bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Highly‐Sensitive, Stable, and Fast‐Response Lead‐Free Cs2AgBiBr6 Double Perovskite Photodetectors Enabled by Synergistic Engineering of Doping Na+/Ce3+ and Integrating Ag Nanoparticles Film
Authors: Ding Nan , Shao Long , Xie Tianyu , Pan Gencai , Zhou Donglei , Bai Xue , Lu Siyu , Hu Junhua , Zhou Ji , Xu Wen , Song Hongwei
Published: September 2022

Lead‐free double halide perovskites stand out as a promising material for constructing stable and environmental‐friendly photodetectors (PDs) because of the excellent stability and nontoxicity. However, the performance (e.g., detectivity and response speed) of lead‐free double halide perovskites based PDs is still low. Herein, highly sensitive, stable, and fast‐response Cs2AgBiBr6 perovskite PDs are presented by synergistic engineering of doping optimization of Na+/Ce3+ and integrating with Ag nanoparticles (NPs). Compared to pristine Cs2AgBiBr6, Cs2AgBiBr6:Na+,Ce3+ film is endowed with higher crystallization quality and better stability after Na+,Ce3+ codoping, toward the reduced defect density, the improved charge mobility. Meanwhile, a significantly enhanced charge extraction and transport in Cs2AgBiBr6:Na+,Ce3+/Ag NPs hybrid film is achieved by further integrating with Ag NPs. Finally, Cs2AgBiBr6:Na+,Ce3+/Ag NPs hybrid film‐based PDs are developed, delivering high detectivity of 1.34 × 1012 Jones@460 nm and 1.18 × 1012 Jones@370 nm, which is the relatively high in lead‐free double halide perovskites PDs and exceeds the most results of the previous reports in the ultraviolet and visible range. The devices also show outstanding stability and fast‐response time (395 ns). This work opens up a novel frontier for developing lead‐free perovskite PDs.
NIfTI‐MRS: A standard data format for magnetic resonance spectroscopy
Authors: Clarke William T. , Bell Tiffany K. , Emir Uzay E. , Mikkelsen Mark , Oeltzschner Georg , Shamaei Amirmohammad , Soher Brian J. , Wilson Martin
Published: September 2022

Purpose

Multiple data formats in the MRS community currently hinder data sharing and integration. NIfTI‐MRS is proposed as a standard spectroscopy data format, implemented as an extension to the Neuroimaging informatics technology initiative (NIfTI) format. This standardized format can facilitate data sharing and algorithm development as well as ease integration of MRS analysis alongside other imaging modalities.

Methods

A file format using the NIfTI header extension framework incorporates essential spectroscopic metadata and additional encoding dimensions. A detailed description of the specification is provided. An open‐source command‐line conversion program is implemented to convert single‐voxel and spectroscopic imaging data to NIfTI‐MRS. Visualization of data in NIfTI‐MRS is provided by development of a dedicated plugin for FSLeyes, the FMRIB Software Library (FSL) image viewer.

Results

Online documentation and 10 example datasets in the proposed format are provided. Code examples of NIfTI‐MRS readers are implemented in common programming languages. Conversion software, spec2nii, currently converts 14 formats where data is stored in image‐space to NIfTI‐MRS, including Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) and vendor proprietary formats.

Conclusion

NIfTI‐MRS aims to solve issues arising from multiple data formats being used in the MRS community. Through a single conversion point, processing and analysis of MRS data are simplified, thereby lowering the barrier to use of MRS. Furthermore, it can serve as the basis for open data sharing, collaboration, and interoperability of analysis programs. Greater standardization and harmonization become possible. By aligning with the dominant format in neuroimaging, NIfTI‐MRS enables the use of mature tools present in the imaging community, demonstrated in this work by using a dedicated imaging tool, FSLeyes, for visualization.
Reduction of the cardiac pulsation artifact and improvement of lesion conspicuity in flow‐compensated diffusion images in the liver—A quantitative evaluation of postprocessing algorithms
Authors: Führes Tobit , Saake Marc , Lorenz Jennifer , Seuss Hannes , Stemmer Alto , Benkert Thomas , Uder Michael , Laun Frederik Bernd
Published: September 2022

Purpose

To enhance image quality of flow‐compensated diffusion‐weighted liver MRI data by increasing the lesion conspicuity and reducing the cardiac pulsation artifact using postprocessing algorithms.

Methods

Diffusion‐weighted image data of 40 patients with liver lesions had been acquired at 1.5 T. These data were postprocessed with 5 different algorithms (weighted averaging, p‐mean, percentile, outlier exclusion, and exception set). Four image properties of the postprocessed data were evaluated for optimizing the algorithm parameters. These properties were the lesion to tissue contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR), the reduction of the cardiac pulsation artifact, the data consistency, and the vessel darkness. They were combined into a total quality score ( set to 1 for the trace‐weighted reference image), which was used to rate the image quality objectively.

Results

The weighted averaging algorithm performed best according to the total quality score (). The further ranking was outlier exclusion algorithm (), p‐mean algorithm (), percentile algorithm (), and exception set algorithm (). All optimized algorithms except for the exception set algorithm corrected the pulsation artifact and increased the lesion CNR. Changes in were significant for all optimized algorithms except for the percentile algorithm. Liver ADC was significantly reduced (except for the exception set algorithm), particularly in the left lobe.

