bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geographic division of exposure environment for concrete structure based on fuzzy clustering‐rough set information entropy
Authors: Luo Daming , Dong Hui , Niu Ditao
Published: November 2022

Deterioration of concrete structures is closely related to their service environment. Under different environmental conditions, the durability performance of structures will be different. To perform durability design based on local conditions and extend the service life of structures, it is necessary to divide their service environment based on the prevailing deterioration mechanism. In this study, considering Guangdong Province as an example, the environmental conditions affecting the durability of concrete structures are investigated and the geographical distribution of environmental conditions is analyzed, including ambient temperature, precipitation, corrosive gas, acid rain, and salt fog. The weights of the regional durability indexes are calculated by combining fuzzy clustering analysis with information entropy using rough set theory. Based on the assessment data of 1324 existing concrete structures, the durability geographic division map of Guangdong Province, including three regions (Chloride corrosion region, Acid rain‐carbonation coupling region, and Carbonation region), is constructed. This geographic division map is divided into a total of eight subregions by considering the subordinate factors in each region. The environmental characteristics of each region and its dominating deterioration mechanism for concrete structures are analyzed, and suggestions for durability design are provided.
Decreased thioredoxin reductase 3 expression promotes nickel‐induced damage to cardiac tissue via activating oxidative stress‐induced apoptosis and inflammation
Authors: Liu Yue , Ma Wenxue , Liu Qiaohan , Liu Pinnan , Qiao Senqiu , Xu Lihua , Sun Yue , Gai Xiaoxue , Zhang Ziwei
Published: November 2022

Thioredoxin reductase 3 (Txnrd3) plays a crucial role in antioxidant and anti‐cancer activities, and sperm maturation. The damage of heavy metals, including Nickel (Ni), is the most prominent harm in social development, and hampering Txnrd3 might exacerbate Ni‐induced cardiac damage. In this study, a total of 160 8‐week‐old C57BL/N male mice with 25–30 g weight of Txnrd3+/+ wild‐type and Txnrd3−/− homozygote‐type were randomly divided into eight groups. The mice in the control and Ni groups were gavaged with distilled water and a freshly prepared 10 mg/kg NiCl2 solution. Melatonin (Mel) groups were administered at a concentration of 2 mg/kg for 21 days at the mice's 0.1 ml/10 g body weight. Ni exposure up‐regulated the messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of mitochondrial apoptosis (caspase‐3, caspase‐9, cytochrome c, p53, and BAX), autophagy (LC3, ATG 1, ATG 7, and Beclin‐1), and inflammation (TNF‐α, COX 2, IL‐1β, IL‐2, IL‐6, and IL‐7)‐related markers, but down‐regulated the mRNA levels of BCL‐2, p62 and mTOR (p < .05). Ni exposure decreased the expression of BCL‐2 and p62 protein but increased the expression levels of caspase‐3, caspase‐9, cytochrome c, p53, BAX, ATG 7, Beclin‐1, TNF‐α, COX 2, IL‐1β and IL‐2 protein (p < .05). Ni increased the contents of glutathione disulfide (GSSG) and malondialdehyde (MDA) and decreased the activities of catalase (CAT) and total superoxide dismutase (T‐SOD) (p < .05). Decreased Txnrd3 expression significantly exacerbated changes compared to the Ni exposure (p < .05). Mel significantly attenuated these changes, but the effect decreased when Txnrd3 was inhibited (p < .05). In conclusion, decreased Txnrd3 expression promoted Ni‐induced mitochondrial apoptosis and inflammation via oxidative stress and aggravated heart damage in mice. Decreased Txnrd3 expression significantly reduced the protective effect of Mel to Ni exposure.
Crosstalk between endoplasmic reticulum stress and non‐coding RNAs in cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Lin Shuyun , Long Haijiao , Hou Lianjie , Zhang Ming , Ting Jiang , Lin Haiyue , Zheng Pan , Lei Weixing , Yin Kai , Zhao Guojun
Published: November 2022

Cells are exposed to various pathological stimulus within the cardiovascular system that challenge cells to adapt and survive. Several of these pathological stimulus alter the normal function of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), leading to the accumulation of unfolded and misfolded proteins, thus triggering the unfolded protein response (UPR) to cope with the stress or trigger apoptosis of damaged cells. Downstream components of the UPR regulate transcription and translation reprogramming to ensure selective gene expression in response to pathological stimulus, including the expression of non‐coding RNAs (ncRNAs). The ncRNAs play crucial roles in regulating transcription and translation, and their aberrant expression is associated with the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Notably, ncRNAs and ER stress can modulate each other and synergistically affect the development of CVD. Therefore, studying the interaction between ER stress and ncRNAs is necessary for effective prevention and treatment of CVD. In this review, we discuss the UPR signaling pathway and ncRNAs followed by the interplay regulation of ER stress and ncRNAs in CVD, which provides further insights into the understanding of the pathogenesis of CVD and therapeutic strategies.

