bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The COVID‐19 vaccine: Attitudes and vaccination in patients with autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases
Authors: Chen Jiali , Cai Wenxin , Liu Tian , Zhou Yunshan , Jin Yuebo , Yang Yue , Chen Shi , Tang Kun , Li Chun
Published: February 2022

Background

We examined attitudes toward the COVID‐19 vaccine, potential factors underlying these attitudes, and ways to increase vaccination willingness in autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases (AIIRD) patients.

Methods

A multicenter, web‐based, observational survey using an online questionnaire was conducted among AIIRD patients aged ≥18 years from May 24, 2021, to June 3, 2021. Participants were 3104 AIIRD patients (2921 unvaccinated and 183 vaccinated).

Results

Of the unvaccinated patients, 32.9% were willing to receive the COVID‐19 vaccine, 45.0% were uncertain, and 14.8% were unwilling. When vaccination was recommended by physicians, patients' willingness increased to 93.8%. Participants' main concerns were that the vaccine may aggravate AIIRD disease (63.0%) and may cause vaccine‐related adverse events (19.9%). Female patients were less likely to be vaccinated. However, patients who had children aged ≤18 years were more willing to be vaccinated. In addition, vaccination willingness was higher in patients with trust in the safety and efficacy of the COVID‐19 vaccine. Notably, 183 (5.9%) patients were vaccinated. The major vaccination side effects were injection reaction, myalgia, and fatigue. At a median follow‐up of 88 (38, 131) days, patients' disease activities were stable.

Conclusions

The findings show that AIIRD patients were unwilling to receive the COVID‐19 vaccine because of fears of potential disease exacerbation and additional adverse events. Sociodemographic characteristics and concerns about COVID‐19 disease and vaccines had a significant effect on vaccination willingness.
Cystic lung disease as a complication of post‐tuberculosis infection in young patients: A rare manifestation of a common disease
Authors: Johari Bushra , Khor Boon Hock , Musa Aisya Natasya , Abdul Kadir Roqiah Fatmawati
Published: February 2022

Tuberculosis (TB) is a common disease which is still endemic in many countries including Malaysia. Acquired cystic lung disease is a rare complication of post‐TB infection. We aim to describe two cases of young patients who developed cystic lung disease during treatment for TB, which were further complicated with recurrent pneumothorax. We reiterate the need to consider TB in the differential diagnoses of cystic lung disease in the appropriate clinical context.
Retention of viability by fragmented invasive Crassula helmsii, Elodea canadensis and Lagarosiphon major
Authors: Coughlan Neil E. , Armstrong Fearghail , Baker‐Arney Connie , Crane Kate , Cuthbert Ross N. , Jansen Marcel A. K. , Kregting Louise , Vong Gina Y. W. , Dick Jaimie T. A.
Published: February 2022

Invasive aquatic macrophytes tend to reproduce and spread through vegetative means, often via fragmentary propagules. Dispersal among aquatic sites may occur overland via attachment to various vectors, or within river systems by directional water currents. However, for many species the relationship between fragment size and resumption of growth is unknown. Here, we assessed resumption of growth of apical and mid‐stem fragments of invasive Crassula helmsii, Elodea canadensis and Lagarosiphon major. Proportionally, apical fragments tended to more readily resume growth than mid‐stem sections, especially for E. canadensis and L. major (80–100%). However, viability did not scale linearly with increasing fragment size, which suggests that fragment size is not a singular determinant of propagule fitness. Nevertheless, longer fragments generally produced greater numbers of shoots and roots, but root production significantly differed among species and was determined through an interaction between plant section, species and fragment length. Overall, all species produced new shoots and roots from fragments as small as 10 mm. C. helmsii mid‐stem fragments standardised by node counts did not display new growth (up to 10 nodes), while E. canadensis tended to show greater shoot and root production with increasing node counts. It is evident that a medium to high proportion of small fragmentary propagules of these invasive macrophytes can retain viability. These data have clear implications for understanding the dispersal of these invasive species and their management. Specifically, cutting and dredging may increase rather than decrease infestations, especially in downstream directions. Thus, in the absence of adequate fragment containment, current short‐term control strategies may in fact be counterproductive.
Optimal adaptive promising zone designs
Authors: Mehta Cyrus , Bhingare Apurva , Liu Lingyun , Senchaudhuri Pralay
Published: February 2022

We develop optimal decision rules for sample size re‐estimation in two‐stage adaptive group sequential clinical trials. It is usual for the initial sample size specification of such trials to be adequate to detect a realistic treatment effect with good power, but not sufficient to detect the smallest clinically meaningful treatment effect . Moreover it is difficult for the sponsors of such trials to make the up‐front commitment needed to adequately power a study to detect . It is easier to justify increasing the sample size if the interim data enter a so‐called “promising zone” that ensures with high probability that the trial will succeed. We have considered promising zone designs that optimize unconditional power and promising zone designs that optimize conditional power and have discussed the tension that exists between these two objectives. Where there is reluctance to base the sample size re‐estimation rule on the parameter we propose a Bayesian option whereby a prior distribution is assigned to the unknown treatment effect , which is then integrated out of the objective function with respect to its posterior distribution at the interim analysis.
Dynamic response evaluation on TMD and main tower of Shanghai Tower subjected to Typhoon In‐Fa
Authors: Zhang Qilin , Luo Xiaoqun , Ding Jiemin , Xie Bo , Gao Xianzhan
Published: February 2022

