bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Longitudinal associations between child discipline methods and physical growth patterns across preschool years
Authors: Wong Rosa S. , Tung Keith T. S. , Ho Frederick K. W. , Rao Nirmala , Chan Ko Ling , Ip Patrick
Published: January 2024

Objective

Research has documented the associations of child maltreatment with a range of physical health problems, but little is known about the physical growth patterns of children who experience maltreatment in early childhood. This study aimed to examine the association between various discipline approaches and physical growth in preschool‐aged children.

Methods

In the first year of preschool, parents of 661 Chinese preschool‐aged children completed a questionnaire with items pertaining to the frequency of using physical maltreatment, psychological aggression, neglect, and nonviolent discipline toward the child. Children's weight and height were assessed annually using direct assessment in the first and two subsequent years. Longitudinal analyses were performed using multiple regression models.

Results

More frequent neglect and psychological aggression during the first year of preschool were associated with a higher likelihood of a decreased BMI z score in subsequent years. Conversely, increased experience of physical maltreatment in the first year was associated with an increased likelihood of having overweight or obesity in the third year.

Conclusions

Results indicate that early maltreatment experience can impact physical growth. This highlights the importance of preventing abusive parenting and encouraging healthy habits in young children who have experienced maltreatment to decrease their future risk for weight problems.
A Single Center Description of Adult and Pediatric Endoscopic Posterior Costal Cartilage Grafting
Authors: Richard Kelsey , Gelbard Alexander , Daniero James , Wootten Christopher T.
Published: January 2024

Objective

Posterior glottis impairment alters breathing, voicing, and swallowing. Bilateral vocal fold movement impairment (BVFMI) occurs when the vocal cords are fixed/remain midline. Studies inadequately assessed endoscopic posterior costal cartilage grafting (enPCCG) for BVFMI across broad ages. We aim to assess decannulation and prosthesis free airway in children and adults who have undergone enPCCG.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort.

Setting

Referral center.

Methods

This study included adults and children who received enPCCG for BVFMI (2010‐2018) and were followed for 35 months on average. The main outcome was successful decannulation of patients, or airway improvement in those without tracheostomy. Data on comorbidities, surgical complications, and interventions following surgery were collected.

Results

Ten children and 11 adults underwent enPCCG for BVFMI. Eighty‐one percent of patients had a tracheostomy at surgery; adults were more likely to have a tracheostomy at surgery (P = 0.035), and to undergo double‐staged procedure (P = 0.035) and stent (P = 0.008). Average stent duration was 29.7 days. Overall decannulation rate was 76% (90% for children; 70% for adults). Children were more likely to receive postoperative intensive care unit care (P = 0.004). Adults had mean 4.4 post‐enPCCG interventions per patient compared to children's mean 3.91 interventions. The most common interventions were steroid injection (17.6%) and balloon dilation (16%). Preliminary analysis suggests postoperative dysphonia was reported in 66.7% of patients; postoperative dysphagia was rare.

Conclusion

EnPCCG was more successful at achieving decannulation in children. Adults required additional interventions. A double‐staged operation with prolonged stenting is recommended for adult patients. A majority of patients were decannulated at last follow‐up.
Network pharmacology combined with molecular docking simulations reveal the mechanism of action of Glycyrrhiza for treating pneumonia
Authors: Yang Dongxin , Li Zhehong , Peng Yongrui , Zhu Xiaofeng , Gong Jun , Chen Cuilian
Published: January 2024

A well‐established mechanism of action for managing pneumonia using Glycyrrhiza is unknown. Using network pharmacology and molecular docking simulations, we investigated the mechanism of action of Glycyrrhiza against pneumonia. To identify the targets of the active components of Glycyrrhiza from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology database, oral bioavailability and drug likeness were utilized as indicators. Pneumonia‐associated genes were identified and screened from the databases. Integrated analysis was conducted to elucidate the relationship between the active components of Glycyrrhiza and intersecting genes; a comprehensive Glycyrrhiza active component‐target gene relationship map was constructed. Intersecting genes underwent Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analyses to examine their biological functions. A protein–protein interaction network map was constructed to identify hub genes. Molecular docking simulations were performed to investigate binding interactions between hub genes and their corresponding active components. Of the 96 overlapping genes, topological analysis revealed 10 hub genes. Glycyrrhiza exerts therapeutic effects through a multi‐target and multipathway approach, suggesting a synergistic treatment for pneumonia. MAPK14 showed a favorable binding affinity with most of the active compounds, indicating that MAPK14 and related compounds in Glycyrrhiza have development potential.
Synthesis and post‐polymerization modification of poly(diglycidyl fumarate)s and their thermal properties
Authors: Mori Yasuyuki , Tada Ryu , Okano Ippei , Tamaso Ken‐ichi , Ogawa Ryo , Shinozuka Toyofumi , Furusho Yoshio , Endo Takeshi
Published: January 2024