Conclusion

Postprocessing algorithms should be used for flow‐compensated liver DWI. The proposed weighted averaging algorithm seems to be suited best to increase the image quality of artifact‐corrupted flow‐compensated diffusion‐weighted liver data.
Mediastinal infantile hemangioma with spinal canal extension and extensive gastrointestinal involvement complicated by respiratory failure
Authors: Cohen‐Cutler Sally , Detterich Jon A. , Miller Joseph M. , Anselmo Dean M. , Luu Minnelly , Mascarenhas Leo
Published: September 2022

Infantile hemangioma is the most common soft tissue tumor of infancy. Extensive organ involvement is rare. This report describes an infant with biopsy confirmed infantile hemangioma with diffuse organ involvement causing anemia and failure to thrive. Treatment was initiated with propranolol and led to initial improvement; however, course was complicated by several episodes of respiratory failure secondary to pulmonary edema. Propranolol therapy was interrupted for several months while patient was maintained on a diuretic regimen and treated with vincristine and high‐dose corticosteroids. Patient was transitioned back to propranolol and is clinically thriving with objective improvement on radiographic imaging.
Experimental investigations for variability quantification of vibration response of short(−natural)‐fiber‐reinforced polypropylene
Authors: Proy J. , Massa F. , Notta‐Cuvier D. , Lauro F. , Tison T. , Spingler G.
Published: September 2022

Short‐fiber‐reinforced‐materials are widely used in industry today. In this paper, microstructure and modal analyses are performed on short‐glass‐fiber‐reinforced polypropylene (PPGF) and short‐natural‐fiber‐reinforced polypropylene (PPNF), to study possible links between the first natural frequency and fibers' orientation and quantify the associated variability. In view of this, different specimens were tested with clamped‐free boundary conditions. The microstructural analysis, performed with micro‐computed tomography studies fibers' properties in injection‐molded plates. This study shows the importance of considering real fibers' orientation for modal predictions.
Partition testing for real‐world evidence studies
Authors: Cafri Guy , Wood Jennifer , Gagne Joshua
Published: September 2022

Traditional approaches to hypothesis testing in comparative post‐approval safety and effectiveness studies of medical products are often inadequate because of a limited scope of possible inferences (e.g., superiority or inferiority). Often there is interest in simultaneously testing for superiority, equivalence, inferiority, non‐inferiority, and non‐superiority, which can be achieved using a partition testing framework. Partition testing only requires selection of an equivalence margin and calculation of a two‐sided Wald confidence interval. In addition to permitting a broader range of inferences, the strengths of the approach include: mitigating publication bias, avoiding use of a clinically irrelevant nil hypothesis, and more transparent and impartial appraisal of the clinical importance of a study's findings by pre‐specifying an equivalence margin. However, a challenge in implementing the approach can be the process for identifying an equivalence margin. The methodology is illustrated using a published study of the safety of Ondansetron for the off‐label treatment of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. Applying the method to the study results would have led to a conclusion that women exposed to Ondansetron in comparison to those that are not, are equivalent with respect to risk of cardiac malformations and oral clefts. These conclusions are more in line with the magnitude of the observed effects than the conclusions resulting from a traditional inferiority/superiority testing conducted by the study authors.
Insight into the role of debris in the formation of polytetrafluoroethylene film via molecular dynamic simulation of debris adhesion
Authors: Niu Xiaoxing , Zhou Shidong , Pan Deng , Zhao Yuanliang , Li Lei
Published: September 2022

In this paper, the role of debris in the formation of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) film was investigated using the molecular dynamic simulation of debris adhesion. The results indicate that the internal structure of PTFE debris could not be changed easily because of the strong cohesion of PTFE debris. Debris will be adhered on Fe surface by the strong adhesion between Fe surface and debris. With the formation of transfer film, the adhesion between thin debris and Fe surface decreases gradually and will be lower than that of debris and PTFE matrix. The difference of the adhesion between PTFE debris and friction pairs will induce the quite different adsorption behavior of thin debris and thick debris. With the formation of stable transfer film, thin debris tends to be adhered on PTFE matrix and thick debris tends to be adhered on Fe surface. This will reduce the interfacial adhesion of friction pairs. The interactive influence between the adsorption of debris and the evolution of transfer film is beneficial to the decrease of COF and the wear of PTFE.
Radiographic paradoxical response in metastatic castrate‐resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) managed with new generation anti‐androgens: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Alamiri Jamal , Britton Cameron J. , Ahmed Mohamed E. , Andrews Jack R. , Higa Julianna L. , Dundar Ayca , Karnes R. Jeffrey , Kwon Eugene , Lowe Val J. , Kendi Ayse T. , Bold Michael S. , Pagliaro Lance C.
Published: September 2022

Background

Prostatic specific antigen (PSA) has well‐recognized limitations as a marker for treatment response and disease progression. Post hoc analysis of the PREVAIL trial reported 24.5% of chemotherapy naïve metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) patients on enzalutamide had radiographic progression on conventional imaging with nonrising PSA. In this study, we sought to study the discordance of imaging with PSA kinetics in mCRPC patients on second generation anti‐androgens (SGA) post‐chemotherapy using combined conventional imaging, and new generation imaging in the form of C‐11 choline positron emission tomography/computed tomography (C[11] choline PET/CT) scan.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 123 patients with mCRPC treated with SGA (Abiraterone or Enzalutamide) after docetaxel between 2016 and 2019. Patients underwent PSA testing, and C[11] choline PET/CT scan at baseline level before starting treatment with SGA, then every 3–6 months as part of their follow up evaluation. Loss of response to SGA was defined by increase in corrected maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) of pretreatment lesions on C‐11 Choline PET/CT, and/or development of new lesions. Suspicious new lesions were confirmed by biopsy and/or conventional imaging.

