bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing Structural Racism and Discrimination Along the Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Continuum: A Systematic Review
Authors: Seyedroudbari Sara , Ghadimi Fatemeh , Grady Gabriela , Uzosike Obinna , Nkwihoreze Hervette , Jemmott John B. , Momplaisir Florence
Published: June 2024

Structural racism and discrimination (SRD) is deeply embedded across U.S. healthcare institutions, but its impact on health outcomes is challenging to assess. The purpose of this systematic literature review is to understand the impact of SRD on pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) care continuum outcomes across U.S. populations who could benefit from HIV prevention. Guided by PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic review of the published literature up to September 2023 using PubMed and PsycInfo and included peer-reviewed articles meeting inclusion criteria. At least two authors independently screened studies, performed quality assessments, and abstracted data relevant to the topic. Exposure variables included race/ethnicity and any level of SRD (interpersonal, intra- and extra-organizational SRD). Outcomes consisted of any steps of the PrEP care continuum. A total of 66 studies met inclusion criteria and demonstrated the negative impact of SRD on the PrEP care continuum. At the interpersonal level, medical mistrust (i.e., lack of trust in medical organizations and professionals rooted from current or historical practices of discrimination) was negatively associated with almost all the steps across the PrEP care continuum: individuals with medical mistrust were less likely to have PrEP knowledge, adhere to PrEP care, and be retained in care. At the intra-organizational level, PrEP prescription was lower for Black patients due to healthcare provider perception of higher sex-risk behaviors. At the extra-organizational level, factors such as homelessness, low socioeconomic status, and incarceration were associated with decreased PrEP uptake. On the other hand, healthcare provider trust, higher patient education, and access to health insurance were associated with increased PrEP use and retention in care. In addition, analyses using race/ethnicity as an exposure did not consistently show associations with PrEP continuum outcomes. We found that SRD has a negative impact at all steps of the PrEP care continuum. Our results suggest that when assessing the effects of race/ethnicity without the context of SRD, certain relationships and associations are missed. Addressing multi-level barriers related to SRD are needed to reduce HIV transmission and promote health equity.
US Population Eligibility and Estimated Impact of Tirzepatide Treatment on Obesity Prevalence and Cardiovascular Disease Events
Authors: Wong Nathan D. , Karthikeyan Hridhay , Fan Wenjun
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Tirzepatide promotes weight loss and reduces risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) in adults with overweight and obesity. We examined the number of US adults eligible for tirzepatide and its impact on obesity and CVD events.

Methods

We identified US adults aged ≥ 18 years from the cross-sectional US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2015–2018 eligible for tirzepatide based on SURMOUNT-1 trial eligibility criteria. Weight changes in SURMOUNT-1 from tirzepatide 15 mg treatment were used to project the impact on weight change and obesity prevalence in the population assuming titration to this dosage. We estimated 10-year CVD risks from BMI-based Framingham CVD risk scores before and after applying tirzepatide 15 mg treatment BMI and risk factor effects from SURMOUNT-1, the differences in estimated risks multiplied by the eligible NHANES weighted population representing the estimated “preventable” CVD events.

Results

We identified 4015 US adults (estimated population size of 93.4 million [M]) to fit SURMOUNT-1 eligibility criteria, representing 38% of US adults. When the effects of 15 mg tirzepatide were applied, we estimated 70.6% (65.9 M) and 56.7% (53.0 M) of adults to show ≥ 15% and ≥ 20% reductions in weight, respectively, translating to 58.8% (55.0 M) fewer persons with obesity. Among those without CVD, estimated 10-year CVD risks were 10.1% “before” and 7.7% “after” tirzepatide “treatment” reflecting a 2.4% absolute (and 23.6% relative) risk reduction translating to 2.0 million preventable CVD events over 10 years.

Conclusion

Tirzepatide treatment in appropriate US adults may substantially reduce obesity prevalence and CVD events, impacting beneficially on associated healthcare costs.

Graphical Abstract
Involving Parents in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Children and Adolescents with Conduct Problems: Goals, Outcome Expectations, and Normative Beliefs About Aggression are Targeted in Sessions with Parents and Their Child
Authors: Matthys Walter , Schutter Dennis J. L. G.
Published: June 2024

Children and adolescents with conduct problems participate in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), either in individual or group format, in view of learning social problem-solving skills that enable them to behave in more independent and situation-appropriate ways. Parents must support their child’s learning processes in everyday life and therefore these processes need attention in CBT sessions in which parents and their child participate. The social problem-solving model of CBT previously described (Matthys & Schutter, Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev 25:552–572, 2022; Matthys & Schutter, Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev 26:401–415, 2023) consists of nine psychological skills. In this narrative review we propose that instead of addressing each skill separately in sessions with both parents and their child, therapists work on three schemas (latent mental structures): (1) goals, (2) outcome expectations, and (3) normative beliefs about aggression. Based on social-cognitive and cognitive neuroscience studies we argue that these three schemas affect five core social problem-solving skills: (1) interpretation, (2) clarification of goals, (3) generations of solutions, (4) evaluation of solutions, and (5) decision-making. In view of tailoring CBT to the individual child’s characteristic schemas and associated social problem-solving skills, we suggest that children and adolescents participate in individual sessions with their parents. The therapist uses Socratic questioning in order to find out characteristic schemas of the child, encourage reflection on these schemas, and explore alternative schemas that had previously been outside the child’s attention. The therapist functions as a model for parents to ask their child questions about the relevant schemas with a view of achieving changes in the schemas.
Poly(lactic acid)/nanocellulose biocomposites for sustainable food packaging
Authors: Jacob Jissy , Linson Nihita , Mavelil-Sam Rubie , Maria Hanna J. , Pothan Laly A. , Thomas Sabu , Kabdrakhmanova Sana , Laroze David
Published: June 2024

