bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Topology optimization using the lattice Boltzmann method for unsteady natural convection problems
Authors: Tanabe Yuta , Yaji Kentaro , Ushijima Kuniharu
Published: April 2023

This paper proposes a density-based topology optimization method for natural convection problems using the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM). As the LBM can be developed as a completely explicit scheme, its attractive features over the traditional ones, such as the finite element method, are (1) suitability for solving unsteady flow problems and (2) scalability for large-scale parallel computing. We develop an LBM code for solving unsteady natural convection problems and provide its sensitivity analysis based on the so-called adjoint lattice Boltzmann method. Notably, the adjoint equation is derived from the discrete particle velocity Boltzmann equation and can be solved similarly to the original LBM concerning unsteady natural convection problems. We first show that the proposed method can produce similar results to the previous work in a steady-state natural convection problem. We then demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed method through 2D numerical examples concerning unsteady natural convection. As a large-scale problem, we tackle a 3D unsteady natural convection problem on a parallel supercomputer. All the developed codes written in C++ are available at https://github.com/PANFACTORY/PANSLBM2.git.
Global and local components of output gaps
Authors: Eckert Florian , Mühlebach Nina
Published: April 2023

This paper proposes a multi-level dynamic factor model to identify common components in output gap estimates. We pool multiple estimates for 157 countries and decompose them into one global, eight regional, and 157 country-specific cycles. Our approach easily deals with mixed frequencies, ragged edges, and discontinuities in the underlying output gap estimates. To restrict the parameter space in the Bayesian state space model, we apply a stochastic search variable selection approach and base the prior inclusion probabilities on spatial information. Our results suggest that the global and the regional cycles explain a substantial proportion of the output gaps. On average, 18% of a country’s output gap is attributable to the global cycle, 24% to the regional cycle, and 58% to the local cycle.
The “Aberdeen Home Continence Stress Test”: a novel objective assessment tool for female stress urinary incontinence
Authors: Young Catriona , Cooper David , Mostafa Alyaa , Abdel-Fattah Mohamed
Published: April 2023

Introduction and hypothesis

Clinical trials for stress urinary incontinence (SUI) require a robust, reliable, and responsive tool for objective assessment of SUI post-intervention. The Aberdeen Home Continence Stress Test (HCST) is a novel patient-reported objective assessment tool, aimed to be patient-friendly and reduce attrition rates by avoiding hospital appointments and prolonged pad-wearing. We aim to describe the HCST for the first time and evaluate its reliability, diagnostic accuracy, and response to change.

Methods

A secondary analysis of the Single-Incision Mini-Slings (SIMS) study (a prospective multicentre randomised control trial (RCT) comparing two surgical treatments of SUI was performed. In SIMS (n = 600 women), the objective outcome was assessed by the 24-h pad test, while the patient-reported success rates were assessed using the Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I) at 15 months, 2 years and 3 years post-randomisation. Participants were instructed to perform the HCST before and after the 24-h pad test. The HCST was analysed in relation to reliability, validity, and the relationship between the 24-h pad test and HCST results and finally with regard to its responsiveness to change in PGI-I. (Trial registration-number ISRCTN93264234, registration date 14/01/2014).

Results

Compared to the 24-h pad test, the sensitivity of the HCST ranged from 0.81–0.95, specificity was 0.76–0.79, negative predictive value was 0.96–0.99 and positive predictive value was 0.32–0.43. Reliability was indicated by high-performing Cronbach’s alpha value (> 0.7). An improvement of ≥ 2 leakage groups on the HCST (for example from Large at baseline to Small leakage at follow-up) was strongly associated with patient-reported success on PGI-I (OR 4.38, 95% CI 2.31, 8.31).

Conclusions

The HCST is a valid and reliable patient-reported objective assessment tool that can be used for assessing SUI in surgical trials with good specificity, sensitivity, and consistency.
Real-world Imatinib Mesylate Treatment in Patients with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia: The Importance of Molecular Monitoring and the Early Molecular Response
Authors: Ferreira Amanda Pifano Soares , Seguro Fernanda Salles , Abdo Andre Ramires Neder , Santos Fernanda Maria , Maciel Felipe Vieira Rodrigues , Nardinelli Luciana , Giorgi Ricardo Rodrigues , Ruiz Antonio Roberto Lancha , Ferreira Milton Pifano Soares , Rego Eduardo Magalhaes , Rocha Vanderson , Bendit Israel
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a clonal myeloproliferative disorder characterized by the Philadelphia (Ph) chromosome. After the introduction of imatinib mesylate (IM) in 2000, the natural history of the disease changed. Data on the treatment of CML with IM are from randomized clinical trials. Establishing whether these results can be reproduced or if caution is needed when extrapolating data to the general population with CML is essential.

Objectives

To evaluate the molecular response (MR) in patients with chronic-phase CML (CML-CP) not included in clinical studies and correlate them with the responses obtained in clinical trials.

Methods

Between January 2007 and January 2017, 227 patients newly diagnosed with CML-CP treated with IM as first-line treatment were included. This study is an observational, retrospective, and single-center study.

Results

At a median follow-up time of 7.3 years, 60.3% of the 227 patients who started IM were still on IM. Early molecular response (EMR) at 3 and 6 months was achieved by 74.2% and 65%, respectively. The median time to a MMR was nine months. The MR4.0 and MR4.5 were 67.2% and 51.1%, respectively. The overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and event-free survival (EFS) of the patients who exclusively used IM were 91%, 91%, and 85.1%, respectively.

