bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CODA standard 2–24 h—“replacement of teeth” dilemma: Unintended consequences and proposed solutions
Authors: Teich Sorin T. , McPherson Karen R. , Rizzante Fabio A. P. , Cayouette Monica J.
Published: March 2023

Background

The Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) was established in 1975 with the goal of serving the public and the dental profession by developing and implementing standards that guide and maintain the quality of dental educational programs. These standards are defined broadly around competencies reflective of an evidence‐based definition of general dentistry and that should be met by the new graduates to function as an entry level provider. Consequently, CODA “expects each school to develop specific competency definitions and assessment methods in the context of the broad scope of general dental practice”.

CODA Standard 2–24 h was implemented a decade ago to address concerns that dental schools are not sufficiently proactive in incorporating implant‐related curricula and clinical competencies. When the standard was implemented, most patients already preferred dental implants over FPDs. This market trend, together with the prescriptive format of the standard, had the unintended consequence of creating pressure on programs that struggled to find enough patients who will chose FPDs as a treatment option.

Discussion

As a short term solution, we suggest a tooth replacement competency construct that has the potential to alleviate this burden. This solution incorporates principles of ethical decision making, patient‐centered care, and evidence‐based dentistry, without compromising educational aspects and competency development. For the longer term, we suggested to revise and rephrase the standard so that it will be clinically‐centered rather than focused on technical tools that may evolve, change, or disappear as a result of technological progress and other market trends. This, in turn, will be conducive to fulfill the intent of Standard 2–24 to allow the schools to identify “competencies that will be included in the curriculum based on the school's goals, resources, accepted general practitioner responsibilities and other influencing factors.”
Experiences of agency in historically underrepresented racial and ethnic dental faculty at predominantly white institutions
Authors: Yarbrough Lisa N. , Konopasky Abigail , Wyatt Tasha R.
Published: March 2023

Purpose/objectives

Historically underrepresented racial and ethnic (HURE) dentists remain underrepresented in dental education and dental practice, and surprisingly, little is known about the factors that enable them to thrive. The lack of information about their experiences is a critical gap in the literature. The purpose of this critical qualitative study is to describe how HURE dental faculty in predominantly white institutions (PWIs) exercise agency to thrive and advance in academic promotion when faced with challenges and adversity in the workplace.

Methods

Thirteen semi‐structured interviews were conducted in 2021 and 2022 with HURE dental faculty from 10 different institutions. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using the construct of agency and tenets of critical race theory to understand how they thrive in their institutions.

Results

HURE dental faculty experienced racism as normal from both faculty and students. Racism centered around white faculty guarding access to white spaces, including things that should be open to everyone like meetings and information about promotion. To counter this, HURE faculty engaged in individual agency by fighting for their perspectives to be heard, proxy agency by seeking and building relationships with mentors and colleagues who could use their whiteness to create change, and improvisational agency by going outside their institutions for support.

Conclusion(s)

To thrive in PWIs requires HURE faculty to exercise various forms of agency to directly or indirectly advocate for themselves as professionals. These findings have implications for dental leaders to change their existing structures and improve the work environments for HURE dental faculty.
The determination of optimum segmentation parameters using genetic algorithms: Application to different segmentation algorithms and transmission electron microscopy tomography reconstructed volumes
Authors: Fernandez Martinez Roberto , Okariz Ana , Iturrondobeitia Maider , Ibarretxe Julen
Published: March 2023

A method for optimizing an automatic selection of values for parameters that feed segmentation algorithms is proposed. Evolutionary optimization techniques in combination with a fitness function based on a mutual information parameter have been used to find the optimal parameter values of region growing, fuzzy c‐means and graph cut segmentation algorithms. To validate the method, the segmentation of two transmission electron microscopy tomography reconstructed volumes of a carbon black‐reinforced rubber and a polylactic acid and clay nanocomposite is carried out (i) using evolutionary optimization techniques and (ii) manually by experts. The results confirm that the use of evolutionary optimization techniques, such as genetic algorithms, reduces the computational operation cost needed for a total grid search of segmentation parameters, reducing the probability of reaching a false optimum, and improving the segmentation quality.

Highlights

A new approach to optimize 3D segmentation algorithms.

Methodology to optimize segmentation parameters and improve segmentation quality.

Improvement on the results when using region growing, fuzzy c‐means and graph cuts algorithms.
Disparate Radiation‐Induced Microstructural Injuries in Whole‐Brain White Matter of Patients With Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma: A Longitudinal Study Using Multishell Diffusion MRI
Authors: Liang Jiahui , Zhang Xinyuan , Lin Yuhao , Fu Gui , Pan Jie , Feng Yanqiu , Lv Xiaofei
Published: March 2023

Background

Evidence for prevention strategies of radiotherapy (RT)‐related injury in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) was lacking. Understanding the dynamic alterations in the cerebral white matter (WM) microstructure after RT may be helpful.

Purpose

To investigate the dynamic alterations in the whole brain WM microstructure in patients with NPC in the 12 months after RT using multishell diffusion MRI (MS‐dMRI).

