bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diversities and the Generalized Circumradius
Authors: Bryant David , Huber Katharina T. , Moulton Vincent , Tupper Paul F.
Published: April 2023

The generalized circumradius of a set of points $$A\subseteq \mathbb {R}^d$$

A
⊆

R

d

with respect to a convex body K equals the minimum value of $$\lambda \ge 0$$

λ
≥
0

such that a translate of $$\lambda K$$

λ
K

contains A. Each choice of K gives a different function on the set of bounded subsets of $$\mathbb {R}^d$$

R

d

; we characterize which functions can arise in this way. Our characterization draws on the theory of diversities, a recently introduced generalization of metrics from functions on pairs to functions on finite subsets. We additionally investigate functions which arise by restricting the generalized circumradius to a finite subset of $$\mathbb {R}^d$$

R

d

. We obtain elegant characterizations in the case that K is a simplex or parallelotope.
Kindermedizinische Vision einer gesunden Schule
Authors: Thun-Hohenstein Leonhard
Published: April 2023

Kinder- und Jugendmedizinisches Denken und Handeln versteht sich aus den Grundlagen der Medizin einerseits und dem Biopsychosozialen Modell andererseits. Anhand dieser Grundlagen wird eine zukünftige Schule beschrieben. Dieses Vision umfasst eine inklusive Herangehensweise an Bildung als ganzheitlichen Entwicklungsprozess, indem Schule eine Umwelt (architektonisch, personell) bilden muss, die den Kindern und Jugendlichen in der Auseinandersetzung mit der mittelbaren und unmittelbaren Umgebung ermöglicht, die Welt zu verstehen, in der Gemeinschaft mit anderen Menschen zu reifen und für die Bewältigung des Lebens notwendiges Wissen und Fertigkeiten zu erwerben.

Modell für diese „Gesundheit fördernde Schulen“ sollten die Empfehlungen der WHO/UNICEF und der Europäischen Union sein, die dieses Konzept bis hin zu Umsetzungsempfehlungen für die Regierungen bzw. die Bildungsverantwortlichen ausformuliert haben. Kern dieser Schulen sind multiprofessionelle Gesundheitsteams, die in den Lehrkörper integriert mit diesem gemeinsam die Schule im Sinn der körperlichen und seelischen Gesundheitsförderung entwickeln.
Inklusion aus der Sicht von Schülerinnen
Authors: Promussas Stella , Sallinger Chiara , Dandler Julia , Danek Georg
Published: April 2023

Drei junge Frauen mit Stoffwechselerkrankungen berichten, wie in den von ihnen besuchten pädagogischen Einrichtungen mit ihrer Krankheit umgegangen wurde bzw. wird, und formulieren Kritik sowie Vorschläge für einen besseren inklusiven Umgang von Schüler*innen mit chronischen Krankheiten.
The precision of two alternative indirect workflows for digital model production: an illusion or a possibility?
Authors: Elkersh Noha Mohamed , Fahmy Rania A. , Zayet Mohamed K. , Gaweesh Yousria S. , Hassan Mohamed G.
Published: April 2023

Objective

Despite the clear drive from both research and clinical dentistry toward digital transformation, there are limitations to implementing intra-oral scanning (IOS) into daily dental practice. This study aimed to compare the precision of digital models obtained from two alternative indirect workflows to direct IOS.

Material and methods

Two indirect digital workflows were evaluated in this study. In the IOS group (direct), IOS directly obtained digital impressions of participants’ upper and lower dental arches, while in the Scan Impression (Scan Imp) group (indirect), a desktop scanner scanned silicone-based impressions of upper and lower whole arches that were taken with plastic trays. In the cone-beam computed tomography impression (CBCT Imp) group (indirect), a CBCT machine scanned the silicone-based impressions. Then, the precision of the entire arch and individual teeth for all digital impressions was virtually quantified. Following superimposition, differences between standard tessellation language (STL) files obtained from both—direct and indirect—methods were evaluated by color-mapping and measuring the surface distance between superimposed STL files. Furthermore, 18 linear measurements were taken from each digital model. ANOVA with repeated measures, Pearson coefficient, and intraclass correlation coefficient were used for intergroup comparisons.

Results

The digital models obtained from the two indirect workflows differed from the IOS in some dental and intra-arch measurements but were considered clinically acceptable. Ranked against IOS, CBCT Imp models had greater precision, followed by Scan Imp.

Conclusion

Digital models obtained from two indirect, alternative workflows, desktop, and CBCT scanning of impression, have clinically acceptable accuracy and reliability of tooth size and intra-arch measurements, providing the use of proper methodologies.

Clinical relevance

There are some limitations to implementing IOS in daily clinical practice. However, several alternative digital model production techniques might provide an affordable solution. Although they may insignificantly differ in accuracy, all can be applied clinically.
Referring physicians' intention to use hospital report cards for hospital referral purposes in the presence or absence of patient-reported outcomes: a randomized trial
Authors: Emmert Martin , Schindler Anja , Heppe Laura , Sander Uwe , Patzelt Christiane , Lauerer Michael , Nagel Eckhard , Frömke Cornelia , Schöffski Oliver , Drach Cordula
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This study aims to determine the intention to use hospital report cards (HRCs) for hospital referral purposes in the presence or absence of patient-reported outcomes (PROs) as well as to explore the relevance of publicly available hospital performance information from the perspective of referring physicians.

