bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A parameter space approach for isogeometrical level set topology optimization
Authors: Aminzadeh Masoud , Tavakkoli Seyed Mehdi
Published: March 2022

In this article, a new isogeometrical level set topology optimization is introduced. In previous studies, the level set function is approximated by b‐splines basis functions and the control net is updated during the optimization process. Since control points are not basically on the level set surface, a discrepancy between zero level of function that represents boundaries of the structure, and zero level of its control netis appeared. In this article, the idea is solving level set equation (LSE) over the parameter space of b‐splines basis functions defined in the IGA model. Afterwards, the updated level set function is mapped into the physical space. The level set function is approximated over a grid defined in parameter space which is constantly a unit square. By doing so, control net of the IGA model and the grid for solving LSE are separated. Two well‐known radial basis functions (RBF) and reaction–diffusion (RD) based methods are employed to solve the LSE. The proposed method is applied to minimize the mean compliance when certain amount of material is used and also for weight minimization subject to local stress constraints. Several numerical examples are presented to demonstrate performance and accuracy of the proposed method.
Fusion transcripts as liquid biopsy markers in alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma and synovial sarcoma: A report of the Cooperative Weichteilsarkom Studiengruppe (CWS)
Authors: Stegmaier Sabine , Sparber‐Sauer Monika , Aakcha‐Rudel Esther , Münch Petra , Reeh Theresa , Feuchtgruber Simone , Hallmen Erika , Blattmann Claudia , Bielack Stefan , Klingebiel Thomas , Koscielniak Ewa
Published: March 2022

Background

The possible application of gene fusion transcripts as tumor‐specific noninvasive liquid biopsy biomarkers was investigated in blood plasma from patients with alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (ARMS) and synovial sarcoma (SS).

Methods

Patients entered in the CWS Soft‐Tissue Sarcoma Registry (SoTiSaR) with tumors positive for fusion genes and available blood/plasma samples were included in our analysis. Cell‐free exosomal RNA was extracted and used to detect PAX‐FOXO1 or SYT‐SSX fusion transcripts by reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT‐qPCR).

Results

The analysis included 112 ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid blood samples from 80 patients (65 with ARMS, 15 with SS; 34 with localized, 46 with metastatic disease). For patients with metastatic ARMS, 62% (n = 18) of initial liquid biopsies were positive, and 16 (89%) of them showed initial bone marrow (BM) metastases. For all patients with primary localized ARMS, liquid biopsy was negative at diagnosis. Of the 48 plasma samples collected during therapy and follow‐up, five were positive. None of the liquid biopsies from patients with SS were positive.

Conclusions

This liquid biopsy assay based on the detection of fusion transcripts in cell‐free RNA from blood exosomes is suitable for analysis of patients with ARMS. Results showed good correlation with the initial tumor status; liquid biopsy was positive in 94% of patients with metastatic ARMS and initial BM involvement, whereas biopsies from all patients with localized tumors were negative. Prospective validation and optimization of the assay, as well as its application for other markers in diagnostics and monitoring of soft‐tissue sarcoma, are ongoing.
Surgical outcomes in survivors of childhood cancer undergoing thyroidectomy: A single‐institution experience
Authors: Van Remortel B. J. , Chehab L. , Bauer A. J. , Isaza A. , Yimei Li , Baumgarten Heron D. , Franco Aime T. , Laetsch Theodore W. , Kazahaya Ken , Adzick N. Scott , Mostoufi‐Moab Sogol
Published: March 2022

Background

Childhood cancer survivors (CCS) are at increased risk for thyroid disease, and many require definitive management with thyroid surgery. Despite this, there is limited evidence on surgical outcomes among CCS. We sought to evaluate postoperative outcomes at our institution among CCS undergoing thyroid surgery compared to patients without a history of primary childhood malignancy.

Procedure

Medical records were reviewed for 638 patients treated at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Pediatric Thyroid Center between 2009 and 2020. Rates of surgical complications, including recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) paralysis and hypoparathyroidism, among CCS were compared to patients with sporadic/familial thyroid cancer, Graves’ disease, and other benign thyroid conditions. Operative time and intraoperative parathyroid hormone levels were also evaluated.

Results

There were no significant differences in long‐term surgical complication rates, such as permanent RLN paralysis and hypoparathyroidism, between CCS and patients without a history of primary childhood malignancy (all p > .05). For all surgical outcomes, there were no significant differences in complication rates when CCS were compared to those undergoing surgery for sporadic/familial thyroid cancer or Graves’ disease (all p > .05). CCS with benign final pathology had significantly higher rates of transient hypoparathyroidism compared to patients with benign thyroid conditions (p < .001).

