski Georgi L. , Mitra Ankush , Engel Robin Y. , Maxwell Tim , Ding Yuantao , Bonetti Stefano , Bucher Maximilian , Carron Sebastian , Chase Tyler , Jal Emmanuelle , Kukreja Roopali , Liu Tianmin , Föhlisch Alexander , Dürr Hermann A. , Schlotter William F. , Stöhr Joachim
Published: April 2022

When materials are exposed to X-ray pulses with sufficiently high intensity, various nonlinear effects can occur. The most fundamental one consists of stimulated electronic decays after resonant absorption of X-rays. Such stimulated decays enhance the number of emitted photons and the emission direction is confined to that of the stimulating incident photons which clone themselves in the process. Here we report the observation of stimulated resonant elastic (REXS) and inelastic (RIXS) X-ray scattering near the cobalt L3edge in solid Co/Pd multilayer samples. We observe an enhancement of order 106of the stimulated over the conventional spontaneous RIXS signal into the small acceptance angle of the RIXS spectrometer. We also find that in solids both stimulated REXS and RIXS spectra contain contributions from inelastic electron scattering processes, even for ultrashort 5 fs pulses. Our results reveal the potential and caveats of the development of stimulated RIXS in condensed matter.
Corrosion resistant and high-strength dual-phase Mg-Li-Al-Zn alloy by friction stir processing
Authors: Zeng Zhuoran , Zhou Mengran , Esmaily Marco , Zhu Yuman , Choudhary Sanjay , Griffith James C. , Ma Jisheng , Hora Yvonne , Chen Yu , Gullino Alessio , Shi Qingyu , Fujii Hidetoshi , Birbilis Nick
Published: April 2022

Magnesium is the lightest structural metal, and alloying with lithium makes it even lighter. However, multi-phase Mg-Li alloys typically undergo rapid corrosion, and their strength decreases at room temperature due to natural age-softening. Here, we engineer a rapidly degrading dual-phase Mg-Li-Al alloy to be durable via friction stir processing followed by liquid CO2 quenching. The best performing alloy has a low electrochemical degradation rate of 0.72 mg·cm−2· day−1, and high specific strength of 209 kN·m·kg−1. We attribute this electrochemical and mechanical durability to its microstructure, which consists of a refined grain size of approximately 2 µm and dense nanoprecipitates. This microstructure suppressed the formation of the detrimental AlLi phase, and an aluminium-rich protective surface layer also formed. This processing route might be useful for designing lightweight and durable engineering alloys.
Tea polyphenols alleviate the adverse effects of diabetes on oocyte quality
Authors: Lu Jun , Zhao Shu-Xian , Zhang Man-Yu , Ji Peng-Yuan , Chao Shuo , Li Li-Jun , Yin Shen , Zhao Lei , Zhao Hua , Sun Qing-Yuan , Ge Zhao-Jia
Published: April 2022

Maternal diabetes reduces oocyte quality. The decreased oocyte quality can be alleviated by tea polyphenolsin vitro, such as mitochondrial function, meiosis, and DNA damage.
Characterization of a class II ketol-acid reductoisomerase from Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Valera Ane , Wang Shan , Carr Reuben , Trembleau Laurent , Deng Hai
Published: April 2022

Biochemical characterization of an unusual class II KARI (MtKARI-II) from a Mycobacterium tuberculosis variant.
An assembly-induced-emission orthogonal supramolecular network with spirobifluorene, pillararene, and tetraphenylethylene units for efficient light harvesting
Authors: Xu Linxian , Wang Rongrong , Tang Hao , Wang Lingyun , Cao Derong
Published: April 2022

An orthogonal supramolecular network has been developed as an excellent light-harvesting system with a high antenna effect. The antenna effects were over 60 with a wide range of host/guest ratios, exhibiting good fabrication error tolerance.
Perovskites for protonic ceramic fuel cells: a review
Authors: Cao Jiafeng , Ji Yuexia , Shao Zongping
Published: April 2022

