bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
General Conclusions to Part II
Authors: Richardson John T. E.
Published: February 2022

This chapter concludes Part II by summarising and discussing the key findings. Are there any differences in the legibility of serif and sans serif typefaces when they are used to generate material on computer monitors or other screens? Are there any differences in readers’ preferences and connotations between serif and sans serif typefaces when they are used to generate material on computer monitors or other screens? Where does this leave previously stated assumptions about the legibility of serif and sans serif typefaces on computer screens?
Concepts and Research Methods
Authors: Richardson John T. E.
Published: February 2022

This chapter distinguishes between typefaces and fonts and between legibilityand readability. A variety of objective methods have been developed for measuring the legibility of printed material, and many have been taken over into research on reading from screens. Researchers have also collected subjective reports from participants regarding the legibility and other properties of presented material. This chapter also describes how typographers define the size of typefaces and which aspects are likely to affect the legibility of material.
Lattice fermions as spectral graphs
Authors: Yumoto Jun , Misumi Tatsuhiro
Published: February 2022

Abstract

We study lattice fermions from the viewpoint of spectral graph theory (SGT). We find that a fermion defined on a certain lattice is identified as a spectral graph. SGT helps us investigate the number of zero eigenvalues of lattice Dirac operators even on the non-torus and non-regular lattice, leading to understanding of the number of fermion species (doublers) on lattices with arbitrary topologies. The procedure of application of SGT to lattice fermions is summarized as follows: (1) One investigates a spectral graph corresponding to a lattice fermion. (2) One obtains a matrix corresponding to the graph. (3) One finds zero eigenvalues of the matrix by use of the discrete Fourier transformation (DFT). (4) By taking an infinite-volume and continuum limits, one finds the number of species. We apply this procedure to the known lattice fermion formulations including Naive fermions, Wilson fermions and Domain-wall fermions, and reproduce the known fact on the number of species. We also apply it to the lattice fermion on the discretized four­dimensional hyperball and discuss the number of fermion species on the bulk. In the end of the paper, we discuss the application of the analysis to lattice fermions on generic lattices with arbitrary topologies, which could lead to constructing a new theorem regarding the number of species.
Stress topology analysis for porous infill optimization
Authors: Wang Junpeng , Wu Jun , Westermann Rüdiger
Published: February 2022

The optimization of porous infill structures via local volume constraints has become a popular approach in topology optimization. In some design settings, however, the iterative optimization process converges only slowly, or not at all even after several hundreds or thousands of iterations. This leads to regions in which a distinct binary design is difficult to achieve. Interpreting intermediate density values by applying a threshold results in large solid or void regions, leading to sub-optimal structures. We find that this convergence issue relates to the topology of the stress tensor field that is simulated when applying the same external forces on the solid design domain. In particular, low convergence is observed in regions around so-called trisector degenerate points. Based on this observation, we propose an automatic initialization process that prescribes the topological skeleton of the stress field into the density field as solid simulation elements. These elements guide the material deposition around the degenerate points, but can also be remodelled or removed during the optimization. We demonstrate significantly improved convergence rates in a number of use cases with complex stress topologies. The improved convergence is demonstrated for infill optimization under homogeneous as well as spatially varying local volume constraints.
In situ modification of case-hardening steel 16MnCr5 by C and WC addition by means of powder bed fusion with laser beam of metals (PBF-LB/M)
Authors: Bartels Dominic , Novotny Tobias , Hentschel Oliver , Huber Florian , Mys Ruslana , Merklein Carsten , Schmidt Michael
Published: February 2022

Typical high-strength products are made from carbon-rich steels possessing relatively high carbon content, thus reducing weldability. In this work, preliminary studies on designing and tailoring a low-alloyed steel for the laser-based powder bed fusion (PBF-LB/M) process by adding carbon black (C) nanoparticles and tungsten carbide (WC) particles for enhancing the material properties are provided. First, the base material 16MnCr5 is modified with different concentrations of C and WC. It was found that an increased C and WC content resulted in an elevated material hardness in the as-built state. However, this comes at the cost of a poorer processability as pore formation increased for C-modified and crack tendency increased for WC-modified 16MnCr5. When applying a post-process quenching and optional tempering heat treatment, material hardness in the range of 615 HV can be achieved for C-enriched 16MnCr5 in the tempered state, which would be suitable for bearing and gearing applications. The addition of WC particles favored an improved wear resistance which is twice as high as the one of C-modified material for similar material hardness, showing the enormous potential of WC addition for reducing the wear rate. Complementary SEM and EDX analyses show that both the dilution and bonding zone of the WC particles are affected by the processing conditions and the WC concentration. Furthermore, it was found that a nearly defect-free fabrication of WC-enriched 16MnCr5 was possible for up to 2.5 wt.-% of WC, proving that the occurring defects are highly sensitive to the WC concentration.
Development of simple, scalable protease production from Botrytis cinerea
Authors: Self Rachel A. , Harrison Mark D. , Te’o Valentino S. , Van Sluyter Steve
Published: February 2022

