bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A longitudinal examination of the psychometric properties of the English perceived stress scale‐ four (PSS‐4) in mental health counsellors using item response theory
Authors: Cook Ryan M. , Wind Stefanie A. , Fye Heather J.
Published: September 2024

We examined the longitudinal psychometric properties of the Perceived Stress Scale – 4 items version (PSS‐4) using item response theory with a sample of 361 mental health counsellors. Participants completed the PSS‐4 at three timepoints at six‐month intervals in a one‐year period. There were 290 participants who (80.3%) identified as female, 51 (14.1%) identified as male, eight (2.2%) identified as gender variant/non‐conforming, seven (1.9%) wrote in their own gender identity (e.g., genderqueer, gender expansive), three (0.8%) identified as Transgender male, and two (0.6%) did not respond to the item. The racial and ethnic backgrounds were as follows: White (87.3%), Multiracial (5.5%), Latino or Hispanic or Spanish (2.8%), Black or African American (1.4%), Asian (0.8%), Middle Eastern (0.8%), and five did not respond to the item (1.4%). We found unidimensionality evidence of the PSS‐4 across all three timepoints and response categories were monotonically ordered. We also found that across all timepoints, the average person location was lower than the average item location, suggesting that the PSS‐4 may not be well‐targeted for this sample of mental health counsellors. We observed no significant interactions between timepoints, hours worked per week, and length of employment. Implications of the findings, including a discussion of the utility of the PSS‐4 as a global measure of stress and with mental health counsellors.
Induced Circularly Polarized Luminescence From 0D Quantum Dots by 2D Chiral Nanosheets
Authors: Xiao Yuqi , Shi Aiyan , Yang Guojian , Yu Yang , Nie Quan , Qi Shuyan , Xiang Chaoyu , Zhang Ting
Published: September 2024

Materials with circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) exhibit great application potential in biological scenes such as cell imaging, optical probes, etc. However, most developed materials are non‐aqueous and toxic, which seriously restricts their compatibility with the life systems. Thus, it is necessary to explore a water‐based CPL system with high biocompatibility so that to promote the biologic application process. Herein, a facile and efficient route to achieve the CPL properties of a functional aqueous solution is demonstrated by the combination of 0D quantum dots (QDs) and 2D chiral nanosheets. Benefited by the specific absorption ability of nanosheets for left/right‐handed CPL, the QDs adsorbed onto the surface of nanosheets through hydrogen bond interactions showed apparent CPL features. In addition, this system has a good extensibility as the CPL property can be effectively regulated by changing the kind of emissive QDs. More importantly, this water‐based nano‐composite with facile fabrication process (one‐step mixing) is suitable for the real applications, which is undoubtedly beneficial for the further progress of functional CPL materials.
Flow‐Chemistry Based Green Synthesis of Graphene Oxide at Minutes Timescale
Authors: Yu Xude , Xia Shunkai , Liu Hengyuan , Wu Xingjiang , Xu Jianhong
Published: September 2024

Graphene oxide (GO) is broadly investigated in the electrochemical field. However, for industrial applications, it still suffer from high pollution, low efficiency, poor production quality, and safety concerns associated with traditional synthesis methods. Herein, guided by theoretical analyses, a new oxygen‐atom‐transfer (OAT) mechanism for periodate oxidizing graphite is revealed, exhibiting controllable reaction activity, strong orbital interaction, and abundant electron transfer. Moreover, a flow chemistry strategy with high mass/heat transfer rates is designed to enhance interlayer diffusion and reaction dynamics between oxidants and graphite, ensuring the efficient synthesis of GO within several minutes. As a result, both low oxygen‐content GO with large size, and high oxygen‐content GO with adequate active sites can be precisely and safely synthesized. Benefitting from the controllability of oxygen content and lateral size, the as‐prepared GO sheets can be facilely assembled into fiber/film electrodes that present high mechanical flexibility, large electrical conductivity, and outstanding electrochemical performance.
How the Federal Reserve got so huge, and why and how it can shrink
Authors: Nelson Bill
Published: September 2024

Following the collapse of Lehman Brothers in September 2008, the Federal Reserve underwent a significant shift in how it implemented monetary policy, transitioning to an excessive‐reserves framework that it had deemed too radical and rejected just months prior. This shift involved borrowing excessive reserves from banks, deviating from its traditional method of borrowing only the amount banks needed to meet reserve requirements and address clearing needs. Despite initial intentions to revert to the necessary‐reserves framework, subsequent developments, including three rounds of quantitative easing, led to the permanent adoption of the excessive‐reserves approach in January 2019 by the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC). This decision was a mistake. The framework has not yielded the purported benefits, such as simpler policy implementation, and has required the Fed to be vastly larger than originally anticipated. Advocates of the excessive‐reserves approach argue it aligns with the Friedman rule, but alternatives like a voluntary‐reserve‐requirement regime could achieve similar outcomes without the drawbacks.
‘It's like English is given more emphasis than the topic’: Designing materials in English language teacher education
Authors: Carabantes Luis
Published: September 2024

