bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feed resources, feeding system and feed balance of dairy cattle in Chencha District, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Yisehak Kechero , Adane Kore
Published: September 2024

Background

Dairy cattle feed supplies in the tropics, and particularly in Ethiopia, are mostly derived from base diets (natural and improved grasslands, agricultural wastes, fodder trees and shrubs), agro‐industrial by‐products and non‐conventional feeds. The availability of major feed resource kinds, sources and dairy cattle feeding practises is primarily influenced by agro‐ecology and season, as well as their interactions.

Objectives

The research was carried out in the Chencha District of Gamo Zone, Southern Ethiopia, with the goals of assessing the available, feeding system, opportunity, limits and copying strategy of dairy cattle production, as well as estimating feed balance.

Methods

Data were gathered through primary and secondary data sources, field observations, key informant interviews, focus group talks and individual interviews. The survey data were stratified into altitudes, coded and analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 20 and the general linear model approach. Cross‐tabulation was used to examine the statistical variance of categorical data.

Results

The presence of different feed resource types, distinct agro‐ecologies (p < 0.05) and crop residue accessibility were the major opportunities for dairy cattle production in the study district, but land scarcity, a lack of dry season forages and land degradation due to erosion were the major constraints for dairy cattle feed production. In the research district, the main feed resource–copying approaches were reducing the number of dairy animals, saving optional feeds and purchasing optional feeds. The total mean of dairy cow feed supply to tropical livestock unit in terms of dry matter (DM) production each year was 3.86 t of DM/HH/annual, with a negative feed balance of 8.09 t that varied with seasons and agro‐ecology (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

According to the findings of this study, the low production of dairy cattle in the district is clearly related to the scarcity of feed resources. To address these issues, alternative feed production technologies should be implemented, such as farmers practising forage development on their own crop land and collecting crop residues during crop harvesting times and storing them under shed; the nutritive value of different types of fodder trees and shrubs should be further determined in the future and feed storage methods, particularly hay and silage, should be used when there are an abundance of feed resources available.
Scale‐sensitive marine law and policy design: Towards ecosystem‐based management across spatial and temporal scales
Authors: Macpherson Elizabeth , Mortiaux Rachael , Jorgensen Eric
Published: September 2024

Ecosystem‐based management (EBM) is promoted in scholarly literature and international policy as a way to improve marine ecosystem outcomes, through the integration of marine law and policies across sectors, communities, and scales. A legal and policy framework that supports EBM at appropriate temporal and spatial scales is fundamental to the successful deployment of EBM. However, marine management is typically fragmented and misaligned, with a range of laws, policies, governance institutions, and sectoral frameworks applying to different marine spaces and working on varying timescales. In this focus article, we draw on our comprehensive study of Aotearoa New Zealand's marine law and policy to analyze the challenges scale mismatches present for marine law and policy implementation, focusing on key policy areas across fisheries, environment, conservation, and Indigenous rights and interests. We identify key opportunities to better align marine law and policy to ecosystem scale dynamics, revealing critical lessons for the imperative of scale‐sensitive marine law and policy design, globally.

This article is categorized under:

Policy and Economics > Research and Development

Policy and Economics > Governance and Regulation

Climate and Environment > Ecosystem Services
Towards Embodied Paradata. A Diffractive Art/Archaeology Approach
Authors: Dawson Ian , Reilly Paul
Published: September 2024

For archaeologists, artists, and cultural heritage workers, paradata are generally viewed as explicitly selected and documented attributes, or defined sets of circumstances, authoritatively considered to have a material outcome on the provenance, collection, and manipulation of both recorded data and metadata and their subsequent interpretation or analysis of artefacts and other (contextual) remains. Being chosen, their own provenance is questionable: why were the selected data, metadata, and paradata more relevant than other options? We (re)consider embodied practice as a form of paradata-making normally airbrushed out of the hegemonic accounts of how works of art and archaeological excavations are presented and analysed. Decisions to not include the embodied worker, their apparatus, and their practices of making, or uncovering, haunt images purporting to be historical accounts in the art and archaeology literature by their absence. Adopting a diffractive art/archaeology approach, and subversively applying several well-known cultural heritage recording and presentation techniques, recursively and unconventionally, we throw light on embodied paradata and (re)present them as potentially very valuable pedagogical boundary objects. We also dislocate paradata away from a purely epistemological dimension into an entangled onto-epistemological nexus.
Tiling of dominoes with ranked colors
Authors: Khadir Omar , Németh László , Szalay László
Published: September 2024

Several articles deal with tilings with various colors and shapes. In this paper, we present a new type of tiling problem of a $$(1\times n)$$

(
1
×
n
)

—board where the colors have a prescribed order of preference and the size of colored dominoes is bounded by $$(1\times s)$$

(
1
×
s
)

. We show that the total number of tilings can be given as a linearly recurrent sequence of order ks, and at the same time by a higher order self-convolution of s-generalized Fibonacci sequences.
Irradiation alters extracellular vesicle microRNA load in the serum of patients with leukaemia
Authors: Hehlgans Stephanie , Eckert Denise , Martin Daniel , Lumniczky Katalin , Bug Gesine , Rödel Claus , Rödel Franz
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Recent data suggest an impact of extracellular vesicles (EVs) and their micro(mi)RNA cargo on cell-cell interactions to contribute to pathophysiology of leukaemia and radiation response. Here, we investigated differential miRNA cargo of EVs from serum derived from patients with leukaemia (n = 11) before and after total body irradiation with 2 × 2 Gy as compared to healthy donors (n = 6).

