bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DHA status influences effects of B-vitamin supplementation on cognitive ageing: a post-hoc analysis of the B-proof trial
Authors: van Soest Annick P. M. , van de Rest Ondine , Witkamp Renger F. , Cederholm Tommy , de Groot Lisette C. P. G. M.
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Trials aiming to lower homocysteine by B-vitamin supplementation have reported mixed results on slowing cognitive decline. We investigated if efficacy of B-vitamin supplementation is affected by baseline plasma omega-3 fatty acid levels.

Methods

This post-hoc analysis of the B-proof trial included 191 adults aged 65 years or older with baseline plasma total homocysteine ≥ 12 μmol/L, randomly assigned to 400 µg folic acid and 500 µg vitamin B12 or placebo daily for 2 years. Global and domain-specific cognitive functioning were assessed at baseline and after 2 years. The effect of B-vitamin supplementation was analyzed according to tertiles of baseline plasma omega-3 fatty acids concentrations combined, and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) individually using multiple linear regression analyses.

Results

The mean ± SD age of the participants was 71.6 ± 5.9 years and median [IQR] Mini-Mental State Examination was 29 [28–30]. The treatment effect of B-vitamins on global cognition was larger in participants in the high compared to the middle DHA tertile (difference in z-score, mean ± SE 0.22 ± 0.10, p = 0.03). There was no significant interaction between B-vitamin supplementation and combined omega-3 fatty acid (p = 0.49) and EPA (p = 0.99) tertiles. Similarly, the efficacy of B-vitamin treatment on domain-specific cognitive functioning did not link to omega-3 fatty acid, DHA, or EPA plasma levels.

Conclusion

This post-hoc analysis indicated that efficacy of B-vitamin supplementation in slowing cognitive decline relates to DHA status, with individuals with higher plasma DHA levels benefitting more from vitamin B12 and folic acid use. The results support earlier observations that positive effects of B-vitamins in cognitive ageing may be subgroup-specific.

Trial registration: Registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT00696514) on June 12, 2008.
Presurgical video-EEG monitoring with foramen ovale and epidural peg electrodes: a 25-year perspective
Authors: Miron Gadi , Dehnicke Christoph , Meencke Heinz-Joachim , Onken Julia , Holtkamp Martin
Published: June 2022

Background

Epilepsy surgery cases are becoming more complex and increasingly require invasive video-EEG monitoring (VEM) with intracranial subdural or intracerebral electrodes, exposing patients to substantial risks. We assessed the utility and safety of using foramen ovale (FO) and epidural peg electrodes (FOP) as a next step diagnostic approach following scalp VEM.

Methods

We analyzed clinical, electrophysiological, and imaging characteristics of 180 consecutive patients that underwent FOP VEM between 1996 and 2021. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess predictors of clinical and electrophysiological outcomes.

Results

FOP VEM allowed for immediate resection recommendation in 36 patients (20.0%) and excluded this option in 85 (47.2%). Fifty-nine (32.8%) patients required additional invasive EEG investigations; however, only eight with bilateral recordings. FOP VEM identified the ictal onset in 137 patients, compared to 96 during prior scalp VEM, p = .004. Predictors for determination of ictal onset were temporal lobe epilepsy (OR 2.9, p = .03) and lesional imaging (OR 3.1, p = .01). Predictors for surgery recommendation were temporal lobe epilepsy (OR 6.8, p < .001), FO seizure onset (OR 6.1, p = .002), and unilateral interictal epileptic activity (OR 3.8, p = .02). One-year postsurgical seizure freedom (53.3% of patients) was predicted by FO ictal onset (OR 5.8, p = .01). Two patients experienced intracerebral bleeding without persisting neurologic sequelae.

Conclusion

FOP VEM adds clinically significant electrophysiological information leading to treatment decisions in two-thirds of cases with a good benefit–risk profile. Predictors identified for electrophysiological and clinical outcome can assist in optimally selecting patients for this safe diagnostic approach.
Semi-uniform input-to-state stability of infinite-dimensional systems
Authors: Wakaiki Masashi
Published: June 2022

We introduce the notions of semi-uniform input-to-state stability and its subclass, polynomial input-to-state stability, for infinite-dimensional systems. We establish a characterization of semi-uniform input-to-state stability based on attractivity properties as in the uniform case. Sufficient conditions for linear systems to be polynomially input-to-state stable are provided, which restrict the range of the input operator depending on the rate of polynomial decay of the product of the semigroup and the resolvent of its generator. We also show that a class of bilinear systems are polynomially integral input-to-state stable under a certain smoothness assumption on nonlinear operators.
Using three scenarios to explain life expectancy in advanced cancer: attitudes of patients, family members, and other healthcare professionals
Authors: Nahm Sharon H. , Stockler Martin R. , Martin Andrew J. , Grimison Peter , Fox Peter , Zielinski Rob , Hawson Geoffrey AT. , Tattersall Martin HN. , Kiely Belinda E.
Published: June 2022

Aim

To evaluate a web-based tool for estimating and explaining three scenarios for expected survival time to people with advanced cancer (patients), their family members (FMs), and other healthcare professionals (HCPs).