Conclusions

Our study suggests that CCS are not at higher risk of long‐term complications from thyroid surgery when treated by high‐volume surgeons within a multidisciplinary team.
Multiple recycling of a PLA/PHB biopolymer blend for sustainable packaging applications: Rheology‐morphology, thermal, and mechanical performance analysis
Authors: Farias Naiara C. , Major Ian , Devine Declan , Brennan Fournet Margaret , Pezzoli Romina , Farshbaf Taghinezhad Soheil , Hesabi Mohammadnabi
Published: March 2022

Blends of poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) (70/30 wt%) were prepared, and the effects of multiple mechanical recycling up to 5 times on the rheology–morphology relationships, thermal, and mechanical properties were investigated. Rheological and morphological investigations indicated a degree of immiscibility of two combined polymers. Notably, recycling served to improve the interfacial interaction of the phases through limited transesterification reactions and increased homogeneous morphologies. While there was significant reduction in viscosity through multiple recycling, chain scission and degradation were not observed in Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) results. Additionally, higher crystallinity and lower Tg and cold crystallization temperatures were measured for the reprocessed samples, which are attributed to the formation of finer PHB droplets acting as nucleating agents promoting further crystallinity. In conclusion, the increased crystallinity counter influenced the measured viscosity decrease, and subsequently, multiple recycling was not observed to significantly affect the tensile properties. Furthermore, impact results are also indicative of the crucial role of crystallinity and blend morphology on maintaining the toughness of the recycled samples.
Nematicidal activity of furanoeremophilenes against Meloidogyne incognita and Nacobbus aberrans
Authors: Velasco‐Azorsa Raúl , Zeferino‐Díaz Reyna , Alvarado‐Rodríguez José G , López‐Ruiz Heraclio , Rojas‐Lima Susana , Flores‐Castro Kinardo , del Prado‐Vera Ignacio Cid , Alatorre‐Rosas Raquel , Tut‐Pech Felipe , Carrillo‐Benítez María G , Burgueño‐Tapia Eleuterio , Torres‐Valencia J Martín
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND

While searching for novel small molecules for new organic pesticide agents against plant‐parasitic nematodes, we found that the hexane extract from the roots of Senecio sinuatos and its main secondary metabolite, 3β‐angeloyloxy‐6β‐hydroxyfuranoeremophil‐1(10)‐ene (1), possess nematicidal activity against the second stage juvenile (J2) of Meloidogyne incognita and Nacobbus aberrans. Both species reduce yield of various vegetable crops. These results encouraged us to synthesize esters 3–9 formed by diol 2, obtained by alkaline hydrolysis of 1 and acetic anhydride, benzoic acid, 2‐nitrobenzoic acid, 2‐bromobenzoic acid, 4‐nitrobenzoic acid, 4‐bromobenzoic acid, and 4‐methoxybenzoic acid, respectively. The nematicidal activity of these esters was evaluated and compared with that of the free benzoic acids.

RESULTS

Natural product 1 and derivatives 2–9 were obtained and characterized by their physical and spectroscopic properties, including one‐dimensional (1D) and two‐dimensional (2D) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experiments; X‐ray diffraction analysis established their absolute configuration. The nematicidal activity of compounds 1–9 was assessed in vitro against M. incognita and N. aberrans J2 and was compared to activity shown by benzoic acid, 2‐nitrobenzoic acid, 2‐bromobenzoic acid, 4‐nitrobenzoic acid, 4‐bromobenzoic acid, and 4‐methoxybenzoic acid. The esters suppressed nematodes more than free benzoic acid. Nacobbus aberrans J2 were suppressed, with compounds 5, 6, and 8 being the most active.

CONCLUSION

Esters formed by 3β,6β‐dihydroxyfuranoeremophil‐1(10)‐ene and ortho‐ or para‐substituted benzoic acids containing electron acceptor groups had nematicidal activity against N. aberrans. These compound can potentially serve as a model for the development of new organic nematicidal agents. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Pulmonary hypertensive crisis in children with pulmonary arterial hypertension undergoing cardiac catheterization
Authors: Li Qiangqiang , Zhang Chen , Wang Rong , Keller Bradley B. , Gu Hong
Published: March 2022

Pediatric patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) are considered to be at risk for pulmonary hypertensive crisis (PHC) or even death during right heart catheterization (RHC). This retrospective study was designed to identify the risks and clinical characteristics associated with PHC in pediatric PAH patients. We included 163 consecutive procedures from 147 pediatric patients diagnosed with PAH who underwent diagnostic RHC in Beijing Anzhen Hospital between January 2007 and December 2020. The average patient age was 9.0 ± 4.7 years and 84 (51.5%) were females. Before RHC, over 20% of patients were in New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III–IV. Sedation or general intravenous anesthesia was used in 103 procedures (63.2%), with spontaneous breathing in 93.2%. PHC occurred in 19 patients (11.7%), 5 (3.1%) required cardiac compression, and 1 died (0.6%). Compared to patients without PHC, those who experienced PHC were more likely to be in NYHA class III–IV (p = 0.012) before RHC, require sedation (p = 0.011), had echocardiographic indices of higher peak tricuspid regurgitation velocity (p = 0.018), and right ventricle (RV) to left ventricle (LV) ratio (p < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression for PHC identified the need for sedation and a higher RV/LV ratio as independent predictors. In conclusion, the risk of RHC remains significant in children with PAH, particularly in those with severe RV dilation who require sedation during cardiac catheterization. Comprehensive evaluation, close monitoring, and appropriate treatment before and during the procedure are essential for reducing mortality.
The exercise in pulmonary arterial hypertension (ExPAH) study: A randomized controlled pilot of exercise training and multidisciplinary rehabilitation in pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Chia Karen S. W. , Shiner Christine T. , Brown Karen , Holloway Cameron J. , Moreyra Camila , Bart Nicole , Wong Peter K. K. , Faux Steven G. , Kotlyar Eugene
Published: March 2022

