bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of inhibitory properties of Ce‐citrate as a green corrosion inhibitor of low alloy steel in neutral chloride solution
Authors: Marunkić Dunja , Jegdić Bore , Pejić Jovanka , Milošević Milena , Marinković Aleksandar , Radojković Bojana
Published: February 2022

The new environmentally friendly corrosion inhibitor Ce‐citrate was analyzed in 0.05 M NaCl solution on the AISI 4130 steel. For comparison, corrosion inhibitor Ce‐chloride is tested in the same concentration as Ce‐citrate (0.3 mM). Inhibitor efficiencies were determined by applying electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and potentiodynamic polarization measurements. The results of electrochemical measurements, the contact angle measurements, as well as the surface appearance of the specimens after the immersion in the inhibitive NaCl solution for 96 h confirmed that the new environmentally friendly inhibitor (Ce‐citrate) has a significantly higher protective ability than the Ce‐chloride. The protective ability of Ce‐citrate increases over time, according to the proposed mechanism of its action. In the inhibitive layer formed in NaCl solution containing Ce‐citrate, XPS analysis revealed the presence of cerium in oxidation states CeIII and CeIV, citrate anions (carboxyl O–C═O group as well as C–OH and C–C and C–H bonds), oxide, hydroxide, and oxyhydroxide of iron (mainly FeOOH and Fe2O3). The mechanism of inhibitory action of Ce‐citrate was proposed and analyzed in detail.
A comparative analysis of perforation and blister features on internally corroded aged water pipeline wall
Authors: Martinez Sanja , Ilhan‐Sungur Esra , Cansever Nurhan , Khoshnaw Fuad
Published: February 2022

Despite well‐controlled chlorination, no known operational outages and physicochemical parameters of the water indicating a slight tendency to form carbonate deposits, aged and internally uncoated pipelines may experience unexpected internal corrosion events that raise integrity concerns. A typical corrosion damage was investigated consisting of a single perforation covered by a corrosion product cap (CPC) approximately 5 cm in diameter and surrounded by a relatively dense population of blisters of approx. 1 cm in diameter covering shallow corrosion pits. It was observed on the inner wall of an aged on‐land water distribution pipeline after decades of corrosion‐free operation. A dense population of bacteria, sulphides and extracellular polysaccharide substances were detected in the CPC, but none at the pit bottom surrounding the perforation and within the blisters, but abundant fungi were observed on scanning electron microscopy images of the blister bottom. The morphology of the blisters suggests that the blister formation is due to the loss of adhesion of the corrosion product layer, which is influenced by the formation of spherulitic crystals. The Fourier transform infra‐red spectroscopy results suggest that the growth of these carbonate crystals is related to the adsorption of microbially generated carbonyl groups. The results support a likely scenario of the effect of biomineralization on the appearance of corrosion through the formation of blisters, which may provide a niche for microbes that eventually cause corrosion damage.
Impact of Telechelic Polymer Precursors on the Viscoelastic Properties of Vitrimers
Authors: Nakamura Yasuyuki , Tenjimbayashi Mizuki , Moriya Akinori , Naito Masanobu
Published: February 2022

The viscoelastic property of vitrimers, which belong to a group of covalent bond adaptable networks, is one of the most critical properties during the applications of these materials. Herein, the significant effect of the network architecture of the cross‐linked polymers, particularly the arrangements of cross‐links and chains, on the viscoelastic property, which is determined directly from the structure of the precursor polymers, is reported. The systematic investigation reveals that vitrimers from telechelic polymers with reactive groups at the chain ends show a sharp elastic modulus decrease. Furthermore, these polymers demonstrate highly fluid‐like behavior at elevated temperature and fast stress relaxation, compared to vitrimers from random copolymers that have similar chain length and number of cross‐linking groups.
Improved multi‐echo gradient echo myelin water fraction mapping using complex‐valued neural network analysis
Authors: Jung Soozy , Yun JiSu , Kim Deog Young , Kim Dong‐Hyun
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Previously, an artificial neural network method was introduced to estimate quantitative myelin water fraction (MWF) using multi‐echo gradient‐echo data. However, the fiber orientation of white matter with respect to B0 could bias the quantification of MWF. Here, we developed an advanced workflow for MWF estimation that could improve the quantification of MWF.

Methods

To adopt fiber orientation effects, a complex‐valued neural network with complex‐valued operation was used. In addition, to compensate for the bias from different scan parameters, a signal model incorporating the T1 value was devised for training data generation. At the testing stage, a voxel‐spread function approach was utilized for spatial B0 artifact correction. Finally, dropout‐based variational inference was implemented for uncertainty estimates on the network model to provide a confidence interpretation of the output.

Results

According to simulation and in vivo analysis, the proposed method suggests improved quality of MWF estimation by correcting the bias and artifacts. The proposed complex‐valued neural network approach can alleviate the dependency of fiber orientation effects compared to previous artificial neural network method. Uncertainty estimates provides information different from fitting error that can be used as a confidence level of the resulting MWF values.