Methods

Thirty-three oncologists estimated the “median survival of a group of similar patients” for patients seeking quantitative prognostic information. The web-based tool generated worst-case, most likely, and best-case scenarios for survival based on the oncologist’s estimate. Oncologists presented the scenarios to each patient and provided a printed summary to patients, FMs, and HCPs. Attitudes to the information were assessed by questionnaires. Observed survival for each patient was compared with the oncologist’s estimated survival and the three scenarios.

Results

Prognosis was discussed with 222 patients: median age 67 years; 61% male; most common primary sites pancreas 15%, non-small-cell lung 15%, and colorectal 12%. The median (range) for observed survival times was 9 months (0.5–43) and for oncologist’s estimated survival times was 12 months (2–96). Ninety-one percent of patients, 91% of FMs, and 84% of HCPs agreed that it was helpful having life expectancy explained as three scenarios. The majority (77%) of patients judged the information presented about their life expectancy to be the same or better than they had expected before the consultation. The survival estimates met a priori criteria for calibration, precision, and accuracy.

Conclusions

Patients, FMs, and HCPs found it helpful to receive personalized prognostic information formatted as three scenarios for survival. It was feasible, acceptable, and safe to use a web-based resource to do this.
Screening of orange peel waste on valuable compounds by gradient multiple development diode-array high-performance thin-layer chromatography
Authors: Spangenberg Bernd , Seigel Andrea , Brämer Regina
Published: June 2022

High-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC), as the modern form of TLC (thin-layer chromatography), is suitable for detecting pharmaceutically active compounds over a wide polarity range using the gradient multiple development (GMD) technique. Diode-array detection (DAD) in conjunction with HPTLC can simultaneously acquire ultraviolet‒visible (UV‒VIS) and fluorescence spectra directly from the plate. Visualization as a contour plot helps to identify separated zones. An orange peel extract is used as an example to show how GMD‒DAD‒HPTLC in seven different developments with seven different solvents can provide an overview of the entire sample. More than 50 compounds in the extract can be separated on a 6-cm HPTLC plate. Such separations take place in the biologically inert stationary phase of HPTLC, making it a suitable method for effect-directed analysis (EDA). HPTLC‒EDA can even be performed with living organism, as confirmed by the use of Aliivibrio fischeri bacteria to detect bioluminescence as a measure of toxicity. The combining of gradient multiple development planar chromatography with diode-array detection and effect-directed analysis (GMD‒DAD‒HPTLC‒EDA) in conjunction with specific staining methods and time-of-flight mass spectrometry (TOF‒MS) will be the method of choice to find new chemical structures from plant extracts that can serve as the basic structure for new pharmaceutically active compounds.
Validity and reliability of the Arabic version of the Self-Efficacy for Managing Chronic Disease scale in rheumatoid arthritis patients
Authors: Sarhan Shymaa A. , Kamal Doaa E. , Hamed Mona S. , Mostafa Dalia I.
Published: June 2022

Background and objectives

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune inflammatory condition that causing disability and affection of patient’s quality of life (QoL). Self-efficacy investigation helps us to detect the requirements of chronically affected patients and evaluation of self-care management programs. The aim of our study was to test validity and reliability of Self-Efficacy for Managing Chronic Disease (SEMCD-Arabic) in RA patients.

Method

This study included 248 RA patients, carried out at Rheumatology and Rehabilitation Department. The SEMCD-Arabic Validity was assessed by correlating the SEMCD-Arabic scale with the validated Arabic version of the modified Health Assessment Questionnaire HAQ (MHAQ), the Arabic version of the Multidimensional Assessment of Fatigue (MAF) scale, and the Arabic version of Short Form 36 version 2 for quality of life (SF QoL). Internal consistency, test–retest reliability was assessed.

Results

Convergent validity was confirmed by a positive correlation between (physical, mental) component of SF QoL and SEMCD-Arabic (r = 0.918,r = 0.925) respectively, and negative correlation between MAF and SEMCD-Arabic (r =  − 0.657) and MHAQ with SEMCD-Arabic (r =  − 0.595). Discriminant validity confirmed by a significant negative correlation between visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain, disease activity scale (DAS28), Morning stiffness, patient health, physician health, age, duration, and SEMCD-Arabic (r =  − 0.1–0.7) (P < 0.001). Test–retest reliability was estimated which revealed a high interclass correlation coefficient (ICC = 0.87–0.997) indicating excellent agreement and internal consistency is acceptable as the Cronbach’s alpha value (0.660 to 0.78).

Conclusion

The SEMCD-Arabic questionnaire can be used as a valid and reliable measure for assessment of patient’s self-efficacy in RA.

Key Points• The SEMCD-Arabic questionnaire has a statistically significant validity in correlation with different clinical manifestations MHAQ, SF QoL, and MAF.• The Arabic SEMCD is highly reliable with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.660 to 0.78.
Constraint-evading surrogacy: the missing piece in Radical Embodied Cognition’s non-representationalist account of intentionality?
Authors: Robinson Andrew , Southgate Christopher
Published: June 2022