Methods

RNA was isolated from EVs and subjected to next generation sequencing of miRNAs. Analysis of sequencing data was performed with miRDeep29 software and differentially expressed miRNAs were filtered using R package edgeR10,11. Signaling pathways were identified using Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes database (KEGG) pathway analysis.

Results

Flow cytometric and Western blot analyses confirmed the presence of characteristic EV markers TSG-101, CD‑9 and CD-81. miRNA sequencing revealed a differential cargo in serum of patients with leukaemia in comparison to healthy donors with 23 significantly upregulated and 16 downregulated miRNAs affecting hedgehog, estrogen, glutathione metabolism and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) signaling pathways amongst others. Whole body irradiation of patients with leukaemia significantly increased 11 miRNAs, involved in cell cycle regulation and platinum drug resistance, and decreased 15 miRNAs, contributing to apoptosis or cytokine-receptor interactions.

Conclusion

As compared to healthy controls and following irradiation, we have identified differentially regulated miRNAs in serum-derived EVs from patients with leukaemia that may serve as possible biomarkers of leukaemic disease and treatment and radiation exposure.
Refinements of Strichartz estimates on tori and applications
Authors: Schippa Robert
Published: September 2024

We show trilinear Strichartz estimates in one and two dimensions on frequency-dependent time intervals. These improve on the corresponding linear estimates of periodic solutions to the Schrödinger equation. The proof combines decoupling iterations with bilinear short-time Strichartz estimates. Secondly, we use decoupling to show new linear Strichartz estimates on frequency dependent time intervals. We apply these in case of the Airy propagator to obtain the sharp Sobolev regularity for the existence of solutions to the modified Korteweg–de Vries equation.
GlyCompute: towards the automated analysis of protein N-linked glycosylation kinetics via an open-source computational framework
Authors: Flevaris Konstantinos , Kotidis Pavlos , Kontoravdi Cleo
Published: September 2024

Understanding the complex biosynthetic pathways of glycosylation is crucial for the expanding field of glycosciences. Computer-aided glycosylation analysis has greatly benefited in recent years from the development of tools found in web-based portals and open-source libraries. However, the in silico analysis of cellular glycosylation kinetics is underrepresented in current glycoscience-related tools and databases. This could be partly attributed to the limited accessibility of kinetic models developed using proprietary software and the difficulty in reliably parameterising such models. This work aims to address these challenges by proposing GlyCompute, an open-source framework demonstrating a novel, streamlined approach for the assembly, simulation, and parameterisation of kinetic models of protein N-linked glycosylation. Specifically, given one or more sets of experimentally observed N-glycan structures and their relative abundances, minimum representations of a glycosylation reaction network are generated. The topology of the resulting networks is then used to automatically assemble the material balances and kinetic mechanisms underpinning the mathematical model. To match the experimentally observed relative abundances, a sequential parameter estimation strategy using Bayesian inference is proposed, with stages determined automatically based on the underlying network topology. The proposed framework was tested on a case study involving the simultaneous fitting of the kinetic model to two protein N-linked glycoprofiles produced by the same CHO cell culture, showing good agreement with experimental observations. We envision that GlyCompute could help glycoscientists gain quantitative insights into the effect of enzyme kinetics and their perturbations on experimentally observed glycoprofiles in biomanufacturing and clinical settings.

Graphical Abstract
“There is a life before and after cancer”: experiences of resuming life and unmet care needs in stage I and II melanoma survivors
Authors: Kamminga N. C.W. , Kievits J. E.C. , Wakkee M. , Loon S. G.W. van , Joosen M. C.W. , Verver D. , Munte K. , Plaisier P. W.P. , Rietjens J. A.C. , Nijsten T. E.C. , Lugtenberg M.
Published: September 2024

Although the largest increase in melanoma incidence is observed for localised melanoma, little research has been done on its impact. Despite favourable prognoses and relatively short treatment trajectories, diagnosis and treatment may significantly impact life post-treatment. Therefore, the aim of this study was to gain an in-depth understanding of stage I and II melanoma survivors’ experiences resuming life after treatment and their associated survivorship care (SSC) needs. A qualitative focus group study was conducted with 18 stage I or II melanoma survivors, divided over three focus groups with 6 survivors each. Transcripts were analysed through thorough thematic content analysis, using multiple phases of coding. In resuming life, survivors experienced profound initial impacts of disease and treatment, fed by a perceived lack of knowledge and underestimation of melanoma. They faced unexpected physical and emotional effects post-surgery, experiencing mixed feelings from relief to fear and uncertainty. Survivors felt misunderstood, had to adjust their lives, and managed personal and external expectations while experiencing a positive shift in life perspective, leading to a notable difference in life before and after cancer. In terms of SSC needs, survivors stressed the need for tailored information, accessible resources, patient-centered follow-up, and supportive care addressing the total impact of disease and treatment. These findings highlight the importance of improving melanoma awareness and providing holistic SSC not only to advanced, but also to localised melanoma survivors. A tailored survivorship care plan could facilitate access to information and supportive care, helping patients resume their lives.
Limitations and perspectives of the novel salivary test for endometriosis: an open web-based survey study of German gynecologic healthcare providers
Authors: Nigdelis Meletios P. , Doerk Merle , Burghaus Stefanie , Sillem Martin , Hamoud Bashar Haj , Solomayer Erich-Franz , Olmes Gregor Leonhard
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The description of a salivary miRNA signature for endometriosis has led to the development of a non-invasive diagnostic test. Current healthcare provider practices regarding the test remain uncaptured. The application of this test in practice was examined in a web-based survey, with the aim to provide their opinions on it.