Study Type

Single‐center longitudinal study.

Population

A total of 28 treatment‐naïve patients with pathologically confirmed NPC (age: 39.68 ± 8.93 years, 11 female) and 20 healthy controls (age: 40.65 ± 9.76 years, 7 female).

Field Strength/Sequences

A 3 T, MS‐dMRI using a single‐shot echo planar imaging sequence.

Assessment

MS‐dMRI was acquired at baseline for the NPC patients and healthy controls, at 0–3 (acute, AC), 6 (early delayed, ED) and 12 months (late delayed, LD) after RT for the NPC patients. The mean and maximum radiation doses to the temporal lobe were acquired. The quality of images was reviewed. MS‐dMRI was analyzed using tract‐based spatial statistics (TBSS). The presentations of injury were defined by the findings of TBSS.

Statistical Tests

Chi‐square, t tests, repeated ANOVA, and Spearman‐rank correlation analysis were used. P < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

Results

TBSS showed two WM injuries (injuries 1 and 2). Injury 1 emerged in the ED phase in the bilateral temporal poles and persisted throughout the ED and LD phases. Injury 2 developed from the AC to ED phase in the bilateral hemisphere and partially recovered in the LD phase. In the ED and LD phases, the multiple diffusion metrics were well correlated (r > 0.5 or <−0.5) with the RT dose, especially in the WM tracts in the temporal lobes.

Data Conclusion

Disparate WM injuries were observed in NPC patients after RT. The injuries may be primarily or secondarily induced by radiation. Injury 1 may be irreversible, while injury 2 seems to partially recover.

Evidence Level

2.

Technical Efficacy

Stage 4.
A Multicenter Study on Preoperative Assessment of Lymphovascular Space Invasion in Early‐Stage Cervical Cancer Based on Multimodal MR Radiomics
Authors: Wu Yu , Wang Shuxing , Chen Yiqing , Liao Yuting , Yin Xuntao , Li Ting , Wang Rui , Luo Xiaomei , Xu Wenchan , Zhou Jing , Wang Simin , Bu Jun , Zhang Xiaochun
Published: March 2023

Background

As lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI) was closely related to lymph node metastasis and prognosis, the preoperative assessment of LVSI in early‐stage cervical cancer is crucial for patients.

Purpose

To develop and validate nomogram based on multimodal MR radiomics to assess LVSI status in cervical cancer patients.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

The study included 168 cervical cancer patients, of whom 129 cases (age 51.36 ± 9.99 years) from institution 1 were included as the training cohort and 39 cases (age 52.59 ± 10.23 years) from institution 2 were included as the external test cohort.

Field Strength/Sequence

There were 1.5 T and 3.0 T MRI scans (T1‐weighted imaging [T1WI], fat‐saturated T2‐weighted imaging [FS‐T2WI], and contrast‐enhanced [CE]).

Assessment

Six machine learning models were built and selected to construct the radiomics signature. The nomogram model was constructed by combining the radiomics signature with the clinical signature, which was then validated for discrimination, calibration, and clinical usefulness.

Statistical Tests

The clinical characteristics were compared using t‐tests, Mann–Whitney U tests, or chi‐square tests. The Spearman and LASSO methods were used to select radiomics features. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed, and the area under the curve (AUC), accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity were calculated.

Results

The logistic regression (LR) model performed best in each sequence. The AUC of CE‐T1‐T2WI‐combined was the highest in the LR model, with an AUC of 0.775 (95% CI: 0.570–0.979) in external test cohort. The nomogram showed high predictive performance in the training (AUC: 0.883 [95% CI: 0.823–0.943]) and test cohort (AUC: 0.830 [95% CI: 0.657–1.000]) for predicting LVSI. Decision curve analysis demonstrated that the nomogram was clinically useful.

Data Conclusion

Our findings suggest that the proposed nomogram model based on multimodal MRI of CE T1WI‐T2WI‐combined could be used to assess LVSI status in early cervical cancer.

Evidence Level

4.

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2.
Porous tip radiofrequency ablation catheter reduced heart failure‐related complications and healthcare resource utilization in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation patients
Authors: Costea Alexandru , Haile Bereket , Barone Adam , Schenthal Maddie , Romanowicz Kathrine , Rajsheker Srinivas , Boo Lee Ming , Hunter Tina D.
Published: March 2023

Introduction

A 56‐hole porous tip radiofrequency catheter was developed to provide more uniform cooling with less fluid delivery than a prior 6‐hole irrigated design. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of contact force (CF) ablation with the porous tip on complications (congestive heart failure [CHF] and non‐CHF related), healthcare resource utilization, and procedural efficiency in patients undergoing de novo paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) ablations in a real‐world setting.

Methods

Consecutive de novo PAF ablations were performed between February 2014 and March 2019 by six operators at a single US academic center. The 6‐hole design was used through December 2016 with the 56‐hole porous tip adopted in October 2016. The outcomes of interest included symptomatic CHF presentation and CHF‐related complications.