This review rearranges the most important fundamentals in PCFCs based on perovskite-type oxides, provides recent advances in the rational design of perovskite materials, and proposes some perspectives in the research of PCFCs.
6′-O-Caffeoylarbutin from Que Zui tea ameliorates acetaminophen-induced liver injuryviaenhancing antioxidant ability and regulating the PI3K signaling pathway
Authors: Wang Yong-Peng , Wang Yu-Dan , Liu Ya-Ping , Cao Jian-Xin , Yang Mei-Lian , Wang Yi-Fen , Khan Afsar , Zhao Tian-Rui , Cheng Gui-Guang
Published: April 2022

6′-O-Caffeoylarbutin from Que Zui tea ameliorates acetaminophen-induced liver injuryin vitroandin vivo.
Tunable topological electronic states in the honeycomb-kagome lattices of nitrogen/oxygen-doped graphene nanomeshes
Authors: Lu Yiming , Fan Xuejia , Ma Xikui , Liu Jian , Li Yangyang , Zhao Mingwen
Published: April 2022

The rich and exotic electronic properties of graphene nanomeshes (GNMs) have been attracting interest due to their superiority to pristine graphene.
Synergistic Lewis acid and Pd active sites of metal–organic frameworks for highly efficient carbonylation of methyl nitrite to dimethyl carbonate
Authors: Wu Han-Ying , Qin Ye-Yan , Xiao Yi-Hong , Chen Jian-Shan , Guo Rong , Wu Si-Qi , Zhang Lei , Zhang Jian , Yao Yuan-Gen
Published: April 2022

We for the first time systematically investigated a MOF UiO-66 based catalyst showing the synergistic effect of Lewis acid sites and Pd(ii) for highly efficient methyl nitrite (MN) carbonylation to dimethyl carbonate (DMC).
Preparation of calcium carbonate microrods from the gypsum scale layer of evaporation equipment
Authors: Yuan Xinsong , Chen Xiaolong , Gao Shan , Wang Yanping , Yang Liang , Zhang Qi , Chen Yiwen , Wang Bainian , Yang Baojun
Published: April 2022

The difficult-to-remove CaSO4 scale layer attached to an evaporator wall is a major problem in related industries.
Tuning composition of CuCo2S4–NiCo2S4 solid solutions via solvent-less pyrolysis of molecular precursors for efficient supercapacitance and water splitting
Authors: Shombe Ginena Bildard , Khan Malik Dilshad , Choi Jonghyun , Gupta Ram K. , Opallo Marcin , Revaprasadu Neerish
Published: April 2022

A multi-component CuCo2S4 and NiCo2S4 thiospinel solid solution is prepared over an entire range by a low-temperature solvent-less route. The synergistic effect from both thiospinels on water splitting and capacitance is studied.
Deracemization of 1-phenylethanols in a one-pot process combining Mn-driven oxidation with enzymatic reduction utilizing a compartmentalization technique
Authors: Sato Hirofumi , Yamada Rei , Watanabe Yomi , Kiryu Takaaki , Kawano Shintaro , Shizuma Motohiro , Kawasaki Hideya
Published: April 2022

PDMS thimble was the key to combining incompatible reactions to achieve deracemization of 1-phenylethanols in high yield with high optical yield.
Enhanced CO capture properties of Li2MnO3via inducing layered to spinel transition by cation doping with Fe, Co, Ni and Cu
Authors: Hernández-Fontes Carlos , Pfeiffer Heriberto
Published: April 2022

Lithium manganate (Li2MnO3) was the first alkaline ceramic to show selective CO chemisorption in non-oxidative atmospheres, which is of interest for gas separation processes, such as high purity H2 production.
Three-dimensional lattice deformation of blue phase liquid crystals under electrostriction
Authors: Zhang Yuxian , Yoshida Hiroyuki , Chu Fan , Guo Yu-Qiang , Yang Zhou , Ozaki Masanori , Wang Qiong-Hua
Published: April 2022