This article is categorized under:

RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease
Swampland bounds on dark sectors
Authors: Montero Miguel , Muñoz Julian B. , Obied Georges
Published: November 2022

Abstract

We use Swampland principles to theoretically disfavor regions of the parameter space of dark matter and other darkly charged particles that may exist. The Festina Lente bound, the analogue of the Weak-Gravity conjecture in de Sitter, places constraints on the mass and charge of dark particles, which here we show cover regions in parameter space that are currently allowed by observations. As a consequence, a broad set of new ultra-light particles are in the Swampland, independently of their cosmic abundance, showing the complementarity of Quantum Gravity limits with laboratory and astrophysical studies. In parallel, a Swampland bound on the UV cutoff associated to the axion giving a Stückelberg photon its longitudinal mode translates to a new constraint on the kinetic mixings and masses of dark photons. This covers part of the parameter space targeted by upcoming dark-photon direct-detection experiments. Moreover, it puts astrophysically interesting models in the Swampland, including freeze-in dark matter through an ultra-light dark photon, as well as radio models invoked to explain the 21-cm EDGES anomaly.
Chiral gauge dynamics: candidates for non-supersymmetric dualities
Authors: Karasik Avner , Önder Kaan , Tong David
Published: November 2022

Abstract

We study the dynamics of chiral SU(N) gauge theories. These contain Weyl fermions in the symmetric or anti-symmetric representation of the gauge group, together with further fermions in the fundamental and anti-fundamental. We revisit an old proposal of Bars and Yankielowicz who match the ‘t Hooft anomalies of this theory to free fermions. We show that there are novel and, in some cases, quite powerful constraints on the dynamics in the large N limit.

In addition, we study these SU(N) theories with an extra Weyl fermion transforming in the adjoint representation. Here we show that all 21 ‘t Hooft anomalies for global symmetries are matched with those of a Spin(8) gauge theory. This suggests a non-supersymmetric extension of the duality of Pouliot and Strassler. Finally, we also discuss some non-supersymmetric dualities with vector-like matter content for SO(N) and Sp(N) gauge theories and the constraints imposed by Weingarten inequalities.
Fatale neurologische Nebenwirkung einer Anti-CD20-Antikörper-Therapie
Authors: Schmidt Kathie , Skusa Romy , Großmann Annette
Published: November 2022

Eine 59-jährige Patientin entwickelte neurologische Defizite nach vorheriger rituximabhaltiger Lymphomtherapie. Die Konstellation aus Marklagerläsionen ohne Schrankenstörung in Groß- und Kleinhirn und DNA-Nachweis des John Cunningham Virus (JCV) aus Liquor führte zur Diagnose einer progressiven multifokalen Enzephalopathie (PML). Die PML ist eine seltene, aber tödliche Infektion des zentralen Nervensystems hervorgerufen durch eine Reaktivierung des JC-Virus, die nicht nur bei HIV-Infektionen, sondern auch iatrogen nach Einsatz monoklonaler Antikörper auftreten kann.
HIV-Postexpositionsprophylaxe in der Notaufnahme: Vorgehen, Tipps & Tricks
Authors: Dehina Nora , Jensen Björn-Erik Ole , Bernhard Michael , Böhm Lennert
Published: November 2022

In zentralen Notaufnahmen stellen sich regelmäßig Patienten nach vermutetem oder gesichertem Kontakt mit dem humanen Immundefizienzvirus (HIV) vor, um dort bezüglich der Indikation einer Postexpositionsprophylaxe (PEP) beraten zu werden. Diese Vorstellungen können nach Risikokontakten im Rahmen einer Tätigkeit im Gesundheitswesen oder aber nach Kontakten im privaten Umfeld erfolgen. Bei der PEP handelt es sich um eine Dreifachkombination antiretroviraler Substanzen, die über 28–30 Tage eingenommen werden müssen. Bei frühzeitiger (im Idealfall innerhalb von 2 h, jedoch nicht später als 72 h) und indikationsgerechter Einnahme kann eine Infektion mit HIV mit hoher Wahrscheinlichkeit verhindert werden. Da derartige Vorstellungen rund um die Uhr erfolgen können, erfordern sie neben einer Grundexpertise des Notaufnahmepersonals bezüglich der PEP-Indikation, ihrer Nebenwirkungen und ihrer Durchführung standardisierte Abläufe in der Notaufnahme, um den Beginn nicht zu verzögern. Am nächsten Werktag sollte eine Vorstellung in einer infektiologischen Ambulanz bzw. einer HIV-Schwerpunktpraxis erfolgen, um die Indikation fachärztlich zu prüfen und sie ggf. im Sinne von Einzelfallentscheidungen an komplexe Fälle anzupassen. Dieser Übersichtsartikel soll die Kernaussagen der 2022 überarbeiteten deutsch-österreichischen Leitlinie zur medikamentösen Postexpositionsprophylaxe nach HIV-Exposition zusammenfassen und dem Personal in Notaufnahmen Sicherheit beim Beginn der PEP geben.
KnAC: an approach for enhancing cluster analysis with background knowledge and explanations
Authors: Bobek Szymon , Kuk Michał , Brzegowski Jakub , Brzychczy Edyta , Nalepa Grzegorz J.
Published: November 2022