Results

Of 174 patients who were included, mean age was 61.1 ± 10.8 years, 67.8% were male, and 25.3% had a history of CHF. Ablation with the porous tip catheter significantly decreased fluid delivery (1177 vs. 1912 mL with the 6‐hole design; p < .0001). CHF‐related complications within 7 days, particularly fluid overload, were substantially reduced with the porous tip (15.2% vs. 5.3% of patients; p = .0281) and the proportion of patients with symptomatic CHF presentation within 30 days postablation was significantly lower (14.7% vs. 32.5%; p = .0058).

Conclusion

The 56‐hole porous tip led to significantly reduced CHF‐related complications and healthcare utilization in PAF patients undergoing CF catheter ablation when compared to the prior 6‐hole design. This reduction likely results from the significant decrease in fluid delivery during the procedure.
Spatio‐temporal pattern and driving mechanisms of land use conflicts changes (2010–2018) in the Bohai Rim transition zone
Authors: Zong Shanshan , Hu Yecui , Bai Yuping
Published: March 2023

With the rapid development of society and economy in the coastal regions, conflicts between ecological protection and human exploitation are inevitable. However, previous studies on the Spatio‐temporal evolution of conflicts in the coastal transition zone are insufficient, and the majority ignore the dependence of data on space. This study constructed a multi‐objective evaluation model from three angles (ecological, agriculture, and construction). It evaluated the dynamics of land use conflicts (LUCs) in the Bohai Rim transition zone for 2010, 2015, and 2018 at 30 m2 spatial resolution using the multi‐factor superposition method. The driving mechanism of LUCs was explored from the perspectives of natural and socio‐economic by applying the spatial econometric method. Major findings of this study indicated that there was a critical Spatio‐temporal mismatch in the spatial distribution of three types of land suitability around the Bohai Sea from 2010 to 2018. On the grid scale, an estimated LUCs area in 2010 was 1.21 × 105 km2, which decreased to 1.20 × 105 km2 in 2018. On the country scale, the conflict index displayed a polarized spatial distribution of “high in the south and low in the north,” and its spatial disparity showed a narrowing trend. Moreover, LUC types showed different change characteristics along the sea‐land direction. It ought to be noticed that the spatial clustering pattern of LUCs resulted from the combined action of various factors. This study's logical framework and outcomes could be utilized for formulating reasonable land use patterns to reduce the LUCs in the coastal transition zone.
Existence of ground‐state solutions for p‐Choquard equations with singular potential and doubly critical exponents
Authors: Liu Senli , Chen Haibo
Published: March 2023

We are concerned with the following Choquard equation:
where , , , , is the p‐Laplacian, is the Riesz potential, and F is the primitive of f which is of critical growth due to the Hardy–Littlewood–Sobolev inequality. Under different range of θ and almost necessary conditions on the nonlinearity f in the spirit of Berestycki–Lions‐type conditions, we divide this paper into three parts. By applying the refined Sobolev inequality with Morrey norm and the generalized version of the Lions‐type theorem, some existence results are established. It is worth noting that our method is not involving the concentration–compactness principle.
Environmental tax policy and optimal privatization in a polluting mixed duopoly
Authors: Xing Mingqing , Tan Tingting , Ma Xuejun , Wang Xia
Published: March 2023

We investigate the optimal privatization policy in a polluting mixed duopoly when environmental taxes are used. Firms adopt clean technology to reduce emissions. We consider the situation of exogenous tax and find that (i) partial privatization is always optimal under low marginal damage, while full nationalization may be optimal under high marginal damage; (ii) the optimal privatization level always increases with tax rate under low marginal damage, while it may decrease with tax rate under high marginal damage. As an extension, we consider the endogenous tax situation and show that full nationalization may be optimal under sufficiently high marginal damage.
The esthetic outcome of recipient sites of gracilis muscle flaps versus anterolateral thigh flaps: A retrospective study
Authors: Fricke A. , Rassner M. , Kiefer J. , Eisenhardt S. U.
Published: March 2023

Background

Anterolateral thigh (ALT) and gracilis muscle flaps have been described as comparable reconstructive options regarding maximal flap dimension and indications. However, split‐thickness skin‐grafted muscle flaps are generally believed to be inferior to perforator flaps regarding the esthetic outcome of the recipient site. The purpose of this study was to challenge this assumption, comparing the long‐term esthetic outcome of the gracilis and the ALT flap.

Methods

One hundred forty‐eight patients who had undergone free flap reconstruction with either free split‐thickness skin‐grafted gracilis muscle flaps (n = 86) or ALT flaps (n = 62) were evaluated in the study. Patients' satisfaction with the esthetic outcome, rates of flap loss, wound healing disorders and the necessity for thinning the flap or scar correction procedures were assessed.