Methods

We identified the most relevant information for hospital referral purposes based on a literature review and qualitative research. Primary survey data were collected (May–June 2021) on a sample of 591 referring orthopedists in Germany and analyzed using structural equation modeling. Participating orthopedists were recruited using a sequential mixed-mode strategy and randomly allocated to work with HRCs in the presence (intervention) or absence (control) of PROs.

Results

Overall, 420 orthopedists (mean age 53.48, SD 8.04) were included in the analysis. The presence of PROs on HRCs was not associated with an increased intention to use HRCs (p = 0.316). Performance expectancy was shown to be the most important determinant for using HRCs (path coefficient: 0.387, p < .001). However, referring physicians have doubts as to whether HRCs can help them. We identified “complication rate” and “the number of cases treated” as most important for the hospital referral decision making; PROs were rated slightly less important.

Conclusions

This study underpins the purpose of HRCs, namely to support referring physicians in searching for a hospital. Nevertheless, only a minority would support the use of HRCs for the next hospital search in its current form. We showed that presenting relevant information on HRCs did not increase their use intention.
Highly energetic rockfalls: back analysis of the 2015 event from the Mel de la Niva, Switzerland
Authors: Noël François , Nordang Synnøve Flugekvam , Jaboyedoff Michel , Travelletti Julien , Matasci Battista , Digout Michaël , Derron Marc-Henri , Caviezel Andrin , Hibert Clément , Toe David , Talib Miloud , Wyser Emmanuel , Bourrier Franck , Toussaint Renaud , Malet Jean-Philippe , Locat Jacques
Published: April 2023

Process-based rockfall simulation models attempt to better emulate rockfall dynamics to different degrees. As no model is perfect, their development is often accompanied and validated by the valuable collection of rockfall databases covering a range of site geometries, rock masses, velocities, and related energies that the models are designed for. Additionally, such rockfall data can serve as a base for assessing the model’s sensitivity to different parameters, evaluating their predictability and helping calibrate the model’s parameters from back calculation and analyses. As the involved rock volumes/masses increase, the complexity of conducting field-test experiments to build up rockfall databases increases to a point where such experiments become impracticable. To the author’s knowledge, none have reconstructed rockfall data in 3D from real events involving block fragments of approximately 500 metric tons. A back analysis of the 2015 Mel de la Niva rockfall event is performed in this paper, contributing to a novel documentation in terms of kinetic energy values, bounce heights, velocities, and 3D lateral deviations of these rare events involving block fragments of approximately 200 m3. Rockfall simulations are then performed on a “per-impact” basis to illustrate how the reconstructed data from the site can be used to validate results from simulation models.
Evaluation of the in vitro acaricidal effect of five organic compounds on the cattle fever tick Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus (Acari: Ixodidae)
Authors: Oliva Chávez Adela S. , Guzman Valencia Stephanie , Lynn Geoffrey E. , Rosario Charluz Arocho , Thomas Donald B. , Johnson Tammi L.
Published: April 2023

The cattle fever tick, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, is the most economically important tick worldwide. Infestations with this tick can lead to direct damage and cattle mortality due to the transmission of potentially deadly pathogens. Management of this tick species has been focused on the use of synthetical acaricides; however, the emergence of acaricide resistance to single or multiple active ingredients has resulted in a need for novel acaricide compounds. Among potential avenues for the discovery of novel acaricides are plant-derived compounds. The efficacy of five organic compounds (nootkatone, Stop the Bites®, BioUD®, lavender oil, and cedarwood oil) was evaluated using larval immersion tests (LITs), repellency assays, and adult immersion tests (AITs). The results from the LITs indicate that three of the organic compounds (NootkaShield™, Stop the Bites, BioUD) led to significant mortalities at low concentrations (0.2, 0.02, and 0.08%, respectively). By comparison, lavender and cedar oil led to around 90% mortality at 10 and 1% concentrations, respectively. Similarly, NootkaShield, Stop the Bites, and BioUD had strong repellent properties with over 90% repellency at the two highest concentrations tested. Using the FAO 2004 guidelines, we evaluated the effectiveness of these organic compounds at reducing the fecundity of R. (B.) microplus and show that Nootkatone, Stop the Bites, and BioUD may significantly decrease tick populations (Drummond’s index > 90% at concentrations of 5%), highlighting their potential as alternatives to synthetic acaricides for the control of cattle fever ticks.
The Corporate Samaritan: Advancing Understanding of the Role of Deontic Motive in Justice Enactment
Authors: Zwank Julia , Diehl Marjo-Riitta , Gollwitzer Mario
Published: April 2023

Although the literature on organizational justice enactment is becoming richer, our understanding of the role of the deontic justice motive remains limited. In this article, we review and discuss theoretical approaches to and evidence of the deontic justice motive and deontic justice enactment. While the prevalent understanding of deontic justice enactment focuses on compliance, we argue that this conceptualization is insufficient to explain behaviors that go beyond the call of duty. We thus consider two further forms of deontic behavior: humanistic and supererogatory behavior. Drawing on the concepts of situation strength and person strength, we further argue that the reduced variance in behavior across morally challenging situations makes deontic justice enactment visible. We thus observe deontic justice enactment when an actor’s deontic justice motive collides with strong situational cues or constraints that guide the actor to behave differently. We formulate propositions and develop a theoretical model that links the deontic justice motive to moral maturation and deontic justice enactment.
Brigatinib pharmacokinetics in patients with chronic hepatic impairment
Authors: Hanley Michael J. , Kerstein David , Tugnait Meera , Narasimhan Narayana , Marbury Thomas C. , Venkatakrishnan Karthik , Gupta Neeraj
Published: April 2023

