bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Vortex—A Journey into Beauty and Mystery
Authors: Decher Reiner
Published: February 2022

Vorticity is everywhere. We cannot live without it and we cannot fly without it. The vortex as a construct of fluid motion is necessary for the wing to lift. The propulsion system, be it a propeller or a jet engine, also needs a vorticity to provide the force needed to overcome the resistance of motion through air. This chapter is a road map of how we will proceed on a journey of exploration that will take us from abstract ideas to the observation of beauty and the realization of great flight performance.
Emergent strings from infinite distance limits
Authors: Lee Seung-Joo , Lerche Wolfgang , Weigand Timo
Published: February 2022

Abstract

As a refinement of the Swampland Distance Conjecture, we propose that a quantum gravitational theory in an infinite distance limit of its moduli space either decompactifies, or reduces to an asymptotically tensionless, weakly coupled string theory. We support our claim by classifying, as special cases, the behaviour of M-Theory and Type IIA string theory compactifications on Calabi-Yau three-folds at infinite distances in Kähler moduli space.

The analysis comprises three parts: we first classify the possible infinite distance limits in the classical Kähler moduli space of a Calabi-Yau three-fold. Each such limit at finite volume is characterized by a universal fibration structure, for which the generic fiber shrinking in the limit is either an elliptic curve, a K3 surface, or an Abelian surface.

In the second part we focus on M-Theory and investigate the nature of the towers of asymptotically massless states that arise from branes wrapped on the shrinking fibers. Depending on which of the three classes of fibrations are considered, we obtain decompactification to F-Theory, or a theory with a unique asymptotically tensionless, weakly coupled heterotic or Type II string, respectively. The latter probes a dual D-manifold which is in general non-geometric. In addition to the intrinsic string excitations, towers of states from M2-branes along non-contractible curves become light and correspond to further wrapping and winding modes of the tensionless heterotic or Type II string.

In the third part of the analysis, we consider Type IIA string theory on Calabi-Yau three-folds and show that quantum effects obstruct taking finite volume infinite distance limits in the Kähler moduli space. The only possible infinite distance limit which is not a decompactification limit involves K3-fibrations with string scale fiber volume and gives rise to an emergent tensionless heterotic string.
CD73 controls ocular adenosine levels and protects retina from light-induced phototoxicity
Authors: Losenkova Karolina , Takeda Akira , Ragauskas Symantas , Cerrada-Gimenez Marc , Vähätupa Maria , Kaja Simon , Paul Marius L. , Schmies Constanze C. , Rolshoven Georg , Müller Christa E. , Sandholm Jouko , Jalkanen Sirpa , Kalesnykas Giedrius , Yegutkin Gennady G.
Published: February 2022

ATP and adenosine have emerged as important signaling molecules involved in vascular remodeling, retinal functioning and neurovascular coupling in the mammalian eye. However, little is known about the regulatory mechanisms of purinergic signaling in the eye. Here, we used three-dimensional multiplexed imaging, in situ enzyme histochemistry, flow cytometric analysis, and single cell transcriptomics to characterize the whole pattern of purine metabolism in mouse and human eyes. This study identified ecto-nucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase-1 (NTPDase1/CD39), NTPDase2, and ecto-5′-nucleotidase/CD73 as major ocular ecto-nucleotidases, which are selectively expressed in the photoreceptor layer (CD73), optic nerve head, retinal vasculature and microglia (CD39), as well as in neuronal processes and cornea (CD39, NTPDase2). Specifically, microglial cells can create a spatially arranged network in the retinal parenchyma by extending and retracting their branched CD39high/CD73low processes and forming local “purinergic junctions” with CD39low/CD73− neuronal cell bodies and CD39high/CD73− retinal blood vessels. The relevance of the CD73–adenosine pathway was confirmed by flash electroretinography showing that pharmacological inhibition of adenosine production by injection of highly selective CD73 inhibitor PSB-12489 in the vitreous cavity of dark-adapted mouse eyes rendered the animals hypersensitive to prolonged bright light, manifested as decreased a-wave and b-wave amplitudes. The impaired electrical responses of retinal cells in PSB-12489-treated mice were not accompanied by decrease in total thickness of the retina or death of photoreceptors and retinal ganglion cells. Our study thus defines ocular adenosine metabolism as a complex and spatially integrated network and further characterizes the critical role of CD73 in maintaining the functional activity of retinal cells.
PACS2–TRPV1 axis is required for ER–mitochondrial tethering during ER stress and lung fibrosis
Authors: Knoell Jessica , Chillappagari Shashi , Knudsen Lars , Korfei Martina , Dartsch Ruth , Jonigk Danny , Kuehnel Mark P. , Hoetzenecker Konrad , Guenther Andreas , Mahavadi Poornima
Published: February 2022

