bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chinese and Indian higher education students go abroad: listening to them to determine what their needs are
Authors: Perez-Encinas Adriana , Rodriguez-Pomeda Jesus
Published: October 2021

This paper voices the opinions of international students’ from China and India, and highlights the intentional process of integrating their perceptions of internationalization into a strategic service delivery plan. Data on those perceptions were analysed using a probabilistic model. We clustered 766 international students’ opinions into categories that enabled us to determine the main ideas that constituted their perceptions. The findings enabled us to draw comparisons between two major sending countries and to formulate a series of recommendations for stakeholders in higher education institutions that receive Chinese and Indian students, as well as for policymakers. Primary differences relate to factors such as learning and internship opportunities for Chinese students and service provision for Indian ones. In conclusion, this study offers the next step in the analysis of Chinese and Indian international students’ needs providing with an innovative way of determining students concerns with a view to empowering them within the internationalization process of higher education institutions.
A genome-wide expression profile of noncoding RNAs in human osteosarcoma cells as they acquire resistance to cisplatin
Authors: Sharma Harshita , Niveditha Divya , Chowdhury Rajdeep , Mukherjee Sudeshna , Chowdhury Shibasish
Published: October 2021

Background

Recurrence after cisplatin therapy is one of the major hindrances in the management of cancer. This necessitates a deeper understanding of the molecular signatures marking the acquisition of resistance. We therefore modeled the response of osteosarcoma (OS) cells to the first-line chemotherapeutic drug cisplatin. A small population of nondividing cells survived acute cisplatin shock (persisters; OS-P). These cells regained proliferative potential over time re-instating the population again (extended persisters; OS-EP).

Result

In this study, we present the expression profile of noncoding RNAs in untreated OS cells (chemo-naive), OS-P, OS-EP and drug-resistant (OS-R) cells derived from the latter. RNA sequencing was carried out, and thereafter, differential expression (log2-fold ± 1.5; p value ≤ 0.05) of microRNAs (miRNAs) was analyzed in each set. The core set of miRNAs that were uniquely or differentially expressed in each group was identified. Interestingly, we observed that most of each group had their own distinctive set of miRNAs. The miRNAs showing an inverse correlation in expression pattern with mRNAs were further selected, and the key pathways regulated by them were delineated for each group. We observed that pathways such as TNF signaling, autophagy and mitophagy were implicated in multiple groups.

Conclusion

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that provides critical information on the variation in the expression pattern of ncRNAs in osteosarcoma cells and the pathways that they might tightly regulate as cells acquire resistance.
Research on Material and Morphological Structure of Venus Flytrap Trigger Hair
Authors: Wang Qian , Xu Kun , Fan Cheng , Sun Lining , Zhang Lei , Wang Kejun
Published: October 2021

Venus flytrap can sense the very small insects that touch its tactile receptors, known as trigger hairs, and thus capture prey to maintain its nutrient demand. However, there are few studies on the trigger hair and its morphological structure and material properties are not fully understood. In this study, the trigger hair is systematically characterized with the help of different instruments. Results show that trigger hair is a special cantilever beam structure and it has a large longitudinal diameter ratio. Besides, it is composed of a hair lever and a basal podium, and there is a notch near the hair base. The cross-section of the trigger hair is approximately a honeycomb structure, which is composed of many holes. Methods to measure mechanical properties of trigger hair are introduced in this paper. Based on the mechanical tests, trigger hair proved to be a variable stiffness structure and shows a high sensitivity to the external force. These features can provide supports for the understanding of the high-sensitivity sensing mechanism of trigger hairs from the perspective of structure and material, and offer inspirations for the development of high-performance tactile sensors.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Training of Health-Care Workers and Preparedness of Hospital Emergency Departments for the Threat of Communicable Diseases at Mass Gathering Events in Qatar: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Al-Romaihi Hamad , Al-Dahshan Ayman , Kehyayan Vahe , Shawky Sherine , Al-Masri Hana , Mahadoon Lylu , Farag Elmoubasher , Frazier Tim
Published: October 2021

Objective:

This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and training of health-care workers (HCW), and their perception of the preparedness of hospitals for communicable disease (CD) threats during mass gathering (MG) events.

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study conducted from June 1 to July 31, 2019, of doctors and registered nurses working in the emergency departments (EDs) of 5 main hospitals in Qatar. A self-administered online survey was used for data collection.

Results:

The overall mean knowledge score about CD threat among study participants was 75.0% (SD ± 18.1). The majority of the participants had a favorable attitude toward CD preparedness during MG events. The participants achieved high scores in attending workshops on triaging, first aid, and infection control. Study participants as well had favorable perceptions about the current preparedness of their respective hospitals to respond to CD outbreaks in MG events.