Radical Embodied Cognition (REC) is an anti-representationalist approach to the nature of basic cognition proposed by Daniel Hutto and Erik Myin. While endorsing REC’s arguments against a role for contentful representations in basic cognition we suggest that REC’s ‘teleosemiotic’ approach to intentional targeting results in a ‘grey area’ in which it is not clear what kind of causal-explanatory concept is involved. We propose the concept of constraint-evading surrogacy as a conceptual basis for REC’s account of intentional targeting. The argument is developed via a reconsideration of Peter Godfrey-Smith’s ‘environmental complexity thesis’. We show how constraint-evading surrogacy clarifies REC’s account of intentionality by specifying the role of external natural signs and certain internal states (REC’s ‘Local Indexical Guides’). We argue that the resulting view of intentionality can be extended to proto-biotic autocatalytic systems, offering support for the life-mind continuity thesis. We leave open the question of whether it is helpful to consider constraint-evading surrogacy to be a form of (non-contentful) representation, but we suggest that there is a prima facie case for such a view.
Aerosol mass and size-resolved metal content in urban Bangkok, Thailand
Authors: Matthews James C. , Navasumrit Panida , Wright Matthew D. , Chaisatra Krittinee , Chompoobut Chalida , Arbon Robert , Khan M. Anwar H. , Ruchirawat Mathuros , Shallcross Dudley E.
Published: June 2022

Inhalable particulate matter (PM) is a health concern, and people living in large cities such as Bangkok are exposed to high concentrations. This exposure has been linked to respiratory and cardiac diseases and cancers of the lung and brain. Throughout 2018, PM was measured in northern Bangkok near a toll road (13.87°N, 100.58°E) covering all three seasons (cool, hot and rainy). PM10 was measured in 24- and 72-h samples. On selected dates aerodynamic size and mass distribution were measured as 3-day samples from a fixed 5th floor inlet. Particle number concentration was measured from the 5th floor inlet and in roadside survey measurements. There was a large fraction of particle number concentration in the sub-micron range, which showed the greatest variability compared with larger fractions. Metals associated with combustion sources were most found on the smaller size fraction of particles, which may have implications for associated adverse health outcomes because of the likely location of aerosol deposition in the distal airways of the lung. PM10 samples varied between 30 and 100 μg m−3, with highest concentrations in the cool season. The largest metal fractions present in the PM10 measurements were calcium, iron and magnesium during the hot season with average airborne concentrations of 13.2, 3.6 and 2.0 μg m−3, respectively. Copper, zinc, arsenic, selenium, molybdenum, cadmium, antimony and lead had large non-crustal sources. Principal component analysis (PCA) identified likely sources of the metals as crustal minerals, tailpipe exhaust and non-combustion traffic. A health risk analysis showed a higher risk of both carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic health effects in the drier seasons than the wet season due to ingestion of nickel, arsenic, cadmium and lead.

Graphical abstract
The EPINetz Twitter Politicians Dataset 2021. A New Resource for the Study of the German Twittersphere and Its Application for the 2021 Federal Elections
Authors: König Tim , Schünemann Wolf J. , Brand Alexander , Freyberg Julian , Gertz Michael
Published: June 2022

This research note introduces the EPINetz Twitter Politicians Dataset, a comprehensive dataset of 2449 Twitter accounts of German parliamentarians, minsters, state secretaries, parties, and ministries on a state, federal, and European Union level for the year 2021. This hand-curated dataset not only provides up-to-date information on elected officials, but it also includes additional variables such as their party affiliation, age, and gender. Furthermore, it provides linkages to additional data sources by providing the accounts’ Wikidata and Abgeordnetenwatch (Parliamentwatch) IDs. While it does not provide actual tweet data, the dataset will be a valuable resource for researchers by providing easy access to elected German politicians. We demonstrate some of the dataset’s uses with an analysis of the 2021 German Federal Elections. The full dataset can be accessed via https://doi.org/10.7802/2415.
Covariant constancy of quantum Steenrod operations
Authors: Seidel Paul , Wilkins Nicholas
Published: June 2022

We prove a relationship between quantum Steenrod operations and the quantum connection. In particular, there are operations extending the quantum Steenrod power operations that, when viewed as endomorphisms of equivariant quantum cohomology, are covariantly constant. We demonstrate how this property is used in computations of examples.
Supporting family carers in Ireland: the role of the general practitioner
Authors: Cronin Mary , McGilloway Sinead
Published: June 2022

Background

Ireland has over half a million family carers who provide care to a family member or loved one. Internationally, it is recognised that general practitioners (GPs) have a critical role to play in the identification and support of family carers, but, to date, no guidelines exist in Ireland to support GPs in this role.

Aims

The aim of this study was to examine how carers are currently supported (or not) by healthcare professionals in Ireland, with a particular focus on the role of the GP.

Methods

A mixed method design was used, involving a national online survey (N = 132) of family carers in Ireland and one-to-one interviews with 10 stakeholders (4 GPs; 6 carers). The quantitative data were analysed using a series of descriptive and inferential statistics; the interview data were analysed using framework analysis.

Results

Sixty-one per cent of the carer sample reported experiencing psychological distress, more than two-thirds of whom (69%) reported ‘rarely’ or ‘never’ being asked about their own health and wellbeing. Sixty-one per cent also felt misunderstood in terms of the challenges they face in their caring role. Three key themes were identified from the interview data including (1) GP role ambiguity; (2) navigating informal processes and (3) changing needs along the care trajectory.

