bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnetic‐Oriented Nickel Particles and Nickel‐Coated Carbon Nanotubes: An Efficient Tool for Enhancing Thermal Conductivity of PDMS Composites
Authors: Giacomo Riccucci , Angelo Romano , Lorenzo Pezzana , Alice Tori , Silvia Spriano , Marco Sangermano
Published: October 2022

In this study, PDMS composites are thermally cured with nickel particles and nickel‐coated carbon nanotubes as fillers. Both fillers are oriented with the aim to increase the thermal conductivity of the silicone polymer network, due to the formation of a continuous thermal path. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) gives a picture of the polymer network's morphology, proving the effective alignment of the nickel particles. Rheology and attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR‐FTIR) studies confirm the full curing of the silicon network and no influence in the curing kinetics of the type and content of fillers and their orientation. Dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA) and tensile analysis show instead different thermo‐mechanical behavior of the polymer network due to the presence of different fillers, different fillers percentage, and orientation. Finally, the thermal transmittance coefficient (k) is studied by means of hot disk analysis, revealing the increment of almost 200% due to magnetic filler orientation.
Relating the dark side of new‐age technologies and customer technostress
Authors: Kumar V. , Rajan Bharath , Salunkhe Uday , Joag Shreekant G.
Published: October 2022

While the new‐age technologies do provide firms with opportunities to engage with customers better, they create undesired effects such as stress among customers in terms of navigating the newer technologies. This study identifies such stress as customer technostress and defines this new construct as “the result of negative experiences faced by customers when interacting with firm‐based new‐age technologies.” We also identify that the customer technostress construct to be comprised of six stressors—techno‐invasion, techno‐complexity, techno‐uncertainty, techno‐dependence, techno‐vulnerability, and techno‐inferiority. In doing so, we use a triangulation approach to develop a framework that proposes that customer technostress mediates the effect of new‐age technologies on customer engagement. Accordingly, we propose that (1) the negative experiences of customers when using new‐age technologies can create customer technostress, (2) a nonlinear relationship exists between customer technostress and customer engagement, (3) an increase in the marketing efforts of new‐age technologies by firms will help mitigate the effect of negative experiences of customers on customer technostress, (4) an increase in the customers’ familiarity with new‐age technologies will help mitigate the effect of negative experiences of customers on customer technostress, and (5) compared to reactive and proactive coping strategies, adaptive coping strategies will have a greater mitigating influence on the nonlinear relationship between customer technostress and customer engagement. This proposed framework also recognizes that a firm's reactions to a decline in customer engagement due to customer technostress can serve as inputs for subsequent improvements. This study concludes by identifying areas for future research.
Preparation of Supramolecular Miktoarm Star Copolymers with a Zinc Phthalocyanine Core through ATRP and RAFT Polymerization
Authors: Zhong Xinhao , Nagai Akira , Takeuchi Masayuki , Aimi Junko
Published: October 2022

Topological polymers have attracted considerable attention owing to their unique chemical and physical properties. This study demonstrates the formation of novel supramolecular miktoarm star copolymers with a zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPc) core using metal–ligand coordination interactions. Various linear polymers with pyridyl end groups, poly(methyl methacrylate), poly(vinyl acetate) and poly(N‐vinyl carbazole), are prepared via reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization. This facilitates coordination to the ZnPc core of 4‐armed star‐shaped polystyrene prepared via atom‐transfer radical polymerization (ATRP). Furthermore, the formation of a 1:1 complex of a ZnPc molecule and pyridyl group of the chain‐transfer agent for RAFT is confirmed by absorption spectral studies and 1H NMR spectroscopic analyses. The concept of supramolecular complexation can be extended to the preparation of AB4‐type supramolecular miktoarm star‐shaped copolymers with functional cores.
FR‐4‐based Ka‐band SISL bandpass filters using folded half‐wavelength resonators
Authors: Yue Zehua , Ma Kaixue , Wang Yongqiang
Published: October 2022

In this letter, bandpass filters (BPFs) with folded short‐circuited half‐wavelength (λ/2) resonators are proposed based on the substrate integrated suspended line (SISL) platform for satellite communications. Each λ/2 resonator is folded, to achieve an overlapping structure, which not only reduces the size, but more importantly, reduces the loss. In addition, air cavity, metal shielding wall, and substrate excavation method also dramatically reduce the loss in substrates. Note that professional material term (FR‐4) material is chosen for the design, therefore, it is low‐cost and more suitable for production application. Finally, a second‐order and a fourth‐order combline BPFs are fabricated and measured to verify the design method. The insertion loss of the second‐order and the fourth‐order filters are only 0.78 and 1.19 dB at the center frequency of 29.2 GHz, respectively. The presented SISL filters using FR‐4 material demonstrate the advantages of low‐loss, low‐cost, and self‐packaging.
A sequentially rotated feeding circularly polarized stacked patch antenna array based on SISL
Authors: Yan Ningning , Song Doudou , Luo Yu , Ma Kaixue
Published: October 2022