Heat haze-forming proteins are stable during winemaking and are typically removed via adsorption to bentonite. Proteolytic degradation is an alternative method to prevent wine-haze and offers the opportunity to reduce the environmental impacts and labor cost of the process. Herein, we describe the development of a production system forBotrytis cinereaproteases for the enzymatic degradation of heat haze-forming proteins. The effect of culture medium on the secretion of glucan byB. cinereawas investigated and methods to inactivateB. cinerealaccase in liquid culture medium were assessed. Protease production byB. cinereawas scaled up from 50 mL in shake flasks to 1 L in bioreactors, resulting in an increase in protease yield from 0.30 to 3.04 g L−1. Glucan secretion byB. cinereawas minimal in culture medium containing lactose as a carbon source and either lactic or sulfuric acid for pH control.B. cinerealaccases were inactivated by reducing the pH of culture supernatant to 1.5 for 1 h.B. cinereaproteases were concentrated and partially purified using ammonium sulfate precipitation. SWATH-MS identified aspartic acid protease BcAP8 amongst the precipitated proteins. These results demonstrate a simple, affordable, and scalable process to produce proteases fromB. cinereaas a replacement for bentonite in winemaking.

Key points

•Isolates of B. cinerea that produce proteases with potential for reducing wine heat-haze forming proteins were identified.

•Media and fermentation optimization increased protease yield tenfold and reduced glucan secretion.

•Low pH treatment inactivated laccases but not proteases.

Graphical abstract
Deep learning reconstruction improves radiomics feature stability and discriminative power in abdominal CT imaging: a phantom study
Authors: Michallek Florian , Genske Ulrich , Niehues Stefan Markus , Hamm Bernd , Jahnke Paul
Published: February 2022

Objectives

To compare image quality of deep learning reconstruction (AiCE) for radiomics feature extraction with filtered back projection (FBP), hybrid iterative reconstruction (AIDR 3D), and model-based iterative reconstruction (FIRST).

Methods

Effects of image reconstruction on radiomics features were investigated using a phantom that realistically mimicked a 65-year-old patient’s abdomen with hepatic metastases. The phantom was scanned at 18 doses from 0.2 to 4 mGy, with 20 repeated scans per dose. Images were reconstructed with FBP, AIDR 3D, FIRST, and AiCE. Ninety-three radiomics features were extracted from 24 regions of interest, which were evenly distributed across three tissue classes: normal liver, metastatic core, and metastatic rim. Features were analyzed in terms of their consistent characterization of tissues within the same image (intraclass correlation coefficient ≥ 0.75), discriminative power (Kruskal-Wallis test p value < 0.05), and repeatability (overall concordance correlation coefficient ≥ 0.75).

Results

The median fraction of consistent features across all doses was 6%, 8%, 6%, and 22% with FBP, AIDR 3D, FIRST, and AiCE, respectively. Adequate discriminative power was achieved by 48%, 82%, 84%, and 92% of features, and 52%, 20%, 17%, and 39% of features were repeatable, respectively. Only 5% of features combined consistency, discriminative power, and repeatability with FBP, AIDR 3D, and FIRST versus 13% with AiCE at doses above 1 mGy and 17% at doses ≥ 3 mGy. AiCE was the only reconstruction technique that enabled extraction of higher-order features.

Conclusions

AiCE more than doubled the yield of radiomics features at doses typically used clinically. Inconsistent tissue characterization within CT images contributes significantly to the poor stability of radiomics features.

Key Points

• Image quality of CT images reconstructed with filtered back projection and iterative methods is inadequate for the majority of radiomics features due to inconsistent tissue characterization, low discriminative power, or low repeatability.

• Deep learning reconstruction enhances image quality for radiomics and more than doubled the feature yield at doses that are typically used in clinical CT imaging.

• Image reconstruction algorithms can optimize image quality for more reliable quantification of tissues in CT images.
Meta-analysis of aspirin-guided therapy of colorectal cancer
Authors: Mädge Johanna C. , Stallmach Andreas , Kleebusch Lisa , Schlattmann Peter
Published: February 2022

Purpose colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers worldwide. Some evidence has shown that aspirin can reduce the morbidity and mortality of CRC. The aim of this meta-analysis was to compare standard care of patients with CRC and standard care with the addition of aspirin in terms of the survival benefit.

Methods

The systematic search was conducted by two independent reviewers in the databases PubMed and Web of Science. Survival data were extracted from studies published before July 2019. We searched for randomised controlled trials, cohort studies and case-control studies.

Results

We included 27 studies in our meta-analysis. There was a sample size of 237,245 patients overall. Aspirin use after diagnosis was associated with an improvement in CRC-specific survival with a hazard ratio (HR) for cancer-related death of 0.74 (95% CI: 0.62–0.89). Our analysis of overall survival data revealed reduced mortality with an HR of 0.82 (95% CI: 0.74–0.90). Patients with the phosphatidylinositol-4, 5-bisphosphate 3-kinase catalytic subunit alpha (PIK3CA) mutation profited from postdiagnosis aspirin use (HR = 0.74, 95% CI: 0.56–0.97). For a high expression of prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2) = COX-2, we found an HR of 0.65 (95% CI: 0.52–0.82).

