bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender‐focused or gender mainstreaming programmes? The gender dimension of international aid
Authors: Su Fang‐Ying , Yang Wan‐Ying
Published: February 2023

Aid in support of gender equality and women's empowerment has gathered significant momentum over the past decade and has also sparked a renewed debate over the effectiveness of foreign aid. Is gender aid a panacea that will help the recipient countries confront the challenges of the gender inequality deeply ingrained in their societies, or is it just a placebo pretending to be effective? Is there any difference between gender‐focused aid and gender mainstreaming aid in terms of aid effectiveness? To answer these key questions, this article examines the impact of gender aid on gender inequality using a sample of 116 recipient countries that covers the period from 2010 to 2019. By adopting a hybrid method that incorporates fixed‐ and random‐effects models, we obtain results indicating that increasing amounts of gender mainstreaming aid over time successfully reduce gender inequality and close the gender gap. In stark contrast, gender‐focused aid lacks the statistical significance needed to prove its potency. In addition to confirming gender aid's effectiveness, this article provides further policy implications regarding the gender mainstreaming strategy in the field of international development, particularly when considered in the context of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Cross‐reactivity of SARS‐CoV‐2 with other pathogens, especially dengue virus: A historical perspective
Authors: Dutta Debrupa , Ghosh Anisa , Dutta Chiroshri , Sukla Soumi , Biswas Subhajit
Published: February 2023

Dengue is a vector‐borne viral disease caused by a Flavivirus whereas the COVID‐19 pandemic was caused by a highly contagious virus, SARS‐CoV‐2 belonging to the family Coronaviridae. However, COVID‐19 severity was observably less in dengue‐endemic countries and vice versa especially during the active years of the pandemic (2019–2021). We observed that dengue virus (DENV) antibodies (Abs) could cross‐react with SARS‐CoV‐2 spike antigen. This resulted in SARS‐CoV‐2 false positivity by rapid Ab test kits. DENV Abs binding to SARS‐CoV‐2 receptor‐binding domain (and the reverse scenario), as revealed by docking studies further validated DENV and SARS‐CoV‐2 cross‐reactivity. Finally, SARS‐CoV‐2 Abs were found to cross‐neutralize DENV1 and DENV2 in virus neutralization test (VNT). Abs to other pathogens like Plasmodium were also cross‐reactive but non‐neutralizing for SARS‐CoV‐2. Here, we analyze the existing data on SARS‐CoV‐2 cross‐reactivity with other pathogens, especially dengue to assess its impact on health (cross‐protection?) and differential sero‐diagnosis/surveillance.
Immunogenicity of novel DNA vaccines encoding receptor‐binding domain (RBD) dimer‐Fc fusing antigens derived from different SARS‐CoV‐2 variants of concern
Authors: Zhang Ting , Wang Zhirong , Yang Jiaojiao , Xu Xuemei
Published: February 2023

The continuously emerging of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 variants of concern (VOCs) led to a decline in effectiveness of the first‐generation vaccines. Therefore, optimized vaccines and vaccination strategies, which show advantages in protecting against VOCs, are urgently needed. Here we constructed an optimized DNA vaccine plasmid containing built‐in CpG adjuvant, and designed vaccine candidates encoding five forms of antigens derived from Wuhan‐Hu‐1. The results showed that plasmid with receptor binding domain (RBD) dimer‐Fc fusing antigen (2RBD‐Fc) induced the highest level of RBD‐specific IgG and neutralizing antibodies in mice. Then 2dRBD‐Fc and 2omRBD‐Fc vaccines, respectively derived from delta and omicron VOCs, were constructed. The 2dRBD‐Fc induced potent humoral and cellular immune responses, while the immunogenicity of 2omRBD‐Fc was low. We also observed that sequential immunization with 2RBD‐Fc, 2dRBD‐Fc and 2omRBD‐Fc effectively elicited neutralizing antibodies against each immunized strain, and RBD‐specific T cell responses. To be noted, the Wuhan‐Hu‐1, delta and omicron neutralizing antibody titers induced by sequential immunization were comparable to that induced by repetitive immunization with 2RBD‐Fc, 2dRBD‐Fc or 2omRBD‐Fc respectively. The results suggest that sequential immunization with DNA vaccines encoding potent antigens derived from different VOCs, may be a promising strategy to elicit immune responses against multiple variants.
Whole‐genome single molecule real‐time sequencing of SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron
Authors: Nicot Florence , Trémeaux Pauline , Latour Justine , Carcenac Romain , Demmou Sofia , Jeanne Nicolas , Ranger Noémie , De Smet Clémentine , Raymond Stéphanie , Dimeglio Chloé , Izopet Jacques
Published: February 2023