Considerable interest in food packaging research has been prompted by the rising environmental impact of waste, customer awareness for readily accessible foods with extended shelf life, and ecological consciousness about the scarcity of natural resources. The utilization of plastic-based food packaging has resulted in a significant environmental concern due to the accumulation of substantial quantities of plastic in the surrounding areas. Research efforts are being motivated by ecological and health considerations in the pursuit of developing biodegradable films. Besides, poly(lactic acid) (PLA) has been suggested as a possible substitute for petroleum-based polymers because of its sustainability, simple accessibility, and biodegradability. PLA is a biodegradable plastic made from sugar beet or maize starch that may be fermented by bacteria to generate material with desirable qualities like transparency and rigidity. However, there is a need for further improvement in certain properties of PLA, such as flexibility, toughness, permeability, and thermal properties. One potential approach for enhancing these attributes involves the integration of nano-reinforcement. The utilisation of nanocellulose derived from biomass has garnered significant interest in recent times owing to its renewable nature, ability to biodegrade, impressive mechanical strength, low density, and considerable economic worth. In this study, we present a comprehensive overview of the most up-to-date methods for synthesising nanocellulose and its use as a filler material in the manufacture of PLA nanocomposites for food packaging. In addition, this study examines the emerging challenges and potential advantages associated with the utilization of PLA biocomposites incorporated with nanocellulose in the food packaging sector.
Cantonese natural language processing in the transformers era: a survey and current challenges
Authors: Xiang Rong , Chersoni Emmanuele , Li Yixia , Li Jing , Huang Chu-Ren , Pan Yushan , Li Yushi
Published: June 2024

Despite being spoken by a large population of speakers worldwide, Cantonese is under-resourced in terms of the data scale and diversity compared to other major languages. This limitation has excluded it from the current “pre-training and fine-tuning” paradigm that is dominated by Transformer architectures. In this paper, we provide a comprehensive review on the existing resources and methodologies for Cantonese Natural Language Processing, covering the recent progress in language understanding, text generation and development of language models. We finally discuss two aspects of the Cantonese language that could make it potentially challenging even for state-of-the-art architectures: colloquialism and multilinguality
A scoping literature review of the impact and evaluation of mathematics and statistics support in higher education
Authors: Mullen Claire , Howard Emma , Cronin Anthony
Published: June 2024

This paper presents the results of a systematic scoping literature review of higher education mathematics and statistics support (MSS) evaluation focusing on its impact on students. MSS is defined as any additional organised mathematical and/or statistical aid offered to higher education students outside of their regular programme of teaching by parties within the students’ institution specifically assigned to give mathematical and/or statistical support. The objective of this review is to establish how MSS researchers investigate the effect of MSS on students and what that impact is. Based on a predefined protocol, five databases, the proceedings of eight conferences, two previous MSS literature reviews’ reference lists, and six mathematics education or MSS networks’ websites and reports were searched for publications in English since 2000. A two-round screening process resulted in 148 publications being included in the review which featured research from 12 countries. Ten formats of MSS, seven data sources (e.g., surveys), and 14 types of data (e.g., institution attainment, usage data) were identified with a range of analysis methods. Potential biases in MSS research were also considered. The synthesised results and discussion of this review include the mostly positive impact of MSS, issues in MSS evaluation research thus far, and rich opportunities for collaboration. The role MSS has and can play in mathematics education research is highlighted, looking towards the future of MSS evaluation research. Future directions suggested include more targeted systematic reviews, rigorous study design development, and greater cross-disciplinary and international collaboration.
Consumers’ knowledge and decisions on circularity: Albanian, Polish, and Portuguese perspectives
Authors: Duarte Nelson , Pereira Carla , Grzywińska-Rąpca Małgorzata , Kulli Altin , Goci Enkelejda
Published: June 2024