The radical polymerization of diglycidyl fumarates was performed to give the poly(fumarate)s bearing epoxy groups in the side chains. Their post‐polymerization modification with carbon dioxide afforded the poly(fumarate)s containing the five‐membered cyclic carbonate structures by the reaction of epoxy groups in the polymer side chains with carbon dioxide. Besides, the thermal stability and behavior of the obtained poly(fumarate)s were examined by thermogravimetric and differential scanning calorimetry analyses.
A critical review of the significance of elitism and pluralism to disaster risk management
Authors: Chipangura Paul , Van Niekerk Dewald
Published: January 2024

Disasters and disaster risks are social phenomena that take place in a political space shaped by different political ideologies. Despite this connection, the field of disaster risk management has been developed without a deliberate incorporation of political theories. Using a narrative literature review methodology, this paper sought to elucidate the significance of political theory in shaping both the policy and practice of disaster risk management. The review reveals notable intersections between political theories, such as elitism and pluralism, and established disaster risk management paradigms, specifically objectivism and constructivism. Notably, elitism and objectivism tend to promote expertise, marginalize citizen participation, and emphasize centralized disaster management, whereas pluralism and constructivism advocate for diversity, tolerance, and competition, aligning with the concept of disaster risk management. The paper argues that ignoring political theories in disaster risk management can conceal a deeper understanding of the power relations between different stakeholders, as well as the historical, economic, social, and political characteristics of a society. It advocates for future studies to examine the contributions of political theories explicitly and critically to disaster risk policies and practices. This call highlights the need for a deeper understanding of how political theories impact the effectiveness and equity of disaster risk management.
Combined exposure of nano‐titanium dioxide and polystyrene nanoplastics exacerbate oxidative stress‐induced liver injury in mice by regulating the Keap‐1/Nrf2/ARE pathway
Authors: Jia Tiantian , Nie Penghui , Xu Hengyi
Published: January 2024

It is well known that polystyrene nanoplastics (PS‐NaP) and nano‐titanium dioxide (TiO2 NPs) are frequently co‐appeared in daily life and can cause liver injury when they accumulate in the liver. Nonetheless, the combined toxicological impacts and potential molecular mechanisms of PS‐NaP and TiO2 NPs in the hepatic system have not been revealed. Thus, we conducted experiments on C57BL/6 mice exposed to PS‐NaP or/and TiO2 NPs for 4 weeks. The findings suggested that PS‐NaP and TiO2 NPs co‐exposed significantly altered the hepatic function parameters, levels of antioxidant‐related enzymes and genes expression of Keap‐1/Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway, as well as significantly increased the hepatic Ti contents, aggravated hepatic pathological and oxidative stress (OS) damage compared with individual exposure to PS‐NaP or TiO2 NPs. Using N‐Acetyl‐L‐cysteine (NAC), an OS inhibitor, we further demonstrated that OS played a pivotal role in coexposure‐induced liver injury. NAC reduced the levels of OS in mice, which mitigated co‐exposure‐induced liver injury. Taken together, we proposed that PS‐NaP and TiO2 NPs co‐exposed activated the Keap‐1, then inhibited the recognition of Nrf2 and ARE, consequently exacerbated liver injury. These findings shed light on the co‐toxicity and potential mechanism of nanoplastics and nanoparticles, which informed the risk assessment of human exposure to environmental pollutants.
Pharmaceutical emerging micropollutants potential in septic tanks: Its fate and transport study in Indonesia – A literature review
Authors: Wardhani Widhowati Kesoema , Soedjono Eddy Setiadi , Titah Harmin Sulistiyaning , Mardyanto Mas Agus
Published: January 2024