Conclusion

Aspirin can improve the outcome of patients with CRC. PIK3CA mutation status and high expression of PTGS2 are associated with longer survival. However, randomised controlled trials are needed to investigate postdiagnosis aspirin use in CRC patients taking into account cancer stage and gene expression.
Water therapies (hydrotherapy, balneotherapy or aqua therapy) for patients with cancer: a systematic review
Authors: Reger Maren , Kutschan Sabine , Freuding Maren , Schmidt Thorsten , Josfeld Lena , Huebner Jutta
Published: February 2022

Background

Water therapies as hydrotherapy, balneotherapy or aqua therapy are often used in the relief of disease- and treatment-associated symptoms of cancer patients. Yet, a systematic review for the evidence of water therapy including all cancer entities has not been conducted to date.

Purpose

Oncological patients often suffer from symptoms which in patients with other diseases are successfully treated with water therapy. We want to gather more information about the benefits and risks of water therapy for cancer patients.

Method

In May 2020, a systematic search was conducted searching five electronic databases (Embase, Cochrane, PsychInfo, CINAHL and PubMed) to find studies concerning the use, effectiveness and potential harm of water therapy on cancer patients.

Results

Of 3165 search results, 10 publications concerning 12 studies with 430 patients were included in this systematic review. The patients treated with water therapy were mainly diagnosed with breast cancer. The therapy concepts included aqua lymphatic therapy, aquatic exercises, foot bathes and whole-body bathes. Outcomes were state of lymphedema, quality of life, fatigue, BMI, vital parameters, anxiety and pain. The quality of the studies was assessed with the AMSTAR2-instrument, the SIGN-checklist and the IHE-Instruments. The studies had moderate quality and reported heterogeneous results. Some studies reported significantly improved quality of life, extent of lymphedema, neck and shoulder pain, fatigue and BMI while other studies did not find any changes concerning these endpoints.

Conclusion

Due to the very heterogeneous results and methodical limitations of the included studies, a clear statement regarding the effectiveness of water therapy on cancer patients is not possible.
The Forensic High and Intensive Care Monitor: Measurement Properties of a Model Fidelity Scale for Contact-Based Care in Forensic Psychiatry
Authors: Gerritsen Sylvia , Widdershoven Guy A. M. , van Melle Anne L. , de Vet Henrica C. W. , Voskes Yolande
Published: February 2022

Forensic High and Intensive Care (FHIC) has recently been developed as a new care model in Dutch forensic psychiatry. FHIC aims to provide contact-based care. To support Dutch forensic care institutions in the implementation of the model, a model fidelity scale was developed called the FHIC monitor. The aim of this study was to assess the inter-rater reliability, content validity, and construct validity of the FHIC monitor. A multi-methods design was used, combining qualitative and quantitative research. To collect data, audits and focus group meetings were organized to score care at individual wards with the monitor and get feedback from auditors and audit receiving teams about the quality of the monitor. In total, fifteen forensic mental healthcare institutions participated. The instrument showed acceptable inter-rater reliability and content validity, and a significant difference between expected high and low scoring institutions, supporting construct validity. The instrument can be used as a valid instrument to measure the level of implementation of the FHIC model on forensic psychiatric wards in the Netherlands.
Historical reconstruction of sturgeon (Acipenser spp.) spatiotemporal distribution and causes for their decline in North-Western Europe
Authors: Brevé Niels W. P. , Nagelkerke Leopold A. J. , Buijse Anthonie D. , van Tuijn Theodorus J. , Murk AlberTinka J. , Winter Hendrik V. , Lenders H. J. Rob
Published: February 2022

This study aims to reconstruct the historical spatiotemporal distribution of the anadromous sturgeons, Acipenser sturio and A. oxyrinchus, in NW-Europe (especially in the Rhine, Meuse, Scheldt, and Ems rivers, and in the North Sea), in light of evaluating the possibilities for their reintroduction. It is based on fisheries data from the 14th–twentieth century, consisting of > 5000 records of sturgeon landings and sales (c. 40,000 specimens) from the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Luxemburg, France and Switzerland. Most data originate from fisheries in the Rhine-Meuse delta (c. 28,000 specimens, 98% of the Rhine catches). Further upstream, far fewer sturgeons (c. 600 specimens) were reported from the Rhine’s mainstem and its principal tributaries, Mosel, Neckar and Main. Smaller tributaries and the Ems, Meuse, and Scheldt rivers seldom yielded sturgeons. This spatial pattern can be related to the species’ preference for large-river habitat, combined with fisheries activities that were most intensive in the delta areas. Sturgeon catches began to dwindle in the late nineteenth century, at a time when river engineering first strongly affected the sturgeon’s reproductive habitats in the Lower Rhine and delta areas. Also from then onwards, North Sea fishery pressure increased, as trawlers switched from sail to steam-powered propulsion. These sea fisheries harvested all age-classes of sturgeons year-round, including populations from other European rivers. The outcomes strongly suggest that NW-European sturgeon populations were initially impacted by intensive river fisheries, but especially by destruction of reproductive habitat, due to river regulation, and an intensified North Sea fishery, ultimately resulting in total population collapse.
A species-specific qPCR assay provides novel insight into range expansion of the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus) by means of eDNA analysis
Authors: Valsecchi Elena , Coppola Emanuele , Pires Rosa , Parmegiani Andrea , Casiraghi Maurizio , Galli Paolo , Bruno Antonia
Published: February 2022