Although the concept of Circular Economy (CE) has become popular in recent years, the transition towards a CE system requires a change in consumers’ behaviour. However, there is still limited knowledge of consumers’ efforts in CE initiatives. The present paper aims to analyse and compare consumers’ behaviour towards circular approaches and compare the results on items like generation and demographics. 495 answers were collected through a questionnaire from 3 countries (Albania, Poland, and Portugal). Data collected was analysed mainly through a Crosstabs analysis to identify associations or different behaviours regarding nationality, gender, generation, education, and place of residence. From the paper’s findings, we can emphasise that residents of EU countries seem to be more aware of the concept of circular economy. However, price is still a very important factor for EU residents when it comes to deciding on a greener purchase. Albanians (non-EU residents) tend to take a more linear approach when it comes to purchasing a new product regardless of its cost. Regarding the Digital Product Passport, a tool proposed by the European Commission through its Circular Economy Action Plan, non-EU residents have a better understanding of the concept. This tool seems to be more relevant for Millennials and Generation X. Generation Z, i.e., the tech generation, does not show an overwhelming propensity for technological options, such as online buying and digital technologies for a greener society.
Official risk communication for COVID-19 and beyond: can we do a better job?
Authors: Linkov Faina , Cummings Christopher L. , Dausey David J.
Published: June 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic strained the infrastructure of public health systems worldwide and unearthed the social and institutional challenges of operating in a global crisis. This was exacerbated in the United States (U.S.), as public risk communication messages from local, state and federal public officials were rife with conflicting information. In this article, we unpack the perils of flawed risk communication and how it puts people at greater risk for infection and other secondary risks stemming from the pandemic mitigation behaviors. The choice to engage in preventive behaviors, such as social distancing, wearing facemasks, and frequently washing hands, differed dramatically across populations. On one extreme, some individuals, which we call the under-cautious, were hesitant to follow public health guidance regarding preventive behaviors, putting them at risk for COVID-19-associated morbidity. On the other end of this spectrum is another group, the over-cautious, who chose to physically remove themselves from social interactions, going beyond appropriate recommendations from experts to mitigate risk. This group may experience greater secondary risks associated with the pandemic, such as mental health issues, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. The infrastructural and communication challenges encountered during the COVID-19 pandemic must be further explored and mitigated. In the future, these campaigns need to target both the under-cautious and the over-cautious, as both extreme groups can potentially suffer health consequences in a pandemic.
Can we solve the Gamer’s Dilemma by resisting it?
Authors: Luck Morgan
Published: June 2024

The Gamer’s Dilemma (Luck, 2009a) is a paradox concerning the moral permissibility of two types of acts performed within computer games. Some attempt to resolve the dilemma by finding a relevant difference between these two acts (Bartel, 2012; Patridge, 2013; Young, 2016; Nader, 2020; Kjeldgaard-Christiansen, 2020; and Milne & Ivankovic, 2021), or to dissolve the dilemma by arguing that the permissibility of these acts is not as they seem (Ali, 2015; Ramirez, 2020). More recently some have attempted to resist the dilemma by undermining the intuitions supporting it (Montefiore & Formosa, 2022; Formosa et al., 2023). The purpose of this paper is to consider what might follow from such resistance.
Subjective game structures: eliciting alternatives and payoffs to study the properties of social interactions
Authors: Fischer Ilan , Avrashi Shacked , Givon Lior
Published: June 2024

The present study transforms subjective conflict perceptions into formally defined games, tests the reliability of the transformation, and explores the properties of several conflict scenarios. To this end we: (i) develop an illustration-based method that transforms implicit perceptions of expected outcomes and experiences into sets of structured numerical values, termed subjective game structures; (ii) develop a reliability index that compares the properties of two subjective games, allowing to test the consistency of repeatedly elicited games; (iii) empirically test game perceptions across eight conflict scenarios; and (iv) interpret the results in terms of two game taxonomies. The results reveal the capacity of the applied methods to transform vague social scenarios into reliable formal games, point to natural solutions, and show the distribution of games that characterizes each conflict scenario. The newly developed model and tools provide a potent instrument for studying a diverse array of social interactions, ranging from interpersonal relations to trade, political conflicts, and war. They represent invaluable resources for conducting polls, examining implicit attitudes, and assisting in the formulation of political, commercial, and social policies.
Potentials of using real-time data to increase the update frequency of production planning and control strategies in MTO: a discrete event simulation study
Authors: Woschank M. , Dallasega P. , König A. , Hoffelner M.
Published: June 2024

In recent years, production planning and control strategies have gained increasing importance within manufacturing enterprises to stay competitive by enhancing the ability to meet and quickly adapt to the hyper-dynamic requirements of highly volatile markets. In this context, traditional production planning and control strategies like material requirements planning often result in long lead times and high work in progress due to their weak responsiveness to short-term fluctuations in demand. However, new production planning and control strategies and concepts based on the usage of real-time data, as a fundamental principle of Industry 4.0, may have the potential to compensate for the shortcomings of traditional approaches. By using a discrete event simulation based on the data of an electronics manufacturing company, the potential of using real-time data to increase the update frequency in different production planning and control strategies in make to order production systems is analyzed.
Canonial analysis of general relativity formulated with the new metric $$f^{ab}=(-g)^{\alpha }g^{ab}$$
Authors: Klusoň J.
Published: June 2024

In this short note we investigate canonical formalism for General Relativity which is formulated with the metric $$f^{ab}=(-g)^\alpha g^{ab}$$

f

ab

=

(
-
g
)