Despite decades of curricular change and the introduction of language pedagogies emphasising meaning and communication, teachers of English in Chilean schools still tend to favour traditional methods and focus largely on discrete language. Using data from stimulated recalls, interviews and observations with preservice teachers, interviews with teacher educators and schoolteachers and analysis of official documents and materials, the article explores the design of materials by a group of Chilean preservice teachers and identifies why one of the main rationales mediating their materials design is subordinating topics, the content‐related themes guiding lessons, such as culture, historical characters and lifestyles, to discrete language. The preservice teachers' beliefs, their mentoring teachers and contradictions within the national curriculum emerged as pivotal factors reinforcing this phenomenon. Data also suggests that the ways in which teacher education standards are adopted by their teacher education programme could reinforce this subordination of topics, notwithstanding the standards' communicative orientation. The article stresses the need to provide more materials development instruction in teacher education, it highlights the need to re‐evaluate how the standardisation of teacher education is adopted by teacher education institutions and shows that researching materials design can illuminate persisting issues in language education.
Recurrent adult urinary tract infection secondary to unrecognized ureterocele urolithiasis
Authors: Wu Katherine , Jing James
Published: September 2024

Background

A ureterocele is a cystic dilation of the distal ureter, most commonly presenting as a congenital abnormality that may be associated with other renal anomalies. Ureteroceles present in a variety of manifestations in both children and adults, from asymptomatic to significant flank pain with urolithiasis or recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) that often mimic other more common renal pathologies, owing to its challenging clinical diagnosis.

Case Presentation

We report the case of a 78‐year‐old female patient who presented with recurrent UTIs and failure to thrive, complicated by a large stone that first presented in the bladder on computed tomography scan and was later found in the distal right ureter.

Conclusion

This case underscores the varied and often deceptive clinical presentation of ureterocele, stressing the importance of timely diagnosis to prevent secondary complications.
Differential effects of polystyrene microplastics on the adsorption of cadmium and ciprofloxacin by tea leaf litter‐derived magnetic biochar: Influencing factors and mechanisms
Authors: Gong Xiaoming , Chen Ranran , Shi Guanwei , Sun Haibo , Yang Yang , Liang Yunshan , Qin Pufeng , Yang Huilin , Wu Zhibin
Published: September 2024

Water pollution involves the coexistence of microplastics (MPs) and traditional pollutants, and how can MPs influence the adsorption of other pollutants by biochar during the treatment process remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the influence of polystyrene microplastics (PS MPs) on the adsorption of cadmium (Cd) and ciprofloxacin (CIP) by magnetic biochar (MTBC) in the single and binary systems. MTBC was prepared using tea leaf litter; the effects of time, pH, and salt ions on the adsorption behaviors were investigated; and X‐ray photoelectronic spectroscopy (XPS) and density flooding theory analysis were conducted to elucidate the influence mechanisms. Results indicated that PS MPs reduced the pollutants adsorption by MTBC due to the heterogeneous aggregation between PS MPs and MTBC and the surface charge change of MTBC induced by PS MPs. The effects of PS MPs on heavy metals and antibiotics adsorption were distinctly different. PS MPs reduced Cd adsorption on MTBC, which were significantly influenced by the solution pH and salt ions contents, suggesting the participation of electrostatic interaction and ion exchange in the adsorption, whereas the effects of PS MPs on CIP adsorption were inconspicuous. In the hybrid system, PS MPs reduced pollutants adsorption by MTBC with 66.3% decrease for Cd and 12.8% decrease for CIP, and the more remarkable reduction for Cd was due to the predominated physical adsorption, and CIP adsorption was mainly a stable chemisorption. The influence of PS MPs could be resulted from the interaction between PS MPs and MTBC with changing the functional groups and electrostatic potential of MTBC. This study demonstrated that when using biochar to decontaminate wastewater, it is imperative to consider the antagonistic action of MPs, especially for heavy metal removal.

Practitioner Points

Magnetic biochar (MTBC) was prepared successfully using tea leaf litter.

MTBC could be used for cadmium (Cd) and ciprofloxacin (CIP) removal.

Polystyrene microplastics (Ps MPs) reduced Cd/CIP adsorption by MTBC.

Ps MPs effects on Cd adsorption were more obvious than that of CIP.

Ps MPs changed the functional groups and electrostatic potential of MTBC, thus influencing MTBC adsorption.
A note on entanglement entropy and topological defects in symmetric orbifold CFTs
Authors: Gutperle Michael , Li Yan-Yan , Rathore Dikshant , Roumpedakis Konstantinos
Published: September 2024

Abstract

In this brief note we calculate the entanglement entropy in M⊗N/SN symmetric orbifold CFTs in the presence of topological defects, which were recently constructed in [1, 2]. We consider both universal defects which realize Rep(SN) non-invertible symmetry and non-universal defects. We calculate the sub-leading defect entropy/g-factor for defects at the boundary of the entangling surface as well as inside it.
International publication activity in orthopaedic surgery over a ten-year interval
Authors: Michels C. , Frosch K.-H. , Beil F. T. , Debus E. S. , Grundmann R. T.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

International English language publication activities in orthopaedic surgery comparing the years 2008/09 to 2018/19 were analyzed.

Methods

20 international journals listed on PubMed were examined. The impact factor (IF) for each journal was determined using the InCites Journal Citation Report.