Methods

We conducted an open web-based survey study between November 2023 and January 2024. Members of the German society of gynecologic endoscopy (Arbeitsgemeinschaft gynäkologische Endoskopie, AGE), society of endometriosis (Arbeitsgemeinschaft Endometriose, AGEM), and the endometriosis research foundation (Stiftung Endometriose Forschung, SEF) were contacted per e-mail twice. Participants’ data were anonymized. Differences in responses based on self-reported expertise in the field (basic knowledge, specialized knowledge, expert) were assessed using the χ2-test or Fisher’s exact test. Statistical significance was set as p < 0.05.

Results

In total 141 of 190 respondents completely responded to the survey (> 75% of the questions of the survey). Twenty-one physicians reported having experience with the test, while most participants had at least specialized knowledge on the field (112/141). In terms of specific questions, more than 90% found the costs high; almost 85% did not believe that the test replaces standard diagnostic tools (histology, clinical examination, and sonography). Eighty-six providers supported the use of the test in adolescents. Gynecologists with basic knowledge had a more positive attitude compared with more experienced ones in terms of usefulness (Fisher’s exact test, p < 0.001). Significant differences were demonstrated between expertise groups regarding (not only) applicability in adolescents (Fisher’s exact test, p = 0.004), and using the test for screening purposes (χ2-test, p = 0.002).

Discussion

Despite the promising benefits of a salivary test for endometriosis, German healthcare providers would not change current practices. Nevertheless, less experienced colleagues were more positive towards the test.
K2P2.1 channels modulate the pH- and mechanosensitivity of pancreatic stellate cells
Authors: Rugi Micol , Hofschröer Verena , Pethő Zoltán , Soret Benjamin , Loeck Thorsten , Schwab Albrecht
Published: September 2024

Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) are central in the development of acute pancreatitis and tumor fibrosis in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Fibrosis and a unique pH landscape represent characteristic properties of the PDAC microenvironment. Mechanosensitive ion channels are involved in the activation of PSCs. Among these channels, K2P2.1 has not yet been studied in PSCs. K2P2.1 channels are pH- and mechanosensitive. We confirmed K2P2.1 expression in PSCs by RT-qPCR and immunofluorescence. PSCs from K2P2.1+/+ and K2P2.1−/− mice were studied under conditions mimicking properties of the PDAC microenvironment (acidic extracellular pH (pHe), ambient pressure elevated by + 100 mmHg). Migration and the cell area were taken as surrogates for PSC activation and evaluated with live cell imaging. pHe-dependent changes of the membrane potential of PSCs were investigated with DiBAC4(3), a voltage-sensitive fluorescent dye. We observed a correlation between morphological activation and progressive hyperpolarization of the cells in response to changes in pHe and pressure. The effect was in part dependent on the expression of K2P2.1 channels because the membrane potential of K2P2.1+/+ PSCs was always more hyperpolarized than that of K2P2.1−/− PSCs. Cell migration velocity of K2P2.1+/+ cells decreased upon pressure application when cells were kept in an acidic medium (pHe 6.6). This was not the case in K2P2.1−/− PSCs. Taken together, our study highlights the critical role of K2P2.1 channels in the combined sensing of environmental pressure and pHe by PSCs and in coordinating cellular morphology with membrane potential dynamics. Thus, K2P2.1 channels are important mechano-sensors in murine PSCs.
White matter connectivity linked to novel word learning in children
Authors: Ekerdt Clara , Menks Willeke M. , Fernández Guillén , McQueen James M. , Takashima Atsuko , Janzen Gabriele
Published: September 2024