Conclusion

An improved MWF mapping using complex‐valued neural network analysis has been proposed.
Performance of orientation distribution function‐fingerprinting with a biophysical multicompartment diffusion model
Authors: Filipiak Patryk , Shepherd Timothy , Lin Ying‐Chia , Placantonakis Dimitris G. , Boada Fernando E. , Baete Steven H.
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Orientation Distribution Function (ODF) peak finding methods typically fail to reconstruct fibers crossing at shallow angles below 40°, leading to errors in tractography. ODF‐Fingerprinting (ODF‐FP) with the biophysical multicompartment diffusion model allows for breaking this barrier.

Methods

A randomized mechanism to generate a multidimensional ODF‐dictionary that covers biologically plausible ranges of intra‐ and extra‐axonal diffusivities and fraction volumes is introduced. This enables ODF‐FP to address the high variability of brain tissue. The performance of the proposed approach is evaluated on both numerical simulations and a reconstruction of major fascicles from high‐ and low‐resolution in vivo diffusion images.

Results

ODF‐FP with the suggested modifications correctly identifies fibers crossing at angles as shallow as 10 degrees in the simulated data. In vivo, our approach reaches 56% of true positives in determining fiber directions, resulting in visibly more accurate reconstruction of pyramidal tracts, arcuate fasciculus, and optic radiations than the state‐of‐the‐art techniques. Moreover, the estimated diffusivity values and fraction volumes in corpus callosum conform with the values reported in the literature.

Conclusion

The modified ODF‐FP outperforms commonly used fiber reconstruction methods at shallow angles, which improves deterministic tractography outcomes of major fascicles. In addition, the proposed approach allows for linearization of the microstructure parameters fitting problem.
The effectiveness of post‐professional physical therapist training in the treatment of chronic low back pain using a propensity score approach with machine learning
Authors: Cheema Carolyn , Baldwin Jonathan , Rodeghero Jason , Werneke Mark W. , Mioduski Jerry E. , Jeffries Lynn , Kucksdorf Joseph , Shepherd Mark , Randall Ken , Dionne Carol
Published: February 2022

Rationale

Low back pain (LBP) is a leading cause of disability in the United States creating substantial hardships through negative social, financial, and health effects. Chronic low back pain (CLBP) accounted for above half of patients treated in physical therapy (PT) clinics for LBP. However, research shows small benefit from PT in CLBP treatment. Preliminary evidence suggests clinician‐level training variables may affect outcomes, but requires further investigation to determine whether patients with CLBP benefit from treatment by providers with post‐professional training. This study examined the relationship between clinician training levels and patient‐reported outcomes in CLBP treatment.

Methods

Physical therapies were surveyed using a large patient outcome assessment system to determine and categorise them by level of post‐professional education. To account for the possibility that clinicians with higher levels of training are referred more‐complex patients, a machine learning approach was used to identify predictive variables for clinician group, then to construct propensity scores to account for differences between groups. Differences in functional status score change among pooled data were analysed using linear models adjusted for propensity scores.

Results

There were no clinically meaningful differences in patient outcomes when comparing clinician post‐professional training level. The propensity score method proved to be a valuable way to account for differences at baseline between groups.

Conclusion

Post‐professional training does not appear to contribute to improved patient outcomes in the treatment of CLBP. This study demonstrates that propensity score analysis can be used to ensure that differences observed are true and not due to differences at baseline.
Largemouth Bass Hatchery Contributions Quantified via Parentage-Based Tagging
Authors: Hargrove John S. , Dockendorf Kevin J. , Potoka Kathryn M. , Smith Christopher A. , Alvarez Valentina , Austin James D.
Published: February 2022

Largemouth Bass Micropterus salmoides are the focus of a billion-dollar (US$1 × 109) recreational fishery in North America and are subject to widespread hatchery supplementation efforts. Parentage-based tagging (PBT) uses genetic samples taken from hatchery broodstock to genetically “tag” offspring and represents a valuable approach to inform fisheries management and assess hatchery contributions in the wild. This study used a robust microsatellite panel for PBT with Largemouth Bass that reliably discriminated among individuals and siblings and that had low parentage error rates (i.e., false assignments). Genetic data from three cohorts of hatchery broodstock (184 individuals sampled across 3 years) were used to quantify the impacts of planting 150,346 fingerling Largemouth Bass into Lake Mattamuskeet, North Carolina. Parentage-based tagging detected low overall levels of hatchery contributions in the wild (4.1%), which varied as a function of collection year (range = 1.5–7.7%). Furthermore, hatchery contributions varied by broodstock cohort, with PBT detections being attributed to broodstock from only two of the three stocking years. The application of PBT for Largemouth Bass represents a cost-effective and practical approach to tag large numbers of hatchery offspring, monitor supplementation efforts, and evaluate the efficacy of different hatchery practices.
Numerical comparison of local transceiver arrays of fractionated dipoles and microstrip antennas for body imaging at 7 T
Authors: Stelter Jonathan K. , Ladd Mark E. , Fiedler Thomas M.
Published: February 2022