A sequentially rotated feeding circularly polarized stacked patch antenna and its array based on substrate integrated suspended line (SISL) are presented. The resonant frequencies of 5.05 and 5.35 GHz are obtained by using the cross slot on the driven patch, which can also realize circular polarization. The windmill stacked patch is introduced to generate another resonant frequency of 5.85 GHz and expand 3‐dB axial ratio (AR) bandwidth (BW). The measured 10‐dB impedance BW of 18.2% (4.98–5.98 GHz) and the 3‐dB AR BW of 3.6% (5.45–5.65 GHz) are obtained from the proposed antenna element. The measured peak gain is 9.0 dBi. A sequentially rotated feeding is used to excite the proposed 2 × 2 antenna array. The measured peak gain is 13.31 dBi. The measured 10‐dB impedance BW is 28.3% (4.80–6.38 GHz) and the 3‐dB AR BW is 8.9% (5.35–5.85 GHz).
Assessing retinal vein occlusion based on color fundus photographs using neural understanding network (NUN)
Authors: Beeche Cameron , Gezer Naciye S , Iyer Kartik , Almetwali Omar , Yu Juezhao , Zhang Yanchun , Dhupar Rajeev , Leader Joseph K. , Pu Jiantao
Published: October 2022

Objective

To develop and validate a novel deep learning architecture to classify retinal vein occlusion (RVO) on color fundus photographs (CFPs) and reveal the image features contributing to the classification.

Methods

The neural understanding network (NUN) is formed by two components: (1) convolutional neural network (CNN)‐based feature extraction and (2) graph neural networks (GNN)‐based feature understanding. The CNN‐based image features were transformed into a graph representation to encode and visualize long‐range feature interactions to identify the image regions that significantly contributed to the classification decision. A total of 7062 CFPs were classified into three categories: (1) no vein occlusion (“normal”), (2) central RVO, and (3) branch RVO. The area under the receiver operative characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) was used as the metric to assess the performance of the trained classification models.

Results

The AUC, accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity for NUN to classify CFPs as normal, central occlusion, or branch occlusion were 0.975 (± 0.003), 0.911 (± 0.007), 0.983 (± 0.010), and 0.803 (± 0.005), respectively, which outperformed available classical CNN models.

Conclusion

The NUN architecture can provide a better classification performance and a straightforward visualization of the results compared to CNNs.
Testing of an enhanced leaf model for improved dose calculation in a commercial treatment planning system
Authors: Van Esch Ann , Kulmala Antti , Rochford Ronan , Kauppinen Juha , Harju Ari
Published: October 2022

Background

With the ever‐increasing complexity of dynamic radiotherapy treatments, dose calculation algorithms are challenged to accurately calculate the dose resulting from small, on‐ and off‐axis multileaf collimator (MLC) aperture movements. Although the currently available Eclipse (Varian Medical Systems, Palo Alto) dose calculation algorithms still use a simplified, binary MLC model, a more advanced and detailed modeling of the MLC could be beneficial for the dose calculation precision of high‐end treatments.

Purpose

To improve the modeling of the MLC in the dose calculation algorithms of the Eclipse treatment planning system, an enhanced MLC attenuation model was constructed through ray tracing through the actual leaf designs for the most commonly used Varian MLC types. The enhanced leaf model (ELM) thus includes the rounded leaf tip shape, the drive screw cutout, and the leaf body thickness. The purpose of this work is to test out this new model and explore possible improvements compared to the previous model.

Methods

Dose calculations were performed in a research Eclipse environment equipped with the original and enhanced MLC model. Measurements were performed on TrueBeam and on Halcyon dual MLC treatment units. Dedicated static and dynamic MLC test plans were designed to challenge the dose calculation and highlight differences between both models while keeping the experimental setup simple in order to minimize measurement uncertainties. Measurements were performed with single ion chambers, 2D ion chamber arrays and film.

Results

The improved MLC model considerably improves the accuracy of the dose calculation for the test fields used in this study. For the TrueBeam MLC, improvements are most prominent for off‐axis dose delivery through narrow (static or dynamic) MLC gaps. For 3 mm narrow sweeping gap deliveries at 12 cm off‐axis, the advanced model agrees within 2% with the measurement, in contrast to the 12% deviation observed with the original MLC model. For the Halcyon MLC, improvements are especially prominent when the leaves of both MLC stacks are aligned, regardless of their position in the field. Sweeping gap measurements improve from a 7%–10% deviation with the original model to within 2% with the new model.

Conclusions

Although test fields designed in this study emphasize the flaws in the original MLC dose calculation model, the enhanced MLC model resolves all of the observed discrepancies, showing excellent on‐ and off‐axis agreements with all of the performed measurements.
A neural network sliding mode method for nonlinear motors
Authors: Zou Hongbo , Zheng Jiawei
Published: October 2022

External disturbance and random noise put forward higher requirements for the stability of motors in daily work. Here, a neural network sliding mode method is showed in this article. First, a new sliding mode surface change rate and a disturbance compensation measure are defined. They reduce the gain value to prevent chattering. Second, to improve the neural network, the adaptive theory is used to update the weights, and a peak‐valley measure is designed to limit the output range. Third, the stability of this method is proved by mathematical derivation of a typical nonlinear system. Last, a typical motor model is built on the Simulink, and the influence of external disturbance and random noise on the motor is analyzed. The result shows the effectiveness of this method.
Interaction between increasing body mass index and spinal cord injury to the probability of developing a diagnosis of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Eisenberg Dan , Arnow Katherine D. , Barreto Nicolas B. , Davis Kristen , LaVela Sherri L. , Frayne Susan M. , Nevedal Andrea L. , Wu Justina , Harris Alex H. S.
Published: October 2022

Background

The prevalence of obesity and comorbidities is high in the population with spinal cord injury (SCI). We sought to determine the effect of SCI on the functional form of the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and risk of developing nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and assess whether SCI‐specific mapping of BMI to risk of developing NAFLD is needed.