α

g

ab

. We find corresponding Hamiltonian and we show that constraint structure is the same as in the standard formulation. We also analyze another model when the spatial part of metric $$h^{ij}$$

h

ij

is related with the new one by relation $$a^{ij}=(\det h_{ij})^\beta h^{ij}$$

a

ij

=

(
det

h

ij

)

β

h

ij

and we argue that it corresponds to the gauge fixed version of the General Relativity formulated with the metric $$f^{ab}=(-g)^\alpha g^{ab}$$

f

ab

=

(
-
g
)

α

g

ab

.
Applicability of Start Codon Targeted (SCoT) markers for the assessment of genetic diversity in bread wheat germplasm
Authors: Altaf Muhammad Tanveer , Nadeem Muhammad Azhar , Ali Amjad , Liaqat Waqas , Bedir Mehmet , Baran Nurettin , Ilić Aleksandra , Ilyas Muhammad Kashif , Ghafoor Abdul , Dogan Hamide , Aasim Muhammad , Baloch Faheem Shehzad
Published: June 2024

Research endeavors focused on examining genetic diversity play a pivotal role in advancing agricultural practices, as they furnish valuable insights for breeding programs and the preservation of germplasm. Wheat holds significant global importance as a cereal crop, serving as a primary source of sustenance for almost one-third of the global human population. In the current study, a total of 80 bread wheat genotypes were characterized using the start codon targeted (SCoT) marker system. A set of 14 polymorphic primers yielded a cumulative count of 399 bands with an average of 28.05 bands per primer. The range of diversity markers, such as polymorphism information content (0.26–0.59), effective numbers of alleles (1.27–1.59), Shannon’s information index (0.30–0.51), and gene diversity (0.18–0.34), provided evidence of elevated genetic differences within the examined germplasm. According to the findings of the molecular variance analysis, greater genetic variations are found within populations (92%). The model-based structural approach partitioned the 80 bread wheat genotypes into two distinct populations (Population A and B). The diversity indices based on the structures of the populations revealed that population A had greater diversity compared to population B. Both the principal coordinate analysis and the neighbor-joining analysis also differentiated the 80 different bread wheat genotypes based on their respective collection points. The present crop diversity offers great opportunities for enhancing crop quality and increasing tolerance to environmental challenges, both of which will lead to a reduction in the problem of food insecurity.
Enhancing glucose oxidation: exploring 3D Pt nanowire frameworks for electrochemical studies
Authors: Zaman Tamseel , Akbar Samina , White Joshua S. , Nandhakumar Iris
Published: June 2024

Here, we report the use of highly reproducible free-standing 3D Pt nanowire frameworks (3D Pt NFs) to investigate the electrochemical oxidation of glucose. To create this unique Pt NFs, we utilize a lipidic bicontinuous cubic phase as a template. The resulting Pt NFs exhibits a unique 3D single diamond morphology with Fd3m symmetry. This intricate structure provides a large surface area and high electrocatalytic efficiency, making it more sensitive to glucose detection. Small Angle X-ray Scattering and Transmission electron microscopy investigations provided valuable insights into the nanoarchitecture of 3D Pt NFs. It highlights the interconnected nature of the nanowires and showcases the potential for optimized electrochemical performance. Very high current densities are registered for the glucose oxidation reactions at 3D Pt NFs during cyclic voltammetry investigations. This knowledge aids in the design and development of advanced electrocatalytic systems, fuel cells, biosensors, and other devices that leverage the unique characteristics of the 3D Pt framework.

Graphical abstract

This study explores 3D Pt NFs for electrochemical glucose oxidation. Using a phytantriol template with two non-intersecting aqueous channels (A), Pt is electrodeposited in one channel (B), resulting in the formation of 3D Pt NFs after template washing (C). This approach demonstrates the potential for efficient glucose oxidation in the structured nanowire frameworks.
Fabrication of smooth SAC305 thin film via magnetron sputtering
Authors: Ojha M. , Elmustafa A. A.
Published: June 2024

SAC305 (96.5 wt% Sn, 3 wt% Ag, 0.5 wt%Cu) solder is increasingly becoming popular due to its reliability good characteristics and performance in addition to the environmental concerns and regulations that restrict the use of lead in nano/microelectronic products. In nano/microelectronics, manufacturing smooth solder coatings free of defects such as voids and cracks, which can compromise joint reliability is crucial. Magnetron sputtering offers a high degree of control over film thickness and composition, resulting in films with excellent uniformity and adhesion. Despite these advantages, fabricating continuous and robust SAC305 films using magnetron sputtering remains a difficult task with limited research addressing these Challenges. To address these challenges and obtain an enhanced surface morphology property, we focus on fabricating SAC305 thin films by optimizing the magnetron sputtering parameters including sputtering power and pressure, and by using various substrates. Field emission-scanning electron microscopy imaging, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and atomic force microscopy were used to evaluate the quality of the thin films.
Perioperative ROTEM® evaluation in a patient affected by severe VII factor deficiency undergoing microvascular decompression craniotomy for hemifacial spasm
Authors: Introna Michele , Broggi Morgan , Ferroli Paolo , Martino Donato , Pinto Carmela , Carpenedo Monica , Gemma Marco
Published: June 2024