Longitudinally orientated dipoles and microstrip antennas have both demonstrated superior results as RF transmit elements for body imaging at 7 T MRI, and are as of today the most commonly used transmit elements. In this study, the performances of the two antenna concepts were compared for use in local RF antenna arrays by numerical simulations. Antenna elements investigated are the fractionated dipole and the microstrip line with meander structures. Phantom simulations with a single antenna element were performed and evaluated with regard to specific absorption rate (SAR) efficiency in the center of the subject. Simulations of array configurations with 8 and 16 elements were performed with anatomical body models. Both antenna elements were combined with a loop coil to compare hybrid configurations. Singular value decomposition of the B1+ fields, RF shimming, and calculation of the voxel‐wise power and SAR efficiencies were performed in regions of interest with varying sizes to evaluate the transmit performance. The signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) was evaluated to estimate the receive performance. Simulated data show similar transmit profiles for the two antenna types in the center of the phantom (penetration depth > 20 mm). For body imaging, no considerable differences were determined for the different antenna configurations with regard to the transmit performance. Results show the advantage of 16 transmit channels compared with today's commonly used 8‐channel systems (minimum RF shimming excitation error of 4.7% (4.3%) versus 2.7% (2.8%) for the 8‐channel and 16‐channel configurations with the microstrip antennas in a (5 cm)3 cube in the center of a male (female) body model). Highest SNR is achieved for the 16‐channel configuration with fractionated dipoles. The combination of either fractionated dipoles or microstrip antennas with loop coils is more favorable with regard to the transmit performance compared with only increasing the number of elements.
Increased nutrition risk at admission is associated with longer hospitalization in children and adolescents with COVID‐19
Authors: Zamberlan Patrícia , Carlotti Ana Paula de Carvalho Panzeri , Viani Karina Helena Canton , Rodriguez Isadora Souza , Simas Josiane de Carvalho , Silvério Ariadne Beatriz , Volpon Leila Costa , de Carvalho Werther Brunow , Delgado Artur Figueiredo
Published: February 2022

Background

We investigated the association of nutritional risk and inflammatory marker level with length of stay (LOS) in children and adolescents hospitalized for COVID‐19 infection in two pediatric teaching hospitals in a developing country.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional analytical retrospective study performed in two pediatric hospitals. We included the data from all children and adolescents who were hospitalized with a SARS‐CoV‐2 infection between March and December 2020. Demographic, anthropometric, clinical, and laboratory data were extracted from electronic medical records. Nutritional risk was assessed according to the STRONGkids tool within 24 hours of admission and was categorized into two levels: ≥4 (high risk) and <4 (moderate or low risk). Means or medians were compared between nutritional risk groups using the t test and Mann–WhitneyUtest, respectively. The association of nutritional risk and inflammatory markers with LOS was estimated using the Kaplan–Meier method and log‐rank test. Cox proportional‐hazard and linear regression models were performed, and adjusted for sex, age, and respiratory symptoms.

Results

From a total of 73 patients, 20 (27.4%) had a STRONGkids score ≥4 at admission, which was associated with a longer LOS even after adjusting (β= 12.30; 1.74–22.9 95% CI;P = 0.023). The same association was observed between LOS and all laboratory markers except for D‐dimer.

Conclusion

Among children and adolescents with COVID‐19, a STRONGkids score ≥4 at admission, lower values of albumin, lymphocytes, and hemoglobin, and higher CRP values were associated with longer LOS.
What are the links between tree‐based farming and dietary quality for rural households? A review of emerging evidence in low‐ and middle‐income countries
Authors: Vansant Emilie C. , Mausch Kai , Ickowitz Amy , McMullin Stepha , Karanja Alice , Rasmussen Laura Vang
Published: February 2022

In most low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs), conventional agricultural policy promotes specialized production systems of carbohydrate‐rich crops to address hunger and food insecurity. For rural populations, however, increased landscape uniformity can reduce both agrobiodiversity and wild biodiversity, which can contribute to diet uniformity. Although maintaining diversity in and around agricultural systems is far from a new approach, there is growing empirical attention on the contribution of trees on/around farms to dietary quality. While recent research suggests that forests can contribute to improved diets, there is only emerging evidence on how incorporating trees into farming systems not only benefits nature but also positively affects the diets of rural households.

This review synthesizes the existing empirical research on the linkages between different types of tree‐based farming systems and indicators of dietary quality in LMICs. The objective is to build a foundation for future research that supports sustainable production systems with dual benefits for people and the natural environment.

The small, yet heterogeneous literature pool (n = 36 studies) reflects the high variance in how trees on/around farms are examined across cultural and geographical contexts. Our analysis identifies three major outcomes: (a) managing tree‐based farming systems for both direct provision of wild and cultivated foods, as well as income used to purchase foods, may give households more strategies for dietary diversification and improve dietary quality; (b) the relationship between different tree‐based farming systems and dietary quality is moderated by socio‐economic and biophysical factors at the national, landscape and household levels; and (c) indigenous populations engaged in traditional forms of subsistence‐oriented tree‐based farming seem to maintain high levels of dietary diversity, indicating the importance of local knowledge and biodiversity stewardship to maintain these food sources in the face of commercial agricultural expansion.