Children and adults are excellent word learners. Increasing evidence suggests that the neural mechanisms that allow us to learn words change with age. In a recent fMRI study from our group, several brain regions exhibited age-related differences when accessing newly learned words in a second language (L2; Takashima et al. Dev Cogn Neurosci 37, 2019). Namely, while the Teen group (aged 14–16 years) activated more left frontal and parietal regions, the Young group (aged 8–10 years) activated right frontal and parietal regions. In the current study we analyzed the structural connectivity data from the aforementioned study, examining the white matter connectivity of the regions that showed age-related functional activation differences. Age group differences in streamline density as well as correlations with L2 word learning success and their interaction were examined. The Teen group showed stronger connectivity than the Young group in the right arcuate fasciculus (AF). Furthermore, white matter connectivity and memory for L2 words across the two age groups correlated in the left AF and the right anterior thalamic radiation (ATR) such that higher connectivity in the left AF and lower connectivity in the right ATR was related to better memory for L2 words. Additionally, connectivity in the area of the right AF that exhibited age-related differences predicted word learning success. The finding that across the two age groups, stronger connectivity is related to better memory for words lends further support to the hypothesis that the prolonged maturation of the prefrontal cortex, here in the form of structural connectivity, plays an important role in the development of memory.
Factors affecting wild boar damage and countermeasure effectiveness: a case study in a regional park located in a mountainous area
Authors: Tamura Shota , Yokoyama Makoto , Bamrungkhul Settawut , Ngamsiriudom Tarnrawee , Katano Yuki , Kanemoto Hiroki , Chiba Yuria , Hirano Kazuki , Mizusawa Katsuya , Goto Taku , Nishimura Jumpei , Matsuura Michihiro , Migitera Tomoya , Yamaga Riki , Araki Ryota , Kitazawa Masaki , Shiromoto Daiki , Sogame Isho , Fukuda Momoka , Yamamoto Yuki , Tanaka Takahiro
Published: September 2024

In recent years, the habitat distribution of wild boar has expanded in Japan, and the damage caused by wild boar has been significantly increased. In Bingo Sports Park, a regional park, wild boar damage has also been increasingly severe. To take effective measures, it is necessary to understand where wild boars enter the park, how they move through it, and where the damage is caused. Therefore, this study examines both environmental characteristics inside and outside the park and behavioral characteristics of wild boar using drones, sensor technology and GIS, and then clarifies the main factors contributing to wild boar damage based the logistic regression analysis. In addition, countermeasures such as installing electric fences and repellents were taken, and their effectiveness was verified. There were three main findings. First, the behavioral pattern of wild boars was found to be likely to enter from valleys and usually move on roads in the park. Second, the probability of occurring wild boar damage is higher in areas closer to roads and valleys with more natural cover. Third, the countermeasures have a significant effect on reducing wild boar damage since the amount of damage in the Multi-purposed square installed countermeasure was too small.
The efficacy of screening with FDG-PET/CT for distant metastases in breast cancer patients scheduled for neoadjuvant systemic therapy
Authors: Gunster Jetske L. B. , van Duijnhoven Frederieke H. , Scholten Astrid N. , Smorenburg Carolien H. , Dezentje Vincent O. , van Olmen Josefien P. , Marijnen Corrie A. M. , Stokkel Marcel P. M. , Loo Claudette E. , Schrijver A. Marjolein
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to identify which breast cancer patients benefit from the routine use of FDG-PET/CT in a large cohort of patients scheduled for neoadjuvant systemic therapy (NST).

Methods

A total of 1337 breast cancer patients eligible for NST were identified from a retrospective database between 2011 and 2020 at a single tertiary care hospital. All patients underwent staging with FDG-PET/CT prior to NST. The incidence and extent of asymptomatic distant metastases in different patient subgroups were determined, as well as the impact on treatment. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify prognostic patient and tumor characteristics.

Results

FDG-PET/CT detected distant metastases in 109 patients (8%). Initial clinical stage was a prognostic factor for the presence of distant metastases, with a significantly higher risk for stage 2b and 3 as opposed to lower stages (p < 0.001). The incidence of distant metastases was 3% (4/125) for stage 1, 2% (8/534) for stage 2a, 7% (24/354) for stage 2b and 23% (73/324) for stage 3. Other characteristics such as age, tumor subtype, histological type and grade were not correlated with the risk of distant metastases. Among the subset of patients with distant metastases, 46% received palliative treatment, while the remaining 54% were diagnosed with oligometastatic breast cancer and were treated with curative intent.

Conclusion

The results of the current study support the routine use of FDG-PET/CT for the detection of distant metastases in breast cancer patients with initial clinical stage 2b and 3, regardless of tumor subtype.
Growing liveable cities: an indicators study of Melbourne’s fast-growing metropolitan area
Authors: An Aaron
Published: September 2024

Building liveable cities is challenging; ensuring we keep building liveable cities with growing populations is more difficult, but it's a task that we can tackle together. The Metropolitan Growth Area Councils (MGACs) in Greater Melbourne are experiencing rapid growth, which presents development opportunities and challenges for building liveable communities. This article examines the correlations between MGACs and other metropolitan councils on key indicators such as population, council representation, household characters, education, employment, transport, and safety. It concludes that MGACs tend to have larger populations, more children, younger communities, and lower mortgage payments but are less likely to own their homes outright, more commuters by car and large gaps in community infrastructure such as schools and libraries. Crimes such as burglaries, housebreaking, and arson are also problems. As decision-makers, urban planners, community stakeholders, and researchers involved in urban development and community planning, it is crucial to target resources at these challenges to make communities in growth areas more liveable.
Speed of Sound Measurements of R-1130(E) and an Azeotropic Blend of R-1336mzz(Z)/1130(E)
Authors: Rowane Aaron J.
Published: September 2024