The potential use of TEG/ROTEM® in evaluating the bleeding risk for rare coagulation disorders needs to be assessed, considering the common mismatch among laboratory tests and the clinical manifestations. As a result, there is currently no published data on the use of viscoelastic tests to assess coagulation in FVII deficient patients undergoing elective neurosurgery. We describe the case of a patient affected by severe FVII deficiency who underwent microvascular decompression (MVD) craniotomy for hemifacial spasm (HFS). The ROTEM® did not show a significant coagulopathy according to the normal ranges, before and after the preoperative administration of the recombinant activated FVII, but a substantial reduction in EXTEM and FIBTEM Clotting Times was noted. The values of coagulation in standard tests, on the contrary, were indicative of a coagulopathy, which was corrected by the administration of replacement therapy. Whether this difference between ROTEM® and standard tests is due to the inadequacy of thromboelastographic normal ranges in this setting, or to the absence of clinically significant coagulopathy, has yet to be clarified. Neurosurgery is a typical high bleeding risk surgery; additional data is required to clarify the potential role for thromboelastographic tests in the perioperative evaluation of the FVII deficient neurosurgical patients.
Fast flux spectrum unfolding of PFTS of KAMINI: an investigation into the viability of radioisotope production
Authors: Bagchi Subhrojit , Chand Manish , Sen Sujoy , Khan Bilal Hassan , Rao J. S. Brahmaji , Kumar G. V. S. Ashok
Published: June 2024

The fast component (0.7–18 MeV) of the neutron spectrum at the Pneumatic Fast Transfer System (PFTS) in the KAMINI reactor was determined by irradiating threshold activation foils. The acquired reaction rates are subsequently unfolded using SAND-II code. The KAMINI reactor was modelled in the MCNP-4B code for an estimate of neutron spectrum at the PFTS location, which was subsequently used as the initial apriori solution for the SAND-II code. The unfolded fast component spectrum at the PFTS was found to be similar to that of the fast benchmark GODIVA and JEZEBEL-23. Moreover, the investigation is substantiated by incorporating modified spectra to estimate the theoretical yield of radioisotopes 32P at PFTS using a Monte Carlo simulation against its experimental yield. The results agree with an accuracy of 6%, affirming the credibility of the derived spectrum. Theoretical yields of 89Sr, 64Cu, and 47Sc were also estimated at the same location.
Insights into dielectric and electrical conductivity dynamics in sol-gel synthesized Ba0.75Ni0.25Tc0.88Mn0.12O3 perovskite ceramic
Authors: Tayari Faouzia , Nassar Kais Iben , Benamara Majdi , Ben Moussa Sana , Alzahrani Abdullah Yahya Abdullah , Teixeira Silvia Soreto , Graça M. P. F.
Published: June 2024

This study presents a comprehensive investigation into the structural, morphological, and electrical properties of sol-gel synthesized Ba0.75Ni0.25Tc0.88Mn0.12O3 perovskite ceramic (BNTMO). The meticulous preparation protocol, involving solvating various precursors, was followed by an extensive characterization employing X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and dielectric studies. XRD analysis affirmed the single-phase single-phase cubic structure with Pm-3m space, while SEM revealed a well-defined morphology with an average particle size of 243 nm. The electrical conductivity exploration, elucidated through Jonscher’s universal power law, provided insights into charge carrier dynamics, exhibiting semiconductor behavior. Impedance spectroscopy unraveled a distinctive relaxation peak, corroborated by Cole-Cole plots, unveiling a unique charge carrier mechanism. Dielectric studies showcased intriguing polarization dynamics, indicating promising applications in energy storage. The convergence of activation energy values from various analyses underscores the coherence in the charge carrier relaxation process. Overall, our findings contribute to a nuanced understanding of the electrical intricacies of BNTMO, presenting avenues for its utilization in advanced technological applications.

Graphical Abstract
Efficient fabrication of paper nanocomposites for superior flame retardancy and strengthening properties
Authors: Hassan Mayar , Diab Mohamed A. , Attia Nour F. , Hegazi Abdelrahman H. , Hagar Mohamed
Published: June 2024

Innovative and cost-effective paper sheets with superior fire safety and reinforcement properties have been developed. The paper sheets were fabricated via valorization of agricultural waste to paper and then coated with nanoparticles. Paper attained from rice straw was used to create the sheets. Afterward, bentonite sheets were incorporated in these sheets, and finally, PbO nanoparticles were coated on prepared paper nanocomposites. The mass ratio of bentonite sheets was altered. The flammability and mechanical properties of the developed paper nanocomposites were studied. The flame retardancy of developed paper nanocomposite was significantly improved achieving LOI value of 24% compared to 20% for bentonite and PbO nanoparticle-free sample. Additionally, the tensile strength was improved recording 44% enhancement compared to unmodified sample. Furthermore, the flame retardancy mechanism was proposed and studied.
Is vehicle weight associated with risky driving behavior? Analysis of complete national records
Authors: Steren Aviv , Rosenzweig Stav , Rubin Ofir D.
Published: June 2024