Our synthesis of existing evidence highlights a need for a more nuanced understanding of how different types of tree‐based farming systems contribute to dietary quality. Combining research methods from the domains of agriculture, forestry and nutrition can lead to more precise measurement of tree‐based farming/diet linkages, and in doing so, support programs promoting increased landscape and dietary diversity in LMICs.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Enhanced properties of chitosan/hydroxypropyl methylcellulose/polyvinyl alcohol green bacteriostatic film composited with bamboo fiber and silane‐modified bamboo fiber
Authors: Chen Jianfu , Su Xiaochi , Zheng Meixia , Lin Junyan , Tan Kok Bing
Published: February 2022

This paper aims to improve the mechanical and antibacterial properties of chitosan/hydroxypropyl methylcellulose/polyvinyl alcohol blend film (CHP) with bamboo fiber modified with coupling agent. The effects of silane‐based coupling agent dosage on transmittance, water solubility, water vapor permeability (WVP), mechanical, and bacteriostatic properties were examined. The modification of the coupling agent enabled the modified bamboo fiber to be successfully participated in the film formation. Hence, the amount of coupling agent was varied, and it was found that the developed film containing 1 ml of coupling agent had the best overall performance. Water solubility and WVP of the film were decreased by 41.63% and 36.93%, respectively, which increase its waterproof capability. The tensile strength and elongation at break increased by 61.97% and 8.07%, respectively. This study shows that the chitosan, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose and polyvinyl alcohol composite film modified by both bamboo fiber and coupling agent may provide a choice for the development of bioactive packaging.
Validity of identification algorithms combining diagnostic codes with other measures for acute ischemic stroke in MID‐NET®
Authors: Tanigawa Masatoshi , Kohama Mei , Nonaka Takahiro , Saito Atsuko , Tamiya Ado , Nomura Hiroko , Kataoka Yoko , Okauchi Masanobu , Tamiya Takashi , Inoue Ryusuke , Nakayama Masaharu , Suzuki Takahiro , Uyama Yoshiaki , Yokoi Hideto
Published: February 2022

Purpose

We aimed to develop a reliable identification algorithm combining diagnostic codes with several treatment factors for inpatients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) to conduct pharmacoepidemiological studies using the administrative database MID‐NET® in Japan.

Methods

We validated 11 identification algorithms based on 56 different diagnostic codes (International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision; ICD‐10) using Diagnosis Procedure Combination (DPC) data combined with information on AIS therapeutic procedures added as “AND” condition or “OR” condition. The target population for this study was 366 randomly selected hospitalized patients with possible cases of AIS, defined as relevant ICD‐10 codes and diagnostic imaging and prescription or surgical procedure, in three institutions between April 1, 2015 and March 31, 2017. We determined the positive predictive values (PPVs) of these identification algorithms based on comparisons with a gold standard consisting of chart reviews by experienced specialist physicians. Additionally, the sensitivities of them among 166 patients with the possible cases of AIS at a single institution were evaluated.

Results

The PPVs were 0.618 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.566–0.667) to 0.909 (95% CI: 0.708–0.989) and progressively increased with adding or limiting information on AIS therapeutic procedures as “AND” condition in the identification algorithms. The PPVs for identification algorithms based on diagnostic codes I63.x were >0.8. However, the sensitivities progressively decreased to a maximum of ~0.2 after adding information on AIS therapeutic procedures as “AND” condition.

Conclusions

The identification algorithms based on the combination of appropriate ICD‐10 diagnostic codes in DPC data and other AIS treatment factors may be useful to studies for AIS at a national level using MID‐NET®.
Effectiveness and use of reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction point of care testing in a large‐scale COVID‐19 surveillance system
Authors: Mack Christina D. , Wasserman Erin B. , Hostler Christopher J. , Solomon Gary , Anderson Deverick J. , Walton Patti , Hawaldar Kalyani , Myers Emily , Best Michele , Eichner Daniel , Mayer Thom , Sills Allen
Published: February 2022

Background

Rapid COVID‐19 testing platforms can identify infected individuals at the point of care (POC), allowing immediate isolation of infected individuals and reducing the risk of transmission. While lab‐based nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT) is often considered the gold standard to detect SARS‐CoV‐2 in the community, results typically take 2–7 days to return, rendering POC testing a critical diagnostic tool for infection control. The National Football League (NFL) and NFL Players Association deployed a new POC testing strategy using a newly available reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) rapid test during the 2020 season, and evaluated diagnostic effectiveness compared to other available devices using real‐world population surveillance data.

Methods

RT‐PCR POC test results were compared to NAAT results from same‐day samples by calculation of positive and negative concordance. Sensitivity analyses were performed for three subgroups: (1) individuals symptomatic at time of positive test; (2) individuals tested during the pilot phase of rollout; and (3) individuals tested daily.

Results

Among 4989 same‐day POC/NAAT pairs, 4957 (99.4%) were concordant, with 93.1% positive concordance and 99.6% negative concordance. Based on adjudicated case status, the false negative rate was 0.2% and false positive rate was 2.9%. In 43 instances, the immediate turnaround of results by POC allowed isolation of infected individuals 1 day sooner than lab‐based testing. Positive/negative concordance in sensitivity analyses were relatively stable.

