bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A global climate model ensemble for downscaled monthly climate normals over North America
Authors: Mahony Colin R. , Wang Tongli , Hamann Andreas , Cannon Alex J.
Published: February 2022

Use of downscaled global climate model projections is expanding rapidly as climate change vulnerability assessments and adaptation planning become mainstream in many sectors. Many climate change impact analyses use climate model projections downscaled at very high spatial resolution (~1 km) but very low temporal resolution (20‐ to 30‐year normals). These applications have model selection priorities that are distinct from analyses at high temporal resolution. Here, we select a 13‐model ensemble and an 8‐model subset designed for robust change‐factor downscaling of monthly climate normals, and describe their attributes in North America. All models are selected from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6) archives. The 13‐model ensemble is representative of the distribution of equilibrium climate sensitivity, grid resolution, and transient regional climate changes in the CMIP6 generation. The 8‐model subset is consistent with the IPCC's recent assessment of the very likely range of Earth's equilibrium climate sensitivity. Our results emphasize several principles for selection and use of downscaled climate ensembles: (a) the ensemble must be observationally constrained to be meaningful; (b) analysis of multiple models is essential as the ensemble mean alone can be misleading; (c) small (<8‐member) ensembles should be region‐specific and used with caution; (d) higher grid resolution is not necessarily better; and (e) multiple simulations of each model/scenario combination are necessary to represent precipitation uncertainty. Although we have focused our documentation on North America, our model selection uses primarily global criteria and is applicable to downscaling climate normals in other continents. Downscaled projections for the selected models are available in ClimateNA (http://climatena.ca/). An accompanying web application (https://bcgov-env.shinyapps.io/cmip6-NA/) provides tools for further model selection and visualization of the ensemble.
Spatiotemporal climate variability in the Andes of northern Peru: Evaluation of gridded datasets to describe cloud forest microclimate and local rainfall
Authors: Newell Felicity L. , Ausprey Ian J. , Robinson Scott K.
Published: February 2022

Tropical montane cloud forest may be especially sensitive to climate change. However, our ability to understand effects of climate on montane biodiversity remains limited by the resolution of climate data. We compared 5 years of in situ weather data from cloud forests in northern Peru, regional weather stations, and gridded datasets to examine how climatologies reflect (a) forest microclimate buffering and (b) local rainfall in a sparse data region; we also examined spatiotemporal variability and regional trends. Across a 1,700–3,100 m gradient in which temperature did not covary with relative humidity (RH), in situ data showed interactions between climate and land‐use. Forest humidity buffered warming‐induced evaporative drying across elevations, and inside forest maximum vapour pressure deficit (VPDmax) did not change with elevation, whereas with a 22% reduction in RHmin at stations, VPDmax increased >10‐fold from high to low elevations. Cloud forest dried out on sunny days after 3 days without rain, especially during ENSO‐related drought concurrent with peak solar insolation. Climatologies were twice as precise for temperature as rainfall. Chelsa captured a 3.9°C reduction in maximum temperatures inside forest (MAE 1.6°C, R2 = 0.95) whereas WorldClim reflected drier lapse rates and higher Tmax outside forest. CHIRPS provided the best fit for monthly rainfall (MAE 23 mm, R2 = 48), capturing regional drought but underestimating rainfall >150 mm·month−1. Consistent with stations, CHIRPS showed strong support for regional increases in wet‐season rainfall. Reduced variability and more regular dry seasons were only detected by montane stations, especially south of 6°S, where rainfall seasonality shifted to earlier wet‐season peaks and reduced dry‐season rainfall as part of a transition from the Northern to Central Andes. Our results show that cloud forests may be partly buffered from warming but are likely to become extremely vulnerable under reduced humidity either through forest loss or drought.
Optimization of the brewing parameters on coffee extraction using a central composite rotatable design
Authors: Barroso Lívia Alves , Macedo Ana S. , Lemos Iara Lopes , de Andrade Neves Nathália , Schmiele Marcio , da Silveira João Vinícios Wirbitzki , Amaral Tatiana Nunes , Fonte Pedro
Published: February 2022

Background

The consumption of cold brew is relatively new, and guidelines with conditions and parameters to produce cold brew are still lacking. In this study, the parameters to obtain cold brew coffee from Coffea arabica were optimized to obtain a coffee extract rich in caffeine and soluble solids. The effects of extraction time, particle size of ground coffee, extraction temperature, coffee‐to‐water ratio, stirring on caffeine yield, and soluble solids on caffeine concentrations were studied.

Results

Optimized parameters showed 45 min sufficed to perform a cold extraction at 4°C and 24°C. The parameters selected for validation were 24°C, 30% coffee‐to‐water ratio, a stirring of 400 rpm resulting in 3.98 mg/ml of extracted caffeine, 11.20 °Brix, and 93.9% of caffeine yield. The smaller particle size (595 μm) displayed the higher caffeine extraction of about 4 mg/ml.

