bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relevance and equity: should stoichiometry be the foundation of introductory chemistry courses?
Authors: Rosa Vanessa , States Nicole E. , Corrales Adriana , Nguyen Yvonne , Atkinson Molly B.
Published: April 2022

Emphasizing stoichiometry appears to be a norm of introductory chemistry courses. In this longitudinal and mixed-methods study, we examined how the emphasis on stoichiometry in assessments of introductory chemistry impacted educational equity and student learning. Using quantitative methods, we identified mole and stoichiometric conversions as two of the most frequently assessed and inequitable competencies, perpetuating systemic inequities in access to pre-college mathematics preparation. Above all other competencies, midterm assessments of stoichiometry were the most impactful as the strongest predictor of students’ scores on both the first and second-semester introductory chemistry final exam. These results informed the development of a think-aloud protocol used to describe how students approached assessments of stoichiometry. Students described stoichiometry as a step-by-step series of calculations, rarely associating this algorithm with the process of a chemical reaction by which reactants break bonds and rearrange to form products. Student responses suggest stoichiometry substitutes learning how to apply chemistry to think about the problems scientists solve for memorizing algorithms to solve math problems in the context of chemistry. Shifting the foundation of introductory chemistry courses from algorithmic to applied competencies reflects scientific practice and maybe one strategy for educators to disrupt systemic barriers to access and retention in STEM Education. Based on these findings and the advancements of other research, we offer implications for supporting educators as they iteratively develop increasingly relevant and equitable assessments of introductory chemistry.
Facet-dependent adsorption of aluminum(iii) on hematite nanocrystals and the influence on mineral transformation
Authors: Wang Wentao , Zhang Wenjun , Fan Yuke , Qu Chenchen , Ren Wenyan , Huang Xiaopeng , Hong Mei , Liu Fan , Yin Hui
Published: April 2022

Enrichment of aluminum(iii) in hematite with different crystal faces.
Direct, four-step synthetic pathway to iheyamine A and several analogues
Authors: Wei Wenfei , Xiang Dinglei , Liu Sheng
Published: April 2022

A novel approach to deliver iheyamine A via a short reaction sequence, featuring improved convergent character and operational simplicity, has been developed.
Flux and spectral variability of Mrk 421 during its moderate activity state usingNuSTAR: Possible accretion disc contribution?
Authors: Mondal S. , Rani P. , Stalin C. S. , Chakrabarti S. K. , Rakshit S.
Published: April 2022

Context.The X-ray emission in BL Lac objects is believed to be dominated by synchrotron emission from their relativistic jets. However, when the jet emission is not strong, one could expect signatures of X-ray emission from inverse Compton scattering of accretion disc photons by hot and energetic electrons in the corona. Moreover, the observed X-ray variability can also originate in the disc, and get propagated and amplified by the jet.

Aims.Here, we present results on the BL Lac object Mrk 421 using the Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array data acquired during 2017 when the source was in a moderate X-ray brightness state. For comparison with high jet activity state, we also considered one epoch of data in April 2013 when the source was in a very high X-ray brightness state. Our aim is to explore the possibility of the signature of accretion disc emission in the overall X-ray emission from Mrk 421 and also examine changes in accretion parameters considering their contribution to spectral variations.

Methods.We divided each epoch of data into different segments in order to find small-scale variability. Data for all segments were fitted using a simple power-law model. We also fitted the full epoch data using the two component advective flow (TCAF) model to extract the accretion flow parameters. Furthermore, we estimated the X-ray flux coming from the different components of the flow using the lowest normalisation method and analysed the relations between them. For consistency, we performed the spectral analysis using models available in the literature.

Results.The simple power-law function does not fit the spectra well, and a cutoff needs to be added. The spectral fitting of the data using the TCAF model shows that the data can be explained with a model where (a) the size of the dynamic corona at the base of the jet is from ∼28 to 10 rs, (b) the disc mass accretion rate is from 0.021 to 0.051ṀEdd, (c) the halo mass accretion rate is from 0.22 to 0.35ṀEdd, and (d) the viscosity parameter of the Keplerian accretion disc from 0.18 to 0.25. In the assumed model, the total flux, disc and jet flux correlate with the radio flux observed during these epochs.

Conclusions.From the spectral analysis, we conclude that the spectra of all the epochs of Mrk 421 in 2017 are well described by the accretion-disc-based TCAF model. The estimated disc and jet flux relations with radio flux show that accretion disc can contribute to the observed X-ray emission, when X-ray data (that cover a small portion of the broad band spectral energy distribution of Mrk 421) are considered in isolation. However, the present disc-based models are disfavoured with respect to the relativistic jet models when considering the X-ray data in conjunction with data at other wavelengths.
Variable mass accretion and failed wind explain changing-look phenomena in NGC 1365
Authors: Mondal S. , Adhikari T. P. , Hryniewicz K. , Stalin C. S. , Pandey A.
Published: April 2022