Results

9,205 publications in 2008/09 and 15,549 in 2018/19 with 21,435 cumulative IF (CIF) in 2008/09 and 50,552 in 2018/19 were registered. Most publications consisted of narrative reviews (42.0%), followed by clinical studies (22.0%), experimental investigations (16.9%), randomized controlled trials (6.0%), and meta-analyses (5.6%). The highest increase in publications was observed for narrative reviews from 33.5% in 2008/09 to 41.1% in 2018/19. The USA had the highest number of publications (2,981 and 4,796), followed by UK (806 and 879) and Germany (606 and 922) in 2008/09 and 2018/19, resp. Per 1 Mio inhabitants, Switzerland (13.6 and 28.4), Sweden (10.9 and 18.1), the Netherlands (9.6 and 15.4), and Denmark (9.0 and 21.8) were the most productive countries in 2008/09 and 2018/19, resp.

Conclusions

International publishing activity in orthopaedic surgery has increased substantially over the last 10 years. The quality of the published articles has not increased in the same way, as evidenced by the disproportionate rise in narrative reviews. Over the entire period, the US were the leader with respect to number of publications and CIF. In terms of population, however, smaller countries such as Switzerland and Sweden were much more active.
Clopidogrel protects against gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity through targeting oxidative stress, apoptosis, and coagulation pathways
Authors: Akila Asmaa A. , Gad Rania A. , Ewees Mohamed Gamal El-Din , Abdul-Hamid Manal , Abdel-Reheim Eman S.
Published: September 2024

Gentamicin (Genta)-induced nephrotoxicity poses a significant clinical challenge due to its detrimental effects on kidney function. Clopidogrel (Clop), an antiplatelet drug known for its ability to prevent blood clots by inhibiting platelet aggregation, also has potential effects on oxidative stress and cell death. This study investigates Clop’s protective role against Genta-induced nephrotoxicity, emphasizing the importance of the coagulation cascade. The 32 adult male albino rats were randomly assigned to four groups of eight (n = 8). The first group received only the vehicle. Genta was injected intraperitoneally at 100 mg/kg/day for 8 days in the second group. Groups 3 and 4 received oral Clop at 10 and 20 mg/kg/day for 1 week before Genta delivery and throughout the experiment. Renal tissue showed renal function tests, oxidative stress, pro-inflammatory cytokines, apoptotic markers, coagulation profile, and fibrin expression. Clop improved Genta-induced kidney function and histopathology. Clop substantially reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress indicators, pro-apoptotic proteins, and fibrin protein. Clop also significantly boosted renal tissue anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic protein expression. Genta-induced nephrotoxicity involves oxidative stress, apoptosis, and coagulation system activation, according to studies. This study underscores that Genta-induced nephrotoxicity is associated with oxidative stress, apoptosis, and activation of the coagulation system. Clop’s protective effects on nephrons are attributed to its anticoagulant, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties, presenting it as a promising therapeutic strategy against Genta-induced kidney damage.
High proportion of PD-1 and CD39 positive CD8+ tissue resident T lymphocytes correlates with better clinical outcome in resected human oesophageal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Hill Samuel L. , Sugiyarto Gessa , Harrington Jack , James Edward , Underwood Timothy J. , Elliott Tim
Published: September 2024

Objective

To understand the CD8+ tumour infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) compartment of oesophageal adenocarcinoma (OAC) with regards to markers of lymphocyte exhaustion, tissue residency and to identify possible reasons behind differential responses to therapy.

Design

Tumour samples from 44 patients undergoing curative resection for OAC were assessed by flow cytometry for presence of antigen-experienced TILs and markers of activation and exhaustion. Populations of PD-1 and CD39 positive OAC TILs were sorted, and bulk RNA sequencing undertaken using a modified SmartSeq2 protocol. Flow cytometric assessment of functionality was completed.

Results

A higher proportion of antigen experienced CD8+ OAC TILs was associated with improved survival following surgery; while, high double positivity (DP) for PD-1 and CD39 among these TILs also correlated significantly with outcome. These DP TILs possess a minority population which is positive for the markers of exhaustion TIM3 and LAG3. Transcriptomic assessment of the PD-1 and CD39 DP TILs demonstrated enrichment for a tissue resident memory T lymphocyte (TRM) phenotype associated with improved survival in other cancers, reinforced by positivity for the canonical TRM marker CD103 by flow cytometry. This population demonstrated maintained functional capacity both in their transcriptomic profile, and on flow cytometric assessment, as well as preserved proliferative capacity.

Conclusion

Resected OAC are variably infiltrated by PD-1 and CD39 DP TILs, an abundance of which among lymphocytes is associated with improved survival. This DP population has an increased, but still modest, frequency of TIM3 and LAG3 positivity compared to DN, and is in keeping with a functionally competent TRM phenotype.
Global survey on point-of-care ultrasound (pocus) use in child surgery
Authors: Naidoo Gerlin , Salim Mohammed , Jackson Andrew , Handa Ashok , Lakhoo Kokila , Lindert Judith
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To undertake a global assessment of existing ultrasound practices, barriers to access, point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) training pathways, and the perceived clinical utility of POCUS in Child Surgery.

Methods

An electronic survey was disseminated via the GICS (Global Initiative of Children’s Surgery) network. 247 anonymized responses from 48 countries were collated. 71.3% (176/247) worked in child surgery.