New variants and genetic mutations of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) genome can only be identified using accurate sequencing methods. Single molecule real‐time (SMRT) sequencing has been used to characterize Alpha and Delta variants, but not Omicron variants harboring numerous mutations in the SARS‐CoV‐2 genome. This study assesses the performance of a target capture SMRT sequencing protocol for whole genome sequencing (WGS) of SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron variants and compared it to that of an amplicon SMRT sequencing protocol optimized for Omicron variants. The failure rate of the target capture protocol (6%) was lower than that of the amplicon protocol (34%, p < 0.001) on our data set, and the median genome coverage with the target capture protocol (98.6% [interquartile range (IQR): 86–99.4]) was greater than that with the amplicon protocol (76.6% [IQR: 66–89.6], [p < 0.001]). The percentages of samples with >95% whole genome coverage were 64% with the target capture protocol and 19% with the amplicon protocol (p < 0.05). The clades of 96 samples determined with both protocols were 93% concordant and the lineages of 59 samples were 100% concordant. Thus, target capture SMRT sequencing appears to be an efficient method for WGS, genotyping and detecting mutations of SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron variants.
Projected changes in synoptic circulations over Europe and their implications for summer precipitation: A CMIP6 perspective
Authors: Herrera‐Lormendez Pedro , John Amal , Douville Hervé , Matschullat Jörg
Published: February 2023

Projected changes in summer precipitation deficits partly depend on alterations in synoptic circulations. Here, the automated Jenkinson–Collison classification is used to assess the ability of 21 global climate models (GCMs) to capture the frequency of recurring circulation types (CTs) and their implications for European daily precipitation amounts in summer (JJA). The ability of the GCMs to reproduce the observed present‐day climate features is evaluated first. Most GCMs capture the observed links between the mean CTs directional flow characteristics and the occurrence of dry days and related dry months. The most robust relationships are found for anticyclonic and easterly CTs which are generally associated with higher‐than‐average occurrences of dry conditions. Future changes in summer CTs' frequencies are estimated in the high‐emission SSP5‐8.5 scenario for the sake of a high signal‐to‐noise ratio. Our results reveal consistent changes, mainly in the zonal CTs. A robust decrease in frequency of the westerlies and an increase in the frequency of easterly CTs favour more continental, dry and warm air masses over central Europe. These dynamical changes are shown to enhance the projected summer drying over central and southern Europe.
Dynamic downscaling of climate simulations and projected changes in tropical South America using RegCM4.7
Authors: da Silva Maria Leidinice , de Oliveira Cristiano Prestrelo , Santos e Silva Cláudio Moisés , de Araújo João Medeiros
Published: February 2023

High‐resolution (dx = 25 km) simulations of the regional climate model RegCM4.7 coupled with the Community Land Model version 4.5 (CLM4.5) under low (RCP2.6) and high (RCP8.5) emissions scenarios, which interact with the Fifth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (AR5‐IPCC), were carried out over tropical South America (TSA). These simulations were produced through boundary conditions from simulations driven by the general circulation model HadGEM2‐ES. With the goal of verifying the added value (AV) of RegCM4.7, reproducing in an adequate and coherent way the regional aspects of the historical period (1986–2005), as well as evaluating the regional aspects simulated by the model in the scope of the change projections for the far‐future (2080–2099). For this study, the climate in the TSA was characterized based on the variables of precipitation and near‐surface air temperature. For the evaluation of the spatial–temporal representation, frequency and distribution of the regional and global simulation, the high‐resolution observational dataset of the Climate Research Unit version ts4.02 (CRU) was used. Although some differences and biases still persist, RegCM4.7 presents AV in the spatial representation of precipitation and temperature over the northeast region of Brazil and part of the Andes, especially in winter. However, it does not adequately represent precipitation over the Amazon Basin, especially in summer. Results for future projections indicate that the more refined simulation of RegCM4.7 improves the projected change patterns of the coarser resolution simulation of HadGEM2‐ES and even modifies the precipitation signal in some cases. Both models project increase temperature with greater magnitude for RCP8.5. RegCM4.7 presents a much more refined and realistic spatial distribution. HadGEM2‐ES simulates the major aspects of climate enough to consider forcing RegCM4.7 to generate simulations with better performance and more realistic projections.
World Reference Base for Soil Resources—Its fourth edition and its history
Authors: Schad Peter
Published: February 2023

The fourth edition of the international soil classification system World Reference Base for Soil Resources (WRB) was released in 2022. It maintains the 32 Reference Soil Groups at the first classification level. Most qualifiers (second level) and most diagnostic horizons, properties and materials were maintained but some were abolished and new ones introduced. The main part of the fourth edition is followed by six annexes, most of them are new. For the first time, the WRB has a Field Guide (Annex 1) to facilitate field survey and to assure that all field characteristics required in the classification are reported. The fourth edition also provides designations for horizons and layers (Annex 3), which was not the case in the second and the third edition. The wordings of the definitions were harmonized, and the same features are worded in the same way throughout the text (including the annexes). Ambiguities have been corrected and many definitions written in a more concise and a more didactical way. The WRB has a long history. Four editions have been published: 1998, 2006 (with update 2007), 2014 (with update 2015) and 2022. Editor is the Working Group WRB of the International Union of Soil Sciences. The WRB followed the Legend and the Revised Legend of the Soil Map of the World. This map was edited by FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations) and UNESCO, and the system is known as the FAO Soil Classification System. In addition, WRB incorporated ideas from the former Working Group International Reference Base for Soil Classification that existed from 1982 to 1994.
Matrine regulates Th1/Th2 inflammatory responses by inhibiting the Hsp90/NF‐κB signaling axis to alleviate atopic dermatitis
Authors: Huang Pan , Hu Fan , Yang Zhi‐Bo , Pan Yi , Zhou Rong , Yan Yi‐Ning , Wang Hai‐Zhen , Wang Chang
Published: February 2023