Conclusions

The findings suggest important gaps in terms of the role of GPs vis-à-vis their support of family carers. GPs themselves indicated that they need both greater clarity regarding their role with family carers and more training and resources in this regard. A requirement for more streamlined communication and information provision was also highlighted by both GPs and carers. Carers reported a need for more information on the role of GPs in supporting carers as well as more support in addressing, in particular, the psychological complexities of carer identity and help seeking.
Police Dyads Within an Operational Simulation: an Empirical Test of the Research Propositions Made in the “Big Five” Teamwork Approach
Authors: Espevik Roar , Johnsen Bjørn Helge , Hystad Sigurd W.
Published: June 2022

Based on the impact of the theoretical big five of teamwork model proposed by Salas et al. (2005), the present study aimed at investigating the model within an operational police simulation. One hundred and sixty-seven frontline police officers participated in the study. Based on path analyses, a reduced model excluding trust and leadership obtained a good fit with the data.

The results provided some support for the model by confirming six out of 10 proposed direct effects and four out of seven indirect pathways. Shared mental models directly affected team adaptability, and backup behavior affects adaptability and team effectiveness. Team orientation affects mutual performance monitoring and backup behavior, and finally, reciprocal monitoring affects backup behavior. Monitoring influenced both team effectiveness and adaptability through backup behavior. Two paths from team orientation towards effectiveness were found. One flowing through monitoring and another through back-up behavior. Our study expands former knowledge of the big five theory by empirically testing the totality of the model and identifying important pathways.
Hyperkalaemia in Heart Failure: Consequences for Outcome and Sequencing of Therapy
Authors: Murphy Daniel , Banerjee Debasish
Published: June 2022

Purpose of Review

Heart failure (HF), in conjunction with common comorbidities such as chronic kidney disease and diabetes and medical therapies such as RAASi, predisposes to hyperkalaemia which may lead to hospitalisation and death. This paper aims to review the most current evidence surrounding the risks and management of hyperkalaemia in HF, with particular focus on recent research into RAASi including novel selective mineralocorticoid receptor blockers and novel potassium binders.

Recent Findings

The most recent evidence shows that even moderate hyperkalaemia may predispose to adverse outcomes such as hospitalisation and death. Furthermore, it may prevent patients from receiving optimal medical therapy for HF by reducing prescription of RAASi therapy. Novel potassium binders such as sodium zirconium cyclosilicate (SZC) and patiromer present potential options to reduce and prevent hyperkalaemia as well as maintain optimal RAASi dosing in HF.

Management of hyperkalaemia in HF has advanced in recent years. New therapies such as SZC and patiromer are contributing to the management of acute hyperkalaemia and also access to life-saving RAASi therapies by tackling and preventing hyperkalaemia in the community.
The Effects of Pain and Analgesic Medications on Blood Pressure
Authors: Rivasi Giulia , Menale Silvia , Turrin Giada , Coscarelli Antonio , Giordano Antonella , Ungar Andrea
Published: June 2022

Purpose of Review

To review the blood pressure (BP) effects of pain and analgesic medications and to help interpret BP changes in people suffering from acute or chronic pain.

Recent Findings

Acute pain evokes a stress response which prompts a transient BP increase. Chronic pain is associated with impaired regulation of cardiovascular and analgesia systems, which may predispose to persistent BP elevation. Also analgesics may have BP effects, which vary according to the drug class considered. Data on paracetamol are controversial, while multiple studies indicate that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may increase BP, with celecoxib showing a lesser impact. Hypotension has been reported with opioid drugs. Among adjuvants, tricyclic antidepressants and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors could be pro-hypertensive due to potentiation of adrenergic transmission.

Pain and analgesics may induce a clinically significant BP destabilization. The implications on hypertension incidence and BP control remain unclear and should be explored in future studies.

Graphical abstract
Forced Migration, Sexual and Gender-based Violence and Integration: Effects, Risks and Protective Factors
Authors: Phillimore Jenny , Block Karen , Bradby Hannah , Ozcurumez Saime , Papoutsi Anna
Published: June 2022

This paper is the first to use empirical evidence to directly examine the relationship between sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and multi-dimensional processes of integration of forced migrant SGBV survivors. While it is acknowledged that forced migrants are subjected to a continuum of violence, including SGBV, during the refugee journey, little is known about the long-term impact of SGBV and how it might be mitigated. Our paper, drawing on empirical evidence from 255 interviews with migrants and stakeholders in Australia, the UK, Sweden and Turkey, documented in detail the complex interactions between SGBV and integration using the Indicators of Integration framework. By bringing together the literature on the continuum of violence, SGBV and the Indicators of Integration framework, we identify, on the one hand, the impact of SGBV on integration, and, on the other, how the indicators framework can be used to identify protective and risk factors for forced migrant survivors.
Effective Educational Practices and Students’ Well-being: The Mediating Role of Students’ Self-efficacy
Authors: Lera Maria-Jose , Leon-Perez Jose M. , Ruiz-Zorrilla Paula
Published: June 2022

Effective educational practices aim to promote students’ academic achievement; however, they also have an impact on students’ well-being which is a growing topic of interest in educational research. In a sample of 2242 students (5th to 10th grades) nested in 104 classrooms from Spanish schools, we have tested the mediating role of students’ self-efficacy on the relationship between effective educational practices and both students’ well-being and academic performance. Analyses were run at student and class levels, by performing a multilevel mediation structural equation model with cross-sectional data. Results supported a partial mediation model at the individual level, in which effective educational practices had a direct and indirect effect on students’ well-being, and indirect effect on academic performance in math and language through self-efficacy. At the group level, results support a full mediation model of the effect of effective educational practices in class well-being and in class math performance (but not in language), mediated by the group mean of self-efficacy. These findings suggest the importance of educational practices in increasing self-efficacy beliefs on their students, as a source to increase students’ well-being and academic performance.
Failure behaviour of various pre-formed steel sheets with respect to the mechanical grain boundary properties
Authors: Norz Roman , Vitzthum Simon , Volk Wolfram
Published: June 2022