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is characterized by progressive dyspnea, fatigue, and reduced exercise capacity. Despite medical treatment, outcomes remain poor. While exercise training is well established in patients with heart failure, it is less established in patients with PH. This single‐blind, randomized controlled pilot study examined the feasibility and effect of 12‐week outpatient exercise (multidisciplinary rehabilitation or home walking program) on hemodynamics using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI) and right heart catheterization (RHC) in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a subset of PH. Sixteen participants were randomized to either multidisciplinary outpatient rehabilitation or a home walking program for 12 weeks. Primary outcome measures were changes in right ventricular ejection fraction and stroke volume index on cMRI. Secondary outcome measures included hemodynamics on RHC, quality of life (QOL), muscle strength (handgrip and vital capacity) and 6‐min walk test. This preliminary, pilot study suggests that outpatient exercise interventions may be associated with improved hemodynamic function (mean pulmonary artery wedge pressure, stroke volume, and stroke volume index), QOL (PH symptoms, depression, and anxiety), and muscular strength (vital capacity and handgrip strength) for people with PAH, but was not adequately powered to make any formal conclusions. However, our outpatient programs were feasible, safe, and acceptable to participants. Future studies are required to further explore the potential hemodynamic benefits of exercise in PAH.
Quality of laparoscopic camera navigation in robot‐assisted versus conventional laparoscopic surgery for rectal cancer: An analysis of surgical videos through a video processing computer software
Authors: Kim Ji Seon , Piozzi Guglielmo Niccolo , Kwak Jung‐Myun , Kim Jinhee , Kim Taesung , Choo Jaegul , Yang Gene , Lee Tae Hoon , Baek Se Jin , Kim Jin , Kim Seon Hahn
Published: March 2022

Background

To compare laparoscopic camera navigation (LCN) quality between robot‐assisted laparoscopic surgery (RALS) and conventional laparoscopic surgery (CLS).

Methods

20 recordings were selected by propensity score matching and subjected to Python® software to generate single frames at one second intervals. For each frame, the pixel where the camera should be centred, based on instrument position, current action (dissection/haemostasis/traction) in the frame, was detected. LCN quality was reviewed by two independent surgeons to evaluate erroneous LCN.

Results

RALS had higher incidence of centred views (83.1 ± 4.02% vs. 76.0 ± 2.38%, p < 0.05) and a shorter distance between actual and optimal frame centres (123.3 ± 9.8 vs. 144.8 ± 13.9, p < 0.05) compared to CLS. Erroneous camera navigations were more frequent in CLS regarding total time of horizontal alignment failure (2.1 ± 2.2 vs. 6.0 ± 5.4 min, p = 0.063) and number of excessive zoom‐in visualization (0.1 ± 0.3 vs. 1.9 ± 1.4, p = 0.003).

Conclusions

RALS provided higher LCN quality than did CLS, emphasising the benefits of a surgeon‐controlled view.
Learning‐based hierarchical control for fault‐tolerant cooperation of networked marine surface vehicles
Authors: Liang Chang‐Duo , Ge Ming‐Feng , Wang Leimin , Liu Zhi‐Wei , Li Bo
Published: March 2022

In this article, an efficient hierarchical control framework is proposed to address the cooperation problems (e.g., consensus tracking, formation tracking, and time‐varying formation tracking) for the networked marine surface vehicles in the presence of external disturbances, actuator faults and failures. Based on this framework, several learning‐based hierarchical control algorithms are developed, involving an iterative learning‐based estimator and a local observer‐based finite‐time controller. The estimator is designed to achieve sufficiently precise estimation of the leader states through enough iterations, while the observer‐based finite‐time controller is used to observe and compensate the dynamic uncertainties as well as stabilize the error states in a finite time. By using the theories of Hurwitz, Schur, and Lyapunov stability, the sufficient conditions for guaranteeing the convergence of these learning‐based hierarchical control algorithms are derived. Finally, numerical simulations are performed on the Cyber‐Ships II to verify the effectiveness of the presented algorithms.
Approximating sparse graphs: The random overlapping communities model
Authors: Petti Samantha , Vempala Santosh S.
Published: March 2022

How can we approximate sparse graphs and sequences of sparse graphs (with unbounded average degree)? We consider convergence in the first moments of the graph spectrum (equivalent to the numbers of closed ‐walks) appropriately normalized. We introduce a simple random graph model that captures the limiting spectra of many sequences of interest, including the sequence of hypercube graphs. The random overlapping communities (ROC) model is specified by a distribution on pairs , . A graph on vertices with average degree is generated by repeatedly picking pairs from the distribution, adding an Erdős–Rényi random graph of edge density on a subset of vertices chosen by including each vertex with probability , and repeating this process so that the expected degree is . We also show that ROC graphs exhibit an inverse relationship between degree and clustering coefficient, a characteristic of many real‐world networks.
The double‐edged sword of boundary‐spanning Corporate Social Responsibility programs
Authors: Gatignon Aline
Published: March 2022

Research Summary

This paper builds theoretical arguments and shows empirical evidence of the direct benefits and indirect costs of corporate volunteering in developing countries. Spanning corporate and humanitarian sectors to work in challenging environments should activate motivational and learning benefits for participating employees. However, results from a field study of a 10‐year partnership between logistics provider TNT and the United Nations World Food Program show that such boundary‐spanning corporate social responsibility (CSR) can be a double‐edged sword. Task interdependence with nonprofit peers while volunteering strengthens employees' partnership identification and institutional learning. However, institutional learning triggers identity strain (associated with attrition) when they return, unless firms foster a sense that they recognize CSR experiences as valuable. The findings inform the behavioral and micro‐foundations of the potential consequences of CSR.