Conclusion

RT‐PCR POC testing provided timely results that were highly concordant with lab‐based NAAT in population surveillance. Expanded use of effective RT‐PCR POC can enable rapid isolation of infected individuals and reduce COVID‐19 infection in the community.
Fabrication and characterization of gamma‐irradiated nanomarble/acrylonitrile and styrene butadiene rubber nanocomposites
Authors: Fathy E. S. , Awad Eman H. , Elnaggar Mona Y.
Published: February 2022

A comparative study on two nanocomposites based namely on acrylonitrile‐butadiene (NBR) and styrene‐butadiene (SBR) synthetic rubbers, reinforced by varying ratios of waste nanomarble particles (WM) was carried out. Silane which served as coupling agent was applied in treating waste marble (TWM) and the characters of the prepared nanocomposites before and after treatments were examined. Nanocomposites were fabricated using a laboratory roll mill and pressed under heat, then irradiated with gamma‐rays at 100 kGy. Filler characterization, using the techniques transmission electron microscopy (TEM), FTIR spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) were discussed. TEM micrographs revealed that though untreated WM particles were within the nanometer scale, however showed incremental reduction in size via silane treatment. Mechanical parameters, thermal stability, FTIR and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of the advanced NBR and SBR nanocomposites have been studied. Filler loading with 5 wt% led to remarked improvement in the tensile strength (TS), modulus of elasticity (M100), and tearing strength of the NBR nanocomposite samples. Meanwhile, elongation at break of SBR nanocomposites exhibited regressive behavior. Thermal stability testing of pristine NBR and SBR specimens demonstrated adverse features by compounding with untreated and treated waste nanomarble. Furthermore, gamma irradiated NBR nanocomposites reinforced with TWM indicated appreciable development at all thermogravimetric stages. Whereas, irradiation of SBR nanocomposites with a gamma integral dose of 100 kGy resulted in slight enhancement in thermal stability.
Large area co‐plated bifacial n‐PERT cells with polysilicon passivating contacts on both sides
Authors: Singh Sukhvinder , Choulat Patrick , Govaerts Jonathan , van der Heide Arvid , Depauw Valérie , Duerinckx Filip , Naber Ronald , Lenes Martijn , Renes Marten , Tous Loic , Poortmans Jef
Published: February 2022

In this work, we show the integration of polysilicon‐based passivating contacts in plated bifacial n‐type PERT (passivated emitter and rear totally diffused) solar cells. We show the viability of n‐PERT cells using two‐side passivating contacts with two‐side plated nickel/silver metallization. Compared with commercially available “TOPCon” cells with rear side passivated contacts only, n‐PERT cells with both side passivated contacts should enable the exploitation of the full potential of passivated contacts. We show that both n‐poly and p‐poly were applied and co‐plated successfully on both sides of n‐PERT solar cells. Considering the potential parasitic absorption losses on the front side of the device originating from p‐poly, we applied selective p‐poly by patterning. We compared two patterning methods for front side polysilicon: the masking and etch approach using inkjet printing and a simple and cost‐effective patterning method using UV laser oxidation. A best efficiency of 22.7% has been achieved with these cells so far on large area (244.3 cm2) n‐type Cz, with a potential efficiency above 24%. Some of these co‐plated bifacial cells have been processed into one‐cell laminates using smart wire interconnection (SWCT) technology. These have passed thermal cycling (TC) tests as defined in IEC61215.
A comparison of Dignity Therapy narratives among people with severe mental illness and people with cancer
Authors: Grassi Luigi , Nanni Maria Giulia , Caruso Rosangela , Ounalli Heifa , Chochinov Harvey M. , Biancosino Bruno , Testoni Ines , Murri Martino Belvederi , Bertelli Tatiana , Palagini Laura , De Padova Silvia , Tiberto Elisa
Published: February 2022

Objective

To examine Dignity Therapy (DT) narratives in patients with severe mental illness (SMI) and a control group of cancer patients.

Methods

12 patients with SMI (schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, sever personality disorders) and 12 patients with non‐advanced cancer individually participated to DT interviews. DT was tape‐recorded, transcribed verbatim and shaped into a narrative through a preliminary editing process. A session was dedicated to the final editing process along with the participant, with a final written legacy (generativity document) provided to the participant. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis was used to qualitatively analyze the generativity documents.

Results

Patients with SMI and patients with cancer presented similar main narrative categories relative to dignity, such as “Meaning making”, “Resources”, “Legacy”, “Dignity”; in addition, inpatients with SMI “Stigma” and inpatients with cancer “Injustice" emerged as separate categories. Patients in both groups strongly appreciated DT as an opportunity to reflect on their life story and legacy.

Conclusions

The study showed that DT is a valuable intervention for people with SMI, grounded in a practical, person‐centered approach. All patients found DT as an opportunity to describe their past and present, highlighting changes in the way they relate to themselves and others. These results can guide implementation of DT in mental health settings for people with SMI, as it is for people with cancer.
Routine laboratory test to assess the need of respiratory support in acute bronchiolitis
Authors: Rodríguez‐González Moisés , Estepa‐Pedregosa Lorena , Estalella‐Mendoza Ana , Rodríguez‐Campoy Patricia , Romero‐Castillo Estefanía , Castellano‐Martínez Ana , Flores‐González Jose C.
Published: February 2022

Background and Objectives

Accurate and readily available biomarkers to predict the clinical course of bronchiolitis would enable enhanced decision‐making in this setting. We explored the relationship of several biochemical parameters available at the pediatric emergency care setting with the need of advanced respiratory support (ARS): continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), biphasic positive airway pressure (BiPAP), or invasive mechanical ventilation (MV) in bronchiolitis.