Determination of three-dimensional BP lattice constants using in situ measurements.
Removal of persistent textile dyes from wastewater by Fe(ii)/H2O2/H3NOH+ integrated system: process performance and limitations
Authors: Merouani Slimane , Dehane Aissa , Belghit Aouattef , Hamdaoui Oualid , El Houda Boussalem Nour , Daif Hassina
Published: April 2022

With the objective of establishing an overview of the limits of hydroxylamine-induced acceleration of the Fenton process, the impact of processing conditions and water matrix composition on the degradation of persistent dyes is revealed in this work.
Improved gradient‐based optimizer for parameters extraction of photovoltaic models
Authors: Jiang Yugui , Luo Qifang , Zhou Yongquan
Published: April 2022

An efficient operation of the solar photovoltaic (PV) system relies on accurate and reliable equivalent models and parameters. For different modular circuit models, the parameter estimation of PV solar cells is a key task that is usually translated into optimization problems solved by metaheuristic algorithms. Gradient‐based optimizer (GBO), which was proposed in 2020, is a method with swarm characteristics that was developed from Newton's method. Gradient search rule (GSR) and local escape operator (LEO) is main components of the GBO algorithm. This paper proposes an improved GBO (IGBO) optimization algorithm based on the original algorithm. In IGBO, two strategies, adaptive weights and chaotic behaviour, are introduced to adjust the adaptive parameters. The purpose of adaptive weights is to effectively approach the optimal solution and avoid falling into local optimum in different search phases of the algorithm. Chaotic behaviour aims to replace the randomness of the metaheuristic algorithm and to improve the convergence speed and accuracy of the algorithm. To validate the performance of IGBO, it is applied to the parameter extraction of different PV models. The PV models used in this paper include single diode model (SDM), double diode model (DDM) and PV module model. Finally, comparing with the original algorithm and six well‐established algorithms, the experimental data show that the IGBO algorithm is highly competitive, as reflected by the best results obtained in terms of root mean square error values. It can be concluded that IGBO is more competitive in robustness, convergence and accuracy.
The Lensed Lyman-Alpha MUSE Arcs Sample (LLAMAS)
Authors: Claeyssens A. , Richard J. , Blaizot J. , Garel T. , Kusakabe H. , Bacon R. , Bauer F. E. , Guaita L. , Jeanneau A. , Lagattuta D. , Leclercq F. , Maseda M. , Matthee J. , Nanayakkara T. , Pello R. , Thai T. T. , Tuan-Anh P. , Verhamme A. , Vitte E. , Wisotzki L.
Published: April 2022

Aims. We present the Lensed Lyman-Alpha MUSE Arcs Sample (LLAMAS) selected from MUSE and HST observations of 17 lensing clusters. The sample consists of 603 continuum-faint (−23 < MUV < −14) lensed Lyman-α emitters (producing 959 images) with secure spectroscopic redshifts between 2.9 and 6.7. Combining the power of cluster magnification with 3D spectroscopic observations, we were able to reveal the resolved morphological properties of 268 Lyman-α emitters.

Methods. We used a forward-modeling approach to model both Lyman-α and rest-frame UV continuum emission profiles in the source plane and measure spatial extent, ellipticity, and spatial offsets between UV and Lyman-α emission.

Results. We find a significant correlation between UV continuum and Lyman-α spatial extent. Our characterization of the Lyman-α halos indicates that the halo size is linked to the physical properties of the host galaxy (SFR, Lyman-α equivalent width, Lyman-α line FWHM). We find that 48% of Lyman-α halos are best fit by an elliptical emission distribution with a median axis ratio of q = 0.48. We observe that 60% of galaxies detected both in UV and Lyman-α emission show a significant spatial offset (ΔLyα − UV). We measure a median offset of ΔLyα − UV = 0.58 ± 0.14 kpc for the entire sample. By comparing the spatial offset values with the size of the UV component, we show that 40% of the offsets could be due to star-forming sub-structures in the UV component, while the larger offsets (60%) are more likely due to greater-distance processes such as scattering effects inside the circumgalactic medium or emission from faint satellites or merging galaxies. Comparisons with a zoom-in radiative hydrodynamics simulation of a typical Lyman-α emitting galaxy show a very good agreement with LLAMAS galaxies and indicate that bright star-formation clumps and satellite galaxies could produce a similar spatial offset distribution.
Pflege von Kindern und Jugendlichen neu denken?
Authors: Rohde Katrin S. , Bohrer Annerose
Published: April 2022