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondria (mito) play a vital role in alveolar type II cell (AEC2) homeostasis and are both stressed in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Up to now, no data are available with regard to ER–mito cross talk and tethering under conditions of IPF. We here demonstrate that ER–mitochondrial tethering is reduced upon experimental ER stress in vitro and in the IPF AECII ex vivo, and this is—at least in part—due to decreased phosphofurin acidic cluster sorting protein 2 (PACS-2, also called PACS2) protein levels. PACS2 levels are influenced by its interaction with the transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1) and can be experimentally modified by the TRPV1-modulating drug capsaicin (CPS). Employing alveolar epithelial cells with overexpression of the terminal ER stress signaling factor Chop or the IPF-associated surfactant protein C mutation (SPCΔexon4) in vitro, we observed a restoration of PACS2 levels upon treatment with CPS. Similarly, treatment of precision cut lung slices from IPF patients with CPS ex vivo forwarded similar effects. Importantly, in all models such kind of intervention also greatly reduced the extent of alveolar epithelial apoptosis. We therefore conclude that therapeutic targeting of the PACS2–TRPV1 axis represents an interesting novel, epithelial-protective approach in IPF.
Thermodynamic theory of dislocation/grain boundary interaction
Authors: Piao Yinguang , Le Khanh Chau
Published: February 2022

The thermodynamic theory of dislocation/grain boundary interaction, including dislocation pileup against, absorption by, and transfer through the grain boundary, is developed for non-uniform plastic deformations in polycrystals. The case study is carried out on the boundary conditions affecting work hardening of a bicrystal subjected to plane constrained shear for three types of grain boundaries: (i) impermeable hard grain boundary, (ii) grain boundary that allows dislocation transfer without absorption, and (iii) grain boundary that absorbs dislocations and allows them to pass later.
Assessment of Activity Profiles in Older Adults and Lower Limb Bone Parameters: Observations from the Hertfordshire Cohort Study
Authors: Parsons C. M. , Dennison E. M. , Fuggle N. , Breasail M. Ó. , Deere K. , Hannam K. , Tobias J. H. , Cooper C. , Ward K. A.
Published: February 2022

As muscle strength and function decline with age the optimal high-impact physical activity (PA) required for bone remodelling is rarely achievable in older adults. This study aimed to explore the activity profiles of community-dwelling older men and women and to assess the relationship between individual PA profiles and lower limb bone parameters. Participants from the Hertfordshire Cohort Study wore triaxial accelerometers for 7 days and counts of low (0.5–1.0 g), medium (1.0–1.5 g), and high (> 1.5 g) vertical-impact activity were calculated. Two years later, participants underwent a pQCT scan of the tibia (4% and 38% sites) to obtain measures of bone mineral density and bone geometry. Linear regression was used to quantify associations between bone and PA loading profiles adjusting for age, sex, loading category, and BMI. Results are presented as β [95% confidence interval]. Bone and PA data were available for 82 participants. The mean (SD) age at follow-up was 81.4(2.7) years, 41.5% (n = 34) were women. The median low-impact PA count was 5281 (Inter-quartile range (IQR) 2516–12,977), compared with a median of only 189 (IQR 54–593) in medium, and 39 (IQR 9–105) in high-impact counts. Positive associations between high-impact PA and cortical area (mm2), polar SSI (mm3), and total area (mm2) at the 38% slice (6.21 [0.88, 11.54]; 61.94 [25.73, 98.14]; 10.09 [3.18, 16.99], respectively). No significant associations were found at distal tibia. These data suggest that maintaining high (> 1.5 g)-impact activity is difficult for older adults to achieve; however, even small amounts of high-impact PA are positively associated with selected cortical bone parameters 2 years later.
Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy for Achalasia
Authors: Ujiki Michael B. , VanDruff Vanessa N.
Published: February 2022

Background

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) utilizes the principles of natural orifice transluminal surgery to create an operative tunnel within the submucosal space, perform an endoluminal esophagogastromyotomy, and ultimately mitigate the progressive symptoms of achalasia. POEM is an innovative minimally invasive technique increasing in popularity and clinical significance as an effective treatment for achalasia and other disorders of spastic esophageal motility.

Methods

A comprehensive literature review was performed regarding the procedure, outcomes, and technical advancements in POEM.

Results

A growing number of studies world‐wide have shown that POEM is a safe and effective for all types of achalasia, sigmoid and non‐sigmoid type.

Conclusions

POEM continues to gain traction as a highly effective therapeutic modality for achalasia. As natural orifice transluminal surgery advances, further research is necessary to optimize utilization of endoluminal functional imaging, to tailor endoscopic technique, and to address the adverse effect of post‐operative reflux and esophagitis.
Dear Doctor Letters regarding citalopram and escitalopram: guidelines vs real-world data
Authors: de Bardeci Mateo , Greil Waldemar , Stassen Hans , Willms Jamila , Köberle Ursula , Bridler René , Hasler Gregor , Kasper Siegfried , Rüther Eckart , Bleich Stefan , Toto Sermin , Grohmann Renate , Seifert Johanna
Published: February 2022