Conclusion

The results presented are similar to those described in prospective and randomized trials, demonstrating that the outcomes are reproducible in the real world. EMR at 3 and 6 months reflects better long-term responses, including higher rates of deeper molecular responses. Considering treatment costs, the absence of literature evidence of an impact on overall survival demonstrated by first-line second-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), and the global OS of 85.8%, imatinib mesylate (IM) is still an excellent therapeutic option.
Hydrodynamic and atmospheric drivers create distinct thermal environments within a coral reef atoll
Authors: Grimaldi C. M. , Lowe R. J. , Benthuysen J. A. , Cuttler M. V. W. , Green R. H. , Gilmour J. P.
Published: April 2023

Within coral reefs, different thermal environments can be found at locations separated by less than 100 s of meters and can generate fine-scale patterns of thermal stress and subsequent bleaching. In this study, we use an 11-month record of in situ temperature measurements, coupled with oceanographic and atmospheric data to examine the role of surface and advective heat fluxes in driving spatial patterns of temperature variability across several reef zones (i.e., fore-reef, reef flat, channel and lagoon) within an individual coral reef atoll. We show that advection of heat (driven by a combination of wave and tidal flows) was dominant across all sites and surface heating was more important across shallow areas or areas of low net exchange (i.e., reef flat and lagoon zones). Tidal flows were important in driving short term variability in the transport of heat across the atoll, but their contribution to the net transport of heat (cooling vs heating) was less significant over the longer timescales (days to weeks) that are typically used to assess thermal stress experienced by coral reef communities (e.g., Degree Heating Weeks). Conversely, although the wave-driven advection of heat contributed minimally to reef temperature changes over short timescales, the net transport of heat over daily to weekly timescales had a significant influence on persistent temperature anomalies. By parameterising the mechanisms driving temperature variability across the reef flat and lagoon zones, we demonstrate how satellite measurements of sea surface temperatures can be corrected to provide robust temperature estimates at the reef scale.
The microbiomes of two Singaporean corals show site-specific differentiation and variability that correlates with the seasonal monsoons
Authors: Deignan Lindsey K. , Pwa Keay Hoon , Loh Aaron An Rong , Rice Scott A. , McDougald Diane
Published: April 2023

Corals host abundant microbial communities, or microbiomes, that play essential roles in the function of the coral holobiont. We examined the mucus microbiome in corals within the port of Singapore, where corals persist despite intense anthropogenic impacts. The coral mucus microbiomes of Pectinia paeonia and Platygyra sinensis at three reef sites were tracked by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing from January 2019 to January 2020. Both coral species displayed spatial and temporal differences in microbiome composition, suggesting site specificity and seasonality in microbiome composition consistent with the monsoons. The temporal shifts in relative abundance of dominant taxa were different between the two coral species. Nonetheless, Proteobacteria was the most abundant phylum in both coral species and was reduced during the southwest (SW) monsoon, while Cyanobacteria and Crenarchaeota increased. The presumptive beneficial endosymbiont Endozoicomonas was only associated with corals at the reef site located the farthest from the Singapore mainland. The coral microbiomes reflected seasonal changes, while the seawater displayed distinct temporal microbial compositions and site-specific differentiation within all sampling dates. The persistence of coral reefs within the port of Singapore highlights the adaptive ability of corals to respond to stressful environments, and this study provides further evidence that a flexible microbiome could be an important part of the strategy employed by corals to remain resilient.
Crystal effects in the vibrational spectra of one-dimensional molecular spin crossover crystals using molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Herz Jakob , Meyer Robert , Wolny Juliusz A. , Schünemann Volker , Urbassek Herbert M.
Published: April 2023

We use molecular dynamics simulations to model the iron phonon density of states (pDOS) of a spin crossover (SCO) crystal built from 39-nuclear [Fe(atrz)$$_3$$3Cl$$_2$$2] chains (atrz = 4-amino-1,2,4-triazole). This is possible by using an atomistic potential that depends on the spin state of the Fe atoms. While quantum-chemical methods are able to provide data on isolated SCO molecules, the computational costs necessitate the use of classical simulations to calculate crystal effects on the spectra. Data are provided for a high-spin (HS) crystal, in which all Fe atoms are in their HS state, and a low-spin (LS) crystal. HS and LS crystals show distinctively different spectra that are in agreement with experimental data. Compared to the single-molecule spectra, the crystal spectra show several distinctive features: (i) The spectra are smoother, and the main peaks are slightly reduced in amplitude. (ii) The effect of intermolecular interactions shows up in additional structure at long-wavelengths. Good agreement between experimental and simulated phonon spectra is observed. The lattice-dynamics analysis of the low-energy pDOS allows to extract the temperature dependence of the vibrational entropy of the LS and HS crystals. Our study thus provides novel information about the crystal effects in SCO crystals.
Fabrication and characterization of tapered photonic crystal fiber for broadband 2 µm: four-wave mixing-based fibered OPCPA
Authors: Ahmedou Sidi-Ely , Walter Guillaume , Herbuvaux Jules , Dauliat Romain , Février Sébastien , Petit Stéphane , Valentin Constance , Marion Denis , Lhermite Jérôme , Labonté Laurent , Tanzilli Sébastien , Gérôme Frédéric , Debord Benoit , Benabid Fetah , Leconte Baptiste , Millot Guy , Roy Phillipe , Jamier Raphaël , Delagnes Jean-Christophe
Published: April 2023