Results

We identified 123 mCRPC patients who received SGA (Abiraterone, n = 106; Enzalutamide, n = 17) after docetaxel. Median duration of therapy was 13.9 months (interquartile range: 8.75–21.14). Approximately 43% (n = 53) of subjects in this study exhibited an increase in choline avidity while on SGA. Of this group, 60.4% of patients experienced a parallel rise in PSA (Group‐A), whereas 39.6% displayed a paradoxical response (PR) (Group‐B), defined as increased choline avidity combined with stable or down‐trending PSA. Median PSA at time of increase in choline avidity was 3.1 ng/ml for Group‐A, and 1.3 ng/ml for Group‐B (p = 0.0176). Median SUVmax was similar in both groups (4.9 for Group‐A, 4.6 for Group‐B; p = 0.6072). The median time for increase in choline avidity was 9.5 versus 3.9 months for Group‐A versus Group‐B, respectively (Log‐Rank = 0.0063).

Conclusion

Nearly 40% of mCRPC patients placed on SGA post docetaxel chemotherapy will exhibit paradoxical responses to therapy, therefore, warranting close follow up with imaging. C‐11 choline PET/CT imaging is a useful tool that can help in early predication of disease progression or treatment failure.
Iatrogenic empyema secondary to the malposition of a nasogastric tube
Authors: Chan Daryl Emery Chee Yeow , Mansour Verena , Ting Aaron , Gupta Saurabh , Frankel Anthony
Published: September 2022

Blind NGT insertion can lead to tube misplacement into the respiratory tract. This can lead to multiple pulmonary complications including lung injury, pneumothorax, pneumonia, empyema and diaphragmatic injury. We present the case of an 80 year‐old female who required an NGT insertion for severe oropharyngeal dysphagia from an acute stroke. Her admission was complicated by multiple pneumothoraces from repeated insertions, as well as the unusual complication of a recurrent nasogastric feeding‐related empyema requiring multiple intercostal chest drain insertions for drainage. This case highlights the importance of careful NGT insertion and placement with imaging confirmation before use.
Metagenomic signature and total petroleum hydrocarbons distribution in a crude oil contaminated ultisol remediated with biochar–humus sediment slurry
Authors: Offiong Nnanake‐Abasi O. , Inam Edu J. , Fatunla Opeyemi K. , Ofon Utibe A. , Abraham Nsikak A. , Essien Joseph P.
Published: September 2022

Ultisols are peculiar soils generally known for their poor nutrient status. When contaminated, remediation of ultisols present the additional challenge of nutrient and ecological restoration. In this study, we report the distribution of total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPHs) in a simulated crude oil‐contaminated ultisol amended with biochar (BC)/humus sediment (HS) slurry. We also investigated the microbial abundance, diversity, and enzyme expression in the treatment medium that gave the optimum remediation results. We recorded lowest TPH levels in remediant amendments with BC produced at 700°C. Majority of the OTUs (27.96%) found in the remediated ultisol belonged to Firmicutes (27.96%), Proteobacteria (25.88%), and Gemmatimonadetes (23.32%) while enzymes (AlkM, alkB, AlmA, PRM, cP450, MMO/AMO subunits A, B, and C, and Genes ssuD, ssuC, dszC, dszA, and dszB) encountered in this study were expressed mainly by bacteria belonging to the order Actinomycetales and Bulkhoderiales.
Using analytical equations to represent nonlinear relationships
Authors: Ríos‐Ocampo Juan , Gary Michael Shayne
Published: September 2022

Table functions, also referred to as graphical functions, provide a powerful and user‐friendly way to represent nonlinear relationships between variables in system dynamics (SD) models. However, in many cases modelers may benefit from using analytical equations to represent nonlinear relationships for model sensitivity testing and also for communicating with researchers in other fields and disciplines. We propose six analytical equations that can be used to represent many of the nonlinear relationships commonly formulated using table functions in SD models. Specifically, this article provides guidance on using the generalized logistic function, the exponential function, the modified exponential function, the quadratic function, the logarithmic function and the power function to replace existing table functions. Importantly, we also present a version of each equation that includes an interior reference point. We demonstrate how to apply these analytical equations in SD models by replacing the table functions in the original World Dynamics model. We also provide a Python script to help implement our recommended procedure for incorporating the six analytical equations into models and a Vensim macro for each analytical equation. © 2022 The Authors. System Dynamics Review published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of System Dynamics Society.
Surface evolution of InP substrates at the frontier between deoxidation and dissolution in HCl solutions
Authors: Béchu Solène , Aureau Damien , Etcheberry Arnaud
Published: September 2022