Conclusion

This study reveals the high efficiency of cold brew extraction and its potential at the industrial scale, decreasing costs with energy and extraction time, and producing a coffee rich in caffeine and soluble solids.
Chemical and enzymatic deinking efficiency of agricultural and industrial waste fiber‐based paper packaging
Authors: Sežun Mija , Karlovits Igor , Kavčič Urška
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

Deinking is an important part of paper recycling that involves the removal of ink particles from the paper fibres. This industrial process is important so that the fibres can be recirculated back into paper production, which enables better sustainability as fewer fresh fibres are needed. In this study, we examined five different alternative fibre materials from different agricultural residues and industrial processes for the pilot production of papers. Papers containing fibres from invasive plants (Japanese knotweed), dedicated crops (miscanthus, acacia), agricultural residues (tomato stems), and industrial waste (jute – fibres from coffee bags) were printed with water‐based flexo inks and deinked with two separate processes (chemical and enzymes). Mechanical (break and tensile index, breaking length) and optical properties (ISO whiteness, brightness and CIEL*a*b* values) were measured and ink elimination IR700 and deinking efficiency was calculated for the two deinking processes.

RESULTS

Enzymatic treatment improved the mechanical properties of deinked pulp in comparison with the classic chemical treatment. Mechanical strength for almost all papers increased slightly (breaking length up to 20% in tomato and jute), and the optical result (brightness) increased similarly for both processes due to the bleaching action of the colour‐shaded samples, whereas the deinking efficiency showed mixed results between chemical‑ and enzyme‐type deinking (with chemical achieving better elimination measured at 700 nm) in the typical range of ink elimination values (15–35%) for flexographic inks. This indicates further optimization of the deinking with enzymes is needed due to different alternative fibre compositions and variations of residues in the delignification processes.

CONCLUSION

Using a combination of adjusted enzymatic treatment as a precursor for deinking of paper‐based packaging materials sourced from alternative fibres showed promising results regarding mechanical properties, whereas the optical properties need to be improved with cellulase optimization or by using mixes of different enzymes. These kinds of paper materials printed with flexo inks were found to be successfully deinkable with the chemical ISO‐based deinking protocol. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Icaritin‐elevated circ_0000190 suppresses the malignant progression of multiple myeloma by targeting miR‐301a
Authors: Zhu Yu‐Hui , Zhang Xin‐Ru , Zhang Qi , Chai Jin
Published: February 2022

Icaritin has potential anticancer effects on various cancers, including multiple myeloma (MM). Recent studies claim that Icaritin can regulate the expression of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) in cancer development. This study aimed to investigate the role of circular RNA_0000190 (circ_0000190) and functional mechanism in Icaritin‐treated MM. The expression of circ_0000190 and miR‐301a was detected by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Cell cycle, apoptosis, migration, and invasion were investigated using flow cytometry assay, and transwell assay, respectively. The expression of BAX, BCL2, MMP2, and CCND1 was detected by western blot. The predicted target relationship between circ_0000190 and miR‐301a was validated by dual‐luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation assay. The activation of JAK1/STAT3 pathway was examined using western blot. Circ_0000190 was strikingly downregulated in MM specimens and cell lines, and Icaritin promoted the expression of circ_0000190. In function, circ_0000190 overexpression promoted MM cell cycle arrest and apoptosis but restrained the ability of migration and invasion. Icaritin blocked the development of MM by increasing circ_0000190 expression. MiR‐301a was identified as a target of circ_0000190, and miR‐301a reintroduction largely abolished the effects of circ_0000190 overexpression. The activation of JAK1/STAT3 pathway was promoted by miR‐301a restoration. Icaritin played anticancer effects in MM partly by enhancing the expression of circ_0000190 and regulating the circ_0000190/miR‐301a pathway. This study enhanced the understanding of the mechanism of Icaritin associated with circRNAs in MM.
Long‐Term Improvement in Localization for Cochlear Implant Users with Single‐Sided Deafness
Authors: Thompson Nicholas J. , Dillon Margaret T. , Buss Emily , Rooth Meredith A. , Richter Margaret E. , Pillsbury Harold C. , Brown Kevin D.
Published: February 2022

Objectives/Hypothesis

To assess whether early, significant improvements in sound source localization observed in cochlear implant (CI) recipients with normal hearing (NH) in the contralateral ear are maintained after 5 years of CI use.

Study Design

Prospective, repeated measures study.

Methods

Participants were recruited from a sample of CI + NH listeners (n = 20) who received their device as part of a prospective clinical trial investigating outcomes of CI use for adult cases of single‐sided deafness. Sound source localization was assessed annually after the clinical trial endpoint (1‐year post‐activation). Listeners were asked to indicate the perceived sound source for a broadband noise burst presented randomly at varied intensity levels from one of 11 speakers along a 180° arc. Performance was quantified as root‐mean‐squared (RMS) error.

Results

Linear mixed models showed superior post‐activation performance was maintained with long‐term CI use as compared to preoperative abilities (P < .001). Unexpectedly, a significant improvement (P = .009) in sound source localization was observed over the long‐term post‐activation period (1–5 years). To better understand these long‐term findings, the response patterns for the 11 participants who were evaluated at the 1‐ and 5‐year visits were reviewed. This subgroup demonstrated a significant improvement in RMS error (P = .020) and variable error (P = .031), indicating more consistent responses at the 5‐year visit.