We present the simulation, fabrication, and characterization of large area microstructured fiber tapers which enables broadband phasematching conditions of the four wave-mixing process. These silica-based tapers are intended to serve as a nonlinear gain medium for intense and high average power Fiber Optical Parametric Chirped Pulse Amplifier emitting at 2 $$\upmu \hbox {m}$$

μ
m

and strongly pumped at Yb wavelength. Different geometries (tapered/untapered, aspect ratio, etc.) are fabricated, analyzed and their broadening properties—key for supporting ultrashort pulses amplification—are compared and discussed. The characterization of nonlinear gain bandwidth of the tapers relies on a tunable source of stochastic pulses based on tunable amplified spontaneous emission in Yb-doped amplifiers. The strong overshoots of this source allows degenerate four-wave mixing process to occur thus generating broadband incoherent visible signal and mid-infrared idler waves at much lower average power than usually needed with coherent pumping. The idler centered around 1.85 $$\mu$$
μ
m is broadened due to zero-dispersion wavelength shift along the taper.
Epidemiology, outcomes, and prognostic factors in submandibular gland carcinomas: a national DAHANCA study
Authors: Westergaard-Nielsen Marie , Godballe Christian , Eriksen Jesper Grau , Larsen Stine Rosenkilde , Kiss Katalin , Agander Tina , Ulhøi Benedicte Parm , Charabi Birgitte Wittenborg , Klug Tejs Ehlers , Jacobsen Henrik , Johansen Jørgen , Kristensen Claus Andrup , Andersen Elo , Andersen Maria , Bjørndal Kristine
Published: April 2023

Purpose

The aim of this study is to present incidence, histological subtypes, survival rates, and prognostic factors based on a national cohort of patients with salivary gland carcinoma.

Methods

All Danish patients with submandibular gland carcinoma diagnosed from 1990 to 2015 (n = 206) were included and analyzed following histological re-evaluation. Data were collected by the Danish Head and Neck Cancer Group (DAHANCA). Overall, disease-specific and recurrence-free survival were evaluated. Prognostic factors were analyzed with multivariate Cox Hazard Regression.

Results

The study population consisted of 109 (53%) men and 97 (47%) women, median age 62 years (range 11–102). Adenoid cystic carcinoma was the most frequent subtype (50%). Tumour classification T1/T2 (75%) and N0 (78%) was most frequent. The mean crude incidence was 0.17/100,000/year. Most patients (n = 194, 94%) were treated with primary surgery, and 130 (67%) received postoperative radiotherapy. The 5- and 10-year survival rates were for overall survival 64% and 41%, disease-specific survival 74% and 61%, and recurrence-free survival 70% and 56%, respectively. Survival rates were higher for adenoid cystic carcinoma compared to other subtypes, but the difference was not significant in multivariate analysis. Recurrence occurred in 69 patients, and 37 (53.6%) of them had recurrence in a distant site. Advanced T-classification and regional lymph-node metastases had significant negative impact on survival rates.

Conclusion

The incidence of submandibular gland carcinoma in Denmark was 0.17/100,000/year and stable during the time period. The most frequent subtype was adenoid cystic carcinoma. Half of the recurrences presented in a distant site, and multivariate analysis confirmed that advanced stage was independent negative prognostic factor for recurrence and survival.
Gender differences in microRNA expression in levodopa-naive PD patients
Authors: Vallelunga A. , Iannitti T. , Somma G. , Russillo M. C. , Picillo M. , De Micco R. , Vacca L. , Cilia R. , Cicero C. E. , Zangaglia R. , Lazzeri G. , Galantucci S. , Radicati F. G. , De Rosa A. , Amboni M. , Scaglione C. , Tessitore A. , Stocchi F. , Eleopra R. , Nicoletti A. , Pacchetti C. , Di Fonzo A. , Volontè M. A. , Barone P. , Pellecchia M. T.
Published: April 2023

Gender is an important factor influencing epidemiological and clinical features of Parkinson’s disease (PD). We aimed to evaluate gender differences in the expression of a panel of miRNAs (miR-34a-5p, miR-146a, miR-155, miR-29a, miR-106a) possibly involved in the pathophysiology or progression of disease. Serum samples were obtained from 104 PD patients (58 men and 46 women) never treated with levodopa. We measured levels of miRNAs using quantitative PCR. Correlations between miRNA expression and clinical data were assessed using the Spearman’s correlation test. We used STRING to evaluate co-expression relationship among target genes. MiR-34a-5p was significantly upregulated in PD male patients compared to PD female patients (fc: 1.62; p < 0.0001). No correlation was found with age, BMI, and disease severity, assessed by UPDRS III scale, in male and female patients. MiR-146a-5p was significantly upregulated in female as compared to male patients (fc: 3.44; p < 0.0001) and a significant correlation was also observed between disease duration and mir-146a-5p. No differences were found in the expression of miR-29a, miR-106a-5p and miR-155 between genders. Predicted target genes for miR-34a-5p and miR-146-5p and protein interactions in biological processes were reported. Our study supports the hypothesis that there are gender-specific differences in serum miRNAs expression in PD patients. Follow-up of this cohort is needed to understand if these differences may affect disease progression and response to treatment.
Big data in contemporary electron microscopy: challenges and opportunities in data transfer, compute and management
Authors: Poger David , Yen Lisa , Braet Filip
Published: April 2023

