bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Most Important Election of Our Lifetime: Focalism and Political Participation
Authors: Bram Curtis
Published: December 2022

This article argues that a psychological bias called “focalism” contributes to an overestimation of the differences between political candidates, which in turn increases participation and polarization. Focalism causes people to confuse the allocation of attention to things with the importance of those things. Because attention to politics typically centers on conflict, the result is an exaggeration of differences across the partisan divide. I test this intuition using an experimental design that provides all respondents with all the information they need to estimate how much Joe Biden and Donald Trump objectively disagreed on policy positions just before the 2020 election. I find that shifting attention—toward either those positions the candidates agreed or disagreed with each other on—influences beliefs about the differences between candidates. The effect exceeds that of identifying as a Democrat or as a Republican. Beyond those perceptions, focalism increases turnout intentions, perceptions of election importance, negative feelings towards the out‐candidate, and affective polarization.
Mind the gap: Strategies from California on navigating access to public hearings
Authors: Bukalova Dominika , Maland Elizabeth
Published: December 2022

Public hearings play a critical role in U.S. local government. The evolution of public access to local government hearings and its related challenges have not been documented in a systematic way to encourage research and collaborative scholarship between practitioners and scholars. This article seeks to begin the dialogue by offering seven strategies for navigating access to public hearings in local government. In recent years, local governments have faced increasing pressure to keep pace with evolving technologies while balancing competing budget priorities and assuming a growing role in addressing policy issues that were previously the focus of state and national governments. The COVID‐19 pandemic context has presented further complexity. Left unaddressed, these challenges contribute to a widening gap between what is administratively sustainable versus politically acceptable. The strategies suggested address current challenges, attempt to bridge the gap between what is administratively sustainable and politically acceptable, and propose avenues for further study.
Automated adjustment of dialysate sodium by the hemodialysis monitor: Rationale, implementation, and clinical benefits
Authors: Petitclerc Thierry , Mercadal Lucile
Published: December 2022

Prescribing dialysate sodium is the responsibility of the physician, but there are currently no clear guidelines for this prescription. Furthermore, there is quite frequently a significant difference between prescribed and measured dialysate sodium. Several arguments, both theoretical and experimental, suggest that dialysate sodium should be adjusted individually in such a way as to result in a decreasing sodium profile that takes into account the patient's predialytic natremia. The generalization in clinical routine of this strategy requires the integration into the hemodialysis monitor of software making the machine capable to automatically adjust the dialysate sodium at each session. The only three such softwares that have been integrated into hemodialysis machines for routine clinical use are discussed. All three work with conductivity measurements as a surrogate for sodium concentrations. Although there are only a few publications on the use of these softwares in clinical practice, they appear to result in improved intradialytic tolerance to the dialysis treatment, better control of hypertension, and reduced thirst, leading to decreased interdialytic weight gain.
Does accuracy matter? A review of the consequences of accurate personality impressions as a function of context and content
Authors: Kerr Lauren Gazzard , Human Lauren J.
Published: December 2022

What are the implications of seeing others as they see themselves? That is, does viewing others accurately have consequences, positive or negative, to relationship evaluations (e.g., liking)? To address this, the current article provides a comprehensive review of the personality accuracy literature and discusses related work from the self‐verification and empathic accuracy domains. We specifically explore whether the consequences of accurate perceptions could be influenced by two key categories of moderators: the context of the impression (e.g., high vs. low stakes) and content of the impression (e.g., desirability of traits). Lastly, we discuss future directions to aid our understanding of this question.
HLA‐DPB1 molecular mismatches are risk factors for acute rejection and low 5‐year graft function in first kidney transplants
Authors: de Marco Renato , Requião‐Moura Lúcio R. , Raimundo Tamiris R. F. , Mourão Tuíla B. , Rampim Gisele F. , Medina‐Pestana José O. , Tedesco‐Silva Hélio , Gerbase‐DeLima Maria
Published: December 2022

The study aimed to investigate the impact of HLA‐DPB1 allelic and molecular mismatches on the occurrence of acute rejection (AR) and low 5‐year graft function (5Y‐GF) in first kidney transplant (KT) recipients. This is a single center retrospective study of 130 deceased donor KT recipients transplanted between 2014 and 2016. HLA‐DPB1 allelic MM and the following molecular MM (mMM) were analyzed: expression MM with the high expression G allele in the donor; T cell epitope MM (TCE MM); epitope MM (EMM), considering all six hypervariable regions (EMM‐ABCDEF HVR), or only ABEF regions (EMM‐ABEF HVR); eplet MM (EpMM); antibody‐verified eplet MM (AbVer EpMM); and solvent accessible amino acid MM (SAMM). There was no association of allelic MM with AR or 5Y‐GF. The variables independently associated (Cox regression analyses) with AR were high donor final creatinine, nonpermissive TCE MM, ABCDEF EMM load ≥6, EpMM load ≥6; SAMM load ≥5, and AbVer EpMM load ≥3. No association between any HLA‐DPB1 mMM and 5Y‐GF was observed when all 130 transplant recipients were considered. However, when transplants from expanded criteria donors were excluded, independent associations were detected (logistic regression analyses) with AbVerEpMM load ≥2, SAMM load ≥7, cerebro‐vascular death, donor age, and AR. To our knowledge, this is the first study that shows that some HLA‐DPB1 mMM are associated with AR and low 5Y‐GF in a population of exclusively first kidney transplant recipients.
The novel HLA‐C*07:1029 allele, identified by Sanger dideoxy nucleotide sequencing in a Chinese individual
Authors: Wen Shu‐peng , Zheng Zhong‐zheng , Du Ke‐ming , An Lin , Zhang Xue‐jun
Published: December 2022