Results

Flap loss occurred in 4 of 86 gracilis flaps (4.7%) and 2 of 62 (3.2%) ALT flaps (p > .9999). Thinning or scar correction procedures were necessary for 6 of 86 gracilis (7.0%) and 4 of 62 (6.5%; p > .9999) ALT flap recipient sites. Regarding the overall patients' satisfaction with the esthetic outcome, scores were similar in both groups (2.667 [ALT] vs. 2.348 [gracilis]; p = .3739). Contour deformity, scar hypertrophy, and difference in flap color/texture in relation to the surrounding skin were comparable throughout the ALT and gracilis group (2.667 vs. 2.174, p = .2099; 3.333 vs. 2.739, p = .0912 and 2.500 vs. 2.174, p = .3159, respectively).

Conclusion

The gracilis and ALT flap are two equivalent reconstructive options regarding the esthetic outcome of the recipient site and long‐term patient satisfaction.
Modeling the influence of vaccination coverage on the dynamics of COVID‐19 pandemic with the effect of environmental contamination
Authors: Kumar Rai Rajanish , Kumar Tiwari Pankaj , Khajanchi Subhas
Published: March 2023

The emergence of COVID‐19 pandemic has been a major social as well as economic challenges around the globe. Infections from the infected surfaces have also been identified as drivers of COVID‐19 transmission, but most of the epidemic models do not include the effect of environmental contamination to account for the indirect transmission of the disease. The present study is devoted to the investigation of the effect of environmental contamination on the spread of the coronavirus pandemic by means of a mathematical model. We also consider the impact of vaccination coverage as an effective control measure against COVID‐19. The proposed model is analyzed to discuss the feasibility as well as stability of the disease‐free and endemic equilibria; an epidemic threshold in the form of basic reproduction number is obtained. Further, we incorporate the effect of seasonal periodic changes by letting the rate of direct transmission of disease as time dependent, and find sufficient conditions for the global attractivity of the positive periodic solution. We employ sophisticated techniques of sensitivity analysis to identify model parameters which significantly alter the epidemic threshold and the disease prevalence. We find that by enhancing the vaccination of the susceptible population and hospitalization of the symptomatic/asymptomatic individuals, the basic reproduction number can be lowered to a value less than unity. The findings show that the prevalence of disease can be potentially suppressed by increasing the vaccination of susceptible population, hospitalization of infected people and depletion of environmental contamination. Moreover, we observe that seasonal pattern in the disease transmission causes persistence of the pandemic in the population for a longer period.
Wave control of a flexible space tether based on elastic metamaterials
Authors: Huang Yexiong , Chen Enmin , Sun Jialiang , Jin Dongping
Published: March 2023

This study proposes a spider‐web elastic metamaterial to suppress vibrations in space slender structures, such as flexible space tethers. The metamaterial consists of unit cells that are periodically distributed on the space tether to obtain band gaps. The finite element model of the unit cell is established by employing the absolute nodal coordinate formulation (ANCF) due to the large deformation of the structure. The eigenfrequencies and corresponding vibration modes of the unit cell are obtained by ANCF. Moreover, the band gap of the unit cell is calculated based on the phonon crystal theory. The relationship between the vibration modes and the band gaps is analyzed. Finally, an experiment is conducted to verify the vibration transmission characteristics of finite period cells. The results show the effectiveness of the spider‐web elastic metamaterial for vibration suppression of a flexible tether. This study provides insights into the use of elastic metamaterials for vibration isolation in space tether systems.
A case study of the utilization of clozapine treatment for treatment‐resistant schizophrenia associated with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome
Authors: Tsurue Arisa , Funahashi Hideki , Tsurue Keiichi , Kawano Masahiko , Ishida Yasushi , Hirano Yoji
Published: March 2023

Background

The optimal treatment strategy for patients with treatment‐resistant schizophrenia (TRS) associated with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (DS) remains a subject of debate.

Case Presentation

We present the case of a 40‐year‐old female patient diagnosed with TRS and 22q11.2DS who was effectively treated with clozapine. She was diagnosed with schizophrenia and mild intellectual disability during her adolescence; despite being hospitalized for a period of 10 years beginning in her 30s, she continued to exhibit symptoms of impulsivity, and explosive behavior, requiring periods of isolation. We ultimately decided to switch her medication to clozapine, which was administered with caution and gradually titrated upward, with no discernable adverse effects, resulting in a marked improvement in her symptoms and obviated the need for isolation. Subsequently, the patient's history of congenital heart disease and facial abnormalities prompted initial suspicions of a 22q11.2DS diagnosis, which was subsequently confirmed through genetic testing.

Conclusion

Clozapine may serve as an efficacious pharmacological intervention for TRS patients with 22q11.2DS, including those of Asian descent.
Impact of the Covid‐19 pandemic on gestational weight gain: A French cohort study
Authors: Lodi Massimo , Meyer Nicolas , Lecointre Lise , Deruelle Philippe
Published: March 2023

Introduction

To investigate whether the quarantine periods due to the COVID‐19 pandemic were associated with excessive gestational weight gain.