Sound speed data measured using a dual-path pulse-echo instrument are reported for pure trans-1,2-dichloroethene (R-1130(E)) and an azeotropic blend of cis-1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobutene (R-1336mzz(Z)) and R-1130(E) with a composition of 74.8 mass % R-1336mzz(Z) with the balance being R-1130(E). The azeotropic blend of R-1336mzz(Z)/1130(E) is classified as R-514A in ANSI/ASHRAE standard 34. Liquid phase speed of sound data are reported from just above the saturation pressure of pure R-1130(E) or the bubble point pressure of R-514A to a maximum pressure of 26.7 MPa. The relative combined expanded uncertainty in the speed of sound varies from 0.032 % to 0.148 % with the greatest deviations occurring at the lowest sound speeds. At present, no reference Helmholtz-energy-explicit equation of state (EOS) is available for R-1130(E). Therefore, the reported data for pure R-1130(E) are compared to an extended corresponding states (ECS) model. Deviations between the pure R-1130(E) sound speed data and the ECS model were found to be consistently negative ranging between − 4.1 % and − 3.5 %. The R-514A data are compared to a multifluid model inclusive of the established reference Helmholtz-energy-explicit EOS for R-1336mzz(Z) and ECS model for R-1130(E) with estimated binary interaction parameters. Deviations between the experimental speed of sound data and the multifluid model were also found to be consistently negative. However, deviations from the multifluid model were found to be as great as − 17.1 %. The large deviations from the ECS model and multifluid model underscore the need for a robust Helmholtz-energy-explicit EOS for R-1130(E).
Working less for longer: unintended effects of longevity adjustment of retirement age
Authors: Hougaard Jensen Svend E. , Sveinsson Thorsteinn Sigurdur , Sousa Duarte Miguel
Published: September 2024

Using a standard macro model with overlapping generations in the manner of Blanchard–Yaari, we show that by broadening the labour supply on the extensive margin through longevity adjustment of the statutory retirement age, labour supply is likely to decrease on the intensive margin. However, this backlash effect depends on the specific design of the pension system. It is significantly higher under a pay-as-you-go scheme with fixed benefits compared to a pay-as-you-go scheme with fixed contributions and a fully funded scheme based on voluntary savings. The findings have implications for responses to the fiscal and macroeconomic challenges raised by an ageing population.
The Moderating Effect of Sex on Autistic Trait Emotional Intelligence, Alexithymia, and Empathy
Authors: Cargill Mary Isaac , Lerner Matthew D. , Kang Erin
Published: September 2024

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with differences in social communication, and these differences are related to trait emotional intelligence (TEI), alexithymia, and empathy. Autism is known to present differently in males and females, but research on sex differences in TEI, alexithymia, and empathy is largely relegated to non-autistic people. Therefore, the current research sought to explore individual relationships between autistic characteristics and TEI, alexithymia, and empathy, as well as the possible influence of sex in these relationships. In the current study, autistic and non-autistic adults reported on their autistic characteristics, TEI, alexithymia, and empathy. Based on previous research, it was hypothesized that more autistic characteristics would be associated with less TEI, more alexithymia, and less empathy, and that these relationships would be more prominent amongst males. More autistic characteristics were associated with greater challenges across the three areas of interest. However, only the relationship between TEI and autistic characteristics was moderated by sex, such that males demonstrated higher support needs related to TEI than females. Results from this analysis indicate that adults with more autistic characteristics, regardless of diagnostic status, demonstrate differences in TEI, alexithymia, and empathy. The current analysis may offer additional context to the evolving understanding of empathy and autism by suggesting that TEI and alexithymia could account for differences in empathy. Moreover, sex seems to play a role in the relationship between autistic characteristics and TEI such that differences are especially prominent for males.
Prevention and Reduction of Anxiety in Autistic Preschoolers Through an Autism-Specific Parent-Mediated Intervention: A Pilot Randomised Controlled Trial Evaluating Short and Longer Term Outcomes
Authors: Adams Dawn , Malone Stephanie , Dargue Nicole , Keen Deb , Rodgers Jacqui , Simpson Kate , Wicks Rachelle , Bullot Ashleigh , Rapee Ron
Published: September 2024

Anxiety is a common co-occurring condition for autistic preschoolers. Whilst there has been extensive research evaluating anxiety prevention/reduction interventions for neurotypical preschoolers, such research is limited for autistic children. Fifty-seven parents of autistic 4–5-year olds, with varying levels of anxiety, participated in a randomised controlled trial of an autism-specific, parent-mediated intervention (CLK-CUES) to prevent or reduce anxiety in autistic preschoolers. Baseline, short-term (post-intervention) and longer term (12 months follow-up) assessments included child anxiety (ASC-ASD-P and PAS-R), intolerance of uncertainty, and parent well-being. (Trial registration ACTRN12620001322921). There were no reports of harmful effects of the intervention or trial. Linear mixed models show a significant group x time interaction for ASC-ASD-P Total score and the Uncertainty subscale with medium and large effect sizes. Post-hoc analyses show a significant decline for only the intervention group in anxiety (specifically, anxiety around uncertainty) from pre-post intervention, maintained at one year follow-up. There was no change on the PAS-R or other ASC-ASD-P subscales. CLK-CUES shows promise as a way to prevent and reduce anxiety in young autistic children, specifically anxiety related to uncertainty. Trials with larger samples are warranted. Findings also highlight the importance of using measures designed for autistic children.
Effects of UV illumination on organic dye decomposition activity and antibacterial and antiviral activities of rare earth iodates
Authors: Abe Kazuya , Sunada Kayano , Mochizuki Yasuhide , Isobe Toshihiro , Nagai Takeshi , Ishiguro Hitoshi , Nakajima Akira
Published: September 2024