Changing-look active galactic nuclei (CLAGNs) show a complex nature in their X-ray spectral shape and line-of-sight column-density variation. The physical mechanisms responsible for these variations are unclear. Here, we study the spectral properties of a CLAGN, NGC 1365 using combined XMM-Newton and NuSTAR observations to understand the CL behavior. The model-fitted mass-accretion rate varied between 0.003 ± 0.001 and 0.009 ± 0.002 ṀEdd and the dynamic corona changed from 28 ± 3 to 10 ± 1 rg. We found that the variable absorption column density correlates with the mass accretion rate and the geometry of the corona. The derived wind velocity was sufficiently low compared to the escape velocity to drive the wind away from the disc for the epochs during which column densities were high. This suggests that the high and variable absorption can be due to failed winds from the disc. Our estimated ratio of mass outflow to inflow rate from the inner region of the disc lies between 0.019 ± 0.006 and 0.12 ± 0.04. From spectral fitting of the combined data, we found the mass of the central black hole to be constant 4.38 ± 0.34−4.51 ± 0.29 × 106 M⊙, consistent with earlier findings. The confidence contours of NH with other model parameters show that the model-fitted parameters are robust and non-degenerate. Our study construed that the changing accretion rate, which is a fundamental physical quantity and the geometry of the corona are driving the CL phenomena in NGC 1365. The physical picture considered in this work connects both variable continuum and variable absorbing medium scenarios.
Precision measurement of a brown dwarf mass in a binary system in the microlensing event
Authors: Herald A. , Udalski A. , Bozza V. , Rota P. , Bond I. A. , Yee J. C. , Sajadian S. , Mróz P. , Poleski R. , Skowron J. , Szymański M. K. , Soszyński I. , Pietrukowicz P. , Kozłowski S. , Ulaczyk K. , Rybicki K. A. , Iwanek P. , Wrona M. , Gromadzki M. ,   (The OGLE collaboration), Abe F. , Barry R. , Bennett D. P. , Bhattacharya A. , Fukui A. , Fujii H. , Hirao Y. , Itow Y. , Kirikawa R. , Kondo I. , Koshimoto N. , Matsubara Y. , Matsumoto S. , Miyazaki S. , Muraki Y. , Olmschenk G. , Ranc C. , Okamura A. , Rattenbury N. J. , Satoh Y. , Sumi T. , Suzuki D. , Silva S. Ishitani , Toda T. , Tristram P. J. , Vandorou A. , Yama H. ,   (The MOA collaboration), Beichman C. A. , Bryden G. , Novati S. Calchi , Carey S. , Gaudi B. S. , Gould A. , Henderson C. B. , Johnson S. , Shvartzvald Y. , Zhu W. ,   (The Spitzer team), Dominik M. , Hundertmark M. , Jørgensen U. G. , Longa-Peña P. , Skottfelt J. , Tregloan-Reed J. , Bach-Møller N. , Burgdorf M. , D’Ago G. , Haikala L. , Hitchcock J. , Khalouei E. , Peixinho N. , Rahvar S. , Snodgrass C. , Southworth J. , Spyratos P. ,   (The MiNDSTEp consortium), Zang W. , Yang H. , Mao S. , Bachelet E. , Maoz D. , Street R. A. , Tsapras Y. , Christie G. W. , Cooper T. , de Almeida L. , do Nascimento J.-D. , Green J. , Han C. , Hennerley S. , Marmont A. , McCormick J. , Monard L. A. G. , Natusch T. , Pogge R. ,   (The LCO & μFUN collaboration)
Published: April 2022

Context. Brown dwarfs are transition objects between stars and planets that are still poorly understood, for which several competing mechanisms have been proposed to describe their formation. Mass measurements are generally difficult to carry out for isolated objects as well as for brown dwarfs orbiting low-mass stars, which are often too faint for a spectroscopic follow-up.

Aims. Microlensing provides an alternative tool for the discovery and investigation of such faint systems. Here, we present an analysis of the microlensing event OGLE-2019-BLG-0033/MOA-2019-BLG-035, which is caused by a binary system composed of a brown dwarf orbiting a red dwarf.

Methods. Thanks to extensive ground observations and the availability of space observations from Spitzer, it has been possible to obtain accurate estimates of all microlensing parameters, including the parallax, source radius, and orbital motion of the binary lens.

Results. Following an accurate modeling process, we found that the lens is composed of a red dwarf with a mass of M1 = 0.149 ± 0.010 M⊙ and a brown dwarf with a mass of M2 = 0.0463 ± 0.0031 M⊙ at a projected separation of a⊥ = 0.585 au. The system has a peculiar velocity that is typical of old metal-poor populations in the thick disk. A percent-level precision in the mass measurement of brown dwarfs has been achieved only in a few microlensing events up to now, but will likely become more common in the future thanks to the Roman space telescope.
A counterexample to analyticity in frictional dynamics
Authors: Dance Christopher R.
Published: April 2022

We consider the motion of a particle acted on by dry friction and a force that is an analytic function of time. We give a counterexample to the claim that such motions are given by analytic functions of time. Several published arguments concerning existence and uniqueness in unilateral dynamics with friction rely on the analyticity of such motions. The counterexample invalidates those arguments for motions in three or more dimensions.
Diagnostische Reliabilität von optischen Kohärenztomografie-Biomarkern für postoperativen Erfolg bei idiopathischen epiretinalen Membranen
Authors: Leisser Christoph , Amon Daria Lilian , Huemer Josef Christian , Findl Oliver
Published: April 2022

Hintergrund Zahlreiche OCT-Biomarker (OCT: optische Kohärenztomografie) für postoperativen Erfolg bei Patientinnen und Patienten mit idiopathischen epiretinalen Membranen (iERM)
wurden in Einzelfaktoranalysen beschrieben. Das Ziel der Studie war es, die Reliabilität der Diagnose von OCT-Biomarkern zu berechnen und ihren Einfluss auf die postoperativen Resultate
mittels multipler Regressionsanalyse zu untersuchen.