Pattern discovery in multidimensional data sets has been the subject of research for decades. There exists a wide spectrum of clustering algorithms that can be used for this purpose. However, their practical applications share a common post-clustering phase, which concerns expert-based interpretation and analysis of the obtained results. We argue that this can be the bottleneck in the process, especially in cases where domain knowledge exists prior to clustering. Such a situation requires not only a proper analysis of automatically discovered clusters but also conformance checking with existing knowledge. In this work, we present Knowledge Augmented Clustering (KnAC). Its main goal is to confront expert-based labelling with automated clustering for the sake of updating and refining the former. Our solution is not restricted to any existing clustering algorithm. Instead, KnAC can serve as an augmentation of an arbitrary clustering algorithm, making the approach robust and a model-agnostic improvement of any state-of-the-art clustering method. We demonstrate the feasibility of our method on artificially, reproducible examples and in a real life use case scenario. In both cases, we achieved better results than classic clustering algorithms without augmentation.
A two-level distributed algorithm for nonconvex constrained optimization
Authors: Sun Kaizhao , Sun X. Andy
Published: November 2022

This paper aims to develop distributed algorithms for nonconvex optimization problems with complicated constraints associated with a network. The network can be a physical one, such as an electric power network, where the constraints are nonlinear power flow equations, or an abstract one that represents constraint couplings between decision variables of different agents. Despite the recent development of distributed algorithms for nonconvex programs, highly complicated constraints still pose a significant challenge in theory and practice. We first identify some difficulties with the existing algorithms based on the alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMM) for dealing with such problems. We then propose a reformulation that enables us to design a two-level algorithm, which embeds a specially structured three-block ADMM at the inner level in an augmented Lagrangian method framework. Furthermore, we prove the global and local convergence as well as iteration complexity of this new scheme for general nonconvex constrained programs, and show that our analysis can be extended to handle more complicated multi-block inner-level problems. Finally, we demonstrate with computation that the new scheme provides convergent and parallelizable algorithms for various nonconvex applications, and is able to complement the performance of the state-of-the-art distributed algorithms in practice by achieving either faster convergence in optimality gap or in feasibility or both.
The effect of scaffolding programming games and attitudes towards programming on the development of Computational Thinking
Authors: Tikva Christina , Tambouris Efthimios
Published: November 2022

Teaching and learning Computational Thinking (CT) is at the forefront of educational interest. In the process of teaching and learning CT, learning strategies and tools play an important role. Efforts have been made to apply several learning strategies for teaching Computational Thinking. Among them, game-based learning and scaffolding are widely adopted. However, more research is needed on how the absence and presence of scaffolding strategies in programming games could affect students' cognitive CT learning gains. This study aims to investigate the effect of scaffolding programming games on the development of middle school students’ CT. In addition, herein we aim to explore the effect of students’ programming attitudes in their CT development. To this end, students were introduced to CT under two distinct experimental conditions: a scaffolding version of a programming game and a non-scaffolding version of the same game. Results report statistically significant differences between the pre- and post-intervention CT scores for all students and statistically significant improvement in learning outcomes in favor of the scaffolding group. In addition, the study hypothesized that attitudes towards programming would have an impact on students’ CT. Although this hypothesis has not been confirmed, the results suggest that students who have a less positive attitude towards programming could particularly benefit from scaffolding aspects in programming games.
Second-order asymptotic expansion and thermodynamic interpretation of a fast–slow Hamiltonian system
Authors: Klar Matthias , Matthies Karsten , Zimmer Johannes
Published: November 2022

This article includes a short survey of selected averaging and dimension reduction techniques for deterministic fast–slow systems. This survey includes, among others, classical techniques, such as the WKB approximation or the averaging method, as well as modern techniques, such as the GENERIC formalism. The main part of this article combines ideas of some of these techniques and addresses the problem of deriving a reduced system for the slow degrees of freedom (DOF) of a fast–slow Hamiltonian system. In the first part, we derive an asymptotic expansion of the averaged evolution of the fast–slow system up to second order, using weak convergence techniques and two-scale convergence. In the second part, we determine quantities which can be interpreted as temperature and entropy of the system and expand these quantities up to second order, using results from the first part. The results give new insights into the thermodynamic interpretation of the fast–slow system at different scales.
Effects of large strain reverse loading on the strain rate dependence and dynamic strain localization of ductile metallic rods
Authors: Zhang Longhui , Townsend David
Published: November 2022

The dynamic necking of ductile metallic rods with large strain reverse loading history has received little attention in the published literature. A novel bespoke real time strain control setup is constructed to apply the reverse loading directly to the specimen gauge section up to a maximum strain level of ± 0.16. 304L stainless steel is used as a model material in this study. The subsequent tensile tests of the reverse loaded specimens are performed from quasi-static to high strain rates of 1000/s, using a Zwick 050 Machine, hydraulic Instron 8854, and a bespoke split Hopkinson tension bar with high speed photography equipment. The initial flow stress of the 304L rods shows similar strain rate dependence, regardless of the reverse loading history. The local strain rate during strain localization increases dramatically and eventually reaches one order of magnitude higher than the nominal strain rate. A higher strain reverse loading significantly influences the development of necking instabilities, with smaller strain to necking inception, higher local stress in the necking zone, and higher local strain rate up to failure. Instead of evaluating the impact energy absorption up to necking, an analysis of the local stress–strain relationship indicates that the reverse loaded 304L shows good impact energy absorption up to failure. This agrees with the ductile fracture surfaces of the 304L materials with reverse loading.
The “Nigerian mafia” feedback loop: European police, global media and Nigerian civil society
Authors: Cohen Corentin
Published: November 2022