Dear Doctor Letters (DDLs, Direct Healthcare Professional Communications) from 2011 provided guidance regarding QTc-prolonging effects with risk of torsade de pointes during treatment with citalopram and escitalopram. This study examines the DDLs’ effects on prescription behavior. Data from 8842 inpatients treated with citalopram or escitalopram with a primary diagnosis of major depressive disorder (MDD) were derived from a European pharmacovigilance study (Arzneimittelsicherheit in der Psychiatrie, AMSP) from 2001 to 2017. It was examined to what extent new maximum doses were adhered to and newly contraindicated combinations with QTc-prolonging drugs were avoided. In addition, the prescriptions of psychotropic drugs before and after DDLs were compared in all 43,480 inpatients with MDD in the data set. The proportion of patients dosed above the new limit decreased from 8 to 1% in patients ≤ 65 years and from 46 to 23% in patients > 65 years old for citalopram versus 14–5% and 47–31% for escitalopram. Combinations of es-/citalopram with other QTc-prolonging psychotropic drugs reduced only insignificantly (from 35.9 to 30.9%). However, the proportion of patients with doses of quetiapine > 150 mg/day substantially decreased within the combinations of quetiapine and es-/citalopram (from 53 to 35%). After the DDLs, prescription of citalopram decreased and of sertraline increased. The DDLs’ recommendations were not entirely adhered to, particularly in the elderly and concerning combination treatments. This might partly be due to therapeutic requirements of the included population. Official warnings should consider clinical needs.
CD13 is a useful tool in the differential diagnosis of meningiomas with potential biological and prognostic implications
Authors: Marletta Stefano , Luchini Claudio , Sperandio Nicola , Torresani Evelin , Sorio Alessandro , Girolami Ilaria , Scarpa Aldo , Eccher Albino , Ghimenton Claudio
Published: February 2022

Meningiomas are common tumors of the central nervous system. Although their histological diagnosis is usually straightforward, their differential diagnosis versus other tumors may be challenging at times. The objective of this study is to assess the diagnostic value of CD13 immunoexpression in the differential diagnosis between meningiomas and their morphological mimics. Immunohistochemical analysis for CD13, epithelial membrane antigen, SOX10, and STAT6 was carried out in a large cohort of primary meningeal tumors comprising 225 meningiomas, 15 schwannomas, and 20 solitary fibrous tumor/hemangiopericytomas. Within the meningioma group, the expression of CD13 and epithelial membrane antigen was distinguished in three categories using a semiquantitative score. Most of meningiomas expressed CD13 (94%) and epithelial membrane antigen (96%) while none of the schwannomas nor of the solitary fibrous tumor/hemangiopericytomas was positive for either the two markers. Diffuse positivity for CD13 and epithelial membrane antigen was more common in low-grade meningiomas than in anaplastic ones, which were also more often negative for such markers, especially for CD13 (32%). CD13 is a helpful immunohistochemical marker for the differential diagnosis of meningiomas and their mimics, achieving in combination with epithelial membrane antigen maximal sensitivity (100%) and showing statistically relevant difference of expression in comparison with both schwannomas (p < 0.0001) and solitary fibrous tumor/hemangiopericytomas (p < 0.0001). Furthermore, loss of CD13 expression could be related to outcome as it is associated with worrisome histological findings, mainly in the setting of anaplastic meningiomas.
Identifying Dysphagia and Demographic Associations in Older Adults Using Electronic Health Records: A National Longitudinal Observational Study in Wales (United Kingdom) 2008–2018
Authors: Hollinghurst Joe , Smithard David G.
Published: February 2022

Dysphagia is increasingly being recognised as a geriatric syndrome (giant). There is limited research on the prevalence of dysphagia using electronic health records. To investigate associations between dysphagia, as recorded in electronic health records and age, frailty using the electronic frailty index, gender and deprivation (Welsh index of multiple deprivation). A Cross-sectional longitudinal cohort study in over 400,000 older adults was undertaken (65 +) in Wales (United Kingdom) per year from 2008 to 2018. We used the secure anonymised information linkage databank to identify dysphagia diagnoses in primary and secondary care. We used chi-squared tests and multivariate logistic regression to investigate associations between dysphagia diagnosis and age, frailty (using the electronic Frailty index), gender and deprivation. Data indicated < 1% of individuals were recorded as having a dysphagia diagnosis per year. We found dysphagia to be statistically significantly associated with older age, more severe frailty and individuals from more deprived areas. Multivariate analyses indicated increased odds ratios [OR (95% confidence intervals)] for a dysphagia diagnosis with increased age [reference 65–74: aged 75–84 OR 1.09 (1.07, 1.12), 85 + OR 1.23 (1.20, 1.27)], frailty (reference fit: mild frailty 2.45 (2.38, 2.53), moderate frailty 4.64 (4.49, 4.79) and severe frailty 7.87 (7.55, 8.21)] and individuals from most deprived areas [reference 5. Least deprived, 1. Most deprived: 1.10 (1.06, 1.14)]. The study has identified that prevalence of diagnosed dysphagia is lower than previously reported. This study has confirmed the association of dysphagia with increasing age and frailty. A previously unreported association with deprivation has been identified. Deprivation is a multifactorial problem that is known to affect health outcomes, and the association with dysphagia should not be a surprise. Research in to this relationship is indicated.
The use of fluorescence angiography to assess bowel viability in the acute setting: an international, multi-centre case series
Authors: Joosten Johanna J. , Longchamp Grégoire , Khan Mohammad F. , Lameris Wytze , van Berge Henegouwen Mark I. , Bemelman Wilhelmus A. , Cahill Ronan A. , Hompes Roel , Ris Frédéric
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Assessing bowel viability can be challenging during acute surgical procedures, especially regarding mesenteric ischaemia. Intraoperative fluorescence angiography (FA) may be a valuable tool for the surgeon to determine whether bowel resection is necessary and to define the most appropriate resection margins. The aim of this study is to report on FA use in the acute setting and to judge its impact on intraoperative decision making.