Methoden In diese retrospektive Studie wurden Patientinnen und Patienten mit Pars-plana-Vitrektomie mit Membrane Peeling aufgrund einer iERM eingeschlossen. Präoperative OCTs wurden
bez. des Vorliegens von OCT-Biomarkern von 2 Reviewern untersucht. Die Intra- und Interobserver-Reliabilität wurde mit dem Kuder-Richardson-20-Test untersucht.

Resultate Es wurden 136 Patientinnen und Patienten in die Studie eingeschlossen. Die Intra- und Interobserver-Reliabilität betrug 0,89/0,70 für „ectopic inner foveal layer“ (EIFL),
0,82/0,53 für „disorganization of retinal inner layers“ (DRIL), 0,93/0,89 für intraretinale zystoide Veränderungen, 0,84/0,78 für Veränderungen der ellipsoiden Zone, 0,84/0,72 für das
„cotton ball sign“, 0,68/0,58 für hyperreflektive Foci, 0,55/0,47 für epimakuläre Risse der ERM (EMM-Rips), and 0,87/0,60 für retinale Kontraktion. Nur DRIL und die „central subfield macular
thickness“ (CMT) zeigten sich als signifikante Prädiktoren für den BCVA 3 Monate nach der Operation in einer multiplen Regressionsanalyse.

Schlussfolgerung Die Intraobserver-Reliabilität war im Vergleich zur Interobserver-Reliabilität höher, ein Unterschied, der auf die klinische Erfahrung und Erfahrung im Grading bez.
der Beurteilung von OCT-Biomarkern hinweist. DRIL und CMT waren signifikante Prädiktoren in einer multiplen Regressionsanalyse und haben das Potenzial, den postoperativen BCVA negativ zu
beeinflussen.
2-Jahres-Ergebnisse nach transskleraler MicroPulse-Lasertherapie bei Patienten mit primärem Offenwinkelglaukom
Authors: Waibel Sören , Herber Robert , Ramm Lisa , Jasper Carolin S. , Pillunat Lutz E. , Pillunat Karin R.
Published: April 2022

Hintergrund Untersuchung der langfristigen Effizienz und Sicherheit der transskleralen Lasertherapie (TLT) mittels MicroPulse über 24 Monate bei Patienten mit primärem
Offenwinkelglaukom (POWG).

Material und Methoden In dieser prospektiven interventionellen Fallserie wurden die Daten von 44 Augen von medikamentös behandelten POWG-Patienten ausgewertet, die eine
MicroPulse-TLT erhielten, um eine weitere Senkung des Augeninnendrucks (IOD) zu erreichen. Es wurden die Reduktion des 24-h-IODs, der zirkadianen IOD-Fluktuationen und der IOD-Spitzen nach
3, 12 und 24 Monaten untersucht. Zudem sollten postoperative Komplikationen, die Misserfolgsquote und Einflussfaktoren auf den Therapieerfolg analysiert werden.

Ergebnisse Der IOD ist von 16,1 ± 3,4 mmHg präoperativ auf 13,0 ± 2,9 mmHg (n = 31; p < 0,001) nach 3 Monaten, 12,3 ± 3,0 mmHg (n = 27; p < 0,001) nach 12 Monaten und
13,1 ± 2,6 mmHg (n = 23; p < 0,001) nach 24 Monaten gesunken. Nach 24 Monaten erreichten 23 Augen (52%) ihren individuellen Zieldruck. Es traten keine schwerwiegenden postoperativen
Komplikationen auf. Es konnten keine Einflussfaktoren auf den Therapieerfolg identifiziert werden. Das häufigste Therapieversagen war innerhalb der ersten 3 postoperativen Monate zu
beobachten und blieb danach nahezu stabil.

Schlussfolgerung Die MicroPulse-TLT zeigt eine gute IOD-Senkung bei Patienten mit primärem Offenwinkelglaukom und maximal tolerierter drucksenkender Lokaltherapie, wobei etwa 50% der
Augen ihren individuellen Zieldruck erreichten.
Anticonvulsant Effect of Minocycline on Pentylenetetrazole-Induced
Seizure in Mice: Involvement of 5-HT3 Receptor
Authors: Entezari Zahra , Jahanabadi Samane
Published: April 2022

Minocycline, widely used as an antibiotic, has recently been found to have an
anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective and anticonvulsant effects. This study was
aimed to investigate the anticonvulsant effect of acute administration of
minocycline on pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced seizures considering the
possible involvement of 5-HT3 receptor in this effect. For this
purpose, seizures were induced by intravenous PTZ infusion. All drugs were
administrated by intraperitoneal (i.p.) route before PTZ injection. Also,
1-(m-chlorophenyl)-biguanide (mCPBG, a 5-HT3 receptor agonist) and
Tropisetron (a 5-HT3 receptor antagonist) were used
45 minutes before minocycline treatment. Our results demonstrate that
acute minocycline treatment (80 and 120 mg/kg) increased the
seizure threshold. In addition, the 5-HT3 antagonist, tropisetron, at
doses that had no effect on seizure threshold, augmented the anticonvulsant
effect of minocycline (40 mg/kg), while mCPBG
(0.2 mg/kg) blunted the anticonvulsant effect of minocycline
(80 mg/kg). In conclusion, our findings revealed that the
anticonvulsant effect of minocycline is mediated, at least in part, by
inhibition of 5-HT3 receptor.
Vergütung der HPV-Impfungsleistung in Deutschland –
ein relevanter Einflussfaktor auf die HPV-Impfrate?
Authors: Ouédraogo Nobila , Schaller Katrin
Published: April 2022