HLA‐C*07:1029 differs from HLA‐C*07:02:01:01 by one nucleotide in exon 5.
Identification and characterization of the novel HLA‐A*23:122 allele by next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Ananeva Anastasiia , Gulnaz Akhmetshina , Ryzhkova Tatiana , Gaifullina Raushania , Shagimardanova Elena
Published: December 2022

The novel HLA‐A*23:122 allele was characterized using next generation sequencing technology.
Gamified innovation to teach patient disadvantage
Authors: Micheal Sowbhagya , Kellett Andrew , Lessey Nkosi , Marjadi Brahmaputra
Published: December 2022

Background

Disadvantages such as social distress, safety, economic status and educational levels can significantly impact health risk factors, health care access and health outcomes. Teaching of disadvantage is critical for medical students to understand impact of disadvantages on patient health and facilitate patient‐centred care. Disadvantage was initially taught through one tutorial to third year medical students. Students often narrowly focused on financial disadvantage and failed to consider other disadvantages. In 2019, an innovation to teach disadvantage to first year students was developed and evaluated.

Approach

A ‘trio of learning activities’ was designed that combined gamification and experiential learning. The first activity was the gamified Treasure Hunt where students overcame multiple disadvantages to collect ‘treasure’. The workshop introduced the topic and potential impacts of disadvantages on health. The second activity included placements at general practices where students observed patient disadvantages. The third activity was the end‐of‐semester tutorial during which students debriefed their learning on disadvantage throughout the semester.

Evaluation

Students completed the sentence ‘Disadvantage is …’ after the Treasure Hunt workshop and after the tutorial. Seventy‐six percent of the 146 students participated in the evaluation. Responses were thematically analysed. Post‐workshop data indicated improvement in students' understanding of disadvantage including its different types, invisible nature of some disadvantages and people's lack of control over disadvantages. Post‐tutorial data indicated additional learning about intersectionality, clinical impacts and doctors' ability to address patient disadvantage.

Implications

Combining gamification and experiential learning provided an effective and engaging way to teach about disadvantage in a limited time. Positive evaluation of the innovation indicates this approach can be utilised to teach social determinants of health.
Merely verbal disputes and common ground
Authors: Miller J. T. M.
Published: December 2022

In this paper I offer a new characterisation of what makes a dispute merely verbal. This new characterisation builds on the framework initially outlined by Jenkins and additionally makes use of Stalnaker's notion of ‘common ground’. I argue that this ‘common ground account’ can better classify disputes as merely verbal, and can better explain cases of playing devil's advocate.
The trigonal construction in the ramified case
Authors: Lange Herbert , Ortega Angela
Published: December 2022

To every double cover ramified in two points of a general trigonal curve of genus , one can associate an étale double cover of a tetragonal curve of genus . We show that the corresponding Prym varieties are canonically isomorphic as principally polarized abelian varieties. This extends Recillas' trigonal construction to covers ramified in two points.
Comorbidity and functional outcomes after hip fracture: an umbrella review protocol
Authors: Nguyen David , Lightfoot David , Journeay W. Shane
Published: December 2022

Objective:

The objective of the review is to examine the association between comorbidity and functional outcomes after hip fracture.

Introduction:

Patients who have suffered a hip fracture are at risk of poor functional recovery, which may be influenced by factors such as age, functional status at baseline, and comorbid conditions. Patients recovering from a hip fracture seldom present without other comorbid conditions. This proposed review will lead to a better understanding of the association between comorbidity and functional recovery after hip fracture and will assist in the medical support of patients recovering from these injuries.

Inclusion criteria:

Systematic reviews that include cohort studies reporting on comorbidity and functional outcomes after hip fracture in adults (≥ 18 years old) published at any time will be included. Study protocols, papers that are not systematic reviews, papers not reporting on comorbidities or functional outcomes, and papers published in languages other than English will be excluded from the review.

Methods:

The JBI methodology for umbrella reviews will be followed. MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews will be searched. Two reviewers will screen the titles and abstracts against the eligibility criteria. Data extraction will be performed by 2 independent reviewers on the reviews selected for inclusion. Extracted study characteristics will include the author, year published, databases searched, number of studies/patients included, comorbidity measures, functional outcomes, presence of meta-analysis, and bias appraisal results. The quality of included studies will be reported using the JBI critical appraisal checklist for systematic reviews and research syntheses. A summary of the extracted data will be presented in tabular format and a narrative synthesis will be performed on the collected systematic reviews that meet the inclusion criteria.

