bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross‐regional comparative study on digital finance and finance efficiency in China: The eastern and non‐eastern areas
Authors: Wang Qian , Yang Jinbao , Chiu Yung‐ho , Lin Tai‐Yu
Published: June 2022

Digital finance is expected to improve the financial development of economic backward regions through its inclusive nature. Therefore, this paper selects the financial data of 30 provinces in China from 2011 to 2017 to evaluate regional finance disparities with the inclusion of digital finance, using the meta‐frontier slack‐based measure dynamic DEA model. The results are as follows. (1) The overall financial efficiency, input efficiency, output efficiency, and TGR in the eastern region are better than those in the non‐eastern region. (2) With the inclusion of digital finance, the finance efficiency gaps in the eastern and non‐eastern regions have expanded.
Folded circulator with shorted Y‐junction for high power applications
Authors: Guo Song , Song Kaijun , Li Qian , Zhou Yidi
Published: June 2022

In this letter, a compact suspended‐stripline circulator with high power‐handling capability has been proposed. The presented double‐knotted circulator is constructed by folding the structure through an air‐filled micro‐coaxial line. Power‐handling capability is increased using a single‐sided ferrite disc and dielectric loading at the central junction. Moreover, another Y‐junction shorted to the ground is coupled on the other side of the substrate to improve the circuit impedance matching. The equivalent circuit model and high power characteristics of the suspended‐stripline circulator are proposed and analyzed. An X‐band double‐knotted circulator has been designed, simulated, fabricated, and measured. The measured results show a reasonable agreement with the simulated ones.
A highly linearized second harmonic injected GaN power amplifier
Authors: Abbasnezhad F. , Tayarani M. , Abrishamifar A. , Nayyeri V.
Published: June 2022

This article presents an active second harmonic injection technique for linearizing power amplifiers (PAs). In this method, a second harmonic signal with adjustable amplitude and phase, which is generated by a differential pair network, is injected into the input of a PA in a forward path. The tunable input and output matching circuits of the proposed second harmonic generator provide linearization capability in a wide frequency band. To validate the concept, the proposed second harmonic injection technique was implemented to linearize a GaN PA working around 1.5 GHz. It was shown that applying the proposed linearization method increases the output 1‐dB compression point from 33.5 dBm to 39.5 dBm (about 2 dB lower than saturation power) under the CW signal. Furthermore, the backed‐off efficiency at a higher adjacent channel power ratio was improved, and improvement of 16 dB at 200 MHz frequency bandwidth was achieved for an 8 MS/s 64‐quadratic‐amplitude modulation signal.
Propagation of sine beam in uniaxial crystal orthogonal to optical axis
Authors: Bayraktar Mert
Published: June 2022

This study analyzes propagation properties of sine beam in uniaxial crystal orthogonal to optical axis. Huygens‐Fresnel integral is solved to find the received field. Influence of source beam parameters, crystal refractive index settings, and propagation distance is analyzed in detail. Our results yield that intensity concentrates on minimum and maximum of x‐axis at middle and longer propagation distances. Although, sinusoidal waveform is conserved at close distance. We hope that these results will be used in optical tracking applications.
Consensus‐based recommendations on communication and education regarding primary care physical therapy for patients with systemic sclerosis
Authors: Liem Sophie I. E. , Vliet Vlieland Theodora P. M. , van de Ende Cornelia H. , Dittmar Sonja , Schriemer Marisca R. , Bodegom‐Vos Leti van , Peter Wilfred F. H. , Vries‐Bouwstra Jeska K. de
Published: June 2022

Objective

This study aimed to develop recommendations for communication and postgraduate education regarding primary care physical therapy for systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients.

Methods

A virtual Nominal Group Technique was used with tasks forces for communication (n = 18) and education (n = 21). Both included rheumatologists, physical therapists (PTs) in primary, secondary or tertiary care, rheumatology nurses, advanced nurse practictioners and patient representatives. Three online meetings were organised for each task force to discuss (1) current bottlenecks; (2) potential solutions; and (3) the resulting draft recommendations. After the final adjustments, participants rated their level of agreement with each recommendation on a scale from 0 (not at all agree) to 100 (totally agree), using an online questionnaire.

Results

19 and 34 recommendations were formulated for communication and education, respectively. For communication the main recommendations concerned the provision of an overview of primary care physical therapists with expertise in rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases to patients and rheumatologists, the inclusion of the indication by the rheumatologist in the referral to the physical therapist and low‐threshold communication with the rheumatologist in case of questions or concerns of the physical therapist. For postgraduate education three types of “on demand” educational offerings were recommended with varying levels of content and duration, to match the competencies and preferences of individual primary care physical therapists.