Obwohl die HPV-Impfung seit 2007 in Deutschland empfohlen wird, sind die
Impfraten für abgeschlossene HPV-Impfserien bisher niedrig und es
bestehen deutliche regionale Unterschiede. Als einer der Faktoren, die die
HPV-Impfrate in Deutschland beeinflussen, wird die Vergütung der
Impfleistung diskutiert. Allerdings zeigen die Vergütungsdaten der
HPV-Impfung für Deutschland deutliche Unterschiede in der Höhe
und in der Art der Vergütung in Abhängigkeit von der
Kassenärztlichen Region, die nicht in einem offensichtlichen
Zusammenhang mit der regionalen Impfrate stehen. Dies lässt vermuten,
dass die Vergütung für die HPV-Impfrate derzeit keine
wesentliche Rolle spielt. Zur Erhöhung der HPV-Impfrate sollten daher
andere Maßnahmen, die dafür als wirksam erwiesen sind, im
Vordergrund stehen, wobei die Politik eine umfassende Herangehensweise durch
Gesetzgebung, die Schaffung struktureller Rahmenbedingungen sowie die
Bereitstellung von Ressourcen unterstützen sollte.
Intramolecular Propargylic Ene Reaction of Benzyne En Route to Highly Functionalized Allenes and Allenamides
Authors: Takasu Kiyosei , Takikawa Hiroshi , Tawatari Tsukasa , Kato Ritsuki
Published: April 2022

A variety of highly functionalized allenes and allenamides are prepared by intramolecular propargylic ene reactions of benzynes. Specific benzyne precursors having a chlorodiisopropylsilyl group serve as platforms to link with various propargyl alcohols via a Si–O bond, thereby expanding the scope of this reaction. Also demonstrated is a complete transmission of point to axial chirality to give a chiral, non-racemic allenamide.
Plasma Endogenous Endotoxin Core Antibody Response to Exercise in Endurance Athletes
Authors: Young Pascale , Rauch Christopher , Russo Isabella , Gaskell Stephanie , Davidson Zoe , Costa Ricardo J. S.
Published: April 2022

The study aimed to investigate the impact of laboratory-controlled exertional and exertional-heat stress on concentrations of plasma endogenous endotoxin core antibody (EndoCAb). Forty-four (males n=26 and females n=18) endurance trained (V̇ O 2max 56.8min/kg/min) participants completed either: P1–2h high intensity interval running in 23°C ambient temperature (Tamb), P2–2h running at 60% V̇ O2max in 35°C Tamb, or P3–3h running at 60% V̇ O2max in 23°C Tamb. Blood samples were collected pre- and post-exercise to determine plasma IgM, IgA, and IgG concentrations. Overall resting pre-exercise levels for plasma Ig were 173MMU/ml, 37AMU/ml, and 79GMU/ml, respectively. Plasma IgM concentration did not substantially change pre- to post-exercise in all protocols, and the magnitude of pre- to post-exercise change for IgM was not different between protocols (p=0.135). Plasma IgA and IgG increased pre- to post-exercise in P2 only (p=0.017 and p=0.016, respectively), but remained within normative range (35–250MU/ml). P2 resulted in greater disturbances to plasma IgA (p=0.058) and IgG (p=0.037), compared with P1 and P3. No substantial differences in pre-exercise and exercise-associated change was observed for EndoCAb between biological sexes. Exertional and exertional-heat stress resulted in modest disturbances to systemic EndoCAb responses, suggesting EndoCAb biomarkers presents a low sensitivity response to controlled-laboratory experimental designs within exercise gastroenterology.
Megestrol Acetate in the Treatment of Post COVID-19 Fatigue in a Patient of Advanced Cancer: A Case Report and Mini Review of Literature
Authors: Patil Chaitanya R , Dhamne Nilesh A , Tanawade Prasad K , Mestri Namrata B
Published: April 2022

Megestrol acetate is one of the pharmacological agents used for cancer-associated fatigue. To date, there are no studies on its use in the treatment of post-COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) fatigue. So, we report a case of metastatic carcinoma lung with a partial response with three cycles of palliative chemotherapy. He was contracted with mild COVID-19 infection post three cycles of his chemotherapy. Post this episode, fatigue was his main and most troublesome symptom. After a thorough clinical history, physical examination, and investigations, type 2 post-COVID-19 syndrome was diagnosed. After explaining the risks and benefits, we started the patient on low-dose megestrol acetate (160 mg/d per oral) with low to moderate benefits. However, upon increasing the dose to 480 mg/d, the benefit on the subjective quality of life was significant. Studies with a larger sample and randomized controlled trials have to be conducted to substantiate the hypothesis and actual effect of megestrol acetate in the treatment of post-COVID-19 fatigue.
Solution structures and ultrafast vibrational energy dissipation dynamics in cyclotetramethylene tetranitramine
Authors: Yang Fan , Shi Lu , Dong Tiantian , Yu Pengyun , Hu Rong , Wu Honglin , Yang Yanqiang , Wang Jianping
Published: April 2022

Steady-state and time-resolved infrared (IR) studies of cyclotetramethylene tetranitramine (HMX) were carried out, using the asymmetric nitro-stretch as probe, to investigate its solution structures and vibrational energy transfer processes in pure dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and in a DMSO/water mixture. A linear IR spectrum in the nitro-stretching mode region shows two major bands and one minor band in DMSO but changes to the two major bands mainly picture when adding water as an antisolvent of HMX, suggesting a transition from well-solvated and less perfect β-conformation to a less-solvated and close-to-perfect β-conformation. The latter bears a similar asymmetric nitro-stretch vibration profile to the β-polymorph in the crystal form. Density functional theory computations of the nitro-stretching vibrations suggest that HMX in DMSO may be in a NO2 group rotated β-conformation. Two-dimensional IR cross-peak intensity reveals intramolecular energy transfer between the axial and equatorial nitro-groups in the β-HMX on the ps time scale, which is slightly faster in the mixed solvent case. The importance of water as an antisolvent in influencing the equilibrium solvation structure, as well as the vibrational and orientational relaxation dynamics of HMX, is discussed.
Adequacy in Endocervical Curettage
Authors: Alqabbani Roa , Chan Joanna , Goldberg Allison
Published: April 2022