Results

Ultrasound was critical to practice with 84% (147/176) of requesting one daily or multiple times per week. Only 10% (17/176) could access emergency ultrasound < 1 h from request. The main barrier was a lack of trained personnel. HIC surgeons were more likely to have ultrasound training (24/29; 82.8%) compared with LMICs (74/147; 50.3%) (p = .001319; CI 95%). Self-perceived POCUS competence was associated with regularity of POCUS use (p < 0.001; CI 95%). Those who already practice POCUS most commonly use it for trauma, intussusception, and ultrasound-guided procedures. Majority (90%; 159/176) of child surgeons would attend formal POCUS training if available.

Conclusions

Ultrasound is critically important in children’s surgery globally, however, many surgeons experience barriers to timely access. There is a strong interest in learning POCUS for relevant pediatric surgical applications. Further research is needed to evaluate the best methods of training, accreditation, and governance.
Association of family history with patient characteristics and prognosis in a large European gastroesophageal cancer cohort
Authors: Puhr Hannah C. , Berchtold Luzia , Zingerle Linda , Felfernig Melanie , Weissenbacher Lisa , Jomrich Gerd , Asari Reza , Schoppmann Sebastian F. , Prager Gerald W. , Bergen Elisabeth S. , Berghoff Anna S. , Preusser Matthias , Ilhan-Mutlu Aysegül
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The role of the family history in the development and prognosis of gastroesophageal cancer is a controversially discussed topic as appropriate data from western cohorts are lacking. This study aims to explore its associations with disease and outcome parameters in a large European cohort.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed self-reported family history in patients with gastroesophageal cancer treated between 1 January 1990 and 31 December 2021 at the Medical University of Vienna. Association analyses with patient characteristics, tumor characteristics, symptoms and overall survival (OS) were performed.

Results

In our cohort of 1762 gastroesophageal cancer patients, 592 (34%) reported a positive family history of cancer (159, 9%, gastroesophageal cancer). No associations were found with histopathological parameters or initial symptoms; however, a positive family history correlated with female gender (cancer in general: p = 0.011; gastroesophageal cancer: p = 0.015). Family history of cancer in general was associated with earlier cancer stages (p = 0.04), higher BMI (p = 0.005), and alcohol consumption (p = 0.010), while a positive history for gastroesophageal cancer was associated with higher age at diagnosis (p = 0.002) and stomach cancer (p = 0.002). There was no statistically significant association of positive family history with OS (p = 0.1, p = 0.45), also not in subgroups for histology (adeno and squamous cell), number of family members and degree of relative.

Conclusion

Our results emphasize that a positive family history is neither statistically significantly associated with prognosis nor with specific histopathological features in patients with gastroesophageal cancer. Yet, associations with distinct patient characteristics and positive family history indicate that specific subgroups might profit from endoscopic surveillance. Prospective studies are warranted to investigate these findings further.
UV-C Irradiation Can Reduce Growth of Phoma lingam in Vitro and in Planta on Oilseed Rape Brassica napus
Authors: Hahlbohm Aileen , Struck Christine , Dobers Eike Stefan , Strehlow Becke
Published: September 2024

The short-wave and highly energetic ultraviolet‑C (UV-C) radiation has a disinfectant effect on various microorganisms. It is also known that UV‑C radiation can have an effect on stimulating plant defense. In this study, we used the phytopathogen Phoma lingam as a model organism to examine UV‑C at a wavelength of 254 nm application as an alternative to control this pathogen in Brassica napus. The aim of the study was to determine direct effects on the pathogen and indirect effects of stimulating the plant defense. Mycelia of P. lingam were grown in vitro and treated with different doses of UV‑C (0.015–1.57 kJ/m2). Mycelia diameters were then measured 1, 2, and 7 days after UV‑C treatment. In the in planta tests, cotyledons were injured by a needle and inoculated with 10
6
spore suspension of P. lingam. To determine the direct effects the oilseed rape seedlings were treated with different UV‑C doses (0.2–1.5 kJ/m2) 1, 3, or 7 days after inoculation with P. lingam. To investigate the indirect effects the UV‑C treatments (0.2–1.5 kJ/m2) were applied 1, 3, or 7 days before inoculation with P. lingam. The in vitro experiments showed a significant reduction in mycelia growth on agar plates one and two days after UV‑C treatment. However, the fungal growth recovered; after 7 days no significant differences were detectable. The in planta results showed an effect on disease severity affected by the application time of UV‑C treatment and the applied UV‑C dose. UV‑C application 1 day before inoculation significantly increased the disease severity. Whereas, UV‑C treatment 7 days before inoculation with a UV‑C dose of 0.8 kJ/m2 reduced the disease severity by 44%. If the UV‑C application was done after inoculation, the disease severity could be reduced by approximately 68% at a dose of 0.8 kJ/m2 1 day after inoculation. The results of the study show, that UV‑C treatment can stimulate plant defense and damage the pathogen directly.
Can written prompts help medical residents to accurately monitor their own communication skills and those of others?
Authors: de Meijer F. O. , Nyamu N. , de Bruin A. B. H.
Published: September 2024