Micropollutants also known as “emerging micropollutants” (EMPs) have gained significant attention in research, with a particular emphasis on the ocean, marine water, and river pollution. The interest arises from the impact of EMPs on aquatic ecosystems, often originating from sources such as wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) and septic tanks leakage. However, EMPs pollution in surface water can also be caused by leakage of septic tanks. In Indonesia, where septic tanks maintenance is generally neglected, there is a potential risk of EMPs contamination. The outcome and transformation of EMPs, as well as their potential transport pathways, are influenced by sanitary conditions and the effectiveness of existing septic tanks. This concern has escalated to the point of causing fecal contamination in drinking water sources. Therefore, this research focuses on EMPs, specifically pharmaceutical EMPs, leakage from septic tanks, and their possible fate and transport. It also discusses related perspectives of previous research related to EMPs contamination due to leakage of septic tanks.
Veterinarians’ knowledge and experience of avian influenza and perspectives on control measures in the UK
Authors: Jewitt Sarah , McClaughlin Emma , Elliott Sol , Smallman‐Raynor Matthew , Clark Michael , Dunham Stephen , Tarlinton Rachael
Published: January 2024

Background

The scale of the outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in 2021–23 due to the influenza A/H5N1 virus is unprecedented.

Methods

An online survey was designed to explore veterinarians’ experiences of and confidence in treating avian species, experiences of dealing with suspected HPAI and perspectives on control measures in the UK. The survey ran between December 2021 and March 2022.

Results

Survey responses were received from 26 veterinarians. Although veterinarians are well placed to communicate HPAI‐related information and guidance, a lack of confidence around treating birds and dealing with suspected cases of HPAI represent key barriers for non‐specialist practices, and this limits opportunities to educate clients.

Limitations

This study presents the views of a small group of self‐selected respondents and may over‐represent veterinarians with existing interests in avian species and/or avian influenza and who engage with online fora.

Conclusions

Improved training and resources designed to increase confidence with avian species, along with guidance on diagnosing and reporting notifiable diseases, are needed for first opinion practices. Governing bodies should clarify regulations on treating birds in veterinary practices when HPAI outbreak numbers are high.
Symmetry breaking and consistent truncations from M5-branes wrapping a disc
Authors: Bomans Pieter , Couzens Christopher , Lee Yein , Ning Sirui
Published: January 2024

Abstract

We construct new supersymmetric solutions corresponding to M5-branes wrapped on a topological disc by turning on additional scalars in the background. The presence of such scalar fields breaks one of the U(1) isometries of the internal space, explicitly realising the breaking by the Stückelberg mechanism observed previously. In addition, we construct a consistent truncation of maximal seven-dimensional gauged supergravity on the disc to five-dimensional Romans’ SU(2) × U(1) gauged supergravity, allowing us to construct a plethora of new supergravity solutions corresponding to more general states in the dual SCFTs as well as solutions corresponding to M5-branes wrapping four-dimensional orbifolds.
Approximating the chromatic polynomial is as hard as computing it exactly
Authors: Bencs Ferenc , Huijben Jeroen , Regts Guus
Published: January 2024

We show that for any non-real algebraic number q, such that
$$|q-1|>1$$

|
q
-
1
|
>
1

or $$\Re(q)>\frac{3}{2}$$

ℜ

(
q
)

>

3
2

it is #P-hard to compute
a multiplicative (resp. additive) approximation to the absolute
value (resp. argument) of the chromatic polynomial evaluated at q on planar graphs. This implies #P-hardness for all
non-real algebraic q on the family of all graphs. We, moreover,
prove several hardness results for q, such that $$|q-1|\leq 1$$

|
q
-
1
|
≤
1

.

Our hardness results are obtained by showing that a polynomial time
algorithm for approximately computing the chromatic
polynomial of a planar graph at non-real algebraic q (satisfying
some properties) leads to a polynomial time algorithm for
exactly computing it, which is known to be hard by a result
of Vertigan. Many of our results extend in fact to the more general
partition function of the random cluster model, a well-known
reparametrization of the Tutte polynomial.
Design and implementation of an innovative canned cycle for variable pitch thread cutting on CNC milling machines
Authors: Omirou Sotiris L. , Chasos Charalambos A.
Published: January 2024

This paper presents the development of a new canned cycle for CNC milling machines capable of cutting threads with variable pitch, addressing a significant limitation in modern CNC systems. While existing CNC milling machines provide canned cycles for thread cutting, they lack the capability to program variable pitch, necessitating reliance on CAM systems. In response, the proposed canned cycle offers increased flexibility, quicker setup times, and reduced dependence on CAM systems. The cycle accommodates both internal and external threads, supports left-hand or right-hand threading, and incorporates a user-friendly control panel for easy programming. To validate its efficiency, the canned cycle is implemented using a G-code parametric algorithm, and a series of simulation tests are conducted. The results demonstrate the viability and advantages of the new CNC milling feature in cutting threads with variable pitch, opening up possibilities for various mechanical applications.
A novel cross-docking EOQ-based model to optimize a multi-item multi-supplier multi-retailer inventory management system
Authors: Khakbaz Amir , Alfares Hesham K. , Amirteimoori Arash , Tirkolaee Erfan Babaee
Published: January 2024