Objectives

Specimen adequacy is an important quality assurance component of a cervical Papanicolaou test. Although consensus exists on minimal acceptable cellularity for cervical Papanicolaou tests, no such criteria exist for endocervical curettage (ECC) specimens. We sought to identify minimum acceptable cellularity for accurate diagnosis of high-grade dysplasia (HGD) on ECC.

Methods

All patients with HGD diagnosed in a loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) from May 8, 2018, to December 18, 2019, and an ECC in the preceding 6 months at our institution were included (n = 51). All ECCs performed before the LEEP were evaluated for cellularity of squamous cells using Aperio eSlide Manager (Leica Biosystems). Biopsy results concurrent with the ECC were noted. We compared the number of squamous cells in positive and negative ECC specimens using a t-test. The proportion of ECC specimens and concurrent biopsies undergoing immunohistochemical (IHC) staining for p16 were compared using the χ2 test. P < .05 was considered significant.

Results

Endocervical curettage specimens positive for HGD have increased cellularity compared with negative ECC specimens (mean cellularity, 10,165 vs 1,055; P < .05). Further, IHC staining for p16 was more likely to be performed on an ECC specimen positive for HGD than on a negative ECC specimen (50% vs 3%; P < .05). Biopsies performed concurrently with a negative ECC finding were more likely to undergo p16 IHC than biopsies performed concurrently with a positive ECC finding (51% vs 7%; P < .05). Finally, we observed no difference in the proportion of biopsies undergoing IHC staining for p16 when comparing biopsies positive for HGD with negative biopsies (37% vs 46%; P = .33).

Conclusions

We find cellularity of approximately 10,000 cells adequate to diagnose HGD in an ECC specimen and cellularity of approximately 1,000 cells to be inadequate. Further, we find p16 IHC commonly used as a “rule-in” test on ECC specimens at our institution. Biopsies accompanying an ECC specimen negative for HGD are more likely to undergo p16 IHC than those accompanying an ECC specimen positive for HGD, but there is no difference in the proportion of biopsies undergoing p16 IHC when comparing positive and negative results in the biopsies themselves. These findings further support the need for adequate cellularity for diagnosis in ECC, especially when a biopsy is technically difficult. Further areas for exploration include investigating laboratory procedures to maximize the cellularity of ECC specimens.
Current Unemployment, Unemployment History, and Mental Health: A Fixed-Effects Model Approach
Authors: Junna Liina , Moustgaard Heta , Martikainen Pekka
Published: April 2022

Poor mental health among the unemployed—the long-term unemployed in particular—is established, but these associations may be driven by confounding from unobserved, time-invariant characteristics such as past experiences and personality. Using longitudinal register data on 2,720,431 residents aged 30–60 years, we assessed how current unemployment and unemployment history predict visits to specialized care due to psychiatric conditions and self-harm in Finland in 2008–2018. We used linear ordinary-least-squares and fixed-effects models. Prior to adjusting for time-invariant characteristics, current unemployment was associated with poor mental health, and the risk increased with longer unemployment histories. Accounting for all time-invariant characteristics with the fixed-effects models, these associations attenuated by approximately 70%, yet current unemployment was still associated with a 0.51 (95% confidence interval: 0.48, 0.53) percentage-point increase in the probability of poor mental health among men and women. Longer unemployment histories increased the probability among men in their 30s but not among older men or among women. The results indicate that selection by stable characteristics may explain a major part of the worse mental health among the unemployed and especially the long-term unemployed. However, even when controlling for this selection, current unemployment remains associated with mental health.
The Dual Nature Thesis as a Cornerstone of Jurisprudence
Authors: Bertea Stefano
Published: April 2022

In this work I defend the view that the “dual nature thesis” (as I refer to the claim that law’s institutional existence does not rule out its robust normativity, both components being essential to it) stands as a cornerstone of jurisprudence, in the sense that there cannot be any general theory of law that can afford to do away with it. Defending this stance requires me to first characterize the dual nature thesis in some detail. In this process, I will argue for a basic sense of the thesis under which law is best conceived as a social practice that could not work as such without the ability to engender at least some reasons for action, which reasons are grounded in rationality, are not inherently conclusive, and may or may not be moral. With that done, I move to defend the view that the thesis so characterized is compatible with both positivist and nonpositivist accounts of the nature of law and is also theoretically interesting and significant. These claims will be further consolidated in the final part of the work, where it is argued that the standard attempt to reject the dual nature thesis rests on an objectionable methodological premise and a questionable substantive assumption.
Compositional analysis of chondroitin/dermatan sulfate in rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta)
Authors: Cahyadi Danang Dwi , Okamoto Munehiro , Warita Katsuhiko , Takeda-Okuda Naoko , Tamura Jun-ichi , Hosaka Yoshinao Z
Published: April 2022