This article looks at the discourses regarding Nigerian confraternities’ expansion to Europe. It analyses how networks of individuals working together for solidarity, economic or political objectives became categorized as organised crime or as a mafia. I use original data and police investigations, interviews with members and victims, judges, police officers, and journalists to show how the work of French and Italian institutions led to the emergence and transformation of discourses regarding the “Nigerian mafia” which, in the context of the 2015 migration crisis, came to designate confraternities. The circulation of these categories and frames cannot only be accounted for by the work of state institutions, but needs to be analysed through the sociology of information production and practices, which explains the effects of circular reporting, imposition of frames and narratives coming directly from investigations on criminal issues instead of other approaches to Nigerian migration.
Development of a Web-Based Training Platform for School Clinicians in Evidence-Based Practices for ADHD
Authors: Pfiffner Linda J. , Dvorsky Melissa R. , Friedman Lauren M. , Haack Lauren M. , Chung Sara , Charalel Julia M. , Hawkey Elizabeth , Spiess Madeline
Published: November 2022

Lack of training for school clinicians in evidence-based practices (EBPs) contributes to underutilization of such services for youth with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Advances in web-based technology and videoconferencing have allowed for expanded access to and optimization of training. We describe the development and outcomes of a novel web-based platform for training school clinicians to gain skills in EBPs for school-age youth with ADHD. The training platform is adapted from an empirically supported, in-person training for a school–home behavioral intervention (Collaborative Life Skills program) and includes skill modules for working with teachers, parents, and students. Training methods include web-accessed manuals/handouts, skill example video clips, automated progress monitoring tools, and consultation/in-session coaching via videoconferencing. We gathered stakeholder qualitative and quantitative feedback during discovery and design phases of the iterative development. We then evaluated the usability, acceptability, fidelity and clinician and student outcomes of the remote training program. Focus group themes and qualitative feedback identified clinician preferences for remote training features (e.g., interactive, brief, role-plays/coaching methods), video tools (recorded samples of skills and therapy sessions), and progress monitoring tools (e.g., clear, easy to use). Clinician usability ratings of the platform were high with most components rated as moderately to very useful/easy to use. Clinician ratings of usability, fidelity implementing the treatment, and their EBP knowledge and confidence following training were favorable. Student’s outcomes were similar to those achieved in prior studies of clinician in-person training. Results support the promise of remote, web-based clinician training for the dissemination of evidence-based practices.
Seasonality and nutrition-sensitive farming in rural Northern Ghana
Authors: de Jager Ilse , van de Ven Gerrie W. J. , Giller Ken E. , Brouwer Inge D.
Published: November 2022

In rural sub-Saharan Africa, where malnutrition in all its forms is rife, the greatest gap between the availability of foods and the foods needed for a nutritious diet are faced during the ‘hunger season’. We investigated what rural households in Northern Ghana would need to grow to ensure year-round availability of a nutrient adequate diet or the income required to fulfil their dietary needs. We applied linear programming to model different scenarios and interventions. Our results provide three major insights. First, considering seasonality is crucial in nutrition-sensitive farming. Ensuring a nutritious diet year-round requires enhanced availability of vegetables and fruits throughout the year. Second, although staple crops do not provide the full range of essential nutrients, increasing their yields allows for a reduction of field size, freeing up space for the production of other foods belonging to a nutritious diet, such as vegetables. Third, small farms are unable to produce sufficient food to cover their needs. They depend on income both from agriculture and other sources, and the availability of types of foods on markets to meet their dietary needs. Our study shows the value of modelling the range of dietary effects from agricultural interventions in a specific context, using a local feasible nutritious diet as a starting point and taking seasonality into account.
Health Inequities in the USA: a Role for Dietary Acid Load? Results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys
Authors: Storz Maximilian Andreas
Published: November 2022

Background

Cardiovascular disease and obesity affect racial and ethnic minorities disproportionally. Public health research suggests that suboptimal diet is an important contributor to health disparities. Limited evidence points at an increased dietary acid load (DAL) in certain ethnic groups. DAL is determined by the balance of acidifying foods and alkaline foods, and elevated DAL scores have been associated with numerous chronic lifestyle-related conditions. The present analysis investigated DAL scores among ethnic groups in the USA.

Methods

Using cross-sectional data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination surveys (NHANES, 2007–2016), we contrasted several markers of DAL (potential renal acid load (PRAL) and net endogenous acid production (NEAP)) between Non-Hispanic Whites, Non-Hispanic Blacks, Mexican Americans, Other Hispanics, and Other Race. The comparison included crude scores and adjusted scores following multivariate linear regression.

Results

The sample for this analysis comprised 19,565 participants, which may be extrapolated to represent 156,116,471 United States Americans. When compared to Non-Hispanic Whites, Non-Hispanic Blacks and Mexican Americans had significantly higher crude DAL scores. PRALR was highest in Mexican Americans (20.42 (0.61) mEq/day), followed by Non-Hispanic Blacks (17.47 (0.42) mEq/day). Crude NEAPF was highest in Non-Hispanic Blacks (64.66 (0.43) mEq/day), and almost 9 mEq/day higher compared to Non-Hispanic Whites (55.78 (0.39) mEq/day). Multivariate linear regression adjusting for confounders revealed comparable interracial DAL differences.