Typhoon In‐Fa was the strongest tropical cyclone that impacted the Shanghai Tower (ST) since the completion of the Tower, which is the tallest building in China with a height of 632 m. Wind characteristics of the Typhoon In‐Fa were described based on measured data including average wind and fluctuating wind. Structural behaviors of the main tower and the tuned mass damper (TMD) during In‐Fa were measured and analyzed based on monitoring data from the structural health monitoring (SHM) system of the ST. The peak values and root mean squares (RMS) of accelerations and displacements of the TMD and main tower were evaluated and compared with numerical results. The correlations of accelerations and displacements between the TMD and the main tower were investigated, and linear relations would be given in a certain extent. Model parameters including fundamental frequencies and damping ratios were identified by the peak picking method, and strong linear correlations were obtained between the TMD and main tower. The results showed that the actual working behavior of the TMD meets the analyzed results, and the effectiveness of the vibration control of the TMD can be verified under strong winds near a 10‐year return period.
Regulation and outcomes of localized RNA translation
Authors: Gasparski Alexander N. , Mason Devon E. , Moissoglu Konstadinos , Mili Stavroula
Published: February 2022

Spatial segregation of mRNAs in the cytoplasm of cells is a well‐known biological phenomenon that is widely observed in diverse species spanning different kingdoms of life. In mammalian cells, localization of mRNAs has been documented and studied quite extensively in highly polarized cells, most notably in neurons, where localized mRNAs function to direct protein production at sites that are quite distant from the soma. Recent studies have strikingly revealed that a large proportion of the cellular transcriptome exhibits polarized distributions even in cells that lack an obvious need for long‐range transport, such as fibroblasts or epithelial cells. This review focuses on emerging concepts regarding the functional outcomes of mRNA targeting in the cytoplasm of such cells. We also discuss regulatory mechanisms controlling these events, with an emphasis on the role of cell mechanics and the organization of the cytoskeleton.

This article is categorized under:

Translation > Regulation

RNA Export and Localization > RNA Localization
Correction to: Accurate Graphic Symbol Detection in Ancient Document Digital Reproductions
Authors: Ziran Zahra , Bernasconi Eleonora , Ghignoli Antonella , Leotta Francesco , Mecella Massimo
Published: February 2022

Chapter “Accurate Graphic Symbol Detection in Ancient Document Digital Reproductions” was previously published non-open access. It has now been changed to open access under a CC BY 4.0 license and the copyright holder updated to ‘The Author(s)’.
Researching Values in Organisations and Leadership
Authors: Espedal Gry , Løvaas Beate Jelstad , Sirris Stephen , Wæraas Arild
Published: February 2022

Values are essential to understand but difficult to define. As any set of acts in everyday work is value-driven (Askeland et al., 2020), values can be understood as ‘that which is worth having, doing, and being (i.e., normative goods or “ends”)’ (Selznick, 1992, p. 60). However, if you ask organisational members to define their values or elaborate on their organisation’s values, they often have problems answering. If you ask them to define the values that are important to them on a personal level, their answers will most likely be quite divergent and not necessarily reflect their employer’s official core values.
Researchers’ Role Reflexivity When Studying Values Work
Authors: Sirris Stephen
Published: February 2022

Relevant to all research methods, reflexivity refers to an examination of the connections between the researchers and the research. It promotes transparency in research and is an indicator of the quality of the research process. Particularly important to qualitative studies, it concerns the researcher’s presence, interactions and impact on the research. This chapter conceptualises role reflexivity as researchers’ capacity to identify, account for and manage their roles. I argue and show through examples how role reflexivity is central to researching values work by examining three phases of data collection. Specifically, I consider reflexivity before data collection in terms of interest and self-presentation in claiming and establishing roles, during data collection in the form of performing and negotiating preferred and attributed roles, and after data collection in terms of interpreting role patterns.
Values at Work: Mapping the Field Through the Lens of Methodological Approaches
Authors: Løvaas Beate Jelstad
Published: February 2022

The aim of this chapter is to investigate how research on values in organisations is conducted by mapping the field through the lens of methodological approaches. Selecting suitable methods for a given research purpose or a specific research question is an essential skill for researchers. By linking aim and research question with design and methods, the chapter presents a brief overview of the quantitative and qualitative approaches that have been used to study explicit and implicit values in organisations. The ways in which these applied research methods have enabled or hindered our understanding of values at work are discussed. Mixed methods approaches are discussed as a possible avenue for future research on values in organisations.
Extending Knowledge, Improving Practice and Refining Values: Research Informed by the Concept of Phronesis
Authors: Eriksen Dag-Håkon , Strumińska-Kutra Marta
Published: February 2022