In healthcare, effective communication in complex situations such as end of life conversations is critical for delivering high quality care. Whether residents learn from communication training with actors depends on whether they are able to select appropriate information or ‘predictive cues’ from that learning situation that accurately reflect their or their peers’ performance and whether they use those cues for ensuing judgement. This study aimed to explore whether prompts can help medical residents improving use of predictive cues and judgement of communication skills. First and third year Kenyan residents (N = 41) from 8 different specialties were randomly assigned to one of two experimental groups during a mock OSCE assessing advanced communication skills. Residents in the intervention arm received paper predictive cue prompts while residents in the control arm received paper regular prompts for self-judgement. In a pre- and post- test, residents’ use of predictive cues and the appropriateness of peer-judgements were evaluated against a pre-rated video of another resident. The intervention improved both the use of predictive cues in self-judgement and peer-judgement. Ensuing accuracy of peer-judgements in the pre- to post-test only partly improved: no effect from the intervention was found on overall appropriateness of judgements. However, when analyzing participants’ completeness of judgements over the various themes within the consultation, a reduction in inappropriate judgments scores was seen in the intervention group. In conclusion, predictive cue prompts can help learners to concentrate on relevant cues when evaluating communication skills and partly improve monitoring accuracy. Future research should focus on offering prompts more frequently to evaluate whether this increases the effect on monitoring accuracy in communication skills.
Identifying the Health Educational Needs of Refugees: Empirical Evidence from a Delphi Study
Authors: Harjani Maxine G. , Stathakarou Natalia , Konstantinidis Stathis Th. , Dratsiou Ioanna , Varella Annita , Salcedo Vicente Traver , Segura Segura María , Tsoupouroglou Iraklis , Bamidis Panagiotis D. , Karlgren Klas
Published: September 2024

Refugees experience poorer health outcomes especially which can be exacerbated by or can be a result of low health literacy of refugee populations. To address poor health outcomes, health literacy, and health usage in refugee populations, it is essential to develop health educational interventions for refugees’ healthcare integration. To do so, learning objectives must be identified based on refugees’ health knowledge gaps. Therefore, the overall aim of this study is to identify these knowledge gaps. A modified Delphi method was employed for this study with three rounds of survey: the first to identify learning objectives, the second to prioritise learning objectives, and the third to categorise the learning objectives as not recommended, partially recommended, or highly recommended. An overarching theme of utilising the healthcare system and its various services effectively and efficiently was recognised to be an important learning objective for educational interventions to address refugees’ health integration. Overall, learning objectives within the theme self-care and preventative health were ranked as most important.
Determinants to Tele-Mental Health Services Utilization Among California Adults: Do Immigration-Related Variables Matter?
Authors: Siddiq Hafifa , Choi Kristen R. , Jackson Nicholas , Saadi Altaf , Gelberg Lillian , Ponce Ninez A. , Takada Sae
Published: September 2024

To investigate the relationship of predisposing, enabling, need, and immigration-related factors to tele-mental health services utilization among California adults, we conducted a secondary analysis of two waves of the California Health Interview Survey (CHIS) collected between 2015 and 2018 (N = 78,345). A series of logistic regression models were conducted to examine correlates and predictors to tele-mental health services use. Approximately 1.3% reported the use of tele-mental health services. Overall, health insurance status, severe psychological distress, perceived need for mental health services, and identifying as Asian, remained strong predictors for tele-mental health service use. When accounting for all factors, we found that being a non-citizen was associated with lower odds of tele-mental health service use (AOR = 0.47, CI = 0.26, 0.87, p < 0.05). These findings suggest that citizenship, resources to access, and perceived need for mental health care collectively are the most significant factors driving the use of tele-mental health services. There is a need to address inequitable access to tele-mental health services among immigrants who do not qualify for healthcare coverage due to citizenship status.
Full-Scale Readout Electronics for the ECHo Experiment
Authors: Muscheid Timo , Gartmann Robert , Karcher Nick , Schuderer Felix , Neidig Martin , Balzer Matthias , Ardila-Perez Luis E. , Kempf Sebastian , Sander Oliver
Published: September 2024

Recent advances in the development of cryogenic particle detectors such as magnetic microcalorimeters allow the fabrication of sensor arrays with an increasing number of pixels. Since these detectors must be operated at the lowest temperatures, the readout of large detector arrays is still quite challenging. This is especially true for the ECHo experiment, which presently aims to simultaneously run 6,000 two pixel detectors to investigate the electron neutrino mass. For this reason, we developed a readout system based on a microwave SQUID multiplexer ($$\mu$$
μ
MUX) that is operated by a custom software-defined radio (SDR) at room-temperature. The SDR readout electronics consist of three distinct hardware units: a data processing board with a Xilinx ZynqUS+ MPSoC; a converter board that features DACs, ADCs, and a coherent clock distribution network; and a radio frequency front-end board to translate the signals between the baseband and the microwave domains. Here, we describe the characteristics of the full-scale SDR system. First, the generated frequency comb for driving the $$\mu$$
μ
MUX was evaluated. Subsequently, by operating the SDR in direct loopback, the crosstalk of the individual channels after frequency demultiplexing was investigated. Finally, the system was used with a 16-channel $$\mu$$
μ
MUX to evaluate the linearity of the SDR, and the noise contributed to the overall readout setup.
Multiscale Parametrization Of a Friction Model For Metal Cutting Using Contact Mechanics, Atomistic Simulations, And Experiments
Authors: Holey Hannes , Sauer Florian , Ganta Prasanth Babu , Mayrhofer Leonhard , Dienwiebel Martin , Schulze Volker , Moseler Michael
Published: September 2024