Brigatinib is an anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) inhibitor approved for the treatment of ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer. This open-label, parallel-group study investigated the effect of chronic hepatic impairment on the pharmacokinetics (PK) of brigatinib to inform dosing recommendations for these patients. Participants with hepatic impairment classified according to Child-Pugh categories of mild (A), moderate (B), or severe (C) and matched-healthy participants with normal hepatic function received a single oral dose of 90-mg brigatinib. Plasma samples were collected for the determination of brigatinib plasma protein binding and estimation of plasma PK parameters. Twenty-seven participants were enrolled (Child-Pugh A–C, n = 6 each; matched-healthy participants, n = 9). The mean fraction of free plasma brigatinib was comparable for the Child-Pugh A (11.1%), Child-Pugh B (10.8%), and healthy participant groups (8.5%); free brigatinib was higher in the Child-Pugh C group (23.1%). There were no clinically meaningful effects of mild or moderate hepatic impairment on unbound systemic exposures (area under the plasma concentration-time curve [AUC]) of brigatinib (geometric least-squares mean ratios [90% CI] of 89.32% [69.79%–﻿114.31%] and 99.55% [77.78%–127.41%], respectively). In the severe hepatic impairment group, brigatinib unbound AUC was approximately 37% higher (geometric least-squares mean ratio [90% CI] of 137.41% [107.37%–175.86%]) compared with healthy participants with normal hepatic function. Brigatinib was well tolerated in healthy participants and in participants with hepatic impairment. No dose adjustment is required for patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment. The brigatinib dose should be reduced by approximately 40% for patients with severe hepatic impairment.
Conceptualizing Community-based Environmental Peacebuilding in Cesar, Colombia
Authors: Hachmann Samyra , Löhr Katharina , Morales-Muñoz Héctor , Eufemia Luca , Sieber Stefan , Bonatti Michelle
Published: April 2023

In conflict studies, environmental peacebuilding (EPB) has become an established concept to explain how environmental cooperation among opposing parties provides a platform for peacebuilding. EPB literature has been shaped predominantly by political science perspectives, initially with a focus on interstate conflicts, and ecological dynamics have received little attention to date. Building on the Social-Ecological Systems Framework (SESF), we develop a framework for community-based EPB and test it in post-conflict settings in the department of Cesar, Colombia. We use a qualitative mixed-methods approach, with 26 semi-structured interviews, six focus group discussions, and a World Café session with 30 participants. Our findings show that in six cases communities self-organize to access, conserve, and defend water and land resources while striving to achieve recognition of their civic rights by state actors. A central outcome of cooperation within and among communities is the (re)construction of collective and territorial identities and increased social cohesion. However, community-based EPB does not contribute to improving relations between communities and the private sector or the state, thus failing to strengthen actor relationships that are essential for Colombian peacebuilding. Despite limitations of this exploratory analysis, our approach proves fruitful for integrating ecological aspects in the understanding of EPB. To further develop the EPB concept, future research should look to other disciplines to diversify the understanding of key terms like resource value, cooperation, and peace.
Head for the Hills: Nucleated Hilltop Settlement in the Irish Bronze Age
Authors: O’Driscoll James
Published: April 2023

In Bronze Age Ireland, the settlement record almost exclusively comprises individual, isolated farmsteads dotted throughout the island (Ginn inEmania, 21: 47–58, 2013; Ginn, Mapping society: Settlement structures in Later Bronze Age Ireland, Archaeopress, 2016). Recent studies have shown that these are incredibly homogeneous, with the nearly 700 excavated examples showing no signs of significant variation in terms of size or density and little in the way of high-status material culture. This conflicts with other evidence from this period, which points to an elite culture inferred from extensive long-distance trading, the manufacture of high-status goods and the construction of massive communal monuments such as hillforts. The latter comprise some of Europe’s largest and most impressive monuments and are often recognised as regional centres of power and authority. Until recently, these monuments have received little attention in Ireland and have rarely been integrated into the broader study of Irish Bronze Age settlement patterns. Indeed, it is at hillforts, which might be regarded as the permanent settlement of an elite and a central space for a disparate community, that we should find larger structures and more nuanced evidence for settlement hierarchies if they exist. This paper aims to collate the settlement evidence within Irish hillforts and other unenclosed upland settlements, integrating this within the broader narrative of the contemporary settlement pattern. It is argued that a clear hierarchy of settlement is apparent at some of the densely settled Irish hillforts, and that these formed central spaces for a disparate community where architecture formed the main arena for the display of status and group identity.
Randomized controlled trial for anesthesia during gastroscopy: interactions between remimazolam and propofol in combination with sufentanil
Authors: Lyu Song , Deng Qingchung , Lin Weixin , Wu Xiaofang
Published: April 2023

Background

Remimazolam is a new short-duration anesthetic currently used for gastroscopy and can be mixed with propofol and potent opioids.