The forming history influences the mechanical properties and the formability of sheet metals. Numerous models and approaches have been published to implement this influence into FE-tools, based on isotropic damage or failure criterions. In this paper, the influence of a uniaxial pre-forming and a change in loading direction on the material parameters is investigated for two different steel grades in tensile tests. It was found, that a change in loading direction significantly affects the mechanical properties of the material. The force–displacement curves obtained from nanoindentation experiments were utilized to determine the flow curves for single grains as well as grain boundaries of the pre-formed materials. This was done by inverse parameter identification using finite element analysis.
Impact of prior accumulated work and intensity on power output in elite/international level road cyclists—a pilot study
Authors: Leo Peter , Giorgi Andrea , Spragg James , Gonzalez Borja Martinez , Mujika Iñigo
Published: June 2022

Background

This study aimed to investigate the impact of the intensity of prior accumulated work on the decline in power output in elite/international level road cyclists, comparing the effects of prior continuous moderate intensity versus intermittent high intensity cycling.

Methods

Nine elite/international level road cyclists (age 26.2 ± 4.0 years; body mass: 66.6 ± 5.5 kg; height: 176 ± 0.4 cm) conducted a 12-min field test (12 minfresh) during two consecutive training camps. Participants then performed both a 150-min moderate intensity continuous (MIC) work bout or a 150-min high intensity intermittent (HII) race simulation in randomized order, cross-over design. After each condition a 12-min field test (12 minfatigue) was completed.

Results

Absolute and relative 12 minfresh power output were not significantly different between training camps (p > 0.05). The 12 minfatigue power after HII was significantly lower than 12 minfatigue after MIC (∆ = 14 W; p = 0.014). Participants recorded more percentage time (%Time) in heart rate (HR) zone 3 (∆ = 9.2%; p = 0.003) and power output band between 5.0–7.9 W $$\cdot$$
∙
kg−1 (∆ = 8.9%; p = 0.002) as well as higher total work (∆ = 237 kJ; p ≤ 0.001) during HII.

Conclusion

These findings reveal that the decline in power output is higher after HII compared to MIC cycling work bouts. This suggests that the quantification of total work and intensity should be used in conjunction to predict a distinctive decline in power output. Future research is required to better understand the mechanisms of endurance “durability” in elite/international level road cyclists.
The Impact of BRCA1- and BRCA2 Mutations on Ovarian Reserve Status
Authors: C.E Drechsel Katja , C. van Tilborg Theodora , J.C. Eijkemans Marinus , G.W.M. Lentjes Eef , Irene Homminga , Mariette Goddijn , J.T. van Golde Ron , Willem Verpoest , D. Lichtenbelt Klaske , J.M. Broekmans Frank , M.E. Bos Anna
Published: June 2022

This study aimed to investigate whether female BRCA1- and BRCA2 mutation carriers have a reduced ovarian reserve status, based on serum anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) levels, antral follicle count (AFC) and ovarian response to ovarian hyperstimulation. A prospective, multinational cohort study was performed between October 2014 and December 2019. Normo-ovulatory women, aged 18–41 years old, applying for their first PGT-cycle for reason of a BRCA mutation (cases) or other genetic diseases unrelated to ovarian reserve (controls), were asked to participate. All participants underwent a ICSI-PGT cycle with a long-agonist protocol for controlled ovarian hyperstimulation. Linear and logistic regression models were used to compare AMH, AFC and ovarian response in cases and controls. Sensitivity analyses were conducted on BRCA1- and BRCA2 mutation carrier subgroups. Thirty-six BRCA mutation carriers (18 BRCA1- and 18 BRCA2 mutation carriers) and 126 controls, with mean female age 30.4 years, were included in the primary analysis. Unadjusted median AMH serum levels (IQR) were 2.40 (1.80–3.00) ng/ml in BRCA mutation carriers and 2.15 (1.30–3.40) ng/ml in controls (p = 0.45), median AFC (IQR) was 15.0 (10.8–20.3) and 14.5 (9.0–20.0),p = 0.54, respectively. Low response rate was 22.6% among BRCA mutation carriers and 9.3% among controls,p = 0.06. Median number of retrieved oocytes was 9 (6–14) in carriers and 10 (7–13) in controls,p = 0.36. No substantial differences were observed between BRCA1- and BRCA2 mutation carriers. Based on several biomarkers, no meaningful differences in ovarian reserve status were observed in female BRCA mutation carriers compared to controls in the context of ICSI-PGT treatment.
Fluoridanwendungen bei Kindern und Jugendlichen in Deutschland
Authors: Krause Laura , Mensink Gert B.M. , Hoepfner Tobias , Lindtner Oliver , Weißenborn Anke
Published: June 2022

Hintergrund und Ziel der Arbeit: Bei der Kariesprophylaxe spielt eine wirksame und sichere Fluoridanwendung eine wichtige Rolle. Fluoride machen den Zahnschmelz widerstandsfähiger und schützen vor Karies. Dieser Beitrag gibt einen Überblick über die Fluoridanwendung aus unterschiedlichen Quellen zur Kariesprophylaxe bei Kindern und Jugendlichen in Deutschland.