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are found in the various tissues and are involved in many physiological functions. Since the rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta) is the most widely used nonhuman primate in biomedical research, an understanding of the compositions of GAGs in their tissues is important. The aim of the study was to determine the content and sulfation pattern of disaccharides contained in several tissues of the rhesus monkey. The chondroitin sulfate (CS)/dermatan sulfate (DS) hybrid chain was extracted from several tissues of female and male rhesus monkeys. Compositional analysis was performed after digestion with chondroitinases ABC and ACI to reveal the sulfation pattern of the CS/DS hybrid chain. This study revealed that the major CS/DS disaccharide units present in the tissues were A- and C-types. The E- and iE-types were specifically distributed not only in the tracheal tissue but also in gastrointestinal tissues.
Appealing to Faculty Gatekeepers: Motivational Processes for Intentions to Adopt an Evidence-B ased Intervention
Authors: McPartlan Peter , Thoman Dustin B , Poe Jennifer , A Herrera Felisha , Smith Jessi L
Published: April 2022

What motivates faculty teaching gateway courses to consider adopting an evidence-based classroom intervention? In this nationally representative study of biology faculty members in the United States (N = 422), we used expectancy–value–cost theory to understand three convergent motivational processes the faculty members’ underlying intentions to adopt an exemplar evidence-based classroom intervention: the utility value intervention (UVI). Although the faculty members perceived the intervention as valuable, self-reported intentions to implement it were degraded by concerns about costs and lower expectancies for successful implementation. Structural equation modeling revealed that the faculty members reporting lower intentions to adopt it tended to be White and to identify as male and had many years of teaching or were from a more research-focused university. These personal, departmental, and institutional factors mapped onto value, expectancies, and cost perceptions uniquely, showing that each process was a necessary but insufficient way to inspire intentions to adopt the UVI. Our findings suggest multifaceted, context-responsive appeals to support faculty member motivation to scale up adoption of evidence-based classroom interventions.
Governing for Transformative Change across the Biodiversity–Climate–Society Nexus
Authors: Pascual Unai , McElwee Pamela D , Diamond Sarah E , Ngo Hien T , Bai Xuemei , Cheung William W L , Lim Michelle , Steiner Nadja , Agard John , Donatti Camila I , Duarte Carlos M , Leemans Rik , Managi Shunsuke , Pires Aliny P F , Reyes-García Victoria , Trisos Christopher , Scholes Robert J , Pörtner Hans-Otto
Published: April 2022

Transformative governance is key to addressing the global environmental crisis. We explore how transformative governance of complex biodiversity–climate–society interactions can be achieved, drawing on the first joint report between the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services to reflect on the current opportunities, barriers, and challenges for transformative governance. We identify principles for transformative governance under a biodiversity–climate–society nexus frame using four case studies: forest ecosystems, marine ecosystems, urban environments, and the Arctic. The principles are focused on creating conditions to build multifunctional interventions, integration, and innovation across scales; coalitions of support; equitable approaches; and positive social tipping dynamics. We posit that building on such transformative governance principles is not only possible but essential to effectively keep climate change within the desired 1.5 degrees Celsius global mean temperature increase, halt the ongoing accelerated decline of global biodiversity, and promote human well-being.
Contributions and Challenges of Public Health Social Work Practice during the Initial 2020 COVID-19 Outbreak in China
Authors: He Longtao , Mu Liping , Jean Jason A , Zhang Lei , Wu Han , Zhou Tian , Bu He
Published: April 2022

Social workers contributed significantly to the promotion of public and community health during the initial outbreak of COVID-19 in China. Based on a quasi-scoping review of articles on social work practice during that outbreak, this reflective article elucidates how social workers contributed in three chronological stages. In the early stage (late January and February 2020), social workers provided community services offered as part of the governmental structure (moderate information and resource provision); in the middle stage (March 2020), social workers provided services to vulnerable groups alongside supporting the quarantine strategy; and in the late stage (April 2020 onwards), their services were focused on recuperation and recovery after the national lockdown was lifted. In the meanwhile, several issues for public and community health social work as a profession in terms of how it was able to support anti-COVID-19 practices became clear, including a lack of independence and stability, the need for better flexibility and greater ability to act pragmatically and lack of professional agreement. This article aims to enlighten the development of a (re)emerging field—public health and community health social work in China in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Whole Blood Transfusion for Severe Malarial Anemia in a High Plasmodium falciparum Transmission Setting
Authors: Ippolito Matthew M , Kabuya Jean-Bertin B , Hauser Manuela , Kamavu Luc K , Banda Proscovia Miiye , Yanek Lisa R , Malik Rubab , Mulenga Modest , Bailey Jeffrey A , Chongwe Gershom , Louis Thomas A , Shapiro Theresa A , Moss William J ,   for the Southern and Central Africa International Centers of Excellence for Malaria Research
Published: April 2022

Background

Severe malaria resulting from Plasmodium falciparum infection is the leading parasitic cause of death in children worldwide, and severe malarial anemia (SMA) is the most common clinical presentation. The evidence in support of current blood transfusion guidelines for patients with SMA is limited.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 911 hospitalized children with SMA in a holoendemic region of Zambia to examine the association of whole blood transfusion with in-hospital survival. Data were analyzed in adjusted logistic regression models using multiple imputation for missing data.

Results

The median age of patients was 24 months (interquartile range, 16–30) and overall case fatality was 16%. Blood transfusion was associated with 35% reduced odds of death in children with SMA (odds ratio, 0.65; 95% confidence interval, .52–.81; P = .0002) corresponding to a number-needed-to-treat (NNT) of 14 patients. Children with SMA complicated by thrombocytopenia were more likely to benefit from transfusion than those without thrombocytopenia (NNT = 5). Longer storage time of whole blood was negatively associated with survival and with the posttransfusion rise in the platelet count but was not associated with the posttransfusion change in hemoglobin concentration.