Managerial Summary

Firms expect to benefit from corporate volunteering programs in developing countries through employee motivation and new skill acquisition. This paper shows that task interdependence with nonprofit peers during such programs can strengthen employees' identification with a corporate‐nonprofit partnership and generate valuable institutional learning about operating in challenging environments. However, institutional learning can also trigger unanticipated costs in the form of identity strain (and, ultimately, attrition) when employees return, unless they feel their CSR experience is valued. Thus, firms should foster task interdependence during corporate volunteer assignments and CSR recognition to validate institutional learning when employees return.
Digital trade barriers and export performance: Evidence from China
Authors: Jiang Lingduo , Liu Shuangshuang , Zhang Guofeng
Published: March 2022

This paper investigates how Chinese manufacturing exports respond to destination countries' digital trade barriers. Using Chinese Customs data from 2014 to 2018 and data on countries' digital service trade restrictiveness by the OECD, we find that Chinese total manufacturing exports drop by 2.32%, or $30.92 billion, due to the increase in destination countries' composite digital trade barriers from 2014 to 2018. A further decomposition shows that the reduction is mostly explained by the decrease in export quantity, with export prices remaining relatively unchanged. Moreover, digital trade barriers decrease Chinese exports not only by depressing the exports of surviving products but also by reducing the exporting possibility of new entering products and increasing the risk of products' exiting. The heterogeneity analyses show that a favorable institutional environment helps alleviate the negative effects and that exports of high‐tech products are less sensitive to digital trade barriers.
Acid‐ and Base‐Stable Cs2Pt(Cl,Br)6 Vacancy‐Ordered Double Perovskites and Their Core–Shell Heterostructures for Solar Water Oxidation
Authors: Hamdan Muhammed , Manoj Manasa , Halpati Jigar Shaileshkumar , Chandiran Aravind Kumar
Published: March 2022

The stability of the absorber materials in an aqueous medium is the key to developing successful photoelectrochemical (PEC) solar fuel devices. The halide perovskite materials provide an opportunity to tune desired optoelectronic properties and show very high photovoltaic power conversion efficiency. However, their stability is poor as they decompose instantly in an aqueous electrolyte medium. Here the most stable vacancy ordered double perovskites Cs2PtCl6 and Cs2PtBr6, which remain intact in a wide range of pH values between 1 and 13 is reported. These materials also possess excellent absorption properties covering a significant portion of the visible spectrum. Like conventional ABX3 materials, these ultrastable materials offer tunability in optical properties via mixed halide sites. Through anion exchange, the conversion of Cs2PtCl6 to Cs2PtBr6 through core–shell conversion mechanism is shown. The latter led to the formation of type‐II heterostructures. The electrochemical properties of these materials are investigated in detail and their ability to carry out solar water oxidation on an unprotected photoanode, with photocurrent density of >0.2 mA cm−2 at 1.23 V (vs. RHE) is demonstrated.
Effect of Minor Carburizing on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of M50 Bearing Steel
Authors: Yu Xingfu , Shen Xiangyang , Wei Yinghua , Zhao Wenzeng , Li Yanbin , Xing Fei , Su Yong
Published: March 2022

Herein, by using scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscope, X‐ray diffraction, residual stress analyzer, and mechanical‐property tests, the effect of minor carburizing on the microstructure and mechanical properties of M50 steel is studied. It is shown in the results that after minor carburizing, the austenite content in the surface layer of the quenched M50 steel increases, while the martensite content and the hardness decrease. After tempering, the retained austenite in the surface layer is transformed into martensite, and a large amount of uniformly distributed carbides are precipitated. The hardness of the surface layer increases to exceed that of the core region in the steel. After the minor carburizing, there is a carbon concentration gradient between the surface layer and the core region of the M50 steel, which influences the phase transformation behavior and the residual stress state in the surface layer during the tempering process. Minor carburizing increases the rotational bending fatigue limit of the steel by 16.7% and improves the tensile strength, yield strength, and impact absorption energy of the steel.
Sensorless Control of a PMSM Drive Post an Open Circuit Failure Based on 3D‐SVPWM Technique
Authors: Saleh Kamel , Sumner Mark
Published: March 2022

This paper presents a novel technique to maintain the PMSM Drive operation post the failure in one phase and the failure of the speed sensor occur simultaneously. The PMSM motor is driven by a fault‐tolerant inverter. The use of the fault‐tolerant inverter associated with the using of the 3‐Dimension space vector pulse width modulation (3‐D SVPWM) allow the PMSM drive to maintain its performance post the failure in one phase. Moreover, the stability of the PMSM drive system is furtherly enhanced through utilizing a novel algorithm to obtain the rotor position and speed post the failure in the speed sensor. The algorithm is based on measuring the transient response of the remaining healthy currents post the failure due to the inverter switching actions. The results that are obtained through simulation prove the reliability of the system to maintain its operation post the failure in one phase of the motor and the failure in the speed sensor occurred simultaneously. Also, the results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed technique to maintain the performance of the PMSM drive system under different speeds steps and load conditions post the failure. © 2022 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Advancing animal health and disease research in the lab with three‐dimensional cell culture systems
Authors: Smith David , Price Daniel R.G. , Faber Marc N. , Chapuis Ambre F. , McNeilly Tom N.
Published: March 2022