Die neue Pflegeausbildung legt einen Schwerpunkt auf das Lernen an und in echten beruflichen Situationen. Für die (hoch-)schulischen Ausbildungsphasen bedeutet das: Authentische berufliche Situationen aus der Pflege von Kindern und Jugendlichen müssen von Beginn an zur lernenden Auseinandersetzung mit der Kinderkrankenpflege genutzt werden. In dem Berliner Projekt „Curriculare Arbeit der Pflegeschulen in Berlin unterstützen“ (CurAP) werden solche Situationen erhoben und für die Entwicklung von Lernmaterialien genutzt. Dazu wurden unter anderem Interviews geführt und ausgewertet. In diesem Artikel finden Sie drei Schwerpunkte: einen empirischen (Interviewanalyse), einen eher didaktischen (didaktische Analyse) und einen eher definitorischen (den Blick auf die Entwicklungen im Rahmen der Generalisierung).
Thymoquinone Augments Methotrexate-Induced Apoptosis on Osteosarcoma Cells
Authors: Sanapour Narjes , Malakoti Faezeh , Shanebandi Darioush , Targhazeh Niloufar , Yousefi Bahman , Soleimanpour Jafar , Majidinia Maryam
Published: April 2022

Background Osteosarcoma (OS) as the most frequent primary bone malignancy in children and adolescents has a short survival rate in advanced stages. Alternative herbal medicines with fewer side effects or the potency to protect common therapy’s side effects can be helpful in combinational therapies. Herein, we aim to explore the effects of Thymoquinone (TQ) combined with Methotrexate (MTX) on Saos-2 cells apoptosis.

Methods The effects of TQ and MTX alone or in combination on Saos-2 cell viability were measured by MTT assay. Real-time PCR was applied for the measurement of Bax, BCL-2, and caspase-9 mRNA expression. Apoptosis evaluation was conducted by flow cytometry.

Results TQ improves the cytotoxic effects of MTX on Saos-2 cells proliferation at lower doses. Indeed, the IC50 of MTX decreased from 26 μM to 15 μM when it combined with TQ. TQ and MTX can induce the expression level of pro-apoptotic factors, Bax and caspase-9 while inhibiting anti-apoptotic protein BCL-2. Moreover, the combination of TQ and MTX potentiates apoptosis to 73%, compared to either TQ (48%) or MTX (53%) treated cells.

Conclusion The co-treatment of TQ and MTX is associated with the up-regulation of apoptotic factors and down-regulation of anti-apoptotic factors, conducting apoptosis aggravation and OS cell death.
Optimizing Fat Grafting Using a Hydraulic System Technique for Fat Processing: A Time and Cost Analysis
Authors: Verdura Vincenzo , Guastafierro Antonio , Di Pace Bruno , Faenza Mario , Nicoletti Giovanni Francesco , Rubino Corrado
Published: April 2022

Background Many authors have researched ways to optimize fat grafting by looking for a technique that offers safe and long-term fat survival rate. To date, there is no standardized protocol. We designed a “hydraulic system technique” optimizing the relationship among the quantity of injected fat, operative time, and material cost to establish fat volume cutoffs for a single procedure.

Methods Thirty-six patients underwent fat grafting surgery and were organized into three groups according to material used: standard, “1-track,” and “2-tracks” systems. The amount of harvested and grafted fat as well as material used for each procedure was collected. Operating times were recorded and statistical analysis was performed to establish the relationship with the amount of treated fat.