Materials and methods

This is a multi-centre, retrospective case series of patients undergoing emergency abdominal surgery between February 2016 and 2021 in three general/colorectal units where intraoperative FA was performed to assess bowel viability. Primary endpoint was change of management after the FA assessment.

Results

A total of 93 patients (50 males, 66.6 ± 19.2 years, ASA score ≥ III in 85%) were identified and studied. Initial surgical approach was laparotomy in 66 (71%) patients and laparoscopy in 27 (29% and seven, 26% conversions). The most common aetiologies were mesenteric ischaemia (n = 42, 45%) and adhesional/herniae-related strangulation (n = 41, 44%). In 50 patients a bowel resection was performed. Overall rates of anastomosis after resection, reoperation and 30-day mortality were 48% (n = 24/50, one leak), 12% and 18%, respectively. FA changed management in 27 (29%) patients. In four patients (4% overall), resection was avoided and in 21 (23%) extra bowel length was preserved (median 50 cm of bowel saved, IQR 28–98) although three patients developed further ischaemia. FA prompted extended resection (median of 20 cm, IQR 10–50 extra bowel) in six (6%) patients.

Conclusion

Intraoperative use of FA impacts surgical decisions regarding bowel resection for intestinal ischaemia, potentially enabling bowel preservation in approximately one out of four patients. Prospective studies are needed to optimize the best use of this technology for this indication and to determine standards for the interpretation of FA images and the potential subsequent need for second-look surgeries.
Motor skills, cognitive impairment, and quality of life in normal pressure hydrocephalus: early effects of shunt placement
Authors: Hülser Matthias , Spielmann Hannah , Oertel Joachim , Sippl Christoph
Published: February 2022

Background

Traditionally, clinical findings of normal pressure hydrocephalus are mainly characterized by the Hakim triad. The aim of this study is to evaluate the performance of patients suffering from idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) in a more holistic manner regarding motor skills, cognitive impairment, and quality of life.

Methods

In total, 30 individuals diagnosed with iNPH as well as a reference group with another 30 individuals were included. The iNPH patients and the reference group were age, educational, and morbidity matched. A standardized test battery for psychomotor skills, gait, neuropsychological abilities as well as questionnaires for quality of life was applied. The iNPH group was tested prior to surgery, at 6 weeks, and 3 months postoperatively. The reference group was tested once.

Results

Patients showed a significant improved performance in various items of the test battery during the first 3 months postoperatively. This included neuropsychological evaluation, motor skills including gait and upper motor function as well as the quality of life of the patients. Compared to reference individuals, neuropsychological aspects and quality of life of iNPH patients improved in some parts nearly to normal values.

Conclusion

Our findings underline that shunt surgery does not only improve the symptoms in iNPH patients but also ameliorates the quality of life to a great extent close to those of age and comorbidity matched reference individuals. This data enables an optimized counseling of iNPH patients regarding the expectable outcome after shunt surgery especially regarding cognitive performance, motor skills as well as life quality.
The impact of cost-sharing on prescription drug demand: evidence from a double-difference regression kink design
Authors: Gamba Simona , Jakobsson Niklas , Svensson Mikael
Published: February 2022

Pharmaceuticals represent the third-largest expenditure item in health care spending in the OECD countries, and cost growth is around 5% per year in many OECD countries. One possible way to contain the rise in pharmaceutical spending is the use of cost-sharing schemes that makes insured individuals directly bear parts of the cost of a drug. This study estimates the price sensitivity of demand for prescription drugs using data on all prescription drug purchases from a random sample of 400,000 Swedes followed from 2010 to 2013. We use a regression kink design (RKD) by exploiting the kinked Swedish cost-sharing scheme to assess the price elasticity. Further, since the cost-sharing scheme has changed over time, we also use a double-difference RKD to account for potential confounding nonlinearities around the kink. Our results indicate that the standard RKD results are biased and exaggerate the price sensitivity. Our preferred double-difference RKD specifications show no or minor price sensitivity (95% CI price elasticity from − 0.12 to 0.02). The results are similar in several sub-group analyses across age groups, sexes, and income quartiles.
On Wild Algebras and Super-Decomposable Pure-Injective Modules
Authors: Pastuszak Grzegorz
Published: February 2022

Assume that k is an algebraically closed field and A is a finite-dimensional wild k-algebra. Recently, L. Gregory and M. Prest proved that in this case the width of the lattice of all pointed A-modules is undefined. Hence the result of M. Ziegler implies that there exists a super-decomposable pure-injective A-module, if the base field k is countable. Here we give a different and straightforward proof of this fact. Namely, we show that there exists a special family of pointed A-modules, called an independent pair of dense chains of pointed A-modules. This also yields the existence of a super-decomposable pure-injective A-module.
Establishment of pediatric developmental dysplasia of the hip biobank: Shanghai children’s hospital experience
Authors: Yang Dan , Wang Shiqi , Ke Chenghui , Ma Qichao , Fan Lingyan , Wang Yichen , Chen Mengjie , Ying Hao , Wang Sun , Jiao Qin , Shen Yang , Zhao Lihua
Published: February 2022

Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a debilitating condition that affects 1–7% of newborns. Children with DDH, not treated early and effectively, will easily lead to disability. A better understanding of the biology of DDH is critical to the development of prognostic biomarkers and novel therapies. The purpose of this study was to establish a biobank of DDH genetic resources, to facilitate clinical and basic scientific research. The biological specimen and clinical data of DDH were collected in Shanghai Children’s Hospital from 2014 to 2021. The collection of blood samples was performed at definitive diagnosis and review, tissue specimens were performed at definitive surgery. The clinical data was collected at the whole stage of DDH patients at diagnosis, treatment and follow-up. A total of 528 patients with DDH were enrolled in this study, 90 were men and 438 were women, with the mean age of 4.67 years. The numbers of tissue and blood specimens reached 2172 and 1490, respectively. The quality test results showed that the DNA concentration decreased slightly with the extension of storage time, but the DNA purity did not change. Meanwhile, the extension of storage time slightly affected the stability of protein of tissue samples but did not affect the expression of the housekeeping gene. The DDH biobank built has the potential of monitoring disease pathogenesis and progress, which could provide specimens to the researchers improving the biological understanding and provide guidance of clinical treatment of this disease to clinicians.
Phase transitions of cellulose nanocrystal suspensions from nonlinear oscillatory shear
Authors: Wojno Sylwia , Fazilati Mina , Nypelö Tiina , Westman Gunnar , Kádár Roland
Published: February 2022

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) self-assemble in water suspensions into liquid crystalline assemblies. Here, we elucidate the microstructural changes associated with nonlinear deformations in (2–9 wt%) CNC suspensions through nonlinear rheological analysis, that was performed in parallel with coupled rheology—polarized light imaging. We show that nonlinear material parameters from Fourier-transform rheology and stress decomposition are sensitive to all CNC phases investigated, i.e. isotropic, biphasic and liquid crystalline. This is in contrast to steady shear and linear viscoelastic dynamic moduli where the three-region behavior and weak strain overshoot cannot distinguish between biphasic and liquid crystalline phases. Thus, the inter-cycle and intra-cycle nonlinear parameters investigated are a more sensitive approach to relate rheological measurements to CNC phase behavior.
Development of the first PVM TaqMan® primer set and a one-step real-time multiplex DiRT-PCR for the detection of PLRV, PVY, PVM, PVS, PVA and PVX in potato tuber sap
Authors: Prinz Mirjam , Kellermann Adolf , Bauch Gerda , Hadersdorfer Johannes , Stammler Johanna
Published: February 2022

Testing for potato viruses is globally very important to prevent a critical shortage of potato supply. In most countries, testing is obligated by law. In Germany, seed potatoes are monitored for six viruses: PLRV, PVY, PVM, PVA, PVX and PVS. They can cause up to 90% loss of potato tubers in the field. Common methods currently used for testing are ELISA and conventional real-time PCR, but both are very time-consuming, and the former needs a high capacity of green houses and human resources, the latter elaborate RNA extraction steps. Recently, we proposed a new method called real-time DiRT-PCR which enables us to test for PLRV, PVY and PVS along with an internal control in three duplex real-time PCR reactions directly on diluted tuber sap. In this study, we describe the first TaqMan® assay for PVM published so far and embed it into a multiplex system to detect the remaining viruses. We are now able to sensitively test for the presence of six viruses in two multiplex reactions using the real-time DiRT-PCR without RNA purification.
Flow induced by a line sink near a vertical wall in a fluid with a free surface Part I: infinite depth
Authors: Mansoor Wafaa. F. , Hocking Graeme C. , Farrow Duncan E.
Published: February 2022

The two-dimensional, steady flow of an inviscid fluid induced by a line sink located near a vertical wall in a region of infinite depth is computed. The effects of surface tension are investigated. The solution in the limit of small Froude number is obtained analytically, and numerically for the nonlinear problem. The asymptotic solution is found to have a property that if the horizontal location of the sink, $$x_\mathrm{{s}} < 1$$

x
s

<
1

, there is only one stagnation point on the surface, at the wall. However, if the horizontal location $$x_{\mathrm{s}} > 1$$

x
s

>
1

, a second stagnation point forms on the free surface. Numerical solution for the nonlinear problem confirms these properties. The effect of moving the sink horizontally has also been considered. The maximum Froude numbers at which steady solutions exist are computed and compared with the previous work.
Experiences of Performing Daily Activities in Middle-Aged and Older Autistic Adults: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Hwang Ye In Jane , Foley Kitty-Rose , Elley Kieran , Brown Scott , Joy-Leong Dawn , Li Xue , Grove Rachel , Trollor Julian , Pellicano Elizabeth , Zheng Lidan
Published: February 2022