Conclusion

Using a systematic qualitative approach, two multi‐stakeholder task forces developed practical recommendations for primary care physical therapists' communication with hospital‐based care providers and postgraduate education regarding the treatment of SSc patients.
Sustainability Estimates of Coastline Fish Hatcheries in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Young Benjamin C. , Shaikhi Ali AL
Published: June 2022

This study examined Red Sea and Arabian Gulf coastline fish hatcheries of the leading aquaculture companies in Saudi Arabia for future sustainability strategies. Evaluations were performed on seven marine fish hatchery facilities in 2021. The factors estimated were production capacity, existing infrastructure, main cultured fish species, source of broodstock and seed stock, and range of water temperature and salinity. Six of seven coastline marine fish hatcheries lacked broodstock capacity. The water supply to all hatcheries is adequate from the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf coastline. In five hatcheries, discharge limitations will serve as constraints in their expansion and development. A live food production section was absent in five hatcheries. Most of the cultured species in hatcheries were Asian Seabass Lates calcarifer, Gilthead Bream Sparus aurata, Sabaki Tilapia Oreochromis spilurus, and Sobaity Seabream Sparidentex hasta. Only two hatcheries produced fry, with an average monthly fry production of 500,000–1,000,000 individuals. The source of seed stock in five hatcheries depended on imports or other hatcheries. Sustainability strategies should focus on increasing broodstock capacity, live food production, and new culture species.
Spatial Variability in the Fish Assemblage of a Large River–Reservoir Ecosystem
Authors: Smith Nathan G. , Buckmeier David L. , Fleming B. Paul , Grubh Archis R. , Homer Michael D. , Robertson Sarah M.
Published: June 2022

Physical and hydrologic connectivity among river–reservoir ecosystem (RRE) segments, including the river, river–reservoir interface (RRI), and reservoir, requires consideration of management at larger spatial scales. Multiple objectives (e.g., ecosystem function, sport fisheries, and maximizing fish diversity) seem well suited to this broad spatial scale; however, data limitations regarding the distribution of taxa within RREs currently hamper such an approach. We quantified the fish assemblage of the Trinity River–Lake Livingston ecosystem in Texas, USA, using a stratified approach to determine the contribution of individual segments to the overall fish assemblage. In general, fish assemblages varied along a continuum from the river to the reservoir; however, fish assemblages in several river backwaters did not follow this gradient, thus adding diversity to the overall RRE. Variability in fish assemblages among ecosystem segments was the result of both species composition and relative abundance. Species richness (N = 58 total) was highest in the river segment (N = 49) followed by the RRI (N = 46) and was much lower in the reservoir (N = 36). In contrast, average catch per standardized unit of sampling effort (all species combined) was greatest in the RRI, about 25% lower in the reservoir, and about 50% lower in the river. Across the ecosystem, 26 species (45%) were considered common, while 32 species (55%) were considered rare. Notably, species of conservation need were not always most abundant in river habitats, and species supporting recreational fisheries were not always most dominant in the reservoir. These findings suggest that the RRE can serve as an appropriate spatial scale for both conservation and recreational fishery management actions.
Effects of a web‐based relapse prevention program on abstinence: Secondary subgroup analysis of a pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Takano Ayumi , Miyamoto Yuki , Shinozaki Tomohiro , Matsumoto Toshihiko , Kawakami Norito
Published: June 2022

Aim

The effect of a web‐based relapse prevention program might vary depending on a specific population if the study participants included drug users with various characteristics. This secondary analysis explored subgroups among Japanese drug users that may benefit from a web‐based relapse prevention program.

Methods

Outpatients with drug use disorder (n = 48) were randomly assigned to an 8‐week, six‐session web‐based relapse prevention program (intervention group) or web‐based self‐monitoring only (control group). We tested the effects of the intervention on abstinence in different subgroups divided by a primary abused drug (methamphetamine vs other drugs), previous face‐to‐face relapse prevention (received vs not received), and outpatient treatment term (long‐term: ≥3 years vs short‐term: <3 years). Consecutive abstinence duration from the primary abused drug was compared in the subgroups, and the interaction between the intervention condition and the subgroup condition was assessed.

Results

In the subgroup with short‐term outpatient treatment, the intervention group maintained better abstinence than the control group. For those who used methamphetamine or those who had previously received a face‐to‐face relapse prevention program, the intervention group showed larger effect sizes than the results from all the participants. However, the interaction between the intervention condition and the subgroup condition was not significant for any subgroup.

Conclusions

This study suggests that patients with short‐term treatment may benefit from a web‐based relapse prevention program as an alternative treatment. We need to recruit and allocate patients considering their treatment term in a future definitive trial.
Synthesis, antimicrobial and anticancer activities of Tetronic 1107 Schiff bases
Authors: Alasmary Fatmah Ali , Kenawy El‐Refaie , El‐Deeb Nehal M. , Kamoun Elbadawy A. , Khattab Samar A. , Karami Abdulnasser Mahmoud , Cinelli Patrizia , Azaam Mohamed M.
Published: June 2022