Conclusions

We found significant DAL differences across the investigated ethnic groups. Whether these differences potentially play a role in population health inequity in the USA will be subject to additional research.

Graphical Abstract
GAN-based deep learning framework of network reconstruction
Authors: Xu Xiang , Zhu Xianqiang , Zhu Cheng
Published: November 2022

Inferring the topology of a network from network dynamics is a significant problem with both theoretical research significance and practical value. This paper considers how to reconstruct the network topology according to the continuous-time data on the network. Inspired by the generative adversarial network(GAN), we design a deep learning framework based on network continuous-time data. The framework predicts the edge connection probability between network nodes by learning the correlation between network node state vectors. To verify the accuracy and adaptability of our method, we conducted extensive experiments on scale-free networks and small-world networks at different network scales using three different dynamics: heat diffusion dynamics, mutualistic interaction dynamics, and gene regulation dynamics. Experimental results show that our method significantly outperforms the other five traditional correlation indices, which demonstrates that our method can reconstruct the topology of different scale networks well under different network dynamics.
The Area Enclosed by a Function Is Not Always the Definite Integral: Relearning Through Collaborative Transitioning Within a Learning-Support Module
Authors: Kontorovich Igor’ , Locke Kim
Published: November 2022

Learning-support system is an umbrella term that we use for digital resources that assign students with mathematical questions and give automatic feedback on the inserted answers. Transitioning between questions and feedback is characteristic to students’ work with such systems. We apply the commognitive framework to explore the role of within-system transitions in students’ mathematics learning, with a special interest in what we term as “reroutinization”—a process of repeated development of conventional routines to be implemented in already familiar mathematical tasks. The study revolves around a digital module in integral calculus, which was designed to support undergraduates with finding areas enclosed by functions. The data comes from dyads and triads of first-year university students, who collaboratively interacted with the module. The analyses cast light on how transitioning within the module aided students to review familiar routines, amend them, confirm, and solidify the amendments. The transition process was not always linear and contained instances of students cycling back and forth between the assigned questions and feedback messages. We conclude with the discussion on the module’s design that afforded reroutinization and suggest paths for further research.
Application of homotopy perturbation method to the radial thrust problem
Authors: Niccolai Lorenzo , Quarta Alessandro A. , Mengali Giovanni
Published: November 2022

The dynamics of a spacecraft propelled by a continuous radial thrust resembles that of a nonlinear oscillator. This is analyzed in this work with a novel method that combines the definition of a suitable homotopy with a classical perturbation approach, in which the low thrust is assumed to be a perturbation of the nominal Keplerian motion. The homotopy perturbation method provides the analytical (approximate) solution of the dynamical equations in polar form to estimate the corresponding spacecraft propelled trajectory with a short computational time. The accuracy of the analytical results was tested in an orbital-targeting mission scenario.
Einfluss häuslichen, differenziellen Lernens auf die Mundhygiene bei Kindern
Authors: Leghrouz Loay , Khole Manasi R. , Splieth Christian H. , Schmoeckel Julian
Published: November 2022

Ziel: Das richtige Zähneputzen ist für Kinder ein komplizierter Prozess. Ziel dieser Studie war es daher, die Wirkung des häuslichen, differenziellen Lernens zur Verbesserung des Zähneputzens zu untersuchen.

Methoden: In dieser prospektiven, kontrollierten, einfach verblindeten, randomisierten klinischen Studie wurden 44 Kinder (Alter: 5,6 ± 1,6 Jahre; 24 weiblich, Baseline QHI [Quigley-Hein-Index] > 3, PBI [Papillenblutungsindex] > 0,3, mittlerer dmft = 9 bzw. DMFT = 1,6) zufällig einer Test- und einer Kontrollgruppe (jede Gruppe n = 22) zugeteilt, indem das Kind selbst einen unbeschrifteten Umschlag aus einer Kiste zog. Alle Kinder erhielten die Anweisungen und Informationen zur Mundhygiene in diesen verschlossenen Umschlägen und wurden aufgefordert, diese Anweisungen zu Hause zu befolgen. Lediglich die Kinder der Testgruppe erhielten Instruktionen mit Übungen nach der Methodik des differenziellen Lernens, während die Kinder der Kontrollgruppe Instruktionen zum Putzen nach der KAI-Putztechnik erhielten. Bei Studienbeginn und Follow-ups nach 4 und 12 Wochen wurden Plaque- und Gingivaindizes (QHI, PBI) in beiden Gruppen durch 2 kalibrierte und verblindete Untersucher (L.L. und M.K.) erhoben.