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory skin disease. Matrine is the main component of the traditional Chinese medicine Sophora flavescens, and it poses good therapeutic effects on inflammatory diseases. This study aimed to explore the pharmacological effects of matrine on AD and its underlying mechanism. An AD mouse model and inflamed human epidermal keratinocyte cells (HaCaT) cells were established. Histopathological aspects were examined using hematoxylin and eosin staining, toluidine blue staining, and immunohistochemistry. The mRNA and protein expressions were assessed using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot, respectively. The secretions of cytokines and chemokines were examined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Flow cytometry was carried out to analyze the proportions of T‐helper (Th) 1 and Th2 cells. Herein, our results displayed that matrine diminished AD symptoms and decreased heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) expression. Matrine decreased the Th2 cytokine levels in the ear tissues and serum, and it also significantly repressed inflammatory cytokines (thymus activation regulated chemokine and interleukin‐6) secretions by repressing the Hsp90/NF‐κB signaling axis in inflamed HaCaT cells. Furthermore, matrine inhibited Th2 differentiation of CD4+ T cells when co‐cultured with inflamed HaCaT cells. Matrine can regulate the Th1/Th2 inflammatory response by inhibiting the Hsp90/NF‐κB signaling axis to alleviate AD. Therefore, it may be a candidate for AD treatment.
Cochlear Implantation for Unilateral and Asymmetric Hearing Loss: Long‐Term Subjective Benefit
Authors: Thompson Nicholas J. , Lopez Erin M. , Dillon Margaret T. , Rooth Meredith A. , Richter Margaret E. , Pillsbury Harold C. , Brown Kevin D.
Published: February 2023

Objectives

Assess the long‐term patterns of perceived tinnitus severity and subjective benefit for adult cochlear implant (CI) users with asymmetric or unilateral hearing loss (AHL or UHL).

Methods

Forty adults underwent cochlear implantation as part of a prospective clinical trial assessing the outcomes of CI use in cases of AHL (n = 20) and UHL (n = 20). Subjective measures included the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI), the Speech, Spatial, & Qualities of Hearing Scale (SSQ), and the Abbreviated Profile of Hearing Aid Benefit (APHAB). Responses were obtained preoperatively and at routine intervals out to 5 years post‐activation.

Results

For subjective benefit, participants with AHL and UHL reported a significant improvement as compared to preoperative abilities, which was maintained with long‐term CI use. For perceived tinnitus severity, participants with AHL and UHL reported a significant reduction with CI use as compared to preoperative perceptions. The perceived tinnitus severity significantly differed for the AHL and UHL cohorts over time. This pattern of results is likely influenced by the worse perceived severity levels for the UHL cohort preoperatively and the fluctuating perceived severity levels for some participants in the AHL cohort post‐activation.

Conclusion

Adults with AHL and UHL report an early, significant reduction in perceived tinnitus severity and improvement in quality of life with CI use that is generally maintained with long‐term device use. Questionnaires such as the THI, SSQ, and APHAB may contribute to a more holistic assessment of the benefits of cochlear implantation in this population.

Level of Evidence

2 Laryngoscope, 133:2792–2797, 2023
Systemic bevacizumab for pediatric patients with aggressive recurrent respiratory papillomatosis: One single‐center experience of eight patients
Authors: Liu Zengjun , Xiao Yang , Xu Jing , Liu Mengyao , Han Mingyong , Hu Wenyu , Zhu Dongyuan
Published: February 2023

Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) is a human papilloma virus (HPV)‐driven benign neoplasm, affecting larynx, trachea, and even lung, leading to voice disorders, airway obstruction, and postobstructive pneumonia. Several case reports have documented the promising efficacy of intravenous bevacizumab in reducing the need for surgical intervention among RRP patients. Herein, we present our experience on systemic bevacizumab for pediatric patients with aggressive RRP.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed clinical, laboratory, radiological, and bronchoscopy findings of pediatric patients with aggressive RRP treated with systemic bevacizumab from July 26, 2021 to March 1, 2022.

Results

Eight consecutive patients were included. Median age at treatment initiation was 5.5 (range 2.5–8) years old. Twenty‐five percentage (2/8) of patients experienced tracheotomy. Pulmonary papilloma was present in 62.5% (5/8) patients. Patients received median 10 cycles of bevacizumab (range 5–12). Patients received initial dosing of 4–7.5 mg/kg every 2–10 weeks of bevacizumab and subsequently extended after achieving the maximum response. None of the patients required surgical intervention during a median 10 (range 8.2–15.4) months follow‐up after initiating bevacizumab treatment. Both patients with evaluable lung lesions showed objective response. Only Grade 1 abdominal pain and Grade 1 hyperuricemia were recorded.