As a result of the serious issues connected to the bacterial infections, there is an imperious need to improve strong and ecofriendly antimicrobial polymers to overcome the limitations of conventional antimicrobial agents. In this trend, poloxamines (Tetronics) which are X‐shaped poly(ethylene oxide)–poly(propylene oxide) diblocks linked to a focal ethylenediamine group; were successfully modified to produce Tetronic Schiff base for enhancing the biological activities of Tetronic 1107. Modification of tetronic 1107 (T1107) was proceeded throughout chloroacetylation of T1107 followed by amination using p‐phenylenediamine then the latter was treated with different aldehydes to yield Tetronic Schiff bases. Characterization of Tetronic Schiff bases was carried out by 1H‐NMR, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, elemental analysis and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) analyses. The antimicrobial activities of four tested compounds coded (EK1, EK2, EK3, and EK4) were quantified using Microtiter‐assay methods. The obtained data revealed potential antimicrobial activities for tested compounds against all tested microbes with priority against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Sample coded EK4 exhibited the most effective treatment against P. aeruginosa, Candida albicans, S. aureus and E. Coli with minimal inhibitory concentration values of 6, 16, 12.5, and 1.5 μM, respectively. Furthermore, the safety results confirmed that EK4 and EK1 were the safest treatment with IC50 values of 76.01 and 62.67 μM, respectively. In addition, all tested compounds showed significant anticancer effects against MDA‐MB‐231cell line, while EK3 was effective treatment against A549 cell line with IC50 values of 39.63 μM. Meanwhile, both EK2 and EK4 showed the highest selectivity index (SI) values against MDA‐MB‐231 cell line with values 2.5 and 3.07, respectively. Interestingly, EK4 showed the maximum SI values on A549 and Hep‐G2 cell lines with values 1.62 and 1.52, respectively.
Ileus in patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors: A retrospective, pharmacovigilance study using Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System database
Authors: Gao Siyuan , He Zhichao , Zhu Jianhong , Liang Dan , Zhao Wenxia , Yang Shan , Jiang Wei , Qiu Kaifeng , Yu Xiaoxia , Wu Junyan
Published: June 2022

Objective

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have been widely used in cancer treatment; however, some case reports suggested that ICIs treatment might result in ileus. This study aims to comprehensively reveal the relationship between ileus and ICIs treatment in real‐world cases from Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS).

Methods

Reports from January 1, 2011 to December 31, 2020 were extracted from the FAERS. ICIs‐related adverse events in patients were defined as related to use of anti‐programmed cell death protein 1 antibodies (PD‐1, nivolumab and pembrolizumab), anti‐programmed cell death‐ligand 1 inhibitors (PD‐L1, atezolizumab, durvalumab, avelumab, and cemiplimab), and anti‐cytotoxic T‐lymphocyte‐associated protein 4 (CTLA‐4, ipilimumab and tremelimumab). ICIs‐related ileus cases were identified to characterize their clinical features. Reporting odds ratios (ROR) and information component (IC) were used to assess the relationship between ICIs and ileus.

Results

Among the 105 001 cases related to ICIs, 245 were reported with ICI‐related ileus. The affected patients were mainly elderly (median age, 64.5 years) and male (58%, n = 143). The median onset for all cases was 36 (range 0–880) days, and no statistical difference was observed between monotherapy and combination therapy (PD‐1 or PD‐L1 plus CTLA‐4) (p = 0.21). Most patients required drug withdrawal treatment (n = 113, 74%) and can achieve a recovered‐resolved state (n = 72, 46%). All ICIs were significantly associated with ileus (ROR = 4.27, 95%Cl: 3.75–4.85; IC = 2.04, 95%Cl: 1.79–2.31). Ileus events were most commonly reported in PD‐1 treatment (n = 164, ROR = 3.83, 95%Cl: 3.28–4.48; IC = 1.90, 95%Cl: 1.62–2.21).

Conclusion

This pharmacovigilance database analysis suggested that ICIs are related to ileus. However, combination therapy may not speed up the onset of ileus.
Temperature dependence of deformation behavior in amorphous poly(butylene terephthalate)/poly(carbonate) blends
Authors: Zhang Wenyang , Shi Jiangao , Jiang Shichun
Published: June 2022

Mechanical properties of amorphous poly(butylene terephthalate)/poly(carbonate) (PBT/PC) blends were studied at various temperatures. Two distinct regions associated with the mechanical response at various temperatures were identified. Also the temperature‐related microstructural evolution of amorphous PBT/PC blends was explored at 30°C and 50°C by synchrotron radiation WAXS. The mesophase of PBT could be obtained from the melt by rapid quenching. The presence of PC suppresses the mesophase formation during rapid quenching and also suppresses PBT crystallization during deformation. Structure models were proposed to describe the deformation process of amorphous PBT/PC blends at 30°C and 50°C.
Poor tolerability of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator modulator therapy in lung transplant recipients
Authors: Doligalski Christina Teeter , McKinzie Cameron J. , Yang Anita , Lobo L. Jason , Coakley Raymond
Published: June 2022

Elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor (ELX/TEZ/IVA) is a highly effective therapy for patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) with potential benefits in lung transplant recipients (LTRs) for extrapulmonary CF manifestations; however, tolerability and efficacy in this population are largely unknown. We report our experience with ELX/TEZ/IVA in LTRs for extrapulmonary complications of CF including tolerability, drug–drug interactions, and therapeutic benefit. All LTRs at a single center initiated on ELX/TEZ/IVA were reviewed. Adverse events and patient‐reported outcomes attributed to ELX/TEZ/IVA were documented. Pulmonary function, tacrolimus requirements in mg/kg/dl, body mass index (BMI), and reason for initiation were assessed at the initiation of ELX/TEZ/IVA, and at 12 months post‐initiation or at the time of discontinuation for those in whom therapy was discontinued. Thirteen LTRs were initiated on ELX/TEZ/IVA at a mean of 115 ± 92 months post‐transplant. All were initiated on ELX/TEZ/IVA for sinus or sinus and gastrointestinal CF manifestations. Five (38.4%) patients discontinued therapy due to declining pulmonary function (2/5, 40%), mood disturbances (2/5, 40%), or lack of benefit (1/5, 20%). Of the eight patients who remain on ELX/TEZ/IVA, four reported adverse effects and three LTRs temporarily held therapy. Six (46.2%) LTRs reported improvement in sinus symptoms, while four (30.7%) reported improved gastrointestinal symptoms. Weight declined in the cohort overall. Tacrolimus dose requirements decreased following initiation of ELX/TEZ/IVA therapy, with a 50% decline in dose requirements observed. In our experience, ELX/TEZ/IVA in LTRs is poorly tolerated with modest perceived extrapulmonary benefit and a significant effect on tacrolimus dose requirements. More data are needed to determine the benefits of ELX/TEZ/IVA therapy in LTRs.
Knowledge about foot‐specific foot falls risk factors and exercise among physiotherapists in the UK and Portugal: A cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Conde Monserrat , Hendry Gordon J. , Woodburn Jim , Skelton Dawn A.
Published: June 2022