Systematic review registration number:

PROSPERO CRD42021272502
Inverse Methods in Thermal Radiation Analysis and Experiment
Authors: Ertürk Hakan , Daun Kyle , França Francis H. R. , Hajimirza Shima , Howell John R.
Published: December 2022

Most thermal radiation problems are analyzed in a “forward” manner, in which the aim is to predict the response of a system based on well-defined boundary conditions. In practice, however, many thermal radiation problems are inverse problems. For example, the goal of many furnace design problems is to find a configuration that realizes a particular irradiation profile on a target, while in measurement problems, transmitted or reflected radiation measured with sensors at a boundary may be used to infer the properties of matter within the boundary. Such inverse problems are often mathematically ill-posed because they may have multiple solutions or no solution at all. Consequently, analyzing these types of problems is more complex than is required for forward problems. In this review, we examine the various types and characteristics of inverse problems, outline standard inverse solution methods for them, and review the historical and contemporary literature.
Mixed Convection Heat Transfer From Swirling Open Spherical Cavity
Authors: Rana Basanta Kumar
Published: December 2022

This work reports a numerical study on mixed convection flows around a swirling spherical shaped open vessel in air within the laminar regime. This investigation is quite important and relevant in various industrial operations like centrifugal casting, formation of shield surfaces, thermal processing of different food stuffs, etc. This study aims to characterize the fluid flow and heat transfer behavior from both inner and outer surfaces of the open cavity. Governing differential equations, such as continuity, momentum, and energy are solved by using finite volume technique to describe the effect of relevant pertinent parameters over wide range: Rayleigh number (103≤Ra≤107), height to diameter ratio (0.15≤h/D≤0.95), and Reynolds number (0≤ReD≤300). It is observed that the plume is deformed greatly by swirling effect at higher ReD and lower Ra for a fixed h/D. The percentage of increase of heat transfer rate from ReD=0 to ReD≠ 0 is significantly higher at lower Ra for all cases of h/D. Lastly, a suitable correlation for average Nusselt number is proposed as a function of Ra, h/D, and ReD, which shows a satisfactory agreement with numerical data. This correlation is expected to be helpful for academic and industrial purposes.
Design and Analysis of a New Pressure Relief Valve for Oil-Immersed Electrical Equipment
Authors: Luo Liang , Li Jinzhong , Zhang Nong , Wang Ke , Zhang Shuqi , Liang Ningchuan
Published: December 2022

Internal arcing in oil-immersed electrical equipment is inevitable and of great danger. Transient overpressure should be released by protectors quickly and controllably. Currently available pressure relief valves cannot fully protect the electrical equipment due to mismatch between insufficient relief capacity with correspondingly weak valve structure and increasing arcing energy in upgrading electrical systems. Additionally, flaming possibility of ejected high-temperature oil–gas mixture is distinct, and retained oil in an oil tank without any isolation may be ignited by the flame. Unfortunately, resealing of some existing single-outlet valves is out of control due to asymmetrical hydraulic pressure distribution on the valve plate which causes unstable valve plate movement. Therefore, a new pressure relief valve characterized by symmetrical outlets and improved pressure relief capacity was developed. The novel structure and function of the new valve was first introduced, and comprehensive analysis regarding dynamic performances, strength and fluid development during the relief process were conducted. Finally, a prototype was manufactured and tested on a specific arcing test system. The developed valve can well release the overpressure generated by a 6 MJ equivalent arcing fault without any flame during the entire relief process. Furthermore, the valve structure can withstand the pressure load, and valve plate can precisely reseal the oil tank due to optimized fluid pressure distribution. This research provides an optimized pressure relief valve and a design guide for improved pressure relief valve.
Asymmetric temporal envelope sensitivity: Within- and across-ear envelope comparisons in listeners with bilateral cochlear implants
Authors: Anderson Sean R. , Kan Alan , Litovsky Ruth Y.
Published: December 2022

For listeners with bilateral cochlear implants (BiCIs), patient-specific differences in the interface between cochlear implant (CI) electrodes and the auditory nerve can lead to degraded temporal envelope information, compromising the ability to distinguish between targets of interest and background noise. It is unclear how comparisons of degraded temporal envelope information across spectral channels (i.e., electrodes) affect the ability to detect differences in the temporal envelope, specifically amplitude modulation (AM) rate. In this study, two pulse trains were presented simultaneously via pairs of electrodes in different places of stimulation, within and/or across ears, with identical or differing AM rates. Results from 11 adults with BiCIs indicated that sensitivity to differences in AM rate was greatest when stimuli were paired between different places of stimulation in the same ear. Sensitivity from pairs of electrodes was predicted by the poorer electrode in the pair or the difference in fidelity between both electrodes in the pair. These findings suggest that electrodes yielding poorer temporal fidelity act as a bottleneck to comparisons of temporal information across frequency and ears, limiting access to the cues used to segregate sounds, which has important implications for device programming and optimizing patient outcomes with CIs.
Integrated Electric Spark Testing of Continuity and Unacceptable Thinning of Dielectric Coatings
Authors: Syas’ko V. A. , Litvinov B. Ya. , Musikhin A. S.
Published: December 2022