Conclusions:

The participants were knowledgeable about the risk of CD outbreaks during MG events (eg, Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) World Cup games 2022) and had a favorable attitude and necessary training to respond to such outbreaks. Regular practice drills are necessary to ensure that all members of the workforce are knowledgeable of the necessary actions to take in emergent high-risk situations.
MEDICAL TABLETS FROM THE ARCHIVE OF THE EGIBI FAMILY? AN EDITION OF BM 30918 AND BM 31071
Authors: Simkó Krisztián , Bácskay András
Published: October 2021

Building on recent advances in the field of Neo- and Late Babylonian medicine, this paper presents the edition and thorough analysis of two unpublished medical tablets from the collections of the British Museum (BM 30918 and BM 31071). In the first part, the archival and social context of these tablets will be explored, while also reporting on findings about how they might fit into the larger corpus of Late Babylonian medical texts. The two tablets are published in the second part of the paper. The aim of this paper is to illustrate that the discussed tablets contribute a lot to our understanding of how medicine as a scientific field worked in the latter half of the first millennium B.C.E. It advances further and draws up more comprehensively the thesis about the “personalisation” of medical knowledge, put forward only recently in the scholarly literature. In addition, it also collects evidence that ties Itti-Marduk-balāṭu, an important member of the Egibi family, to the craft of incantation priests (āšipūtu); this person has so far been known mostly for his activity as a businessman.
Altered dietary ratio of folic acid and vitamin B12 during pregnancy influences the expression of imprinted H19/IGF2 locus in C57BL/6 mice
Authors: Mahajan Aatish , Sapehia Divika , Rahat Beenish , Kaur Jyotdeep
Published: October 2021

Maternal folic acid and vitamin B12 (B12) status during pregnancy influence fetal growth. This study elucidated the effect of altered dietary ratio of folic acid and B12 on the regulation of H19/IGF2 locus in C57BL/6 mice. Female mice were fed diets with nine combinations of folic acid and B12 for 4 weeks. They were mated and the offspring born (F1) were continued on the same diet for 6 weeks post-weaning and were allowed to mate. The placenta and fetal (F2) tissues were collected at day 20 of gestation. H19 overexpression observed under dietary deficiency of folate combined with normal B12 (B12 normal folic acid-deficient, BNFD) was associated with an increased expression of microRNA-675 (miR-675) in maternal and fetal tissues. Insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) expression was decreased under folic acid-deficient conditions combined with normal, deficient or over-supplemented state of B12 (BNFD, BDFD and BOFD) in fetal tissues along with B12 deficiency combined with normal folic acid (BDFN) in the placenta. The altered expression of imprinted genes under folic acid-deficient conditions was related to decreased serum levels of folate and body weight (F1). Hypermethylation observed at the H19 differentially methylated region (DMR) (in BNFD) might be responsible for the decreased expression of IGF2 in female fetal tissues. IGF2 DMR2 was found to be hypomethylated and associated with low serum B12 levels with B12 deficiency in fetal tissues. Results suggest that the altered dietary ratio of folic acid and B12 affects the in utero development of the fetus in association with altered epigenetic regulation of H19/IGF2 locus.
Dairy intake and the risk of pancreatic cancer: the Japan Collaborative Cohort Study (JACC Study) and meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies
Authors: Arafa Ahmed , Eshak Ehab Salah , Dong Jia-Yi , Shirai Kokoro , Muraki Isao , Iso Hiroyasu , Tamakoshi Akiko ,   the JACC Study Group
Published: October 2021

Dairy product intake was suggested to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal cancers. This study investigated the association between dairy product intake and the risk of pancreatic cancer (PAC) using a prospective cohort study and meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies. First, we included 59 774 people aged 40–79 years from the Japan Collaborative Cohort Study (JACC Study). The Cox regression was used to compute the hazard ratios (HR) and 95 % CI of incident PAC for individuals who reported the highest intakes of milk, cheese and yogurt compared with not consuming the corresponding dairy products. Then, we combined our results with those from other four prospective cohort studies that were eligible after searching several databases, in a meta-analysis, using the fixed-effects model before evaluating publication bias and heterogeneity across studies. In the JACC Study, the highest v. no intakes of milk, cheese and yogurt were not associated with the reduced risk of PAC after a median follow-up of 13·4 years: HR (95 % CI) = 0·93 (0·64, 1·33), 0·91 (0·51, 1·62) and 0·68 (0·38, 1·21), respectively. The results did not significantly change in the meta-analysis: 0·95 (0·82, 1·11) for milk, 1·16 (0·87, 1·55) for cheese and 0·91 (0·79, 1·05) for yogurt. The meta-analysis showed no signs of publication bias or heterogeneity across studies. To conclude, consumption of milk, cheese and yogurt was not associated with the risk of PAC either in the JACC Study or the meta-analysis.
Freeport and the States: Politics of Corporations and Contemporary Colonialism in West Papua
Authors: Kusumaryati Veronika
Published: October 2021

Corporations often claim to be economic actors solely interested in capital accumulation. However, historical and anthropological scholarship has argued they have had outsized political roles, especially during high colonialism when transnational corporations such as the British East India Company and the Dutch East India Company shaped colonial entities. This article explores the case of American mining company Freeport-McMoRan, which runs the world’s largest gold and copper mine in West Papua, and its entanglement with contemporary imperial and colonial projects in the region. Through the study of the company’s decisive role in the transfer of West Papua from the Dutch to Indonesia during the decolonization period of the 1960s, and in the formation of the postcolonial Indonesian state characterized by its militaristic and capitalistic stances, this article argues that Freeport’s operation in West Papua has been central to shaping U.S. imperial policy in Southeast Asia. The company’s relationship with the U.S. government and its contract of work with the Indonesian government reproduce an older form of state-corporation partnership called a charter, which grants a corporate body privileges associated with exploration, trade, and colonization. Combining a historical study of the political role of corporations across time and an ethnographic study of Freeport’s operation, this article rethinks the anthropological and historical study of transnational corporations and their roles in the contemporary politics of colonialism.
An efficient drain-lag model for microwave GaN HEMTs based on ASM-HEMT
Authors: Beleniotis Petros , Schnieder Frank , Krause Sascha , Haque Sanaul , Rudolph Matthias
Published: October 2021