Background and purpose

Foot‐related falls risk factors and specific foot and ankle exercise interventions are within the scope of Physiotherapy, yet little is known about United Kingdom (UK) and Portugal‐based (PT) physiotherapists' self‐perceived knowledge, confidence and practice of such interventions, or perceptions of patients' falls prevention knowledge. The purpose of this study was to assess levels of self‐reported knowledge, confidence, and practices surrounding foot‐specific falls risk and exercise for fall prevention in physiotherapists working in the UK and in Portugal. It also aimed to explore physiotherapists' views about their participants' falls prevention knowledge.

Methods

A self‐report online survey was developed, and pilot tested in both nations. Registered Physiotherapists were invited to participate through their professional associations, social media and snowballing. Mann‐Whitney tests were used to compare mean ranks of ordinal variables between nations and Chi‐square test to assess the independency between pairs of variables. Spearman's correlation coefficient (rs) was used to measure the association between pairs of variables (p < 0.05).

Results

682 physiotherapists participated in the survey [UK n = 229 (mean (SD) age = 43(10) years, 86.9% female]; PT n = 453 (mean (SD) age = 33(9) years, 78.3% female]. Among physiotherapists with a caseload of ≥70% older adults, more PT‐based physiotherapists held postgraduate qualifications (p = 0.01). Most physiotherapists correctly identified generic and foot‐specific risk factors (≥70% of participants for each item). More UK‐based physiotherapists reported always prescribing ankle and foot exercises (42.6% vs. 33%, p =< 0.001) and displayed higher levels of self‐reported confidence surrounding exercise‐based interventions.

Discussion

Our sample of UK and Portugal‐based physiotherapists are aware of the contribution of foot‐specific risk factors and exercise to falls prevention, with the former group being more confident in exercise‐based interventions. Both groups of physiotherapists perceived that their older patients had little knowledge about these topics, with UK older adults having slightly better knowledge on generic falls risk factors at first contact. Future studies and strategies for knowledge translation and education in foot health and foot function screening and management for physiotherapists, within a falls prevention scope, may be informed by this study.
Wide Waveband Light Detection and Storage Device for Visual Memory
Authors: Xiao Cancheng , Xu Bo , Si Jiawei , Di Ziye , Zhao Lei , Liu Rui , Lv Qipu , Wang Liancheng , Zhang Lei
Published: June 2022

Artificial visual memory systems are attracting significant research attention to emulate the basic functions of the human visual system. However, currently, light detection via visual memory systems mainly focuses on ultraviolet light and single wavelength. Herein, a composite memristor (silicon p‐i‐n photodetector in series with p‐NiO/n‐ZnO heterostructure memristor) is designed and its detection–storage function is realized. The photodetector offers a wide range of detection from 300 to 1000 nm. Similar “learning‐experience” behaviors by light stimulation have been exhibited in the composite memristor. Moreover, different illumination wavelengths (350, 500, 650, and 900 nm) can provide different memory currents (ΔW = 2.4, 4.1, 6.6, and 4.9%, respectively), which benefits the detection–storage of different light information for a wide‐range visual memory simulation similar to the human visual system. This composite memristor opens up new avenue for constituting wider waveband versatile electronic eyes even beyond the visible light region.
Fabrication Techniques of Superhydrophobic Coatings: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Laad Meena , Ghule Babaji
Published: June 2022

Superhydrophobic coatings are growing in demand in textile, wearable electronics, and healthcare devices due to their nonwetting, antibacterial, anti‐icing, and self‐cleaning properties. With potential applications of superhydrophobic surfaces in consumer electronic devices, there is a huge demand to develop new materials and fabrication techniques that can help make high‐performance, scalable electronic devices directly onto the conductive and flexible substrates for a wide range of applications. Superhydrophobic materials which are highly stretchable and exhibit good electrical conductivity find applications in wearable electronics sensors, energy storage devices, anticorrosion circuits, etc. Superhydrophobicity can be achieved by creating micro/nanostructures using materials with low surface energy. In general, most of the superhydrophobic coatings are developed by making the materials’ surfaces rough by multistep procedures. However, due to the lack of excellent natural templates as well as simple and cost‐effective manufacturing procedures, a coating approach that is simple, cost‐effective, scalable, and environmentally friendly is in high demand. Finding appropriate materials, simple fabrication techniques, and cost‐effective, durable, and eco‐friendly superhydrophobic coatings for real‐life applications is still challenging. This article reviews the materials used, fabrication techniques, the theoretical background of hydrophobicity in surfaces, and the limitations of existing methods. It also reviews the superhydrophobic responses of different materials.
Precapillary pulmonary arterial hypertension in a patient with Proteus syndrome
Authors: Mathavan Akash , Mathavan Akshay , Vahdatpour Cyrus , Eagan Christina , Kalra Saminder Singh , Ataya Ali
Published: June 2022