The second decade of the twenty-first century witnessed a new challenge in the handling of microscopy data. Big data, data deluge, large data, data compliance, data analytics, data integrity, data interoperability, data retention and data lifecycle are terms that have introduced themselves to the electron microscopy sciences. This is largely attributed to the booming development of new microscopy hardware tools. As a result, large digital image files with an average size of one terabyte within one single acquisition session is not uncommon nowadays, especially in the field of cryogenic electron microscopy. This brings along numerous challenges in data transfer, compute and management. In this review, we will discuss in detail the current state of international knowledge on big data in contemporary electron microscopy and how big data can be transferred, computed and managed efficiently and sustainably. Workflows, solutions, approaches and suggestions will be provided, with the example of the latest experiences in Australia. Finally, important principles such as data integrity, data lifetime and the FAIR and CARE principles will be considered.
Surgery for primary hyperparathyroidism in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria: an analysis of data from the EUROCRINE registry
Authors: Hargitai L. , Clerici T. , Musholt T. J. , Riss P. ,   on behalf of the EUROCRINE council
Published: April 2023

Purpose

EUROCRINE is an endocrine surgical register documenting diagnostic processes, indication for surgical treatment, surgical procedures, and outcomes. The purpose was to analyse data for PHPT in German speaking countries regarding differences in clinical presentation, diagnostic workup, and treatment.

Methods

All operations for PHPT performed from 07/2015 to 12/2019 were analysed.

Results

Three thousand two hundred ninety-one patients in Germany (9 centres; 1762 patients), Switzerland (16 centres; 971 patients) and Austria (5 centres; 558 patients) were analysed. Hereditary disease was seen in 36 patients in Germany, 16 patients in Switzerland and 8 patients in Austria. In sporadic disease before primary operation, PET-CT showed the highest sensitivity in all countries. In re-operations, CT and PET-CT achieved the highest sensitivities. The highest sensitivity of IOPTH was seen in Austria (98.1%), followed by Germany (96.4%) and Switzerland (91.3%). Operation methods and mean operative time reached statistical significance (p<0.05). Complication rates are low. Overall, 656 (19.9%) patients were asymptomatic; the remainder showed bone manifestations, kidney stones, fatigue and/or neuropsychiatric symptoms.

Conclusion

Early postoperative normocalcaemia ranged between 96.8 and 97.1%. Complication rates are low. PET-CT had the highest sensitivity in all three countries in patients undergoing primary operation as well as in Switzerland and Austria in patients undergoing re-operation. PET-CT could be considered a first-line preoperative imaging modality in patients with inconclusive ultrasound examination. The EUROCRINE registry is a beneficial and comprehensive data source for outcome analysis of endocrine procedures on a supranational level.
Periderm differentiation: a cellular and molecular approach to cork oak
Authors: Faustino Ana , Pires Rita Costa , Marum Liliana
Published: April 2023

Cork oak is a unique species with the ability to produce a continuous and renewable cork throughout its lifespan. Periderm is a protective tissue composed of the phellem, phellogen, and phelloderm that replaces the epidermis. Phellem or “cork”, the outermost layer, is produced by the original phellogen, a secondary meristem originated from the dedifferentiation of mature parenchyma cells. The formation and differentiation of periderm have been widely studied demonstrating the importance of fatty acid biosynthesis, phenylpropanoid, and metabolism of suberin, a complex glycerol-based polymer and the principal component of phellem. The contributions of several areas reveal new clues concerning the molecular mechanisms behind periderm differentiation. However, the whole process is still poorly understood. In this review, we compile information regarding the cellular structure and molecular basis, including the regulatory network of periderm formation and differentiation, focusing on the cork oak. The cork quality and its genetic and epigenetic mechanisms are also explored, highlighting the importance of molecular regulation in such economically important species. An increased understanding of the all periderm differentiation process may serve as a basis for future studies on functional genomics with an impact on fundamental science and on the forest industry for the production of high-quality cork.
Inklusionsarbeit der School Nurse
Authors: Kocks Andreas
Published: April 2023

Im Lebensraum Schule sind Gesundheit und Krankheit wichtige Determinanten des Zusammenlebens. Insbesondere Kinder mit chronischen Krankheiten, immerhin etwa 20 %, stellen das derzeitige Schulsystem, die Kinder und ihre Familien vor große Herausforderungen. Psychische, psychosomatische, allergologische, endokrinologische, neurologische, kardiale Erkrankungen, Stoffwechselerkrankungen, Sinnesbeeinträchtigungen und andere gesundheitliche Probleme sind häufig Hindernisse für den regulären Schulbesuch oder gestalten diesen zumindest risikoreich. School Nurses haben in anderen Ländern (z. B. USA, England, Frankreich, die skandinavischen Länder und weitere) eine lange Tradition; in Österreich sind sie auf wenige Privatschulen und Modellprojekte begrenzt. School Nurses sind nicht nur primäre Ansprechpartner in Gesundheitsfragen; sie managen kleine und größere Gesundheitsprobleme, vermitteln zwischen Kindern, Eltern und Lehrkörper, wirken aufklärend und tröstend und vermitteln auch gesunde Lebensführung. Insbesondere unter dem Aspekt des inklusiven Unterrichts sind sie für die Schulzukunft unverzichtbar.
Schulen der Zukunft im Licht moderater Skepsis
Authors: Quesel Carsten
Published: April 2023