Large-signal modeling of Gallium Nitride (GaN) based high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) demands a proper description of trapping effects. In this paper, a new, simplified yet accurate drain-lag description is proposed, enhancing the simulation accuracy and the extraction flow of the physics-based compact model ASM-HEMT. The present study investigates the impact of drain lag on specific physical phenomena, focusing on the relation between trap states, surface-potential calculations, and electron transport properties. It is supplemented with a revised extraction procedure, minimizing the required measurements, thereby the undesired consequences of several passes on the same device, using pulsed I-V and pulsed S-parameters only, and approaches for efficient and accurate simulation results. We show that the proposed trap model is a determinative tool for simulating both small and large-signal behavior predicting precisely S-parameters and load-pull performance.
Nutzung elektronischer Zigaretten (E-Zigaretten) und E-Shishas durch Kinder und Jugendliche
Authors: Arnaud Nicolas , Holtmann Martin , Melchers Peter , Klein Marianne , Schimansky Gisela , Krömer Thomas , Reis Olaf , Thomasius Rainer
Published: October 2021

Zusammenfassung. Die besonderen Risiken des Konsums von elektronischen Zigaretten (E-Zigaretten) im Kindes- und Jugendalter werden im gesundheitspolitischen Diskurs zu wenig berücksichtigt. Im vorliegenden Beitrag werden die aktuellen Verbreitungs- und Konsummuster von E-Zigaretten sowie das Gefährdungspotenzial einer Nutzung für Kinder und Jugendliche bewertet. Auf Basis aktueller nationaler und internationaler Studien zeigt sich seit einigen Jahren eine deutliche Zunahme des Konsums von E-Zigaretten, die im scharfen Kontrast zum rückläufigen Tabakkonsum bei Kindern und Jugendlichen in Deutschland steht. Dabei konsumieren junge Menschen ohne Tabakerfahrung häufiger E-Zigaretten als Gleichaltrige mit einem gelegentlichen und regelmäßigen Tabakgebrauch. Sie experimentieren außerdem häufiger mit konventionellen Zigaretten, wenn sie zuvor E-Zigaretten konsumiert haben. Die weitgehend unregulierte Verfügbarkeit von E-Zigarettenprodukten der neuesten Generation wie JUUL hat unter Schüler_innen in den USA zu einer dramatischen Zunahme minderjähriger E-Zigarettenkonsument_innen geführt. Diese Produkte werden mit hohem Nikotingehalt und aromatischen Geschmacksrichtungen angeboten und über Werbung und soziale Medien intensiv als trendige Lifestyleprodukte für junge Nutzergruppen vermarktet. Auch in Deutschland nehmen diese Produkte stark an Relevanz zu. Die Erfolge der Tabakprävention der letzten Jahre werden durch wirksame Werbung für E-Zigaretten gefährdet. Die Suchtkommission der deutschen kinder- und jugendpsychiatrischen Verbände und wissenschaftlichen Fachgesellschaft spricht sich daher für ein umgehendes, striktes und umfassendes Werbeverbot für E-Zigaretten aus.
Using the Complementary Relationship Between Actual and Potential Evaporation to Diagnose the Onset of Heatwaves
Authors: Aminzadeh Milad , Roderick Michael L. , Or Dani
Published: October 2021

Prolonged periods of extremely high temperatures with lack of precipitation mark heatwaves that pose health risks and damage ecosystems via rapid soil water depletion and reduced evaporative cooling. Identifying the conditions for the onset of heatwaves and their effects on land‐atmosphere energy and mass fluxes remains a challenge. We propose using the generalized complementary relationship (CR) to estimate actual evaporation from heterogeneous landscapes overlain by different vegetation types (i.e., grasslands and forests) and quantify responses to radiation and air temperature anomalies. A strong correlation between air temperature and sensible heat flux anomalies deduced from FLUXNET data suggests that abrupt exceedances of sensible heat flux above climatological means are indicators for the onset of heatwaves. We capitalize on the coupling between latent and sensible heat fluxes and their links to soil moisture availability within the CR framework to predict anomalous increases in regional sensible heat flux associated with soil water depletion (low precipitation) and extreme evaporative demand (hot air and high radiation). The systematic and energy‐constrained framework based on the CR concept provides insights into the triggering and feedbacks associated with heatwaves and hydro‐climatic extremes such as regional droughts.
Researchers Zero In on Methane Released from Reservoirs
Authors: Derouin Sarah
Published: October 2021

Using new methods, researchers can estimate how much methane is released each day from reservoirs—an important step in estimating global methane emissions.
On the Evolution and Fate of Sediment Diapirs in Subduction Zones
Authors: Klein Benjamin Z. , Behn Mark D.
Published: October 2021