Conclusion

Adult CI + NH listeners experience significant improvements in sound source localization within the initial weeks of listening experience, with additional improvements observed after long‐term device use. The present sample demonstrated significant improvements between the 1‐year and 5‐year visits, with greater accuracy and consistency noted in their response patterns.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 132:2453–2458, 2022
Assessment of human leukocyte antigen matching algorithm PIRCHE‐II on liver transplantation outcomes
Authors: Kok Gautam , Verstegen Monique M. A. , Houwen Roderick H. J. , Nieuwenhuis Edward E. S. , Metselaar Herold J. , Polak Wojciech G. , van der Laan Luc J. W. , Spierings Eric , den Hoed Caroline M. , Fuchs Sabine A.
Published: February 2022

For liver transplantations, human leukocyte antigen (HLA) matching is not routinely performed because observed effects have been inconsistent. Nevertheless, long‐term liver transplantation outcomes remain suboptimal. The availability of a more precise HLA‐matching algorithm, Predicted Indirectly Recognizable HLA Epitopes II (PIRCHE‐II), now enables robust assessment of the association between HLA matching and liver transplantation outcomes. We performed a single‐center retrospective cohort study of 736 liver transplantation patients. Associations between PIRCHE‐II and HLAMatchmaker scores and mortality, graft loss, acute and chronic rejection, ischemic cholangiopathy, and disease recurrence were evaluated with Cox proportional hazards models. Associations between PIRCHE‐II with 1‐year, 2‐year, and 5‐year outcomes and severity of acute rejection were assessed with logistic and linear regression analyses, respectively. Subgroup analyses were performed for autoimmune and nonautoimmune indications, and patients aged 30 years and younger, and older than 30 years. PIRCHE‐II and HLAMatchmaker scores were not associated with any of the outcomes. However, patients who received transplants for autoimmune disease showed more acute rejection and graft loss, and these risks negatively associated with age. Rhesus mismatch more than doubled the risk of disease recurrence. Moreover, PIRCHE‐II was inversely associated with graft loss in the subgroup of patients aged 30 years and younger with autoimmune indications. The absence of associations between PIRCHE‐II and HLAMatchmaker scores and the studied outcomes refutes the need for HLA matching for liver (stem cell) transplantations for nonautoimmune disease. For autoimmune disease, the activated immune system seems to increase risks of acute rejection and graft loss. Our results may suggest the benefits of transplantations with rhesus matched but PIRCHE‐II mismatched donor livers.
High Pesticide Exposure Events and Dream‐Enacting Behaviors Among US Farmers
Authors: Yuan Yaqun , Shrestha Srishti , Luo Zhehui , Li Chenxi , Plassman Brenda L. , Parks Christine G. , Hofmann Jonathan N. , Beane Freeman Laura E. , Sandler Dale P. , Chen Honglei
Published: February 2022

Background

Dream‐enacting behavior is a characteristic feature of rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder, the most specific prodromal marker of synucleinopathies. Pesticide exposure may be associated with dream‐enacting behaviors, but epidemiological evidence is limited.

Objectives

To examine high pesticide exposure events in relation to dream‐enacting behaviors among farmers in the Agricultural Health Study.

Methods

We conducted multivariable logistic regression analyses to examine high pesticide exposure events reported from 1993 to 1997 in relation to dream‐enacting behaviors assessed from 2013 to 2015 among 11,248 farmers (age 47 ± 11 years).

Results

A history of dream‐enacting behaviors was reported by 939 (8.3%) farmers. Compared with farmers who did not report any high pesticide exposure event, those who reported were more likely to endorse dream‐enacting behaviors 2 decades later (odds ratio = 1.75; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.49–2.05). The association appeared stronger when there was a long delay in washing with soap and water after the event (2.63 [95% CI, 1.62–4.27] for waiting >6 hours vs. 1.71 [95% CI, 1.36–2.15] for washing within 30 minutes) and when the exposure involved the respiratory or digestive tract (2.04 [95% CI, 1.62–2.57] vs. 1.58 [95% CI, 1.29–1.93] for dermal contact only). In the analyses of specific pesticides involved, we found positive associations with two organochlorine insecticides (dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane and lindane), four organophosphate insecticides (phorate, ethoprop, terbufos, and parathion), two herbicides (alachlor and paraquat), and fungicides as a group.

Conclusions

This study provides the first epidemiological evidence that high pesticide exposures may be associated with a higher risk of dream‐enacting behaviors. © 2022 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Association between psychotropic prescriptions and the total amount of psychotropics ingested during an intentional overdose: A single‐center retrospective study
Authors: Tanahashi Iori , Shiganami Takafumi , Iwayama Takayuki , Wake Taisei , Kobayashi Sayaka , Yoshimasu Haruo
Published: February 2022

Aim

To investigate the association between psychotropic prescriptions and the total amount of psychotropics ingested during a subsequent intentional overdose and to examine factors related to the number of psychotropic prescriptions.

Methods

The initial sample comprised 69 patients who were admitted to the emergency department of a general hospital in Japan following an intentional overdose via psychotropic medications. We performed retrospective hierarchical multiple regression analysis with the total amount of psychotropics ingested at the overdose as a dependent variable and factors related to deliberate self‐harm or overdose identified in previous studies as independent variables. We compared two models, one that did not (Step 1) and one that did (Step 2) include the number of different prescribed psychotropic medications as an independent variable in the analysis.

Results

Forty‐seven patients were eligible for the analysis. The number of different prescribed psychotropic medications was associated with the total amount of psychotropics ingested at the overdose in Step 2 (β = 0.40, P = .01). There was a trend toward an association between the past number of deliberate self‐harm events and the total amount of psychotropics ingested at the overdose in Step 1 (β = 0.30, P = .05), but this trend was weakened in Step 2 (β = 0.15, P = .33).