At present, the main method for detecting continuity defects in dielectric coatings is the electrospark method of nondestructive testing (NDT). However, minimum coating thickness requirements are applied to most modern coatings. It seems promising to carry out tolerance control of the testing of dielectric coatings in one technological process with control of their continuity due to changes in the existing testing methods and the method of forming the test voltage. Theoretical and experimental analysis of the processes of sparking occurring upon detection of through and nonthrough defects in dielectric coatings on electrically conductive substrates has been carried out. The minimum control voltages have been measured and calculated for the studied dielectric coatings, taking into account the detection of both through defects and unacceptable thinning. The application of a probabilistic approach to the detection of the above defects is proposed. It is shown that with a known value of the electrical strength of the coating, it is possible to detect both through and nonthrough defects with a calculated probability in coatings with a given test voltage.
Risk of total hip arthroplasty after elite sport: linking 3304 former world-class athletes with the Norwegian Arthroplasty Register
Authors: Nilsen Daniel Hoseth , Furnes Ove , Kroken Gard , Robsahm Trude Eid , Johnsen Marianne Bakke , Engebretsen Lars , Nordsletten Lars , Bahr Roald , Lie Stein Atle
Published: December 2022

Objectives

At present, there is no cure for osteoarthritis (OA), but severe hip joint degeneration can require total hip arthroplasty (THA). The literature on OA after elite sport is limited. We hypothesise that elite athletic activity increases the risk of receiving a THA later in life.

Methods

We linked a cohort of former Norwegian world-class athletes (1402 females and 1902 males, active 1936–2006) to the Norwegian Arthroplasty Register (THA performed 1987–2020). We used standardised incidence ratio (SIR), one-minus Kaplan-Meier and relative Cox regression (relative HR, RHR), with 95% CIs, and funnel plots at age 75, to assess THA risk for different sport disciplines, joint impact categories of sport disciplines and sex. The risk of THA for the corresponding general Norwegian population was used as reference.

Results

We found an overall increased risk for THA for the former elite athletes (SIR 2.11, 95% CI 1.82 to 2.40) at age 75 years, compared with the general population. THA risk at age 75 years was 11.6% for female athletes and 8.3% for male athletes. SIR was 1.90 (95% CI 1.49 to 2.31) for female and 2.28 (95% CI 1.87 to 2.70) for male athletes. Among males, high joint impact sport disciplines were associated with increased risk compared with low-impact sport disciplines (RHR 1.81, 95% CI 1.06 to 3.08, p=0.029).

Conclusion

Having been an elite athlete was associated with a doubling of THA risk compared with the general population for both sexes. High joint impact sport disciplines were associated with subsequent THA for male athletes.
Healthspan and chronic disease burden among young adult and middle-aged male former American-style professional football players
Authors: Grashow Rachel , Shaffer-Pancyzk Taylor Valencia , Dairi Inana , Lee Hang , Marengi Dean , Baker Jillian , Weisskopf Marc G , Speizer Frank E , Whittington Alicia J , Taylor Herman A , Keating Dylan , Tenforde Adam , Guseh James Sawalla , Wasfy Meagan M , Zafonte Ross , Baggish Aaron
Published: December 2022

Objective

To examine the relationships between age, healthspan and chronic illness among former professional American-style football (ASF) players.

Methods

We compared age-specific race-standardised and body mass index-standardised prevalence ratios of arthritis, dementia/Alzheimer’s disease, hypertension and diabetes among early adult and middle-aged (range 25–59 years) male former professional ASF players (n=2864) with a comparator cohort from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and National Health Interview Survey, two representative samples of the US general population. Age was stratified into 25–29, 30–39, 40–49 and 50–59 years.

Results

Arthritis and dementia/Alzheimer’s disease were more prevalent among ASF players across all study age ranges (all p<0.001). In contrast, hypertension and diabetes were more prevalent among ASF players in the youngest age stratum only (p<0.001 and p<0.01, respectively). ASF players were less likely to demonstrate intact healthspan (ie, absence of chronic disease) than the general population across all age ranges.

Conclusion

These data suggest the emergence of a maladaptive early ageing phenotype among former professional ASF players characterised by premature burden of chronic disease and reduced healthspan. Additional study is needed to investigate these findings and their impact on morbidity and mortality in former ASF players and other athlete groups.
Inverse association between blood pressure and pulse oximetry accuracy: an observational study in patients with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 infection
Authors: Crooks Colin J , West Joe , Morling Jo , Simmonds Mark , Juurlink Irene , Briggs Steve , Cruickshank Simon , Hammond-Pears Susan , Shaw Dominick , Card Tim , Fogarty Andrew W
Published: December 2022

Background

Pulse oximeters are a standard non-invasive tool to measure blood oxygen levels, and are used in multiple healthcare settings. It is important to understand the factors affecting their accuracy to be able to use them optimally and safely. This analysis aimed to explore the association of the measurement error of pulse oximeters with systolic BP, diastolic BP and heart rate (HR) within ranges of values commonly observed in clinical practice.

Methods

The study design was a retrospective observational study of all patients admitted to a large teaching hospital with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 infection from February 2020 to December 2021. Data on systolic and diastolic BPs and HR levels were available from the same time period as the pulse oximetry measurements.