The development of three‐dimensional cell culture systems representative of tissues from animals of veterinary interest is accelerating research that seeks to address specific questions tied to animal health. In terms of their relevance and complexity, these in vitro models can be seen as a midpoint between the more reductionist single‐cell culture systems and complex live animals. Organoids in particular represent a significant development due to their organised multicellular structure that more closely represents in vivo tissues than any other cell culture technology previously developed. In this review, we provide an overview of the different three‐dimensional cell culture systems available to veterinary researchers and give examples of their application in contexts relating to animal health.
RNA in situ hybridisation as a molecular diagnostic technique targeting IBA‐1 and CD204 in canine histiocytic sarcoma
Authors: Engelien Julia L , Lejeune Amandine T , Dark Michael J , Milner Rowan J , Shiomitsu Keijiro
Published: March 2022

Background

Canine histiocytic sarcoma (HS) is an aggressive cancer with morphologically variable features; therefore, obtaining a definitive diagnosis can be challenging. Two proteins, IBA‐1, ionised calcium‐binding adapter molecule 1, and CD204, a macrophage scavenger receptor, have been shown to be specific immunohistochemical markers helpful in distinguishing HS from other tumour types with similar morphological features.

Objectives

This study was performed to demonstrate the use of RNA in situ hybridisation (ISH) technology allowing single‐molecule RNA visualisation in formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) tissues as a molecular tool for the diagnosis of canine HS.

Methods

Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and western blot analysis for IBA‐1 and CD204 were performed to correlate gene expression and protein expression of these two markers in the histiocytic sarcoma DH82 cell line. RNA‐ISH for IBA‐1 and CD204 was performed on the DH82 cell line to validate the RNA‐ISH probes. RNA‐ISH and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were performed in clinical HS FFPE samples to demonstrate mRNA and protein expression of IBA‐1 and CD204. FFPE archived samples of canine round cell tumours, melanoma and anaplastic sarcoma were used as negative controls.

Results

RNA‐ISH and IHC showed moderate to strong expression for IBA‐1 and CD204 in the neoplastic cells in both the canine DH82 cell line and the archived canine HS samples. RNA‐ISH and IHC showed scattered positive staining in the control tumours samples, consistent with macrophagic infiltration.

Conclusion

RNA‐ISH for CD204 and IBA‐1 appeared to have a high specificity and sensitivity in our samples and may be an additional valuable diagnostic technique in identifying HS.
Problemstellung und Vorgehensweise
Authors: Braun Vera
Published: March 2022

Die Lehrerbildung in der Ukraine sieht sich einem doppelten Wertschätzungsproblem gegenüber. Zum einen betrifft dies den Lehrerberuf, zum anderen die berufliche Bildung. Die vorliegende Studie befasst sich mit der Wertschätzung beruflicher Bildung in der Ukraine. Es wird angenommen, dass eine Orientierung an der meritokratischen Logik einen wesentlichen Beitrag zur Geringschätzung beruflicher Bildung leistet. Kapitel 1 ordnet das Thema in seinen Kontext ein und expliziert die Relevanz, Fragestellung und Vorgehensweise der Studie.
Der idealtypische Zusammenhang zwischen Meritokratie und beruflicher Bildung
Authors: Braun Vera
Published: March 2022

Kapitel 3 erläutert die Methode der Idealtypuskonstruktion als Erstellung eines Schemas, das idealisierte Zusammenhänge enthält, jedoch kein normatives Ideal darstellt. Es legt eine Schrittfolge für die vorliegende Studie fest und arbeitet diese Schritte nacheinander analysierend ab. Japan und Frankreich als meritokratische Länder dienen als Beispiele anhand derer der Idealtypus gebildet wird.
Der Realtypus der Ukraine in Relation zur idealtypischen Ausprägung des Verhältnisses von Meritokratie und beruflicher Bildung
Authors: Braun Vera
Published: March 2022

Kapitel 4 erschließt den ukrainischen Realtypus und gleicht ihn mit dem Idealtypus  des Zusammenhangs zwischen Meritokratie und beruflicher Bildung ab. Dabei wird die Frage beantwortet, welche Funktion und Relevanz der Orientierung an der meritokratischen Denkfigur hinsichtlich der Geringschätzung beruflicher Bildung in der Ukraine zukommt.
Schlussbetrachtung
Authors: Braun Vera
Published: March 2022

Kapitel 5 fasst die Erkenntnisse der Studie zusammen und präsentiert Schlussfolgerungen.
Indepth combinatorial analysis of admissible sets for abstract argumentation
Authors: Croitoru Cosmina , Croitoru Madalina
Published: March 2022

In this paper we investigate, from a graph theoretical point of view, the notion of acceptability in Dung semantics for abstract argumentation frameworks. We advance the state of the art by introducing and analyzing combinatorial structures exploited for taming, in particular cases, the exponential blowout of acceptance algorithms. We conclude the paper by a series of observations allowing to deepen the intuition with respect to the practical use of Dung acceptance based semantics.
Change Over 11–13 Year Periods in Quality of Life, Emotional Problems and Negative Stressful Life Events Among 13–17 Year Old Students
Authors: Jozefiak Thomas , L. Wallander Jan , Lydersen Stian
Published: March 2022