Conclusion

The number of different prescribed psychotropics appeared to influence the risk of subsequent intentional overdose through increasing the total amount of psychotropics ingested. Cumulative psychotropic prescriptions, particularly those delivered after deliberate self‐harm, might be indirectly related to this risk.
Influence of liquid polybutadiene on crosslinking network and mechanical properties of SSBR/BR
Authors: Liu Zi Yan , Han Liu , Wang Rui Jia , Feng Qiang , Liu Guang Yong , Yong Zhan Fu
Published: February 2022

The treated distillate aromatic extract (TDAE) is widely used in tread compounds. However, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) contained in TDAE is serious harm to the environment and human. In this paper, liquid polybutadiene (LPB) of different brands was used to replace TDAE to plasticize solution polymerized styrene‐butadiene rubber/cis‐1,4‐polybutadiene rubber (SSBR/BR). The effects of liquid polybutadiene instead of TDAE on crosslinking network and mechanical properties of matrix rubber were studied. LPB could participate in vulcanization reaction (different from TDAE). The results showed that LPB effectively reduced the critical strain amplitude of Payne effect (ameliorated filler dispersion) compared with TDAE plasticizing SSBR/BR. The degree of crosslinking decreased slightly, but there was no significant difference in rolling resistance and wet skid resistance at the same sulfur content. Changing the sulfur content, the wet skid resistance of tread and tensile strength of SSBR/BR vulcanizate plasticized by LPB were significantly improved, and the effect of LPB with high 1,2‐vinyl content was better. In a word, LPB as a new environmental protection plasticizer can be used to effectively replace the TDAE plasticizing SSBR/BR.
Systematic review of drug–drug interactions between rifamycins and anticoagulant and antiplatelet agents and considerations for management
Authors: MacDougall Conan , Canonica Theora , Keh Chris , P. Phan Binh An , Louie Janice
Published: February 2022

Rifamycins (rifampin, rifabutin, and rifapentine) play an essential role in the treatment of mycobacterial and some nonmycobacterial infections. They also induce the activity of various drug transporting and metabolizing enzymes, which can impact the concentrations and efficacy of substrates. Many anticoagulant and antiplatelet (AC/AP) agents are substrates of these enzymes and have narrow therapeutic indices, leading to risks of thrombosis or bleeding when coadministered with rifamycins. The objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the effects on AC/AP pharmacokinetics, laboratory markers, and clinical safety and efficacy of combined use with rifamycins. A systematic review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analyses guidance was performed. The PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases were queried for English‐language reports on combination use of rifamycins and AC/AP agents from database inception through August 2021. The 29 studies identified examined warfarin (n = 17), direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) (n = 8), and antiplatelet agents (n = 4) combined with rifampin (n = 28) or rifabutin (n = 1). Eleven studies were case reports or small case series; 14 reported on pharmacokinetic or laboratory markers in healthy volunteers. Rifampin‐warfarin combinations led to reductions in warfarin area under the curve (AUC) of 15%–74%, with variability by warfarin isomer and study. Warfarin dose increases of up to 3–5 times prerifampin doses were required to maintain coagulation parameters in the therapeutic range. DOAC AUCs were decreased by 20%–67%, with variability by individual agent and with rifampin versus rifabutin. The active metabolite of clopidogrel increased substantially with rifampin coadministration, whereas prasugrel was largely unaffected and ticagrelor saw decreases. Our review suggests most combinations of AC/AP agents and rifampin are problematic. Further studies are required to determine whether rifabutin or rifapentine could be safe alternatives for coadministration with AC/AP drugs.
Natural products in suppressing glioma progression: A focus on the role of microRNAs
Authors: Tabnak Peyman , Masrouri Soroush , Mafakheri Asrin
Published: February 2022

Glioma is one of the most common malignancies of the central nervous system. Due to inadequate response to the current treatments available, glioma has been at the center of recent cancer studies searching for novel treatment strategies. This has prompted an intensive search using linkage studies and preliminary evidence to gain efficient insight into the mechanisms involved in the alleviation of the pathogenesis of glioma mediated by miRNAs, a group of noncoding RNAs that affect gene expression posttranscriptionally. Dysregulated expression of miRNAs can exacerbate the malignant features of tumor cells in glioma and other cancers. Natural products can exert anticancer effects on glioma cells by stimulating the expression levels of tumor suppressor miRNAs and repressing the expression levels of oncogenic miRNAs. In this review, we aimed to collect and analyze the literature addressing the roles of natural products in the treatment of glioma, with an emphasis on their involvement in the regulation of miRNAs.
Development of the science teaching anxiety scale for preservice elementary teachers: A Rasch analysis
Authors: Novak Elena , Soyturk Ilker , Navy Shannon L.
Published: February 2022

Science teaching anxiety is negative emotion that inhibits a teacher's ability to start, proceed, or finish a science teaching task. Despite its detrimental effects on teachers' science teaching quality and practices, there is limited research on science teaching anxiety. To advance research in this area, there is a need for a psychometrically sound instrument assessing teachers' science teaching anxiety. This study presents the development and psychometric properties of the Science Teaching Anxiety Scale (STAS) in preservice elementary teachers (N = 191) using a Rasch analysis. In addition, it examines the relationships among science teaching anxiety, science interest, and science teaching efficacy (self‐efficacy and outcome expectancy). Results indicated that the STAS has promising validity and reliability for use in future research. Moreover, science teaching anxiety and science interest were significant predictors of teaching self‐efficacy in preservice elementary teachers. Implications for researchers, teacher educators, and individuals who work with new teachers are discussed.
The Multicomponent Synergistic Effect of Sandwich Structure Hierarchical Nanofibers for Enhanced Sodium Storage
Authors: Chen Junjie , Wang Ting , Zhang Fangrong , Tian Nan , Zhang Qiuyu , Zhang Baoliang
Published: February 2022