Results

Data were available for 3420 patients with 5927 observations of blood oxygen saturations as measured by pulse oximetry and ABG sampling within 30 min. The difference in oxygen saturation using the paired pulse oximetry and arterial oxygen saturation difference measurements was inversely associated with systolic BP, increasing by 0.02% with each mm Hg decrease in systolic BP (95% CI 0.00% to 0.03%) over a range of 80–180 mm Hg. Inverse associations were also observed between the error for oxygen saturation as measured by pulse oximetry and with both diastolic BP (+0.03%; 95% CI 0.00% to 0.05%) and HR (+0.04%; 95% CI 0.02% to 0.06% for each unit decrease in the HR).

Conclusions

Care needs to be taken in interpreting pulse oximetry measurements in patients with lower systolic and diastolic BPs, and HRs, as oxygen saturation is overestimated as BP and HR decrease. Confirmation of the oxygen saturation with an ABG may be appropriate in some clinical scenarios.
Discrimination, identity connectedness and tobacco use in a sample of sexual and gender minority young adults
Authors: Budenz Alex , Gaber Jennifer , Crankshaw Erik , Malterud Andie , Peterson Emily B , Wagner Dana E , Sanders Emily C
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Studies show that tobacco use among sexual and gender minority (SGM) populations is disproportionately higher than heterosexual or cisgender populations. However, few studies have examined tobacco use among SGM subgroups by race/ethnicity or associations between SGM-specific discrimination and connection to SGM identity and tobacco use.

Methods

This study analysed survey data from 11 313 SGM (gay, lesbian, bisexual, other sexual minority or gender minority) young adults in the USA and reported current cigarette, e-cigarette, other tobacco (cigar, smokeless tobacco, hookah) and polytobacco use. We used multinomial logistic regression to estimate associations between (a) SGM subgroup, race/ethnicity, SGM-specific discrimination and SGM identity connection and (b) each tobacco use outcome (vs never use of tobacco). We conducted postestimation testing to assess predicted probabilities of tobacco use against the sample average.

Results

Lesbian females (particularly black lesbian females) had higher-than-average probability of polytobacco use. White bisexual and lesbian participants had higher-than-average probability of cigarette and e-cigarette use, respectively. Higher levels of discrimination were associated with polytobacco use. Higher levels of identity connectedness were protective against certain tobacco use behaviours among gender minority participants and participants with high levels of discrimination experience.

Conclusions

We found variations in tobacco use by SGM subgroups overall and by race/ethnicity. Discrimination may be a risk factor for certain tobacco use behaviours. However, SGM identity connectedness may be protective against tobacco use among gender minority individuals and individuals experiencing SGM-specific discrimination. These findings can inform targeted approaches to reach SGM subgroups at greater risk of tobacco use.
Post-exercise endothelial function is not associated with extracellular vesicle release in healthy young males
Authors: Tryfonos Andrea , Cocks Matthew , Browning Nicola , Dawson Ellen A.
Published: December 2022

Acute exercise can result in temporary decrease in endothelial functions, which may represent a transient period of risk. Numerous mechanisms underpinning these responses included release of extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from apoptotic or activated endothelial cells and platelets. This study aims to compare the time course of endothelial responses to moderate-intensity continuous exercise (MICE) and high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) and the associations with EV release. Eighteen young healthy males (age: 22.6 ± 3.7 years, BMI: 25.6 ± 2.5 m2/kg, and VO2peak: 38.6 ± 6.5 mL/kg/min) completed two randomly assigned exercises: HIIE (10 × 1 min-@-90% heart rate reserve (HRR) and 1 min passive recovery) and MICE (30 min-@-70% HRR) on a cycle ergometer. Flow-mediated dilation (FMD) was used to assess endothelial function and blood samples were collected to evaluate endothelial cell-derived EV (CD62E+) and platelet-derived EV (CD41a+), 10, 60, and 120 min before and after exercise. There were similar increases but different time courses ( P = 0.017) in FMD (increased 10 min post-HIIE, P < 0.0001 and 60 min post-MICE, P = 0.038). CD62E+ remained unchanged ( P = 0.530), whereas overall CD41a+ release was reduced 60 min post-exercise ( P = 0.040). FMD was not associated with EV absolute release or change ( P > 0.05). Acute exercise resulted in similar improvements, but different time course in FMD following either exercise. Whilst EVs were not associated with FMD, the reduction in platelet-derived EVs may represent a protective mechanism following acute exercise.
Smartwatch-based bioimpedance analysis for body composition estimation: precision and agreement with a 4-compartment model
Authors: Brandner Caleb F. , Tinsley Grant M. , Graybeal Austin J.
Published: December 2022