Conclusion

Systemic bevacizumab seems to be a well‐tolerated and effective treatment option for pediatric patients with aggressive RRP.
Potential drivers and consequences of regional phosphate depletion in the western subtropical North Pacific
Authors: Yuan Zhongwei , Browning Thomas J. , Zhang Ruifeng , Wang Chengwang , Du Chuanjun , Wang Yanmin , Chen Ying , Liu Zhiyu , Liu Xin , Shi Dalin , Dai Minhan
Published: February 2023

In regions of the nitrogen limited low latitude ocean, phosphate can also be depleted to levels initiating stress responses in marine microbes. Here, we associate a broad region of phosphate depletion in the subtropical North Pacific with different levels of phosphorus stress. Nutrient and aerosol addition experiments demonstrated primary nitrogen limitation of the bulk phytoplankton community, with supply of aerosols relieving this limitation. At northern sites with depleted phosphate, alkaline phosphatase activities were enhanced, indicating elevated phosphorus stress. Analysis of satellite‐ and model‐derived aerosol loading showed that aerosol deposition was elevated in these regions. Surface rate measurements suggested that the regional enhancement in phosphate depletion was predominantly driven by elevated nitrogen fixation, likely stimulated by the coincident supply of aerosol iron. Such observations are important for predicting future biogeochemical responses in the subtropical North Pacific to changing aerosol supply.
Generation of High‐Peak‐Power Femtosecond Pulses in Mamyshev Oscillators: Recent Advances and Future Challenges
Authors: Li Ying‐Ying , Gao Bo , Ma Chun‐Yang , Wu Ge , Huo Jia‐Yu , Han Ying , Wageh S. , Al‐Hartomy Omar A. , Al‐Sehemi Abdullah G. , Liu Lie , Zhang Han
Published: February 2023

Mamyshev oscillators (MOs) have attracted significant attention given their potential in yielding ultrafast lasers with high peak power. Based on step‐like saturable absorbers and self‐similar evolution in the gain fiber, MO technology features an advanced system capable of generating ultrastable femtosecond pulses with ultrahigh peak power. In this review, the principle of MO is presented in terms of their transmission function and tolerance to nonlinear phase shift and recent progress is reported in the advanced output performance of MO, manifested through high peak power, few‐cycles, high repetition rate, and supercontinuum generation. MO with various operation wavelengths (1, 1.5, and 2 μm) are examined, and MO starting methods are fully discussed, followed by a detailed account of diverse potential applications in areas such as biomedical imaging and material processing. Based on current progress, the prospective challenges and future directions of MO are highlighted and discussed.
Designing All‐Photonic Molecular Analogs for Electrical Components: A Reprogrammable Luminescent Filter Based on Ln3+ Ions
Authors: Hernández‐Rodríguez Miguel A. , Zanella Sofia , Fu Lianshe , Neto Albano N. Carneiro , Carlos Luís D. , Brites Carlos D. S.
Published: February 2023

The increasing demand for computing power and downscaling is reaching the limits of the current lithographic methods, further precluding the shrinkage of the silicon chips using state‐of‐the‐art top‐down approaches. Moreover, the current chip shortage exposes the excessive world dependence on silicon, stressing the need for silicon‐free computing technologies, preferably operating at the molecular level. Here, a Eu3+/Tb3+ co‐doped organic‐inorganic di‐ureasil hybrid is used to demonstrate an illustrative example of an all‐photonic device based on the emission temporal dynamics of the Eu3+ and Tb3+ ions. An all‐photonic approach for temperature‐reprogrammable change from a low‐pass filter to a high‐pass filter is reported, showing a firm step toward the design and development of molecular analogs of conventional circuit electrical passive components.
Experimental Methods to Get Polydopamine Films: A Comparative Review on the Synthesis Methods, the Films’ Composition and Properties
Authors: Ball Vincent , Hirtzel Jordana , Leks Guillaume , Frisch Benoît , Talon Isabelle
Published: February 2023

In 2007, polydopamine (PDA) films were shown to be formed spontaneously on the surface of all known classes of materials by simply dipping those substrates in an aerated dopamine solution at pH = 8.5 in the presence of Tris(hydroxymethyl) amino methane buffer. This universal deposition method has raised a burst of interest in surface science, owing not only to the universality of this water based one pot deposition method but also to the ease of secondary modifications. Since then, PDA films and particles are shown to have applications in energy conversion, water remediation systems, and last but not least in bioscience. The deposition of PDA films from aerated dopamine solutions is however a slow and inefficient process at ambient temperature with most of the formed material being lost as a precipitate. This incited to explore the possibility to get PDA and related films based on other catecholamines, using other oxidants than dissolved oxygen and other deposition methods. Those alternatives to get PDA and related films are reviewed and compared in this paper. It will appear that many more investigations are required to get better insights in the relationships between the preparation method of PDA and the properties of the obtained coatings.
Solid‐State Crosslinkable, Shape‐Memory Polyesters Serving Tissue Engineering
Authors: Delaey Jasper , Parmentier Laurens , Pyl Lincy , Brancart Joost , Adriaensens Peter , Dobos Agnes , Dubruel Peter , Van Vlierberghe Sandra
Published: February 2023