For this study, we investigated the effects of UV illumination on dye decomposition and antibacterial and antiviral activities of three rare earth iodates (Ce(IO3)4, Ce(IO3)3, and δ-La(IO3)3) that reportedly have antibacterial and antiviral activities in the dark. The objective of this study was to clarify whether bulk materials and eluted ions are involved in these activities under UV illumination. Findings indicate that Ce(IO3)3 and δ-La(IO3)3 exhibit dye degradation activity under UV illumination by a Hg-Xe lamp (7 mW/cm2), suggesting that the dye decomposition activity was caused mainly by photochemical reactions under UV with wavelengths less than 300 nm by Ce3+ and by IO3− ions eluted from the samples. The dye decomposition activity under UV illumination is expressed not only from the eluted ions but also from the bulk materials. UV illumination using a weak (0.1 mW/cm2) UV light from a black light bulb with wavelengths longer than 320 nm increased the antibacterial and antiviral activities of these materials. These results suggest that the increase in antibacterial and antiviral activities is attributable to the photocatalytic reaction of bulk materials. This study revealed that both the bulk and eluted ions are involved in these activities under UV illumination. The extent to which photochemical reactions caused by eluted ions and bulk material contribute to the decomposition activity of organic dyes and antibacterial and antiviral activities depends on the UV illumination wavelength and intensity. This study provides new insights into the use of rare earth iodates as inorganic antibacterial and antiviral materials.

Graphical abstract
Investigating the effects of a utility value manipulation on attention: combining self-report and neuronal measures
Authors: Baier-Mosch Franziska , John Nathalie , Korinth Sebastian P. , Kunter Mareike
Published: September 2024

Utility value interventions are one approach to promote students’ interest experience and performance. It is unexplored how utility value interventions affect attention besides enjoyment and perceived value as important aspect of interest experience. The present research investigated the effects of a directly-communicated utility value intervention on students’ enjoyment, perceived value, performance and self-reported and neuronal attention (EEG alpha-band activity). In a first study, 139 psychology students watched a video-taped mathematics lecture online. The lecture emphasized the utility value of logarithms to psychology students by drawing on examples from psychology (nEG = 70). Examples from natural sciences were used in the control group (nCG = 69). In a second experiment with 52 psychology students (nEG = 23, nCG = 29) the same intervention was tested in a laboratory setting while the students’ electroencephalogram was recorded. The utility value intervention increased students’ perceived value in both settings. No main effect for any other outcome was found.
Enhancing quality of life measurement: adapting the ASCOT easy read for older adults accessing social care
Authors: Caiels James , Rand Stacey , Mikelyte Rasa , Webster Lucy , Field Elizabeth , Towers Ann-Marie
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to adapt and assess the content validity of the ASCOT Easy Read (ASCOT-ER) for older people accessing social care.

Methods

A co-production working group of 8 older social care users and their supporters was established to evaluate the comprehensibility and relevance of the ASCOT-ER images, wording and layout. Changes made by the working group were iteratively tested using cognitive interviewing techniques (think aloud) with 25 older social care users not able to self-complete the original ASCOT.

Results

Co-research with people with dementia and their supporters was critical to the development of an effective and accessible tool. Issues identified with comprehension, recall, judgement and response were addressed through iterative adjustments to design, layout and wording. An unexpected finding was that illustrations were disliked or disregarded by the majority of people, and, in particular, those living with dementia. This result contrasts with the typical assumption of easy read approaches, where illustrations are expected to enhance comprehension.

Conclusion

The ASCOT-ER measure for older people is suitable for older people using social care services with mild to moderate dementia, mild cognitive impairment and other age-related needs. The revisions applied were designed to improve comprehension, judgement and response for this group and even those who were most cognitively impaired experienced fewer issues by the final round of testing. Nonetheless, some prompting was still required, particularly for those with higher levels of cognitive impairment and it is likely that some respondents will require the questionnaire to be administered in an interview format.
Quality of life impacts associated with comorbid insomnia and depression in adult population
Authors: Le Phuong Hong , Khanh-Dao Le Long , Rajaratnam Shantha M.W. , Mihalopoulos Cathrine
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) impacts of insomnia and depression (as separated entities) have been well investigated in previous studies. However, little is known about the effect of comorbid insomnia and depression on HRQoL. This study aimed to assess the impacts of insomnia and depression, in combination or alone, on HRQoL in Australian adults.

Methods

Data used in this study were obtained from the large-scale longitudinal Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) survey. Insomnia was defined using key insomnia criteria of DSM-V. Depression was based on validated cut-off points of the Mental Health Inventory-5 (MHI-5) (scores ≤ 62) in the base case analysis. HRQoL expressed as utility scores (ranging from 0 to 1) were measured using the Short-Form 6-Dimension (SF-6D) converted from the SF-36 and valued using an Australian scoring algorithm. Multi-level modelling was applied to assess the effect of insomnia and/or depression on utility scores.