Nowadays, the retail industry accounts for a large share of the world’s economy. Cross-docking is one of the most effective and smart inventory management systems used by retail companies to respond to demands efficiently. In this study, the aim is to develop a novel cross-docking EOQ-based model for a retail company. By considering a two-stage inventory procurement process, a new multi-item, multi-supplier, multi-retailer EOQ model is developed to minimize the total inventory costs. In the first stage, the required items are received from suppliers and are held in a central warehouse. In the second stage, these items are delivered to several retail stores. The total inventory costs include four main parts, i.e., holding costs at the central warehouse, holding costs at the retail stores, fixed ordering costs from the suppliers, and fixed ordering costs from the central warehouse. The optimal inventory policy is obtained by analyzing extrema, and a numerical example is used to confirm the efficiency of the proposed model. Based on the obtained results, it is evident that the proposed model produces the optimal policy for the cross-docking system. Furthermore, the model enables managers to analyze the effects of key factors on the costs of the system. Based on the obtained results, the annual demand of each retailer, the ordering cost by the central warehouse, the ordering cost at each retail store, and the holding cost at each retail store have a direct impact on the optimal cost. Furthermore, it is not possible to describe the effects of the holding cost at the central warehouse on the optimal cost of the system generally.
Assessment of the cardiac output at rest and during exercise stress using real-time cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging in HFpEF-patients
Authors: Schulz Alexander , Mittelmeier Hannah , Wagenhofer Lukas , Backhaus Sören J. , Lange Torben , Evertz Ruben , Kutty Shelby , Kowallick Johannes T. , Hasenfuß Gerd , Schuster Andreas
Published: January 2024

This methodological study aimed to validate the cardiac output (CO) measured by exercise-stress real-time phase-contrast cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) in patients with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). 68 patients with dyspnea on exertion (NYHA ≥ II) and echocardiographic signs of diastolic dysfunction underwent rest and exercise stress right heart catheterization (RHC) and CMR within 24 h. Patients were diagnosed as overt HFpEF (pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) ≥ 15mmHg at rest), masked HFpEF (PCWP ≥ 25mmHg during exercise stress but < 15mmHg at rest) and non-cardiac dyspnea. CO was calculated using RHC as the reference standard, and in CMR by the volumetric stroke volume, conventional phase-contrast and rest and stress real-time phase-contrast imaging. At rest, the CMR based CO showed good agreement with RHC with an ICC of 0.772 for conventional phase-contrast, and 0.872 for real-time phase-contrast measurements. During exercise stress, the agreement of real-time CMR and RHC was good with an ICC of 0.805. Real-time measurements underestimated the CO at rest (Bias:0.71 L/min) and during exercise stress (Bias:1.4 L/min). Patients with overt HFpEF had a significantly lower cardiac index compared to patients with masked HFpEF and with non-cardiac dyspnea during exercise stress, but not at rest. Real-time phase-contrast CO can be assessed with good agreement with the invasive reference standard at rest and during exercise stress. While moderate underestimation of the CO needs to be considered with non-invasive testing, the CO using real-time CMR provides useful clinical information and could help to avoid unnecessary invasive procedures in HFpEF patients.
ISCEV and IPS guideline for the full-field stimulus test (FST)
Authors: Jolly J. K. , Grigg J. R. , McKendrick A. M. , Fujinami K. , Cideciyan A. V. , Thompson D. A. , Matsumoto C. , Asaoka R. , Johnson C. , Dul M. W. , Artes P. H. , Robson A. G.
Published: January 2024

The full-field stimulus test (FST) is a psychophysical technique designed for the measurement of visual function in low vision. The method involves the use of a ganzfeld stimulator, as used in routine full-field electroretinography, to deliver full-field flashes of light. This guideline was developed jointly by the International Society for Clinical Electrophysiology of Vision (ISCEV) and Imaging and Perimetry Society (IPS) in order to provide technical information, promote consistency of testing and reporting, and encourage convergence of methods for FST. It is intended to aid practitioners and guide the formulation of FST protocols, with a view to future standardisation.
Concentrations and health risks of selected elements in leafy vegetables: a comparison between roadside open-air markets and large stores in Johannesburg, South Africa
Authors: Adhikari Sutapa , Struwig Madeleen
Published: January 2024