Methods

This single‐centre retrospective observational French cohort study studied 23 774 pregnant women from 2017 to 2020 who had an obstetrical follow‐up consultation with a weight measurement in Strasbourg University Hospitals. We defined four time periods according to the two quarantine periods in France: (1) prequarantine, (2) first quarantine (all‐day curfew); (3) between quarantines, and (4) second quarantine (all‐day curfew). Inferential analyses and models were conducted using Bayesian methods.

Results

We developed three Bayesian models to explore the impact of quarantines on GWG. Mean GWG was 8.3 kg (standard deviation 5.0 kg) for a mean gestational age at consultation of 28.5 weeks. Compared to the same calendar periods from 2017 to 2019, the probabilities of a clinically significant increase in GWG (≥1 kg) during the different quarantine periods were extremely low (<0.001). Mean GWG was stable during the first quarantine (−0.13 kg; 95% confidence interval (CI) −0.30, 0.03) while it increased between quarantines (+0.20 kg; 95% CI 0.07, 0.35) and during the second quarantine (0.30 kg; 95% CI 0.12, 0.52).

Conclusion

This study showed that COVID‐19 quarantine periods were not associated with a clinically significant excessive GWG, even if during the period between quarantines and during the second quarantine there was a slight increase in GWG. Pregnant women can therefore be reassured concerning this problem.
Adaptive coding modulation selection optimisation scheme for Ka‐band LEO mobile satellites
Authors: Shen Hongrong , Ning Qian , Chen Bingcai
Published: March 2023

To address the problem that Ka‐band satellite communication signal transmission is easily affected by rainfall and terminal environment, combining the characteristics of high‐speed movement of LEO satellites and the wave propagation characteristics of satellite‐ground links, this paper establishes a Markov synthesis model of four‐state satellite channels based on Ka‐band that integrates rainfall attenuation and terminal shadow attenuation, and a scheme for adaptive coding and modulation selection based on the DVB‐S2 standard is proposed. Based on this, a rainfall fading probability density function (PDF) based on the satellite elevation angle variation is derived, and a more efficient and streamlined set of modulation and coding(MODCOD) is obtained through simulations and calculations. The simulation results show that the proposed scheme not only effectively solves the problem of severe fading of the transmission signal due to rainfall, ground movement environment and satellite mobility but also significantly reduces the system complexity of the original DVB‐S2 standard scheme with little loss of efficiency.
What is the appropriate gravel size during ureteroscopy lithotripsy? An in vitro evaluation
Authors: Song Baiyang , Jin Dan , Cheng Yue , Wang Zhengyi , Wang Fengqi , Fang Li
Published: March 2023

To propose the suitable diameter of calculus debris produced during flexible ureteroscopy lithotripsy (fURL). A glass tube was used to simulate the stone excretion process during Furl. Different stone diameters (0.50–1.00 mm, 0.25–0.50 mm, and 0.10–0.25 mm) with three sizes of flexible ureteroscopy (fURS) (7.5Fr, 8.7Fr, and 9.9Fr) and ureteral access sheath (UAS) (12/14Fr) with or without negative pressure suction were employed in the experiment. The intraoperative calculi excretion (ICE) was recorded according to the stones discharged from the gap between fURS and UAS. The ICE raised significantly in thinner fURS and UAS due to the smaller Ratio of Endoscope-Sheath Diameter (RESD). The gravel size ≤ 0.25 mm was conducive to drainage with traditional UAS, while using fURS with negative-pressure UAS could significantly improve ICE. The gravel size ≤ 0.5 mm was conducive to expulsion. We clarify that ICE during ureteroscopy relates to RESD and negative pressure suction. The proper size of the stone fragment is critical in ensuring the expulsion during fURL, ≤ 0.25 mm in traditional UAS and ≤ 0.50 mm in negative-pressure UAS, respectively.
The analytical beam element model: novel approach for fast calculation of vibrations in electric machines
Authors: Gerlach Martin Enno , de Barros Allan , Huang Xudong , Langfermann Markus , Ponick Bernd , Ebrahimi Amir
Published: March 2023

The vibration and acoustic behavior of electric machines is an important aspect of the design process. A crucial part of the modeling is the correct prediction of the stator’s vibration behavior, characterized by the stator’s eigenfrequencies and eigenmodes. For this purpose, a calculation approach called the analytical beam element model (ABM) was presented in a previous paper [18], where Euler–Bernoulli beams were used to describe the vibration behavior of the stator. The ABM introduced offers an alternative to the finite element (FE) method and to classical analytical models. In this paper, the model is examined and extended further. Different approaches conceived to better describe the influence of the stator yoke’s thickness by using Timoshenko beams and a multi-layer discretization are presented and discussed. Furthermore, a new feature that considers the lever arm effect of the stator teeth with respect to the yoke is introduced. The results are compared to FE calculations and measurements. Lastly, the improved ABM is used to calculate the vibration behavior of four stators with outer diameters ranging from $$160\,\text{mm}$$