At subduction zones, significant volumes of sediments and other crustal material are carried on top of the downgoing plate past the trench and into the mantle. This represents the dominant process by which material from the Earth's surface is recycled to the interior. However, the fate of these recycled materials is uncertain. Subducted material may be carried with the slab into the deep mantle, or it may form diapirs that ascend into the hotter portions of the mantle wedge, where they can melt and/or be relaminated to the base of the arc crust. While this material can be a mixture (or “mélange”) of sediments, oceanic crust and mantle rocks, here we focus on the dynamics of the uppermost layer of sediments on the downgoing slab. We modified a thermodynamic model to accurately predict the equilibrium mineral assemblage, melting behavior, and density of a range of subducted sediment compositions at pressure and temperature conditions relevant to subduction zones. Using this thermodynamic model, we constructed a coupled dynamic model of sediment diapirs and identified the primary parameters that control diapir behavior: sediment thickness and composition, and the thermal state of the subduction zone. Relamination of ascending diapirs is favored by greater sediment thicknesses, more felsic compositions, and warmer thermal conditions. By contrast, diapirism is suppressed in colder arcs, or where subducted sediment layers are thin or more mafic. Applying this model to modern subduction zones suggests that multiple processes are active today, with relamination occurring in a significant subset of modern arcs.
Frequency‐Dependent Responses of Plasmaspheric Hiss to the Impact of an Interplanetary Shock
Authors: Fu Haobo , Yue Chao , Ma Qianli , Kang Ning , Bortnik Jacob , Zong Qiu‐gang , Zhou Xu‐zhi
Published: October 2021

Plasmaspheric hiss waves are essential for the pitch‐angle scattering and precipitation of energetic electrons and interplanetary shocks may affect these waves. We present a case study on the responses of plasmaspheric hiss after an interplanetary shock arrival on September 7, 2017. Based on the observation by RBSP‐B, the plasmaspheric hiss in different frequency ranges shows three different responses simultaneously: hiss waves with frequency below 0.08fce are weakened, waves within 0.08–0.18fce are weakened in magnetic power and modulated by the ultra‐low frequency (ULF) waves in the electric power, while waves above 0.18fce are intensified in magnetic power and modulated by the ULF waves. Further analysis suggests that the hiss waves have different sources: low‐frequency (<∼0.18fce) hiss waves are transmitted from chorus outside the plasmasphere, while high‐frequency (>∼0.18fce) hiss waves are locally amplified. Our results provide a comprehensive view of the frequency‐dependent hiss wave behavior after the impact of interplanetary shocks.
Direct Comparison of the Tsunami‐Generated Magnetic Field With Sea Level Change for the 2009 Samoa and 2010 Chile Tsunamis
Authors: Lin Zhiheng , Toh Hiroaki , Minami Takuto
Published: October 2021

The motion of conductive seawater by tsunamis can generate magnetic fields in the presence of the background geomagnetic main field. Previous studies found that, using the tsunami‐generated seafloor magnetic field, it is possible to predict the propagation direction and wave height prior to the actual arrivals of tsunamis. This study correlates the tsunami magnetic field and the tsunami sea level change using observed data and three‐dimensional simulations of the 2009 Samoa and 2010 Chile tsunamis. Our direct comparison of the tsunami observed magnetic field and tsunami sea level change illustrate that the vertical tsunami magnetic component, , arrived earlier than the sea level change. The “initial rise” signal in the observed horizontal tsunami magnetic component, , which was arrived even earlier than also is found by combing the observation with the three‐dimensional simulations. We further examine the precision of conversion of the tsunami magnetic field to the sea level change and find that the magnetic field derived tsunami sea levels are as precise as those obtained from differential pressure gauge data. However, our simulation shows that existing tsunami source models are incompatible with our tsunami magnetic data. Therefore, it is necessary to include magnetic field derived tsunami sea level changes to improve those source models.
Radiative Effects of Increased Water Vapor in the Upper Saharan Air Layer Associated With Enhanced Dustiness
Authors: Ryder C. L.
Published: October 2021

The Saharan Air Layer (SAL) is known as an elevated, well‐mixed, warm, dry, frequently dusty layer and plays an important role in regional climate and dust transport. A new analysis of aircraft observations of haboob‐driven dust events shows that although increased dustiness in the SAL is associated with drier conditions in the lower‐SAL as expected, dustiness is also associated with increased moisture in the upper‐SAL, likely originating from cold pool outflows driving the dust uplift. We assess the radiative effects of the observed dust and increased water vapor (WV). The observed WV in the upper‐SAL affects the top‐of‐atmosphere (TOA) direct radiative effect (DRE), while lower‐SAL WV affects the surface DRE and column atmospheric heating. TOA DRE is negative for dust only, while including both the observed dust and WV reduces the magnitude of the negative TOA DRE by 17% (3.0 ± 0.8 Wm−2) when AOD > 0.6. The observed WV structure increases the magnitude of the negative surface DRE from dust by 8% (5.1 ± 0.8 Wm−2) and increases atmospheric heating by 17% (8.0 ± 0.6 Wm−2). These effects are driven by longwave (LW) radiation, whereby WV changes increase the positive TOA LW DRE, decrease the surface LW DRE and change the sign of LW atmospheric heating from negative to positive. WV leads to enhanced cooling in the moist upper‐SAL and heating in the dry lower‐SAL under dustier conditions. Increased WV in the SAL is consistent with other studies demonstrating increasing Saharan WV. This study demonstrates the importance of upper‐SAL WV in determining the radiative effect of dust.
Using Solar Wind Helium to Probe the Structure and Seasonal Variability of the Martian Hydrogen Corona
Authors: Halekas Jasper S. , McFadden James P.
Published: October 2021