Methoden: Datengrundlage sind die in KiGGS Welle 2 (2014-2017) durchgeführten Ernährungsstudien KiESEL für 0,5- bis 5-Jährige und EsKiMo II für 6- bis 17-Jährige. Die Daten geben Auskunft über die Verwendung von Fluoridsupplementen, fluoridhaltiger Zahnpasta und fluoridiertem Salz. Ausgewiesen werden Prävalenzen und Ergebnisse multivariater binär-logistischer Regressionen. Es werden Unterschiede nach soziodemografischen Merkmalen berichtet.

Ergebnisse: Von den 0,5- bis 5-Jährigen hatten 14,6 % ein Fluoridsupplement erhalten. In allen betrachteten Altersgruppen verwendeten über 90 % der Kinder und Jugendlichen üblicherweise fluoridhaltige Zahnpasta, mit Ausnahme der 0,5- bis 2-Jährigen (63,4 %). In etwa der Hälfte der Haushalte (51,3 %) der 0,5- bis 5-Jährigen wurden Mahlzeiten für das Kind überwiegend mit fluoridiertem Salz zubereitet. Bei den 6- bis 17-Jährigen war dies nur bei etwa einem Drittel (29,8 %) der Fall.

Diskussion: Die Verwendung fluoridhaltiger Zahnpasta hat im Vergleich zur KiGGS-Basiserhebung (2003 - 2006) zugenommen. Sie ist bei den 0,5- bis 2-Jährigen gering, was sich teilweise durch die Empfehlungen zur Zeit der Datenerhebung erklären lässt, aber auch damit, dass bei einem Teil dieser Kinder (noch) keine Zahnpasta verwendet wurde. Fluoridiertes Salz wird insbesondere bei Kindern ab 6 Jahren noch zu selten zur Mahlzeitenzubereitung genutzt. Dies spricht für eine verstärkte Kommunikation der Empfehlungen zur Kariesprophylaxe und zur Förderung einer zahngesunden Ernährung.
Evaluating the Roles of sCD14 and sCD14-ST in Diagnosing COPD and Predicting an Acute Exacerbation of COPD
Authors: Zhang Rui , Sun Guangxin , Xing Zhengwei , Bai Yuling , Pei Hui , Gu Yulei , Huang Yahui , Zhang Xiaofan , Zhang Luanluan
Published: June 2022

Aim

To evaluate the roles of plasma soluble cluster of differentiation 14 (sCD14) and sCD14 subtype (sCD14-ST) in the diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and in the prediction of an acute exacerbation of COPD (AECOPD).

Methods

We quantified the levels of white blood cell count (WBC), C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, sCD14, and sCD14-ST in patients with COPD and healthy controls. The relationships between sCD14 or sCD14-ST and inflammatory markers were analyzed in each group. We used receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves to evaluate the potential roles of sCD14 and sCD14-ST in the diagnosis of COPD and in predicting AECOPD.

Results

A total of 62 subjects were recruited, including 15 controls and 47 COPD patients, with the latter including 32 stable COPD and 15 AECOPD. WBC, IL-8, sCD14, and sCD14-ST were significantly higher in COPD than in the controls (all P < 0.05). WBC, CRP, ESR, IL-6, IL-8, sCD14, and sCD14-ST were higher in AECOPD than in the controls (all P < 0.05). In the COPD group, sCD14 levels were positively correlated with WBC, IL-8, and sCD14-ST (P < 0.05), and sCD14-ST levels were positively correlated with WBC and IL-8 (P < 0.05). In the AECOPD group, sCD14 was positively correlated with WBC, CRP, IL-8, and sCD14-ST (P < 0.05); sCD14-ST was positively correlated with WBC, IL-6, and IL-8 (P < 0.05). Discrimination between COPD and controls was tested by calculating areas under the ROC curve (AUCs) for sCD14 and sCD14-ST showing scores of 0.765 (95% CI 0.648–0.883) and 0.735 (95% CI 0.537–0.933) respectively. Similarly, discrimination between AECOPD and controls using sCD14 and sCD14-ST showed scores of 0.862 (95% CI 0.714–1.000) and 0.773 (95% CI 0.587–0.960), respectively.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that the inflammatory markers sCD14 and sCD14-ST might play an important diagnostic role in COPD and help predict AECOPD.
Laboratory assessment of bacterial contamination of a sterile environment when using respirators not traditionally used in a sterile field environment
Authors: Myers Warren , Ajewole Segun , Xu Susan , Yorio Patrick , Hornbeck Adam , Zhuang Ziqing
Published: June 2022

Objective:

During infectious disease outbreaks or pandemics, an increased demand for surgical N95s that create shortages and necessitate the use of alternative National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)–approved respirators that do not meet the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) additional requirements. The objective of this research was to quantify the level of bacterial contamination resulting from wearing NIOSH-approved respirators lacking the additional protections afforded by surgical N95s.

Methods:

Participants performed simulated healthcare tasks while wearing 5 different respirators approved by the NIOSH. Sterile field contamination resulting from use of a surgical mask cleared by the FDA served as a baseline for comparison with the NIOSH-approved respirators.