Methods

Longitudinal cohort study comparing Veterans Health Administration patients with a diagnosis of SCI to a 1:2 matched control group without SCI. The relationship between BMI and development of NAFLD at any time was assessed with propensity score matched Cox regression models; NAFLD development at 10‐year with a propensity score matched logistic model. The positive predictive value of developing NAFLD at 10 years was calculated for BMI 19–45 kg/m2.

Results

14,890 individuals with SCI met study inclusion criteria, and 29,780 Non‐SCI individuals in matched control group. Overall, 9.2% in SCI group and 7.3% in Non‐SCI group developed NAFLD during the study period. A logistic model assessing the relationship between BMI and the probability of developing a diagnosis of NAFLD demonstrated that the probability of developing disease increased as BMI increased in both cohorts. The probability was significantly higher in the SCI cohort at each BMI threshold (p < 0.01), and increased at a higher rate compared with the Non‐SCI cohort as BMI increased 19–45 kg/m2. Positive predictive value for developing a diagnosis of NAFLD was higher in the SCI group for any given BMI threshold from 19 kg/m2 to BMI 45 kg/m2.

Conclusions

The probability of developing NAFLD is greater in individuals with SCI than without SCI, at every BMI level 19 kg/m2 to 45 kg/m2. Individuals with SCI may warrant a higher level of suspicion and closer screening for NAFLD. The association of SCI and BMI is not linear.
New insight into natural fiber‐reinforced polymer composites as pressure sensors: Experiment, theory, and application
Authors: Costa Cleidineia Cavalcante , Mapa Ludmila Marotta , Kelmer Ana Carolina , Ferreira Sukarno Olavo , Bianchi Rodrigo Fernando
Published: October 2022

Research in hybrid and flexible natural fiber‐reinforced polymer composites has included advances in innovative and environmentally sustainable devices. However, in practice, controversies still exist regarding the relationship between electrical and materials performance targets in a system design context. This work aimed to investigate the alternating conductivity of a novel pressure sensor based on semiconducting polyaniline (PANI)‐coated vegetable fiber (VF, Euterpe oleracea Mart., Acai) in silicone polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) rubber. We used alternating electrical conductivity measurements, σ*(ω) ∝ ωs (frequency range—ω from 1 Hz to 10 MHz; s ~ 0.6), to adjust the optimal operating frequency region to enhance the pressure sensing performance of the PDMS‐PANI‐VF composites. A generalized effective‐medium approach to the pressure‐induced conductivity in terms of loading pressure, percolation regime, and the interpolation between Bruggeman's symmetric and asymmetric media theories was obtained. We have found a solution for inducing percolation in composites with a low concentration of fiber inclusions by uniaxial pressure (P), characterized by the expression σ ∝ (P−P0)t (0 ≤ t ≤ 4.0, 0 ≤ P0 ≤ 250 kPa). The sensor demonstrates maximum sensitivity of 1.5 Pa−1 in the operating electrical frequency from 1 to 100 Hz, and a wide linearity range from 0 to 250 kPa. The result provides new insight into the AC universality, s, and t behaviors of natural fiber‐reinforced polymer composites to enhance pressure sensitivity of a new concept and technology for resource‐efficiency optimization of sustainable environmental devices.
Horizontal meandering in direct numerical simulations of the stable boundary layer
Authors: Stefanello Michel , Frantz Ricardo A. S. , Acevedo Otávio , Degrazia Gervasio , Silvestrini Jorge H.
Published: October 2022

Large‐scale nonturbulent motions are investigated using high‐resolution direct numerical simulations of the turbulent Ekman layer at a moderate Reynolds number. In particular, the role of stable stratification effects in the generation and amplification of large‐scale oscillations in the wind‐speed components and buoyancy is analysed. Eulerian autocorrelation functions (EAFs) and spectral analysis help to describe and characterize such modes as meandering‐like structures. Focus is given to the strong stability cases, where vertical turbulent motions are damped and large‐scale modes drive near‐wall patterns of flow laminarization. Horizontal meandering arises in the near‐wall region when the ratio of vertical wind‐speed variance to horizontal wind‐speed variance decreases to small orders of magnitude. In the case of strong stratification, the characteristic features of meandering motion were identified as negative lobes in the EAF, with corresponding low‐frequency peaks in the horizontal wind speed and buoyancy spectra. The Ekman configuration used reproduced the development of meandering‐like structures satisfactorily in strong stable conditions, as indicated by field observations of the stable boundary layer and its dependence on the level of stratification. At strong stability, the Rotta model constant, which represents the relationship between the dissipation and return to isotropy terms in the velocity variance budget, is shown to vary with stability.
Soil nutrient release and microbial changes after burning of masticated fuels
Authors: Busse Matt , Shestak Carol J. , Hubbert Ken R.
Published: October 2022