Aim

The study aimed to investigate the synergistic interaction between remimazolam and propofol after sufentanil administration and to determine the appropriate dose ratios between remimazolam and propofol.

Method

This study used a randomized controlled design. Patients scheduled for gastrointestinal endoscopy were included and randomized into five groups. The randomized block design was applied at a randomization ratio of 1:1. Patients in each group received sufentanil (0.1 μg/kg) and the calculated doses of remimazolam and propofol. Using the up and down method, the median effective dose (ED50) and the 95% confidence interval (CI) were determined based on whether the eyelash reflex disappeared in each treatment group. Isobolographic analysis was used to analyze the presence of drug interactions. The interaction coefficient and the dose ratio between remimazolam and propofol were calculated by algebraic analysis. Statistical analysis was performed using interval estimates and 95% CI for statistical attributes.

Results

Cross-sectional analysis of the isobologram showed a clinically significant synergistic effect between remimazolam and propofol. When 0.016, 0.032, and 0.047 mg/kg of remimazolam were combined with 0.477, 0.221, and 0.131 mg/kg of propofol, the interaction coefficients were 1.04, 1.21, and 1.06, respectively. The dose ratio of remimazolam to propofol was approximately 1:7.

Conclusion

Remimazolam and propofol have synergistic clinical effects. A strong synergistic effect was observed when the remimazolam and propofol dose ratio was 1:7 (mg/kg).

Clinical trial

The study protocol was registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2100052425).
Crosstalk between P2Y receptors and cyclooxygenase activity in inflammation and tissue repair
Authors: Povo-Retana Adrián , Sánchez-García Sergio , Alvarez-Lucena Carlota , Landauro-Vera Rodrigo , Prieto Patricia , Delgado Carmen , Martín-Sanz Paloma , Boscá Lisardo
Published: April 2023

The role of extracellular nucleotides as modulators of inflammation and cell stress is well established. One of the main actions of these molecules is mediated by the activation of purinergic receptors (P2) of the plasma membrane. P2 receptors can be classified according to two different structural families: P2X ionotropic ion channel receptors, and P2Y metabotropic G protein-coupled receptors. During inflammation, damaged cells release nucleotides and purinergic signaling occurs along the temporal pattern of the synthesis of pro-inflammatory and pro-resolving mediators by myeloid and lymphoid cells. In macrophages under pro-inflammatory conditions, the expression and activity of cyclooxygenase 2 significantly increases and enhances the circulating levels of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), which exerts its effects both through specific plasma membrane receptors (EP1-EP4) and by activation of intracellular targets. Here we review the mechanisms involved in the crosstalk between PGE2 and P2Y receptors on macrophages, which is dependent on several isoforms of protein kinase C and protein kinase D1. Due to this crosstalk, a P2Y-dependent increase in calcium is blunted by PGE2 whereas, under these conditions, macrophages exhibit reduced migratory capacity along with enhanced phagocytosis, which contributes to the modulation of the inflammatory response and tissue repair.
Influence of different durations of lower limb static stretching on the performance of long jump athletes: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Rêma Sofia , Seixas Adérito , Moreira-Silvam Isabel , Cardoso Ricardo , Ventura Nuno , Azevedo Joana
Published: April 2023

Purpose

To evaluate the influence of different durations of lower limb static stretching (SS) on the performance of long jump (LJ) athletes.

Methods

A crossover randomized controlled trial was conducted with 20 athletes, submitted to 4 conditions: 3 experimental conditions, performing the usual warm-up plus SS of quadriceps, hamstrings, gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior during 30 s, 1 min or 3 min; and a control condition, of only the usual warm-up. LJ performance was assessed before and immediately after the interventions/control.

Results

There was a significant change after the 3 min SS, with an improvement in the distance achieved (p = 0.012). However, there were no differences between the 4 conditions (p = 0.154).

Conclusion

Results suggest that SS performed for 30 s, 1 min or 3 min, seem not to influence the LJ performance, since despite an improvement in the distance reached after the 3 min SS, there were no significant differences between conditions.
Digitale Führungskommunikation und organisationale Bindung von Beschäftigten im Homeoffice
Authors: Ilter Yasemin , Barth-Farkas Faye , Ringeisen Tobias
Published: April 2023