Methods

Single‐center, prospective, observational, including infants aged less than 12 months diagnosed with acute bronchiolitis at the Pediatric Emergency Department. Determination of plasmatic values of several laboratory tests was performed at the time of hospital admission. Multivariate logistic analysis identified independent predictors for need of ARS.

Results

From October 1, 2018 to May 1, 2020, we recruited 149 infants (58% males; median age of 1 [0.5–2.5] month). Thirty‐seven (25%) cases required ARS. After adjusting by age, bacterial superinfection, and comorbidities in the multivariate analysis, only higher levels of glycemia (p = 0.001), C‐reactive protein (CRP) (p = 0.028), CRP/albumin ratio (p = 0.032), and NT‐proBNP (p = 0.001) remained independently associated with ARS. These biomarkers reached moderate prediction accuracy with area under the curve of receiver operator curve curves ranging from 0.701 to 0.830 (p = 0.001). All they presented relatively high specificity (0.75–0.84) and negative predictive values (0.77–0.89) with low sensitivity and positive predictive values. They also correlated significantly with length of stay hospitalization (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

Increased plasmatic levels of CRP, CRP/albumin ratio, glycemia, and NT‐proBNP at hospital admission are associated with the need for ARS in infants with acute bronchiolitis.
Lucidone inhibits autophagy and MDR1 via HMGB1/RAGE/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in pancreatic cancer cells
Authors: Chen Sheng‐Yi , Hsu Yi‐Hao , Wang Sheng‐Yang , Chen Ying‐Yin , Hong Cheng‐Jie , Yen Gow‐Chin
Published: February 2022

Gemcitabine (GEM) drug resistance remains a difficult challenge in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) treatment. Therefore, identifying a safe and effective treatment strategy for PDAC is urgent. Lucidone is a natural compound extracted from the fruits of Lindera erythrocarpa Makino. However, the role of lucidone in PDAC inhibition remains unclear. In addition, high‐mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) and receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) are involved in multidrug resistance protein 1 (MDR1) regulation and GEM resistance. Thus, this study aimed to explore the function of lucidone in tumor cytotoxicity and chemosensitivity through the suppression of RAGE‐initiated signaling in PDAC cells. The data showed that lucidone significantly promoted apoptotic cell death and inhibited the expression of autophagic proteins (Atg5, Beclin‐1, LC3‐II, and Vps34) and MDR1 by inhibiting the HMGB1/RAGE/PI3K/Akt axis in both MIA Paca‐2 cells and MIA Paca‐2GEMR cells (GEM‐resistant cells). Notably, convincing data were also obtained in experiments involving RAGE‐specific siRNA transfection. In addition, remarkable cell proliferation was observed after treatment with lucidone combined with GEM, particularly in MIA Paca‐2GEMR cells, indicating that lucidone treatment enhanced chemosensitivity. Collectively, this study provided the underlying mechanism by which lucidone treatment inhibited HMGB1/RAGE‐initiated PI3K/Akt/MDR1 signaling and consequently enhanced chemosensitivity in PDAC.
Effects of antioxidant co‐supplementation therapy on spermatogenesis dysfunction in relation to the basal oxidation–reduction potential levels in spermatozoa: A pilot study
Authors: Yamasaki Kazumitsu , Uchida Masahiro , Watanabe Noriko , Ihana Tatsuji , Ishiguro Yukari , Kuroda Shinnosuke , Takeshima Teppei , Yumura Yasushi , Mieno Makiko , Yoshida Kaoru , Iwamoto Teruaki , Nishiyama Hiroyuki
Published: February 2022

Purpose

In this pilot study, the authors compared the effects of antioxidant co‐supplementation therapy and methylcobalamin therapy in patients with impaired semen quality.

Methods

Eighty‐four subjects who visited male infertility clinics and showed abnormal semen test results were randomly subjected to one of the two therapies: antioxidant co‐supplementation therapy with vitamin C, vitamin E, coenzyme Q10, and flaxseed oil or methylcobalamin therapy. The oxidation–reduction potential (ORP) and 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine levels were used as indicators of oxidative stress levels in semen. Semen analysis was also performed.

Results

The authors obtained results from 67 patients who had completed 3 months of treatment. Neither antioxidant co‐supplementation therapy nor methylcobalamin therapy changed the semen parameters significantly (except for the sperm concentration, which was increased by the latter therapy). When the pre‐treatment ORP value in semen was higher than the cutoff value, both therapies significantly increased the sperm concentration. The 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine level did not yield any meaningful predictive value with regard to increased sperm concentrations.