Results In 15 cases the standard system was used (mean treated fat 72 [30–100] mL, mean cost 4.23 ± 0.27 euros), in 11 cases the “1-track” system (mean treated fat 183.3 [120–280] mL, mean cost 7.63 ± 0.6 euros), and in 10 cases the “2-tracks” one (mean treated fat 311[220–550] mL, mean cost 12.47 ± 1 euros). The mean time difference between the standard system and the “1-track” system is statistically significant starting from three fat syringes (90 mL) in 17.66 versus 6.87 minutes. The difference between the “1-track” system and “2-tracks” system becomes statistically significant from 240 mL of fat in 15 minutes (“1-track”) versus 9.3 minutes for the “2-tracks” system.

Conclusion Data analysis would indicate the use of the standard system, “1-track,” and “2-tracks” to treat an amount of fat < 90 mL of fat, 90 ÷ 240 mL of fat, and ≥ 240 mL of fat, respectively.
Comparison of Outcomes in Immediate Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction: Acellular Dermal Matrix versus Inferior Dermal Flap
Authors: Mata Ribeiro Luís , Meireles Rita P. , Brito Irís M. , Costa Patrícia M. , Rebelo Marco A. , Barbosa Rui F. , Choupina Miguel P. , Pinho Carlos J. , Ribeiro Matilde P.
Published: April 2022

Background Implant-based breast reconstruction has evolved tremendously in the last decades, mainly due to the development of new products and techniques that make the procedure safer and more reliable. The purpose of this study was to compare the outcomes in immediate one-stage breast reconstruction between acellular dermal matrix (ADM) and inferior dermal flap (IDF).

Methods We conducted a retrospective comparative study of patients submitted to immediate breast reconstructions with an anatomical implant and ADM or IDF in a single center between 2016 and 2018. Outcomes evaluated included major complications, early complications, reinterventions, readmissions, and reconstruction failure. Simple descriptive statistics and univariate analysis were performed.

Results A total of 118 breast reconstructions (85 patients) were included in the analysis. Patients in the IDF group had a higher body mass index (median = 27.0) than patients in the ADM group (median = 24). There were no statistically significant differences among both groups regarding immediate major complication, early complications, readmissions, and reinterventions.

Conclusion There are no significant differences in complications between the ADM and IDF approach to immediate implant breast reconstruction. In patients with higher body mass index and large, ptotic breasts, we recommend an immediate implant reconstruction with IDF.
Meshed Acellular Dermal Matrix for Two-Staged Prepectoral Breast Reconstruction: An Institutional Experience
Authors: Luo Jessica , Willis Rhett N. , Ohlsen Suzanna M. , Piccinin Meghan , Moores Neal , Kwok Alvin C. , Agarwal Jayant P.
Published: April 2022

The introduction of acellular dermal matrix (ADM) to breast reconstruction has allowed surgeons to reexplore the prepectoral implant placement technique in postmastectomy breast reconstruction. Our institution adopted a novel approach using meshed ADM to lessen the financial burden of increased ADM utilization with the prepectoral breast reconstruction. This is a retrospective, single-center review of two-stage prepectoral breast reconstruction using meshed human-derived ADM for anterior prosthesis coverage. Patient demographics, oncologic data, perioperative characteristics, and complications were examined and reported as means with standard deviations. Cost-saving with the meshed technique was evaluated. Forty-eight patients (72 breasts) with a mean age of 48.5 ± 15.0 years (range 26–70 years) were included in the study. The mean follow-up time was 13.2 ± 4.4 months (range 4.1–25.8 months). Nineteen breasts (24.6%) experienced complications, with seromas being the most common complication (12.5%, n = 9). Expander removal and reoperation occurred at a rate of 8.3 and 9.7%, respectively. The average time to drain removal was 18.8 ± 6.6 days (range 8–32 days). Meshed ADM provided an average cost savings of $6,601 for unilateral and $13,202 for bilateral reconstructions. Our study found that human-derived meshed ADM can be safely used in two-staged prepectoral tissue expander-based breast reconstruction and can result in significant cost savings.
Plastic Surgeons as Medical Directors: A Natural Transition into Medical Leadership
Authors: Jalalabadi Faryan , Ferry Andrew M. , Chang Andrew , Reece Edward M. , Izaddoost Shayan A. , Hassid Victor J. , Tahiri Youssef , Buchanan Edward P. , Winocour Sebastian J.
Published: April 2022