Der vorliegende Beitrag der Zeitschrift Gruppe. Interaktion. Organisation. (GIO) untersucht, welche Barrieren die Kommunikation zwischen Führungskräften und ihren Mitarbeitenden im Homeoffice behindern und wie die digitale Führungskommunikation gestaltet werden kann, um das Zugehörigkeitsgefühl von Beschäftigten zum Arbeitgeber zu stärken. Es werden Barrieren und sozial-motivationale Auswirkungen einer digitalen Führungskommunikation im Homeoffice identifiziert und passende Gestaltungsansätze abgeleitet. Verringerte Kontaktmöglichkeiten im Arbeitsalltag, eine erschwerte Emotionswahrnehmung und eingeschränktes Feedback steigern bei digitaler Kommunikation das Risiko einer geschwächten Mitarbeiterbindung, die wiederum mit erhöhter Unzufriedenheit, sinkender Motivation und verringerter Arbeitsleistung der Mitarbeitenden zusammenhängt. Mit Hilfe der Media-Richness-Theorie werden mögliche Kommunikationstools im Überblick vorgestellt, um herauszuarbeiten, welche Medien für welchen Kommunikationszweck im Führungsalltag Anwendung finden können, um die beschriebenen Herausforderungen der digitalen Führungskommunikation zu überwinden. Die Übermittlung von nonverbalen Kommunikationssignalen über Videotools ermöglicht es, Emotionen besser zu transportieren, Nähe einfacher herzustellen und Bindung leichter aufrechtzuerhalten. Eine angemessene Medienwahl hilft der Führungskraft somit, regelmäßigen Kontakt zu Mitarbeitenden zu halten, besser bindungsförderliches Feedback zu geben und eine genauere Wahrnehmung bindungsrelevanter Emotionen zu gewährleisten. Weiterhin ist sinnvoll, die Selbstführung und das Verantwortungsbewusstsein der Beschäftigten im Homeoffice zu stärken. Eine Realisierung der vorgestellten Ansätze sollte durch eine Aufklärung der Mitarbeitenden zu veränderten Prozessen und Rollen im Rahmen einer digitalisierten Führungskommunikation begleitet werden. Zusammenfassend lässt sich eine beziehungsorientierte Führung durch den Einsatz passender Medien auch bei Homeofficetätigkeit der Beschäftigten so gestalten, dass die Mitarbeiterbindung aufrechterhalten und Negativeffekten wie Isolation, sinkender Arbeitsmotivation und verringerter Arbeitsleistung entgegengewirkt wird.
No Zeitenwende (yet): Early Assessment of German Public Opinion Toward Foreign and Defense Policy After Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine
Authors: Mader Matthias , Schoen Harald
Published: April 2023

This paper addresses the question of whether Russia’s invasion of Ukraine led to a turning point (Zeitenwende) in public opinion on foreign and defense policy in Germany. To this end, we provide a theoretical analysis of how the concept of turning point can be applied to public opinion. We identify the durability of the change in attitudes as well as its significance as necessary conditions to speak of a turning point. In the remainder of the paper, we focus on the argument that changes in different types of orientations are significant to different degrees. Change in core postures is more significant than change in policy attitudes; change in attitudes thematically distant from the Russian invasion is more significant than change in attitudes directly related to the event. Empirically, we present a panel data analysis of attitude change triggered by the Russian invasion. Analysis of data from several waves of the German Longitudinal Election Study (GLES) panel survey collected before the invasion (2017–2021) and in two waves after (May and October 2022) shows that there were sizable shifts in policy attitudes directly related to the event. Postures remained essentially unchanged, as did thematically distant attitudes. We conclude that there has been no turning point at the level of public opinion (yet).
Reasoning by analogy and the transdisciplinarian’s circle: on the problem of knowledge transfer across cases in transdisciplinary research
Authors: Eigi-Watkin Jaana , Koskinen Inkeri
Published: April 2023

In their 2018 paper, Carolina Adler, Gertrude Hirsch Hadorn, Thomas Breu, Urs Wiesmann, and Christian Pohl propose that transferability of knowledge across cases in transdisciplinary research should be thought of in terms of arguments by analogy. We aim to advance this discussion about transferability by examining it in the light of recent ideas about knowledge transfer, extrapolation, and external validity in the philosophy of science. We problematise Adler et al.’s proposal by identifying the ‘transdisciplinarian’s circle’, due to which even knowledge that could be of use in other projects may be identified too late for efficient knowledge transfer to take place. We then suggest that Steel’s ideas on overcoming the ‘extrapolator’s circle’ can serve as a source of inspiration for addressing the issue of the transdisciplinarian’s circle.
Restrictive deterrence in Hong Kong drug dealing: exploring a framework of certainty reduction – severity mitigation
Authors: So Chi Keung , Guan Xin , Lo T. Wing
Published: April 2023

Using a framework of certainty reduction – severity mitigation, the paper examines how drug dealers in Hong Kong adopted restrictive deterrence strategies to reduce the certainty, and mitigate the severity, of punishment. It examines seven concrete techniques, including camouflage in public places, picking a safe time and position, counter-reconnaissance, choosing a less severe activity, stashing the product, passing risk, and cooperating with the police. We found that the techniques used by drug dealers correspond well to this framework, but that high-level dealers make more use of severity mitigation strategies while low-level dealers use certainty reduction strategies more. Moreover, the restrictive deterrence strategy is transferred through dual paths in which trust plays a role among dealers with a triad background.
Psychometric Properties of the Chinese Version of the Highly Sensitive Child Scale Across Age Groups, Gender, and Informants
Authors: Liu Danni , van Dijk Anouk , Lin Shanyan , Wang Zhenhong , Deković Maja , Dubas Judith Semon
Published: April 2023