Proteus syndrome is a rare progressive multisystem disorder characterized by asymmetric, disproportionate overgrowth of bone, skin, and other tissue types. Molecular pathogenesis has been identified as somatic activating mutations of the AKT1 gene. The presentation of Proteus syndrome is exceptionally variable. Respiratory complications include emphysematous lung disease and predisposition to pulmonary emboli, the latter of which is a significant source of mortality. Pulmonary hypertension due to longstanding hypoxic lung disease as well as chronic thromboembolic events has been observed in this population. In contrast, precapillary pulmonary arterial hypertension in the absence of chronic pulmonary emboli and parenchymal lung disease has not been described in the literature on patients with Proteus syndrome. We report such a case in a young patient with Proteus syndrome, reviewing subsequent management and emphasizing the need for a detailed investigation of dyspnea.
A stochastic and non‐linear representation of model uncertainty in a convective‐scale ensemble prediction system
Authors: Xu Zhizhen , Chen Jing , Mu Mu , Tao Lingjiang , Dai Guokun , Wang Jingzhuo , Ma Yanan
Published: June 2022

Accurately addressing model uncertainties with a consideration of the enhanced effect of non‐linearities in a high‐resolution convective‐scale system is a crucial issue for performing convection‐allowing ensemble prediction systems (CAEPSs). In this study, a conditional non‐linear–stochastic perturbation method is developed to simultaneously consider both a stochastic and a non‐linear representation of model uncertainties associated with physics parameterization in the Global and Regional Assimilation and Prediction Enhanced System (GRAPES)‐CAEPS with a horizontal resolution of 3 km. The non‐linear forcing singular vector (NFSV) for a non‐linear representation of model uncertainties and the Stochastically Perturbed Parameterization Tendencies (SPPT) scheme for a stochastic representation of model uncertainties, are applied. Two experiments were carried out over South China for a month (May 1–30, 2020), one with a SPPT scheme and the other with a non‐linear–stochastic perturbation using a combination of SPPT and NFSV schemes. The combination of SPPT and NFSV schemes is compared with the SPPT scheme alone to investigate whether the conditional non‐linear–stochastic perturbation method that combines non‐linear and stochastic schemes can represent model uncertainty better than the traditional stochastic SPPT approach. The results show that combining the NFSV and SPPT schemes improves the overall probabilistic skill and has an advantage over the SPPT scheme, which may imply that adding additional state‐independent non‐linear noise contributes to a more comprehensive characterization of model error for representing model uncertainties in CAEPSs. This discovery sheds light on the design and development of model perturbation strategies for convective‐scale ensembles in the future.
THEY ALWAYS PRETEND TO HAVE THE WHOLE TRUTH—How the epistemization of politics endangers democracy, and what this may have to do with scientism in school science
Authors: Zeyer Albert
Published: June 2022

The core of this essay is a review of Alexander Bogner's book “The Epistemization of Politics” (2021). It fits into the ongoing discussion about the role of scientism in science education. Bogner makes the provocative case that science denialism inadvertently points to contemporary scientism in the public sphere, and he observes that many science deniers mobilize (counter)experts and (counter)expertise because better knowledge seems to be “the harder currency” than softer values and interests, emotions, fears, or epistemological dissent. In this way, Bogner explains, the struggle for political hegemony has turned into a struggle for better knowledge. He calls this the epistemization of politics—a new form of political scientism. In this essay, I describe why reading this book was so valuable to me as a teaching professional and why I decided to share some important points with other science educators and scholars. I pose four important questions that I asked myself after reading Bogner's book—about scientism in school science paving the way for scientism in policy, about Science Studies positions in science education as a possible backdoor to science denial, about the role of the naturalistic fallacy in science education (do we always distinguish between facts and values?), and about how scientism in school science threatens the agency of our students. I discuss these points in light of recent publications in the science education literature. The essay is concluded with a number of original quotes from the last chapter of Bogner's book, which revisits his main points and can serve as a stimulus for further reflection.
Markov neighborhood regression for statistical inference of high‐dimensional generalized linear models
Authors: Sun Lizhe , Liang Faming
Published: June 2022

High‐dimensional inference is one of fundamental problems in modern biomedical studies. However, the existing methods do not perform satisfactorily. Based on the Markov property of graphical models and the likelihood ratio test, this article provides a simple justification for the Markov neighborhood regression method such that it can be applied to statistical inference for high‐dimensional generalized linear models with mixed features. The Markov neighborhood regression method is highly attractive in that it breaks the high‐dimensional inference problems into a series of low‐dimensional inference problems. The proposed method is applied to the cancer cell line encyclopedia data for identification of the genes and mutations that are sensitive to the response of anti‐cancer drugs. The numerical results favor the Markov neighborhood regression method to the existing ones.
Psychometric properties of a brief version of the COVID‐19 Stress Scales (CSS‐B) in young adult undergraduates
Authors: Thibault Tabatha , Thompson Kara , Keough Matthew , Krank Marvin , Conrod Patricia , Moore Mackenzie , Stewart Sherry H.
Published: June 2022