The monk seal is the most endangered pinniped worldwide and the only one found in the Mediterranean, where its distribution and abundance have suffered a drastic decline in the last few decades. The limited understanding of the population demographics and conservation status of this species are due to both its rarity and evasiveness, with records biased towards occasional, mostly coastal, encounters. Current molecular techniques allow us to detect DNA traces released into the environment (eDNA) by any organism. We have developed three species-specific qPCR-assays targeting the 12S/16S rRNA mitogenome regions of the monk seal. The assays have been tested extensively on a comprehensive and diverse set of samples (n = 73), including positive controls from a breeding population in Madeira collected during their peak abundance, and two opportunistic collections of Mediterranean eDNA samples (offshore/coastal) from on-going projects. Monk seal DNA was detected in 47.2% of the samples collected from a ferry platform in the Tyrrhenian (2018–2019) and in 66.7% of those obtained in the Pelagie archipelago in the Strait of Sicily (2020). These findings anticipated subsequent visual observations in the proximity of these sampling areas by up to 2 years. At the Tyrrhenian site, monk seal detection increased between 2018 and 2019. The demonstrated approach provides a non-invasive and highly sensitive tool for defining the monk seal actual distribution and home range -enabling monitoring also in nocturnal hours-, for assessing its recovery rate and pinpointing coastal/offshore sites where prioritizing conservation, research, citizen-science, and educational opportunities.
Modification of CuO–ZrO2–ZnO Mixed Oxide Catalyst with Mn, Ga, Ni: Impact on Physicochemical Properties and Hydrogen Production via Low Temperature Steam Reforming of Ethanol
Authors: Śliwa Michał , Socha Robert Piotr
Published: February 2022

The influence of CuO/ZrO2/ZnO (Cu/Zr/Zn) catalyst modification with Mn, Ni, Ga on the physicochemical properties and activity toward hydrogen production in steam reforming of ethanol (SRE) reaction has been evaluated. The increase in hydrogen yield and the lowest selectivity to acetaldehyde were observed upon Cu/Zr/Zn modification with Mn and Ga. The physicochemical characterisation of spent catalysts revealed changes in catalysts phase compositions and reducibility. In the case of Cu/Zr/Zn, Cu/Zr/Zn/Ni and Cu/Zr/Zn/Ga catalysts, the CuO phase was reduced to metallic phase and Cu2O. Therefore, these spent catalysts exhibited lower reduction degree (Rd) in comparison with fresh catalysts. On the other hand, the addition of Mn preserved the copper on + 2 oxidation state during SRE reaction as indicated by XRD and XPS. The µRaman experiments showed that carbon deposit is formed only on the surface of Cu/Zr/Zn/Ni catalyst, which is the reason for the vast deactivation and the lower total activity of this catalyst in SRE. This was also supported by XPS which additionally showed interaction of carbon containing by-products with the surface active sites. In the case of other synthesised catalysts, no carbon formation was stated.

Graphical Abstract
Climate policy conflict in the U.S. states: a critical review and way forward
Authors: Basseches Joshua A. , Bromley-Trujillo Rebecca , Boykoff Maxwell T. , Culhane Trevor , Hall Galen , Healy Noel , Hess David J. , Hsu David , Krause Rachel M. , Prechel Harland , Roberts J. Timmons , Stephens Jennie C.
Published: February 2022

Many U.S. states have taken significant action on climate change in recent years, demonstrating their commitment despite federal policy gridlock and rollbacks. Yet, there is still much we do not know about the agents, discourses, and strategies of those seeking to delay or obstruct state-level climate action. We first ask, what are the obstacles to strong and effective climate policy within U.S. states?We review the political structures and interest groups that slow action, and we examine emerging tensions between climate justice and the technocratic and/or market-oriented approaches traditionally taken by many mainstream environmental groups. Second,what are potential solutions for overcoming these obstacles?We suggest strategies for overcoming opposition to climate action that may advance more effective and inclusive state policy, focusing on political strategies, media framing, collaboration, and leveraging the efforts of ambitious local governments.
The Information Encoded in Structures: Theory and Application to Molecular Cybernetics
Authors: Bielecki Andrzej , Schmittel Michael
Published: February 2022

Theoretical frames for analyzing information in biological and molecular multicomponent structures are proposed. The mathematical foundations of the proposal are presented. Both the information encoded in structures is defined and the method of calculating the amount of this information is introduced. The proposed approach is applied to the operation of a molecular multicomponent machine.
The Development and Validation of a Subscale for the School-Age Child Behavior CheckList to Screen for Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Offermans Julia E. , de Bruin Esther I. , Lange Aurelie M. C. , Middeldorp Christel M. , Wesseldijk Laura W. , Boomsma Dorret I. , Dieleman Gwen C. , Bögels Susan M. , van Steensel Francisca J. A.
Published: February 2022