Ergebnisse: Zu Studienbeginn gab es keine signifikanten Unterschiede zwischen der Test- und der Kontrollgruppe in Bezug auf Plaque- und Gingivaindizes (QHI: 4,2 ± 0,5 und 4,2 ± 0,5; p = 0,9; PBI: 0,7 ± 0,4 und 0,6 ± 0,2; p = 0,8). Bei den Follow-ups nach 4 und 12 Wochen zeigten beide Gruppen bessere Mundgesundheitsindizes, die Testgruppe aber insgesamt deutlicher. Der Unterschied bei den Plaqueindizes verfehlte knapp die statistische Signifikanz (4-Wochen-Recall; QHI/Test: 2,1 ± 0,9; Kontrolle: 2,6 ± 0,9; p = 0,1). Dagegen zeigte sich im 4-Wochen-Recall bereits ein statistisch signifikanter Unterschied bezüglich der Gingivaindizes (PBI/Test: 0,1 ± 0,2 vs. Kontrolle: 0,4 ± 0,2; p <0,001). Beim 12-Wochen-Recall zeigte die Testgruppe statistisch signifikante und klinisch relevante bessere Mundgesundheitsindizes als die Kontrollgruppe (12-Wochen-Recall, QHI/Test: 1,9 ± 0,8 vs. Kontrolle: 3,3 ± 0,9; p <0,001; PBI/Test: 0,1 ± 0,1 vs. Kontrolle: 0,5 ± 0,2; p <0,001).

Schlussfolgerungen: Schlussfolgernd kann festgestellt werden, dass das differenzielle Lernen auch bei Kindern mit hohem Kariesrisiko und initial schlechter Mundhygiene zu Mundhygieneverbesserungen führt, die der konventionellen Lernmethode durch Wiederholung mittelfristig überlegen ist.
When does public diplomacy work? Evidence from China's “wolf warrior” diplomats
Authors: Mattingly Daniel C. , Sundquist James
Published: November 2022

How does public diplomacy shape global public opinion? In this note, we theorize that positive public diplomacy that emphasizes aid and friendship works, while negative messages that criticize international rivals are ineffective. We conduct an experiment, to our knowledge the first of its kind, that randomly exposes Indian citizens to real Twitter messages from Chinese diplomats. We find that positive messages emphasizing aid and friendship improve perceptions of China, even in times of escalating violent conflict. However, messages from so-called “Wolf Warrior” diplomats that harshly criticize the United States are ineffective and can backfire in times of crisis. We argue public diplomacy can be a useful tool for global powers, but that domestic political pressures have pushed some diplomats, like China's Wolf Warriors, toward nationalist messages that do not appeal to foreign audiences.
Conjugacy conditions for supersoluble complements of an abelian base and a fixed point result for non-coprime actions
Authors: Burkhart Michael C.
Published: November 2022

We demonstrate that two supersoluble complements of an abelian base in a finite split extension are conjugate if and only if, for each prime $p$, a Sylow $p$-subgroup of one complement is conjugate to a Sylow $p$-subgroup of the other. As a corollary, we find that any two supersoluble complements of an abelian subgroup $N$ in a finite split extension $G$ are conjugate if and only if, for each prime $p$, there exists a Sylow $p$-subgroup $S$ of $G$ such that any two complements of $S\cap N$ in $S$ are conjugate in $G$. In particular, restricting to supersoluble groups allows us to ease D. G. Higman's stipulation that the complements of $S\cap N$ in $S$ be conjugate within $S$. We then consider group actions and obtain a fixed point result for non-coprime actions analogous to Glauberman's lemma.
Fake Products, Real Effects: Evidence from Special 301 Actions
Authors: Canayaz Mehmet I. , Gurun Umit G.
Published: November 2022

We study how the U.S. government’s anti-counterfeiting enforcement actions through Special 301 Reports influence U.S. businesses. We show that anti-counterfeiting enforcement in foreign countries improves U.S. firms’ sales, profitability, and valuations. Firms significantly reduce capital and research and development investments when their brands and products are protected from counterfeiting activities. Anti-counterfeiting enforcement measures also improve brand asset value, brand profitability, brand inventiveness, market penetration, and customer loyalty.
Spillover Effects of the Opioid Epidemic on Consumer Finance
Authors: Jansen Mark
Published: November 2022

I examine the impact of the opioid epidemic on subprime auto lending. Using a difference-in-differences framework, I find that county-level increases in opioid abuse cause an increase in loan defaults. Moreover, I find that traditional credit scoring attributes (e.g., FICO score) fail to predict loan performance deterioration associated with opioid addiction. The weak predictive performance of traditional credit measures and the resulting higher default rates generate a negative externality for borrowers in opioid-afflicted areas, as evidenced by 5.7% higher loan costs for subprime borrowers.
Evidence for functional improvement in reward anticipation in recent onset schizophrenia after one year of coordinated specialty care
Authors: Smucny Jason , Lesh Tyler A. , Niendam Tara A. , Ragland J. Daniel , Tully Laura M. , Carter Cameron S.
Published: November 2022

Background

Motivational impairment associated with deficits in processing the anticipation of future reward is hypothesized to be a cardinal feature of schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SZ). Evidence from short-term follow-up (6-week post-treatment) studies suggests that these deficits may improve or be reversed with treatment, although longer-term outcomes are unknown. Here we examined the one-year trajectory of functional activation in brain circuitry associated with reward anticipation in people with recent onset SZ who participated in coordinated specialty care (CSC) treatment, hypothesizing normalization of brain response mirroring previous short-term findings in first-episode individuals.

Method

Blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) response in the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, anterior insula, and ventral striatum (VS) associated with reward anticipation during the Incentivized Control Engagement Task (ICE-T) was analyzed in a baseline sample of 49 healthy controls (HCs) and 52 demographically matched people with SZ, with follow-up data available for 35 HCs and 17 people with SZ.