Surfaces of InP substrates with different crystallographic orientations are investigated when facing HCl solutions. The immersion of InP(100) in HCl solutions with a wide concentrations range showed that the frontier between deoxidation and dissolution is around 6 m, with a morphological destructuration. However, no chemical evolutions are noticed even at high concentrations. Similar observations were performed with other crystallographic orientations (polycrystalline and InP(111) substrates), with topographic surface modifications but no chemical ones.
Correction to: Concluding Remarks: Tontine Thinking
Authors: Milevsky Moshe
Published: September 2022

The original version of the book was inadvertently published with typos. The phrase Toronto Maple Leafs was incorrectly changed to Toronto Maple Leaves. Also, the “Large of Large Numbers” should be the “Law of Large Numbers” in the sentence “It’s the nature of the institution itself, and the lawyers really don’t care that the Large of Large Numbers operates regardless of the type of paper it’s written on.”
The thoracoacromial trunk: a detailed analysis
Authors: Bonczar Michał , Gabryszuk Kamil , Ostrowski Patryk , Batko Jakub , Rams Daniel Jakub , Krawczyk-Ożóg Agata , Wojciechowski Wadim , Walocha Jerzy , Koziej Mateusz
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The thoracoacromial trunk (TAT) originates from the second part of the axillary artery and curls around the superomedial border of the pectoralis minor, subsequently piercing the costocoracoid membrane. Knowledge about the location, morphology, and variations of the TAT and its branches is of great surgical importance due to its frequent use in various reconstructive flaps.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted to establish anatomical variations, their prevalence, and morphometric data on TAT and its branches. The results of 55 consecutive patients who underwent neck and thoracic computed tomography angiography were analyzed. A qualitative evaluation of each TAT was performed.

Results

A total of 15 morphologically different TAT variants were initially established. The median length of the TAT was set at 7.74 mm (LQ 3.50; HQ 13.65). The median maximum diameter of the TAT was established at 4.19 mm (LQ 3.86; HQ 4.90). The median TAT ostial area was set to 13.97 mm (LQ 11.70; HQ 18.86). To create a heat map of the most frequent location of the TAT, measurements of the relating structures were made.

Conclusion

In this study, the morphology and variations of the branching pattern of the TAT were presented, proposing a new classification system based on the four most commonly prevalent types. The prevalence of each branch arising directly from the TAT was also analyzed. It is hoped that the results of the present anatomical analysis can help to minimize potential complications when performing plastic or reconstructive procedures associated with TAT.
Does attentional suppression occur at the level of perception or decision-making? Evidence from Gaspelin et al.’s (2015) probe letter task
Authors: Kerzel Dirk , Renaud Olivier
Published: September 2022

Visual attention is often inadvertently captured by salient stimuli. It was suggested that it is possible to prevent attentional capture in some search tasks by suppressing salient stimuli below baseline. Evidence for attentional suppression comes from a probe task that was interleaved with the main search task. In the probe task of Gaspelin et al. (Psychol Sci 26(11):1740–1750, 2015. https://doi.org/10.1177/0956797615597913), letters were shown on the stimuli of the search display and participants had to identify as many letters as possible. Performance was found to be worse for letters shown on the distractor compared to non-salient non-target stimuli, suggesting that distractor processing was suppressed below baseline. However, it is unclear whether suppression occurred at the level of perception or decision-making because participants may have reported letters on the distractor less frequently than letters on nontargets. This decision-level bias may have degraded performance for letters on distractor compared to nontarget stimuli without changing perception. After replicating the original findings, we conducted two experiments where we avoided report bias by cueing only a single letter for report. We found that the difference between distractor and nontarget stimuli was strongly reduced, suggesting that decision-level processes contribute to attentional suppression. In contrast, the difference between target and non-target stimuli was unchanged, suggesting that it reflected perceptual-level enhancement of the target stimuli.
Pathology associated with Tripaphylus Richiardi, 1878 infection (Copepoda: Sphyriidae) in wild-caught Australian blackspot sharks, Carcharhinus coatesi (Whitley, 1939), off northern Australia
Authors: Barton Diane P. , Kirke Amy , Johnson Grant , Boxshall Geoff
Published: September 2022

Female specimens of the newly described mesoparasitic copepod Tripaphylus squidwardi (Sphyriidae), collected from the Australian blackspot shark, Carcharhinus coatesi, off northern Australia were examined histologically. The ‘encapsulated’ head of the copepod was found in the ventral musculature of the throat of the shark. The head of the copepod was surrounded by a tissue capsule of unknown origin. There were signs of chronic inflammation associated with the infection, although there appeared to be no effect on the health of the shark.
Efficacy and safety analysis of bortezomib-based triplet regimens sequential lenalidomide in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients
Authors: Zhou Qiaolin , Xu Fang , Wen Jingjing , Yue Jing , Zhang Ya , Su Jing , Liu Yiping
Published: September 2022