The first aim of this study was to construct/validate a subscale—with cut-offs considering gender/age differences—for the school-age Child Behavior CheckList (CBCL) to screen for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) applying both data-driven (N = 1666) and clinician-expert (N = 15) approaches. Further, we compared these to previously established CBCL ASD profiles/subscales and DSM-oriented subscales. The second aim was to cross-validate results in two truly independent samples (N = 2445 and 886). Despite relatively low discriminative power of all subscales in the cross-validation samples, results indicated that the data-driven subscale had the best potential to screen for ASD and a similar screening potential as the DSM-oriented subscales. Given beneficial implications for pediatric/clinical practice, we encourage colleagues to continue the validation of this CBCL ASD subscale.
Verändern sich reflexionsbezogene Einstellungen von Studierenden nach der Nutzung von Schülerrückmeldungen im Praxissemester? Befunde einer Interventionsstudie
Authors: Göbel Kerstin , Neuber Katharina
Published: February 2022

Die Reflexion eigenen Unterrichts ist ein zentraler Bestandteil der schulpraktischen Lehrerinnnen- und Lehrerausbildung. Die Rückmeldungen von Schülerinnen und Schülern zum Unterricht können für diese Reflexion genutzt werden, da sie die Wahrnehmung der angehenden Lehrpersonen auf den Unterricht sinnvoll ergänzen können. Bislang werden Schülerrückmeldungen zum Unterricht jedoch nur selten in der Lehrpersonenausbildung eingesetzt. Die vorliegende Prä-Post-Kontrollgruppen-Studie prüft mittels Kovarianzanalysen, inwieweit die strukturierte Reflexion von Schülerrückmeldungen den Aufbau günstiger Einstellungen gegenüber Reflexion von Lehramtsstudierenden fördert und welche individuellen Voraussetzungen (Geschlecht, Selbstwirksamkeitserwartung, antizipierte Beanspruchung im Lehrerberuf) hierfür relevant sind. Die Interventionsgruppe (IG,n = 53) erhielt ein strukturiertes Reflexionsangebot unter Nutzung von Schülerrückmeldungen zum eigenen Unterricht im Praxissemester; die Kontrollgruppe (KG,n = 73) erhielt eine Praxissemesterbegleitung ohne ein entsprechendes Reflexionsangebot. Die Analyseergebnisse machen deutlich, dass die Studierenden im Praxissemester der Reflexion im Lehrerberuf eine hohe Bedeutung beimessen und insgesamt eine positive Haltung gegenüber Schülerrückmeldungen einnehmen. Im Hinblick auf die Einstellungsveränderungen zeigen sich nur bedingt Gruppenunterschiede oder Effekte individueller Voraussetzungen. Die Entwicklungen in der IG weisen auf den Bedarf einer konzeptionellen Weiterentwicklung des eingesetzten Reflexionsangebots hin.
Transformation archetypes in global food systems
Authors: Dornelles André Zuanazzi , Boonstra Wiebren J. , Delabre Izabela , Denney J. Michael , Nunes Richard J. , Jentsch Anke , Nicholas Kimberly A. , Schröter Matthias , Seppelt Ralf , Settele Josef , Shackelford Nancy , Standish Rachel J. , Oliver Tom H.
Published: February 2022

Food systems are primary drivers of human and environmental health, but the understanding of their diverse and dynamic co-transformation remains limited. We use a data-driven approach to disentangle different development pathways of national food systems (i.e. ‘transformation archetypes’) based on historical, intertwined trends of food system structure (agricultural inputs and outputs and food trade), and social and environmental outcomes (malnutrition, biosphere integrity, and greenhouse gases emissions) for 161 countries, from 1995 to 2015. We found that whilst agricultural total factor productivity has consistently increased globally, a closer analysis suggests a typology of three transformation archetypes across countries: rapidly expansionist, expansionist, and consolidative. Expansionist and rapidly expansionist archetypes increased in agricultural area, synthetic fertilizer use, and gross agricultural output, which was accompanied by malnutrition, environmental pressures, and lasting socioeconomic disadvantages. The lowest rates of change in key structure metrics were found in the consolidative archetype. Across all transformation archetypes, agricultural greenhouse gases emissions, synthetic fertilizer use, and ecological footprint of consumption increased faster than the expansion of agricultural area, and obesity levels increased more rapidly than undernourishment decreased. The persistence of these unsustainable trajectories occurred independently of improvements in productivity. Our results underscore the importance of quantifying the multiple human and environmental dimensions of food systems transformations and can serve as a starting point to identify potential leverage points for sustainability transformations. More attention is thus warranted to alternative development pathways able of delivering equitable benefits to both productivity and to human and environmental health.
Proteomic and Metabolomic Profiling in Soft Tissue Sarcomas
Authors: Chadha Madhumeeta , Huang Paul H
Published: February 2022

Opinion statement

Advances in proteomic and metabolomic technologies have accelerated our understanding of multiple aspects of cancer biology across distinct tumour types. Here we review the current state-of-the-art in the use of proteomics and metabolomics in soft tissue sarcomas. We highlight the utility of these Omics-based methodologies to identify new drug targets, synthetic lethal interactions, candidate therapeutics and novel biomarkers to facilitate patient stratification. Due to the unbiased and global nature of these profiling methods to assess the levels of protein expression, post-translational modifications such as phosphorylation and glycosylation as well as key metabolites, many of these findings have broad applications not just in specific histotypes but across multiple STS subtypes. Specific examples of proteomic and metabolomic findings that have led to the development of early phase clinical trials of investigational agents will be discussed. While promising, the use of these technologies in the study of sarcoma is still limited, and there is a need for further research in this area. In particular, it would be important to integrate these approaches with other Omics strategies such as genomics and epigenomics as well as implement these tools alongside clinical trials in order to maximize the impact of these tools on our biological understanding and treatment of this group of rare diseases of unmet need.
A simplified protocol for the detection of blood, saliva, and semen from a single biological trace using immunochromatographic tests
Authors: Basset Patrick , Blandin Prisca , Grini Annalisa , Delemont Séverine , Samie Lydie , Castella Vincent
Published: February 2022