Results

In agreement with our hypothesis, significant time × diagnosis interactions were observed across all regions, in which reward anticipation-associated BOLD response increased in SZ to above baseline HC levels at follow-up. Increased VS activation was associated with decreased reality distortion symptoms over the follow-up period. Baseline reward anticipation-associated BOLD response in the right anterior insula was associated with improvement in reality distortion symptoms.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that functional deficits in reward anticipation may be reversed after one year of CSC in recent onset participants with SZ, and that this improvement is associated with reduced positive symptoms in the illness.
Mental health and the law: What else is needed for particularly vulnerable contexts facing armed conflict and development obstacles?
Authors: Miller Sarah
Published: November 2022

Mental disorders have high prevalence for disability and almost 80% of the global burden occurs in low- and middle-income countries. The impacts of mental health conditions can affect many sectors of society and threaten peace, human rights and development. However, international law jurisprudence has not sufficiently developed to guide mental health governance. This paper reviews the international legal protections for people who experience mental health conditions, including mental disorders and psychosocial disabilities. It focuses on State application of legal instruments in particularly vulnerable contexts, namely, least developed countries and situations of armed conflict. It argues that relying on existing treaties and soft-law instruments from the health and human rights angles is inadequate, and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities is not the right fit. New hard- and soft-law instruments are urgently needed to meet positive obligations and safeguard rights in these vulnerable contexts. Some suggestions for the contents of future instruments are made.
How Dropping Subjects Who Failed Manipulation Checks Can Bias Your Results: An Illustrative Case
Authors: Varaine Simon
Published: November 2022

Manipulations checks are postexperimental measures widely used to verify that subjects understood the treatment. Some researchers drop subjects who failed manipulation checks in order to limit the analyses to attentive subjects. This short report offers a novel illustration on how this practice may bias experimental results: in the present case, through confirming a hypothesis that is likely false. In a survey experiment, subjects were primed with a fictional news story depicting an economic decline versus prosperity. Subjects were then asked whether the news story depicted an economic decline or prosperity. Results indicate that responses to this manipulation check captured subjects’ preexisting beliefs about the economic situation. As a consequence, dropping subjects who failed the manipulation check mixes the effects of preexisting and induced beliefs, increasing the risk of false positive findings. Researchers should avoid dropping subjects based on posttreatment measures and rely on pretreatment measures of attentiveness.
Can Addressing Integrity Concerns about Mail Balloting Increase Turnout? Results from a Large-Scale Field Experiment in the 2020 Presidential Election
Authors: Biggers Daniel R. , Elder Elizabeth Mitchell , Hill Seth J. , Kousser Thad , Lenz Gabriel S. , Lockhart Mackenzie
Published: November 2022

The 2020 presidential election brought expanded vote-by-mail opportunities, a rise in attacks on this process’s integrity, and the implementation of novel programs such as California’s Where’s My Ballot? system to ensure confidence in mail balloting. Can heightening awareness of this ballot-tracking system and other election protections alleviate fraud concerns and raise turnout? We assess whether messages reinforcing election integrity increased participation in the 2020 election through a large-scale voter mobilization field experiment. California registrants were mailed a letter that described either existing safeguards to prevent vote-by-mail fraud or the ability to track one’s ballot and ensure that it was counted. Analysis of state voter records reveals that neither message increased turnout over a simple election reminder or even no contact, even among subgroups where larger effects might be expected. In the context of a high-profile, high-turnout presidential election, assurances about ballot and electoral integrity did not increase turnout.
MagInfoNet: Magnitude Estimation Using Seismic Information Augmentation and Graph Transformer
Authors: Chen Ziwei , Wang Zhiguo , Wu Shaojiang , Wang Yibo , Gao Jinghuai
Published: November 2022

In this study, we propose a reliable data‐driven tool, MagInfoNet, to enhance the accuracy of magnitude estimation. Its architecture was assembled using the Pre‐Inform and Mag‐Pred modules to replace and update the key functions of traditional seismic analysis workflows. The Pre‐Inform module with the residual network was used for data pretreatment by combining the intrinsic characteristics of seismic signals with the potential features of the arrival and travel times. Meanwhile, using a graph transformer with an improved cyclic graph, the Mag‐Pred module was used to calculate magnitudes by the preprocessed information and the autocorrelation of seismic time series. Training and testing data were randomly selected from the Stanford Earthquake Data Set. The results show that the estimation accuracy, generalization, and robustness of the proposed MagInfoNet are better than those of three machine learning models. Besides, MagInfoNet can perform better for those samples with larger epicentral distances, enhancing the monitoring capacity of existing system for earthquake events in remote areas. Finally, we discuss the interpretability of the explainable MagInfoNet to verify the role of advanced neural network modules.
Stream‐Lake Connectivity Is an Important Control of Fluvial CO2 Concentrations and Emissions in Catchments
Authors: Sand‐Jensen Kaj , Riis Tenna , Kjær Johan Emil , Martinsen Kenneth Thorø
Published: November 2022