We utilize measurements from instruments on the Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN (MAVEN) mission to investigate singly ionized helium formed by charge exchange between solar wind alpha particles and neutral hydrogen in the region upstream from Mars. We show that the observed helium ion signal varies with solar wind speed and spatial location in a manner consistent with expectations for a charge exchange source. We find that the ratio of singly to doubly ionized helium varies with Martian season, with a peak in the southern summer season. The inferred neutral hydrogen column density and the seasonal variation thereof agree with the results of previous studies based on other measurement techniques. The MAVEN helium ion measurements provide a new method of probing the hydrogen corona, with nearly continuous coverage of the Martian seasonal cycle across the entire mission, enabling study of the interannual variability of the Martian exosphere.
Augmenting MNK1/2 activation by c-FMS proteolysis promotes osteoclastogenesis and arthritic bone erosion
Authors: Mun Se Hwan , Bae Seyeon , Zeng Steven , Oh Brian , Chai Carmen , Kim Matthew Jundong , Kim Haemin , Kalliolias George , Dahia Chitra Lekha , Oh Younseo , Kim Tae-Hwan , Ji Jong Dae , Park-Min Kyung-Hyun
Published: October 2021

Osteoclasts are bone-resorbing cells that play an essential role in homeostatic bone remodeling and pathological bone erosion. Macrophage colony stimulating factor (M-CSF) is abundant in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, the role of M-CSF in arthritic bone erosion is not completely understood. Here, we show that M-CSF can promote osteoclastogenesis by triggering the proteolysis of c-FMS, a receptor for M-CSF, leading to the generation of FMS intracellular domain (FICD) fragments. Increased levels of FICD fragments positively regulated osteoclastogenesis but had no effect on inflammatory responses. Moreover, myeloid cell-specific FICD expression in mice resulted in significantly increased osteoclast-mediated bone resorption in an inflammatory arthritis model. The FICD formed a complex with DAP5, and the FICD/DAP5 axis promoted osteoclast differentiation by activating the MNK1/2/EIF4E pathway and enhancing NFATc1 protein expression. Moreover, targeting the MNK1/2 pathway diminished arthritic bone erosion. These results identified a novel role of c-FMS proteolysis in osteoclastogenesis and the pathogenesis of arthritic bone erosion.
Efficacy of stylet angulation at the holding position during tracheal intubation with a videolaryngoscope: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wakabayashi Ryo , Shiko Yuki , Kodaira Tomofumi , Shiroshita Yuko , Otsuka Hitomi , Baba Kosuke , Hishinuma Norimasa
Published: October 2021

The aim of this randomized controlled trial was to determine the efficacy of stylet angulation at the holding position during tracheal intubation with a McGRATH MAC videolaryngoscope. Patients were randomized to a group for intubation without stylet angulation at the holding position (non-angulation group) and to a group for intubation with stylet angulation at the holding position (angulation group). The primary outcome was the time for placement of the tracheal tube. Sixty patients were analyzed. The mean (standard deviation) times for tube placement were 21.3 (5.6) s in the non-angulation group and 16.9 (3.8) s in the angulation group (P < 0.001). The scores of operator's perception of difficulty in tube delivery, number of attempts for tube delivery, and degrees of extension, abduction, internal rotation of the right upper arm and extension of the right wrist during tube placement in the angulation group were significantly smaller than those in the non-angulation group (P < 0.001, P = 0.002, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, respectively). Our results suggest that stylet angulation at the holding position improves maneuverability of the tracheal tube and enables easy, smooth, and swift tube placement during tracheal intubation with a McGRATH MAC videolaryngoscope.
SARS-CoV-2 transmission during an indoor professional sporting event
Authors: Pauser Johannes , Schwarz Chantal , Morgan James , Jantsch Jonathan , Brem Matthias
Published: October 2021

Sporting events with spectators can present a risk during the COVID-19 pandemic of becoming potential superspreader events that can result in mass-infection amongst participants—both sportspeople and spectators alike. In order to prevent disease transmission, many professional sporting bodies have implemented detailed hygiene regulations. This report analyzes SARS-CoV-2 transmission during a professional sports event (2nd division professional basketball in Germany). Whilst social distancing in this context is not always possible, the rate of infection was significantly reduced by wearing face masks that cover the mouth and nose. There was no infection amongst individuals who continuously wore medical particle filter masks (Category KN95/FFP2 or higher) during this sporting event.
Targeting a conserved structural element from the SARS-CoV-2 genome using l-DNA aptamers
Authors: Li Jing , Sczepanski Jonathan T.
Published: October 2021

In vitro selection was used to identify L-DNA aptamers with high affinity and selectivity for the s2m RNA structure in the SARS-CoV-2 genome.
Carbonaceous aerosols and their light absorption properties over the Bay of Bengal during continental outflow
Authors: Nayak Gourav , Kumar Ashwini , Bikkina Srinivas , Tiwari Shani , Sheteye Suhas S. , Sudheer A. K.
Published: October 2021

Impact of continental outflow from the Indo-Gangetic Plains on concentration, composition and light absorption properties of carbonaceous aerosols over the Bay of Bengal.
Palladium(ii) catalyzed site-selective C–H olefination of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines
Authors: Tali Javeed Ahmad , Kumar Gulshan , Singh Davinder , Shankar Ravi
Published: October 2021