Constructing hierarchical micro/nanostructures as anodes for sodium ion batteries is an important approach for exploiting efficient energy storage devices. Herein, sandwich structure hierarchical nanofibers composed of hollow carbon fibers as the substrate, and MoS2 as the interlayer with Co and/or ZnS nanoparticles anchoring in carbon skeletons as the outer shell (carbon nanofiber/MoS2/Co‐ZnS⊂NC) are prepared via a multistep reaction strategy. Profiting from the unique hierarchical structure, abundant migration channels of Na+, and multicomponent synergistic effects, the rapid diffusion kinetics are ensured and the utilization of active materials is maximized. The coaxial structure can evenly disperse volumetric strain, making structural stability guaranteed. Hierarchical nanofibers deliver a high reversible capacity of 352.3 mAh g−1 at 5.0 A g−1 over 3000 cycles. A discharge capacity of 182.5 mAh g−1 is retained even after 10 000 cycles at 10.0 A g−1 as well as a high rate capacity of 202.0 mAh g−1 up to 30 A g−1. The optimal atomic ratio of Co element is further verified by the kinetic analysis. The full‐cells assembled with Na3V2(PO4)3 cathode provide a high capacity of 179.2 mAh g−1 at 1.0 A g−1 for 500 cycles. Combining in situ and ex situ characterizations and theoretical calculations, possible sodium storage mechanisms and the origin of superior electrochemical properties are revealed.
Controllable Synthesis of Web‐Footed PdCu Nanosheets and Their Electrocatalytic Applications
Authors: Zeng Tiantian , Meng Xiaomin , Huang Haowei , Zheng Linwei , Chen Haibo , Zhang Yun , Yuan Weiyong , Zhang Lian Ying
Published: February 2022

Morphological control of noble‐metal‐based nanocrystals has attracted enormous attention because their catalytic behaviors can be optimized well by adjusting the size and shape. Herein, the controllable synthesis of web‐footed PdCu nanosheets via a facile surfactant‐free method is reported. It is discovered that the Cu(II) precursor in this synthetic system displays a critical role in growing branches along the lateral of nanosheets. This work demonstrates a Pd‐based alloy nanoarchitecture for efficient and stable electrocatalysis of both ethanal and formic acid oxidation reactions.
Polyoxometalate Ionic Sponge Enabled Dendrite‑Free and Highly Stable Lithium Metal Anode
Authors: Zhong Yuan , Su Yaqing , Huang Peng , Jiang Qiu , Lin Yue , Wu Haiyang , Hensen Emiel J. M. , Abdelkader Amr. M. , Xi Kai , Lai Chao , Chou Shulei
Published: February 2022

Metallic lithium batteries are holding great promises for revolutionizing the current energy storage technologies. However, the formation of dendrite‐like morphology of lithium deposition caused by uneven distribution of Li+ might cause severe safety concerns of batteries. In this study, a polyoxometalate (POM) cluster, H5PMo10V2O40 (PMo10V2), is added to the conventional electrolyte that can construct a lithium‐rich layer and inhibit the growth of Li dendrites effectively. The Li‐rich layer can fill any lack of lithium ions on the surface of the metal anode, making the electric field strength consistent across the anode surface, thereby inhibiting the formation of lithium dendrites. Consequently, a significantly prolonged cyclic lifespan is obtained for both Li/Li symmetric cells and Li/LiCoO2 (Li/LCO) full cells. The cells with LCO positive maintains a high reversible specific capacity of 108.5 mAh g−1 after 300 cycles when electrolyte with PMo10V2 additive is used, compared to 31.5 mAh g−1 for the untreated electrolyte. The findings indicate that POMs endowed as “ionic sponge” can be widely deployed in lithium metal batteries.
An exploratory study on the presence of Helicobacter heilmannii and Helicobacter billis in the feces of companion dogs
Authors: Fatemi Khader Mahdi , Pourmahdi Borujeni Mahdi , Moori Bakhtiari Naghmeh , Avizeh Reza
Published: February 2022

Background

Companion animals like dogs play an important role in the lives of many people and are often considered to be members of families, but definitely, any contact with them poses an inherent risk of transmitting zoonotic pathogens. One of these pathogens is the genus Helicobacter which is linked to many disorders in human and animal.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of some zoonotic species of genus Helicobacter in companion dogs.

Results

Through culturing in a special medium, nine samples (9%) were detected as infected (two pure and seven mixed culture). Based on multiplex‐PCR, 13 samples (13%) were infected by Helicobacter spp. although none of them were infected by H. pylori. Species‐specific PCR indicated that 38.5% or 5/13 of the samples were infected with H. heilmannii, while 15.45% or 2/13 of the samples were infected by H. billis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the age factor had a significant effect on Helicobacter spp. infection (odds ratio [OR] = 2.42, p = 0.01).