This chapter explores how the concept of phronesis (practical wisdom) promotes research that goes beyond the three traditional research goals—exploration, description and explanation—and aims at the improvement of practice, refinement of values and production of knowledge. When applied to research activity, the concept of practical wisdom opens up possibilities of realising co-development of theoretical knowledge, reflection over values and improvement of practice at the same time, constituting a type of values work. This chapter addresses how such research on values can be undertaken within organisations, with a special focus on reflection in groups. It also presents an example of a research study informed by phronesis.
Dilemmas and Craftsmanship Practices: Strategies for Empirically Uncovering Values and Value Conflicts
Authors: de Graaf Gjalt , Paanakker Hester
Published: February 2022

This chapter’s aim is to unearth values and value conflicts in the public realm. By elaborating two different and related research strategies that have successfully been adopted in different empirical studies, we describe how we can study these tricky things called values in their context. More specifically, the goal of this chapter is to uncover values and value conflicts through two (related) strategies: (1) by studying dilemmas and (2) by studying craftsmanship practices. To help readers understand the practicalities of these research strategies and support them in applying them themselves, we provide detailed tips, tricks and visualisations on data collection, data analysis and examples of research findings.
Thematic Analysis: Making Values Emerge from Texts
Authors: Wæraas Arild
Published: February 2022

This chapter explains how thematic analysis can be used to make values emerge from texts. Taking reflexive thematic analysis as its starting point, it begins by giving a general overview of the processes of coding and generating themes from codes. The chapter then presents three ways of generating themes from coded values: Grouping synonyms, grouping based on value type, and grouping based on semantic meaning. It also distinguishes between and gives examples of thematic coding of values at the explicit, implicit, and latent level. Overall, the chapter presents a five-step approach to thematic analysis of values: (1) assigning codes, (2) generating themes, and if possible (3) organizing themes, (4) identifying aggregate dimensions, and (5) making visual representations of codes and themes.
Introduction
Authors: Richardson John T. E.
Published: February 2022

This chapter describes the origins of serif and sans serif typefaces in ancient inscriptions and especially in those dating from ancient Rome. Serif inscriptions evolved during the Middle Ages and were used as the basis for the first printed typefaces. Sans serif inscriptions were used in England during the eighteenth century on monuments and public buildings. Both were increasingly used in printing from 1820 until the present day. This chapter also describes the application of systematic review to the issue of the legibility of serif and sans serif typefaces.
Reading and Comprehending Text
Authors: Richardson John T. E.
Published: February 2022

Research onreading text presented on computer screens has enabled investigators to use other forms of technology such as eye-tracking equipment. As with research on reading from paper, asking participants to read continuous text provides less opportunity for researchers to impose experimental control over their reading behaviour. Some researchers have instead focused on their participants’ comprehension of material. A particular device that has been investigated is the presentation of letters, words, or groups of words one at a time at the reader’s point of fixation. This was originally thought to compensate for the limitations of handheld devices. It has tended to be assumed that sans serif typefaces are more legible than serif typefaces when used on handheld devicesor smartphones. Finally, this chapter describes research on the connotations of different typefaces when presented on computer screens.
Reading Text in Internet Browsers
Authors: Richardson John T. E.
Published: February 2022

This chapter discusses whether serif and sans serif typefaces differ in their legibility when saved in HTML and viewed on-screen through web browsers. This includes material saved in a local workstation as well as material retrieved from the internet. In addition to a variety of individual studies, the chapter describes a research programme that was carried out by Bernard and colleagues at Wichita State University. Further research has been carried out into the use of different typefaces for various online purposes.
Coda: Lessons Learned
Authors: Richardson John T. E.
Published: February 2022

This end-piece considers lessons that can be learned from this review. Some researchers have put forward reasons why serifs might render typefaces more legible. Others have suggested that the presence or absence of serifs is a proxy for some other property of typefaces. In fact, there seems to be no difference in the legibility of serif typefaces and sans serif typefaces either when reading from paper or when reading from screens. The most important lesson is that assertions to the effect that “everybody knows” that such-and-such” should be regarded simply as conjectures that might be subject to refutation through carefully designed research.
Reading and Comprehending Text
Authors: Richardson John T. E.
Published: February 2022

Anumber of studies have evaluated the role of typographic variables (including the presence or absence of serifs) in reading continuous text. Asking participants to read continuous text allows less scope for experimental control, and so some researchers have instead focused on participants’ comprehension of written material. Subjective impressions of the legibility of different typefaces can be regarded as one aspect of their connotative meaning, and other researchers have asked participants to evaluate typefaces on different dimensions using single rating scales or semantic differentials. The chapter concludes by considering the role of such connotative variables in the legibility of text printed in different typefaces.
Reading in Context
Authors: Richardson John T. E.
Published: February 2022