In this study, we developed and parametrized a friction model for finite element (FE) cutting simulations of AISI4140 steel, combining experimental data and numerical simulations at various scales. Given the severe thermomechanical loads during cutting, parametrization of friction models based on analogous experiments has been proven difficult, such that the cutting process itself is often used for calibration. Instead, our model is based on the real area of contact between rough surfaces and the stress required to shear adhesive micro contacts. We utilized microtextured cutting tools and their negative imprint on chips to orient chip and tool surfaces, enabling the determination of a combined surface roughness. This effective roughness was then applied in contact mechanics calculations using a penetration hardness model informed by indentation hardness measurements. Consistent with Bowden and Tabor theory, we observed that the fractional contact area increased linearly with the applied normal load, and the effective roughness remained insensitive to cutting fluid application. Additionally, we calculated the required shear stress as a function of normal load using DFT-based molecular dynamics simulations for a tribofilm formed at the interface, with its composition inferred from ex-situ XPS depth profiling of the cutting tools. Our friction model demonstrated good agreement with experimental results in two-dimensional FE chip forming simulations of orthogonal cutting processes, evaluated by means of cutting force, passive force, and contact length prediction. This work presents a proof of concept for a physics-based approach to calibrate constitutive models in metal cutting, potentially advancing the use of multiscale and multiphysical simulations in machining.

Graphical abstract
Static and derived-dynamic hand grip strength in elite female cadet judo athletes: comparing medalist and non-medalist
Authors: Demiral Şengül , Naziroğlu Meltem , Kurt İlke , Özbar Nurper , Fukuda David H.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The present study aims to investigate the effect of anthropometric and strength parameters on the likelihood of competitive success in female cadet judo athletes.

Methods

Measurements, including body height (cm), body mass (kg), BMI (kg/m2), sitting height (cm), arm span (cm), measured hand grip strength, and dynamic-derived grip strength, were performed for 64 female judo athletes who were placed in the top 8 of the cadet national championships. The judo athletes were divided into two groups (medalist and non-medalist) for analysis.

Results

The mean values of height and arm span for judo athletes who won medals were found to be significantly different when compared to those who did not (p < 0.05). However, no significant difference was found in measured or derived-dynamic hand grip strength (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Hand grip strength, BMI, and sitting height parameters may not be indicative of medal-winning performance in female cadet judo athletes. The higher values of height and arm span in judo athletes who won medals, among those who did not, indicate that upper body anthropometrics may be associated with competition outcomes.
Integrating Student Response Technology into a Large Undergraduate Course: Students’ Perceptions of their Motivations and Feedback
Authors: Matteson Scott , Grant Michael M.
Published: September 2024

The purpose of this research was to explore how and in what ways students perceived the integration of student response technology, case studies, and discussions in a largely populated undergraduate course in management of human services at a large midwestern university affected their motivation, interest, and feedback. Qualitative data collection consisted of written artifacts (n = 56) and one-on-one interviews (n = 8). The qualitative findings showed that student response technology increased motivation and influenced learning with enjoyment, interest, and inclusion; and instructional feedback was perceived as immediate, constructive, and from various sources. In addition, a discussion, implications, and limitations are presented.
Similarities and differences between European guidelines for the management of postmenopausal osteoporosis
Authors: Cortet Bernard , Guañabens Núria , Brandi Maria Luisa , Siggelkow Heide
Published: September 2024

We conducted a review of 10 national guidelines from five EU countries to identify similarities or differences in recommendations for the management of patients with osteoporosis. We found general alignment of key recommendations; however, there are notable differences, largely attributed to country-specific approaches to risk assessment and reimbursement conditions.

Introduction

The classification of fracture risk is critical for informing treatment decisions for post-menopausal osteoporosis. The aim of this review was to summarise 10 national guidelines from five European countries, with a focus on identifying similarities or differences in recommendations for the management of patients with osteoporosis.

Methods

We summarised the European Society for Clinical and Economic Aspects of Osteoporosis, Osteoarthritis and Musculoskeletal Disease-International Osteoporosis Foundation guidelines and reviewed guidelines from France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK.

Results

The approach to risk assessment differed across the guidelines. In France, and Spain, risk assessment was based on DXA scans and presence of prior fractures, whereas UK, German and Italian guidelines recommended use of a validated risk tool. These differences led to distinct definitions of very high and high-risk patients. Guidelines aligned in recommending antiresorptive and anabolic agents as pharmacologic options for the management of osteoporosis, with sequential treatment recommended. There was agreement that patients at high or very high risk of fracture or with severe osteoporosis should receive anabolic agents first, followed by antiresorptive drugs. Variations were identified in recommendations for follow up of patients on anti-osteoporosis therapies. Reimbursement conditions in each country were a key difference identified.