Results:

The bacterial contamination produced by participants wearing the N95 filtering facepiece respirators (FFRs) without an exhalation valve, the powered air-purifying respirators (PAPRs) with an assigned protection factor of 25 or 1,000 was not significantly different compared to the contamination resulting from wearing the surgical mask. The bacterial contamination resulting from wearing the N95 FFR with an exhalation valve and elastomeric half-mask respirator (EHMR) with an exhalation valve was found to be statistically significantly higher than the bacterial contamination resulting from wearing the surgical mask.

Conclusions:

Overall, NIOSH-approved respirators without exhalation valves maintain a sterile field as well as a surgical mask. These findings inform respiratory guidance on the selection of respirators where sterile fields are needed during shortages of surgical N95 FFRs.
Intertextuality and Subversion: Nezāmi in Modern Persian Literature
Authors: Werner Christoph U.
Published: June 2022

This study proposes an innovative, triangular close reading of three Persian authors: Nezāmi, Golshiri, and Mandanipour. It argues that the two modern authors, Hushang Golshiri with his famous novellaShāh-e siyāhpushān, the “King of those clad in black,” and Shahriar Mandanipour in hisCensoring an Iranian Love Story, are not only bound to each other in a close master-disciple relationship, but also consciously expound on the subversive potential of the twelfth-century poet Nezāmi. In the process, the divide between modern and classical narrative traditions in Persian literature is bound to disappear, allowing for novel interpretations and perspectives on Nezāmi and for his epics to be heard.
Fingering instability in wildfire fronts
Authors: Harris S.J. , McDonald N.R.
Published: June 2022

A two-dimensional model for the evolution of the fire line – the interface between burned and unburned regions of a wildfire – is formulated. The fire line normal velocity has three contributions: (i) a constant rate of spread representing convection and radiation effects; (ii) a curvature term that smooths the fire line; and (iii) a Stefan-like term in the direction of the oxygen gradient. While the first two effects are geometrical, (iii) is dynamical and requires the solution of the steady advection–diffusion equation for oxygen, with advection owing to a self-induced ‘fire wind’, modelled by the gradient of a harmonic potential field. The conformal invariance of this coupled pair of partial differential equations, which has the Péclet number

$\textit {Pe}$

as its only parameter, is exploited to compute numerically the evolution of both radial and infinitely long periodic fire lines. A linear stability analysis shows that fire line instability is possible, dependent on the ratio of curvature to oxygen effects. Unstable fire lines develop finger-like protrusions into the unburned region; the geometry of these fingers is varied and depends on the relative magnitudes of (i)–(iii). It is argued that for radial fires, the fire wind strength scales with the fire's effective radius, meaning that

$\textit {Pe}$

increases in time, so all fire lines eventually become unstable. For periodic fire lines,

$\textit {Pe}$

remains constant, so fire line stability is possible. The results of this study provide a possible explanation for the formation of fire fingers observed in wildfires.
Canonical scale separation in two-dimensional incompressible hydrodynamics
Authors: Modin Klas , Viviani Milo
Published: June 2022

The rules that govern a two-dimensional inviscid incompressible fluid are simple. Yet, to characterise the long-time behaviour is a knotty problem. The fluid fulfils Euler's equations: a nonlinear Hamiltonian system with an infinite number of conservation laws. In both experiments and numerical simulations, coherent vortex structures emerge after an initial stage. These formations dominate the large-scale dynamics, but small scales also emerge and persist. The resulting scale separation resembles Kraichnan's theory of forward and backward cascades of enstrophy and energy. Previous attempts to model the double cascade use filtering techniques that enforce separation from the outset. Here, we show that Euler's equations possess an intrinsic, canonical splitting of the vorticity function. The splitting is remarkable in four ways: (i) it is defined solely by the Poisson bracket and the Hamiltonian; (ii) it characterises steady flows; (iii) it innately separates scales, enabling the dynamics behind Kraichnan's qualitative description; and (iv) it accounts for ‘broken line’ energy spectra observed in both experiments and numerical simulations. The splitting originates from Zeitlin's truncated model of Euler's equations in combination with a standard quantum tool: the spectral decomposition of Hermitian matrices. In addition to theoretical insight, the scale separation dynamics enables stochastic model reduction, where multiplicative noise models small scales.
Contraception knowledge and practices among students in Lebanese universities
Authors: Abi Tayeh Georges , Khalil Khalil , Khoury Alexandra , Maalouf Samer , Mansour Fersan , Attieh Elie , Sassine Serge , Abi Antoun Melissa , Zakaria Hoda
Published: June 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the proportion of contraception users among Lebanese youth, and the extent of knowledge and perception on birth control; and to raise awareness and sensitise young adults to sexual health, which remains taboo in Lebanon. The 30-item questionnaire was broadcasted to students in private and public universities in Lebanon, through social media and it collected information on contraception use and student knowledge. Over 30% of responders were medical students, and 41% have ever used contraceptives (mostly women); among which, 52.1% for contraception versus 47.9% for medical reasons. According to responders, the pill ranked high in terms of effectiveness (72.4% of responders perceive the pill as effective), followed by the male condom (69.1%) and the hormonal intrauterine device (29.6%). Some would not use contraception in the future, for religious reasons (30.8%) or for fear of complications (46.2%); indeed, around a third of contraceptive users (all female) have experienced adverse effects. Finally, students expressed concern about long-term complications of contraceptive use (pulmonary embolism/phlebitis, breast/endometrial/ovarian cancer, stroke, depression and myocardial infarction). Though less frequent than in the Western world, contraception use in Lebanon is non-negligible and gaps in university students’ knowledge on contraception were identified; which should prompt sexual education and family planning initiatives in Lebanon.
A synthesis method of spatial over-constrained mechanisms based on kinematics of serial manipulators
Authors: Lee Fu-Hsiung , Hsu Kuan-Lun
Published: June 2022