It has been argued that the context of reading is a primary determinant of the legibility of different typefaces and the readers’ expectations of the legibility of what they are reading. Newspaper headlines have been used as a specific context in which researchers have studied the legibility and connotations of different kinds of text. Wheildon presented an extensive programme of research on the legibility of different kinds of text. However, his research has come under extensive criticism and suffers from further issues that have not been noted in previous research. Several researchers have subsequently considered the effect of variations in typefaces and the expectations of readers in different kinds of situations.
Constraining momentum space CFT correlators with consistent position space OPE limit and the collider bound
Authors: Jain Sachin , John Renjan Rajan , Mehta Abhishek , Dhruva K. S.
Published: February 2022

Abstract

Consistency with position space OPE limit requires three-point momentum space CFT correlators to have only total energy singularity. We show that this requirement gives a simple proof of the known result that in three dimensions the parity-odd structure cannot exist for three-point correlators of exactly conserved currents with spins si, sj, sk, when triangle inequality si ≤ sj + sk is violated. We also show that even for parity even correlation functions the properties are different inside and outside the triangle. It was previously shown that if we allow for weakly broken higher spin symmetry, parity-odd correlators can exist even when triangle inequality is violated. In this paper we establish a relation between non-conservation Ward-Takahashi (WT) identities for weakly broken currents at large N and the WT identities for exactly conserved currents with the help of a few examples. This allows us to calculate the parity violating results outside the triangle using parity-even free bosonic and free fermionic results.

In general, there is one parity-odd structure and two parity-even structures for three-point functions. It can be shown that the coefficient of one of the parity-even and odd parts can be combined into a complex parameter c when correlators are expressed in spinor-helicity variables. When this complex parameter takes real value c = ±1 it corresponds to either the free boson or free fermion theory. When c is a pure phase, it corresponds to Chern-Simons matter theories. Furthermore, re-expressing known results for conformal collider bounds we see that |c| ≤ 1 for generic 3d CFTs and |c| ≤ f(∆gap) for holographic CFTs.
On the continuum limit of the entanglement Hamiltonian of a sphere for the free massless scalar field
Authors: Javerzat Nina , Tonni Erik
Published: February 2022

Abstract

We study the continuum limit of the entanglement Hamiltonian of a sphere for the massless scalar field in its ground state by employing the lattice model defined through the discretisation of the radial direction. In two and three spatial dimensions and for small values of the total angular momentum, we find numerical results in agreement with the corresponding ones derived from the entanglement Hamiltonian predicted by conformal field theory. When the mass parameter in the lattice model is large enough, the dominant contributions come from the on-site and the nearest-neighbour terms, whose weight functions are straight lines.
Hamilton–Jacobi flows with nowhere differentiable initial data
Authors: Fujita Yasuhiro , Siconolfi Antonio , Yamaguchi Norikazu
Published: February 2022

We deal with a sort of inverse problem. Namely, we aim at deriving features of initial data of an Hamilton-Jacobi flow starting from specific assumptions on the flow. To this scope, we introduce a class of nowhere differentiable functions, and characterize a function in this class through a property of the Hamilton–Jacobi flow issued from this function. This analysis shows that, despite the regularizing effect of the flow, nowhere differentiability of initial data can be nevertheless detected looking at the flow for positive times.
Development and validation of a highly effective analytical method for the evaluation of the exposure of migratory birds to antibiotics and their metabolites by faeces analysis
Authors: Mejías Carmen , Martín Julia , Santos Juan Luis , Aparicio Irene , Sánchez Marta Isabel , Alonso Esteban
Published: February 2022

The widespread occurrence of antibiotics in the environment may exert a negative impact on wild organisms. In addition, they can become environmental reservoirs, through the ingestion of food or contaminated water, and vectors for antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This fact is even more important in migratory birds that can promote their dissemination across continents. In this work, a multiresidue analytical method suitable for the determination of five families of antibiotics and their main metabolites in waterbird faeces has been developed and validated. The target compounds include environmentally significant sulfonamides, macrolides, fluoroquinolones, tetracyclines and antifolates. Sample treatment involves ultrasound-assisted extraction with methanol and dispersive solid-phase extraction clean-up with C18. Analytical determination was carried out by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. The most significant parameters affecting sample extraction and extract clean-up were optimised by means of experimental designs. Good linearity (R2 > 0.994), accuracy (from 41 to 127%), precision (relative standard deviation lower than 24%) and limits of quantification (lower than 2 ng g−1 (dry weight, dw)) were obtained for most of the compounds. The method was applied to the determination of the selected compounds in 27 faeces samples from three common migratory waterbird species. Nine antibiotics and three of their metabolites were detected in the analysed samples. Fluoroquinolones and macrolides were the antibiotics most frequently detected. The highest concentrations corresponded to norfloxacin (up to 199 ng g−1 dw).

Graphical abstract
Belastungserleben pflegender Angehöriger während der Coronapandemie
Authors: Theurer Christina , Rother Doreen , Pfeiffer Klaus , Wilz Gabriele
Published: February 2022

Hintergrund

Bereits vor der Coronapandemie waren pflegende Angehörige mit einer Vielzahl an Herausforderungen und Belastungen konfrontiert. Erste Onlineerhebungen zeigten eine Zunahme der Pflegebelastung während der Pandemie. Ergänzend hierzu wurde eine Erhebung zu Auswirkungen der Pandemie auf bereits belastete pflegende Angehörige in Deutschland durchgeführt.