160

mm

to $$7\,\text{m}$$

7

m

. The results are compared to FE results to prove the accuracy of the ABM.
Fallopia japonica and Impatiens glandulifera are colonized by species-poor root-associated fungal communities but have minor impacts on soil properties in riparian habitats
Authors: Schmitz Daniel , Girardi Johanna , Ullrich Eva , Muñoz-Sepulveda Katherine , Bundschuh Mirco , Riess Kai , Schirmel Jens
Published: March 2023

Fallopia japonica and Impatiens glandulifera are major plant invaders on a global scale that often become dominant in riparian areas. However, little is known about how these species affect interactions in soil–plant systems. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of both species on abiotic and biotic soil properties, with a special focus on fungi. We investigated eight sites along small streams invaded by F. japonica and I. glandulifera, respectively, and compared each with nearby sites dominated by the native species Urtica dioica. Three different types of samples were collected: bulk soil, rhizosphere soil and roots from invasive and native stands at each site. Bulk soil samples were analysed for soil physicochemical, microbial properties (soil microbial respiration and ergosterol) and soil arthropod abundance (Acari and Collembola). Soil respiration was also evaluated in rhizosphere samples. The fungal community composition of both bulk soil and roots were analysed using a metabarcoding approach. Soil physicochemical properties as well as soil microbial activity, fungal biomass and soil fungal operational unit taxonomic unit (OTU) richness did not differ between invaded and native riparian habitats, indicating only minor belowground impacts of the two invasive plant species. Soil microbial activity, fungal biomass and soil fungal OTU richness were rather related to the soil physicochemical properties. In contrast, Acari abundance decreased by 68% in the presence of F. japonica, while Collembola abundance increased by 11% in I. glandulifera sites. Moreover, root-associated fungal communities differed between the invasive and native plants. In F. japonica roots, fungal OTU richness of all investigated ecological groups (mycorrhiza, endophytes, parasites, saprobes) were lower compared to U. dioica. However, in I. glandulifera roots only the OTU richness of mycorrhiza and saprobic fungi was lower. Overall, our findings show that F. japonica and I. glandulifera can influence the abundance of soil arthropods and are characterized by lower OTU richness of root-associated fungi.
Synthesis and Characterization of CaFe1.925Gd0.025Sm0.05O4/PEG Core–Shell Nanoparticles for Diverse Applications
Authors: Ateia Ebtesam E. , Saeid Y. A. , Abdelmaksoud M. K.
Published: March 2023

The core–shell structure has been studied by coating polyethylene glycol (PEG) on rare-earth-doped calcium ferrite nanoparticles (RCFNPs). RCFNPs are successfully synthesized in the formula CaFe1.925Gd0.025Sm0.05O4 by the citrate nitrate auto-combustion method. The XRD pattern of PEG-coated RCFNPs observed two peaks at 19.3° and 23.6° confirming the existence of PEG, while the other peaks are attributed to the orthorhombic structure formation. The obtained samples exhibit an orthorhombic single-phase structure with an average crystallite size in the range of 18–20 nm. The elemental analysis is performed using EDAX and XPS. The doublet spectrum of Fe atoms corresponds to the valence states Fe 2P1/2 and Fe 2P3/2. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) revealed a well-designed hexagonal core/shell structure represented as a unique hexagonal PEG shell coating the synthesized RCFNPs. The magnetic hysteresis loops have been recorded using VSM. The coupling between the unpaired electrons of Fe+3 and Sm+3 ions via the p orbitals of the O−2 ions leads to the antiferromagnetic alignment. The smaller values of the switching-field distribution (SFD) and higher coercivity of the prepared samples are most appropriate for ultra-high-density recording performance. The behavior of dielectric parameters is explained on the basis of the interfacial polarization and the Maxwell–Wagner polarization models. Diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) is used to study the performance of electromagnetic reflection and estimate the optical band gaps of the samples. The obtained data shows that the coating has an important role in enhancing the reflection by up to 50%.
Initiating the transition from open-canopy lichen woodland to productive forest by transplanting moss, results from a 10-year experiment
Authors: Gao Lei , Paré David , Chavardès Raphaël D. , Bergeron Yves
Published: March 2023

Background and aims

Low productivity open lichen (Cladonia spp.) woodlands have been rapidly expanding in the closed-crown feather moss (Pleurozium schreberi (Brid.) Mitt.) boreal forest of eastern Canada. While open-woodland areas are progressing, there is little information on the recoverability of open lichen woodlands back to closed-canopy forests.

Methods

An experimental set-up using moss transplantation was installed on a poor jack pine (Pinus banksiana Lamb.) stand with a lichen ground cover in 2011. Treatments included: 1) lichen cover removed, 2) lichen cover removed and transplantation of a feather moss cover, 3) lichen control, and 4) a natural jack pine site with feather moss cover (moss control). We extracted tree stem increment cores and collected needles and soil samples for nutrient analysis.

Results

The transplanted-moss treatment can counteract the adverse effects of lichen on jack pine growth. This treatment enhanced foliar nutrition and soil nutrients, especially ammonium (N-NH4+) and nitrate (N-NO3−). With this treatment, the soil conditions (e.g., soil nutrients, soil moisture) and foliar nutrition were closer to that of moss control. Surprisingly, lichen removal treatment did not improve growth and resulted in poorer jack pine growth and harsher soil conditions.