With the growing complexity of the U.S. health care system, highly motivated medical directors with strong leadership skills are vital to the success of health care facilities. Presently, there are no articles assessing a plastic surgeon's qualifications for the role of medical director. In addition, there is a paucity of literature comparing the responsibilities of medical directors across various types of health care institutions. Herein, we outline why plastic surgeons have the unique skillset to succeed in this role and highlight the differences between medical director positions across the vast landscape of health care. While the intricacies of this position vary greatly across different landscapes of the health care industry, successful medical directors lead by following a set of universal principles predisposing them for success. Plastic surgeons innately exhibit a subset of particular traits deeming them suitable candidates for the medical director position. While transitioning from the role of a surgeon to that of a medical director does require some show of adaptation, plastic surgeons are ultimately highly likely to find intrinsic benefit from serving as a medical director.
Comprehensive Evaluation of the Current Knowledge on Breast Implant Associated-Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Yoo Hyokyung , Park Ji-Ung , Chang Hak
Published: April 2022

Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a recently spotlighted T-cell origin non-Hodgkin's lymphoma with an increasing incidence of over 800 cases and 33 deaths reported worldwide. Development of BIA-ALCL is likely a complex process involving many factors, such as the textured implant surface, bacterial biofilm growth, immune response, and patient genetics. As the incidence of BIA-ALCL is expected to increase, it is important for all surgeons and physicians to be aware of this disease entity and acquire thorough knowledge of current evidence-based guidelines and recommendations. Early detection, accurate diagnosis, and appropriate treatment are the foundations of current care.
The Medial Sural Artery Perforator Flap: A Historical Trek from Ignominious to “Workhorse”
Authors: Hallock Geoffrey G.
Published: April 2022

Rather than just another “review,” this is intended to be an “overview” of the entire subject of the medial sural artery perforator (MSAP) flap as has been presented in the reconstructive literature from its inception in 2001 until the present, with any exceptions not purposefully overlooked. Unfortunately, the pertinent anatomy of the MSAP flap is always anomalous like most other perforator flaps, and perhaps even more variable. No schematic exists to facilitate the identification of a dominant musculocutaneous perforator about which to design the flap, so some adjunctive technology may be highly valuable for this task. However, if a relatively thin free flap is desirable for a small or moderate sized defect that requires a long pedicle with larger caliber vessels, the MSAP flap deserves consideration. Indeed, for many, this has replaced the radial forearm flap such as for partial tongue reconstruction. Most consider the donor site deformity, even if only a conspicuous scar on the calf, to be a contraindication. Yet certainly if used as a local flap for the knee, popliteal fossa, or proximal leg, or as a free flap for the ipsilateral lower extremity where a significant recipient site deformity already exists, can anyone really object that this is not a legitimate indication? As with any perforator flap, advantages and disadvantages exist, which must be carefully perused before a decision to use the MSAP flap is made. Perhaps not a “workhorse” flap for general use throughout the body, the MSAP flap in general may often be a valuable alternative.
Central Auditory Processing Disorders and Reduced Motivation: Three Case Studies
Authors: Silman Shlomo , Silverman Carol A. , Emmer Michele B.
Published: April 2022

The central auditory test results for three normal-hearing children who were initially diagnosed as having a central auditory processing disorder and learning disability are presented. They were referred to the authors for second-opinion consultations. Central auditory processing retesting was performed by the authors under the condition of no reinforcement and then the condition of reinforcement with the child's favorite food, hobby, or toy. For all three cases, the central auditory test scores improved markedly bilaterally under the condition of reinforcement as compared with the condition of no reinforcement. We hypothesize that the improvement was related to increased motivation associated with the reinforcement and that these children represented false-positive results on the central auditory test battery. Large-sample studies are needed to investigate the effect of reinforcement on test performance in children with reduced central auditory test scores.