C8 alkenylation with olefinic substrates of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine. Sequential 3α,8β-di-olefination of the imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine. Late-stage functionalization of a marketed drug, zolimidine.
Osteoprotegerin regulates vascular function through syndecan-1 and NADPH oxidase-derived reactive oxygen species
Authors: Alves-Lopes Rhéure , Neves Karla Bianca , Strembitska Anastasiya , Harvey Adam P. , Harvey Katie Y. , Yusuf Hiba , Haniford Susan , Hepburn Ross T. , Dyet Jennifer , Beattie Wendy , Haddow Laura , McAbney John , Graham Delyth , Montezano Augusto C.
Published: October 2021

Osteogenic factors, such as osteoprotegerin (OPG), are protective against vascular calcification. However, OPG is also positively associated with cardiovascular damage, particularly in pulmonary hypertension, possibly through processes beyond effects on calcification. In the present study, we focused on calcification-independent vascular effects of OPG through activation of syndecan-1 and NADPH oxidases (Noxs) 1 and 4. Isolated resistance arteries from Wistar–Kyoto (WKY) rats, exposed to exogenous OPG, studied by myography exhibited endothelial and smooth muscle dysfunction. OPG decreased nitric oxide (NO) production, eNOS activation and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in endothelial cells. In VSMCs, OPG increased ROS production, H2O2/peroxynitrite levels and activation of Rho kinase and myosin light chain. OPG vascular and redox effects were also inhibited by the syndecan-1 inhibitor synstatin (SSNT). Additionally, heparinase and chondroitinase abolished OPG effects on VSMCs-ROS production, confirming syndecan-1 as OPG molecular partner and suggesting that OPG binds to heparan/chondroitin sulphate chains of syndecan-1. OPG-induced ROS production was abrogated by NoxA1ds (Nox1 inhibitor) and GKT137831 (dual Nox1/Nox4 inhibitor). Tempol (SOD mimetic) inhibited vascular dysfunction induced by OPG. In addition, we studied arteries from Nox1 and Nox4 knockout (KO) mice. Nox1 and Nox4 KO abrogated OPG-induced vascular dysfunction. Vascular dysfunction elicited by OPG is mediated by a complex signalling cascade involving syndecan-1, Nox1 and Nox4. Our data identify novel molecular mechanisms beyond calcification for OPG, which may underlie vascular injurious effects of osteogenic factors in conditions such as hypertension and/or diabetes.
An In-Depth Case Description of Gaze Patterns of an Individual With Cortical Visual Impairment to Stimuli of Varying Complexity: Implications for Augmentative and Alternative Communication Design
Authors: Wilkinson Krista M. , Wolf Sophie J.
Published: October 2021

Purpose:

Many individuals with cortical visual impairment (CVI) are unable to meet their daily communication needs through natural speech. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) provides supports for individuals with complex communication needs, including those with CVI. However, many forms of AAC involve access via a visual modality. This presents specific challenges for assessment and intervention of individuals with CVI using AAC.

Method:

This study used an automated eye tracking technology to analyze the gaze patterns of one individual with CVI to stimuli of varying complexity. The automated eye tracking technology captured the point of gaze of the participant every 16 ms (60 Hz), allowing for a detailed evaluation of what captured the participant's attention.

Results:

Variations in stimulus complexity resulted in changes in visual attention. Overall, the participant engaged significantly faster to and longer with simpler images both when presented one at a time and also during a preferential looking task when two stimuli were presented. Additionally, one stimulus displayed a teddy bear, with an animated face. The participant gazed at the face for the majority of her looking time to that stimulus, rather than the colorful foot pads.

Conclusions:

The participant demonstrated clear patterns of quicker response times and longer gaze times when the stimuli were simpler in design. This has implications for AAC interventions and choice of symbols. Additionally, the participant's ability to engage with the face of the teddy bear image suggests her visual processing was consistent with the score she received on the CVI Range, an assessment tool that describes functional vision in individuals with CVI.
A new automated tool for the spectral classification of OB stars
Authors: Kyritsis E. , Maravelias G. , Zezas A. , Bonfini P. , Kovlakas K. , Reig P.
Published: October 2021

Context.As an increasing number of spectroscopic surveys become available, an automated approach to spectral classification becomes necessary. Due to the significance of the massive stars, it is of great importance to identify the phenomenological parameters of these stars (e.g., the spectral type), which can be used as proxies to their physical parameters (e.g., mass and temperature).

Aims.In this work, we aim to use the random forest (RF) algorithm to develop a tool for the automated spectral classification of OB-type stars according to their sub-types.

Methods.We used the regular RF algorithm, the probabilistic RF, which is an extension of RF that incorporates uncertainties, and we introduced the KDE – RF method which is a combination of the kernel-density estimation and the RF algorithm. We trained the algorithms on the equivalent width (EW) of characteristic absorption lines measured in high-quality spectra (signal-to-noise (S/N)≳50) from large Galactic (LAMOST, GOSSS) and extragalactic surveys (2dF, VFTS) with available spectral types and luminosity classes. By following an adaptive binning approach, we grouped the labels of these data in 11 spectral classes within the O2-B9 range. We examined which of the characteristic spectral lines (features) are more important for the classification based on a number of feature selection methods, and we searched for the optimal hyperparameters of the classifiers to achieve the best performance.