This is the first study to investigate instrumental activities of daily living in older autistic adults. We conducted interviews with fifteen adults (mean age = 60.1, SD = 7.4, range = 50–73) from Australia with no intellectual disability. Analysis included both deductive and inductive steps, to categorise responses using the Occupational Performance Model Australia and identify themes across participants’ experiences. Strengths and challenges were unique to the individual, as were the methods they had developed to manage tasks. Challenges occurred mostly at the interaction between aspects of the environment (sensory, cognitive, social and cultural) and personal factors such as health conditions and sensory sensitivities. Enhanced person-environment fit is needed, as is a shift in wider sociocultural attitudes to enable comfort and autonomy in later life.
The Cutoff Phenomenon in Wasserstein Distance for Nonlinear Stable Langevin Systems with Small Lévy Noise
Authors: Barrera G. , Högele M. A. , Pardo J. C.
Published: February 2022

This article establishes the cutoff phenomenon in the Wasserstein distance for systems of nonlinear ordinary differential equations with a dissipative stable fixed point subject to small additive Markovian noise. This result generalizes the results shown in Barrera, Högele, Pardo (EJP2021) in a more restrictive setting of Blumenthal-Getoor index $$\alpha >3/2$$

α
>
3
/
2

to the formulation in Wasserstein distance, which allows to cover the case of general Lévy processes with some given moment. The main proof techniques are based on the close control of the errors in a version of the Hartman–Grobman theorem and the adaptation of the linear theory established in Barrera, Högele, Pardo (JSP2021). In particular, they rely on the precise asymptotics of the nonlinear flow and the nonstandard shift linearity property of the Wasserstein distance, which is established by the authors in (JSP2021). Main examples are the nonlinear Fermi–Pasta–Ulam–Tsingou gradient flow and dissipative nonlinear oscillators subject to small (and possibly degenerate) Brownian or arbitrary $$\alpha $$
α
-stable noise.
Towards effective reforestation: growth and commercial value of four commonly planted tropical timber species on infertile soils in Panama
Authors: Sinacore Katherine , García Edwin H. , Howard Theodore , van Breugel Michiel , Lopez Omar R. , Finkral Alex J. , Hall Jefferson S.
Published: February 2022

Finding suitable tree species that not only grow well on nutrient poor soils but are also safe financial investments is one of the major obstacles to successful reforestation efforts in the tropics. Our study compared the financial viability and growth of valuable timber species in monocultures and mixtures on infertile soils. Our work shows the extraordinary growth in volume and value of Dalbergia retusa and Terminalia amazonia while underscoring the poor financial viability of Tectona grandis and Pachira quinata, all commonly planted timber species in Panama and much of Central and South America. Using Bayesian statistics, our predictions show that T. amazonia monocultures could reach nearly 200 m3 ha−1 of merchantable volume after 30 years compared to the ~ 40 m3 ha−1 that T. grandis could accumulate in the same time frame. While D. retusa monocultures did not have the highest predicted merchantable volumes of all the species, it did have the highest predicted net present value (NPV), with a predicted mean NPV of > US$97,000 ha−1, quadrupling the species with the next highest monoculture’s NPV, T. amazonia monocultures (~ US$20,000 ha−1). Our work emphasizes that reforestation can be financially viable on low nutrient soils, even in the absence of fertilization or other silvicultural manipulations, if species selection and site are carefully considered and matched.
The Thinking Frames Approach: Improving High School Students’ Written Explanations of Phenomena in Science
Authors: McLure Felicity
Published: February 2022

Secondary school students find it difficult to write elaborated causal explanations of scientific phenomena. They frequently present their own opinions and write descriptions of their observations rather than linking observations with logical chains of causal reasoning, underpinned by a theoretical framework, to provide explanations of scientific phenomena. Science teachers also express difficulties in supporting students to develop scientific writing skills. In order to improve students’ written scientific explanations, a teaching strategy known as the Thinking Frames Approach (TFA) was introduced into two Grade 9 classrooms over two years. This multidimensional conceptual change strategy makes use of the affordances of student-generated multiple representations, teacher-student questioning, and small group discussions to support students in constructing understanding and written explanations. Students are also taught to reflect on and evaluate their written explanations. Students’ written responses explaining observations of scientific phenomena were collected over a nine-month period and evaluated using the analysis system for student explanations developed by de Andrade et al. (Res Sci Educ 49:787-807, 2019). A significant improvement in students’ written explanations linking observations with logical chains of reasoning and scientific theories was observed over this period. The TFA provides a strategy that teachers may implement to support students in developing skills in writing explanations by providing an appropriate level of scaffolding in the writing process. An added benefit of this approach was students’ increased confidence in producing written explanations.
Teacher stress and burnout in Australia: examining the role of intrapersonal and environmental factors
Authors: Carroll Annemaree , Forrest Kylee , Sanders-O’Connor Emma , Flynn Libby , Bower Julie M. , Fynes-Clinton Samuel , York Ashley , Ziaei Maryam
Published: February 2022

Concerns regarding high rates of teacher stress and burnout are present globally. Yet there is limited current data regarding the severity of stress, or the role of intrapersonal and environmental factors in relation to teacher stress and burnout within the Australian context. The present study, conducted over an 18-month period, prior to the COVID pandemic, surveyed 749 Australian teachers to explore their experience of work-related stress and burnout; differences in stress and burnout across different demographic groups within the profession; as well as the contributing role of intrapersonal and environmental factors, particularly, emotion regulation, subjective well-being, and workload. Results showed over half of the sample reported being very or extremely stressed and were considering leaving the profession, with early career teachers, primary teachers, and teachers working in rural and remote areas reporting the highest stress and burnout levels. Conditional process analyses highlighted the importance of emotion regulation, workload and subjective well-being in the development of teacher stress and some forms of burnout. Implications for educational practice are discussed.
Group Representation for Even and Odd Involutive Commutative Residuated Chains
Authors: Jenei Sándor
Published: February 2022