Das Nordwestschweizer Bildungsdelphi versucht, bis 2023 Grundlagen für eine Neuorientierung der Schulentwicklung in den nächsten zwei Jahrzehnten durch einen Dialog von Schule, Hochschule, Blidungsverwaltung, Politik und Wirtschaft zu entwickeln. Der Zwischenbericht beleuchtet die bisherigen Ergebnisse selbstkritisch mit Rücksicht auf eine beschränkte Voraussagekraft sozialwissenschaftlicher Daten, die Kontingenz zeitdiagnostischer Vokabulare und die Risiken kollektiver Wahrnehmungsverzerrung.
Recovery of catalytic metals from leaching solutions of spent automotive catalytic converters using plant extracts
Authors: Nobahar Amir , Carlier Jorge Dias , Costa Maria Clara
Published: April 2023

This study investigates the potential of hydroalcoholic extracts of Cistus ladanifer L., Erica Andevalensis and Rubus idaeus L. as a green method for the recovery of platinum group metals (PGMs) from both synthetic unimetallic solutions and multimetallic solutions obtained from the leaching of two different spent automotive catalytic converters (SACC). Experiments with unimetallic solutions revealed that E. andevalensis and R. idaeus extracts could separate about 70% of Pd and less than 40% of other tested metals (Al, Ce, Fe and Pt) from the solutions. Then, application of the plant extracts to two different SACCs leachates showed that E. andevalensis and R. idaeus extracts can induce high precipitation (> 60%) of Pd and Pt with co-precipitation of less than 20% of other metals. UV–Visible spectra analysis confirmed the bio-reduction of Pd2+ ions into Pd0 nanoparticles by R. idaeus extract, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis revealed the contribution of functional groups of the phytochemicals present in the extract (such as phenols, flavonoids and anthocyanins) in the Pd2+ bio-reduction and stabilization. Afterward, scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM–EDX) analysis of the precipitate obtained from one leachate with R. idaeus extract demonstrated the presence of Pd particles along with organic compounds and particles containing other metals. Therefore, particles were subjected to a washing step with acetone for further purification. Finally, scanning transmission electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (STEM-EDX) analysis showed the high purity of the final Pd particles and high-resolution STEM allowed to determine their size variation of 2.5 to 17 nm with an average Feret size of 6.1 nm and confirmed their crystalline structure with an interplanar lattice distance of ~ 0.22 nm. This green approach offers various benefits including simplicity of Pd separation from the leachates as valuable nanoparticles that makes the process more feasible from economic and environmental standpoints. A process cost of ~ 20 $/g of Pd particles recovered was estimated (excluding manpower).

Graphical abstract
Characterization and pathogenicity of multidrug-resistant coagulase-negative Staphylococci isolates in chickens
Authors: Sorour Hend K. , Shalaby Azhar G. , Abdelmagid Marwa A. , Hosny Reham A.
Published: April 2023

The pathogenic potential of vancomycin and methicillin-resistant coagulase-negative Staphylococci (VMRCoNS) on Egyptian poultry farms has received little attention. Therefore, this study aims to study the prevalence of CoNS in imported poultry flocks and commercial poultry farms, evaluate the presence of virulence and antibiotic resistance genes (sea, seb, sec, sed, see, and mecA), and assess their pathogenicity in broiler chicks. Seven species were identified among 25 isolates, such as 8 S. gallinarum, 5 S. saprophyticus, 5 S. chromogens, 3 S. warneri, 2 S. hominis, 1 S. caprae, and 1 S. epidermidis. All isolates were resistant to clindamycin, doxycycline, vancomycin, methicillin, rifampicin, and penicillin. The mecA gene was confirmed in 14 isolates, while the sed gene was revealed in seven isolates. Commercial 1-day-old Ross broiler chicks were divided into eight groups of three replicates (10 birds/group): group Ӏ was negative control; groups (П, Ш, IV, V, VI, VII, and VIII) were subcutaneously inoculated with 108 CFUml−1 of S. hominis, S. caprae, S. epidermidis, S. gallinarum, S. chromogens, S. warneri, and S. saprophyticus, respectively. Groups VIII and V had mortality rates of 100% and 20%, respectively, with no evidence of mortalities in the other groups. The highest re-isolation of CoNS species was recorded in groups VII, VIII, and V. Postmortem and histopathological examination revealed the common presence of polyserositis in the internal organs, and hepatic and myocardial necrosis in groups IV, V, and VI. These findings revealed the pathogenic potential of CoNS, so special attention must be directed toward their public health impact.
Diagnosing virtual patients: the interplay between knowledge and diagnostic activities
Authors: Fink Maximilian C. , Heitzmann Nicole , Reitmeier Victoria , Siebeck Matthias , Fischer Frank , Fischer Martin R.
Published: April 2023