Results.From the feature-screening process, we find that the full set of 17 spectral lines is needed to reach the maximum performance per spectral class. We find that the overall accuracy score is ∼70%, with similar results across all approaches. We apply our model in other observational data sets providing examples of the potential application of our classifier to real science cases. We find that it performs well for both single massive stars and for the companion massive stars in Be X-ray binaries, especially for data of similar quality to the training sample. In addition, we propose a reduced ten-features scheme that can be applied to large data sets with lowerS/N ∼ 20 − 50.

Conclusions.The similarity in the performances of our models indicates the robustness and the reliability of the RF algorithm when it is used for the spectral classification of early-type stars. The score of ∼70% is high if we consider (a) the complexity of such multiclass classification problems (i.e., 11 classes), (b) the intrinsic scatter of the EW distributions within the examined spectral classes, and (c) the diversity of the training set since we use data obtained from different surveys with different observing strategies. In addition, the approach presented in this work is applicable to products from different surveys in terms of quality (e.g., different resolution) and different formats (e.g., absolute or normalized flux), while our classifier is agnostic to the luminosity class of a star, and, as much as possible, it is metallicity independent.
Planetary climate under extremely high vertical diffusivity
Authors: Si Yidongfang , Yang Jun , Liu Yonggang
Published: October 2021

Aims. Planets with large moon(s) or those in the habitable zone of low-mass stars may experience much stronger tidal force and tide-induced ocean mixing than that on Earth. Thus, the vertical diffusivity (or, more precisely, diapycnal diffusivity) on such planets, which represents the strength of vertical mixing in the ocean, would be greater than that on Earth. In this study, we explore the effects of extremely high diffusivity on the ocean circulation and surface climate of Earth-like planets in one asynchronous rotation orbit.

Methods. The response of planetary climate to 10 and 100 times greater vertical diffusivity than that found on Earth is investigated using a fully coupled atmosphere–ocean general circulation model. In order to perform a clear comparison with the climate of modern Earth, Earth’s orbit, land–sea configuration, and present levels of greenhouse gases are included in the simulations.

Results. We find that a larger vertical diffusivity intensifies the meridional overturning circulation (MOC) in the ocean, which transports more heat to polar regions and melts sea ice there. Feedback associated with sea ice, clouds, and water vapor act to further amplify surface warming. When the vertical diffusivity is 10 (100) times the present-day value, the magnitude of MOC increases by ≈3 (18) times, and the global-mean surface temperature increases by ≈4 °C (10 °C). This study quantifies the climatic effect of an extremely strong vertical diffusivity and confirms an indirect link between planetary orbit, tidal mixing, ocean circulation, and surface climate. Our results suggest a moderate effect of varying vertical ocean mixing on planetary climate.
Präferenzen von Patienten, pflegenden Angehörigen,
Leistungserbringern, Kostenträgern und politischen
Entscheidungsträgern bei der integrierten Versorgung in Deutschland: Ein
Discrete Choice Experiment
Authors: Struckmann Verena , Vogt Verena , Köppen Julia , Meier Theresa , Hoedemakers Maaike , Leijten Fenna , Looman Willemijn , Karimi Milad , Busse Reinhard , Rutten-van Mölken Maureen
Published: October 2021

Ziel Ziel dieser Studie ist Präferenzen zu erheben, die
multimorbide Patienten, pflegende Angehörige, Leistungserbringer,
Kostenträger oder politische Entscheidungsträger verschiedenen
Endpunkten von integrierten Versorgungsprogrammen (IV-Programmen) in Deutschland
beimessen und diese zu vergleichen.

Methodik Mit Hilfe eines Discrete Choice Experiments (DCE) wurden die
Präferenzen der Befragten für die Endpunkte von zwei
IV-Programmen ermittelt. Jedes IV-Programm wurde anhand von Attributen,
bzw.Endpunkten präsentiert, die das „Triple Aim“
abbilden. Sie waren in die Endpunkte Wohlbefinden, Erfahrung mit Versorgung und
Kosten unterteilt, mit insgesamt acht Attributen und jeweils drei
Ausprägungen.

Ergebnisse Die Ergebnisse von 676 Fragebögen zeigen, dass die
Attribute „Lebensfreude“ und „Kontinuität der
Versorgung“ interessengruppenübergreifend die höchsten
Bewertungen erhalten. Am geringsten blieben die relativen Bewertungen
für alle Interessengruppen bei dem Attribut „Kosten“.
Die Präferenzen der Leistungserbringer und pflegenden
Angehörigen unterschieden sich am deutlichsten von denen der Patienten.
Diese Unterschiede betrafen meist die „körperliche
Funktionsfähigkeit“, die von Patienten am höchsten
bewertet wurde, die „Personenzentrierung“ und
„Kontinuität der Versorgung“, die die höchsten
Bewertungen von den Leistungserbringern erhielten.