Sensory Processing Sensitivity (SPS) is theorized to be a fundamental trait capturing children’s general sensitivity to the environment. Yet, scientific knowledge of SPS is mostly based on findings from Western cultures and few translated measures exist to assess children’s SPS outside of Western countries. Therefore, we developed the Chinese Highly Sensitive Child (HSC) scale. In Study 1, we investigated the scale’s psychometric properties for both self-reports (N = 2925, Mage = 11.74 years, 43.3% girls) and caregiver reports (n = 460, Mchild age = 9.02 years, 44.0% girls). Findings replicated most psychometric properties found in international studies including: (a) a bifactor structure with one general sensitivity component and three specific components, (b) acceptable internal consistency of the total scale (although not for self-report of elementary school children, and not for the subscales), and (c) at least partial invariance across age groups, gender, and informants. In Study 2, we investigated convergent validity with related temperament and personality measures using self-reports from both elementary school children (n = 845, Mage = 9.71 years, 41.9% girls) and middle school children (n = 563, Mage = 13.17 years, 43.2% girls). Findings replicated bivariate associations found in Western studies: Ease of Excitation (EOE) was associated with more positive traits, whereas Aesthetic Sensitivity (AES) was associated with more negative traits, suggesting that EOE and AES may capture the “dark” and “bright side” of sensitivity, respectively. We hope that our studies help spur research on SPS across western and Chinese cultures.
Spatiotemporal Distribution Patterns of the Sea Cucumber Holothuria arguinensis on a Rocky-Reef Coast (Northeast Atlantic)
Authors: Azevedo e Silva F. , Brito A. C. , Pombo A. , Simões T. , Marques T. A. , Rocha C. , Madruga A. S. , Sousa J. , Venâncio E. , Félix P. M.
Published: April 2023

The demand for sea cucumbers from the NE-Atlantic is increasing as a consequence of the depletion of stocks that historically supplied Asian markets. Some species from the NE-Atlantic are already showing overfishing signs due to either inefficient policies or their total absence, and they do not offer any margins of sustainability to sea cucumber fisheries. The current lack of knowledge of biological and ecological traits has led to ineffective protection of those species. Holothuria arguinensis is a good example of a temperate sea cucumber species suffering from the effects of unregulated and illegal harvest. This study aims to determine the temporal and spatial distribution patterns of H. arguinensis, assessing density and size-class structure in a NE-Atlantic population, in SW Portugal, as a function of environmental conditions. Sampling was done every 1.5 months at 6 stations defined according to habitat heterogeneity, following the coastline from the mouth of the Sado estuary to marine coastal areas. At each station, there were two habitats (rocky substrate and sandy areas) sampled through SCUBA diving along 30-m random transects, each with three replicates. Individuals were counted and measured (total length) and individual behavioural parameters, such as sheltering and settlement surface, were recorded. Water column parameters, sediment composition, and substrate cover were also recorded. Generalised Linear Models were fit to the data, modelling density and size distribution of the species with respect to environmental conditions. The results indicate that the distribution of H. arguinensis was mainly determined by its ability to deal with physical environmental stressors (current), rather than the chemical properties of the water column or sediment composition. The hydrodynamic features of the region exert the greatest impact on this species’ distribution and help shape habitat usage by different size class groups.
Development and in Vitro/In Vivo Evaluation of Itopride Hydrochloride Expanding Tablets
Authors: Ahmed Walaa , El-Gogary Riham I. , Nasr Maha , Sammour Omaima A.
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Gastroretentive drug delivery systems (GRDDS) have attracted interest for enhancement of absorption and bioavailability of some drugs. Itopride hydrochloride (ITOP) is a drug used for treatment of gastroesophageal reflux and other gastric motility disorders, but is characterized by narrow absorption window and short in vivo half-life. Therefore, it is expected that its formulation in expanding gastroretentive tablets would increase its gastric residence, thus leading to decreased frequency of administration and increased patient compliance.

Methods

The direct compression method was used for formulation of tablets. Four different hydrophilic polymers (xanthan gum, sodium alginate, gellan gum, pectin) were screened separately with Avicel 102 and PVP k30 as excipients. The effect of different factors (polymer type and amount, and excipient amount) on the tablet properties such as hardness, friability, thickness, diameter, weight variation, swelling, and in vitro drug dissolution was studied. In addition, swelling test, accelerated stability test, and in vivo study were performed on the optimized formulation.

Results

Tablets prepared using xanthan gum exhibited favorable properties compared to tablets prepared using the other gums, however increasing the polymer amount led to increased tablet friability. The selected formulation exhibited obvious expansion reaching 17.45 mm and lasting for 24 h, coupled with a sustained release behavior. X-ray scans in human volunteers suggested the residence of the tablet in the stomach for a period of 6 h in fed state.

Conclusion

Successful preparation of directly compressible ITOP expanding tablets was achieved in this study, which is expected to result in better therapeutic outcome in gastroesophageal reflux.
Use of Animal Models for Investigating Cardioprotective Roles of SGLT2 Inhibitors
Authors: Al Thani Najlaa A. , Hasan Maram , Yalcin Huseyin C.
Published: April 2023

Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors represent one type of new-generation type 2 diabetes (T2DM) drug treatment. The mechanism of action of an SGLT2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) in treating T2DM depends on lowering blood glucose levels effectively via increasing the glomerular excretion of glucose. A good number of randomized clinical trials revealed that SGLT2is significantly prevented heart failure (HF) and cardiovascular death in T2DM patients. Despite ongoing clinical trials in HF patients without T2DM, there have been a limited number of translational studies on the cardioprotective properties of SGLT2is. As the cellular mechanism behind the cardiac benefits of SGLT2is is still to be elucidated, animal models are used to better understand the pathways behind the cardioprotective mechanism of SGLT2i. In this review, we summarize the animal models constructed to study the cardioprotective mechanisms of SGLT2is to help deliver a more comprehensive understanding of the in vivo work that has been done in this field and to help select the most optimal animal model to use when studying the different cardioprotective effects of SGLT2is.