Clinical reasoning theories agree that knowledge and the diagnostic process are associated with diagnostic success. However, the exact contributions of these components of clinical reasoning to diagnostic success remain unclear. This is particularly the case when operationalizing the diagnostic process with diagnostic activities (i.e., teachable practices that generate knowledge). Therefore, we conducted a study investigating to what extent knowledge and diagnostic activities uniquely explain variance in diagnostic success with virtual patients among medical students. The sample consisted of N = 106 medical students in their third to fifth year of university studies in Germany (6-years curriculum). Participants completed professional knowledge tests before diagnosing virtual patients. Diagnostic success with the virtual patients was assessed with diagnostic accuracy as well as a comprehensive diagnostic score to answer the call for more extensive measurement of clinical reasoning outcomes. The three diagnostic activities hypothesis generation, evidence generation, and evidence evaluation were tracked. Professional knowledge predicted performance in terms of the comprehensive diagnostic score and displayed a small association with diagnostic accuracy. Diagnostic activities predicted comprehensive diagnostic score and diagnostic accuracy. Hierarchical regressions showed that the diagnostic activities made a unique contribution to diagnostic success, even when knowledge was taken into account. Our results support the argument that the diagnostic process is more than an embodiment of knowledge and explains variance in diagnostic success over and above knowledge. We discuss possible mechanisms explaining this finding.
Population structure and genetic variance among local populations of a non-native earthworm species in Minnesota, USA
Authors: Heimburger Bastian , Klein Andreas , Roth Alexander , Scheu Stefan , Eisenhauer Nico , Schaefer Ina
Published: April 2023

A variety of human activities have been identified as driving factors for the release and spread of invasive earthworm species in North America. Population genetic markers can help to identify locally relevant anthropogenic vectors and provide insights into the processes of population dispersal and establishment. We sampled the invasive European earthworm speciesLumbricus terrestrisat nine sites and several bait shops within the metropolitan area of Minneapolis-St. Paul in Minnesota, USA. We used microsatellite markers to infer genetic diversity and population structure, and 16S rDNA to address multiple introduction events, including bait dumping, which is a common source ofL. terrestrisintroductions into the wild. Our results indicate multiple introductions but not from current bait dumping. Overall, genetic structure was low and earthworms > 5,000 m apart were genetically differentiated, except for one sampling location, indicating jump-dispersal followed by population establishment. Further, earthworms at one location north of Minneapolis established from one or few founder individuals, suggesting that earthworm invasions are ongoing. We therefore encourage further monitoring of earthworm populations using molecular markers, in order to disentangle the different human-related vectors contributing to the spread of earthworms and their establishment, which is essential to develop adequate management strategies.
Highly hydrophobic and moisture barrier nanocellulose based films produced via spray deposition
Authors: Nadeem Humayun , Dehghani Mostafa , Miri Simin , Pazirofteh Mahdieh , Garnier Gil , Batchelor Warren
Published: April 2023

Nanocellulose (NC) films are gaining popularity in recent years owing to their recyclability and biodegradability; however, the commercialization of this material is limited by environmental and moisture barrier constraints. The incorporation of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) with NC significantly improved the barrier performance but the resultant films were quite hydrophilic and hence completely disintegrated in water. The aim of this study is to produce hydrophobic NC/CMC films without compromising their barrier characteristics. For this purpose, the optimized content of alkyl ketene dimer (AKD) was spray-deposited on the fully and partially dried NC/CMC films and their hydrophobic, barrier and mechanical properties were assessed. The deposition of AKD has improved the hydrophobicity and flexibility while maintaining the barrier properties of the films. However, their tensile index values decreased by 26–29% as compared with the neat NC/CMC films, but the values remained in acceptable range. Additionally, the partially dried spray deposited AKD-NC/CMC films have shown superior results as they showed higher hydrophobicity (θ = 127° ± 3), while lower percentage of mass loss after immersion for 48 h in water (15%) as compared with the fully dried spray deposited AKD-NC/CMC films.

Graphical abstract
Multimodal Remote Research on Social Anxiety Using a New Teleconferencing Paradigm
Authors: Rubin Mikael , Gebhardt Eli S. , Malloy Luna , Telch Michael J.
Published: April 2023

Background

Social anxiety is a prevalent mental health concern. Models of social anxiety incorporate multifaceted components from cognitive appraisals to attention as factors maintaining the disorder. Multimodal research investigating multiple facets of social anxiety simultaneously offers an important avenue to advance our understanding of the disorder.

Methods

The current study tested a novel, internet-based simulated teleconferencing interaction social stressor challenge and included the collection of self-report, eye-tracking, and auditory vocal data during the challenge. Participants (N = 262) completed two interactions. The pre-recorded male and female audience members (assigned to display interest or uninterest) discussed a topic and then prompted the participant to speak on that topic.

Results

Fidelity indices revealed that most participants rated the interactions with the simulated audience as realistic; reported heightened subjective distress during the simulated teleconferencing interactions; and correctly rated audience members’ level of interest. As predicted, social anxiety predicted participants’ subjective distress during the simulated teleconferencing interactions. Findings from audio vocal and eye tracking analyses largely corresponded to prior research – indicating that social anxiety influences audio vocal responses and patterns of attention during social stressors.