Streams in cultivated lowlands are commonly supersaturated with CO2 and are a source of CO2 to the atmosphere. Great uncertainties exist regarding the spatiotemporal variations of CO2 concentrations and emission rates in stream‐lake fluvial networks and small streams with variable plant cover. We studied this variability and the underlying mechanisms in 40 small, high‐alkalinity Danish streams, including 5 catchments with lakes. Generally CO2 concentrations were, on average, 9.2 times those of the atmosphere, declining downstream with rising water temperature, chlorophyll a concentration, and decreasing groundwater inputs. We furthermore observed that the concentrations of CO2 in stream waters declined at the outlet of lakes to values close to or below air saturation due to phytoplankton uptake and atmospheric loss during the long water retention time in the lakes. Downstream, CO2 concentrations were observed to decrease in summer and in the afternoons, which indicate plant uptake of CO2. Sites with deeper water and few plants and low gas transfer velocity retained high CO2 concentrations. Among 38 fluvial networks where emission could be calculated, it varied 10‐fold (0.41–4.06 g C m−2 d−1), but the overall mean was constrained to a narrow confidence interval (1.75–2.50 g C m−2 d−1). Our results highlight that a complex of physical, chemical and biological processes cause highly variable carbon dynamics and CO2 emissions in fluvial networks at local and catchment scales making upscaling challenging.
Localized Origin at the Core‐Mantle Boundary of the 1969 Geomagnetic Impulse
Authors: Blangsbøll R. M. , Finlay C. C. , Kloss C.
Published: November 2022

The 1969 geomagnetic impulse provided the first compelling evidence for rapid changes in Earth's core‐generated magnetic field, taking place on timescales of a few years or less. We show here it originated at the core‐mantle boundary (CMB) largely as a localized change in the field acceleration under north and central America. We find the impulse events in 1969 and 2017 involved similar amplitudes of field acceleration change with similar localized dipole structures. However in 1969 the acceleration change pattern was north‐south rather than east‐west oriented, and it propagated poleward rather than westward. Moreover, there was a distinctive local surge in the CMB secular variation leading up to the 1969 event. We propose the 1969 impulse resulted from hydromagnetic waves arriving at the CMB that were triggered by a convective burst near to the core surface; this event involved localized flux expulsion and inward propagating waves.
Hindered Trench Migration Due To Slab Steepening Controls the Formation of the Central Andes
Authors: Pons Michaël , Sobolev Stephan V. , Liu Sibiao , Neuharth Derek
Published: November 2022

The formation of the Central Andes dates back to ∼50 Ma, but its most pronounced episode, including the growth of the Altiplano‐Puna Plateau and pulsatile tectonic shortening phases, occurred within the last 25 Ma. The reason for this evolution remains unexplained. Using geodynamic numerical modeling we infer that the primary cause of the pulses of tectonic shortening and growth of the Central Andes is the changing geometry of the subducted Nazca plate, and particularly the steepening of the mid‐mantle slab segment which results in a slowing down of the trench retreat and subsequent increase in shortening of the advancing South America plate. This steepening first happens after the end of the flat slab episode at ∼25 Ma, and later during the buckling and stagnation of the slab in the mantle transition zone. Processes that mechanically weaken the lithosphere of the South America plate, as suggested in previous studies, enhance the intensity of the shortening events. These processes include delamination of the mantle lithosphere and weakening of foreland sediments. Our new modeling results are consistent with the timing and amplitude of the deformation from geological data in the Central Andes at the Altiplano latitude.
The Relationship Between Inverted Normal Faults and Pure Thrusting During the Tectonic Inversion of the Domeyko Cordillera, Northern Chile: Structural and Seismic Interpretation and Analog Modeling Experiments
Authors: López Cristopher , Del Ventisette Chiara , Bonini Marco , Montanari Domenico , Maestrelli Daniele , Martínez Fernando , González Rodrigo , Riquelme Rodrigo , Montenegro Daniela , Muñoz Belén , Guzmán‐Marusic Gabriela
Published: November 2022

The orogenic growth of the Domeyko Cordillera was induced by a positive tectonic inversion. In this work, we have validated this interpretation from new field data, which were combined with 2‐D reflection seismic profile interpretations obtained along the Central Andes forearc of northern Chile. To compare with this information, we performed a new series of Analog Models dealing with positive tectonic inversion. On the basis of this, we propose an integrated kinematic model that describes the relationships between extensional structures, inversion structures, and pure thrust faulting. The proposed model is developed with an initial syn‐rift phase related to the filling of half‐graben basins, followed by a positive tectonic inversion phase. Our models show two main structural styles: partially inverted normal faults and newly formed pure thrust faulting. The partial inversion of previous normal faults represents the initial stage of exhumation of the syn‐rift deposits. The pure thrusting consists of east‐verging faults, which decapitate early or partially inverted normal faults. The first type of structures are compared with west‐verging inverted, or partially inverted, normal faults, inversion anticlines, and buttressing structures, exposed on the western flank of the Domeyko Cordillera. The second type of structures are compared with the east‐verging thrust faults exposed on the eastern flank of the Domeyko Cordillera. Finally, we consider that the architecture of the Domeyko Fault System is associated with inversion structures and pure thrust faulting; being these faults first‐order structures that led to the orogenic growth of the Domeyko Cordillera from the Upper Cretaceous.