Given that the prevalence of smartwatches has allowed them to become a hallmark in health monitoring, they are primed to provide accessible body composition estimations. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the precision and agreement of smartwatch-based bioimpedance analysis (SW-BIA) and multifrequency bioimpedance analysis (MFBIA) against a 4-compartment (4C) model criterion. A total of 186 participants (114 females) underwent body composition assessments necessary for a 4C model and SW-BIA and MFBIA. Values of total body water (TBW) from each device were compared with those obtained from bioimpedance spectroscopy. Precision was adequate though slightly lower for the smartwatch compared with other methods. No device demonstrated equivalence with the 4C model. Specifically, the SW-BIA overestimated and MFBIA underestimated body fat. MFBIA, but not SW-BIA, demonstrated equivalence for TBW. Overall error was higher for males using the smartwatch compared with females. While these findings do not invalidate the use of smartwatch-based estimates, clinicians should consider that there may be large errors relative to clinical measures. If this wearable device is intended to be used to monitor body composition change over time, these findings demonstrate the need for future research to evaluate its accuracy during follow-up testing.
The regulation of m6A-related proteins during whole-body freezing of the freeze-tolerant wood frog
Authors: Rehman Saif , Varma Anchal , Gupta Aakriti , Storey Kenneth B.
Published: December 2022

Rana sylvatica (also known as Boreorana sylvatica) is one of the few vertebrates that spend extreme winters showing no physiological signs of life. Up to 70% of the total body water of the wood frog freezes as extracellular ice. Survival in extreme conditions requires regulation at transcriptional and translational levels to activate prosurvival pathways. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation is one of the most common RNA modifications, regulating transcript processing and translation by executing important functions that affect regulatory pathways in stress conditions. In the study, regulation of m6A-related proteins in the liver of R. sylvatica was analyzed during 24 h frozen and 8 h thaw conditions. Decreases in the activity of demethylases of 28.44 ± 0.4% and 24.1 ± 0.9% of control values in frozen and thaw tissues, respectively, were observed. Total protein levels of m6A methyltransferase complex components methyltransferase-like 14 and Wilm's tumor associated protein were increased by 1.28-fold and 1.42-fold, respectively, during freezing. Demethylase fat mass and obesity, however, showed a decreasing trend, with a significant decrease in abundance during recovery from frozen conditions. Levels of mRNA degraders YTHDF2 and YTHDC2 also decreased under stress. Overall, increased levels of m6A methylation complex components, and suppressed levels of readers/erasers, provide evidence for the potential role of RNA methylation in freezing survival and its regulation in a hypometabolic state.
Interpretation and application of bat diversity and phylogeny
Authors: Clare Elizabeth L. , Lim Burton K.
Published: December 2022

Brock Fenton has devoted his career to the study of the ecological adaptations of bats and their diversity. In this paper, we describe his interest and research on the subject of bat evolution and how he has used phylogenetic hypotheses to revise our understanding of divergences and convergences of specific traits within this mammalian order. While he has always been fascinated by the evolution of echolocation, he has also written about the evolution of reproductive, morphological, and behavioural traits and his recent methods of documenting diversity incorporates his lifelong love of photography. We describe these and taxonomic attempts to honour his contributions to the study of bat species diversity. Brock has supported hundreds of students and colleagues with his endless enthusiasm and generosity and inspired them with his ongoing research on bats.
Determination of $$\alpha _s(m_Z)$$ by the non-perturbative decoupling method
Authors: Dalla Brida Mattia , Höllwieser Roman , Knechtli Francesco , Korzec Tomasz , Nada Alessandro , Ramos Alberto , Sint Stefan , Sommer Rainer ,   ALPHA Collaboration
Published: December 2022

We present the details and first results of a new strategy for the determination of $$\alpha _s(m_Z)$$

α
s

(

m
Z

)

(ALPHA Collaboration et al. in Phys. Lett. B 807:135571, 2020). By simultaneously decoupling 3 fictitious heavy quarks we establish a relation between the $$\Lambda $$
Λ
-parameters of three-flavor QCD and pure gauge theory. Very precise recent results in the pure gauge theory (Dalla Brida and Ramos in Eur. Phys. J. C 79(8):720, 2019; Nada and Ramos in Eur Phys J C 81(1):1, 2021) can thus be leveraged to obtain the three-flavour $$\Lambda $$
Λ
-parameter in units of a common decoupling scale. Connecting this scale to hadronic physics in 3-flavour QCD leads to our result in physical units, $$\Lambda ^{(3)}_{\overline{\textrm{MS}}} = 336(12)\, {\textrm{MeV}}$$

Λ

MS
¯

(
3
)

=
336

(
12
)

MeV

, which translates to $$\alpha _s(m_Z) = 0.11823(84)$$

α
s

(

m
Z

)

=
0.11823

(
84
)

. This is compatible with both the FLAG average (Aoki et al. in FLAG review 2021. arXiv:2111.09849 [hep-lat]) and the previous ALPHA result (ALPHA Collaboration et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 119(10):102001, 2017), with a comparable, yet still statistics dominated, error. This constitutes a highly non-trivial check, as the decoupling strategy is conceptually very different from the 3-flavour QCD step-scaling method, and so are their systematic errors. These include the uncertainties of the combined decoupling and continuum limits, which we discuss in some detail. We also quantify the correlation between both results, due to some common elements, such as the scale determination in physical units and the definition of the energy scale where we apply decoupling.
Higgs-boson masses and mixings in the MSSM with CP violation and heavy SUSY particles
Authors: Murphy Nick , Rzehak Heidi
Published: December 2022