Studies investigating changes in the general population over time concerning adolescent self-reported Quality of life (QoL) are sparse. The aim of this study is to investigate stability and change over more than a decade in self-reported QoL, emotional problems, and negative stressful life-events among students. Three large cross-sectional samples (N = 1032, 4744 and 3826) of 13–17-year-old adolescents attending public school in the Norwegian County of Trøndelag provide data, one from 2017 to 2019 and two from 11 and 13 years earlier. We analyzed linear and binary linear regression adjusted for age. We found few indications of large changes in overall QoL. The exception was a 50% increase in reported emotional problems in both girls and boys. Girls also reported an increase of sexually uncomfortable/abusive acts from peers from 3.7 to 7.0%. The observed changes must be addressed through public health interventions targeting school as an important arena.
Framing effects on risk-taking behavior: evidence from a field experiment in multiple-choice tests
Authors: Balart Pau , Ezquerra Lara , Hernandez-Arenaz Iñigo
Published: March 2022

We exploit testing data to gain better understanding on framing effects on decision-making and performance under risk. In a randomized field experiment, we modified the framing of scoring rules for penalized multiple-choice tests. In penalized multiple-choice tests, right answers are typically framed as gains while wrong answers are framed as losses (Mixed-framing). In the Loss-framing proposed, both non-responses and wrong answers are presented in a loss domain. According to our theoretical model, we expect the change in the framing to decrease students’ non-response and to increase students’ performance. Under the Loss-framing, students’ non-response reduces by a 18%-20%. However, it fails to increase students’ scores. Indeed, our results support the possibility of impaired performance in the Loss-framing.
The Predictive Relationship Between Sensory Reactivity and Depressive Symptoms in Young Autistic Children with Few to No Words
Authors: Rossow Timothy , MacLennan Keren , Tavassoli Teresa
Published: March 2022

Depression and sensory reactivity are both common in autism. However, there is little understanding of the predictive relationship between these factors, or the nature of this relationship in autistic children who speak few to no words. This study set out to explore the longitudinal relationship between sensory reactivity and depressive symptoms in 33 young autistic children who speak few to no words. We found positive correlations between depressive symptoms and hyper-reactivity and sensory seeking at both timepoints, and across timepoints. We further found a bidirectional predictive relationship between depressive symptoms and sensory seeking. These results implicate sensory seeking in the development of depressive symptoms in young autistic children who use few to no words. Our findings have important implications for preventative mental health interventions, especially for those with a developmental language delay.
Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis and Multiple Infectious Diseases in a Child with Autosomal Recessive Complete IRF8 Deficiency
Authors: Rosain Jérémie , Bernasconi Andrea , Prieto Emma , Caputi Lucia , Le Voyer Tom , Buda Guadalupe , Marti Marcelo , Bohlen Jonathan , Neehus Anna-Lena , Castaños Claudio , Gallagher Rosario , Dorgham Karim , Oleastro Matias , Perez Laura , Danielian Silvia , Dipierri Jose Edgardo , Casanova Jean-Laurent , Bustamante Jacinta , Villa Mariana
Published: March 2022

Background

Autosomal recessive (AR) complete IRF8 deficiency is a rare severe inborn error of immunity underlying an absence of blood myeloid mononuclear cells, intracerebral calcifications, and multiple infections. Only three unrelated patients have been reported.

Materials and Methods

We studied an Argentinian child with multiple infectious diseases and severe pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP). We performed whole-exome sequencing (WES) and characterized his condition by genetic, immunological, and clinical means.

Results

The patient was born and lived in Argentina. He had a history of viral pulmonary diseases, disseminated disease due to bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG), PAP, and cerebral calcifications. He died at the age of 10 months from refractory PAP. WES identified two compound heterozygous variants in IRF8: c.55del and p.R111*. In an overexpression system, the p.R111* cDNA was loss-of-expression, whereas the c.55del cDNA yielded a protein with a slightly lower molecular weight than the wild-type protein. The mutagenesis of methionine residues downstream from c.55del revealed a re-initiation of translation. However, both variants were loss-of-function in a luciferase assay, suggesting that the patient had AR complete IRF8 deficiency. The patient had no blood monocytes or dendritic cells, associated with neutrophilia, and normal counts of NK and other lymphoid cell subsets.

Conclusion

We describe the fourth patient with AR complete IRF8 deficiency. This diagnosis should be considered in children with PAP, which is probably due to the defective development or function of alveolar macrophages.
New Metabolic Alterations and a Predictive Marker Pipecolic Acid in Sera for Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Liu Lei , Wu Jia , Shi Minxin , Wang Fengying , Lu Haimin , Liu Jibing , Chen Weiqin , Yu Guanzhen , Liu Dan , Yang Jing , Luo Qin , Ni Yan , Jin Xing , Jin Xiaoxia , Chen Wen-Lian
Published: March 2022