Acrylate‐endcapped urethane‐based precursors constituting a poly(D,L‐lactide)/poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PDLLA/PCL) random copolymer backbone are synthesized with linear and star‐shaped architectures and various molar masses. It is shown that the glass transition and thus the actuation temperature could be tuned by varying the monomer content (0–8 wt%ε‐caprolactone,Tg,crosslinked= 10—42 °C) in the polymers. The resulting polymers are analyzed for their physico‐chemical properties and viscoelastic behavior (G′max= 9.6–750 kPa). The obtained polymers are subsequently crosslinked and their shape‐memory properties are found to be excellent (Rr= 88–100%,Rf= 78–99.5%). Moreover, their potential toward processing via various additive manufacturing techniques (digital light processing, two‐photon polymerization and direct powder extrusion) is evidenced with retention of their shape‐memory effect. Additionally, all polymers are found to be biocompatible in direct contact in vitro cell assays using primary human foreskin fibroblasts (HFFs) through MTS assay (up to ≈100% metabolic activity relative to TCP) and live/dead staining (>70% viability).
Synthesis of High Molecular Weight Polymers by Organocatalyzed Living Radical Polymerization and Self‐Assembly Behavior
Authors: Hu Keling , Liu Shun , Zhao Zhuo , Zhang Yongjun
Published: February 2023

A mild organocatalyzed living radical polymerization method is studied for high molecular weight polymers (HMWPs), yielding low‐dispersity linear and star polymers (Đ = Mw/Mn = 1.03–1.28) up to Mn = 3.9 × 105 and monomer conversion = 80%, where Mn and Mw are the number‐ and weight‐average molecular weights, respectively. Even at high degrees of polymerization (DPs > 2000), this technique still features excellent control over molecular weights and Đ values, indicating the living character. The macroinitiators prepared at DP = 2000 are subsequently used for block polymerizations at high DPs (>2000) with functional methacrylates, yielding linear A‐B diblock, linear B‐A‐B triblock, and 3‐arm star A‐B diblock copolymers, suggesting the excellent block efficiency of macroinitiators synthesized at a high DP value (=2000). This mild organocatalyzed living radical polymerization technique can enhance the livingness of propagation radicals and kinetic chain length at high monomer conversions for monomers with moderate propagation rate coefficients (kps), reduce the persistent radical effect as much as possible, and hence enable HMWPs without the presence of metal catalyst, exogenous initiator, or harsh equipment. The obtained amphiphilic block copolymers present unique microphase separation behavior, and hold great potential in advanced materials applications, for example, thermosensitive nanocarriers.
Renal‐hepatic‐pancreatic dysplasia type 2: Perinatal lethal condition or a multisystemic disorder with variable expressivity
Authors: Gunther Kathryn , Imseis Essam M. , Samuel Joyce P. , Hillman Elizabeth A. , Ojala Tiina H. , Jahnukainen Timo , Hillman Paul R.
Published: February 2023

Background

Renal‐hepatic‐pancreatic dysplasia type 2 (RHPD2) is a rare condition that has been described in the literature disproportionately in perinatal losses. The main features of liver and kidney involvement are well described, with cardiac malformations and cardiomyopathy adding additional variation to the phenotype. Many patients reported are within larger cohorts of congenital anomalies of kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT) or liver failure, and with minimal phenotypic and clinical course data.

Methods

An independent series of phenotypes and prognosis was aggregated from the literature. In this literature review, we describe an additional patient with RHPD2, provide a clinical update on the oldest known living patient, and report the cumulative phenotypes from the existing published patients.

Results

With now examining the 17 known patients in the literature, 13 died within the perinatal period‐pregnancy to one year of life. Of the four cases living past the first year of life, one case died at 5 years secondary to renal failure, the other at 30 months secondary to liver and kidney failure. Two are currently alive and well at one year and 13 years. Two cases have had transplantation with one resulting in long‐term survival.

Conclusions

These patients serve to expand the existing phenotype of RHPD2 as a perinatal lethal condition into a pediatric disorder with variable expressivity. Additionally, we introduce the consideration of transplantation and outcomes within this cohort and future patients.
Partial tibial nerve transfer for iatrogenic peroneal nerve palsy after endovenous laser ablation for varicose veins of the lower extremity: A case report
Authors: Uemura Takuya , Miyashima Yusuke , Konishi Sadahiko , Takamatsu Kiyohito , Nakamura Hiroaki
Published: February 2023

Postprocedural peroneal nerve palsy after endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) for varicose veins is rare and is associated with poor functional recovery. There have been no reports using tibial nerve transfer for iatrogenic peroneal nerve palsy after EVLA. Herein, we present a case with peroneal nerve injury after EVLA, which was successfully treated by partial tibial nerve transfer for the first time. A 75‐year‐old female presented with a right foot drop immediately after EVLA of the lesser saphenous vein. The ankle and toe dorsiflexion had a muscle grade of M0 on the British Medical Research Council muscle scale, without voluntary motor unit action potentials (MUAP) in the tibialis anterior (TA) muscle on the needle electromyography. Three months after the injury, surgical nerve exploration revealed a damaged common peroneal nerve with discoloration and scarring at the fibular head. Intraoperative deep peroneal nerve stimulation confirmed the absence of compound muscle action potentials in the TA. The best functioning motor fascicles of the tibial nerve were transferred to the deep peroneal main trunk involving motor branches of the TA, extensor digitorum longus, and extensor hallucis longus (EHL) through the interosseous membrane. The postoperative course was uneventful, with no complications. After 3 months of surgery, nascent MUAP appeared in the TA. After 24 months, the patient regained the TA and EHL muscle function and ambulation without an ankle‐foot orthosis and tibial nerve deficits. Thus, our procedure may serve as an alternative to nerve grafting, tendon transfer, and orthoses for better management of the major neural complications associated with EVLA.
Hypofractionation and SABR: 25 years of evolution in medical physics and a glimpse of the future
Authors: Rong Yi , Ding Xuanfeng , Daly Megan E.
Published: February 2023