Methode

Im Rahmen einer Evaluationsstudie zu einem gestuften Beratungsansatz für hochbelastete pflegende Angehörige wurden von 165 Pflegenden quantitative und qualitative Daten zum Belastungserleben, zu Ängsten und Wünschen in der Coronapandemie bezüglich der Pflege erhoben. Die Auswertungen erfolgten deskriptiv und mittels qualitativer Inhaltsanalyse.

Ergebnisse

Von den Angehörigen gaben 26 % starke Ängste an, sich mit SARS-CoV‑2 zu infizieren, 50 % befürchteten, dass die gepflegte Person erkranken könnte. Die Hälfte berichtete deutliche Auswirkungen auf den Pflegealltag (47 %) und nahm eine deutliche Erhöhung der Pflegbelastung (51 %) wahr. Als häufigste negative Auswirkungen auf den Pflegealltag wurden der Ausfall von Pflegedienstleistungen und ein Mangel an Zeit für sich selbst genannt. Dementsprechend wurde am häufigsten der Wunsch nach Unterstützung geäußert. Der Pflegegrad, das Alter der Pflegenden und die vorherige Nutzung des Pflegedienstes erwiesen sich als Prädiktoren für das durch die Pflegenden eingeschätzte Belastungserleben der Erkrankten.

Diskussion

Die Ergebnisse verdeutlichen die negativen Auswirkungen der Coronapandemie auf die Belastung pflegender Angehöriger eindrücklich. Zur Bewältigung der komplexen Zusatzbelastungen benötigen Angehörige Angebote, die zu deren Teilhabechancen sowie zur Verbesserung der Versorgung und sozialen Teilhabe der Pflegebedürftigen während der Pandemie beitragen.
A unique case of death by MDPHP with no other co-ingestion: a forensic toxicology case
Authors: Di Candia Domenico , Boracchi Michele , Ciprandi Barbara , Giordano Gaia , Zoja Riccardo
Published: February 2022

Synthetic cathinones are a class of psychoactive drugs that have become, in recent years, of quite common observation in medical and toxicological forensic field. MDPHP (3,4-methylenedioxy-α-pyrrolidinohexanophenone) belongs to this class of substances but lethal acute intoxication caused by this specific substance without other co-ingestions has never been described in literature. We are presenting the unique case of a fatal acute intoxication caused by MDPHP in a 48-year-old man carried to the A&E department of a big Milanese hospital where he suddenly deceased after brief time. Clinical records, autopsy examination, histological findings, and toxicological analysis, assessed via a Q-Exactive Orbitrap with a HPLC system and LC/MS–MS system, are discussed. This case report may represent the first case of this type of intoxication and might help in improving recognition and treatment of these particular cases.
The repeatability of neuromuscular activation strategies recorded in recreationally active individuals during cycling
Authors: Cutler Hannah R. , Hodson-Tole Emma
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The human neuro-motor system can select different intermuscular coordination patterns to complete any given task, such as pedalling a bicycle. This study assessed whether intermuscular coordination patterns are used consistently across visit days and cadence conditions in recreationally active individuals.

Methods

Seven participants completed a cycling exercise protocol across 2 days, consisting of pedalling at 150 Watts at cadences of 60, 80 and 100 rpm. Whilst cycling, surface electromyography was continuously recorded from ten leg muscles. For each participant, muscle coordination patterns were established using principal component (PC) analysis and the amount that each pattern was used was quantified by the PC loading scores. A sample entropy derived measure of the persistence of the loading scores across consecutive pedal cycles, entropic half-life (EnHL), was calculated. The median loading scores and EnHLs of the first three PCs were then compared across cadence conditions and visit days.

Results

No significant differences were found in the median loading scores across cadence conditions or visits, nor were there any significant differences in the EnHLs across visits. However, the EnHLs were significantly longer when participants were cycling at 60 rpm compared to 100 rpm.

Conclusion

These findings are based on a small sample size, but do suggest that, within individual participants, a consistent neuromuscular control strategy is used during cycling on different days. However, the underlying structure of muscle coordination is more persistent when pedalling at slower cadences with large differences between individuals.
Subclinical cardiac dysfunction in pediatric kidney transplant recipients identified by speckle-tracking echocardiography
Authors: Bárczi Adrienn , Lakatos Bálint Károly , Szilágyi Mónika , Kis Éva , Cseprekál Orsolya , Fábián Alexandra , Kovács Attila , Szabó Attila J. , Merkely Béla , Salvi Paolo , Reusz György S.
Published: February 2022

Background

Kidney transplantation (KTx) improves prognosis in children with kidney failure; still, these patients are prone to cardiovascular damage due to multiple risk factors. Our aim was to assess myocardial structure and function in pediatric KTx by conventional and speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE) in association with established cardiovascular risk factors.