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a major histological subtype of esophageal cancer with a poor prognosis. Although several serum metabolomic investigations have been reported, ESCC tumor-associated metabolic alterations and predictive biomarkers in sera have not been defined. Here, we enrolled 34 treatment-naive patients with ESCC and collected their pre- and post-esophagectomy sera together with the sera from 34 healthy volunteers for a metabolomic survey. Our comprehensive analysis identified ESCC tumor-associated metabolic alterations as represented by a panel of 12 serum metabolites. Notably, postoperative abrosia and parenteral nutrition substantially perturbed the serum metabolome. Furthermore, we performed an examination using sera from carcinogen-induced mice at the dysplasia and ESCC stages and identified three ESCC tumor-associated metabolites conserved between mice and humans. Notably, among these metabolites, the level of pipecolic acid was observed to be progressively increased in mouse sera from dysplasia to cancerization, and it could be used to accurately discriminate between mice at the dysplasia stage and healthy control mice. Furthermore, this metabolite is essential for ESCC cells to restrain oxidative stress-induced DNA damage and cell proliferation arrest. Together, this study revealed a panel of 12 ESCC tumor-associated serum metabolites with potential for monitoring therapeutic efficacy and disease relapse, presented evidence for refining parenteral nutrition composition, and highlighted serum pipecolic acid as an attractive biomarker for predicting ESCC tumorigenesis.
Heavy Precipitation Impacts on Nitrogen Loading to the Gulf of Mexico in the 21st Century: Model Projections Under Future Climate Scenarios
Authors: Zhang Jien , Lu Chaoqun , Crumpton William , Jones Christopher , Tian Hanqin , Villarini Gabriele , Schilling Keith , Green David
Published: March 2022

While spatial heterogeneity of riverine nitrogen (N) loading is predominantly driven by the magnitude of basin‐wide anthropogenic N input, the temporal dynamics of N loading are closely related to the amount and timing of precipitation. However, existing studies do not disentangle the contributions of heavy precipitation versus non‐heavy precipitation predicted by future climate scenarios. Here, we explore the potential responses of N loading from the Mississippi Atchafalaya River Basin to precipitation changes using a well‐calibrated hydro‐ecological model and Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 climate projections under two representative concentration pathway (RCP) scenarios. With present agricultural production and management practices, N loading could increase up to 30% by the end of the 21st century under future climate scenarios, half of which would be driven by heavy precipitation. Particularly, the RCP8.5 scenario, in which heavy precipitation and drought events become more frequent, would increase N loading disproportionately to projected increases in river discharge. N loading in spring would contribute 41% and 51% of annual N loading increase under the RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 scenarios, respectively, most of which is related to higher N yield due to increases in heavy precipitation. Anthropogenic N inputs would be increasingly susceptible to leaching loss in the Midwest and the Mississippi Alluvial Plain regions. Our results imply that future climate change alone, including more frequent and intense precipitation extremes, would increase N loading and intensify the eutrophication of the Gulf of Mexico over this coming century. More effective nutrient management interventions are needed to reverse this trend.
Using Machine Learning to Predict Inland Aquatic CO2 and CH4 Concentrations and the Effects of Wildfires in the Yukon‐Kuskokwim Delta, Alaska
Authors: Ludwig Sarah M. , Natali Susan M. , Mann Paul J. , Schade John D. , Holmes Robert M. , Powell Margaret , Fiske Greg , Commane Roisin
Published: March 2022

Climate change is causing an intensification in tundra fires across the Arctic, including the unprecedented 2015 fires in the Yukon‐Kuskokwim (YK) Delta. The YK Delta contains extensive surface waters (∼33% cover) and significant quantities of organic carbon, much of which is stored in vulnerable permafrost. Inland aquatic ecosystems act as hot‐spots for landscape CO2 and CH4 emissions and likely represent a significant component of the Arctic carbon balance, yet aquatic fluxes of CO2 and CH4 are also some of the most uncertain. We measured dissolved CH4 and CO2 concentrations (n = 364), in surface waters from different types of waterbodies during summers from 2016 to 2019. We used Sentinel‐2 multispectral imagery to classify landcover types and area burned in contributing watersheds. We develop a model using machine learning to assess how waterbody properties (size, shape, and landscape properties), environmental conditions (O2, temperature), and surface water chemistry (dissolved organic carbon composition, nutrient concentrations) help predict in situ observations of CH4 and CO2 concentrations across deltaic waterbodies. CO2 concentrations were negatively related to waterbody size and positively related to waterbody edge effects. CH4 concentrations were primarily related to organic matter quantity and composition. Waterbodies in burned watersheds appeared to be less carbon limited and had longer soil water residence times than in unburned watersheds. Our results illustrate the importance of small lakes for regional carbon emissions and demonstrate the need for a mechanistic understanding of the drivers of greenhouse gasses in small waterbodies.
Spatial Variations in Magmatic Volatile Influx and Fluid Boiling in the Submarine Hydrothermal Systems of Niuatahi Caldera, Tonga Rear‐Arc
Authors: Falkenberg Jan J. , Keith Manuel , Haase Karsten M. , Sporer Christian , Bach Wolfgang , Klemd Reiner , Strauss Harald , Storch Bettina , Peters Christian , Rubin Kenneth H. , Anderson Melissa O.
Published: March 2022