A clear trend of shifting towards larger, heavier vehicles on roads fuels what has been described as an “arms race.” While larger, heavier vehicles have been shown to benefit the safety of users in the event of a car crash, it is likely that consumers’ experience of this increased safety will lead to behavioral adaptation towards more risky driving behavior. Using complete national data of the car fleet and police-issued speeding tickets over the course of an entire calendar year in Israel, we examined the association between vehicle mass and risky driving behavior in terms of speeding tickets. Controlling for consumers’ choice of car, our results indicate a positive association between vehicle mass and speeding tickets, suggesting that larger, heavier vehicles are associated with risky driving behavior.
Understanding plant tolerance to aluminum: exploring mechanisms and perspectives
Authors: Kocjan Anna , Kwasniewska Jolanta , Szurman-Zubrzycka Miriam
Published: June 2024

Aluminum (Al) is the third, most abundant element in the Earth's crust. When soil pH drops below 5.5, Al is released from minerals, which threatens plant growth. The roots are particularly vulnerable to Al stress because Al ions can penetrate them, causing growth reduction by inhibiting the cell cycle and decreasing root cell elongation. Al has the ability to bind to cell structures, including cell walls, cytoskeleton, or DNA, which disturb their functions. Plants have developed various response strategies, such as the exclusion of organic acids into the rhizosphere or the detoxification of Al in the vacuole. STOP1 (Sensitive To Proton Rhizotoxicity 1) is the critical regulator of the expression of tolerance-related genes and is present in both mono- and dicots plants. The activity of STOP1 can be regulated on post-transcription and post-translation levels. This review paper presents an overview of the latest literature, aiming to accurately present the problem of Al toxicity and its effect on plant functioning. Moreover, the well-studied mechanisms of plant response and future prospects, like the use of polyamines, miRNAs, or DDR (DNA Damage Response) pathway, will be presented, which are opportunities to develop new plant varieties that are tolerant to Al stress.
Patient-reported outcome and experience domains for diagnostic excellence: a scoping review to inform future measure development
Authors: Dukhanin Vadim , Gamper Mary Jo , Gleason Kelly T. , McDonald Kathryn M.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

“Diagnostic excellence,” as a relatively new construct centered on the diagnostic process and its health-related outcomes, can be refined by patient reporting and its measurement. We aimed to explore the scope of patient-reported outcome (PRO) and patient-reported experience (PRE) domains that are diagnostically relevant, regardless of the future diagnosed condition, and to review the state of measurement of these patient-reported domains.

Methods

We conducted an exploratory analysis to identify these domains by employing a scoping review supplemented with internal expert consultations, 24-member international expert convening, additional environmental scans, and the validation of the domains’ diagnostic relevance via mapping these onto patient diagnostic journeys. We created a narrative bibliography of the domains illustrating them with existing measurement examples.

Results

We identified 41 diagnostically relevant PRO and PRE domains. We classified 10 domains as PRO, 28 as PRE, and three as mixed PRO/PRE. Among these domains, 19 were captured in existing instruments, and 20 were captured only in qualitative studies. Two domains were conceptualized during this exploratory analysis with no examples identified of capturing these domains. For 27 domains, patients and care partners report on a specific encounter; for 14 domains, reporting relates to an entire diagnostic journey over time, which presents particular measurement opportunities and challenges.

Conclusion

The multitude of PRO and PRE domains, if measured rigorously, would allow the diagnostic excellence construct to evolve further and in a manner that is patient-centered, prospectively focused, and concentrates on effectiveness and efficiency of diagnostic care on patients’ well-being.
Two Ships of Theseus
Authors: Dranseika Vilius
Published: June 2024

Based on a large cross-cultural study, David Rose et al. (in: Lombrozo et al. (eds) Oxford studies in experimental philosophy, Vol. 3, Oxford University Press, Oxford, pp. 158–174, 2020) argue that the Ship of Theseus story is a genuine puzzle in the sense that people who consider it feel inclined to assert two prima facie inconsistent propositions (Ambivalence). In response, Marta Campdelacreu et al. (Dialectica 74(3):551–559, 2020) argue that the data reported by Rose et al. (2020) fail to support Ambivalence. Namely, the data show sharp interpersonal disagreement among different readers of the Ship of Theseus story, but they fail to demonstrate an intrapersonal conflict or indecision. Should intrapersonal Ambivalence be demonstrated, this, according to Campdelacreu et al. (2020), would be a good indicator of the presence of a puzzle. Here, I provide empirical evidence for intrapersonal Ambivalence about the Ship of Theseus story.
The role of trophic, mutualistic, and competitive interactions in an industrial symbiosis process implementation: an ecological network perspective
Authors: Escandon-Barbosa Diana , Salas-Paramo Jairo , Paque Victor Castrillon
Published: June 2024