This study compared concentrations and health risks of selected elements (Al, As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, Zn) in leafy vegetables (coriander, lettuce, mint, spring onion, swiss chard) from roadside open-air markets (OM) and large stores (supermarkets: SM, vegetable markets: VM) in Johannesburg, South Africa. Along with washed leaves (OMW, SMW, VMW), unwashed OM leaves (OMUW) were assessed to investigate the contribution of deposition. The findings revealed that OMUW leaves had the highest concentrations of all elements. Furthermore, compared with washed leaves, OMUW leaves showed significantly higher (p < 0.05) mean concentrations of Cd, Hg, Ni and Pb, elements that typify the composition of polluted urban air. Bi- and multivariate analysis indicated anthropogenic origin of most elements in OM leaves and several in SMW and VMW leaves. Although only OMUW leaves exhibited hazard quotient above the safe threshold of 1 for Cd, Cr, As and Ni, hazard index exceeded this safe limit in all samples (OMUW (11.77) > OMW (1.83) > SMW (1.29) > VMW (1.01)). Determined cancer risk for Cd and As was greater than 1 × 10−6 in both washed and unwashed leaves, and the greatest cancer risk was estimated for OM leaves. Thorough washing of OM vegetables with water reduced non-carcinogenic risk (84%) and cancer risk (74‒87%) markedly. In conclusion, residents primarily relying on open-air markets for their regular leafy vegetable supplies might face far more severe lifelong health implications compared to customers of large stores in Johannesburg.
High capacitive pt and NiOx loaded supercapacitors with commercial and green synthesized carbon-based materials
Authors: Demirel Serkan , Nas Mehmet Salih , Kocyigit Adem , Calimli Mehmet Harbi , Alma Mehmet Hakkı
Published: January 2024

Supercapacitors have gained great interest due to their high-power energy density, suitability for clean energy and energy storage applications. In this study, we used commercial multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT), polypyrrole (PPy) and synthesized porous carbon (PC) from Astragalus brachycalyx plant as supporting materials to prepare Pt-NiOx/PPy-MWCNT and Pt-NiOx/PC electrodes by a straightforward method and tested their electrochemical properties for supercapacitor applications. X-ray diffractometer (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) were employed to characterize synthesized electrodes. The XRD results confirmed the composition and crystalline structure of related materials in the Pt-NiOx/PPy-MWCNT and Pt-NiOx/PC electrodes. While the MWCNT supporting materials with PPy exhibited filled rod like structure, PC supporting materials showed porous surfaces according to SEM images. The EDS analysis approved chemical composition of the Pt-NiOx/PPy-MWCNT and Pt-NiOx/PC depending on their ingredients. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) measurements were used to characterize capacitor behaviors of the electrode materials in a Swagelok-type cell. The Pt-NiOx/PPy-MWCNT and Pt-NiOx/PC materials displayed 252.36 F/g and 390.97 F/g capacitance values, respectively. The electrochemical experiments revealed that the synthesized materials can be used as energy storage electrode materials for supercapacitor applications.
Differential DNA methylation and CTCF binding between the ESR1 promoter a of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells
Authors: Montes-de-Oca-Fuentes Edén Víctor , Jácome-López Karina , Zarco-Mendoza Anaís , Guerrero Georgina , Ventura-Gallegos José Luis , Juárez-Méndez Sergio , Cabrera-Quintero Alberto Jose , Recillas-Targa Félix , Zentella-Dehesa Alejandro
Published: January 2024

Background

ESR1 is expressed by 60–70% of breast tumours. it’s a good prognosis factor and the target of hormone therapy. Optimization of ESR1 reactivation therapy is currently ongoing. Here we probe if the transcription factor CTCF plays a role in the differential expression of ESR1 in the breast cancer cell lines MCF-7 (ESR1+) and MDA-MB-231 (ESR1-).

Methods and results

Knockdown of CTCF in MCF-7 resulted in decreased ESR1 gene expression. CTCF binds to the promoter of ESR1 in MCF-7 but not in MDA-MB-231 cells. CTCF ESR1 binding sites are unmethylated in MCF7 but methylated in MDA-MB-231 cells.