As we were invited to write an article for celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Medical Physics journal, on something historically significant, commemorative, and exciting happening in the past decades, the first idea came to our mind is the fascinating radiotherapy paradigm shift from conventional fractionation to hypofractionation and stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR). It is historically and clinically significant since as we all know this RT treatment revolution not only reduces treatment duration for patients, but also improves tumor control and cancer treatment outcomes. It is also commemorative and exciting for us medical physicists since the technology development in medical physics has been the main driver for the success of this treatment regimen which requires high precision and accuracy throughout the entire treatment planning and delivery. This article provides an overview of the technological development and clinical trials evolvement in the past 25 years for hypofractionation and SABR, with an outlook to the future improvement.
Leadership styles and transformational leadership skills among nurse leaders in Qatar, a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Al‐Thawabiya Amer , Singh Kalpana , Al‐Lenjawi Badriya Abdulla , Alomari Albara
Published: February 2023

Aim

There is a continuing need to implement strategies that create opportunities to develop leadership in Qatar, and to build institutions that can produce effective health managers and leaders. The scarcity of information and studies relating to leadership in this major healthcare corporation must be addressed. This article aims to explore nursing leadership styles and transformational leadership skills among nursing leaders, in Qatar. The study was conducted from October 2020 to January 2021.

Design

A cross‐sectional Study.

Methods

A validated survey was administered to explore the prevalence of leadership styles and transformational leadership skills. Subsequent statistical data analysis achieved the research objectives. The Multi‐Factor Leadership Questionnaire (Western Journal of Nursing Research, 1996) was used as an online de‐identified validated questionnaire.

Results

Eighty‐nine nurses completed the survey. The nurse leaders in this study exhibited leadership traits or qualities that confirm transformational leadership. Some nurse leaders also exhibited transactional and autocratic leadership styles. Directors of nursing exhibit higher levels of transformational leadership style than head nurses, while the latter is more likely to manifest an autocratic leadership style. This study indicates that a development roadmap is needed to transform more nursing leaders into transformational leaders, particularly head nurses, and to universally improve transformational leadership skills among all nursing staff members.
Convergence analysis of single rate and multirate fixed stress split iterative coupling schemes in heterogeneous poroelastic media
Authors: Almani Tameem , Kumar Kundan , Wheeler Mary F.
Published: February 2023

Recently, the accurate modeling of flow‐structure interactions has gained more attention and importance for both petroleum and environmental engineering applications. Of particular interest is the coupling between subsurface flow and reservoir geomechanics. Different single rate and multirate iterative and explicit coupling schemes have been proposed and analyzed in the past. In addition, Banach fixed point contraction results were obtained for iterative coupling schemes, and conditionally stable results were obtained for explicit coupling schemes. In this work, we will consider the mathematical analysis of the single rate and multirate fixed stress split iterative coupling schemes for spatially heterogeneous poroelastic media. We will re‐establish the contractivity for both schemes in the localized case, and we will show that heterogeneities come at the expense of imposing more restricted conditions on the number of fine flow time steps that can be taken within one coarse mechanics time step in the multirate case. Our mathematical analysis is supplemented by numerical simulations validating our derived upper bounds. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first rigorous mathematical analysis of the multirate fixed‐stress split iterative coupling scheme in heterogeneous poroelastic media.
Bird bone artifact from the Late Eneolithic/Early Bronze Age site of Zók (Hungary)
Authors: Vitezović Selena , Bulatović Jelena , Mitrović Jovan D.
Published: February 2023

Bird bones were rarely used for production of artifacts, due to various reasons—they were much smaller and thinner than bones of mammals usually selected for tool production; they also have specific shapes and fine structure, inadequate for the majority of common artifact types. They were occasionally used for some specific objects, such as flutes, pipes, needle cases, and amulets. When it comes to the Eneolithic and Early Bronze Age periods in south‐eastern Europe, bird bone artifacts are rare; only few have been discovered thus far. In this paper, we will present one additional finding of a bird bone artifact, from the site of Zók–Gradina, situated in present‐day Hungary. Excavations carried out in 1920 by the National Museum in Belgrade revealed a multi‐period site, with major parts of the stratigraphic sequence belonging to the Late Eneolithic/Early Bronze Age Vučedol culture (2900–2500/2400 BC). Vučedol layers yielded relatively large quantities of worked bone, including one artifact produced from a bird bone, that will be presented here. The object in question was produced from the right radius of a Cygnus sp.; it is in the shape of an elongated tube; carefully cut at both ends. The function of this item is uncertain—it may have served as some sound‐producing instrument (flute), or it was some sort of a handle or needle case. It is interesting to note that bird representations, in particular, ornithomorphic vessels, are among the specific traits of the Vučedol culture; therefore, the choice of a bird bone for the production of this artifact may have had a certain symbolic significance as well.
Designing databases and using generalized estimating equations for entheseal datasets: An example from the Tiwanaku culture (AD 500–1100)
Authors: Becker Sara K. , Stull Kyra E. , Chu Elaine
Published: February 2023