For both government and private institutions, the development of collaboration networks becomes an element of great importance for the implementation of related policies such as the circular economy and sustainable practices in manufacturing. Despite the above, such initiatives have not received as much attention in literature but have been decisive as both public and private initiatives. Initiatives in Latin America do not escape this scenario, especially in the creation of conditions that allow the promotion of approaches such as industrial symbiosis. In this way, the present research is aimed at identifying the role of trophic, mutualistic, and competitive interactions in an industrial symbiosis process implementation. A network analysis model is used to achieve this purpose. This technique allows us to know the degree of importance of the different actors that are part of a network, as well as the factors that determine the implementation of initiatives such as industrial symbiosis. Among the results are that empirical findings confirm the presence of trophic interactions that enhance resource efficiency, mutualistic interactions fostering collaboration and synergy, and competitive interactions promoting efficiency and dynamism. Additionally, a green culture, business size, and innovation activities are revealed as influential factors amplifying network dynamics.
Benefits of calorie restriction in mice are mediated via energy imbalance, not absolute energy or protein intake
Authors: Smith Daniel L. , Mitchell Sharon E. , Johnson Maria S. , Gibbs Victoria K. , Dickinson Stephanie , Henschel Beate , Li Rui , Kaiser Kathryn A. , Chusyd Daniella E. , Brown Andrew W. , Allison David B. , Speakman John R. , Nagy Tim R.
Published: June 2024

Caloric restriction (CR) results in reduced energy and protein intake, raising questions about protein restriction’s contribution to CR longevity benefits. We kept ad libitum (AL)–fed male C57BL/6J mice at 27°C (AL27) and pair-fed (PF) mice at 22°C (22(PF27)). The 22(PF27) group was fed to match AL27 while restricted for calories due to cold-induced metabolism. The 22(PF27) mice had significantly lower body weight, lean mass, fat mass, leptin, IGF-1, and TNF-α levels than AL27 mice (p<0.001 for all). Manipulations over ~11 weeks resulted in significant differences in body temperature, physical activity, and expression of key genes linked to hunger in the hypothalamus. Survival was significantly greater in 22(PF27) compared to AL27 overall (p<0.001). CR in the context of equivalent energy and protein intake resulted in hormonal, metabolic, and physiological benefits and extended longevity. Hence, energy imbalance, rather than low energy or protein intake per se, mediates the benefits of CR.
Luxury application of biochar does not enhance rice yield and methane mitigation: a review and data analysis
Authors: Pia Husna Israt , Baek Nuri , Park Seo-Woo , Shin Eun-Seo , Lee Sun-Il , Kim Han-Yong , Tang Shuirong , Cheng Weiguo , Kwak Jin-Hyeob , Park Hyun-Jin , Choi Woo-Jung
Published: June 2024

Purpose

It is unclear whether a higher biochar (BC) application rate enhances rice (Oryza sativa L.) yield and reduces CH4 emissions. This study investigated changes in rice yield and CH4 emissions with varying BC application rates.

Methods

Data on rice yield and CH4 emission from paddies amended with or without BC were collected from the literature, and the biochar effects were analyzed using the data set.

Results

Across the biochar application rate from 2 to 48 t ha-1, the rice yield increased (by 10.8%) while the area-scaled (by 14.4%) and yield-scaled CH4 emission (by 22.2%) decreased. However, the correlation of BC application rates with rice yield and CH4 mitigation was not significant, implying that a higher BC application rate did not enhance rice yield and CH4 reduction. Interestingly, for a data set showing increased rice yield and decreased CH4 emission by BC, the magnitude of change in the rice yield and CH4 mitigation per unit weight of BC (1 t ha-1) decreased with an increase in the BC application rate. These results suggest that BC effects on rice yield and CH4 mitigation are not additive, probably because of the decreases in the inherent capacity of unit weight of BC to enhance rice yield and reduce CH4 emission, which might be caused by the adverse effects of toxic compounds contained in BC, losses of BC, and a higher degree of nutrient immobilization by BC.

Conclusions

Annual BC application at a low rate (e.g., 2 t ha-1) rather than a luxury application may be an effective and economical strategy for long-term rice yield enhancement and CH4 mitigation using BC.
Machine learning models’ assessment: trust and performance
Authors: Sousa S. , Paredes S. , Rocha T. , Henriques J. , Sousa J. , Gonçalves L.
Published: June 2024

The common black box nature of machine learning models is an obstacle to their application in health care context. Their widespread application is limited by a significant “lack of trust.” So, the main goal of this work is the development of an evaluation approach that can assess, simultaneously, trust and performance. Trust assessment is based on (i) model robustness (stability assessment), (ii) confidence (95% CI of geometric mean), and (iii) interpretability (comparison of respective features ranking with clinical evidence). Performance is assessed through geometric mean. For validation, in patients’ stratification in cardiovascular risk assessment, a Portuguese dataset (N=1544) was applied. Five different models were compared: (i) GRACE score, the most common risk assessment tool in Portugal for patients with acute coronary syndrome; (ii) logistic regression; (iii) Naïve Bayes; (iv) decision trees; and (v) rule-based approach, previously developed by this team. The obtained results confirm that the simultaneous assessment of trust and performance can be successfully implemented. The rule-based approach seems to have potential for clinical application. It provides a high level of trust in the respective operation while outperformed the GRACE model’s performance, enhancing the required physicians’ acceptance. This may increase the possibility to effectively aid the clinical decision.