Conclusions

Both antioxidant co‐supplementation therapy and methylcobalamin therapy increased the sperm concentration in patients with impaired semen quality when the basal ORP levels in their semen were elevated.
Disturbance observer based control for dynamically positioned ships with ocean environmental disturbances and actuator saturation
Authors: Wei Xinjiang , You Lihong , Zhang Huifeng , Hu Xin , Han Jian
Published: February 2022

The antidisturbance control scheme for the dynamically positioned ships with ocean environmental disturbances and actuator saturation was presented. The ocean environmental disturbances comprises slowly varying disturbances and additional stochastic disturbances. The stochastic disturbance observer was constructed to online estimate the slowly varying disturbances. Based on estimation, a stochastic antidisturbance controller was proposed by combining the disturbance observer‐based control with the stochastic control, where the actuator saturation was dealt with by the polytopic bounding technique. Furthermore, the optimal control allocation method was introduced to distribute control commands into each actuator. Finally, the ship's position and heading are maintained at the desired values and all signals of the closed‐loop system are asymptotically mean‐square bounded. And comparative simulation under different conditions demonstrates the validity and the superiority of the proposed control scheme.
Indirect adaptive control of nonlinearly parameterized nonlinear dissipative systems
Authors: Ortega Romeo , Cisneros Rafael , Wang Lei , van der Schaft Arjan
Published: February 2022

In this note we address the problem of indirect adaptive (regulation or tracking) control of nonlinear, input affine dissipative systems. It is assumed that the supply rate, the storage and the internal dissipation functions may be expressed as nonlinearly parameterized regression equations where the mappings (depending on the unknown parameters) satisfy a monotonicity
condition—this encompasses a large class of physical systems, including passive systems. We propose to estimate the system parameters using the “power‐balance” equation, which is the differential version of the classical dissipation inequality, with a new estimator that ensures global, exponential, parameter convergence under the very weak assumption of interval excitation of the power‐balance equation regressor. To design the indirect adaptive controller we make the standard assumption of existence of an asymptotically stabilizing controller that depends—possibly nonlinearly—on the unknown plant parameters, and apply a certainty‐equivalent control law. The benefits of the proposed approach, with respect to other existing solutions, are illustrated with examples.
Regression‐based Bayesian estimation and structure learning for nonparanormal graphical models
Authors: Mulgrave Jami J. , Ghosal Subhashis
Published: February 2022

A nonparanormal graphical model is a semiparametric generalization of a Gaussian graphical model for continuous variables in which it is assumed that the variables follow a Gaussian graphical model only after some unknown smooth monotone transformations. We consider a Bayesian approach to inference in a nonparanormal graphical model in which we put priors on the unknown transformations through a random series based on B‐splines. We use a regression formulation to construct the likelihood through the Cholesky decomposition on the underlying precision matrix of the transformed variables and put shrinkage priors on the regression coefficients. We apply a plug‐in variational Bayesian algorithm for learning the sparse precision matrix and compare the performance to a posterior Gibbs sampling scheme in a simulation study. We finally apply the proposed methods to a microarray dataset. The proposed methods have better performance as the dimension increases, and in particular, the variational Bayesian approach has the potential to speed up the estimation in the Bayesian nonparanormal graphical model without the Gaussianity assumption while retaining the information to construct the graph.
Hierarchical Nanocellulose‐Based Gel Polymer Electrolytes for Stable Na Electrodeposition in Sodium Ion Batteries
Authors: Mittal Neeru , Tien Sean , Lizundia Erlantz , Niederberger Markus
Published: February 2022

Sodium ion batteries (NIBs) based on earth‐abundant materials offer efficient, safe, and environmentally sustainable solutions for a decarbonized society. However, to compete with mature energy storage technologies such as lithium ion batteries, further progress is needed, particularly regarding the energy density and operational lifetime. Considering these aspects as well as a circular economy perspective, the authors use biodegradable cellulose nanoparticles for the preparation of a gel polymer electrolyte that offers a high liquid electrolyte uptake of 2985%, an ionic conductivity of 2.32 mS cm−1, and a Na+ transference number of 0.637. A balanced ratio of mechanically rigid cellulose nanocrystals and flexible cellulose nanofibers results in a mesoporous hierarchical structure that ensures close contact with metallic Na. This architecture offers stable Na plating/stripping at current densities up to ±500 µA cm−2, outperforming conventional fossil‐based NIBs containing separator–liquid electrolytes. Paired with an environmentally sustainable and economically attractive Na2Fe2(SO4)3 cathode, the battery reaches an energy density of 240 Wh kg−1, delivering 69.7 mAh g−1 after 50 cycles at a rate of 1C. In comparison, Celgard in liquid electrolyte delivers only 0.6 mAh g−1 at C/4. Such gel polymer electrolytes may open up new opportunities for sustainable energy storage systems beyond lithium ion batteries.
circ_0089153 exacerbates breast cancer cells proliferation and metastasis via sponging miR‐2467‐3p/E2F6
Authors: Gao Shu‐Lan , Fan Ying , Liu Xiao‐Dan , Liu Wei , Zhao Man
Published: February 2022