For odd and for even involutive, commutative residuated chains a representation theorem is presented in this paper by means of direct systems of abelian o-groups equipped with further structure. This generalizes the corresponding result of J. M. Dunn about finite Sugihara monoids.
How Within-Study Comparisons can Inform Research and Evaluation Design for the Third Sector
Authors: Anderson Kaitlin P. , Wolf Patrick J.
Published: February 2022

Within-study comparisons (WSCs) compare quasi-experimental results to an experimental benchmark and assess the extent to which quasi-experiments (QEs) sacrifice internal validity for external validity. WSCs inform decisions about when to use experiments or QEs, as well as methodological decisions (e.g., covariate selection) about how to implement QEs when they are necessary or preferred. We review the methodological literature on WSCs and present the findings from a WSC of a school voucher program as an example of the use of WSCs to inform policy debates involving the third sector. Prior literature and our results suggest that QE evaluations of third-sector institutions can produce low levels of bias, but only if analytic models include key proxy variables for voluntary self-selection into programs.
Sentiment analysis and topic modeling for COVID-19 vaccine discussions
Authors: Yin Hui , Song Xiangyu , Yang Shuiqiao , Li Jianxin
Published: February 2022

The outbreak of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has been ongoing for almost two years and has had an unprecedented impact on the daily lives of people around the world. More recently, the emergence of the Delta variant of COVID-19 has once again put the world at risk. Fortunately, many countries and companies have developed vaccines for the coronavirus. As of 23 August 2021, more than 20 vaccines have been approved by the World Health Organization (WHO), bringing light to people besieged by the pandemic. The global rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine has sparked much discussion on social media platforms, such as the effectiveness and safety of the vaccine. However, there has not been much systematic analysis of public opinion on the COVID-19 vaccine. In this study, we conduct an in-depth analysis of the discussions related to the COVID-19 vaccine on Twitter. We analyze the hot topics discussed by people and the corresponding emotional polarity from the perspective of countries and vaccine brands. The results show that most people trust the effectiveness of vaccines and are willing to get vaccinated. In contrast, negative tweets tended to be associated with news reports of post-vaccination deaths, vaccine shortages, and post-injection side effects. Overall, this study uses popular Natural Language Processing (NLP) technologies to mine people’s opinions on the COVID-19 vaccine on social media and objectively analyze and visualize them. Our findings can improve the readability of the confusing information on social media platforms and provide effective data support for the government and policy makers.
Can FDI facilitate green total factor productivity in China? Evidence from regional diversity
Authors: You Jialu , Xiao Hang
Published: February 2022

The development of foreign direct investment conforms to the theoretical principles of green total factor productivity and is key to promoting regional industry upgrading. Using three-stage data envelopment analysis (DEA) based on city-level data, this paper investigates the effect of foreign direct investment on regional green total factor productivity (GTFP) across China. The results show that foreign direct investment affects regional GTFP through technology spillover effect and human capital spillover effect. Under different environmental regulation intensity and marketization, the relationship between FDI and green total factor productivity is non-linear. The phenomena of “pollution paradise” and “bottom line race” survived at low marketization regional and foreign direct investment will inhibit the improvement of regional green total factor productivity in China.
Compulsory vaccination against COVID-19: a legal and ethical perspective on public good versus personal reticence
Authors: Dunne Colum P. , Spain Eimear
Published: February 2022

Coercive measures to protect public health are controversial, eliciting questions regarding state-patient relationships and conflicts between individual autonomy and public good. This is challenging in a time when respect for patient autonomy has become elevated yet society faces an increasing number of public health challenges, the most recent being the SARS-CoV-2 virus (COVID-19). In that context, there is emphasis on increasing vaccination rates internationally in order to achieve “herd immunity”, raising the possibility of compulsory vaccination of populations in the future. Here, we explore current rights of individuals to decline vaccination, utilising prior learning from other viral pathogens internationally (specifically, measles, mumps and rubella), and related public health outcomes. Further, we consider freedom of choice versus mandatory treatment necessitated to avoid contagion during disease outbreaks (such as COVID-19). In doing so, we utilise rhetorical reasoning in the form of casuistry focusing on the core challenges regarding public good versus personal antipathy towards vaccination.
Allogeneic Chimeric Antigen Receptor Therapy in Lymphoma
Authors: Khurana Arushi , Lin Yi
Published: February 2022