Conclusions

Whole blood given to pediatric patients with SMA was associated with improved survival, mainly among those with thrombocytopenia who received whole blood stored for <4 weeks. These findings point to a potential use for incorporating thrombocytopenia into clinical decision making and management of severe malaria, which can be further assessed in prospective studies, and underline the importance of maintaining reliable blood donation networks in areas of high malaria transmission.
Genome analysis of five recently described species of the CUG-Ser clade uncoversCandida theaeas a new hybrid lineage with pathogenic potential in theCandida parapsilosisspecies complex
Authors: Mixão Verónica , del Olmo Valentina , Hegedűsová Eva , Saus Ester , Pryszcz Leszek , Cillingová Andrea , Nosek Jozef , Gabaldón Toni
Published: April 2022

Candida parapsilosis species complex comprises three important pathogenic species: Candida parapsilosis sensu stricto, Candida orthopsilosis and Candida metapsilosis. The majority of C. orthopsilosis and all C. metapsilosis isolates sequenced thus far are hybrids, and most of the parental lineages remain unidentified. This led to the hypothesis that hybrids with pathogenic potential were formed by the hybridization of non-pathogenic lineages that thrive in the environment. In a search for the missing hybrid parentals, and aiming to get a better understanding of the evolution of the species complex, we sequenced, assembled and analysed the genome of five close relatives isolated from the environment: Candida jiufengensis, Candida pseudojiufengensis, Candida oxycetoniae, Candida margitis and Candida theae. We found that the linear conformation of mitochondrial genomes in Candida species emerged multiple times independently. Furthermore, our analyses discarded the possible involvement of these species in the mentioned hybridizations, but identified C. theae as an additional hybrid in the species complex. Importantly, C. theae was recently associated with a case of infection, and we also uncovered the hybrid nature of this clinical isolate. Altogether, our results reinforce the hypothesis that hybridization is widespread among Candida species, and potentially contributes to the emergence of lineages with opportunistic pathogenic behaviour.
Effect of postoperative atrial fibrillation on early and mid-term outcomes of coronary artery bypass graft surgery
Authors: Oraii Alireza , Masoudkabir Farzad , Pashang Mina , Jalali Arash , Sadeghian Saeed , Mortazavi Seyedeh Hamideh , Ghorbanpour Landy Mina , Pourhosseini Hamidreza , Salarifar Mojtaba , Mansourian Soheil , Bagheri Jamshid , Momtahan Shahram , Karimi Abbasali
Published: April 2022

OBJECTIVES

The long-term prognostic role of postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) in cardiovascular outcomes in patients undergoing cardiac surgery is uncertain. Our goal was to investigate the impact of new-onset POAF on midterm adverse cardiovascular events after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent isolated CABG without a preoperative history of atrial fibrillation/flutter. POAF was defined as episodes of AF lasting ≥30 s during the hospitalization period. The effect of POAF on midterm all-cause mortality and cerebrovascular accidents/transient ischaemic attacks (CVA/TIA) was assessed using a Cox proportional hazard regression model in a competing risk setting. Additional analyses were performed on patients surviving an event-free early postoperative period (i.e. within 30 postoperative days after the index operation).

RESULTS

A total of 9,310 patients were followed for a median duration of 48.7 months. New-onset POAF was associated with an increased risk of midterm all-cause mortality (HR = 1.648, 95% confidence interval: 1.402–1.937; P < 0.001) and CVA/TIA (subdistribution-HR = 1.635, 1.233–2.167; P = 0.001). After excluding patients who died during the early postoperative period, POAF remained significantly associated with higher late all-cause mortality (HR = 1.518, 1.273–1.811; P < 0.001). However, the risk of late CVA/TIA in patients who survived the early postoperative period without having a stroke was similar between those with and without POAF (subdistribution-HR = 1.174, 0.797–1.729; P = 0.418).

CONCLUSIONS

New-onset POAF after CABG is associated with an increased risk of midterm overall mortality and stroke. However, late stroke risk is likely similar between patients with and without POAF who survive an event-free early postoperative period.
Life-threatening ventricular arrhythmia prediction in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy using explainable electrocardiogram-based deep neural networks
Authors: Sammani Arjan , van de Leur Rutger R , Henkens Michiel T H M , Meine Mathias , Loh Peter , Hassink Rutger J , Oberski Daniel L , Heymans Stephane R B , Doevendans Pieter A , Asselbergs Folkert W , te Riele Anneline S J M , van Es René
Published: April 2022

Aims

While electrocardiogram (ECG) characteristics have been associated with life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias (LTVA) in dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), they typically rely on human-derived parameters. Deep neural networks (DNNs) can discover complex ECG patterns, but the interpretation is hampered by their ‘black-box’ characteristics. We aimed to detect DCM patients at risk of LTVA using an inherently explainable DNN.

Methods and results

In this two-phase study, we first developed a variational autoencoder DNN on more than 1 million 12-lead median beat ECGs, compressing the ECG into 21 different factors (F): FactorECG. Next, we used two cohorts with a combined total of 695 DCM patients and entered these factors in a Cox regression for the composite LTVA outcome, which was defined as sudden cardiac arrest, spontaneous sustained ventricular tachycardia, or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator treated ventricular arrhythmia. Most patients were male (n = 442, 64%) with a median age of 54 years [interquartile range (IQR) 44–62], and median left ventricular ejection fraction of 30% (IQR 23–39). A total of 115 patients (16.5%) reached the study outcome. Factors F8 (prolonged PR-interval and P-wave duration, P < 0.005), F15 (reduced P-wave height, P = 0.04), F25 (increased right bundle branch delay, P = 0.02), F27 (P-wave axis P < 0.005), and F32 (reduced QRS-T voltages P = 0.03) were significantly associated with LTVA.