Conclusion

ESR1 expression in MCF7 cells is dependent on CTCF expression. CTCF can bind to specific regions of the promotor of ESR1 gene in MCF-7 cells but not in MDA-MB-231 cells, this correlates with the methylation status of these regions and could be involved in the transcriptional regulation of ESR1.
The quality of life of frequently vs. infrequently screened HPV vaccinated women
Authors: Taavela Kaisa , Eriksson Tiina , Huhtala Heini , Bly Anne , Harjula Katja , Heikkilä Kaisa , Hokkanen Mari , Nummela Mervi , Kotaniemi-Talonen Laura , Lehtinen Matti , Louvanto Karolina
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Cervical lesions caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) are related to decreased quality of life (QoL) of women. Also, cervical cancer (CC) screening can cause psychological adverse effects. It has been assumed that by decreasing the HPV-related disease burden, HPV vaccinations would increase the QoL. This study compares the effect of CC screening on QoL of HPV vaccinated women in two different screening protocols.

Methods

A total of 753 HPV16/18 vaccinated women were randomized to frequent (22/25/28 years of age) and infrequent (28 years of age) CC screening arms. QoL questionnaires (EQ VAS, RAND 36, amended CECA 10) were sent at the age of 28.

Results

Median EQ VAS scores were 80 (Q1–Q3 75–90) in both screening arms. Mean RAND 36 scores of frequently and infrequently screened women were 78.13/81.64 in Physical role functioning domain and, respectively, 77.93/80.18 in Pain, 69.10/69.12 in General Health, 54.67/53.61 in Energy, 83.72/85.11 in Social functioning, 69.53/69.68 in Emotional role functioning, and 68.16/69.29 in Emotional well-being domain. Among women with a self-reported history of Pap cytology abnormalities, overall mean scores of amended CECA 10 were 69.52/72.07, and among women with a self-reported history of genital warts, 60.09/66.73, respectively.

Conclusion

There was no significant difference in the QoL of HPV vaccinated women between the two CC screening arms. Women were mostly satisfied with the screening experience despite the screening frequency. This information is important for the future screening program planning as we need to reach the best possible balance with screening benefits and harms.

Trial registration number

NCT02149030, date of registration 29/5/2014.
Anthropological Crisis or Crisis in Moral Status: a Philosophy of Technology Approach to the Moral Consideration of Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Llorca Albareda Joan
Published: January 2024

The inquiry into the moral status of artificial intelligence (AI) is leading to prolific theoretical discussions. A new entity that does not share the material substrate of human beings begins to show signs of a number of properties that are nuclear to the understanding of moral agency. It makes us wonder whether the properties we associate with moral status need to be revised or whether the new artificial entities deserve to enter within the circle of moral consideration. This raises the foreboding that we are at the gates of ananthropological crisis: the properties bound to moral agency have been exclusively possessed in the past by human beings and have shaped the very definition of being human. In this article, I will argue that AI does not lead us to an anthropological crisis and that, if we adhere to the history and philosophy of technology, we will notice that the debate on the moral status of AI uncritically starts from an anthropology of properties and loses sight of the relational dimension of technology. First, I will articulate three criteria for analyzing different anthropological views in philosophy of technology. Second, I will propose six anthropological models: traditional, industrial, phenomenological, postphenomenological, symmetrical, and cyborg. Third, I will show how the emergence of AI breaks with the dynamics of increased relationality in the history and philosophy of technology. I will argue that this aspect is central to debates about the moral status of AI, since it sheds light on an aspect of moral consideration that has been obscured. Finally, I will reject entirely relational approaches to moral status and propose two hybrid possibilities for rethinking it.
Hall classes of groups
Authors: de Giovanni F. , Trombetti M. , Wehrfritz B. A. F.
Published: January 2024

In 1958, Philip Hall (Ill J Math 2:787–801, 1958) proved that if a group G has a nilpotent normal subgroup N such that $$G/N'$$

G
/

N
′

is nilpotent, then G is nilpotent. The scope of Hall’s nilpotency criterion is not restricted to group theory, and in fact similar statements hold for Lie algebras and more generally for algebraically coherent semiabelian categories (see Chao in Math Z 103:40–42, 1968; Gray in Adv Math 349:911–919, 2019; Stitzinger in Ill J Math 22:499–505, 1978). We say that a group class $${\mathfrak {X}}$$
X
is a Hall class if it contains every group G admitting a nilpotent normal subgroup N such that $$G/N'$$