Conclusions

Criteria for risk assessment of fractures differ across European guidelines which may impact treatment and access to anabolic agents. Harmonisation across EU guidelines may help identify patients eligible for treatment and impact treatment uptake. However, country-specific reimbursement and prescribing processes may present a challenge to achieving a consistent approach across Europe.
Clinical characteristics and risk factors of osteoporosis among older Asian men with type-2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, or hyperlipidaemia
Authors: Tan Yu Quan , Ng Ding Xuan , Gunasekaran Kalaipriya , Lim Weai Ling , Tan Ngiap Chuan
Published: September 2024

Summary

This study investigated osteoporosis risk factors among older Asian men with type-2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, or hyperlipidaemia in primary care. Advanced age, dementia, depression, and polypharmacy were associated with higher risks for osteoporosis. Screening strategies targeting these factors are crucial for improving bone health as part of comprehensive preventive care.

Purpose

Asian patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), hypertension, or hyperlipidaemia (DHL) are predominantly managed in primary care. They are also at risk of osteoporosis, but men are often under-screened and under-treated for this preventable bone disorder. This study aimed to identify the clinical characteristics and risk factors of osteoporosis among older men with DHL in primary care for early intervention.

Methods

This retrospective study included men aged 65 years and older managed in public primary care clinics for their DHL between 1st July 2017 and 30th June 2018. Demographic, clinical, laboratory, and imaging data were extracted from their electronic medical records based on their International Classification of Diseases-10 (ICD-10) diagnosis codes. Descriptive statistical analyses, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05, were conducted, followed by generalized estimating equation (GEE) modelling.

Results

Medical records of 17,644 men (83.1% Chinese, 16.9% minority ethnic groups, median age 71 years) were analysed. 2.3% of them had diagnosis of osteoporosis, 0.15% had fragility fracture, and 26.0% of those diagnosed with osteoporosis were treated with bisphosphonates. Their mean HbA1c was 6.9%; mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure were 133 and 69 mmHg. The GEE model showed that age (OR = 1.07, 95%CI = 1.05–1.09, p < 0.001), dementia (OR = 2.24, 95%CI = 1.33–3.77, p = 0.002), depression (OR = 2.38, 95%CI = 1.03–5.50, p = 0.043), and polypharmacy (OR = 6.85, 95%CI = 3.07–15.26, p < 0.001) were significantly associated with higher risks for osteoporosis.

Conclusion

Age, dementia, depression, and polypharmacy are associated with osteoporosis risks in men with DHL. Strategies to incorporate osteoporosis screening among older men with these risk factors are needed to improve their bone health.
Donation After Circulatory Death following Withdrawal of Life-Sustaining Treatments. Are We Ready to Break the Dead Donor Rule?
Authors: Patuzzo Manzati Sara , Galeone Antonella , Onorati Francesco , Luciani Giovanni Battista
Published: September 2024

A fundamental criterion considered essential to deem the procedure of vital organ procurement for transplantation ethical is that the donor must be dead, as per the Dead Donor Rule (DDR). In the case of Donation after Circulatory Death (DCD), is the donor genuinely dead? The main aim of this article is to clarify this uncertainty, which primarily arises from the fact that in DCD, death is determined based on cardiac criteria (Circulatory Death, CD), rather than neurological criteria (Brain Death, BD), and that to allow the procurement procedure, physicians reperfuse the organs in an assisted manner. To ensure that the cessation of circulation leads to the irreversible loss of brain functions, DCD regulations require that physicians wait a certain period after CD before commencing vital organ procurement. However, during this “no-touch period,” the organs are at risk of damage, potentially rendering them unsuitable for transplantation. When DCD is performed on patients whose CD follows a Withdrawal of Life-Sustaining Treatment (WLST) (DCD Maastricht III category), how long should the no-touch period last? Does its existence really make sense? Does beginning the procedure of vital organ procurement immediately after WLST constitute a violation of the DDR that can be ethically justified? The discussion aims to provide arguments in support of the non-absoluteness of the DDR.
Functional correlation tensors in brain white matter and the effects of normal aging
Authors: Xu Lyuan , Gao Yurui , Li Muwei , Lawless Richard , Zhao Yu , Schilling Kurt G. , Rogers Baxter P. , Anderson Adam W. , Ding Zhaohua , Landman Bennett A. , Gore John C.
Published: September 2024

Resting state correlations between blood oxygenation level dependent (BOLD) MRI signals from voxels in white matter (WM) are demonstrably anisotropic, so that functional correlation tensors (FCT) may be used to quantify the underlying microstructure of BOLD effects in WM tracts. However, the overall spatial distribution of FCTs and their metrics in specific populations has not yet been established, and the factors that affect their precise arrangements remain unclear. Changes in WM occur with normal aging, and these may be expected to affect FCTs. We hypothesized that FCTs exhibit a characteristic spatial pattern and may show systematic changes with aging or other factors. Here we report our analyses of the FCT characteristics of fMRI images of a large cohort of 461 cognitively normal subjects (190 females, 271 males) sourced from the Open Access Series of Imaging Studies (OASIS), with age distributions of 42 y/o – 95 y/o. Group averages and statistics of FCT indices, including axial functional correlations, radial functional correlations, mean functional correlations and fractional anisotropy, were quantified in WM bundles defined by the JHU ICBM-DTI-81 WM atlas. In addition, their variations with normal aging were examined. The results revealed a dimorphic distribution of changes in FCT metrics with age, with decreases of the functional correlations in some regions and increases in others. Supplementary analysis revealed that females exhibited significant age effects on a greater number of WM areas, but the interaction between age and sex was not significant. The findings demonstrate the reproducibility of the spatial distribution of FCT metrics and reveal subtle regional changes with age.
Die Volkswirtschaftlichen Gesamtrechnungen in Zeiten der Pandemie – wurden alle Herausforderungen gemeistert?
Authors: Richter Josef
Published: September 2024