Conclusion

Feather moss can establish, survive, and remain healthy in an environment previously occupied by lichen. The replacement of lichen by feather moss establishes soil conditions that appear conducive to better tree growth and have the potential of restoring the productivity of boreal forests in open-canopy lichen woodlands.
Does the ‘Learning Disability’ label lower teachers’ performance expectations?
Authors: Kashikar Linda , Soemers Lara , Lüke Timo , Grosche Michael
Published: March 2023

Teachers’ expectations are known to influence students’ outcomes. Specifically, better performance is observed among students for whom teachers have high expectations, and vice versa. Teachers not only form their expectations on the basis of previous achievements, but also on the (presumed) group affiliation of students. One group for whom teachers have low-performance expectations are students with learning disabilities. Studies in English-speaking countries have shown that the explicit mention of the diagnosislearning disabilitylowers teachers’ performance expectations for students labelled in this way. Our study aims to explore (1) whether the effects of this label on performance expectations can be replicated in a sample of prospective teachers in Germany, (2) whether regular and special education teachers generally differ in their expectations, and (3) whether the learning disability label influences the two professional groups differently. In an experimental design,N = 276 participants were randomly assigned to either the experimental or the control group. In both groups, they read the description of a fictitious student showing major academic problems. The student was labelled as having a learning disability in the experimental group only. Different dependent variables concerning performance expectations were evaluated. The results show that while no main effect of the learning disability label was observed, prospective special education teachers partially seem to have lower performance expectations than prospective regular education teachers. Further analysis showed that the participants in the experimental group and special education teachers suspect a learning disability more frequently. Limitations and directions for the further research are discussed.
Formen und Folgen von Schulbegleitung. Ethnografische Erkundungen im Alltag außerhalb des Unterrichts
Authors: Weinbach Hanna , Geese Natalie , Rohrmann Albrecht , Schulte Dajana
Published: March 2023

Die Forschung zu Schulbegleitung konzentriert sich bislang vor allem auf den Unterricht. Assistenzpersonen werden jedoch auch im außerunterrichtlichen Schulgeschehen eingesetzt, um inklusive Bildung und die soziale Teilhabe von Kindern und Jugendlichen, denen eine Beeinträchtigung zugeschrieben wird, zu unterstützen. In Pausen, beim Frühstück und Mittagessen, in Angeboten der Ganztagsbetreuung und bei Schul- und Klassenaktionen können junge Menschen Kontakte knüpfen sowie Freundschaften pflegen und sie tragen Konflikte aus. Formen der außerunterrichtlichen Begleitung in inklusiven Settings und ihre Folgen für das alltägliche soziale Miteinander im Hinblick auf Peer-Interaktionen werden in diesem Beitrag auf Basis ethnografisch-teilnehmender Beobachtungen an zwei Offenen Ganztagsgrundschulen rekonstruiert. Im Ergebnis zeigt sich, wie Schulbegleitung in verschiedenen Situationen außerhalb des Unterrichts mittels vielfältiger Aktivitäten als alltägliche Praxis vollzogen und ausgestaltet wird. Zwei Formen des Begleitens werden exemplarisch näher betrachtet. Wir bezeichnen sie alsdas Bootunddas unsichtbare Band. Mit diesen beiden Formen gehen differente Folgen für Peer-Interaktionen von jungen Menschen einher.
New hybrid inertial CQ projection algorithms with line-search process for the split feasibility problem
Authors: Dang Ya-zheng , Wang Long , Yang Yao-heng
Published: March 2023

In this paper, we propose two hybrid inertial CQ projection algorithms with line-search process for the split feasibility problem. Based on the hybrid CQ projection algorithm, we firstly add the inertial term into the iteration to accelerate the convergence of the algorithm, and adopt flexible rules for selecting the stepsize and the shrinking projection region, which makes an optimal stepsize available at each iteration. The shrinking projection region is the intersection of three sets, which are the set C and two hyperplanes. Furthermore, we modify the Armijo-type line-search step in the presented algorithm to get a new algorithm.The algorithms are shown to be convergent under certain mild assumptions. Besides, numerical examples are given to show that the proposed algorithms have better performance than the general CQ algorithm.
Investigating the multilevel logic in design solutions: a Function Behaviour Structure (FBS) analysis
Authors: Russo Davide , Spreafico Christian
Published: March 2023

One of the reasons why Function Behaviour Structure (FBS) model did not become a pragmatic tool in industrial practice is its inability to push the designer to develop solutions beyond the dimensional scale where components, materials, and their relationships, of an artifact are defined. This paper introduces the concept of “topology” into the FBS model to support design in a multidimensional way. Though the proposed method, instead of describing a technical system with a unique FBS model, as many models as there are levels of detail in which it can be decomposed, can be exploited. Topology is crucial for linking them together in a hierarchical organization from macro to micro, so as to use the FBS ontology both to interpret and exploit physical phenomena in the design phase. Test results about the application of the proposed FBS multilevel method on a real industrial case study with engineering students showed its ability to modify their design attitude to generate solutions from an early expansion of concepts (breadth-first strategy) to the reformulation and refinement of the same (to depth-first strategy). More in detail, through the method, the students deeper analyse of the system, individuate a greater number of parameters on which to work and provide solutions exploiting the available resources more rationally.