G
/

N
′

belongs to $${\mathfrak {X}}$$
X
. Thus, Hall’s nilpotency criterion just asserts that nilpotent groups form a Hall class. Many other relevant classes of groups have been proved to be Hall classes; for example, Plotkin (Sov Math Dokl 2:471–474, 1961) and Robinson (Math Z 107:225–231, 1968) proved that locally nilpotent groups and hypercentral groups form Hall classes. Note that these generalizations also hold if groups are replaced by other algebraic structures, for example Lie algebras (see Stitzinger in Ill J Math 22:499–505, 1978). The aim of this paper is to develop a general theory of Hall classes of groups, that could later be reasonably extended to Lie algebras. Among other results, we prove that many natural types of generalized nilpotent groups form Hall classes, and we give examples showing in particular that the class of groups having a finite term in the lower central series is not a Hall class, even if we restrict to the universe of linear groups.
Patient activation and psychological coping strategies to manage challenging circumstances during the COVID-19 pandemic in people with kidney disease
Authors: Lightfoot Courtney Jane , Wilkinson Thomas James , Patel Naeema Aiyub , Jones Ceri Rhiannon , Smith Alice Caroline
Published: January 2024

Background

Coping with health problems requires some degree of self-management; however, an individual’s ability to self-manage can be threatened during challenging times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Exploring differences and changes in psychological well-being and coping strategies between those with low and high patient activation may inform appropriate interventions to support psychological coping.

Methods

People with chronic kidney disease (CKD) (non-dialysis and transplant) were recruited from 11 hospital sites across England between August and December 2020. Participants responded to an online survey study, including the Brief Coping Orientation to Problem Experienced (COPE) Inventory, Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21), Short Health Anxiety Index (SHAI), and Patient Activation Measure (PAM-13). A follow-up survey was conducted 6–9 months later. Paired t tests assessed within-group changes, and chi-squared tests compared coping strategies utilised by low- and high-activated participants. General linear modelling was performed to determine the relationship between patient activation and coping strategies, and covariates.

Results

Two hundred and fourteen participants were recruited (mean age: 60.7, 51% male, mean eGFR: 38.9 ml/min/1.73 m2). Low-activated participants were significantly more anxious than high-activated participants (P = 0.045). Health anxiety significantly decreased (i.e., got better) for high-activated participants (P = 0.016). Higher patient activation scores were associated with greater use of problem-focused strategies (β = 0.288, P < 0.001). Age (β = − 0.174, P = 0.012), sex (β = 0.188, P = 0.004), and education level (β = 0.159, P = 0.019) significantly predicted use of problem-focused strategies.

Discussion

Those with higher activation had lower levels of anxiety, and more frequently used adaptive coping strategies during the pandemic. Targeted support and interventions may be required for people with CKD to enhance patient activation, encourage more positive adaptive coping strategies, and mitigate maladaptive coping strategies.

Graphical abstract
Evaluation of the introduction of novel potassium binders in routine care; the Stockholm CREAtinine measurements (SCREAM) project
Authors: Gonzalez-Ortiz Ailema , Clase Catherine M. , Bosi Alessandro , Fu Edouard L. , Pérez-Guillé Beatriz E. , Faucon Anne-Laure , Evans Marie , Zoccali Carmine , Carrero Juan-Jesús
Published: January 2024

Background

The pharmacological management of hyperkalemia traditionally considered calcium or sodium polystyrene sulfonate and, since recently, the novel binders patiromer and sodium zirconium cyclosilicate. We evaluated their patterns of use, duration of treatment and relative effectiveness/safety in Swedish routine care.

Methods

Observational study of adults initiating therapy with sodium polystyrene sulfonate or a novel binder (sodium zirconium cyclosilicate or patiromer) in Stockholm 2019–2021. We quantified treatment duration by repeated dispensations, compared mean achieved potassium concentration within 60 days, and potential adverse events between treatments.

Results

A total of 1879 adults started treatment with sodium polystyrene sulfonate, and 147 with novel binders (n = 41 patiromer and n = 106 sodium zirconium cyclosilicate). Potassium at baseline for all treatments was 5.7 mmol/L. Sodium polystyrene sulfonate patients stayed on treatment a mean of 61 days (14% filled ≥3 consecutive prescriptions) compared to 109 days on treatment (49% filled ≥3 prescriptions) for novel binders. After 15 days of treatment, potassium similarly decreased to 4.6 (SD 0.6) and 4.8 (SD 0.6) mmol/L in the sodium polystyrene sulfonate and novel binder groups, respectively, and was maintained over the 60 days post-treatment. In multivariable regression, the odds ratio for novel binders (vs sodium polystyrene sulfonate) in reaching potassium ≤ 5.0 mmol/L after 15 days was 0.65 (95% CI 0.38–1.10) and after 60 days 0.89 (95% CI 0.45–1.76). Hypocalcemia, hypokalemia, and initiation of anti-diarrheal/constipation medications were the most-commonly detected adverse events. In multivariable analyses, the OR for these events did not differ between groups.