We extracted items to create a brief version of the COVID‐19 Stress Scale (i.e., CSS‐B) and examined its psychometric properties in young adults. A sample of 1318 first‐ and second‐year undergraduates from five Canadian universities (mean [SD] age = 19.27 [1.35] years; 77.6% women) completed an online cross‐sectional survey that included the CSS‐B as well as validated measures of anxiety and depression. The 18‐item CSS‐B fit well on both a 5‐factor and a hierarchical model indicating that the five CSS‐B dimensions may be factors of the same over‐arching construct. The CSS‐B factor structure displayed lower‐order and higher‐order configural and metric invariance across sites but not scalar invariance indicating that the intercepts/means were not consistent across sites. The CSS dimensions were positively related to measures of general anxiety and depression but not so strongly as to indicate that they are measuring the same construct. The CSS‐B scale is a valid measure of COVID‐19 stress among young adults. It is recommended that this shorter version of the scale be considered for use in longer surveys to avoid participant fatigue.
Exploiting the Iron Difluoride Electrochemistry by Constructing Hierarchical Electron Pathways and Cathode Electrolyte Interface
Authors: Liu Shuangxu , Chen Jingzhao , Su Yong , Zheng Chuanzuo , Zhu Dingding , Zhang Xuedong , Zhou Xiang , Ouyang Ren , Huang Quanwei , He Yunfei , Tang Liang , Li Shuai , Qiu Yuan , Wang Gang , Tang Yongfu , Zhang Liqiang , Huang Qiao , Huang Jianyu
Published: June 2022

Conversion‐type cathodes such as metal fluorides, especially FeF2 and FeF3, are potential candidates to replace intercalation cathodes for the next generation of lithium ion batteries. However, the application of iron fluorides is impeded by their poor electronic conductivity, iron/fluorine dissolution, and unstable cathode electrolyte interfaces (CEIs). A facile route to fabricate a mechanical strong electrode with hierarchical electron pathways for FeF2 nanoparticles is reported here. The FeF2/Li cell demonstrates remarkable cycle performances with a capacity of 300 mAh g−1 after a record long 4500 cycles at 1C. Meanwhile, a record stable high area capacity of over 6 mAh cm−2 is achieved. Furthermore, ultra‐high rate capabilities at 20C and 6C for electrodes with low and high mass loading, respectively, are attained. Advanced electron microscopy reveals the formation of stable CEIs. The results demonstrate that the construction of viable electronic connections and favorable CEIs are the key to boost the electrochemical performances of FeF2 cathode.
High‐Precision and High‐Flux Separation by Rationally Designing the Nanochannels and Surface Nanostructure of Polyamide Nanofiltration Membranes
Authors: Zheng Han , Mou Zihao , Lim Yu Jie , Srikanth Narasimalu , Zhang Wang , Guo Sheng , Wang Rong , Zhou Kun
Published: June 2022

High‐precision separation with increased water permeability is critical for efficient membrane‐based water treatment processes. To achieve high selectivity toward different targeted species while allowing rapid water transportation, the structure of the membrane polyamide selective layer requires delicate regulation. Herein, an effective approach to systematically expand the pore size of polyamide layers by incorporating ammonium ion‐modified carbon dots (CDs) into the polyamide network is developed. The ammonium ions with different alkyl chain lengths attached to the CDs create nanochannels of different sizes in the network to lower the energy barrier for water transportation while maintaining high selectivity to targeted species. When the alkyl chain length of the ammonium ions reaches eight carbon atoms (i.e., C8 ions), the amphiphilic C8‐CDs induce the formation of the ridged nanostructure on the membrane surface and hence the increased membrane filtration area. The resultant thin‐film nanocomposite (TFN) membrane, denoted as the TFN‐C8‐CDs membrane, demonstrates a higher Na2SO4 rejection of 98.9% and NaCl/Na2SO4 selectivity of 83.1 than the pristine polyamide membrane, together with a tripled pure water permeability of 29.0 L m−2 h−1 bar−1. Herein, a viable approach for ingeniously designing the nanochannels and surface nanostructure of polyamide membranes for more efficient filtration processes is provided.
Regulated Li2S Deposition toward Rapid Kinetics Li‐S Batteries by a Separator Modified by CeO2‐Decorated Porous Carbon Nanostructure
Authors: Peng Lin , Zhang Mingkun , Zheng Liyuan , Yuan Qichong , Yu Zhanjiang , Shen Junhao , Chang Yu , Wang Yi , Li Aiju
Published: June 2022

Although the high‐energy‐density lithium sulfur (Li‐S) battery has been considered one of the most promising next‐generation energy storage technology, the practical applications have been plagued by the sluggish reaction kinetics and the shuttle effect of lithium polysulfides intermediates. Here, to address the above issues, the authors report a novel separator modified by CeO2‐decorated porous carbon nanostructure (CeO2/KB/PP). Benefiting from the strong polar surface and large specific surface area, (CeO2‐doped Ketjen Black) delivers efficient chemical adsorption toward lithium polysulfides. Moreover, rich oxygen vacancies of CeO2 provide abundant active sites to expedite lithium polysulfides conversion and regulate deposition and nucleation of Li2S. Taking advantage of these merits, the battery with the CeO2/KB/PP separator exhibits remarkable electrochemical performance, including low‐capacity decay of only 0.06% per cycle over 1000 cycles at 2 C and superior rate capability of 627 mAh g‐1 at 3 C. Even with a high sulfur loading of 6.6 mg cm‐2, the battery can achieve a high areal capacity of 3.6 mAh cm‐2 after 100 cycles. This work provides a new application of rare‐earth‐based materials to facilitate Li‐S batteries.
A Battery Method to Enhance the Degradation of Iron Stent and Regulating the Effect on Living Cells
Authors: Yu Changchun , Liu Xiao , Zhang Jiahao , Chao Yunfeng , Jia Xiaoteng , Wang Caiyun , Wallace Gordon G.
Published: June 2022