Conclusion

This study revealed the negligible faecal transmission of H. pylori. Moreover, due to the detection of H. Heilmannii and H. billis in feces and their association with human gastric diseases, dog owners should be educated about the risks and transmission modes of zoonotic bacterial infections of dogs.
Introduction
Authors: Sjölander-Lindqvist Annelie
Published: February 2022

Anthropology’s focus on the holistic dimensions of the human condition, its interest in understanding humankind’s cultural variation wherever it occurs, and its sensitivity to both similarities and differences, while never losing sight of the powers of politics, ideologies, economies, and ecologies, provide a solid foundation for the exploration and understanding of environmental communication. This book tries to make sense of how an anthropological perspective can further our understanding of the diversity of environmental communication and the different ways people—verbally and non-verbally—communicate about and with their surrounding environments. An important aspect lies in the discussion of the communicative prospects for sustainability, seeking to bring anthropology into more theoretically and empirically productive engagement with the study of environmental communication.
Arsenic Fields: Community Understandings of Risk, Place, and Landscape
Authors: Sjölander-Lindqvist Annelie
Published: February 2022

This is a study of the communication of environmental risk associated with the planned removal of arsenic from the copper mining fields in Riddarhyttan, central Sweden. The study was implemented using in-depth interviews with community residents and representatives from the local, regional, and national governments, as well as walk-and-talk sessions near contaminated grounds to learn about the value of these places to local people and their reflections on risk. The study identified how local residents had to navigate between messages from authorities that touching stones could be life threatening at the same time as they were told that risk was non-existent. This resulted in mixed and affective feelings regarding place, community, and the role the copper industry had played in the past. The case is an illuminating example of how perception and communication is embedded in the social and cultural reality of local communities.
Cemented long versus standard femoral stem in proximal femoral metastasis: a noninferiority single-blinded quasi-randomized clinical trial
Authors: Abdelmonem Ibrahim Mahmoud , Azmy Sherif Ishak , EL Masry Ayman Mohammad , el ghazawy Ahmed k , kotb Ahmed sayed , Bassiony Ayman Abdelaziz
Published: February 2022

Background and purpose

Proximal femur is a common site for metastasis, it has a significant impact on patient’s quality of life, and traditional treatment aims at protecting as much as possible from the femur. However, recent studies have demonstrated increased rate of complications and questioned the need for long stem in this high-risk group. Our purpose is to determine whether standard-length femoral stem is noninferior to long femoral stem in the treatment of proximal femoral metastasis.

Patients and methods

Between 2019 and 2021, we prospectively included 24 patients with proximal femoral metastasis leading either to impending or pathological fractures (5 and 19 cases, respectively). We included patients with lesions due to metastasis, lymphoma, or multiple myeloma. Patients were quasi-randomized based on their order of presentation into two groups based on the femoral stem length, cemented standard (group 1) and long (group 2) femoral stem. Oncological complications, survival, stem complications, and functional outcomes were recorded and analyzed using SPSS 25.

Results

24 patients were included in the final analysis, 13 case in group 1 and 11 in group 2, and mean age 57.6 years. Mean follow-up duration was 10 months, and 11 patients died of the whole-study population with mean survival of (10.85 ± 2.23, 8.82 ± 3.6) months in group 1, 2, respectively. The complication rate was higher in the standard group; however, this difference did not reach statistical significance. No difference was found between study groups regarding functional outcomes, except for VAS at 6 months which was higher in standard group.

Conclusion

We believe that the ubiquitous use of long stem in the management of proximal femoral metastasis should be questioned considering the expected patient survival and low rate of complications associated with the use of standard stem.

Clinicaltrials.gov registration number

NCT04660591.
Drilling of recycled carbon fibre–reinforced polymer (rCFRP) composites: analysis of burrs and microstructure
Authors: Geier Norbert , Poór Dániel István , Pereszlai Csongor , Tamás-Bényei Péter
Published: February 2022

Since governments encourage sustainability, industries are making great efforts to reuse or recycle carbon fibre–reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites. Despite the promising early results concerning the material properties of recycled CFRP, there is no published knowledge available about their machinability. In this study, drilling-induced micro and macro-sized geometrical defects were analysed and compared in virgin and recycled CFRP. A total of 180 drilling experiments were carried out using uncoated solid carbide cutting tools. Six different CFRP composites were tested at different feeds. The burr characteristics and microstructure were analysed by optical and scanning electron microscopy. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) results suggest that the formation of drilling-induced burrs in CFRP reinforced by recycled chopped and nonwoven mats is less pronounced than in virgin CFRP. Micro- and macro-sized geometrical defects in both recycled and virgin milled CFRP were negligible. This study found no relevant objection to using recycled CFRP from the point of view of drilling-induced burrs and microstructure damage.
Effektives Lehren und Lernen in der Informatik, Wirtschaftsinformatik und verwandten Fachgebieten
Authors: Ellmann Mathias
Published: February 2022