The detection of body fluids (e.g., blood, saliva or semen) provides information that is important both for the investigation and for the choice of the analytical protocols. Because of their sensitivity, specificity, as well as their simplicity of use, immunochromatographic tests are widely applied. These tests target different body fluids and generally require specific buffer solutions. If one needs to investigate whether the material is of a specific nature (e.g., blood), this is fine. However, if the material can also contain other material (e.g., saliva or semen) then the use of different tests can be problematic. Indeed, if the different tests require different buffers, it will not be possible to perform all tests on the exact same specimen.

In this study, we assess the use of the RSID™-universal buffer to perform three immunochromatographic tests (HEXAGON OBTI, RSID-saliva, and PSA Semiquant) as well as spermatozoa detection. We use the same eluate for the detection of all three body fluids. The proposed protocol provides similar results to those obtained when each test is conducted independently. Furthermore, it does not affect the quality of the DNA profiles. The main advantage of this protocol is that the results of the presumptive test(s) and of the DNA analyses are representative of the exact same specimen.
Physical Examination of the Hip: Assessment of Femoroacetabular Impingement, Labral Pathology, and Microinstability
Authors: Wong Stephanie E. , Cogan Charles J. , Zhang Alan L.
Published: February 2022

Purpose of Review

Determining the correct diagnosis can be challenging in patients presenting with hip pain. The physical examination is an essential tool that can aid in diagnosis of hip pathology. The purpose of this review is to provide an updated summary of recent literature on the physical exam of the hip, particularly as it relates to diagnosis of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) syndrome, labral injury, and hip microinstability.

Recent Findings

Physical exam findings consistent with the diagnosis of FAI include reduced supine hip internal rotation and positive flexion-adduction-internal rotation maneuvers. Labral tears can be detected on exam with the Scour test. Studies demonstrate altered hip biomechanics in patients with FAI during activities such as walking and squatting. Those with FAI have slower squat velocities, slower sit-to-stand tests, and increased hip flexion moments during ambulation. Hip microinstability is a dynamic process, which can occur after prior hip arthroscopy. For hip microinstability, the combination of the three following positive tests (anterior apprehension, abduction-extension-external rotation, and prone external rotation) is associated with a 95% likelihood of microinstability as confirmed by examination under anesthesia at the time of surgery.

A comprehensive hip physical exam involves evaluation of the hip in multiple positions and assessing hip range of motion, strength, as well as performing provocative testing. A combination of physical exam maneuvers is necessary to accurately diagnose FAI syndrome and labral pathology as individual tests vary in their sensitivity and specificity. While an elevated level of suspicion is needed to diagnose hip microinstability, the provocative tests for microinstability are highly specific.
Recent Developments in the Assessment of Nutrition Knowledge in Athletes
Authors: Tam Ryan , Gifford Janelle A. , Beck Kathryn L.
Published: February 2022

Purpose of Review

Adequate nutrition knowledge may influence dietary behaviour, and the performance and health of athletes. Assessment of the nutrition knowledge of athletes can inform practice and provide a quantitative way to evaluate education interventions. This article aims to review nutrition knowledge questionnaires published in the last 5 years to identify advances, possible improvements in questionnaire development and design, and challenges that remain.

Recent Findings

Twelve new or modified questionnaires were identified. All had undergone validity and reliability testing. Advancements included quantitative measures of content validity and Rasch analysis. Online questionnaires were common, with at least seven using this format. Advances included use of images (n = 2), automated scored feedback (n = 1), and use of applied questions.

Summary

While advancements have been made in validation and reliability testing and electronic delivery, new questionnaires would benefit from interactive and attractive features including images, provision of electronic feedback, and applied questions.
Handling multicollinearity in quantile regression through the use of principal component regression
Authors: Davino C. , Romano R. , Vistocco D.
Published: February 2022

In many fields of applications, linear regression is the most widely used statistical method to analyze the effect of a set of explanatory variables on a response variable of interest. Classical least squares regression focuses on the conditional mean of the response, while quantile regression extends the view to conditional quantiles. Quantile regression is very convenient, whereas classical parametric assumptions do not hold and/or when relevant information lies in the tails and therefore the interest is in modeling the conditional distribution of the response at locations different from the mean. A situation common to most regression applications is the presence of strong correlations between predictors. This leads to the well-known problem of collinearity. While the effects of collinearity on least squares estimates are well investigated, this is not the case for quantile regression estimates. This paper aims to explore the collinearity problem in quantile regression. First, a simulation study analyses the problem concerning different degrees of collinearity and various response distributions. Then the paper proposes using regression on latent components as a possible solution to collinearity in quantile regression. Finally, a case study shows the assessment of the quality of service in the presence of highly correlated predictors.
Paraconiothyrium fuckelii, Diaporthe eres and Neocosmospora parceramosa causing cane blight of red raspberry in Northern Italy
Authors: Guarnaccia Vladimiro , Martino Ilaria , Brondino Luca , Gullino Maria Lodovica
Published: February 2022