Conclusions

Taken together, these findings suggest that the simulated teleconferencing interaction framework introduced here offers a potentially useful approach for the remote investigation of mechanisms underpinning social anxiety.
Teachers’ Knowledge of Fractions, Ratios, and Proportional Relationships: the Relationship Between Two Theoretically Connected Content Areas
Authors: Ezaki John , Li Jingxian , Copur-Gencturk Yasemin
Published: April 2023

Teachers’ knowledge of the subject matter is considered an important component of their expertise in teaching mathematics. Yet how teachers’ understanding of one content area is related to other content areas has not been investigated in depth. We explored this question by investigating teachers’ knowledge of two theoretically related areas: (1) fractions and (2) ratios and proportional relationships. We also investigated the extent to which teachers’ educational backgrounds are related to their understanding of these concepts. Based on the results obtained from structural equation modeling and path analysis, we found that teachers’ knowledge of these two concepts is highly interdependent, forming a single construct. Furthermore, holding a credential in teaching mathematics, the route teachers took to enter teaching, and their undergraduate majors were associated with their knowledge of these concepts. This study illustrates the importance of attending to the theoretical relationships among different content areas when assessing teachers’ subject matter knowledge and provides initial evidence that teachers’ subject matter knowledge may be unidimensional for theoretically related domains.
Analysis of the effects of BP-3 and BP-4 on the transcriptome of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii: An RNA-Seq approach
Authors: Esperanza Marta , Blanes-Rodríguez Manuel , Cid Ángeles , Seoane Marta
Published: April 2023

Benzophenones (BPs) are one of the most widely used UV-filters and previous flow cytometric studies have shown that these aquatic emerging pollutants alter the physiology of the freshwater microalgaChlamydomonas reinhardtii. In order to obtain a more detailed study of the different cellular metabolic pathways affected, changes caused by BPs in the transcriptome ofC. reinhardtiiwere investigated using RNA-Seq analysis after 24 h of exposure. Each benzophenone at its corresponding 96 h-EC50value for growth provoked alterations in the gene expression of this microalga, although BP-3-exposed cells showed a higher number of differentially expressed genes than cells exposed to BP-4. GO enrichment analyses suggested that both compounds affected the same cellular metabolic pathways. Transcripts encoding for light-harvesting and chlorophyll-binding proteins were highly reduced. In addition, an overexpression of genes related to amino acid catabolism was also detected, suggesting thatC. reinhardtiicells oxidize amino acids to obtain energy when photosynthesis was damaged by the pollutants. Regarding the oxidative damage provoked by the contaminants, genes encoding main antioxidant enzymes and involved in glutathione-associated metabolism were upregulated. Moreover, sulphur metabolism could have some relevance to explain the mechanism of action of BP-4 and its lower toxicity on microalgae, since the sulfonic acid group is the major structural difference between both BPs. Obtained results suggest that photosynthesis was impaired on cells exposed to the UV-filters, leading microalgae to obtain energy via a heterotrophic metabolism to survive. Thus, the occurrence of these sunscreens in freshwater ecosystems could trigger a worrying reduction in global CO2fixation.
Process monitoring and machine learning for defect detection in laser-based metal additive manufacturing
Authors: Herzog T. , Brandt M. , Trinchi A. , Sola A. , Molotnikov A.
Published: April 2023

Over the past several decades, metal Additive Manufacturing (AM) has transitioned from a rapid prototyping method to a viable manufacturing tool. AM technologies can produce parts on-demand, repair damaged components, and provide an increased freedom of design not previously attainable by traditional manufacturing techniques. The increasing maturation of metal AM is attracting high-value industries to directly produce components for use in aerospace, automotive, biomedical, and energy fields. Two leading processes for metal part production are Powder Bed Fusion with laser beam (PBF-LB/M) and Directed Energy Deposition with laser beam (DED-LB/M). Despite the many advances made with these technologies, the highly dynamic nature of the process frequently results in the formation of defects. These technologies are also notoriously difficult to control, and the existing machines do not offer closed loop control. In the present work, the application of various Machine Learning (ML) approaches and in-situ monitoring technologies for the purpose of defect detection are reviewed. The potential of these methods for enabling process control implementation is discussed. We provide a critical review of trends in the usage of data structures and ML algorithms and compare the capabilities of different sensing technologies and their application to monitoring tasks in laser metal AM. The future direction of this field is then discussed, and recommendations for further research are provided.

Graphical abstract
Spectroscopic and electrical analysis of p–Si/n-ZnSxSe1−x (0.0 ≤ x ≤ 1.0) heterostructures for photodetector applications
Authors: Moger Sahana Nagappa , Mahesha M. G.
Published: April 2023

The present paper focuses on the properties of the p–Si/ ZnSxSe1−x (0 ≤ x ≤ 1) heterojunctions in photodetector applications. The heterostructures were fabricated by depositing ZnSSe on Si wafer using the thermal co-evaporation technique with ZnS and ZnSe powders. The GIXRD study showed that films were in cubic phase, and the prominent peak was shifted with composition x. The maximum crystallite size of the films was found for x = 0.8. The presence of point defects and emission related to higher Zn content in the thin films was confirmed by Photoluminescence. Temperature-dependent Raman analysis reveals that the longitudinal optical phonon modes shift to the lower wavenumber side as temperature decreases, which describes the variation of lattice parameters with temperature. The barrier height and ideality factor were calculated by implementing the thermionic emission. The photoresponse of p–Si/ ZnSxSe1−x heterostructures was studied. The investigation showed that the sample with x = 0.8 exhibits high photosensitivity and is suitable for photodetector applications.
Time-course of heart rate variability after total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Frandsen Mikkel Nicklas , Varnum Claus , Foss Nicolai Bang , Mehlsen Jesper , Kehlet Henrik
Published: April 2023