In diesem Artikel behandeln wir unser Lehrbaummodell mit den Lehr- und Lernmethoden, welches zum effektiven Lehren und Lernen in der Informatik, Wirtschaftsinformatik und verwandten Fachgebieten hinführt. Das Lehrbaummodell hat in seinen Stamm Planung und Motivation als wichtigste Lehrmethodiken auf dem effektives Lehren und Lernen basiert. Die Blätter des Lehrbaummodells wie Kommunikation, Material, Gedächtnis, Aufmerksamkeit, Lernstörung und Aktivierung im Unterricht stellen notwendige Teile des effektiven Lehren und Lernens dar und schließlich folgt der Gipfel: die Überprüfung auf Effektivität des Unterrichts und der Lehrmethoden. Wir zeigen Wege auf, wie der Wandel von traditionellen Lehrmethoden wie des Haltens eines Vortrags oder einer Vorlesung mit wenig Interaktion zu moderneren, effektiveren Methoden durch die Verwendung des Lehrbaummodells stattfinden kann. Der Artikel zeigt auf, wie Frustration im Lehren und Lernen in der Informatik, Wirtschaftsinformatik und verwandten Fachgebieten vermieden und effektiver gelehrt und gelernt werden kann. Wir versuchen, mit diesen Artikel einen Wandel von traditionellen Lehrmethoden zu psychologisch moderneren Lehrmethoden zu ermöglichen.
Burnout among German oncologists: a cross-sectional study in cooperation with the Arbeitsgemeinschaft Internistische Onkologie Quality of Life Working Group
Authors: Helaß Madeleine , Haag Georg Martin , Bankstahl Ulli Simone , Gencer Deniz , Maatouk Imad
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Oncologists are at an increased risk of developing burnout, leading to negative consequences in patient care and in professional satisfaction and quality of life. This study was designed to investigate exhaustion and disengagement among German oncologists and assess the prevalence of burnout among oncologists within different professional settings. Furthermore, we wanted to examine possible relations between sociodemographic factors, the oncological setting, professional experience and different aspects of burnout.

Methods

In a cross-sectional study design, an Internet-based survey was conducted with 121 oncologists between April and July 2020 using the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory, which contains items on exhaustion, disengagement, and burnout. Furthermore, sociodemographic data of the participants were assessed. The participants were members of the Working Group Medical Oncology (Arbeitsgemeinschaft Internistische Onkologie) within the German Cancer Society.

Results

The survey showed a burnout prevalence of 43.8%, which correlated with age and professional experience; that is, the prevalence is particularly high among younger oncologists. Exhaustion is closely related to employment status; that is, it was significantly higher among employed oncologists. There were remarkably low levels of disengagement among oncologists, highlighting the own demand to fulfil job requirements despite imminent or actual overburdening in daily work.

Conclusion

More support is necessary to mitigate the professional stressors in the healthcare system. To ensure quality medical care, employees should be offered preventive mental health services early in their careers.
Fully automated quantification of cardiac chamber and function assessment in 2-D echocardiography: clinical feasibility of deep learning-based algorithms
Authors: Kim Sekeun , Park Hyung-Bok , Jeon Jaeik , Arsanjani Reza , Heo Ran , Lee Sang-Eun , Moon Inki , Yoo Sun Kook , Chang Hyuk-Jae
Published: February 2022

We aimed to compare the segmentation performance of the current prominent deep learning (DL) algorithms with ground-truth segmentations and to validate the reproducibility of the manually created 2D echocardiographic four cardiac chamber ground-truth annotation. Recently emerged DL based fully-automated chamber segmentation and function assessment methods have shown great potential for future application in aiding image acquisition, quantification, and suggestion for diagnosis. However, the performance of current DL algorithms have not previously been compared with each other. In addition, the reproducibility of ground-truth annotations which are the basis of these algorithms have not yet been fully validated. We retrospectively enrolled 500 consecutive patients who underwent transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) from December 2019 to December 2020. Simple U-net, Res-U-net, and Dense-U-net algorithms were compared for the segmentation performances and clinical indices such as left atrial volume (LAV), left ventricular end diastolic volume (LVEDV), left ventricular end systolic volume (LVESV), LV mass, and ejection fraction (EF) were evaluated. The inter- and intra-observer variability analysis was performed by two expert sonographers for a randomly selected echocardiographic view in 100 patients (apical 2-chamber, apical 4-chamber, and parasternal short axis views). The overall performance of all DL methods was excellent [average dice similarity coefficient (DSC) 0.91 to 0.95 and average Intersection over union (IOU) 0.83 to 0.90], with the exception of LV wall area on PSAX view (average DSC of 0.83, IOU 0.72). In addition, there were no significant difference in clinical indices between ground truth and automated DL measurements. For inter- and intra-observer variability analysis, the overall intra observer reproducibility was excellent: LAV (ICC = 0.995), LVEDV (ICC = 0.996), LVESV (ICC = 0.997), LV mass (ICC = 0.991) and EF (ICC = 0.984). The inter-observer reproducibility was slightly lower as compared to intraobserver agreement: LAV (ICC = 0.976), LVEDV (ICC = 0.982), LVESV (ICC = 0.970), LV mass (ICC = 0.971), and EF (ICC = 0.899). The three current prominent DL-based fully automated methods are able to reliably perform four-chamber segmentation and quantification of clinical indices. Furthermore, we were able to validate the four cardiac chamber ground-truth annotation and demonstrate an overall excellent reproducibility, but still with some degree of inter-observer variability.
The Explanatory Power of Deflationary Truth
Authors: Bradley Darren
Published: February 2022

It is widely believed that deflationary truth has no explanatory power. I will argue that it does. Specifically, I will consider some objections to deflationary truth having explanatory power, and argue that they fail. The position which will emerge is that the deflationary concept of truth is analogous to the concept of an average. Scientists take averages to be explanatory, and I will argue that the concept of deflationary truth is explanatory in the same way. I then argue that this deflationary concept of truth motivates a theory of the property of truth which is metaphysically disunified, but that this is no obstacle to explanation. This leads to a way of understanding the deflationary/substantive distinction in terms of grounding.
Using Quotas as a Remedy for Structural Injustice
Authors: Barabás György , Szigeti András
Published: February 2022