Graphical abstract
Validity of postmortem computed tomography for use in forensic odontology identification casework
Authors: Maley Sharon , Higgins Denice
Published: March 2023

Forensic Odontology (FO) identification compares antemortem (AM) and postmortem (PM) dental datasets and is widely accepted as a primary identifier. Traditionally, a PM dental examination is undertaken in the same manner as a dental examination conducted for a living patient. Recently, the increased forensic application of computed tomography (CT) offers an alternative source of PM data. While charting from PMCT is widely accepted as less accurate, the impact on reconciliation is unknown. This study aims to determine if reconciliation outcome differs when PM dental data is collected from PMCT, compared with conventional PM examination. PMCT data was reviewed for 21 cases previously completed using conventional PM dental examination. Operators blinded to original identification outcomes charted from CT images before comparing to AM data to form an opinion regarding identity. Opinions formed were compared with original identification outcomes. Differences in PM dental charting between the two methods and the evidentiary value of AM and PM datasets were assessed to determine driving factors of differences in identification outcome. Compared to conventional PM dental examination, PMCT examination resulted in similar or less certain identification outcomes. Discrepancies in outcome were driven by the quality of AM and PM datasets rather than inaccuracies in charting from PMCT. Based on the results of this study, both conventional and PMCT methods of PM dental examination can reach similar identification outcomes. However, operators remained more certain in establishing identity when conducting conventional PM dental examinations especially when AM data was lacking.
Search and Rescue in California: The Need for a Centralized Reporting System
Authors: Levine Alex B. , Feinn Richard S. , Foggle John L.
Published: March 2023

Introduction

There is no published information on the epidemiology of wilderness rescues in California outside of national parks. The objective of this study was to investigate the epidemiology of wilderness search and rescue (SAR) missions in California and identify risk factors for individuals requiring rescue due to accidental injury, illness, or navigation errors in the California wilderness.

Methods

A retrospective review of SAR missions in California from 2018 to 2020 was conducted. This was done from a database of information collected by the California Office of Emergency Services and the Mountain Rescue Association from SAR teams, who submitted voluntarily. The subject demographics, activity, location, and outcomes of each mission were analyzed.

Results

Eighty percent of the initial data were excluded because of incomplete or inaccurate data. Seven hundred forty-eight SAR missions involving 952 subjects were included in the study. The demographics, activities, and injuries of our population were consistent with those reported from other epidemiological SAR studies, and there were significant differences in outcomes based on the subject’s activity. For example, water activities were highly correlated with a fatal outcome.

Conclusions

The final data show interesting trends, but it is difficult to draw firm conclusions because so much of the initial data had to be excluded. A uniform system for reporting SAR missions in California may be helpful for further research, which may aid both SAR teams and the recreational public in understanding risk factors. A proposed SAR form for easy entry is included in the discussion section.
We Are All Migrants
Authors: Plamper Jan
Published: March 2023

In 2015, Germany agreed to accept a million Syrian refugees. The country had become an epicenter of global migration and one of Europe's most diverse countries. But was this influx of migration new to Germany? In this highly readable volume, Jan Plamper charts the groups and waves of post-1945 mobility to Germany. We Are All Migrants is the first narrative history of multicultural Germany told through life-stories. It explores the experiences of the 12.5 million German expellees from Eastern Europe who arrived at the end of the Second World War; the 14 million 'guest workers' from Italy and Turkey who turned West Germany into an economic powerhouse; the GDR's Vietnamese labor migrants; and the 2.3 million Germans and 230,000 Jews who came from the Soviet Union after 1987. Without minimizing racism, We Are All Migrants shows that immigration is a success story – and that Germany has been, and is, one of the most fascinating laboratories on our planet in which multiple ways of belonging, and ethnic, national, and supranational identities, are hotly debated and messily lived.
A Concise History of Belgium
Authors: Vanthemsche Guy , De Peuter Roger
Published: March 2023

The small and densely populated nation of Belgium has played an important role in the history of Europe and other continents, especially Africa. It was a pioneering force in industry, trade, and finance during the Middle Ages, through early modern times and into the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. It introduced innovative political regimes and played a leading role in the creative arts. Yet this rich past is not widely known. This introductory history offers an accessible and rigorous overview of this small but important West-European country, synthesizing Belgium's main economic, social, political, and cultural developments from pre-Roman times until today. Today, this nation-state, born in 1830, is well-known for the rivalries between its two main language communities, and as a result is often considered a fragile or even an artificial political construct. This systematic chronological analysis of both present-day Belgium and the polities that preceded it throws fresh light on this controversial issue and demonstrates Belgium's enduring importance and influence.