The aim of this study is to analyze the efficacy and safety of sequential therapy with bortezomib-based triplet regimens without lenalidomide (PXD, including VTD, PAD, and VCD) followed by continuous lenalidomide and dexamethasone (Rd) or bortezomib and dexamethasone (Vd) treatment. The main objective is to evaluate the advantages of PXD followed by Rd compared to the combinations of bortezomib–lenalidomide–dexamethasone (VRd) in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM). Fifty-eight nontransplant NDMM patients who were admitted to our department from 2017 to 2019 were included in this study. Bortezomib-based triplet regimens were initially selected and followed by Rd or Vd as continuous treatment once the patients achieved partial remission (PR) or better response. The efficacy and safety of the patients were observed. The Rd continuous treatment cohort was compared with historical data from the EVOLUTION trial on continuous VRd treatment. In our cohort, the overall survival rate was 100%, and progression-free survival (PFS) was 38.5% after a median of 19 (4–36) cycles of Rd continuous therapy was applied. During the follow-up period, the best outcome assessments achieved were 53.8% complete response (CR) and 84.6% excellent partial response (VGPR). A total of 23.1% had grade 3–4 or higher drug-related adverse reactions, mainly hematological toxicity, and no patients died of adverse reactions. Compared with the Vd group, the Rd group had a better PFS and VGPR rate (2-year PFS: 92.3% vs. 56.3%, P = 0.002; 3-year PFS: 69.2% vs. 8.0%, P < 0.001; VGPR: 84.6% vs. 69.2%, P = 0.02). No significant differences were found in ORR (100% vs. 92.3%) or CR (53.8% vs. 35.7%, P = 0.082). Compared with the EVOLUTION study, patients in the Rd group had a more advanced disease stage (stage III rate of 40% vs. 19%, P = 0.039) and worse physical status (KPS 50–60 rate of 25.0% vs. 2.0%, P = 0.000). However, a higher proportion of ORR (100% vs. 73.0%, P < 0.001), VGPR or better (75.0% vs. 32.0%, P < 0.001), and PFS at 12 months (90.0% vs. 68%, P = 0.011) were achieved. Sequential administration of bortezomib-based triplet regimens without lenalidomide as an initial therapy followed by Rd as a continuous treatment may not be inferior to VRd for first-line treatment in NDMM patients.
Compressive strength evaluation of thin occlusal veneers from different CAD/CAM materials, before and after acidic saliva exposure
Authors: Ille Codruța , Moacă Elena-Alina , Pop Daniel , Goguță Luciana , Opriș Carmen , Pîrvulescu Ioana Ligia , Avram Liane , Faur Andrei , Jivănescu Anca
Published: September 2022

In the present study are depicted valuable observations for practitioners, obtained from an in vitro study which aims to evaluate the compressive strength of occlusal veneers fabricated from 3 type of restorative materials, before and after 1 month of acidic artificial saliva exposure (pH = 2.939). In this context, 90 extracted human molars were prepared to receive computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) occlusal veneers. The restorative materials considered in this study were: Cerasmart; Straumann Nice and Tetric CAD. The occlusal veneers were designed, milled and cemented with an adhesive dual-cure resin cement. From all the extracted human molars, only sixty specimens were immersed in acidic artificial saliva, for 1 month, at 37 °C ± 1 °C and part of this specimens were also thermo-cycled, between 5 and 55 °C ± 2 °C, before compressive strength test. The results showed a lower compressive strength for both the samples exposed to acidic artificial saliva as well as for the samples exposed to acidic artificial saliva and thermo-cycled. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed that after compressive strength, all the specimens non-exposed to acidic artificial saliva, present extensive cracks formation at the surface of the restorations, and after exposure to acidic artificial saliva for 1 month, the surface damage was characterized by longitudinal and profound fractures of the restoration, as well as the fracture of the tooth structure. Between CAD/CAM materials tested, nanoceramic resin shows more favorable fracture patterns, both before and after acidic artificial saliva exposure.
Untere Einkommensgruppen noch gezielter entlasten
Authors: Kritikos Alexander S. , Schulze Düding Johanna , Morales Octavio , Priem Maximilian
Published: September 2022

Prices for energy and food are currently rising extraordinarily sharply. Households with low net incomes in particular are being burdened by the price increases, in some cases dramatically. According to current inflation forecasts, price increases for the lowest-income ten percent would mean a burden of 5.3 percent of their net household income in 2022. Since the low-income deciles cannot compensate for the additional expenditure by reducing their savings rate or possible reserves, nor can they restrict their consumption behavior to a corresponding extent since they primarily consume goods and services for basic needs, it is essential to provide relief for these households. The measures already adopted by the German government are easing the burden on citizens, but they are not enough to compensate for the additional burden on lower-income households. Further aid packages should provide targeted and efficient relief for households at the lower half of the income distribution.
EU-Pläne für einen CO2-Grenzausgleich
Authors: Söllner Fritz
Published: September 2022

Das CO2-Grenzausgleichssystem der EU kann die Verlagerung der Produktion bzw. von Emissionen in Drittländer nur zum Teil verhindern. Es wird sehr hohe Kosten verursachen, nicht zu einer kosteneffizienten Emissionsreduktion beitragen und kaum Anreize für Drittländer schaffen, ihre Emissionen zu reduzieren. Das System ist nicht WTO-konform und wird deshalb Anlass zu handelspolitischen Streitigkeiten und Konflikten geben, unter denen vor allem Deutschland mit seinen hohen Exportüberschüssen zu leiden haben wird. Es spricht vieles dafür, das vorgeschlagene System nicht zu realisieren und die Wettbewerbsnachteile europäischer Unternehmen weiter durch die teilweise kostenlose Zuteilung von ETS-Zertifikaten auszugleichen.
Finanzierung einer kapitalgedeckten Altersgrundsicherung über die Erbschaftsteuer
Authors: Löhr Dirk
Published: September 2022