Schlussfolgerung Die identifizierten
Präferenzheterogenitäten in Bezug auf die Endpunkte von
IV-Programmen zwischen den Interessengruppen verdeutlichen, wie wichtig es
für eine optimale Ausgestaltung von IV-Programmen ist, Vertreter der
Praxis und politische Entscheidungsträger über die
unterschiedlichen Perspektiven zu informieren. Die Ergebnisse unterstreichen
zudem die Relevanz von gemeinsamen Entscheidungsfindungs- und
Abstimmungsprozessen zwischen Leistungserbringern, pflegenden
Angehörigen und Patienten.
Der Effekt von hochintensivem Kräftigungstraining auf Knieschmerzen und im Kniegelenk auftretende Kräfte bei Erwachsenen mit Kniearthrose
Authors: Scheer Janik
Published: October 2021

Originalpublikation

Messier SP, Mihalko SL, Beavers DP et al. Effect of High-Intensity Strength Training on Knee Pain and Knee Joint Compressive Forces Among Adults With Knee Osteoarthritis. The START Randomized Clinical Trial 2021; 325: 646–657
Hypoxietraining als alternative oder ergänzende Bewegungstherapieform bei Diabetes Typ 2 – eine narrative Übersicht
Authors: Schwarzer Janina , Schröder Jan
Published: October 2021

Dass körperliche Aktivität bei Diabetes Typ 2 ein wichtiger Therapiebaustein ist, ist gut belegt. Das Hypoxietraining als Trainingsform findet derzeit jedoch noch eher wenig Anwendung in der Trainingstherapie. Ziel dieses narrativen Reviews war es zu untersuchen, inwiefern das Hypoxietraining als alternative Therapieform in der Trainingstherapie bei Diabetes-Typ-2-Patienten angewendet werden kann und ob es einen Vorteil zur konventionellen Trainingstherapie bietet.

Für die Literaturrecherche wurden Studien im Zeitraum zwischen 2010 und 2020 identifiziert und auf Relevanz für die Fragestellung hin geprüft. In die Analyse wurden n=8 Studien miteinbezogen. Diese Studien untersuchten besonders den Einfluss des Hypoxietrainings auf kardiovaskuläre Gesundheit, Insulinsensitivität und Glukosestoffwechsel. Die Untersuchungen fanden hauptsächlich in künstlicher Höhe statt. Insgesamt ergaben die Studien durchaus positive Effekte durch Hypoxietraining, sowohl auf die kardiovaskuläre Gesundheit als auch auf die Insulinsensitivität und den Glukosestoffwechsel bei Diabetes-Typ-2-Patienten. So zeigte sich, dass besonders ein kontinuierliches und längeres Training in Hypoxie (60 Minuten) am effektivsten war, um die Insulinsensitivität und den Glukosestoffwechsel kurzfristig (bis zu 48 Stunden) positiv zu beeinflussen. Dennoch fehlen Studien, die die langfristige Wirkung des Hypoxietrainings an Diabetes-Typ-2-Patienten untersuchen. Zudem sollte die Trainingsintensität in der Betrachtung von Studien mehr Bedeutung finden, da sie einen wichtigen Aspekt in der Vergleichbarkeit ausmacht. So können möglicherweise stärkere Effekte des Hypoxietrainings, im Vergleich zum Training in Normoxie, auf eine höhere Belastungsintensität zurückgeführt werden. Es sind somit weitere Untersuchungen nötig, um einen möglichen Vorteil des Hypoxietrainings in der Trainingstherapie für Diabetes-Typ-2-Patienten auszumachen.

Hypoxietraining könnte somit in der Trainingstherapie bei Diabetes Typ 2 als ergänzende Maßnahme zum Einsatz kommen, wenn mögliche Risiken noch besser bekannt sind.
Chancen und Barrieren digitaler Gesundheitsförderung
Authors: Kellner Mona
Published: October 2021

Die Covid-19-Pandemie und die damit einhergehenden Einschränkungen des gewohnten Alltagslebens zwingen auch die Gesundheitsförderung dazu, vermehrt digitalisierte Programme zu entwickeln und anzubieten. Eine Analyse des bisherigen Forschungsstandes zeigt, dass in diesem Forschungsfeld Entwicklungsbedarf besteht. Speziell in Zeiten, in denen sich persönlicher Kontakt negativ auswirken kann, sollte die Digitalisierung rasch vorangetrieben werden. Die aktuelle Corona-Pandemie hat die Nebenwirkung, dass freizeitliches sowie formelles Sporttreiben und auch die Aktivität im gewöhnlichen Alltag voraussichtlich reduziert werden.

Auch Studierende sind in der aktuellen Ausnahmesituation speziellen Anforderungen ausgesetzt. Fehlende Planungssicherheit für die Zukunft, Studieren und Lernen im Homeoffice und mangelnde Sozialkontakte machen dieser Statusgruppe an Hochschulen stark zu schaffen. Auch das Bewegungsverhalten ist durch die Distanz zu Freunden und dem Sportverein ausgesetzt respektive deutlich vermindert: eine dringende Handlungsaufforderung für Gesundheitsförderer im Setting Hochschule!
Schmerzmechanismen und Clinical Reasoning
Authors: Luomajoki Hannu , Schesser Ralf
Published: October 2021

Schmerz ist ein komplexes Konstrukt aus biologischen, psychologischen und
sozialen Faktoren. Mit diesem CPTE-Artikel aktualisieren Sie Ihr Wissen um
periphere und zentrale Schmerzmechanismen im Kontext des strukturierten
Clinical-Reasoning-Prozesses. Das Mature Organism Model (MOM) verdeutlicht
Ihnen die Individualität der Schmerzverarbeitung und -wahrnehmung.
So verstehen Sie die individuelle Schmerzbewältigung einzelner
Patient(inn)en und erkennen den Einfluss psychosozialer Faktoren. Das
Fördern der Selbstwirksamkeit und ein reflektiertes Verhalten von
Therapeut(inn)en sind zentrale Elemente der Therapie.