Studying entheseal changes (EC) in human skeletal remains involves questions surrounding how researchers should collect, process, and evaluate these data as there are no set standards. Osteoarcheological research should also be able to answer population‐level queries using entheses, such as if group A was moving their body in different ways from group B? Or are there age‐related tasks or gendered labors? However, not all entheseal data can be easily evaluated in this fashion. If researchers select one area of the body, they may not be able to discuss population‐level differences. In addition, if data are evaluated by each muscle attachment area throughout a body, the results can be overwhelming. Further, grouping EC may produce problems with statistical assumptions of independence. To address these design and scalar issues, we discuss proper database construction, including the importance for consistent data collection strategies and in anchoring individuals under a specimen number. We also show how generalized estimating equations (GEE) can address how individual‐level scores can be collected and population‐level research questions can be answered with entheseal marker data processed in SAS 9.4 or the free alternative, R. We utilize a sample of over 1200 adults from the Tiwanaku culture (AD 500–1100) of Bolivia and Peru. We demonstrate evaluating significant overall differences while also pinpointing specific EC by sex or by age at death to discuss various ways in which bodies moved in the past.
A prolonged fast improves overnight substrate oxidation without modulating hepatic glycogen in adults with and without nonalcoholic fatty liver: A randomized crossover trial
Authors: Roumans Kay H. M. , Veelen Anna , Andriessen Charlotte , Mevenkamp Julian , Kornips Esther , Veeraiah Pandichelvam , Havekes Bas , Peters Harry P. F. , Lindeboom Lucas , Schrauwen Patrick , Schrauwen‐Hinderling Vera B.
Published: February 2023

Objective

Increasing overnight fasting time seems a promising strategy to improve metabolic health in individuals with nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFL). Mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of fasting may be related to larger fluctuations in hepatic glycogen and higher fat oxidation. This study investigated whether prolonging an overnight fast depletes hepatic glycogen stores and improves substrate metabolism in individuals with NAFL and healthy lean individuals.

Methods

Eleven individuals with NAFL and ten control individuals participated in this randomized crossover trial. After a 9.5‐hour or 16‐hour fast, hepatic glycogen was measured by using carbon‐13 magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and a meal test was performed. Nocturnal substrate oxidation was measured with indirect calorimetry.

Results

Extending fasting time led to lower nocturnal carbohydrate oxidation and higher fat oxidation in both groups (intervention × time, p < 0.005 for carbohydrate and fat oxidation). In both arms, the respiratory exchange ratio measured during the night remained higher in the group with NAFL compared with the control group (population p < 0.001). No changes were observed in hepatic glycogen depletion with a prolonged overnight fast in the group with NAFL or the control group.

Conclusions

These results suggest that acutely prolonging the overnight fast can improve overnight substrate oxidation and that these alterations are not mediated by changes in hepatic glycogen depletion.
Layperson Perception of Symptoms Caused by the Sinuses
Authors: Riley Charles A. , Soneru Christian P. , Navarro Alvaro , Trinh Lily , Abuzeid Waleed M. , Humphreys Ian M. , Akbar Nadeem A. , Shah Sharan , Lee Jivianne T. , Wu Tara J. , Schneider John S. , McCoul Edward D.
Published: February 2023

Objective

To assess the perceived symptoms caused by the sinuses as defined by otolaryngology patients and clinicians.

Study Design

Multi‐institutional cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Six academic outpatient otolaryngology practices.

Methods

We performed a multi‐institutional, cross‐sectional study using a semantics‐based questionnaire. Consecutive patients were enrolled at 6 academic otolaryngology centers from June 2020 to May 2021. The primary outcome examined patient and provider definitions for the symptoms caused by the sinuses from a list of 28 proposed terms covering 6 general categories. These data were also collected from otolaryngology faculty at the same institutions.

Results

Responses were obtained from 451 patients (54% female, mean age 48.3 years) and 29 otolaryngologists (38% female, mean age 37.4 years). Patients selected a median of 12 terms, compared to 8.5 for otolaryngologists. Among patients, the most frequently selected symptom domains were mucus (419, 92.9%), airflow (412, 91.4%), and pain (389, 86.3%). Compared to clinicians, patients more frequently selected symptoms related to the ear (difference, 48.3%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 34.8%‐59.3%), throat (difference, 35.7%, 95% CI, 22.0%‐47.5%), systemic (difference, 34.4%, 95% CI, 21.2%‐46.0%), mucus (difference, 20.5%, 95% CI, 10.2%‐30.6%), and airflow domains (difference, 19.0%, 95% CI, 8.4%‐29.3%). Multiple domains were selected by 98% of patients and 79% of providers.