Die umlagefinanzierte gesetzliche Rentenversicherung kann angesichts der demografischen Entwicklung eine auskömmliche Versorgung im Alter bald nicht mehr sichern. Indem die Bürger:innen über eine kapitalgedeckte Alterssicherung am Unternehmensvermögen mittelbar beteiligt werden, könnte die Rentenlücke zumindest teilweise geschlossen werden. Das Unternehmensvermögen sollte bei einem neuen Reformanlauf auch vollständig in die Erbschaftsteuer einbezogen werden; dabei darf aber der Fortbestand der Unternehmen nicht gefährdet werden. Die Erbschaftsteuer auf Unternehmensvermögen könnte dabei als Finanzierungsquelle für eine kapitalgedeckte Altersgrundsicherung dienen.
Betriebliche Bündnisse sichern Beschäftigung
Authors: Seifert Hartmut , Pusch Toralf
Published: September 2022

Zu den betrieblichen Bündnissen liefert dieser Beitrag einige empirische Ergebnisse aus einer repräsentativen Befragung von Betriebsräten. Dabei werden die vereinbarten Inhalte mit denen der Finanzkrise 2009 verglichen, um zu prüfen, ob sich bestimmte Grundmuster aufgrund erfahrungsgesättigter Praxis wiederholen, aber auch neue Spezifika angesichts veränderter Problemkonstellationen herausbilden. Schließlich wird diskutiert, welche Schlussfolgerungen im Falle eines möglichen neuerlichen Konjunkturabschwungs zu ziehen sind.
Verschwendung der Jahresendausgaben im öffentlichen Sektor: Replik und Erwiderung
Authors: Schwarting Gunnar , Siemroth Christoph
Published: September 2022

In der Juniausgabe 2022 veröffentlichte der Wirtschaftsdienst einen Aufsatz mit dem Titel „Dezemberfieber senken: Vermeidung von verschwenderischen Jahresendausgaben“ von Christoph Siemroth. Gunnar Schwarting vertritt in einer Replik eine andere Auffassung, im Anschluss erläutert Christoph Siemroth seinen Standpunkt in einer Erwiderung.
How progress evaluations are used in postgraduate education with longitudinal supervisor-trainee relationships: a mixed method study
Authors: Westein Marnix P. D. , Koster A. S. , Daelmans H. E. M. , Bouvy M. L. , Kusurkar R. A.
Published: September 2022

The combination of measuring performance and giving feedback creates tension between formative and summative purposes of progress evaluations and can be challenging for supervisors. There are conflicting perspectives and evidence on the effects supervisor-trainee relationships have on assessing performance. The aim of this study was to learn how progress evaluations are used in postgraduate education with longitudinal supervisor-trainee relationships. Progress evaluations in a two-year community-pharmacy specialization program were studied with a mixed-method approach. An adapted version of the Canadian Medical Education Directives for Specialists (CanMEDS) framework was used. Validity of the performance evaluation scores of 342 trainees was analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA. Semi-structured interviews were held with fifteen supervisors to investigate their response processes, the utility of the progress evaluations, and the influence of supervisor-trainee relationships. Time and CanMEDS roles affected the three-monthly progress evaluation scores. Interviews revealed that supervisors varied in their response processes. They were more committed to stimulating development than to scoring actual performance. Progress evaluations were utilized to discuss and give feedback on trainee development and to add structure to the learning process. A positive supervisor-trainee relationship was seen as the foundation for feedback and supervisors preferred the roles of educator, mentor, and coach over the role of assessor. We found that progress evaluations are a good method for directing feedback in longitudinal supervisor-trainee relationships. The reliability of scoring performance was low. We recommend progress evaluations to be independent of formal assessments in order to minimize roles-conflicts of supervisors.
Impact of COVID-19 on Adolescent HIV Prevention and Treatment Research in the AHISA Network
Authors: Lowenthal Elizabeth D. , DeLong Stephanie M. , Zanoni Brian , Njuguna Irene , Beima-Sofie Kristin , Dow Dorothy , Shayo Aisa , Schreibman Alana , Ahmed Charisse V. , Chapman Jennifer , Chen Lydia , Mehta Shreya , Mbizvo Michael T.
Published: September 2022

Members of the Adolescent HIV Prevention and Treatment Implementation Science Alliance (AHISA) network conduct research aiming to close gaps between what is known to be impactful across the HIV prevention and treatment cascade, and services delivered to optimize outcomes for adolescents/young adults (AYA) in high HIV-prevalence settings. The COVID-19 pandemic introduced new challenges which threaten to exacerbate care and access disparities. We report results of a survey among AHISA teams with active AYA HIV research programs in African countries to determine how the pandemic has impacted their efforts. Results highlighted the detrimental impact of the pandemic on research efforts and the expanded need for implementation research to help provide evidence-based, context-specific pandemic recovery support. Key lessons learned included the viability of remote service delivery strategies and other innovations, the need for adaptive systems that respond to evolving contextual needs, and the need for organized documentation plans, within empathic and flexible environments.
Some game theoretic marketing attribution models
Authors: Molina Elisenda , Tejada Juan , Weiss Tom
Published: September 2022