Abbreviations: BFT = Binaural Fusion Test, CAPD = central auditory processing disorder, CST = Competing Sentences Test, FST = Filtered Speech Test
Self-Perceived Balance Disability/Handicap in the Presence of Bilateral Peripheral Vestibular System Impairment
Authors: Jacobson Gary P. , Calder Jaynee H.
Published: April 2022

The purpose of this report was to characterize the self-perceived balance disability/handicap of patients with bilateral reductions and bilateral complete losses of peripheral vestibular system function. Data from 72 patients whose electronystagmography and rotational examinations suggested normal, unilateral, or bilateral reductions in peripheral vestibular system function were used in the first investigation. Patients also completed a Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI). Results demonstrated significant group differences for DHI total and physical subscale scores. There were significant differences between normal and bilateral weakness groups for the total DHI score and between normal and unilateral and normal and bilateral weakness groups for the physical subscale score. In a second investigation, an item analysis of the DHI is presented for five patients with bilateral complete losses of peripheral vestibular system function. Results show that, predictably, these patients have difficulty engaging in activities requiring an intact vestibulocular reflex (e.g., physical activities such as sports, household chores).

Abbreviations: BFT = Balance Function Test, DHI = Dizziness Handicap Inventory, maximum SPV = maximum slow-phase eye velocity, VOR = vestibulocular reflex
Acquiring Counseling Skills in Mid-Career: Outcomes of a Distance Education Course for Practicing Audiologists
Authors: English Kris , Rojeski Tom , Branham Kerri
Published: April 2022

Although considered an essential component of audiology service delivery, counseling skills often are not adequately addressed in graduate training programs. One of the many goals of the audiology doctorate is to address this deficit by providing formal course work in counseling for both traditional graduate students and practitioners. This study describes the outcomes of a counseling class taught via distance education to mid-career audiologists, who initially were found to provide informational or technical responses to affective patient comments (a so-called "communication mismatch"). In spite of inherent limitations in electronic instruction, students demonstrated learning outcomes comparable to those obtained from conventional classroom instruction, including an improvement in their ability to respond to the affective nature of patient comments.
Interlist Equivalency of the Northwestern University Auditory Test No. 6 in Quiet and Noise with Adult Hearing-Impaired Individuals
Authors: Stockley K. Blair , Green Walter B.
Published: April 2022

The purpose of the study was to determine the influence of sensorineural hearing loss and broadband noise on the interlist equivalency of the Northwestern University Auditory Test No. 6 (NU-6). There were two groups of participants: the first group consisted of 14 adults with mild-to-moderate hearing loss (mean age = 56 years; SD = 4.83); the second group consisted of 11 age-matched, normal-hearing individuals (mean age = 55 years; SD = 4.69). Each group heard the four lists of the NU-6 in quiet and in broadband noise at four signal-to-noise ratios (–10 dB, –5 dB, 0 dB, and +5 dB). The NU-6 stimuli were presented at 35-dB sensation level relative to each listener's speech reception threshold. Results indicated that, for both groups, there was a significant main effect for NU-6 list. Post hoc single degree of freedom contrasts revealed that this main effect was due to significant differences between some of the lists when presented in background noise. There were no differences between the lists in quiet. Because of the findings of differences between some of the lists in noise, the authors suggested that clinicians or researchers use caution when comparing scores obtained from two different NU-6 lists over time. That is, if scores from two lists are different, it is important for the clinician to determine whether this disparity is due to a change in word recognition ability or simply due to a difference between the lists.