We calculate the Higgs-boson mass spectrum and the corresponding mixing of the Higgs states in the Minimal Supersymmetric Standard Model (MSSM). We assume a mass-hierarchy with heavy SUSY particles and light Higgs bosons. To investigate this scenario, we employ an effective-field-theory approach with a low-energy Two-Higgs-Doublet Model (2HDM) where both Higgs doublets couple to right-handed up- as well as right-handed down-type fermions. We perform a one-loop matching of the MSSM to the 2HDM and evolve the parameters to the low energy scale by exploiting two-loop renormalization group equations, taking the complex parameters into account. For the calculation of the pole mass, we compare three different options: one suitable for large charged Higgs mass, one for low charged Higgs mass, and one approximation that interpolates between these scenarios. The phase dependence of the mass of the lightest neutral Higgs boson can be sizeable, i.e. of the order of a couple of GeV depending on the scenario. In addition, we discuss the CP composition of the neutral Higgs bosons.
Dispersion-theoretical analysis of the electromagnetic form factors of the $$\Lambda $$ hyperon
Authors: Lin Yong-Hui , Hammer Hans-Werner , Meißner Ulf-G.
Published: December 2022

The electromagnetic form factors of the $$\Lambda $$
Λ
hyperon in the time-like region are determined precisely through a dispersion-theoretical analysis of the world data for the cross section of the annihilation process $$e^+e^-\rightarrow {\bar{\Lambda }}{\Lambda }$$

e
+

e
-

→

Λ

¯

Λ

. The spectral function is represented by a superposition of narrow and broad vector meson poles. We test different scenarios for the spectral function and obtain a good description of the world data in the time-like region. The uncertainties in the extracted form factors are estimated by means of the bootstrap sampling method. The analytical continuation of the form factors to the space-like region introduces large errors due to the lack of data. When the electric $$\Lambda $$
Λ
radius from chiral perturbation theory is taken as a constraint, the magnetic radius is predicted as $$r_M = 0.681 \pm 0.002$$

r
M

=
0.681
±
0.002

fm. We also extract various vector meson to baryon coupling constants.
All Out All the Time? Superstars and Incentives on the LPGA Tour
Authors: Leeds Michael A. , Leeds Eva Marikova
Published: December 2022

Using data from the 1995-2006 LPGA Tour, we analyse players’ response to the presence of Annika Sorenstam, a dominant champion on the LPGA Tour at the time. We find that the measures of players’ responses are highly sensitive to specification. Employing course fixed effects (FEs) greatly reduces the impact Sorenstam had on other golfers. We also find that players do not respond positively to the size of the reward to winning the tournament, which contradicts experimental studies of rank-order tournaments (ROTs). Our findings lead us to question both experimental and non-experimental studies of ROTs and of gender differences in response to them.
Electronic Spectrum and Optical Properties of Y-Shaped Kekulé-Patterned Graphene: Band Nesting Resonance as An Optical Signature
Authors: Mohammadi Yawar
Published: December 2022

Employing tight-binding model we investigate the effects of a uniform Y-shaped Kekulé lattice distortion on the electronic spectrum and optical conductivity of graphene. We derive a low-energy effective Hamiltonian which is found to be in excellent agreement with one calculated from a diagonalization of the full tight-binding Hamiltonian. Then using the low-energy Hamiltonian and Kubo formula we obtain an analytical expression for the real part of the optical conductivity used to explore the effects of chemical potential, temperature and on-site and hopping energy deviations in details. In particular we find that Y-shaped Kekué-patterned graphene at finite chemical potential displays a large optical response called band nesting resonance. This effect is shown to be robust against increasing temperature, facilitating its detection as an optical signature for the Y-shaped Kekulé distortion even at room temperature.
Comprehensive Framework of Major Power Project Management Based on System Thinking
Authors: Zhu Xue-Wen , Pei Ai-Hua , Peng Fei , Xue Nan-Nan , Zhang Wei
Published: December 2022

Major power projects are normally critical nodes of the national power producing and transmission networks. However, the management of major power projects faces a variety of difficulties such as large scale, technical complexity, high quality standard, and frequent coordination. To improve the scientificity and effectiveness of the construction management of major power projects, a comprehensive framework of major power projects is established, which can be further decomposed into 8 subsystems and 28 indicators through system thinking. Then, by combining the G1 method with the cloud model, a new way of management performance evaluation of power projects is provided. Finally, taking the Kunliulong DC demonstration project as a case, the total performance evaluation result using the cloud model is between “excellent” and “great,” and more inclined to “excellent,” the performance of Schedule Control is close to the “outstanding” level, while the performance of Project Breakdown Structure is reaching the “good” level. The result shows that the established management evaluation system of major power engineering is relatively comprehensive, which can provide a reference for the realization of multiobjective and full‐cycle overall management. Meanwhile, the exposed weak links in management, such as structural decomposition and environmental protection, should be highly valued and strictly controlled.
Modeling and Analysis of Predator-Prey Model with Fear Effect in Prey and Hunting Cooperation among Predators and Harvesting
Authors: Belew Basaznew , Melese Dawit
Published: December 2022