Methods

Forty-two KTx and 39 healthy age- and gender-matched children were evaluated. KTx recipients were further categorized according to the control of hypertension assessed by 24-h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM). Subjects underwent pulse wave velocity (PWV) measurement, conventional echocardiography, and 2-dimensional STE. Left and right ventricular (LV, RV) global longitudinal strain (GLS), and LV circumferential strain (GCS) were measured. Glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated according to the Schwartz formula.

Results

KTx patients had increased blood pressure and arterial stiffness. LV ejection fraction (EF) was preserved along with elevated LV mass index (LVMi) while LVGLS was significantly lower, whereas LVGCS and RVGLS were increased in KTx. Uncontrolled hypertensives had lower LVGLS compared to those with controlled hypertension. Using multiple forward stepwise regression analysis, 24-h SBP and relative wall thickness (RWT) were independent determinants of LVMi, whereas antihypertensive therapy, eGFR, and HOMA-IR were independent determinants of LVGLS.

Conclusions

Cardiac morphology and function show distinct changes after KTx. Along with comparable ventricular volumes, LV hypertrophy and subclinical myocardial dysfunction are present. Control of hypertension and kidney graft function are major factors of LV performance. STE may be useful to reveal early myocardial dysfunction in pediatric KTx.

Graphical abstract

A higher resolution version of the Graphical abstract is available as Supplementary information.
The fear of cancer recurrence and progression in patients with pancreatic cancer
Authors: Pijnappel Esther N. , Dijksterhuis Willemieke P. M. , Sprangers Mirjam A. G. , Augustinus Simone , de Vos-Geelen Judith , de Hingh Ignace H. J. T. , Molenaar Izaak Q. , Busch Olivier R. , Besselink Marc G. , Wilmink Johanna W. , van Laarhoven Hanneke W. M. ,   for the Dutch Pancreatic Cancer Group
Published: February 2022

Purpose

It is plausible that patients with pancreatic cancer experience fear of tumor recurrence or progression (FOP). The aim of this study was to compare FOP in patients with pancreatic cancer treated with surgical resection, palliative systemic treatment, or best supportive care (BSC) and analyze the association between quality of life (QoL) and FOP and the effect of FOP on overall survival (OS).

Methods

This study included patients diagnosed with pancreatic cancer between 2015 and 2018, who participated in the Dutch Pancreatic Cancer Project (PACAP). The association between QoL and WOPS was assessed with logistic regression analyses. OS was evaluated using Kaplan–Meier curves with the log-rank tests and multivariable Cox proportional hazard analyses adjusted for clinical covariates and QoL.

Results

Of 315 included patients, 111 patients underwent surgical resection, 138 received palliative systemic treatment, and 66 received BSC. Patients who underwent surgical resection had significantly lower WOPS scores (i.e., less FOP) at initial diagnosis compared to patients who received palliative systemic treatment or BSC only (P < 0.001). Better QoL was independently associated with the probability of having a low FOP in the BSC (OR 0.95, 95% CI 0.91–0.98) but not in the surgical resection (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.94–1.01) and palliative systemic treatment groups (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.94–1.00). The baseline WOPS score was not independently associated with OS in any of the subgroups.

Conclusion

Given the distress that FOP evokes, FOP should be explicitly addressed by health care providers when guiding pancreatic cancer patients through their treatment trajectory, especially those receiving palliative treatment or BSC.
Influence of Block form on the Shear Behaviour of Soft Soil–Rock Mixtures by 3D Block Modelling Approaches
Authors: Zhang Han , Boldini Daniela , Wang Lehua , Deng Huafeng , Liu Chang
Published: February 2022

The influence of block forms on the shear behaviour of soil–rock mixtures with soft blocks (soft S–RMs) can be efficiently investigated by the discrete element method (DEM) on the basis of accurate 3D models accounting for the block breakage. This paper proposes a novel modelling approach, based on the spherical harmonics series, for the generation of 3D block geometries with different forms but same convexity and angularity. An already existing non-overlapping modelling approach was improved, characterized by a reduced computational cost, for the set-up of 3D block DEM models accounting for the block breakage. A number of soft S–RM DEM samples, subjected to numerical direct shear tests, were generated to analyze the influence of block forms and volumetric block proportionVBPon the mesoscopic and macroscopic behaviours. The results showed that the breakage degree is maximum for the spheroidal blocks, followed by the oblate, prolate and blade ones, due to the combined influence of the block frictional sliding and rotation. The shear strength of soft S–RMs is mainly controlled by the block interlocking and breakage, being maximum in the case of spheroidal block samples when the applied normal stress is low and in the case of prolate and blade ones for a high normal stress. It was found that a nonlinear Mohr–Coulomb criterion can provide a good description of the shear strength envelope of soft S–RMs. Soft S–RMs are characterized by a higher friction angle if composed by spheroidal and prolate blocks when theVBPis 40%, due to their elevated block interlocking, and in the case of prolate and blade blocks when theVBPis 60% at the higher normal stress, due to their lower block breakage degree.
Decades-long phylogeographic issues: complex historical processes and ecological factors on genetic structure of alpine plants in the Japanese Archipelago
Authors: Ikeda Hajime
Published: February 2022