Red raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) represents a relevant crop which production has largely increased worldwide during the last decade. Cane blight is one of the most common diseases of red raspberry and it can produce considerable losses. During 2019–2021, surveys were conducted in red raspberry orchards in Cuneo province, Northern Italy, to investigate the etiology and pathogen diversity in association with cane blight. Eleven isolates were collected from symptomatic plants of the cultivars ‘Diamond Jubilee’ and ‘Grandeur’, and were identified through multi-locus phylogenies and morphological features. Three fungal species were identified: Paraconiothyrium fuckelii, Diaporthe eres and Neocosmospora parceramosa. Four different genomic regions were included in the molecular analyses: ITS, tef1, tub2 and rpb2. The species pathogenicity was confirmed and P. fuckelii was revealed as the most aggressive. This study provides an insight into raspberry cane blight in Italy and the genomic loci sequencing lay the basis to develop specific diagnostic protocols to monitor the presence of pathogens and to prevent disease spread, adopting effective integrated control strategies.
New approaches: Use of assisted natural succession in revegetation of inhabited arid drylands as alternative to large-scale afforestation
Authors: Huebner Lorenz , Fadhil Al-Quraishi Ayad M. , Branch Oliver , Gaznayee Heman A. A.
Published: February 2022

It is a great concept to let nature do the work of revegetation, however in semi-arid and arid regions the process of natural succession, if it occurs at all, typically requires many years of undisturbed development until an increase in biomass becomes measurable, hence it rather is applied to remote, sparsely populated regions and may be underrated as a measure to restore native vegetation, particularly in inhabited arid areas. What are the factors that make arid successional processes successful, how to expedite, and how to enable their use for the ecological revegetation of densely populated drylands? We review restoration methods that combine the planting of shelterbelt compartments with successional revegetation of the internal area, protected from wind and drought. Various measures of assisted natural succession can be applied to greatly accelerate the revegetation, including soil tillage, amendment with organic matter and the inoculation with cyanobacteria or lichens to form biocrusts. The aim is to initiate the development of native, water-saving savanna with biodiversity, resilience and adaptability to climate change. A narrow twin shelterbelt module could facilitate the use of natural succession within inhabited and peri-urban areas, also serving as protective greenbelt for cities. A pilot is planned in a peri-urban area of Northern Iraq, with a successional area of 125–150 m between shelterbelts. Land-use of agriculture, gardening and recreation can be integrated within the successional area, which also generates engagement of residents in the maintenance work. Planting of shelterbelts is required on 10–25% (not 100%) of the restoration area, therefore the use of assisted succession within protective compartments is expected to have both, ecological and economic advantages over large-scale afforestation.
Mixed Methods Process Evaluation of a Sanitation Behavior Change Intervention in Rural Odisha, India
Authors: Sclar Gloria D. , Routray Parimita , Majorin Fiona , Udaipuria Shivika , Portela Gerard , Koehne William J. , Nagel Corey L. , Sola Steven , Caruso Bethany A.
Published: February 2022

Background

Process evaluations of public health programs are critical to understand if programs were delivered as intended and to identify improvements for future implementations. Here we present a mixed methods process evaluation of the Sundara Grama intervention, which sought to improve latrine use and safe child feces disposal among latrine-owning households in rural Odisha, India.

Methods

The Sundara Grama intervention was delivered to 36 villages in Puri district by a grassroots non-governmental organization (NGO) and included eight activities: palla performance, transect walk, community meeting, community wall painting, mother’s meeting, positive deviant household recognition, household visit, and latrine repairs. The process evaluation quantitatively assessed fidelity, dose delivered, and reach, and qualitatively examined recruitment, context, and satisfaction. Quantitative data collection included an activity observation survey, activity record, and endline trial survey. Qualitative data collection included an activity observation debrief and in-depth interviews with NGO mobilizers. For the quantitative data, a ‘delivery score’ was calculated for each activity, as well as the proportion of target participants in attendance. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

Mean delivery scores, reported as a percentage, were moderate to high. Household visit activities (97% general visit, 96% positive deviant visit) and the mother’s meeting (81%) had the highest delivery scores, followed by the palla (77%), transect walk (77%), and community meeting (60%). Activities were attended, on average, by 30% to 73% of latrine-owning households. Several factors aided delivery, including pre-intervention rapport building visits and village stakeholder support. Factors that hindered delivery included inclement weather, certain recruitment strategies, and village social dynamics.