Iron is a promising material for cardiovascular stent applications, however, the low biodegradation rate presents a challenge. Here, a dynamic method to improve the degradation rate of iron and simultaneously deliver electrical energy that could potentially inhibit cell proliferation on the device is reported. It is realized by pairing iron with a biocompatible hydrogel cathode in a cell culture media‐based electrolyte forming an iron‐air battery. This system does not show cytotoxicity to human adipose‐stem cells over a period of 21 days but inhibits cell proliferation. The combination of enhanced iron degradation and inhibited cell proliferation by this dynamic method suggests it might be an approach for restenosis inhibition of biodegradable stents.
High Throughput In–Situ Temperature Sensor Array with High Sensitivity and Excellent Linearity for Wireless Body Temperature Monitoring
Authors: Chen Lei , Yao Xingye , Liu Xingchi , Luo Zewei , Ye Changqing , Huang Chengfeng , Wang Chaolun , Cai Chunhua , Lyu Liangjian , Wu Xing , Bi Hengchang
Published: June 2022

High sensitivity, excellent linearity, and wireless monitoring are strongly desired for the practical application of flexible temperature sensors in real‐time wearable health care. Especially the multichannel body temperature monitoring system has high requirements on the performance of the sensor because it needs to monitor a large amount of data at the same time. Herein, a flexible temperature sensor based on a porous graphene/polydimethylsiloxane sensing layer is developed. The prepared sensor exhibits high sensitivity of 5.203% °C−1 for temperature sensing between 30 and 70 °C, and excellent linearity (R2 = 0.996) in the temperature range from 30 to 70 °C. Based on its excellent performance, the proposed high‐performance temperature sensors can be applied in practical applications such as body temperature monitoring and human breath monitoring under different states including slow breath, normal breath, and fast breath. Moreover, a high‐throughput wireless body temperature monitoring system including wireless sensor modules, a cloud server, and a portable electronic device is constructed, which can achieve a remote and multichannel body temperature monitoring efficiently.
Idiopathic focal eosinophilic enteritis associated with ileocaecal and ileal obstruction in a 10‐year‐old warmblood gelding
Authors: Piketh Graeme , Henning Alischa , Smit Yolandi
Published: June 2022

A 10‐year‐old, 600‐kg, warmblood gelding was referred due to persistent colic, non‐responsive to medical treatment. Diagnostic evaluation revealed abdominal distention, tachycardia and distended small intestines. Preoperative blood testing revealed an increased packed cell volume and normal total white cell count, whereas an abdominocentesis revealed raised peritoneal fluid lactate. Exploratory laparotomy was performed and revealed a circumferential band of thickened tissue and hyperaemia in the distal jejunum, as well as marked wall thickening of the distal ileum and ileocaecal valve, leading to complete luminal obstruction. Due to financial constraints and complications associated with jejuno‐caecostomy, the owner requested the horse to be humanely euthanased. Postmortem examination findings revealed a circumferential constriction of the distal ileum and ileocaecal valve. Histopathology of the affected segments was characterised by a large population of eosinophils within the mucosa, submucosa and muscularis layers in conjunction with severe submucosal oedema. A diagnosis of idiopathic focal eosinophilic enteritis was made.
Reversible tetraplegia in a dog caused by a transoral penetrating stick injury
Authors: Buhmann Gesine , Steinberg Tanja , Fischer Andrea , Schöbel Jessica , Jurina Konrad
Published: June 2022

A 3‐year‐old, male German shepherd dog was referred because of acute tetraplegia following endoscopic removal of stick fragments from the oral cavity. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an extradural T2W‐ and T1W‐hypointense linear structure within the vertebral canal at the level from the C1 to mid‐C2 cervical vertebral body, causing pronounced dorsolateral spinal cord compression and spinal cord oedema extending to the caudal end of the C2 vertebra. A dorsal laminectomy was performed at the level of the C1–C2 vertebra. Three wooden fragments with lengths of up to 4 cm, which were located adjacent to the spinal cord, were removed from the vertebral canal. The dog was still tetraplegic after surgery. Postoperative care consisted of analgesics, antibiotics, bladder management, intensive neurorehabilitation and physical therapy. Recovery of ambulation was regained 3 weeks after surgery.
Total knee arthroplasty improves sports activity and the patient-reported functional outcome at mid-term follow-up
Authors: Meena Amit , Hoser Christian , Abermann Elisabeth , Hepperger Caroline , Raj Akshya , Fink Christian
Published: June 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to assess (1) sports participation and preference for the type of sports activity after TKA, (2) mid-term functional outcome and activity level, (3) correlation of different age groups with activity level and functional outcomes, and (4) mid-term survivorship of the prosthesis.