Conclusion

Semantic differences exist between patients and clinicians regarding the symptoms caused by the sinus with patients having a broader range of perceived symptoms. These differences may provide clues to improve communication between otolaryngologists and their patients.
The Impact of Reverse Transfer Associate Degrees on Education and Labor Market Outcomes
Authors: Odle Taylor K. , Russell Lauren C.
Published: February 2023

Reverse transfer associate degrees are credentials retroactively awarded to current bachelor's degree seekers, combining four‐year credits with credits previously earned at a community college. Using administrative data from Tennessee, we use a difference‐in‐difference design to compare students before and after receipt of a reverse transfer degree to similar students over time. We find reverse transfer degrees have little impact on students’ academic outcomes (GPA, credits, and bachelor's degree attainment) and labor market outcomes (employment and earnings). Our findings contrast with existing descriptive work reporting large benefits of such degrees, due to our methodological improvements and more robust data. The null effect on earnings suggests that returns to an associate degree are driven by human capital gains rather than signaling in the reverse transfer student population.
The benefits of citizen science and nature‐noticing activities for well‐being, nature connectedness and pro‐nature conservation behaviours
Authors: Pocock Michael J. O. , Hamlin Iain , Christelow Jennifer , Passmore Holli‐Anne , Richardson Miles
Published: February 2023

The current biodiversity crisis, extinction of experience of nature and rising concern about people's well‐being and mental health require us to understand the benefits of activities supporting people's engagement with nature.

We ran a 1‐week randomised controlled experiment to test the impact of nature‐focussed activities on people's connectedness to nature and well‐being. This project, called ‘Nature Up Close and Personal: A Wellbeing Experiment’ recruited 500 people who completed the pre‐ and post‐participation surveys which included seven psychometric outcome measures.

People were randomly assigned to one of six groups. Those in non‐control groups were asked to take part in one 10‐min activity five times over 8 days; this could be done in any place with nature near to them. The activities were as follows: two different citizen science activities, a nature‐noticing activity (asking people to note three good things in nature: 3GTiN) or a combination of citizen science and 3GTiN.

Citizen science, 3GTiN and the combination of the two had significant positive effects on nature connectedness, happiness, sense of worthwhile life and satisfaction with life. 3GTiN (alone and in combination with citizen science) had significant positive effects on pro‐nature conservation behaviours.

All activities engaged the pathways to nature connectedness. Compared to 3GTiN, people doing citizen science scored lower at engaging with nature through their senses, and feeling calm or joyful, but higher for feeling that they made a difference. The combined activity engaged the pathways to nature connectedness at least as strongly as the highest scoring of citizen science or 3GTiN individually. This shows the potential to intentionally design citizen science to enhance the pathways to nature connectedness.

Nature‐based citizen science is more than just a way to gather environmental data: it benefits well‐being and nature connectedness of participants, and (when in combination with noticing nature activities) pro‐nature conservation behaviours. It adds to the range of activities already proven to enhanced human–nature interactions and nature connectedness. Public policy needs to develop a ‘one health’ approach to people's engagement with nature, supporting communities to both notice and monitor everyday biodiversity, recognising that human and nature's well‐being is interdependent.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Effect of nanocrystalline cellulose on mechanical, thermal, and barrier properties of polylactic acid blown composite film
Authors: Yu Jie , Zhang Feifei , Mu Guangqing , Xu Yunpeng , Qu Junming , Zhang Guixia , Lv Yanna , Jiang Shujuan , Qian Fang , Xia Ying
Published: February 2023

This study utilized polyethylene glycol (PEG) as a compatibilizer, and prepared nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC) reinforced polylactic acid (PLA) nanocomposite films by blown film extrusion. The physical properties, including the mechanical performance, barrier characteristics, processing flow properties, and thermal properties, were evaluated, and the microstructure was estimated. The consequences showed that the NCC could significantly enhance the physical properties of the PLA nanocomposite film. When the NCC concentration was 3%, the tensile strength of the composite film was 45.02 MPa, and the melting index was 1.03 g/min, which were 17.85% and 6.40% greater than those of the PLA/PEG composite film, respectively. The oxygen transmission rate (OTR) of the composite film with NCC was 5.438 × 10−4 cm3/(m2·d·Pa), which was 96.70% lower compared to the composite film without NCC. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis showed that adding NCC and PEG could increase the stability of the PLA/PEG/NCC composite film, but NCC had little impact on the thermal properties of the PLA/PEG/NCC composite film. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis showed that the PLA, PEG and NCC had better compatibility and dispersion.
Biodegradable radiative cooling membrane based on electrospun silk fibroin fiber
Authors: Xiang Bo , Xu Peng , Chang Yongsheng , Zhang Yifan , Wu Yali , Zhong Wenhuan , Lei Wen , Zhang Rong
Published: February 2023

Biodegradable radiative cooling materials can achieve both zero‐energy cooling and environmental friendliness. Natural silk cocoon exhibits both high solar reflectivity and mid‐infrared emissivity owing to its unique structure and composition, while it possesses excellent biodegradability. Herein, we restructure the natural silk by electrospinning to obtain scalable and biodegradable silk fibroin (SF) fiber membranes with enhanced optical properties. Specially, nano‐sized fibers exhibit better optical properties than micrometer‐sized ones. The fabricated SF nanofiber membrane can achieve ultra‐high average solar reflectance and infrared emittance of 96% and ~97%, respectively. Such outstanding optical properties enables the fiber membrane to yield an average sub‐ambient cooling temperature of ~6°C in the outdoor environment even under a peak solar intensity of ~800 W m−2. Overall, the resulted SF fiber membranes promise a wide range of applications such as building energy efficiency, cold‐chain transportation, in‐vehicle temperature control, outdoor precision instrument protection and outdoor personal thermal management.