Results

The study analysed 30,972 observations from 10,324 individuals (age [mean ± SD]: 45.7 ± 16.5, female: 54.6%). The proportion of individuals with insomnia only, depression only, and comorbid insomnia and depression was 11.3%, 11.6%, and 8.2%, respectively. The interaction effect suggested the combined impact of insomnia and depression on health-related quality of life beyond the sum of their individual effects. Marginal mean difference in utility scores for insomnia only, depression only, and the comorbidity relative to no insomnia or depression was -0.058 (SE: 0.003, Cohen’s d: 0.420, small effect), -0.210 (SE: 0.003, Cohen’s d: 1.530, large effect), and -0.291 (SE: 0.004, Cohen’s d: 2.120, large effect), respectively.

Conclusion

Comorbid depression and insomnia appear to have very large quality-of-life impacts. Furthermore, this is the first study that has estimated the magnitude of the impact of comorbid insomnia and depression on utility scores which can be utilised in future clinical or economic studies.
Narrative Deference
Authors: Byrne Eleanor A.
Published: September 2024

Recent work on distributed cognition and self-narrative has emphasised how autobiographical memories and their narration are, rather than being stored and created by an individual, distributed across embodied organisms and their environment. This paper postulates a stronger form of distributed narration than has been accommodated in the literature so far, which I call narrative deference. This describes the phenomena whereby a person is significantly dependent upon another person for the narration of some significant aspect of their own autobiographical self-narrative. I suggest that a person is more likely to narratively defer where they suffer a mnemonic impairment regarding some significant adverse life experience like trauma, illness or injury. Following a recent turn in the literature towards investigating the harmful aspects of distributed cognition as well as its many advantageous features, this paper explores how the benefits of autobiographical self-narrative deference within close personal relationships are complexly related to its harms.
Recommender systems based on neuro-symbolic knowledge graph embeddings encoding first-order logic rules
Authors: Spillo Giuseppe , Musto Cataldo , de Gemmis Marco , Lops Pasquale , Semeraro Giovanni
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we present a knowledge-aware recommendation model based on neuro-symbolic graph embeddings that encode first-order logic rules. Our approach is based on the intuition that is the basis of neuro-symbolic AI systems: to combine deep learning and symbolic reasoning in one single model, in order to take the best out of both the paradigms. To this end, we start from a knowledge graph (KG) encoding information about users, ratings, and descriptive properties of the items and we design a model that combines background knowledge encoded in logical rules mined from the KG with explicit knowledge encoded in the triples of the KG itself to obtain a more precise representation of users and items. Specifically, our model is based on the combination of: (i) a rule learner that extracts first-order logic rules based on the information encoded in the knowledge graph; (ii) a graph embedding module, that jointly learns a vector space representation of users and items based on the triples encoded in the knowledge graph and the rules previously extracted; (iii) a recommendation module that uses the embeddings to feed a deep learning architecture that provides users with top-k recommendations. In the experimental section, we evaluate the effectiveness of our strategy on three datasets, and the results show that the combination of knowledge graph embeddings and first-order logic rules led to an improvement in the predictive accuracy and in the novelty of the recommendations. Moreover, our approach overcomes several competitive baselines, thus confirming the validity of our intuitions.
Housing Insecurity and Older Adults’ Health and Well-Being in a Gentrifying City: Results from the EPIPorto Cohort Study
Authors: Santos Cláudia Jardim , Henriques Ana , Moreira Carla , Ribeiro Ana Isabel
Published: September 2024

Using 2022 data from 600 adults (≥ 60 years) in Porto, Portugal, we explored the association between housing insecurity and various health outcomes. We examined housing conditions, affordability, and stability in relation to loneliness, quality of life, cognitive function, perception of healthy ageing, and sleep using regression models. Older adults without house heating (β = 2.293; 95%CI = 0.753, 3.833), with leaks/dampness/rot (β = 3.741; 1.818, 5.664), insufficient daylight (β = 2.787; 0.095, 5.479), living in neighborhoods with noise (β = 1.793, 0.280 to 3.305), pollution/grime (β = 2.580; 0.746, 4.414), and violence/crime/vandalism (β = 3.940; 1.723, 6.157), who faced housing cost overburden (β = 2.001; 0.426, 3.577), eviction (β = 12.651; 0.852, 24.450), and moved frequently (β = 4.129; 1.542, 6.716) exhibited higher levels of loneliness. Similarly, lack of house heating (β = − 1.942; − 3.438, − 0.445), leaks/dampness/rot (β = − 4.157; − 5.999, − 2.316), insufficient daylight (β = − 3.124; − 5.714, − 0.534), noise (β = − 2.143; − 3.600, − 0.686), pollution/grime (β = − 2.093; − 3.860, − 0.325), violence/crime/vandalism (β = − 2.819; − 4.948, − 0.691), and those with housing cost overburden (β = − 2.435; − 3.930, − 0.940) reported lower quality of life. Those with no toilet (β =  − 1.891; − 3.760, − 0.021) or shower (β =  − 1.891; − 3.760, − 0.021) and who faced forced displacement (β =  − 2.179; − 3.516, − 0.842) presented lower cognitive function. Furthermore, those living in neighborhoods with pollution/grime (OR = 0.494; 0.322, 0.756) and violence/crime/vandalism (OR = 0.477; 0.284, 0.801), those in social housing (OR = 0.728; 0.575, 0.922), and those who moved frequently (OR = 0.475; 0.257, 0.879) reported lower levels of perceived healthy ageing. Insufficient sleep was more common among residents in social housing (OR = 2.155; 1.102, 4.213), while poor sleep quality was least likely both among those living in social housing (OR = 0.445; 0.220, 0.900) and affordable housing (OR = 0.381; 0.162, 0.896). Good quality, stable, and affordable housing seems crucial for healthy ageing.
Comparison between OK-432 and Talc for pleurodesis in patients with persistent pulmonary air leak: a Japanese nationwide retrospective database study
Authors: Taniguchi Jumpei , Aso Shotaro , Jo Taisuke , Matsui Hiroki , Fushimi Kiyohide , Yasunaga Hideo
Published: September 2024