We analyze a frequent but undertheorized form of structural injustice, one that arises due to the difficulty of reaching numerically equitable representation of underrepresented subgroups within a larger group. This form of structural injustice is significant because it could occur even if it were possible to completely eliminate bias and overt discrimination from hiring and recruitment practices. The conceptual toolkit we develop can be used to analyze such situations and propose remedies. Specifically, based on a simple mathematical model, we offer a new argument in favour of quotas, explore implications for policy-making, and consider the wider philosophical significance of the problem. We show that in order to reach more equitable representations, quota-based recruitment may often be practically unavoidable. Assuming that members of groups in statistical minority are more likely to quit due to their marginalization, their proportions can stabilize at a low level, preventing a shift towards more equal representation and conserving the minority status of the subgroup. We show that this argument has important implications for addressing, preventing, and remediating the structural injustice of unfair representation.
Curlicues generated by circle homeomorphisms
Authors: Signerska-Rynkowska Justyna
Published: February 2022

We investigate the curves in the complex plane which are generated by sequences of real numbers being the lifts of the points on the orbit of an orientation preserving circle homeomorphism. Geometrical properties of these curves such as boundedness, superficiality, local discrete radius of curvature are linked with dynamical properties of the circle homeomorphism which generates them: rotation number and its continued fraction expansion, existence of a continuous solution of the corresponding cohomological equation and displacement sequence along the orbit.
Rethinking Husserl’s lifeworld: The many faces of the world in Heidegger’s early Freiburg lecture courses
Authors: Galanti Grollo Sebastiano
Published: February 2022

This paper examines the concept of the world elaborated by Heidegger in the early Freiburg lecture courses of the years 1919 to 1923, in which he proposes a renewed conception of phenomenology through a comparison with Husserlian phenomenology. First, I show that although the theme of the lifeworld became central only in late Husserlian works, especially inThe Crisis of European Sciences, Husserl began to deal with this concept before 1920, anticipating some fundamental issues of theCrisis, as it results from the lectures of 1919 onNatur und Geist. Husserl had addressed the concept of the world already in the lectures of 1910/11,The Basic Problems of Phenomenology, and, subsequently, in the second book ofIdeas, which was published posthumously, but which was known to the young Heidegger. Then, I discuss the way in which Heidegger revisited the issue of the world in the early Freiburg lecture courses by means of a critique of Husserl’s analysis, focusing on perceptual experience as “environmental experience” and on the “world-character” of life. Particular emphasis is placed on the distinction between “environing-world,” “with-world,” and “self-world,” which Heidegger introduces in the lectures of 1919–1920. Finally, I point out that the Heideggerian rethinking of the concept of lifeworld is closely connected to the recognition of the immanent historicity of life, while Husserl only later takes into account the historicity of the lifeworld.
Kontrastmittelinduzierte Nierenfunktionsstörungen gemessen am Serumcystatin C
Authors: Vahed Farshad Moussazadeh , Trappe Hans-Joachim
Published: February 2022

Die Bedeutung der kontrastmittelinduzierten Nierenfunktionsstörung (CIN) ist unklar. Diese prospektive Studie untersucht den Einfluss der Hypovolämie auf die Cystatin-C-Werte nach Kontrastmittelexposition im Rahmen einer Herzkatheteruntersuchung.

Patienten und Methoden

Insgesamt wurden 103 Patienten, davon 49 euvolämische und 54 hypovolämische (68,72 ± 12,36 Jahren, 63,10 % männlich) eingeschlossen. Der Volumenstatus wurde anhand ultraschallgestützter Bestimmung des Collapsibility Index der V. cava inferior bestimmt. Vor, am ersten und zweiten Tag nach der HKU wurden Cystatin-C-Werte bestimmt. Ein Anstieg um 10 % der Baseline wurde als CINB deklariert.

Ergebnisse

Bei 8 (16,33 %) euvolämen und 21 (38,89 %) hypovolämen Patienten erkrankten an einer CINB (p = 0,015). Das relative Risiko (RR) für eine CINB bei hypovolämen Patienten betrug 2,38 (95 %-KI = 1,163–4,877) (p = 0,015). Vorhofflimmern (VHF) war ebenfalls ein Risikofaktor für eine CINB: RR = 2,488 (95 %-KI = 1,373–4,508) (p = 0,003); OR = 6,606 (95 %-KI = 1,909–22,861). Patienten mit einem BMI > 30 kg/m2 hatten ein erhöhtes Risiko, an einer CINB zu erkranken: OR = 4,326 (95 %-KI = 1,281–14,602) (p = 0,018), RR = 2,166 (95 %-KI = 1,163–4,036) (p = 0,014). Patienten, die Schleifendiuretika einnahmen, ebenfalls ein erhöhtes Risiko für eine CINB: RR = 1,976 (95 %-KI = 1,056–3,699) (p = 0,033). Die chronische Herzinsuffizienz (CHF) war ein prädiktiver Faktor für die CINB: OR = 13,27 (95 %-KI = 1,453–121,199) (p = 0,018).

Schlussfolgerungen

Definiert man die akute Nierenfunktionsstörung anhand einer Serumcystatin-C-Erhöhung > 10 %, weisen hypovoläme Patienten ein erhöhtes Risiko für eine CINB nach Kontrastmittelexposition auf als euvoläme Patienten. Zudem sind VHF, die CHF und die Einnahme von Diuretika mit einem erhöhten Risiko für ein CINB assoziiert.