Die Corona-Pandemie hat die amtliche Statistik und insbesondere die Volkswirtschaftlichen Gesamtrechnungen vor gewaltige Aufgaben gestellt. Es galt neue, vorher nie beobachtete Phänomene in das System zu integrieren und es musste mit fehlenden und geänderten Datengrundlagen operiert werden. Gleichzeitig waren unter erschwerten Bedingungen die legitimen Informationsbedürfnisse der Allgemeinheit und der Entscheidungsträger zu befriedigen. Zudem wurden auch grundlegende Konzeptfragen, die üblicherweise vernachlässigt werden können, virulent. So war die Frage zu beantworten, ob es Preise geben kann, wenn keine Transaktionen stattfinden und es galt sich darüber klar zu werden, welcher Produktionsbegriff eigentlich operationalisiert werden soll.

Im System der Volkswirtschaftlichen Gesamtrechnungen ist sowohl ein technischer Produktionsbegriff als auch ein ökonomischer Produktionsbegriff präsent, wie an Hand ausgewählter Bestimmungen näher gezeigt wird. Unter Normalbedingungen werden sich bei beiden Ansätzen ähnliche Ergebnisse ergeben. Wie in dem Beitrag illustriert wird, können unter den besonderen Umständen der Pandemie freilich größere Unterschiede resultieren.

Unter dem Druck der Ereignisse wurde in der Pandemie ein sehr pragmatisches Vorgehen gewählt und die Nichtbefassung mit zentralen Konzeptfragen auch damit entschuldigt, dass die Auswirkungen auf die großen Aggregate gering sind. Für die Erfüllung der Aufgabe des Monitoring und für die dominierenden operationalen Funktionen der Daten trifft dies sicher zu. Die Gesamtrechnungen haben aber auch eine wichtige Rolle als empirische Grundlage der Wirtschaftsforschung zu spielen. In diesem Zusammenhang hätten die Konzeptfragen mehr Aufmerksamkeit verdient. Ungenügend wurde auch die Herausforderung bewältigt, die Nutzer adäquat zu informieren. In der Präsentation der Ergebnisse wurden die durch die spezifisch Situation bedingten unterschiedlichen Charakteristika der Resultate für die Pandemieperioden meist ausgeblendet.
I don’t care, I share! – The importance of self-disclosure overwrites the risks of sharing on Social Media
Authors: Fejes-Vékássy Lili , Ujhelyi Adrienn , Lantos Nóra Anna
Published: September 2024

High levels of self-disclosure on different Social Media platforms are part of our everyday lives nowadays. Users tend to share detailed information about their personal lives willingly while often underestimating its negative consequences. Previous studies emphasize the complexity of the processes of online self-disclosure. Our aim with this current research is to examine how online self-disclosure is influenced by different psychological factors: the attitude towards the value of the users’ own data, perceived control over personal information and perceived risks associated with sharing on Social Media, with a multimethod study. In Study 1, a qualitative approach was introduced (N = 37), in Study 2, we conducted an online survey on a representative sample (N = 1597). In Study 1, we found that participants often underestimate the value of their own personal data and its usability by others. This (incorrect) interpretation gives them an increased sense of confidence about the security of their personal data in online contexts and facilitates them to share personal information on Social Media. In line with this, in Study 2 we found that the more the participants engage in self-disclosure on Social Media, the less risky they perceive their online activity. This suggests, the importance of sharing may overwrite the risks of sharing. Our results also show that higher engagement in online self-disclosure comes with a higher sense of control, which in turn decreases risk perception on Social Media sites. In sum, processes of self-disclosure on Social Media are influenced by not just the users’ sense of control and risk perception but their perceptions towards the value of their own personal data.
The influence of age on the relationship between future anxiety, loneliness, and quality of life: evidence from a sample of 5409 individuals in the general population in Italy
Authors: Jannini Tommaso B. , Mordacchini Ilaria , Rossi Rodolfo , Socci Valentina , Lorenzo Giorgio Di
Published: September 2024

Future anxiety (FA), characterized by apprehension about unfavorable changes in the near and distant future, intersects with loneliness and quality of life (QoL). Moreover, it is widely established that aging may influence both loneliness and QoL. Despite acknowledging the impact of FA on QoL, the underlying mechanisms of this relationship are poorly understood. In this study involving 5409 participants (82.12% females), FA, loneliness, and QoL scales were employed to construct a moderated mediation model. FA served as the exogenous variable, QoL as the outcome, and loneliness as the mediator, with age introduced as a moderator. Results showed a direct negative effect of FA on QoL (b=-0.449; p < 0.001) and an indirect effect through loneliness (b=-0.133; p < 0.001). Furthermore, this relationship was negatively moderated by age, suggesting that older individuals, potentially due to greater social connection and support than younger individuals, exhibit a buffering effect, mitigating the impact of future anxiety on their QoL.