Mountain regions are important places for biodiversity, where organisms could persist throughout prolonged periods and accumulate genetic divergence as well as promote speciation. Roles of mountains for biodiversity have been exclusively discussed in regions that have specifically diverse species or covered with ice-sheets during the Pleistocene glacial periods, whereas the importance of mountainous regions in East Asia has been less disputed. High mountains in the Japanese Archipelago, located at the eastern edge of the Eurasia continent, have one of southernmost populations of alpine and arctic-alpine plants that are also distributed in the northern Pacific and/or the circumarctic regions. Phylogeographic studies on the Japanese alpine plants have excluded their possible ephemeral occurrence during the current warm period, and rather, suggest persistence of alpine plants throughout several cycles of climate changes in the Pleistocene on high mountains in central Honshu, the main island of the Japanese Archipelago. In this review, I look through decade long phylogeographic studies and show complicated patterns of range dynamics of Japanese alpine plants. In addition, I note recent findings of genetic relationships of Japanese populations of alpine and/or arctic-alpine plants with those in northern regions and their possible ecological divergence in the Japanese Archipelago. Taken together, I provide several issues for understanding historical processes that established distribution of alpine plants following climate changes as well as their diversification and propose importance of Japanese populations of alpine plants on biodiversity in alpine communities across broader range, especially in the northern Pacific region.
Adherence, Sexual Behavior and Sexually Transmitted Infections in a New Zealand Prospective PrEP Cohort: 12 Months Follow-up and Ethnic Disparities
Authors: Saxton Peter J. W. , Azariah Sunita , Cavadino Alana , Forster Rose F. , Jenkins Renee , Werder Suzanne F. , Southey Kim , Rich Joseph G.
Published: February 2022

Inequities in pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) experiences will impede HIV epidemic elimination among gay and bisexual men (GBM). Ethnicity is a strong marker of inequity in the United States, but evidence from other countries is lacking. We investigated experiences on-PrEP to 12 months follow-up in a prospective cohort of 150 GBM in Auckland, New Zealand with an equity quota of 50% non-Europeans. Retention at 12 months was 85.9%, lower among Māori/Pacific (75.6%) than non-Māori/Pacific participants (90.1%). Missed pills increased over time and were higher among Māori/Pacific. PrEP breaks increased, by 12 months 35.7% of Māori/Pacific and 15.7% of non-Māori/Pacific participants had done so. Condomless receptive anal intercourse partners were stable over time. STIs were common but chlamydia declined; 12-month incidence was 8.7% for syphilis, 36.0% gonorrhoea, 46.0% chlamydia, 44.7% rectal STI, 64.0% any STI. Structural interventions and delivery innovations are needed to ensure ethnic minority GBM gain equal benefit from PrEP.

Clinical trial numberACTRN12616001387415.
Distribution and potential impacts of non-native Chinese pond mussels Sinanodonta woodiana (Lea, 1834) in Bavaria, Germany
Authors: Dobler Andreas H. , Hoos Philipp , Geist Juergen
Published: February 2022

The Chinese pond mussel, Sinanodonta woodiana, is non-native to European freshwater systems. Originating from Asia, it was brought to Europe in the 1970s and is now spreading across many countries. Management of the species is currently limited by a lack of information on the actual distribution and population characterisation of S. woodiana as well as on the co-occurrence of native mussels potentially resulting in competition. For this paper, we examined nine water systems in the German federal state of Bavaria with randomly observed and anecdotally reported S. woodiana occurrences. We recorded the density and biomass of S. woodiana and of the co-existing mussel species as well as the habitat characteristics. We found S. woodiana in eight water systems, co-existing with other native and invasive mussel species in seven of them. The distribution of S. woodiana was geographically widespread throughout Bavaria, indicating great invasion potential. In one fish pond, S. woodiana was the only mussel species occurring with the highest mean biomass (1286.0 ± 1067.7 g m−2) and with the biggest specimen (25.0 cm and 1616.0 g). The wide range of habitat variables matched the expectation of a wide ecological niche for the species. This study provides evidence that S. woodiana has already become established in many water systems in Bavaria, with fish ponds and fisheries management practises being a likely vector. To counteract this species and to conserve native mussel species, it is important to implement effective legislation, to take measures to eradicate this invasive mussel transnationally, and to raise public awareness.
Popular extreme sea level metrics can better communicate impacts
Authors: Rasmussen D. J. , Kulp Scott , Kopp Robert E. , Oppenheimer Michael , Strauss Benjamin H.
Published: February 2022