Graphical abstract
The Nexus of ISTE Standards and Academic Progress: A Mapping Analysis of Empirical Studies
Authors: Crompton Helen , Burke Diane
Published: June 2024

Technology has become commonplace in K-12 classrooms with students actively using digital technology to support learning. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether there is empirical support that implementing the ISTE Standards for Students can result in learning gains. A scoping review methodology was used to map extant literature to evidence of learning gains. To ensure transparency in the selection of the articles and the evidence gathering procedure, an a priori method was used. This study is unique in that it provides the first examination of a set of student standards for technology use to learning gains within empirical articles. The findings reveal that there is evidence that all seven of the standards can lead to learning gains. This study is helpful in providing direction and guidance for all, such as educational leaders, teachers, administrators, researchers and policy makers who are looking for a roadmap for effective technology integration that leads to student success.
Efficacy of Beta vulgaris Essential Oils Against Potato Dry Rot Disease and Deoxynivalenol (DON) Mycotoxin
Authors: Zöngür Alper
Published: June 2024

Potato dry rot is a global problem caused by Fusarium species. Symptoms of dry rot include wrinkled brown to black patches of tissue. Fusarium spp. infection in potato tubers results in the formation of mycotoxins. Fungi that cause dry rot are commonly Fusarium sambucinum and Fusarium solani. This article was made to determine the effect of the essential oils of the Beta vulagaris plant on Fusarium species, which is the causative agent of dry rot in potatoes. In the study, Beta vulgaris plant essential oil content was determined by Gas Chromatography (GC–MC). In addition, the amount of deoxynivalenol (DON) mycotoxin produced by Fusarium species was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) analyses. Inhibition rates of these essential oils (1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 250, 500, 1000 µl) on Fusarium sambicunum (1.3, 3.0, 5.2, 7.3, 9.1, 12.7, 22.3, 27.1, 29.1%) were found. Similarly, inhibition rates on Fusarium solani (1.1, 2.8, 4.3, 6.7, 8.8, 10.5, 19.4, 24.7, 27.3%) were found. In addition, the results showed that the amount of deoxynivalenol DON in 25 potato tubers ranged from 44.1–172.6 ppb. Infections of potato tubers caused by certain Fusarium species are typically accompanied by mycotoxin production, thus posing a potential risk to human health and food safety. In this study, it was determined that the essential oils of Beta vulgaris plant were effective against Fusarium spp., which are the cause of dry rot disease that may occur in potatoes.
Self-supervised learning for classifying paranasal anomalies in the maxillary sinus
Authors: Bhattacharya Debayan , Behrendt Finn , Becker Benjamin Tobias , Maack Lennart , Beyersdorff Dirk , Petersen Elina , Petersen Marvin , Cheng Bastian , Eggert Dennis , Betz Christian , Hoffmann Anna Sophie , Schlaefer Alexander
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Paranasal anomalies, frequently identified in routine radiological screenings, exhibit diverse morphological characteristics. Due to the diversity of anomalies, supervised learning methods require large labelled dataset exhibiting diverse anomaly morphology. Self-supervised learning (SSL) can be used to learn representations from unlabelled data. However, there are no SSL methods designed for the downstream task of classifying paranasal anomalies in the maxillary sinus (MS).

Methods

Our approach uses a 3D convolutional autoencoder (CAE) trained in an unsupervised anomaly detection (UAD) framework. Initially, we train the 3D CAE to reduce reconstruction errors when reconstructing normal maxillary sinus (MS) image. Then, this CAE is applied to an unlabelled dataset to generate coarse anomaly locations by creating residual MS images. Following this, a 3D convolutional neural network (CNN) reconstructs these residual images, which forms our SSL task. Lastly, we fine-tune the encoder part of the 3D CNN on a labelled dataset of normal and anomalous MS images.

Results

The proposed SSL technique exhibits superior performance compared to existing generic self-supervised methods, especially in scenarios with limited annotated data. When trained on just 10% of the annotated dataset, our method achieves an area under the precision-recall curve (AUPRC) of 0.79 for the downstream classification task. This performance surpasses other methods, with BYOL attaining an AUPRC of 0.75, SimSiam at 0.74, SimCLR at 0.73 and masked autoencoding using SparK at 0.75.

Conclusion

A self-supervised learning approach that inherently focuses on localizing paranasal anomalies proves to be advantageous, particularly when the subsequent task involves differentiating normal from anomalous maxillary sinuses. Access our code at https://github.com/mtec-tuhh/self-supervised-paranasal-anomaly.