In this paper, we present and analyze predator-prey system where prey population is linearly harvested and affected by fear and the prey population has grown logistically in the absence of predators. The predator population follows hunting cooperation, and it predates the prey population in the Holling type II functional responses. Based on those assumptions, a two-dimensional mathematical model is derived. The positivity, boundedness, and extinction of both prey and predator populations of the solution of the system are discussed. The existence, stability (local and global), and the Hopf bifurcation analysis of the biologically feasible equilibrium points are investigated. The aim of this research is to explore the effect of fear on the prey population and hunting cooperation on the predator population, and both prey and predator populations are harvested linearly and taken as control parameters of the model. If the values of

c

1

>
1

, then both prey and predator populations are extinct and also fear parameter has a stabilizing effect on system 4. From the numerical simulation, it was found that the fear effect, hunting cooperation, prey harvesting, and predator harvesting change the dynamics of system 4.
A Case of Contralateral Pneumothorax, Pneumomediastinum, and Pneumopericardium after Dual-Chamber Pacemaker Implantation
Authors: Rehman Wajeeh ur , Muneeb Altif , Sakhawat Usama , Ganesh Pranava , Braiteh Nabil , Skovira Vince , Sajjad Waseem , Rehman Afzal ur
Published: December 2022

As permanent pacemaker implantation is increasingly becoming a common practice, it is important to understand potential complications associated with the procedure. We present a 78-year-old Caucasian female who developed contralateral pneumomediastinum, pneumothorax, and pneumopericardium after undergoing implantation of a dual-chamber pacemaker.
lncRNA NEAT1 Downregulation Ameliorates the Myocardial Infarction of Mice by Regulating the miR-582-5p/F2RL2 Axis
Authors: Wu Zhenhua , Bai Yunpeng , Qi Yujuan , Chang Chao , Jiao Yan , Bai Yaobang , Guo Zhigang
Published: December 2022

Background. This study is aimed at effectively investigating the role of coagulation factor II thrombin receptor like 2 (F2RL2) in myocardial infarction (MI) as well as the upstream regulatory miRNA and lncRNA. Methods. Regulatory genes of F2RL2 were analyzed using StarBase and verified by dual-luciferase reporter assay. The MI mouse model was established. The left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) and fractional shortening (FS) were examined by echocardiography. The infarct area, pathological changes, and cell apoptosis in mouse myocardial tissue were evaluated using triphenyltetrazolium chloride and Evans blue, hematoxylin-eosin, and TUNEL staining assays. Oxygen-glucose deprivation- (OGD-) induced human cardiac myocytes (HCMs) were cultured and transfected. The cell viability, proliferation, and apoptosis were determined by CCK-8, EdU staining, and flow cytometry assays. The expressions of F2RL2, miR-582-5p, and nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (NEAT1) in myocardial tissues and HCMs were quantified by qRT-PCR or Western blot. Results. NEAT1 sponged miR-582-5p which targeted F2RL2. NEAT1 and F2RL2 were highly expressed while miR-582-5p was lowly expressed in MI mice. F2RL2 downregulation prevented the reduction in EF and SF and the elevation in infarct area and cell apoptosis of MI mice. Both F2RL2 and NEAT1 downregulations reversely modulated the decreased viability and proliferation and the increased apoptosis of OGD-induced HCMs, while miR-582-5p inhibitor did oppositely. NEAT1 silencing upregulated miR-582-5p level but downregulated F2RL2 level. miR-582-5p inhibitor upregulated the F2RL2 level. The role of NEAT1 silencing in OGD-induced HCMs was reversed by miR-582-5p inhibitor whose effect was further offset by F2RL2 downregulation. Conclusion. NEAT1 downregulation ameliorates MI by regulating the miR-582-5p/F2RL2 axis, providing novel biomarkers for MI treatment.
Optimization of Drilling Parameters in Sisal-Human Hair Hybrid Composite Using Grey Relational Analysis
Authors: Raja D. Elil , Selvan S. Panneer , Prabhuraj P. , Sonar Tushar
Published: December 2022

Sisal is the most commonly used natural fiber in polymer composites due to its high strength, durability, and ability to stretch. In this present work, sisal and human hair were used as reinforcement for epoxy resin-based hybrid composites, and their effect on the mechanical properties was reported. Four composite plates with fiber volume fractions of 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40% were fabricated by the hand lay-up method. Chopped sisal fiber and human hair of 30 mm length were mixed with epoxy resin to fabricate the composites. In addition, high-speed steel (HSS) drills were used to study the influence of drilling parameters such as speed, feed, and drill point angle on the quality of the drilling. Three factors with three levels were considered for the design of the experiment. The drilling parameters were optimized using Grey Relational Analysis and the Taguchi method for the reduction of delamination. The experimental results indicate that a flexural strength of 38 MPa was achieved in a 60% epoxy, 20% sisal, and 20% human hair composite. NI vision assistant software was used to process the images taken on the drilled holes using the Matrix Vision camera. The optimization results showed that the feed rate played a pivotal role in deciding the delamination on the entry side of the hole. In contrast, the drill point angle significantly affects the delamination at the exit side of the hole. Better quality holes are achieved with a cutting speed of 2500 rpm and a feed rate of 50 m/min.