Conclusion

Inherently explainable DNNs can detect patients at risk of LTVA which is mainly driven by P-wave abnormalities.
Effects of Parental Experience and Age on Expression of Prolactin, Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide and their Receptors in a Biparental Bird (Columba livia)
Authors: Farrar Victoria S , Ramirez Alison V , Calisi Rebecca M
Published: April 2022

As animals gain parental experience, they often show more rapid and efficient parental care responses that likely improve offspring survival and fitness. Changes in circulating hormones that underlie reproductive behaviors, including prolactin, have been found to correlate with parental experience in birds and mammals. Altered responsiveness to prolactin in key behavioral centers of the brain may also underlie the effects of experience on parental behaviors. Further, experience may also affect responsiveness to prolactin stimulatory hormones, such as hypothalamic vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP). While experience has been shown to upregulate neural prolactin receptors and responsiveness in rodents, its effects on prolactin receptor gene expression remain unstudied in birds. To address this, we examined gene expression of pituitary prolactin, hypothalamic prolactin receptors in the preoptic area, hypothalamic VIP, and pituitary VIP receptors in both sexes of the biparental rock dove (Columba livia) when birds were not actively nesting. As age and parental experience are often confounded (i.e.,experienced parents tend to be older than their inexperienced counterparts), we measured gene expression in birds of varying combinations of age (0.6–3 years) and prior reproductive experience (0–12 chicks raised). We found that increasing experience with chicks correlated with lower PRLR expression in the preoptic area, and age correlated with lower VIP expression in birds of both sexes. Pituitary PRL and VIPR expression was not associated with parental experience or age. These results suggest there may be persistent effects of experience and age on neural responsiveness to, and regulation of, prolactin in birds.
It’s the Messenger: Identity-Based Evaluation of Amicable Messages During Conflict
Authors: Chudy Dana , Kampf Zohar
Published: April 2022

Despite the potential of amicable messages to transform the course of conflicts, studies have neglected the reasons target audiences accept or reject such messages. This study examines the evaluation of amicable messages conveyed by three groups of leaders perceived as “controversial” in the context of the Israeli–Palestinian conflict from the Israeli perspective: Palestinian, Middle Eastern, and Western. A content analysis of comments (N = 1,885) to news reports about amicable messages delivered by leaders of the three groups showed that the use of Israeli commenters in source-, receiver-, and message-related argument vary when commenting to amicable messages from different leaders. We discuss potential explanations for these distinct patterns and how leaders aiming to appease foreign audiences can formulate effective amicable messages.
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Anti-Spike Antibody Levels Following Second Dose of ChAdOx1 nCov-19 or BNT162b2 Vaccine in Residents of Long-term Care Facilities in England (VIVALDI)
Authors: Stirrup Oliver , Krutikov Maria , Tut Gokhan , Palmer Tom , Bone David , Bruton Rachel , Fuller Chris , Azmi Borscha , Lancaster Tara , Sylla Panagiota , Kaur Nayandeep , Spalkova Eliska , Bentley Christopher , Amin Umayr , Jadir Azar , Hulme Samuel , Giddings Rebecca , Nacer-Laidi Hadjer , Baynton Verity , Irwin-Singer Aidan , Hayward Andrew , Moss Paul , Copas Andrew , Shallcross Laura
Published: April 2022

General population studies have shown strong humoral response following severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccination with subsequent waning of anti-spike antibody levels. Vaccine-induced immune responses are often attenuated in frail and older populations, but published data are scarce. We measured SARS-CoV-2 anti-spike antibody levels in long-term care facility residents and staff following a second vaccination dose with Oxford-AstraZeneca or Pfizer-BioNTech. Vaccination elicited robust antibody responses in older residents, suggesting comparable levels of vaccine-induced immunity to that in the general population. Antibody levels are higher after Pfizer-BioNTech vaccination but fall more rapidly compared to Oxford-AstraZeneca recipients and are enhanced by prior infection in both groups.
The Role of Skills and Gender Norms in Sector Switches: Experimental Evidence from a Job Training Program in Nigeria
Authors: Croke Kevin , Goldstein Markus , Holla Alaka
Published: April 2022

Industrialisation and structural change entails shifting workers from low-skill to high-skill occupations. In emerging economies, multiple constraints may impede sectoral switches among workers, including skill and spatial mismatches, and social norms related to gender in the workplace. This study uses a job training experiment across five cities in Nigeria to estimate the overall effect of training on sectoral switches into the information and communications technology and business process outsourcing sector, and to examine the role of various factors that might constrain switching. After 2 years, the treatment group was 26% more likely to work in the information and communication technology (ICT)-enabled service sector, although they were no more likely to be employed than the control group. Sectoral switches were higher among those with sector-relevant skills, and training magnified the skills premium in switching. Switches were also higher in some cities, despite large improvements in skills in all cities. Women who were implicitly biassed against associating women with professional attributes were two times more likely to switch into ICT than unbiased women, suggesting that training helped overcome internalised social norms among female applicants to the program. These results suggest that training can be an effective strategy for inducing sector switches and overcoming social norms that hamper female mobility in the labour market, and that narrower targeting may make such sector-specific job training programs more effective.