Submarine caldera volcanoes may host several hydrothermal systems along the caldera wall and related to volcanic cones. Fluid boiling and magmatic volatile influx are common processes in shallow (<2,000 mbsl) subduction zone‐related environments causing variations in the mineralogical and chemical composition of seafloor hydrothermal mineralizations that remain poorly constrained. The submarine caldera of Niuatahi volcano, Tonga rear‐arc, hosts four active vent sites discharging high temperature fluids (<334°C) with variable salinities (369–583 mM Cl) that are indicative of fluid boiling, recorded by distinct Te/As and Te/Au in pyrite, sphalerite, and chalcopyrite. High sulfidation mineral assemblages (e.g., enargite), stable S isotope data and similar trace element signatures in sulfides and native S condensates suggest a minor and/or infrequent contribution of magmatic SO2 to the hydrothermal systems located proximal to the caldera center causing a volatile element (e.g., Se, Bi, Te) enrichment. The hydrothermal system at the northern caldera wall is decoupled from the magmatic SO2 source, as revealed by radiogenic Pb isotopes. Instead, S isotope and trace element constraints propose a host rock‐dominated hydrothermal system, lacking a magmatic volatile influx. The observed hydrothermal fractionation processes (fluid boiling) and the distinct metal (loid) sources (magmatic volatiles vs. host rock) represent a continuum from magmatic volatile‐ to host rock‐dominated hydrothermal systems within the Niuatahi caldera. This leads to seafloor mineralizations with spatially selective trace element enrichments, like Te, Se, and Bi (±Au, Ag) in the caldera center compared to Au, Ag, Zn, Cd, and Pb at the northern caldera wall.
Repeated Tidally Induced Hydrofracture of a Supraglacial Lake at the Amery Ice Shelf Grounding Zone
Authors: Trusel Luke D. , Pan Zhuolai , Moussavi Mahsa
Published: March 2022

Surface melting and lakes are common to Antarctic ice shelves, and their existence and drainages have been invoked as a precursor for ice shelf collapse. Here, we present satellite observations over 2014–2020 of repeated, rapid drainages of a supraglacial lake at the grounding zone of Amery Ice Shelf, East Antarctica. Post‐drainage imagery in 2018 reveals lake bottom features characteristic of rapid, vertical lake drainage. Observed lake volumes indicate drainages are not associated with a threshold meltwater volume. Instead, drainages typically coincide with periods of high daily tidal amplitude, suggesting hydrofracture is assisted by tidally forced ice flexure inherent to the ice shelf grounding zone. Combined with observations of widespread grounding zone lake drainages on Amery, these findings indicate ice shelf meltwater accumulation may be inhibited by grounding zone drainage events, thus representing a potential stabilizing mechanism despite enhanced melting common to these regions.
Evidence for the Superposition of Tectonic Systems in the Northern Songliao Block, NE China, Revealed by a 3‐D Electrical Resistivity Model
Authors: Wang Tianqi , Ma Guoqing , Comeau Matthew J. , Becken Michael , Zhou Zikun , Liu Wenyu , Kang Jianqiang , Han Jiangtao
Published: March 2022

The creation and evolution of the Songliao Block, Northeast China, is believed to be related to the closure of the Paleo‐Asian and Mongol‐Okhotsk oceans, and to the subduction of the Paleo‐Pacific Ocean. Geochemical and geophysical data indicate a complex tectonic history that may have left signatures of the superposition of separate tectonic events. However, the relationship between the current lithospheric structure of the Songliao Block and those tectonic events is not clear. In order to shed light on this question, a three‐dimensional electrical resistivity model of the crust and mantle was generated from 138 magnetotelluric sites. The results show a heterogenous lithosphere with anomalous low‐resistivity zones (∼10 Ω·m). The position of upper‐crustal features (<10 km) correlates with a network of fault systems and rift basins. Based on estimates of high crustal temperatures, mid‐lower crustal features (15–35 km), some of which appear near seismic reflectors, are attributed to partial melts (∼5%) containing moderate‐high water contents (4.5 wt. %). A deep (>45 km) feature is interpreted as an asthenospheric upwelling near the center of the Songliao Block, where seismic evidence indicates a thin lithosphere. It is proposed that the collision, convergence, and suturing of blocks caused by the closure of the Paleo‐Asian Ocean and the bidirectional convergence between the Mongol‐Okhotsk and Paleo‐Pacific Ocean may have produced weak tectonic zones throughout the lithosphere. They provided a structural basis for the later upward movement of fluids and melt, likely due to hydrous upwellings caused by the subduction of the Paleo‐Pacific system.
Climate Controls on the Interseasonal and Interannual Variability of the Surface Mass and Energy Balances of a Tropical Glacier (Zongo Glacier, Bolivia, 16°S): New Insights From the Multi‐Year Application of a Distributed Energy Balance Model
Authors: Autin P. , Sicart J. E. , Rabatel A. , Soruco A. , Hock R.
Published: March 2022

The application of a distributed energy balance model over nine years at an hourly time step to a 20 × 20 m grid cell over Glacier Zongo (Bolivia, 16°S) enabled assessment of the climate factors that control the interseasonal and interannual variability of its surface mass balance. The model was validated by comparing the measured and simulated discharge at the outlet, albedo at the Automatic Weather Station, surface state and annual mass balance both glacier‐wide and as a function of altitude. Analysis of the mean monthly energy fluxes highlighted the importance of the meteorological conditions over October and November on the variability of the annual surface mass balance. Two sensitivity analyses are presented, one of the distribution of precipitation over time which maintains a physical coherence between the different meteorological variables and one of the impact of prolonged periods of intense cloud radiative forcing on the surface mass balance. The distribution of precipitation events over time and their associated amounts are the main drivers of the interannual variability of the surface mass balance via an albedo feedback effect. Additionally, prolonged periods of negative cloud radiative forcing, specifically over the month of November, notably reduce the melt rate.