Abbreviations: NU-6 = Northwestern University Auditory Test No. 6, SNR = signal-to-noise ratio, SRT = speech reception threshold
AI predicts water droplet spreading dynamics and icing patterns on cold surfaces
Authors: Ikenson Ben
Published: April 2022

The techniques could lead to improvements in aircraft anti-icing, spray-freeze drying, and influenza vaccine storage.
Physical properties of the new intermetallic compound Pr2AgSi3
Authors: Fobasso R. Djoumessi , Sahu B. , Strydom A. M.
Published: April 2022

We present the magnetic and physical properties of the new Pr2AgSi3 polycrystalline compound. The sample was synthesized by arc-melting method and crystallizes in the tetragonal α-ThSi2 structure with centrosymmetric space group I41/amd. The magnetic susceptibility, specific heat and electrical resistivity measurements indicate a bulk ferromagnetic ordering below the transition temperature Tc ≈ 13 K. An irreversibility behavior is observed in the temperature dependence of the dc-magnetization with the zero-field-cooled curve.
Residual forest structure influences behaviour of Pacific marten (
Authors: Volkmann Logan A. , Hodges Karen E.
Published: April 2022

Wildfires are broad-scale disturbances in North American forests, with impacts that persist for many decades. Further disturbance from post-fire salvage logging is extensively modifying burned landscapes. The removal of habitat structure by fire and salvage logging may affect the persistence of forest-specialist wildlife such as Pacific marten (Martes caurina). However, it is unclear which resources are important to marten on burned landscapes. We used snow tracking and habitat surveys to examine marten habitat selection after three large fires in north-central Washington, USA (10–13 years post-fire), and central British Columbia, Canada (1–2 and 6–9 years post-fire). We developed site-scale habitat models to explain marten foraging and scent-marking post-fire, and assessed further structural changes from salvage logging. Foraging marten chose sites with lower burn severity, greater canopy closure, more vertical structures (trees, snags, saplings, and shrubs), and greater moss/lichen cover than what was generally available. When scent-marking, marten selected structurally-complex sites with abundant deadfall or saplings. Marten moved more quickly when canopy cover was sparse, and rarely used salvage-logged areas. Our results suggest that marten rely on residual habitat structure within large burns, and that secondary disturbance from salvage logging is substantially more harmful to marten than the original fire.
Simulation-based high-resolution fire danger mapping using deep learning
Authors: Allaire Frédéric , Filippi Jean-Baptiste , Mallet Vivien , Vaysse Florence
Published: April 2022

Wildfire occurrence and behaviour are difficult to predict locally for the next day. In the present work, we propose relying on fire spread simulations to provide a fire danger index representative of the potential for fire spread that includes not only weather but also surrounding vegetation and orography. This is achieved using an artificial neural network emulator called DeepFire, trained based on simulated fire sizes. To determine how relevant this index can be in the assessment of next-day fire danger, the application of DeepFire to fire danger mapping using actual weather forecasts is studied. DeepFire forecasts for 13 fairly large fires that occurred in Corsica are analysed and compared with corresponding forecasts using another fire danger index used in operational conditions, highlighting the differences in terms of precision and the expected results of such predictions. The weather forecasts from which the weather inputs of DeepFire are determined have high spatial resolution and high frequency, which also applies to the fire danger predictions. Additionally, input uncertainty is propagated through DeepFire, resulting in ensembles of emulated fire size. Several approaches are proposed to analyse the results and provide fire danger maps and ratings using this new simulation-based prediction system.
Systemic functional linguistics as a resource for teacher education and writing development
Authors: Matthiessen Christian M. I. M. , Yousefi Moslem
Published: April 2022

This article provides an illustrative and necessarily selective review of scholarship in systemic functional linguistics (SFL) since the 1960s, examining two major strands of application within the institution of education: teacher education and writing development. We explore properties of SFL that have been significant in this institutional setting, asking: “What are the properties of SFL being applied in research in teacher education and writing development?” Five foundational properties emerged from the review (i.e. language as meaning-making resource, the cline of instantiation, ontogenesis or the process of learning how to mean, the hierarchy of stratification and the spectrum of different metafunctional modes of meaning). From this basis, we explicate how SFL-based pedagogies promote language learning and literacy practices in these educational domains. The article ends by suggesting how further explorations can be undertaken to enhance understanding of the potential of this social semiotic approach and its applied contributions to solving real-world problems.