Soil temperature extremes are not uncommon when woody fuels are ignited in prescribed burns or wildfires. Whether this leads to substantial loss of soil organic matter or microbial life is unclear. We created a soil heat gradient by burning four levels of masticated woody fuels (0, 34, 101, and 169 Mg ha−1) to determine if heat thresholds produce abrupt changes in soil C, N, microbial biomass, or fungal hyphae. Twenty‐four burns were conducted with masticated fuels overlaying a clay loam soil equilibrated at either 4 or 25% volumetric soil water content. Maximum temperatures ranged from 40 to 450 °C depending on fuel load and soil moisture content, with heat duration (>60 °C) as great as 22 h. Moist soil quenched temperatures two‐ to threefold compared with dry soil at comparable fuel loads. A slight, gradual decline in total C and N was found with increasing temperature and heat duration, reaching a maximum loss of 14–18% of the total at the highest heat load. Available NH4 increased linearly starting at 150–175 °C and reached a maximum 15‐fold increase relative to unburned soil by 450 °C. Nitrification (30 d post‐fire) was low regardless of treatment and was essentially eliminated at the highest temperatures. Microbial biomass declined curvilinearly with increased heating, approaching 65% loss compared with unburned soil, and was most rapid in moist soil once temperatures exceeded 60–70 °C. Ultimately, we found no evidence of abrupt heat thresholds for these common soil properties. Instead, property changes followed a slightly declining trajectory (soil C, N, NO3, fungal hyphae) or a steady incremental increase (NH4) or decrease (microbial biomass).
Functional Ink Formulation for Printing and Coating of Graphene and Other 2D Materials: Challenges and Solutions
Authors: Jafarpour Mohammad , Nüesch Frank , Heier Jakob , Abdolhosseinzadeh Sina
Published: October 2022

The properties of 2D materials are unparalleled when compared to their 3D counterparts; many of these properties are a consequence of their size reduction to only a couple of atomic layers. Metallic, semiconducting, and insulating types can be found and form a platform for a new generation of devices. Among the possible methods to utilize 2D materials, functional printing has emerged as a strong contender because inks can be directly formulated from dispersions obtained by liquid‐phase exfoliation. Printed graphene‐based devices are shifting from laboratory applications toward real‐world and mass‐producible systems going hand in hand with a good understanding of suitable exfoliation methods for the targeted type of ink. Such a clear picture does not yet exist for hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN), the transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), and black phosphorous (BP). Rather, reports of applications of these 2D materials in printed devices are scattered throughout the literature, not yet adding to a comprehensive and full understanding of the relevant parameters. This perspective starts with a summary of the most important features of inks from exfoliated graphene. For h‐BN, the TMDs, and BP, the characteristic properties when exfoliated from solution and strategies to formulate inks are summarized.
Excessive fluoride impairs autophagy flux in ameloblasts which is prevented by the autophagy activator rapamycin
Authors: Yao Shuran , Weng Qingqing , Zhu Yiying , Liu Jialiang , Luo Yinyue , Da Dongxin , Zhang Ying
Published: October 2022

Excessive fluoride intake can cause dental fluorosis during teeth development and growth. However, the mechanisms underlying fluoride‐induced enamel damage are still not fully elucidated. Previously, we observed fluoride‐induced autophagy in ameloblasts, but the effects of fluoride on autophagy flux in ameloblasts remain unclear. Hence, this study aimed to clarify the effects of fluoride and rapamycin, an autophagy activator, on autophagy flux in ameloblasts. This in vitro study used the murine ameloblast‐derived cell line LS8. Cells were treated with different concentrations of sodium fluoride (NaF) to evaluate NaF‐induced cytotoxicity. Using transmission electron microscopy, we observed an increase in the number of autophagosomes with increasing fluoride concentrations. Western blot analyses showed increases in microtubule‐associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3) and SQSTM1 (p62) expression after NaF treatment and an increase in LC3II expression after bafilomycin A1 administration. Together with changes in RFP‐GFP‐LC3 lentivirus expression, this demonstrated that fluoride impaired autophagy flux. Furthermore, we evaluated whether rapamycin can alleviate fluoride‐induced cytotoxicity by restoring autophagy flux. Compared to the NaF‐treated group, LS8 cells cotreated with NaF and rapamycin grew considerably better and had significantly decreased p62 expression. Taken together, these data suggest that fluoride‐induced impaired autophagosome degradation may damage ameloblasts. This provides experimental in vitro evidence and an explanation for the observed NaF‐induced toxicity of ameloblasts. Rapamycin probably alleviates this impairment by decreasing the expression of p62, thereby preventing autophagy defects.
An unusual complication of ear punching in a laboratory mouse
Authors: Stanhope Jessica , Weinstein Philip
Published: October 2022