This paper proposes a modular method based on the kinematics of serial manipulators to synthesize over-constrained mechanisms. Because the PPP manipulator has an unlimited work space, its end-effector can be constrained to trace a trajectory identical to those of another open-chain manipulator, including a P joint single link and an RR dyad. In doing so, two open-chain manipulators can be concatenated to form closed-loop mechanisms, including PPPP, PPPRR, or PPCR mechanisms. To design over-constrained mechanisms efficiently, the Denavit–Hartenberg convention is adopted to describe the PPP manipulator kinematically, and the Euler angles are utilized to derive geometric constraints of synthesized over-constrained mechanisms. Next, kinematic equations of the PPP manipulator can be modularized and applicable to analyze different closed-loop mechanisms. At last, by adjusting link lengths, twisted angles, and joint angles of the synthesized PPPRR and PPCR mechanisms to form other over-constrained mechanisms configurationally. The novelty of this research lies in modularizing the over-constrained mechanism into two movable serial manipulators whose end-effectors share identical trajectory and orientation. Thus, defining geometrical constraints of the over-constrained mechanism can be transformed into finding angular parameters describing the orientation of these two serial manipulators such that the end-effector coordinate system of two manipulators can properly be aligned. Angular parameters of the serial manipulators can be easily determined by means of Euler angles, which yields an advantage of easy calculation since it only involves the computation of Euler angles parameters. The presented method can be extended to the kinematic synthesis and analysis of more spatial closed-loop mechanisms.
TECHNOLOGY AND TRANSITIONAL JUSTICE
Authors: Murphy Colleen
Published: June 2022

Transitional justice refers to the process of dealing with widespread wrongdoing characteristically committed during the course of conflict and/or repression. Examples of such processes include criminal trials, truth commissions, reparations, and memorials. Technology is altering the forms that widespread wrongdoing takes. Technology is also altering the form of processes of transitional justice themselves. This essay provides a map of these changes and their normative implications.
Revisiting the moderating effect of speaker proficiency on the relationships among intelligibility, comprehensibility, and accentedness in L2 Spanish
Authors: Huensch Amanda , Nagle Charlie
Published: June 2022

This report examines the potential impacts of task and proficiency on listener judgments of intelligibility, comprehensibility, and accentedness in L2 Spanish. This study extends Huensch and Nagle [Language Learning, 71, 626–668, (2021)], who explored the partial independence among the global speech dimensions for speech samples taken from a picture narrative task. Given that the type of speaking task used to elicit speech samples has been shown to impact the strength of the linguistic features contributing to the global speech dimensions and to explore the impact of task on the relationships among the dimensions, the current study followed the same procedure as Huensch and Nagle but employed a task in which participants responded to a prompt based on NCSSFL-ACTFL Can-Do Statements. The speech samples were elicited from instructed L2 Spanish learners of varying proficiency (n = 42) and were rated by a group of native-speaking Spanish listeners (n = 80) using Amazon Mechanical Turk. In general, the results were consistent with those reported in the initial study indicating a significant, positive, and consistent relationship between comprehensibility and intelligibility and a null relationship between accentedness and intelligibility. The limited differences between the studies’ findings are discussed considering the potential impact of task.
Thinking with the Jewish State: The Norwegian Labour Movement, Israel and ‘Civilisation’, 1949–1951
Authors: Gjerde Åsmund Borgen
Published: June 2022

In 1949, Norwegian social democratic representations of Zionism and Israel shifted from mere support to idealisation. Despite the existence of an increasingly voluminous literature on the European left and Zionism, idealisation of Israel has never previously been explained as distinct from more general support. Regarding the Norwegian case, this article argues that idealisation differed from mere support in its implicit message about the status of ‘civilisation’. Support for Zionism in 1947–8 had been founded on the notion that Europeans needed to ensure the survival of the Jews in a Jewish state in order for European civilisation itself to survive. The idealisation of Israel that emerged from 1949 implicitly argued that Israel proved the attainability of the civilisational ideal and removed from European shoulders the obligation to ensure civilisation's survival. For the Norwegian labour movement, the 1949 decision to make Norway a founding member of NATO contributed to making idealisation of Israel particularly desirable.
‘Beauty Has Ever a Healing Touch’: Visible Internationalism at the 1927 Exhibition of Flemish and Belgian Art in London
Authors: Scaglia Ilaria
Published: June 2022

This article examines the Exhibition of Flemish and Belgian Art, 1300 to 1900, which was hosted by the London Royal Academy in 1927. Based on materials from multiple archives, it demonstrates that this event showcased both artefacts and the internationalist policies that had led to their preservation and display. This exhibition constitutes a leading example of a new kind of political performance, which expanded after 1945 and still affects international gatherings and cultural diplomacy to this day.