Heart rate variability (HRV) is a measure of the autonomic nervous system function and possibly related to postoperative outcome. Despite several HRV studies in different surgical settings, optimal indices and timepoints for measuring have not been adequately determined. Consequently, there is a need for detailed descriptive procedure-specific studies on the time-course of perioperative HRV within a modern fast-track surgical setting. We measured HRV continuously in 24 patients from 4 days before until 9 days after total hip arthroplasty (THA). Statistical methods included mainly ANOVA and t-tests or Kruskal–Wallis and pairwise Wilcoxon test. Patients completed the Orthostatic Discriminant and Severity Scale five times during the study describing autonomic nervous system dysfunction. Standard deviation between normal-to-normal beats and the total power of HRV were reduced for at least 9 days following THA, with a trend towards increased HRV leading up to the day of surgery. The balance between low- and high-frequency power of HRV was reduced in the postoperative evenings. There was increased orthostatic intolerance symptoms on the first postoperative day, with symptoms of pain, fatigue and weakness decreasing after the first postoperative day. Median hospital stay was 1 day. We provide the first detailed description of perioperative time-course of HRV and orthostatic symptoms in fast-track THA, showing reduced HRV after surgery for at least a week, and that HRV changes are sensitive to time of day and timing before and after surgery. These results are helpful in designing future HRV studies in perioperative risk assessment and outcome.
Well-Being and Income Across Space and Time: Evidence from One Million Households
Authors: Smith Michael D. , Wesselbaum Dennis
Published: April 2023

This paper provides an overview of the global trends and driving forces of well-being and income. We extend the literature by examining inequality in both variables, since average well-being and income measures can obscure important disparities in people’s lives. We use data from the Gallup World Poll for nine years (2009–2017) and 158 countries (N = 1,437,897). Our analysis proceeds in two steps. First, we present country-level panel evidence. Second, we estimate microeconometric regressions to reveal the individual-level drivers of well-being and income. We find that the mean of well-being and income by development group varies little over time, while inequality in these two variables change significantly. We find no evidence of the Easterlin paradox after controlling for income inequality and show that income growth reduces well-being inequality. Further, drivers of mean and inequality in well-being and income are similar, but policymakers should consider the full distributional impact of investments.
Entropy generation analysis of turbulent flow in conical tubes with dimples: a numerical study
Authors: Kaood Amr , Aboulmagd Ahmed , ElDegwy Ahmed
Published: April 2023

Minimizing the entropy generation rate is one of the key performance indicators for enhancing the thermal design of heat exchangers. This paper introduces a comprehensive numerical entropy generation analysis of turbulent water flow inside—newly proposed—conical tubes with dimples subjected to a constant heat flux. The effect of different tube diameter ratios (DR = 1, 1.5, 2, 3, and 5) and flow modes (convergent and divergent tube configurations) on the thermal, viscous, and total entropy generation rates is investigated within Reynolds number (Re) range of 3 × 103–40 × 103 using ANSYS-Fluent package. Realizable k-ε (RKE) turbulence model is adopted in this study. A well-validated 3D model was adopted to estimate the dimensionless indices: Bejan number (Be), enhanced entropy generation ratio (Ns,en), and the irreversibility distribution ratio ($${\phi }_{\mathrm{s}}$$

ϕ
s

) to characterize the entropy generation performance and to compare conical dimpled tubes to smooth ones. The results showed that total entropy production rate values for dimpled tube geometries are lower than those for the corresponding smooth ones, especially for convergent dimpled tubes. Convergent dimpled tubes with DR in the range of 1.5–3 achieved the lowest total entropy production values over the whole Re range, with an average value of 0.20 W K−1, as compared to an average value of 0.34 W K−1 for the smooth configurations. The average Ns,en values for dimpled convergent tubes with DR = 1.5–3 are 0.46 and 0.80 at Re = 3000 and 40,000, with reductions of 50.54% and 3.61% at both Re values, respectively. The study also showed that the entropy generation analysis could provide an effective tool to highlight the optimal design of tube heat exchangers based on the minimum entropy generation and the enhanced entropy generation ratio.
On the size of a linear combination of two linear recurrence sequences over function fields
Authors: Heintze Sebastian
Published: April 2023

Let $$ G_n $$

G
n

and $$ H_m $$

H
m

be two non-degenerate linear recurrence sequences defined over a function field F in one variable over $$ \mathbb {C}$$
C
, and let $$ \mu $$
μ
be a valuation on F. We prove that under suitable conditions there are effectively computable constants $$ c_1 $$

c
1

and $$ C' $$

C
′

such that the bound $$\begin{aligned} \mu (G_n - H_m) \le \mu (G_n) + C' \end{aligned}$$

μ

(

G
n

-

H
m

)

≤
μ

(

G
n

)

+

C
′

holds for $$ \max \left( n,m \right) > c_1 $$

max

n
,
m

>

c
1

.