Ear punching and notching are common methods of identification of laboratory rodents. Concerns have been raised regarding pain and discomfort, infection, thermoregulation and tearing. However, the evidence regarding these potential adverse events is currently limited. In this case report, we describe an unusual complication of ear punching in a laboratory mouse. The mouse had its left ear punched with a single hole at 3 weeks of age. At 11 weeks of age, the mouse caught its left foreleg through its left ear punch up to the level of the shoulder. The mouse's leg was released and the pinna cut to form a notch rather than a hole. To avoid this situation, we suggest that an ear notch be considered rather than an ear punch. This case also highlights the value of daily checks to ensure that the risk of any adverse effects from such unpredictable events is minimised.
Changes in otolaryngology application requirements and match outcomes: Are we doing any better?
Authors: De Ravin Emma , Frost Ariel S. , Godse Neal R. , Shaffer Amber D. , Jabbour Noel , Schaitkin Barry M. , Newman Jason , Mady Leila J.
Published: October 2022

Objectives

Otolaryngology‐specific requirements were piloted to minimize applicant and program burdens. We investigated the impact of introducing and then removing these requirements on Match outcomes.

Methods

2014–2021 National Resident Matching Program® data were examined. The primary outcome was the impact of Otolaryngology Resident Talent Assessment (ORTA; prematch 2017, postmatch 2019) and Program‐Specific Paragraph (PSP; implemented 2016, optional 2018) on applicant numbers and match rates. Secondary survey analysis assessed candidate perceptions of PSP/ORTA.

Results

Applicant numbers declined significantly during PSP/ORTA (18.9%; p = 0.001). With the optional PSP and postmatch ORTA, applicant numbers increased significantly (39.0%; p = 0.002). Examined individually, mandatory PSP was associated with a significant decline in applicants (p = 0.007), whereas postmatch ORTA was associated with significant increases in applicants (p = 0.010). ORTA and PSP negatively impacted the decision to apply to otolaryngology in 59.8% and 51.3% of applicants, respectively. Conversely, match rate success improved significantly from 74.8% to 91.2% during PSP/ORTA (p = 0.014), followed by a significant decline to 73.1% after PSP was made optional and ORTA moved to postmatch (p = 0.002).

Conclusions

ORTA and PSP correlated with decreased applicant numbers and increased match rate success. As programs seek ways to remove barriers to applying to otolaryngology, the potential consequences of an increasing pool of unmatched candidates must also be considered.
Conservation psychology: The future of conservation built upon a legacy
Authors: Cranston Kayla A. , Khalil Kathayoon
Published: October 2022

The role that the social sciences play in conservation has been strengthened and codified over the past 20 years by many important contributions. This includes the influences of Dr. Carol D. Saunders who coined the term “Conservation Psychology” in a 2003 special issue of Human Ecology to identify a more efficient way for those with psychological expertize to work together towards a common mission. In this introduction to Zoo Biology's special issue on Conservation Psychology, we discuss the articles that make up this collection and propose further avenues for research and consideration within the field.
Situationally and Relationally Guided Ethical Conduct for Researchers: A Community-Based Research Project to Design and Develop an ICT Intervention
Authors: Roos Vera , Segalo Puleng , Ntombela Ngenisiwe
Published: October 2022

Growing discomfort with uncritical applications of generic universal ethics to community-based research, prompted us to (1) problematize a decontextualized application of ethics; (2) apply two heuristic constructs—situatedness and relationality—to a community-based project; and (3) propose revised guidelines for researchers in this field. The we-DELIVER project illustrates our processes for obtaining data from older (60+) South Africans to inform the development of a technology-based ecosystem, Yabelana, which gives them access to service information. In three phases (planning, implementation, and dissemination), we present the situatedness of researchers (including student fieldworkers) and communities. Drawing on relationality, we first expanded older participants’ capacity to engage by offering choices and by involving student fieldworkers who shared the same background as the participants to facilitate the use of the technology; and, second, we facilitated optimal interactions by being clear about the nature of the data being collected and by applying social engagement strategies to relate and interact optimally. An optimal interpersonal context preceded technology introduction. The chapter concludes with a plea for reconsideration of current universalized and decontextualized ethical protocols that too often perpetuate situational and relational ignorance. We propose, instead, ethical guidelines for community-based research that engages relationally with participants and best suits their contexts.
Older South Africans’ Cell Phone Use in Diverse Settings: A Baseline Assessment
Authors: Roos Vera , Hoffman Jaco , Erasmus Mianda , Bothma Elizabeth , van der Vaart Leoni
Published: October 2022