Conclusions

Overall, the Sundara Grama intervention was implemented as intended and achieved good reach. The findings suggest education-entertainment strategies, like the palla, and multi-level communication approaches are particularly beneficial. The results also showcase the importance of examining the implementer experience and broader context.
Auf dem Weg zu einer Kulturpsychologie
Authors: Wolfradt Uwe , Allolio-Näcke Lars
Published: February 2022

Im vorliegenden Beitrag wird der akademische Lebensweg zweier Kulturpsychologen nachgezeichnet: Julius Bahle (1903–1986) und Hans Werbik (1941–2021). Trotz ihrer unterschiedlichen historischen Erfahrungen weisen die Biografien der beiden Wissenschaftler viele Parallelen auf. Ausgehend von der Liebe zur Musik erkannten sie früh, dass das subjektive Erleben einer Melodie nicht durch die „objektiven“ Methoden einer naturwissenschaftlichen Psychologie bestimmt werden kann. Beide Persönlichkeiten hatten aufgrund ihrer frühen politischen Prägung ein hohes ethisches Bewusstsein, welches den Menschen als schöpferisch frei handelndes Wesen verstand. Während Bahle aufgrund der zeithistorischen Umstände in der Nachkriegszeit eine akademische Laufbahn verwehrt blieb, konnte Werbik als Hochschullehrer einen Kreis von Gleichgesinnten finden und die Gesellschaft für Kulturpsychologie gründen. Psychologie als Kulturwissenschaft, die dem subjektiven Erleben gerecht werden soll, verband beide Persönlichkeiten.
In pursuit of yesterday
Authors: Raina Jagdeep
Published: February 2022

My artistic practice has always drawn heavily from archival research and has used strategies of reproduction to underscore the archive as a living object. By disrupting the perceived fixity of the archive and recovering its heterogeneity my work reveals hierarchies of power that play out across class, gender, sexuality, caste, race, and geography.
Which pharmacists are performing antimicrobial stewardship: A national survey and a call for collaborative efforts
Authors: Dionne Brandon , Wagner Jamie L. , Chastain Daniel B. , Rosenthal Meagen , Mahoney Monica V. , Bland Christopher M.
Published: February 2022

Objectives:

To determine how pharmacists with formal antimicrobial stewardship program (ASP) responsibilities prioritize their time and pharmacists without formal antimicrobial stewardship program responsibilities contribute to ASP activities.

Design:

A nationwide survey.

Respondents:

Members of the American College of Clinical Pharmacy who subscribe to the following practice and research network e-mail listservs: infectious diseases, adult medicine, cardiology, critical care, hematology–oncology, immunology and transplantation, and pediatrics.

Methods:

A survey was distributed via listservs. Respondents were asked about their personal and institutional demographics and ASP activities.

Results:

In total, 245 pharmacists responded: 135 pharmacists with formal antimicrobial stewardship program responsibilities; 110 pharmacists without formal antimicrobial stewardship program responsibilities. Although most respondents had completed a general pharmacy residency (85%), only 20% had completed an infectious diseases (ID) specialty residency. Among pharmacists with formal antimicrobial stewardship program responsibilities, one-third had no formal training or certification in ID or ASP. Pharmacists without formal antimicrobial stewardship program responsibilities spent ∼12.5% of their time per week on ASP activities, whereas pharmacists with formal antimicrobial stewardship program responsibilities spent 28% of their time performing non-ASP activities. Pharmacists with formal antimicrobial stewardship program responsibilities were more likely than pharmacists without formal antimicrobial stewardship program responsibilities to perform antibiotic guideline development (P < .001), antibiotic-related education (P = .002), and direct notification of rapid diagnostic results (P = .018). Pharmacists with formal antimicrobial stewardship program responsibilities without formal ID training or certification spent less time on ASP activities and were more likely to perform lower-level interventions.

Conclusions:

Many ASP activities are being performed by pharmacists without formal ID training. To ensure the future success of ASPs, pharmacists with formal antimicrobial stewardship program responsibilities should have adequate training to meet more advanced metrics, and more pharmacists without formal antimicrobial stewardship program responsibilities should be included in basic interventions.
Aldehyde oxidases mediate plant toxicant susceptibility and fecundity in the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum
Authors: Zhang Yonglei , Zhang Jiahao , Li Dongyu , Sun Haidi , Lu Ruixue , Yin Se , Guo Xinlong , Gao Shanshan
Published: February 2022

Aldehyde oxidases (AOXs) are a group of metabolic enzymes that play critical roles in the degradation of xenobiotics and chemicals. However, the physiological function of this enzyme in insects remains poorly understood. In this study, three TcAOX genes (TcAOX1, TcAOX2, TcAOX3) were identified and characterized from Tribolium castaneum genome. Spatiotemporal expression profiling showed that TcAOX1 expression was most highly expressed at the early pupal stage and was predominantly expressed in the antennae of adults, indicating that TcAOX1 was involved in the degradation of chemical signals; TcAOX2 expression was most highly expressed at the late pupal stage and was mainly expressed in the fat body, epidermis of larvae and adults, respectively; and TcAOX3 expression was in all stages and was primarily expressed in the head of adults. Moreover, the transcripts of TcAOX2 and TcAOX3 were significantly induced after exposure to plant oil, and RNA interference (RNAi) targeting of each of them enhanced the susceptibility of beetles to this plant toxicant, suggesting that these two genes are associated with plant toxicant detoxification. Intriguingly, knockdown of the TcAOX1 led to reductions in female egg-laying but unchanged the hatchability and the development of genital organs, suggesting that this gene may mediate fecundity by effecting the inactivation of chemical signals in T. castaneum. Overall, these results shed new light on the function of AOX genes in insects, and could facilitate the development of research on pest control management.