Opinion statement

The therapeutic armamentarium has significantly expanded since the approval of various CD19-targeting chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) therapies in non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). These CAR-Ts are patient-specific and require a complex, resource, and time-consuming process. While this appears promising, autologous CAR-Ts are limited due to the lack of accessibility, manufacturing delays, and variable product quality. To overcome these, allogeneic (allo) CARs from healthy donors appear appealing. These can be immediately available as “off the shelf” ready-to-use products of standardized and superior quality exempt from the effects of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and prior treatments, and potentially with lower healthcare utilization using industrialized scale production. Allogeneic CARs, however, are not devoid of complications and require genomic editing, especially with αβ T cells to avoid graft versus host disease (GvHD) and allo-rejection by the recipient’s immune system. Tools for genomic editing such as TALEN and CRISPR provide promise to develop truly “off the shelf” universal CARs and further advance the field of cellular immunotherapy. Several allogeneic CARs are currently in early phase clinical trials, and preliminary data is encouraging. Longer follow-up is required to truly assess the feasibility and safety of these techniques in the patients. This review focuses on the strategies for developing allogeneic CARs along with cell sources and clinical experience thus far in lymphoma.
In Vivo Localization of the Human Velocity Storage Mechanism and Its Core Cerebellar Networks by Means of Galvanic-Vestibular Afternystagmus and fMRI
Authors: Rühl Maxine , Kimmel Rebecca , Ertl Matthias , Conrad Julian , zu Eulenburg Peter
Published: February 2022

Humans are able to estimate head movements accurately despite the short half-life of information coming from our inner ear motion sensors. The observation that the central angular velocity estimate outlives the decaying signal of the semicircular canal afferents led to the concept of a velocity storage mechanism (VSM). The VSM can be activated via visual and vestibular modalities and becomes manifest in ocular motor responses after sustained stimulation like whole-body rotations, optokinetic or galvanic vestibular stimulation (GVS). The VSM has been the focus of many computational modelling approaches; little attention though has been paid to discover its actual structural correlates. Animal studies localized the VSM in the medial and superior vestibular nuclei. A significant modulation by cerebellar circuitries including the uvula and nodulus has been proposed. Nevertheless, the corresponding neuroanatomical structures in humans have not been identified so far. The aim of the present study was to delineate the neural substrates of the VSM using high-resolution infratentorial fMRI with a fast T2* sequence optimized for infratentorial neuroimaging and via video-oculography (VOG). The neuroimaging experiment (n=20) gave first in vivo evidence for an involvement of the vestibular nuclei in the VSM and substantiate a crucial role for cerebellar circuitries. Our results emphasize the importance of cerebellar feedback loops in VSM most likely represented by signal increases in vestibulo-cerebellar hubs like the uvula and nodulus and lobule VIIIA. The delineated activation maps give new insights regarding the function and embedment of Crus I, Crus II, and lobule VII and VIII in the human vestibular system.
An improved LINMAP for multicriteria decision: designing customized incentive portfolios in an organization
Authors: Rubiano-Moreno Jessica , Nucamendi-Guillén Samuel , Cordero-Franco Alvaro , Rodríguez-Magaña Alejandro
Published: February 2022

This study proposes three new versions of the well-known linear programming technique for multidimensional preference analysis (LINMAP). LINMAP addresses the multi-criteria decision problem by analyzing individual differences in preferences in relation to a set of prespecified incentives in multidimensional attribute space. The proposed models satisfy the decision-maker’s specific needs, such as determining a fixed number of incentives to be active or assigning a minimum/maximum weight for the active incentives. The performance of the developed models is assessed using information from a case study in which a decision-maker desires to determine an optimal portfolio of incentives based on the preferences of individuals surveyed. Experimental results confirm that the proposed models could obtain solutions according to the decision-maker’s needs, yielding a better selection of incentives to activate and their corresponding distribution of the weights than those of the original LINMAP model. Moreover, the consistency of the proposed models is evaluated by performing a sensitivity analysis over database variations of the case study and comparing the outcomes with the results provided in the original case study. Overall, this work is promising when creating a design portfolio, considering individuals’ different preferences.
The complex challenge of governing food systems: The case of South African food policy
Authors: Kushitor Sandra Boatemaa , Drimie Scott , Davids Rashieda , Delport Casey , Hawkes Corinna , Mabhaudhi Tafadzwanashe , Ngidi Mjabuliseni , Slotow Rob , Pereira Laura M.
Published: February 2022

International experience reveals that food policy development often occurs in silos and offers few tangible mechanisms to address the interlinked, systemic issues underpinning food and nutrition insecurity. This paper investigated what South African government policies cover in terms of different aspects of the food system, who is responsible for them, and how coordinated they are. Policy objectives were categorized into seven policy domains relevant to food systems: agriculture, environment, social protection, health, land, education, economic development, and rural development. Of the ninety-one policies reviewed from 1947–2017, six were identified as being "overarching" with goals across all the domains. About half of the policies focused on agriculture and the environment, reflecting an emphasis on agricultural production. Policies were formulated and implemented in silos. As a result, learning from implementation, and adjusting to improve impact has been limited. Particularly important is that coordination during implementation, across these complex domains, has been partial. In order to achieve its stated food and nutrition outcomes, including Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2, South Africa needs to translate its policies into tangible, practical plans and processes guided by effective coordination and alignment. Key recommendations are practically to align policies to a higher-level "food goal", establish better coordination mechanisms, consolidate an effective monitoring and evaluation approach to address data gaps and encourage learning for adaptive implementation. Actively engaging the existing commitments to the SDGs would draw stated international commitments together to meet the constitutional commitment to food rights into an overarching food and nutrition security law.