Interventions through Information and Communication Technology (ICT) (eInterventions), particularly cell phones, are increasingly regarded as feasible alternatives to address older individuals’ access to social and health care and services. Limited documented evidence of older South Africans’ cell phone use inhibits the full relevant operationalizing of eInterventions. This chapter sets out to present baseline evidence of a cohort of older persons’ cell phone use in South Africa. Two questionnaires, iGNiTe and we-DELIVER, were developed to obtain baseline data of older persons’ cell phone use over a period of six years. Reliability and validity of scales measuring latent factors were investigated using criterion sampling to select older South Africans (n = 430) from four communities (Lokaleng, Ikageng, Potchefstroom, and Sharpeville) in two provinces—North West and Gauteng—which represented varying levels of living standards, educational attainment, and household size. Data were analysed using IBM SPSS 26, the jamovi project, and Mplus 8.6. The study population reported high access to and ownership of cell phones, with connectivity obtained primarily on a pay-as-you-go basis. Although these individuals felt that they were competent to use their phones, they preferred older generation (pushbutton) devices. They mainly used the basic features to maintain contact with older and younger people. Moreover, their competence in using cell phones, although limited, was facilitated through the assistance of younger people, highlighting the importance of intergenerational relations. The baseline findings informed principles and suggestions for planning and implementing eInterventions.
Intergenerational Experiences around Older Persons’ Cell Phone Use in Formal Public Domains
Authors: Roos Vera , Hoffman Jaco , Oduaran Choja
Published: October 2022

Formal intergenerational programming is a neglected aspect of social development in sub-Saharan Africa. This chapter describes interactional experiences between older and younger people around older persons’ cell phone use, situated within formal intergenerational activities in public domains. Qualitative data from older persons (responses to an open-ended question, 14 semi-structured interviews, and 22 focus groups), and from student fieldworkers (younger people unrelated to them) (135 written reflections and two focus groups (n = 25)), were analysed thematically. We found that, before the intergenerational activity, ambivalent perceptions and accompanying tensions were typical, indicating prejudice and intergroup differences on both sides. Participation in formal activities, however, brought mutually rewarding experiences, with expressions and satisfaction of needs (affirmation) and social goals (learning about cell phones). Intergenerational interactions are embedded in broader socio-economic and digital environments and informed by sociocultural norms. Although those in the private domain were not studied specifically, they emerged spontaneously and revealed ambivalence, tension and ineffective relational dynamics as well as supportive and optimal relations. Our intergenerational findings demonstrated that promoting older individuals’ optimal use of technology would require some form of formal intergenerational programming facilitated through effective interactions between older and younger people, which would also bring satisfying experiences to both groups.
Yabelana: Designing and Introducing an Age-Inclusive and Context-Specific Information and Communication (ICT) Ecosystem
Authors: Roos Vera , van Greunen Darelle
Published: October 2022

Rapid developments in technological applications present as yet underexplored opportunities to assist with the impact of population ageing and limited resources. We adopted a sociotechnical paradigm—interlinking the social and technological—to inform the design and introduction, in four phases, of Yabelana (‘sharing of information’), an age-inclusive and context-specific ICT ecosystem. First, drawing on data from the we-DELIVER research project, we defined the situatedness of a cohort of older participants, their needs and preferences in relation to cell phone technology and social systems (intergenerational relations) facilitating their ICT use. Second, the three-part development of the ICT ecosystem was approached pragmatically. Third, to introduce the Yabelana app and USSD code we involved student fieldworkers familiar with the language and culture of the participants. Fourth, the process of collecting, analysing and reporting the fieldworkers’ reflections and older individuals’ experiences informed recommendations for further improvements of Yabelana and of technology artefacts. We conclude that a user-centred and bottom-up approach is not a quick fix for promoting age-inclusiveness in technology. Rather, ICT use is the outcome of a complex combination of older users’ dynamic involvement with technology, their diverse needs and preferences, facilitating social systems (e.g. intergenerational), and broader sociocultural contexts.
Chapter 14: Profile Analysis and Growth Curves
Authors: Mathai Arak , Provost Serge , Haubold Hans
Published: October 2022

Profile analysis is utilized to determine whether two or more groups have a similar profile. Three types of profiles are considered: the coincident, parallel and level profiles. Test statistics are derived for each of the three types for the case of two populations. Extensions of the results to several populations are also considered. Growth curves are discussed as well in this chapter. They are used to identify patterns of growth over time. The likelihood ratio statistic for assessing polynomial growth is derived, and its asymptotic distribution is provided.
Chapter 2: The Univariate Gaussian and Related Distributions
Authors: Mathai Arak , Provost Serge , Haubold Hans
Published: October 2022

This chapter serves as a review of the basic ideas about the univariate Gaussian, or normal, distribution as well as related distributions. Both the real and complex cases are treated. Among other topics, parameter estimation as well as the distribution of quadratic and Hermitian forms are discussed.
Chapter 3: The Multivariate Gaussian and Related Distributions
Authors: Mathai Arak , Provost Serge , Haubold Hans
Published: October 2022

This chapter presents various results pertaining to the real and complex multivariate normal distributions. Moment generating functions, marginal and conditional distributions, as well as parameter estimates, are derived. Additionally, criteria for the independence of quadratic forms are provided. Elliptically contoured distributions are also considered.
Chapter 5: Matrix-Variate Gamma and Beta Distributions
Authors: Mathai Arak , Provost Serge , Haubold Hans
Published: October 2022