In this paper, we propose and analyse two game theoretic approaches to design attribution mechanisms for multi-channel marketing campaigns. Both approaches are based on a key performance index function that provides the benefit obtained in each of the observed paths to conversion. The first approach considers the problem as a cooperative transferable utility game, and the proposed attribution mechanisms are based on the Shapley value. The second approach models the problem as a bankruptcy problem and the proposed attribution mechanism is based on the constrained equal-losses rule. We also extend the above approaches to deal with the cases in which the position or the repetition of the channels on the paths to conversion are taken into account.
Modified Lévy flight distribution algorithm for global optimization and parameters estimation of modified three-diode photovoltaic model
Authors: Houssein Essam H. , Hassan Mohamed H. , Kamel Salah , Hussain Kashif , Hashim Fatma A.
Published: September 2022

Many real-world problems demand optimization, minimization of costs and maximization of profits, and meta-heuristic algorithms have proficiently proved their ability to achieve optimum results. This study proposes an alternative algorithm of Lévy Flight Distribution (LFD) by integrating Opposition-based learning (OBL) operator, termed LFD-OBL, for resolving intrinsic drawbacks of the canonical LFD. The proposed approach adopts OBL operator for catering search stagnancy to ensure faster convergence rate. We validate the usefulness of our approach through IEEE CEC’20 test suite, and compare results with original LFD and several other counterparts such as Moth-flame optimization, whale optimization algorithm, grasshopper optimisation algorithm, thermal exchange optimization, sine-cosine algorithm, artificial ecosystem-based optimization, Henry gas solubility optimization, and Harris’ hawks optimization. To further validate the efficiency of LFD-OBL, we apply it on parameters optimization of Solar Cell based on the Three-Diode Photovoltaic model. The qualitative and quantitative results of all the experiments performed in this study suggest superiority of the proposed method.
Rising of a global silent killer: critical analysis of chronic kidney disease of uncertain aetiology (CKDu) worldwide and mitigation steps
Authors: Priyadarshani Watte Vidanelage Dinesha , de Namor Angela F. Danil , Silva S. Ravi P.
Published: September 2022

Chronic kidney disease of uncertain aetiology (CKDu) is an advanced version of chronic kidney disease (CKD) which bears a high burden on the world health economy. More than 200 articles were analysed to understand the disease responsible for more than 30,000 deaths per year. CKDu is a non-communicable occupational disease that has a progressive deterioration of the kidney in the absence of CKD risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes and glomerulonephritis, while the diagnosis is only possible at the later stages when kidney function is no longer effective. Published evidence for the existence of CKDu was found for around 35 countries. This is a growing health issue in Asia, Central America, Africa and Middle East with identified hot spots. Despite many research studies over decades, the exact root causes are still uncertain. Six main suspected causative factors are identified. Those are heat stress, strenuous labour, dehydration, use of agrochemicals, exposure to heavy metals and the use of polluted water and agricultural lands. This review summarizes four key areas which are CKDu and its general medical background, worldwide prevalence, suspected causative factors and potential circumventing steps to mitigate against CKDu. The importance of further studies addressing early detection and surveillance methods, contribution of nephrotoxins in environmental health, soil chemistry on transporting nephrotoxins, geological parameters which influence the prevalence of the disease and other related sectors to overcome the mysterious nature is highlighted. Mitigation steps to lessen the burden of CKDu are also identified.
Extremists are more confident
Authors: Heinzelmann Nora , Tran Viet
Published: September 2022

Metacognitive mental states are mental states about mental states. For example, I may be uncertain whether my belief is correct. In social discourse, an interlocutor’s metacognitive certainty may constitute evidence about the reliability of their testimony. For example, if a speaker is certain that their belief is correct, then we may take this as evidence in favour of their belief or its content. This paper argues that, if metacognitive certainty is genuine evidence, then it is disproportionate evidence for extreme beliefs. In support of the argument, we report findings from five studies with different participant samples, designs, and measures. These studies show that, the more extreme an agent’s belief (positive or negative), the more certain they are about it, and vice versa. This relationship might contribute to moralism, virtue signalling, and polarisation, which in turn may be epistemically and morally problematic. Therefore, we caution against taking metacognitive certainty as genuine evidence.
The Einstein metrics with smooth scri
Authors: Tafel J.
Published: September 2022

We consider solutions of the Einstein equations with cosmological constant $$\Lambda \ne 0$$

Λ
≠
0

admitting conformal compactification with smooth scri. Metrics are written in the Bondi–Sachs coordinates and expanded into inverse powers of the affine distance r. Unlike in the case $$\Lambda =0$$

Λ
=
0

all free data are located on the scri. They are constrained by linear differential equations for the Bondi mass and angular momentum aspects. Given free data components of metric are defined in a recursive way.
Influence of humic acid molecular fractions on growth and development of soybean seedlings under salt stress
Authors: Matuszak-Slamani Renata , Bejger Romualda , Cieśla Jolanta , Bieganowski Andrzej , Koczańska Magdalena , Gawlik Andrzej , Kulpa Danuta , Sienkiewicz Mariola , Włodarczyk Małgorzata , Gołębiowska Dorota
Published: September 2022