The role of circ_0089153 in breast cancer (BCa) malignancy development was explored. circ_0089153 expression in BCa was analyzed by Gene Expression Omnibus database. Clinical tissues were obtained from 90 BCa patients. Cell counting kit‐8 assay, 5‐ethnyl‐2 deoxyuridine assay and colony formation experiment were applied for proliferation detection. Wound healing assay and Transwell experiment were used for migration and invasion detection. Dual luciferase reporter gene assay, RNA immunoprecipitation assay and RNA pull‐down assay were conducted. In vivo growth and metastasis of BCa cells were performed. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, Western blot and immunohistochemistry were applied for RNAs and proteins expression. The up‐modulated circ_0089153 indicated an unfavorable survival of BCa patients. circ_0089153 knockdown attenuated BCa cells proliferation, migration, invasion and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) (P < .01). circ_0089153 was miR‐2467‐3p sponge. Low miR‐2467‐3p expression indicated a worse survival of BCa patients. miR‐2467‐3p overexpression reduced BCa cells proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT (P < .05). circ_0089153 enhanced BCa cells proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT by sponging miR‐2467‐3p (P < .05). E2F6 was directly suppressed by miR‐2467‐3p. E2F6 high expression in BCa patients associated with worse survival. circ_0089153 knockdown suppressed in vivo BCa cells growth and lung metastasis (P < .01). circ_0089153 was an oncogene in breast cancer, which enhanced proliferation and metastasis through sponging miR‐2467‐3p/E2F6. circ_0089153 was suggested to be a potential target for BCa target treatment.
The Advent of Intercultural Approaches in Education
Authors: Akkari Abdeljalil , Radhouane Myriam
Published: February 2022

Nowadays, when one examines the history of the introduction of the compulsory school, our attention is drawn principally to the humanist dimension of providing schooling to everyone (but not including native and populations under colonisation), inherited from the philosophy of the Age of Enlightenment in favour of citizenship. However, we may too hastily overlook the nationalistic, Eurocentric and colonialist attitudes associated with the expansion of Western schooling.
Global Citizenship Education
Authors: Akkari Abdeljalil , Radhouane Myriam
Published: February 2022

The school has an indisputable role in the preparation of future generations for the exercise of citizenship. This responsibility goes well beyond the traditional national frameworks of civic instruction or education for citizenship. On the one hand, various threats which trouble our planet (ecological, economic, extremist, etc.), without precedent for some peoples and renewed for others, require that education should tackle the interdependencies and cohesions bringing all peoples and countries of the world together.
The Role of the Teacher in Promoting Intercultural Approaches
Authors: Akkari Abdeljalil , Radhouane Myriam
Published: February 2022

To complete this book with a chapter devoted to teachers is justified for several reasons. Firstly, the quality of a school is closely connected to the quality of its teachers. Their intellectual, moral and academic capacities are essential in our search for a more just and effective intercultural school.
Key Concepts for Intercultural Approaches
Authors: Akkari Abdeljalil , Radhouane Myriam
Published: February 2022

The use of intercultural approaches in education cannot be carried out without the educational actors’ appropriation of a certain number of fundamental concepts (Robles de Meléndez & Beck, 2009). In this chapter we will discuss many of the principal concepts such as culture, ethnocentrism, cultural relativism, equality and difference. This list is obviously not exhaustive, since several other concepts could have been included, such as otherness, diversity, dialogue or even universalism.
Intercultural Education in Switzerland
Authors: Akkari Abdeljalil , Radhouane Myriam
Published: February 2022

Before analysing the circumstances leading to the emergence of intercultural education in Switzerland, it would first be useful to explain how the country has dealt with migration. It bears, indeed, all the hallmarks of a paradox. In the first place, the country welcomes and has welcomed in the past a large number of immigrants coming for the most part from Southern Europe, but also from other regions of the world (D’Amato, 2008). This relatively ancient immigration contributed to the country’s economic prosperity. Secondly, the country’s attitude in relation to immigration has gone through periods of closing the borders and subsequently reopening them again. Thus, Switzerland has modified and adapted its policy on migration on several occasions, particularly concerning the management of the flow of migrating people (D’Amato, 2008).
Introduction: International Interdependencies and the Impact on Social Policies
Authors: Nullmeier Frank , González de Reufels Delia , Obinger Herbert
Published: February 2022

This chapter introduces the main concepts used in this collective volume and underlines the importance of international interdependencies for social policy development and highlights how, in recent years, social policy research has undergone far-reaching changes of which perhaps the most important concerns the scope of research, which is no longer exclusively focused on the nation state. Although the welfare state as such is a European “invention” and can be considered a child of the nation state and the Industrial Revolution, its development has also been driven by various inter- and transnational influences. These are at the centre of the contributions.
Introduction: International Organisations and Transnational Diffusion
Authors: Martens Kerstin , Niemann Dennis
Published: February 2022

International organisations (IOs) have long been vibrant actors that influence global governance and transnational diffusion processes of social policies. IOs use a variety of mechanisms to influence international spheres and national policy-making processes. A few are able to distribute financial resources and implement projects, which directly affect people’s lives, and they may also (re)direct national social policies. Many other IOs active in global social policy rather exert soft governance and act as regionally or globally active think tanks that develop and diffuse ideas and norms about social policy issues. Moreover, such IO-induced norms may also become global norms and affect not only member states but all states. This chapter provides a brief overview about current research on IOs in the domain of social policies.