We first define the real matrix-variate gamma function, the gamma integral and the gamma density, wherefrom their counterparts in the complex domain are developed. An important particular case of the real matrix-variate gamma density known as the Wishart density is widely utilized in multivariate statistical analysis. Additionally, real and complex matrix-variate type-1 and type-2 beta density functions are defined. Various results pertaining to each of these distributions are then provided. More general structures are considered as well.
Greek State Schools in Germany and the Impact of ‘New’ Migration
Authors: Chatzidaki Aspasia
Published: October 2022

This chapter reports on a qualitative study investigating a particular type of Greek-language education abroad, namely non-mixed or Greek state schools in Germany, and the impact ‘new’ migration has had on their operation. These schools (K-12) follow the Greek curricula and employ teachers seconded from the Greek Ministry of Education. They were originally set up in the 1970s as an educational setting which would help immigrant students in Germany to develop Greek language skills and a Greek ethnocultural identity, eventually facilitating transition in the case of repatriation. Their graduates have the additional benefit of gaining access to Greek universities with relatively low grades, and, as a result, such schools have been a popular option for Greek immigrant families for the last forty years. Following the decision of Greek authorities to start abolishing them in 2011, Greek non-mixed schools saw their students’ numbers wane. ‘New’ migration to Germany (post 2010), however, has led to an important rise in enrolments and a change in the student population profile. According to the findings of a small-scale exploratory study presented in this chapter, teachers in these schools perceive new arrivals as young people traumatised by the migration experience and in need of a familiar physical and symbolic setting. As a result, non-mixed schools are once again considered as important institutions in the current circumstances on the grounds that they offer their students a number of advantages.
Political Claims and the So Called ‘Refugee Crisis’ in the Greek Public Sphere, 2015–16
Authors: Paschou Maria , Loukakis Angelos , Kousis Maria
Published: October 2022

This chapter examines the political contestation on the 2015–16 refugee inflow as it was presented in the Greek press, in a period of heated debate. Using political claims analysis carried out within the context of the TransSOL project, we studied the main attributes of the public discourse as reflected in the political claims of actors located in three national newspapers from August 2015 to April 2016, on refugees and their arrival to Europe. In particular, we examined the protagonists of public debates –both claimants and addressees of public claims– the issues which were discussed, the form in which the claims were raised as an indication of the contentiousness of this field, the positioning –positive or negative– of claims towards refugees, as well as the chronicle of the debate. Two media attention cycles are identified, based on the intensification of claims-making on refugees. This study envisages to contribute to a better understanding of the interplay of different political, social and context-specific influences in the discursive construction of the so called ‘refugee crisis.’
Claiming Cosmopolitan Citizenship: Migrants’ Protests and Border Controls
Authors: Koukouzelis Kostas
Published: October 2022

The chapter will defend the argument that a certain interpretation of migrants’ (particularly refugees in our case) protests against border controls should be taken as a manifestation of claiming cosmopolitan citizenship. The argument has both an empirical and a normative dimension. On the empirical dimension of the argument, we will present and interpret migrants’ protests in Idomeni, Greece, regarding the closure of the EU borders in 2016. Did migrants claim certain rights, such as the right to mobility? Did they claim state citizenship? It will be argued that none of these claims represented their political subjectivity at the time. Moving on to the normative dimension of the argument it will be revealed that there is something inherent in migrants’ acts of protesting that might be taken as claiming cosmopolitan citizenship of a certain kind, challenging, among other things, methodological nationalism. Migrants’ protests challenge border controls, the state’s supposed ‘right to exclude,’ and strive for occupying a ‘place’ in the world.
Bivariate Analysis: Associations, Hypotheses, and Causal Stories
Authors: Tessler Mark
Published: October 2022

Every day, we encounter various phenomena that make us question how, why, and with what implications they vary. In responding to these questions, we often begin by considering bivariate relationships, meaning the way that two variables relate to one another. Such relationships are the focus of this chapter.
Multivariate Analysis: Causation, Control, and Conditionality
Authors: Tessler Mark
Published: October 2022

Theory building and data analyses based on three or more variables offer many possibilities for refining the design and increasing both the sophistication and accuracy of a research project. The chapter discusses control variables and other considerations relating to causal inference. It aso devotes attention to other “third variable” possibilities.
Drivers behind the public perception of artificial intelligence: insights from major Australian cities
Authors: Yigitcanlar Tan , Degirmenci Kenan , Inkinen Tommi
Published: October 2022

Artificial intelligence (AI) is not only disrupting industries and businesses, particularly the ones have fallen behind the adoption, but also significantly impacting public life as well. This calls for government authorities pay attention to public opinions and sentiments towards AI. Nonetheless, there is limited knowledge on what the drivers behind the public perception of AI are. Bridging this gap is the rationale of this paper. As the methodological approach, the study conducts an online public perception survey with the residents of Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, and explores the collected survey data through statistical analysis. The analysis reveals that: (a) the public is concerned of AI invading their privacy, but not much concerned of AI becoming more intelligent than humans; (b) the public trusts AI in their lifestyle, but the trust is lower for companies and government deploying AI; (c) the public appreciates the benefits of AI in urban services and disaster management; (d) depending on the local context, public perceptions vary; and (e) the drivers behind the public perception include gender, age, AI knowledge, and AI experience. The findings inform authorities in developing policies to minimise public concerns and maximise AI awareness.
Percentage Gleason pattern 4 and PI-RADS score predict upgrading in biopsy Grade Group 2 prostate cancer patients without cribriform pattern
Authors: van der Slot Margaretha A. , Seyrek Neslisah , Kweldam Charlotte F. , den Bakker Michael A. , Busstra Martijn B. , Gan Melanie , Klaver Sjoerd , Rietbergen John B. W. , van Leenders Geert J. L. H.
Published: October 2022