Objectives

OK-432 (Picibanil®) and talc are used in patients with persistent pulmonary air leaks. However, it is unclear which of these two agents is more effective.

Methods

This retrospective study used data from the Japanese Diagnosis Procedure Combination inpatient database. Patients with pneumothorax who underwent chemical pleurodesis between July 2010 and March 2022 were included in this study. The patients were categorized into two groups: the OK-432 and talc groups. The primary outcome measure was treatment failure, defined as a composite of requirement for additional surgical procedures, bronchoscopic interventions, or chemical pleurodesis. The secondary outcome measures were in-hospital mortality, length of hospital stay, 30-day readmission, and incidence of interstitial lung diseases after hospitalization. To compare the outcomes between the groups, 1:4 propensity score matching was conducted.

Results

Among the 4179 eligible patients, 3551 and 628 patients underwent chemical pleurodesis using OK-432 and talc, respectively. Propensity score matching yielded 2508 and 627 patients who underwent chemical pleurodesis using OK-432 and talc within seven days of admission, respectively. The frequency of treatment failure in the talc group (37.5% vs. 31.4%; P = 0.006) was lower than that in the OK-432 group with no significant differences in other outcomes.

Conclusions

Medical professionals can consider talc as the initial pleurodesis agent for patients with persistent air leaks.
Patient-reported outcome measures and physical function following head and neck lymphedema — a systematic review
Authors: Gaitatzis Katrina , Thompson Belinda , Blake Fiona Tisdall , Koelmeyer Louise
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Head and neck cancer (HNC) treatments often lead to significant morbidity, including lymphedema. This systematic review aims to comprehensively explore the prevalence and impact of head and neck lymphedema (HNL) following treatment.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted up to September 2023. Studies evaluating HNL prevalence, associated factors, impact, patient-reported outcomes (PROMs), and physical assessments were included. Methodological quality assessment was performed, and data were synthesised narratively.

Results

Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria, with methodological quality ranging from moderate to high. Internal lymphedema prevalence was consistently higher than external lymphedema, with varying rates attributed to treatment modalities and assessment methods. PROMs such as the Lymphedema Symptom Intensity and Distress-Head and Neck and physical assessments including Patterson’s Rating Scale were commonly utilised. HNL significantly impacted quality of life and physical function, with reported symptoms including discomfort, tightness, swallowing difficulties, and psychological distress.

Conclusion

HNL is a common sequela of HNC treatment with significant implications for individuals’ QoL. Standardised assessment protocols and tailored interventions are needed to address the needs of individuals with HNL and improve overall outcomes.

Implications for Cancer Survivors

This systematic review highlights a significant prevalence of lymphedema, particularly internal lymphedema in the larynx and pharynx, following treatment. Swallowing difficulties, nutritional issues, anxiety, depression, and body image concerns were associated with both internal and external lymphedema. The impact on quality of life is substantial, with survivors experiencing physical symptoms and psychosocial challenges, emphasising the importance of integrated care approaches tailored to both aspects of well-being.
A survey of Spanish research in mathematics education
Authors: Bosch Marianna , Gutierrez Angel , Llinares Salvador
Published: September 2024

This survey paper presents recent relevant research in mathematics education produced in Spain, which allows the identification of different broad lines of research developed by Spanish groups of scholars. First, we present and describe studies whose research objectives are related to student learning of specific curricular contents and process-oriented competencies, namely arithmetic, algebra, geometry, functions and calculus, probability and statistics, and argumentation or proof in geometric contexts. Next, we present characteristics and foci of investigations dealing with different aspects of mathematics teacher education, encompassing a large part of Spanish research in mathematics education. The descriptions of other transversal lines of research complement the previous two big blocks: research on students with special educational needs and the effects of using technology in different curricular contents and educational levels. Finally, we report on the research activities and advances of Spanish research in mathematics education from two main theoretical frameworks created or developed by Spanish researchers. This plurality of research strands also corresponds to a wide range of international collaborations, especially with Latin American colleagues.