In the present study, the influence of humic acid (HA) molecular fractions (HA < 30 kDa and HA > 30 kDa) on enhancing the tolerance of seedlings of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] Progres and Nawiko cultivars to salt stress (50 mM NaCl) was investigated. HA were extracted from mountain fen soil and then were separated into two molecular fractions by membrane filtration and characterized by diffusion coefficient (Dapp), electrolytic conductivity (κ) and electrophoretic mobility (Ue). The following biometric parameters of tested plants were determined: total leaf area, height of plants, fresh and dry mass of the over ground part and roots as well as length of shoots cells and length of stomas. The chlorophyll content in ground tissue as well as the macro and microelements content in tested plants also were determined. The results showed that the κ, Ue and Dapp for HA > 30 kDa were lower than these for HA < 30 kDa. Adding NaCl caused increase κ and decrease Dapp and Ue. The salt stress caused a major decrease in biometric parameters in tested plants. HA > 30 kDa reduced the uptake of macro and microelements in the soybean Progres cultivar. In soybean Nawiko cultivar, it caused significant uptake of Fe and Zn. Soybean cultivars showed strong reaction to salt stress. HA molecular fractions reduced or eliminated the influence of the salt stress. However, HA > 30 kDa was more effective than HA < 30 kDa, due to its properties.
They do not fear the unknown: Ancylus fluviatilis (Mollusca, Planorbidae) shows no predator avoidance behavior towards a novel invasive predator
Authors: Richter Luise , Küster Chantal Flo , Berendonk Thomas U. , Worischka Susanne
Published: September 2022

Biological invasion is a strong threat to native biodiversity, with limnic systems being especially vulnerable due to historical separation and resulting prey naivety. The prey naivety hypothesis states that native species may not be able to recognize novel predators due to a lack of common evolutionary background and, therefore, become easy targets. In a laboratory experiment, we added cues of native European bullhead (Cottus gobio Linnaeus, 1758) and invasive round goby [Neogobius melanostomus (Pallas, 1814)] to Ancylus fluviatilis Müller, 1774 originating from two different populations within the same river (one naive, one experienced towards round goby) and compared their predator avoidance behavior. Individuals from both populations recognized cues from the known predator C. gobio and reduced their locomotive activity. To round goby cues, however, naive individuals did not respond, thereby supporting the prey naivety hypothesis. Experienced individuals, in contrast, reduced their activity, suggesting a learning effect due to the co-occurrence of invasive predator and prey. At fast moving invasion fronts of highly invasive species like N. melanostomus, prey naivety can, hence, enhance their negative impact on ecosystems. Behavioral adaptation of native species resulting in predator avoidance reactions could, therefore, play an important role in ecosystem resilience and temporal invasion dynamics.
Effective Thermal Conductivity of Nanofluids Containing Silicon Dioxide or Zirconium Dioxide Nanoparticles Dispersed in a Mixture of Water and Glycerol
Authors: Bioucas Francisco E. Berger , Köhn Christian , Jean-Fulcrand Annelise , Garnweitner Georg , Koller Thomas M. , Fröba Andreas P.
Published: September 2022

The present study investigates the effective thermal conductivity of nanofluids containing crystalline or amorphous silicon dioxide (SiO2), or zirconium dioxide (ZrO2) nanoparticles dispersed in a mixture of water and glycerol with a mass ratio of 60:40. Such fluids are relevant as potential cutting fluids in tribology and feature a broad distribution of irregularly shaped non-spherical particles of dimensions on the order of (100 to 200) nm that were produced by comminution of larger particles or particle aggregates. A new steady-state guarded parallel-plate instrument was applied for the absolute measurement of the effective thermal conductivity of the nanofluids with an expanded uncertainty (coverage factor k = 2) of 3% for temperatures from (293 to 353) K and particle volume fractions up to 0.1. For a constant volume fraction of 0.03 for the three particle types, the measured thermal-conductivity ratios, i.e. the effective thermal conductivity of the nanofluids relative to the thermal conductivity of the base fluid, are less than 1.05 and not affected by temperature. In the case of the nanofluids with crystalline SiO2, with increasing particle volume fraction from 0.03 to 0.10 the thermal-conductivity ratios increase up to values of about 1.18 for all temperatures. A comparison of the measurement results with the Hamilton-Crosser model and an analytical resistance model for the effective thermal conductivity of nanofluids shows that the former one allows for better predictions for the present nanofluids with a relatively large viscosity. In this context, it could be shown that detailed knowledge about the sphericity and thermal conductivity of the dispersed nanoparticles is required for the modeling approaches.
Further Results on a Generalized van der Waals Model
Authors: Amin Magdy E
Published: September 2022

A generalized van der waals model is considered to study the thermodynamic properties of pure fluids. Analytical solution of the equivalent cubic equation of state is presented and the critical properties in the general form are derived. The fluctuations of number of particles are calculated in the grand canonical ensemble by using three quantities (scaled variance $$\omega (N)$$

ω
(
N
)

, skewness $$S\sigma, $$

S
σ
,

and kurtosis $$k\sigma ^2$$

k

σ
2

). The critical behavior of these quantities is investigated in terms of the dimensionless particle number density and temperature for different models. It is found that the fluctuations have a singular behavior close to the critical point.