Purpose

To identify parameters to predict upgrading in biopsy Grade Group (GG) 2 prostate cancer patients without cribriform and intraductal carcinoma (CR/IDC) on biopsy.

Methods

Preoperative biopsies from 657 men undergoing radical prostatectomy (RP) for prostate cancer were reviewed for GG, presence of CR/IDC, percentage Gleason pattern 4, and tumor length. In men with biopsy GG2 without CR/IDC (n = 196), clinicopathologic features were compared between those with GG1 or GG2 without CR/IDC on RP (GG ≤ 2−) and those with GG2 with CR/IDC or any GG > 2 (GG ≥ 2+). Logistic regression analysis was used to predict upgrading in the biopsy cohort.

Results

In total 283 men had biopsy GG2 of whom 87 (30.7%) had CR/IDC and 196 (69.3%) did not. CR/IDC status in matched biopsy and RP specimens was concordant in 179 (63.3%) and discordant in 79 (27.9%) cases (sensitivity 45.1%; specificity 92.6%). Of 196 biopsy GG2 men without CR/IDC, 106 (54.1%) had GG ≥ 2+ on RP. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that age [odds ratio (OR): 1.85, 95% confidence interval (CI)1.09–3.20; p = 0.025], percentage Gleason pattern 4 (OR 1.54, 95% CI 1.17–2.07; p = 0.003), PI-RADS 5 lesion (OR 2.17, 95% CI 1.03–4.70; p = 0.045) and clinical stage T3 (OR 3.60; 95% CI 1.08–14.50; p = 0.049) were independent parameters to predict upgrading to GG ≥  2+ on RP in these men.

Conclusions

Age, clinical stage T3, percentage Gleason pattern 4 and presence of PI-RADS 5 lesions are independent predictors for upgrading in men with biopsy GG2 without CR/IDC. These findings allow for improved clinical decision-making on surveillance eligibility in intermediate-risk prostate cancer patients.
3D escape: an alternative paradigm for spatial orientation studies in insects
Authors: Bruns Christoph , Labisch Susanna , Dirks Jan-Henning
Published: October 2022

Arthropods and in particular insects show a great variety of different exoskeletal sensors. For most arthropods, spatial orientation and gravity perception is not fully understood. In particular, the interaction of the different sensors is still a subject of ongoing research. A disadvantage of most of the experimental methods used to date to study the spatial orientation of arthropods in behavioral experiments is that the body or individual body parts are fixed partly in a non-natural manner. Therefore, often only the movement of individual body segments can be used to evaluate the experiments. We here present a novel experimental method to easily study 3D-escape movements in insects and analyze whole-body reaction. The animals are placed in a transparent container, filled with a lightweight substrate and rotating around two axes. To verify our setup, house crickets (Acheta domesticus) with selectively manipulated gravity-perceiving structures were analyzed. The spatial orientation behavior was quantified by measuring the time individuals took to escape toward the surface and the angular deviation toward the gravitational vector. These experiments confirm earlier results and therefore validated our experimental setup. Our new approach thus allows to investigate several comprehensive questions regarding the spatial orientation of insects and other animals.
Molecular evidence of Monocercomonas and Acanthamoeba in the feces of captive reptiles
Authors: Tuska-Szalay Barbara , Kelly Hannah , Takács Nóra , Kontschán Jenő , Votýpka Jan , Hornok Sándor
Published: October 2022

Reptiles are frequently kept as pet animals. They are considered as important reservoirs of protozoa with veterinary-medical significance. At a reptile farm in Ireland, fecal samples were collected from 98 captive reptiles, representing 43 species of three orders (Squamata, Testudines, and Crocodylia). After DNA extraction, all samples were screened by conventional PCRs, targeting the ribosomal small subunit (SSU) RNA and alpha-tubulin genes of trichomonads and SSU RNA gene of Acanthamoeba spp. One leopard gecko (Eublepharis macularius) was positive for a not yet reported species/genotype of the genus Monocercomonas, different from M. colubrorum. Various Acanthamoeba genotypes were detected in six reptilian species, i.e., Acanthamoeba genotype T11 in Eunectes notaeus and Heloderma suspectum/horridum; genotype T4 in Varanus exanthematicus, Chlamydosaurus kingii, and Macrochelys temminckii; and the genotype T13 in Iguana iguana. Some of these amoeba species might have clinicopathological significance in both humans and animals. Our findings highlight the importance to monitor pathogenic protozoa in pet as well as wildlife reptiles, as a source of possible infection for animals and humans living nearby.