Estimates of changes in the frequency or height of contemporary extreme sea levels (ESLs) under various climate change scenarios are often used by climate and sea level scientists to help communicate the physical basis for societal concern regarding sea level rise. Changes in ESLs (i.e., the hazard) are often represented using various metrics and indicators that, when anchored to salient impacts on human systems and the natural environment, provide useful information to policy makers, stakeholders, and the general public. While changes in hazards are often anchored to impacts at local scales, aggregate global summary metrics generally lack the context of local exposure and vulnerability that facilitates translating hazards into impacts. Contextualizing changes in hazards is also needed when communicating the timing of when projected ESL frequencies cross critical thresholds, such as the year in which ESLs higher than the design height benchmark of protective infrastructure (e.g., the 100-year water level) are expected to occur within the lifetime of that infrastructure. We present specific examples demonstrating the need for such contextualization using a simple flood exposure model, local sea level rise projections, and population exposure estimates for 414 global cities. We suggest regional and global climate assessment reports integrate global, regional, and local perspectives on coastal risk to address hazard, vulnerability and exposure simultaneously.
Mobile gaze tracking and an extended linkography for collaborative sketching and designing
Authors: Härkki Tellervo
Published: February 2022

The demand for teaching and learning collaborative design is probably greater than ever thanks to many influential parties highlighting creativity, collaboration and designing as necessary future skills. However, ‘good’ collaborative design necessitates a clear understanding of what constitutes ‘good’ and ‘collaboration’, and of how an individual’s activities contribute to a team achieving a satisfactory design solution. This research aimed to develop a methodological approach to facilitate the analysis of collaborative interaction and design as equally meaningful and closely linked components, and to equally account for verbal and sketching activities. The developed extended linkography accounts for verbal and sketched design moves and utilises mobile gaze-tracker data to confirm visual attention and linkages between sketches. The method has potential importance for research on design cognition and collaboration, but also for analysing collaborative problem solving in other contexts. To illustrate the method, a case study of packaging design students collaboratively designing a sustainable Christmas basket is presented. The gaze data revealed that students’ collaborative engagement with ‘shared’ sketches differed: from the two proposals selected for 3D mock-up-building, one was developed concertedly and one as an aside of the shared process. The latter development appeared to be independent, seeking little input from team members. All in all, three qualitatively different interactive design processes were identified, and quantitative levels of collaboration were measured through Convergent and Divergent Collaboration Indexes. To determine the role of sketches for each of the students’ designing, gaze data was indispensable.
The Impact of Resilience, Alexithymia and Subjectively Perceived Helplessness of Myocardial Infarction on the Risk of Posttraumatic Stress
Authors: Kirchner Kevin , Brauer Hartmut , Van der Auwera Sandra , Grabe Hans Jörgen
Published: February 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of resilience, alexithymia and the subjectively perceived severity (fear of death, pain intensity, helplessness) of myocardial infarction (MI) on posttraumatic symptom severity (PTSS) after MI. Patients were assessed with the Posttraumatic Diagnostic Scale (PDS), Resilience Scale (RS-11) and Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20). Subjectively perceived severity of MI was measured with three items on a 10-point Likert scale. To test our hypothesis, we applied Pearson correlations as well as multiple hierarchical linear regression analyses. A higher resilience score was significantly associated with lower (r =  − .39, p < .001) PTSS. Higher scores of alexithymia (r = .38, p < .01) and subjectively perceived helplessness (r = .42, p < .001) were associated with higher PTSS. Multiple hierarchical linear regression analyses revealed that resilience, the TAS-20 subscale difficulty identifying feelings (DIF) and especially subjectively perceived helplessness were independent significant predictors for the PTSS, adjusted R2 = .29, F(5, 102) = 9.57, p < .001. Our results suggest that resilience reduces the PTSS whereas alexithymia and subjectively perceived helplessness increase the risk. Especially the subjectively perceived helplessness explains a high degree of variance of PTSS and should be assessed to hindering further mental health burden.
An analysis of the parameterized complexity of periodic timetabling
Authors: Lindner Niels , Reisch Julian
Published: February 2022

Public transportation networks are typically operated with a periodic timetable. The periodic event scheduling problem (PESP) is the standard mathematical modeling tool for periodic timetabling. PESP is a computationally very challenging problem: For example, solving the instances of the benchmarking library PESPlib to optimality seems out of reach. Since PESP can be solved in linear time on trees, and the treewidth is a rather small graph parameter in the networks of the PESPlib, it is a natural question to ask whether there are polynomial-time algorithms for input networks of bounded treewidth, or even better, fixed-parameter tractable algorithms. We show that deciding the feasibility of a PESP instance is NP-hard even when the treewidth is 2, the branchwidth is 2, or the carvingwidth is 3. Analogous results hold for the optimization of reduced PESP instances, where the feasibility problem is trivial. Moreover, we show W[1]-hardness of the general feasibility problem with respect to treewidth, which means that we can most likely only accomplish pseudo-polynomial-time algorithms on input networks with bounded tree- or branchwidth. We present two such algorithms based on dynamic programming. We further analyze the parameterized complexity of PESP with bounded cyclomatic number, diameter, or vertex cover number. For event-activity networks with a special—but standard—structure, we give explicit and sharp bounds on the branchwidth in terms of the maximum degree and the carvingwidth of an underlying line network. Finally, we investigate several parameters on the smallest instance of the benchmarking library PESPlib.