Graphical Abstract
Isotopic sourcing reveals changing subsistence, cultural diversity and biological correlates with palaeodiet in fourth- to seventh-century AD Bavaria
Authors: Sebald Sidney V. , Grupe Gisela , Hakenbeck Susanne
Published: April 2023

Stable carbon and nitrogen isotopic ratios (δ13C, δ15N) in bone collagen of archaeological skeletal finds are indicators of the protein sources in individuals’ basic diet. Isotopic sourcing allows us to quantify the biomass contribution of major dietary components and to differentiate between the source contribution of various animal species (domesticates, game). We re-evaluated previously published isotopic signatures in skeletons from three burial sites in Bavaria, dated from Late Antiquity to Early Mediaeval times (Erding-Klettham, Erding-Altenerding, Straubing-Bajuwarenstraße) by use of a mixing model. The result is a more detailed reconstruction, supported by contextual evidence, of both early subsistence economies and individual dietary preferences. We were able to confirm relationships between non-local dietary behaviour and foreign cultural influences (grave goods and artificial cranial modification) that have previously been suggested by the burial context and DNA analyses and that are plausibly explained by migration events. Moreover, we differentiated early and late immigrants from each other, requiring a re-evaluation of the earlier interpretation of exogamy. In addition, individual dietary preferences indicate even more migration events and social stratifications that could not previously be identified by the archaeological evidence alone.
Validation of Electrothermal Vaporization for the Analysis of Biomass Samples and Comparison with Other Methods of Analysis
Authors: Mörtenkötter Hendrik , Grünwald Dominik , Fendt Sebastian , Spliethoff Hartmut
Published: April 2023

The analysis of the chemical composition of biomass plays an important role in all steps of the life cycle of biomass, especially in thermal conversion processes. Electrothermal vaporization (ETV) coupled with inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) is a promising approach for biomass analysis as almost no sample preparation is required, samples can be analysed quickly, and the release of elements from the sample can potentially be quantified with temperature resolution. In this work, the concentration of seven important side and trace elements is determined in beechwood, torrefied wood, wheat straw, miscanthus, and spruce bark. For comparison and validation of the ETV setup, four additional methods of analysis are applied to determine the elemental concentration. Chemical fractionation analysis (CFA) is conducted to investigate the chemical association form. In addition, microwave pressure digestion is carried out with two different acid solutions (HNO3 and HBF4). X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis is performed to determine the ash composition of all samples. The spread between most of the results of the different measurement techniques is with less than 20 % well within the expected range for heterogeneous biomass samples. Large deviations, such as the sulphur concentration in the XRF analysis, can be explained by the method used. The ETV results are in very good agreement with the CFA and microwave pressure digestion results. As these methods are well established, ETV analysis has proven to be suitable for the analysis of side and trace elements in biomass.

Graphical Abstract
Validation of the Comprehensive Inventory of Mindfulness Experiences (CHIME) in English Using Rasch Methodology
Authors: Wilkinson Samuel , Ribeiro Leticia , Krägeloh Christian U. , Bergomi Claudia , Parsons Marie , Siegling Alex , Tschacher Wolfgang , Kupper Zeno , Medvedev Oleg N.
Published: April 2023

Objectives

Although mindfulness has been studied for multiple decades, psychometric research has yet to agree upon the optimal way to measure the mindfulness construct. Prior research has identified eight distinct aspects of mindfulness that were not adequately captured by any of the available measures. Hence, the Comprehensive Inventory of Mindfulness Experiences (CHIME) was developed. The CHIME contains 37 items and was originally developed in the German language. The CHIME has demonstrated excellent psychometric properties in both German and Dutch, but so far, no English version has been validated. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the psychometric characteristics of the translated English-language CHIME scale using Rasch methodology.

Method

The current study utilized Partial Credit Rasch analysis to evaluate the psychometric characteristics of the English CHIME. The sample included responses from 620 participants from the general population residing in the USA. The validity of the English CHIME was examined by correlating its scores with various measures of mindfulness and psychological functioning.

Results

Initial Rasch analysis of the English CHIME showed poor model fit, local dependency, and evidence against the assumption of unidimensionality. Several minor modifications, that involved creating super-items, were required to fit the Rasch model (χ2(45)=31.99, p=0.93). This model displayed evidence of unidimensionality, invariance across personal factors, and a high reliability (PSI=0.92). Ordinal-interval transformation tables were produced, which increase the English CHIME’s precision of measurement. The English CHIME’s external validity was established by moderate–high correlations with other measures of mindfulness and various measures of psychological functioning.