Methods

A retrospective review of prospectively collected data was performed. 182 patients were included who underwent primary TKA between January 2010 and December 2016. Inclusion criteria were symptomatic knee osteoarthritis, age 50–90 years, and with a minimum of 5-year follow-up after TKA. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis and revision TKA were excluded. Sports participation and sports preference, Oxford Knee Score (OKS), Tegner Activity Level, and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain were recorded pre- and postoperatively at 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, and 5 years. The patient cohort was subdivided according to age groups; activity levels, patient-reported outcomes, and improvement in knee pain were correlated with these age groups. Kaplan–Meier curves were used to investigate survivorship at a minimum of 5 years.

Results

The mean age of the cohort was 75.6 ± 7.2 years (range 52–89). Significant improvement was noted in sports participation (p < 0.003). After TKA, there was no change in the preference for sports and none of the patients had to discontinue their sporting activity. OKS improved significantly at all follow-up time points compared to the preoperative score (p < .0001). Patients' sports and physical activity improved significantly at 1 year compared to the preoperative activity level (p < 0.001). Although the Tegner activity level improved over time, this improvement was not significant (NS), while it was significantly higher in males than in females (p < 0.004). Significant improvement was found in the VAS for pain at all follow-up time points compared to the preoperative score (p < .0001). Survivorship was found to be 100% at a 5-year follow-up.

Conclusion

After TKA, patients can be able to return to sporting activity or even perform better than before surgery. Maximum improvement was noted in the first post-operative year. The male and younger groups perform better than the female and older groups. Sports and physical activity do not negatively impact survivorship of the knee prosthesis at mid-term follow-up and all patients are encouraged to take up sports participation after their TKA.

Level of evidence

Level 3.
Schoolyard Biodiversity Determines Short-Term Recovery of Disturbed Skin Microbiota in Children
Authors: Mills Jacob G. , Selway Caitlin A. , Thomas Torsten , Weyrich Laura S. , Lowe Andrew J.
Published: June 2022

Creating biodiverse urban habitat has been proposed, with growing empirical support, as an intervention for increasing human microbial diversity and reducing associated diseases. However, ecological understanding of urban biodiversity interventions on human skin microbiota remains limited. Here, we experimentally test the hypotheses that disturbed skin microbiota recover better in outdoor schoolyard environments and that greater biodiversity provides a greater response. Repeating the experiment three times, we disturbed skin microbiota of fifty-seven healthy 10-to-11-year-old students with a skin swab (i.e., cleaning), then exposed them to one school environment—either a ‘classroom’ (n = 20), ‘sports field’ (n = 14), or biodiverse ‘forest’ (n = 23)—for 45 min. Another skin swab followed the exposure to compare ‘before’ and ‘after’ microbial communities. After 45 min, the disturbance immediately followed by outdoor exposure, especially the ‘forest’, had an enriching and diversifying effect on skin microbiota, while ‘classroom’ exposure homogenised inter-personal variability. Each effect compounded over consecutive days indicating longer-term exposure outcomes. The experimental disturbance also reduced the core skin microbiota, and only outdoor environments were able to replenish lost species richness to core membership (n species > 50% prevalent). Overall, we find that environmental setting, especially including biodiversity, is important in human microbiota recovery periods and that the outdoors provide resilience to skin communities. This work also has implications for the inclusion of short periods of outside or forest exposure in school scheduling. Future investigations of the health impacts of permanent urban biodiversity interventions are needed.
Effect of theobromine on dissolution of uric acid kidney stones
Authors: Julià Francesca , Costa-Bauza Antonia , Berga Francisco , Grases Felix
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Uric acid renal lithiasis has a high prevalence and a high rate of recurrence. Removal of uric acid stones can be achieved by several surgical techniques (extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, endoscopy, laparoscopy, open surgery). These stones can also be eliminated by dissolution within the kidneys, because the solubility of uric acid is much greater when the pH is above 6. At present, N-acetylcysteine with a urinary basifying agent is the only treatment proposed to increase the dissolution of uric acid stones. In this paper, we compare the effect of theobromine and N-acetylcysteine on the in vitro dissolution of uric acid calculi in artificial urine at pH 6.5.

Methods

The dissolution of uric acid renal calculi was performed in a temperature-controlled (37 °C) chamber. A peristaltic pump was used to pass 750 mL of synthetic urine (pH 6.5) through a capsule every 24 h. Stone dissolution was evaluated by measuring the change in weight before and after each experiment.

Results

N-acetylcysteine increased the dissolution of uric acid calculi, but the effect was not statistically significant. Theobromine significantly increased the dissolution of uric acid calculi. Both substances together had the same effect as theobromine alone. The addition of theobromine to a basifying therapy that uses citrate and/or bicarbonate is a potential new strategy for the oral chemolysis of uric acid stones.

Conclusion

Theobromine may prevent the formation of new stones and increase the dissolution of existing stones.
Scaling limits for planar aggregation with subcritical fluctuations
Authors: Norris James , Silvestri Vittoria , Turner Amanda
Published: June 2022

We study scaling limits of a family of planar random growth processes in which clusters grow by the successive aggregation of small particles. In these models, clusters are encoded as a composition of conformal maps and the location of each successive particle is distributed according to the density of harmonic measure on the cluster boundary, raised to some power. We show that, when this power lies within a particular range, the macroscopic shape of the cluster converges to a disk, but that as the power approaches the edge of this range the fluctuations approach a critical point, which is a limit of stability. The methodology developed in this paper provides a blueprint for analysing more general random growth models, such as the Hastings-Levitov family.