Conclusions

The results of this study provide evidence for the validity of the English CHIME scale, which can be used to assess the overarching construct of mindfulness.
Reconciling East-African Wetland Conservation with Human Needs: Managing Uncertainties in Environmental Policy Design
Authors: Langensiepen Matthias , Opiyo Erick Omwandho , Kaudia Alice A. , Rugege Denis , Richard Kyambadde , Akotsi Erick , Ashitiva Dan , Ningu Julius K. , Munyazikwiye Faustin , Ngaboyamahina Theogene , Urassa Justin K. , Ugen Michael , Sebashongore Dieudonné , Oyieke Helida , Misana Salome , Kammesheidt Ludwig , Becker Mathias
Published: April 2023

Rapidly developing societies in East-Africa impose increasing pressures on wetlands due to rising food demand and degradation of upland soils. Reconciling wetland conservation with human needs for food and energy is therefore becoming an increasing contentious issue. Stakeholders and actor coalitions generate and apply a great variety of meanings, values, and interests when interacting with wetlands which are hardly predictable. Wetland policy-making is hence fraught with uncertainties which need to be managed for finding solutions to this problem. Based on experiences of a collaborative wetland research in East-Africa we developed a new wetland policy process framework which promotes social deliberation and reconciliation of plural wetland values to reduce these uncertainties. A new cognitive-driven information design (CDID) method has been developed to assist wetland policy-analysts in achieving these aims and also to overcome limitations of prescriptive decision-making. The method employs information and communication technologies to analyze, integrate and visualize complex socio-ecological wetland information for developing policy scenarios. It is applied at all stages of the wetland policy process including agenda setting, identification of plural wetland values, establishment of decision-scenarios, social deliberation during policy formulation, governmental decision-taking, policy implementation and evaluation. A three-stage implementation process is recommended.
Cervical Cancer Knowledge and Screening Patterns in Zuni Pueblo Women in the Southwest United States
Authors: Cartwright Kate , Kosich Mikaela , Gonya Madison , Kanda Deborah , Leekity Samantha , Sheche Judith , Edwardson Nicholas , Pankratz V. Shane , Mishra Shiraz I.
Published: April 2023

American Indian women experience cervical cancer disparities, including later-stage diagnosis and a higher cervical cancer mortality rate. These disparities are interconnected and linked to cervical cancer screening disparities. Cervical cancer when identified early is highly treatable. Individual- and health system-level factors often contribute to gaps in cervical cancer screening. To better understand the source of these inequities experienced by American Indian women, specifically Zuni women, this paper examines how knowledge about cervical cancer and related risk factors is linked to cervical cancer screening for Zuni women using primary data gathered by the Zuni Health Initiative in 2020 and 2021. We find that of the women who completed the survey (n= 171), women with greater cervical cancer knowledge are statistically significantly more likely to have received cervical cancer screening. Closer examination of knowledge on the specific risk factors for cervical cancer provides evidence upon which to develop a cervical cancer education intervention.
Uncarialines A-E, new alkaloids from Uncaria rhynchophylla and their anticoagulant activity
Authors: Huang Ke-Pu , Xu Li-Li , Li Sheng , Wei Yin-Ling , Yang Lian , Hao Xiao-Jiang , He Hong-Ping , Zhang Yu
Published: April 2023

Uncarialines A-E (1–5), five undescribed monoterpene indole alkaloids, together with five known analogues were obtained from the stems of Uncaria rhynchophylla. Alkaloids 1–3 were unique 3,4-seco-tricyclic alkaloids with a 6/5/10 ring system, while 4 and 5 possessed a rare rearranged scaffold originated from corynantheine-type alkaloids with C-2/C-7 oxidation. Their structures were characterized by a comprehensive analysis of MS, NMR, and ECD. Their effects on blood clotting times of human plasma were evaluated and alkaloid 5 had a slight prolongation effect on both thrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time (p < 0.001).

Graphical Abstract
CMAS deposition rate and sequence effects on cyclic life in gradient testing
Authors: Jun Byung-gun , Jonsson Nils , Jordan Eric H. , Cooper Ryan C.
Published: April 2023

Thermal barrier coating (TBC) resistance to varied CMAS deposition rates was experimentally assessed using a temperature gradient rig using a CMAS precursor spray. TBCs were composed of EB-PVD YSZ. Five different deposition rates were tested quantifying life versus deposition rate. A high deposition rate and low deposition rate were selected from those tests for sequence testing. For sequence effect testing CMAS deposition occurred at the initial rate until the expected half-life and then switched to the other rate until failure, in the order of high deposition rate first followed by low deposition rate and vice versa. The results suggest that the order of deposition rates can affect ultimate failure behavior. Specifically applying the CMAS at the low deposition rate extended the life of the sample by a nearly a factor of 2 compared to a virgin sample. At the high deposition rate, the CMAS infiltrated all the way to the bond coat past the estimated freeze line. Data showing the coating life versus CMAS deposition rate and the existence of sequence effects in CMAS dosing are fundamentally important to coating life prediction.
Fairness as adequacy: a sociotechnical view on model evaluation in machine learning
Authors: Grote Thomas
Published: April 2023

This paper develops an account of model evaluation—with an emphasis on fairness concerns—that takes the social situatedness of ML models as its starting point. Such a view entails that ML models are not deemed isolated entities, but rather tools, used for specific purposes and potentially impacting their social environment in manifold ways. This shift of perspective opens up a new problem space and facilitates rethinking criteria for model evaluation. By drawing on the adequacy-for-purpose view in philosophy of science, epistemic norms and desiderata for an adequate deployment of ML models along the dimensions of Social Objectives, Measurement, Social Dynamics, and interaction are then identified. The account thus developed also highlights why any auditing of ML models that ought to assist in consequential decision-making cannot be limited to an assessment of statistical properties, but needs to incorporate a variety of methods from the social sciences instead. Moreover, while the process of model evaluation might be deemed as a mere technical exercise, it is in fact riddled by epistemic and morally normative considerations.