Conclusion

We observed similar short-term effectiveness and safety for all potassium binders. However, treatment duration was longer for novel binders than for sodium polystyrene sulfonate.

Graphical abstract
Moderate Fields, Maximum Potential: Achieving High Records with Temperature-Stable Energy Storage in Lead-Free BNT-Based Ceramics
Authors: Shi Wenjing , Zhang Leiyang , Jing Ruiyi , Huang Yunyao , Chen Fukang , Shur Vladimir , Wei Xiaoyong , Liu Gang , Du Hongliang , Jin Li
Published: January 2024

The increasing awareness of environmental concerns has prompted a surge in the exploration of lead-free, high-power ceramic capacitors. Ongoing efforts to develop lead-free dielectric ceramics with exceptional energy-storage performance (ESP) have predominantly relied on multi-component composite strategies, often accomplished under ultrahigh electric fields. However, this approach poses challenges in insulation and system downsizing due to the necessary working voltage under such conditions. Despite extensive study, bulk ceramics of (Bi0.5Na0.5)TiO3 (BNT), a prominent lead-free dielectric ceramic family, have seldom achieved a recoverable energy-storage (ES) density (Wrec) exceeding 7 J cm−3. This study introduces a novel approach to attain ceramic capacitors with high ESP under moderate electric fields by regulating permittivity based on a linear dielectric model, enhancing insulation quality, and engineering domain structures through chemical formula optimization. The incorporation of SrTiO3 (ST) into the BNT matrix is revealed to reduce the dielectric constant, while the addition of Bi(Mg2/3Nb1/3)O3 (BMN) aids in maintaining polarization. Additionally, the study elucidates the methodology to achieve high ESP at moderate electric fields ranging from 300 to 500 kV cm−1. In our optimized composition, 0.5(Bi0.5Na0.4K0.1)TiO3–0.5(2/3ST-1/3BMN) (B-0.5SB) ceramics, we achieved a Wrec of 7.19 J cm−3 with an efficiency of 93.8% at 460 kV cm−1. Impressively, the B-0.5SB ceramics exhibit remarkable thermal stability between 30 and 140 °C under 365 kV cm−1, maintaining a Wrec exceeding 5 J cm−3. This study not only establishes the B-0.5SB ceramics as promising candidates for ES materials but also demonstrates the feasibility of optimizing ESP by modifying the dielectric constant under specific electric field conditions. Simultaneously, it provides valuable insights for the future design of ceramic capacitors with high ESP under constraints of limited electric field.
Degrees of maps and multiscale geometry
Authors: Berdnikov Aleksandr , Guth Larry , Manin Fedor
Published: January 2024

We study the degree of an L-Lipschitz map between Riemannian manifolds, proving new upper bounds and constructing new examples. For instance, if

$X_k$

is the connected sum of k copies of

$\mathbb CP^2$

for

$k \ge 4$

, then we prove that the maximum degree of an L-Lipschitz self-map of

$X_k$

is between

$C_1 L^4 (\log L)^{-4}$

and

$C_2 L^4 (\log L)^{-1/2}$

. More generally, we divide simply connected manifolds into three topological types with three different behaviors. Each type is defined by purely topological criteria. For scalable simply connected n-manifolds, the maximal degree is

$\sim L^n$

. For formal but nonscalable simply connected n-manifolds, the maximal degree grows roughly like

$L^n (\log L)^{-\theta (1)}$

. And for nonformal simply connected n-manifolds, the maximal degree is bounded by

$L^\alpha $

for some

$\alpha < n$

.
Introduction: Voluntariness and Migration
Authors: Kollar Eszter , Boucher François
Published: January 2024

The concept of voluntariness permeates the ethics and politics of migration and is commonly used to distinguish refugees from migrants. Yet, neither the precise nature and conditions of voluntariness nor its ethical significance for migrant rights and state obligations has received enough attention. The articles in this collection move the debate forward by demonstrating the complex ethical judgments involved in delineating voluntary from forced migration and in drawing out its political and institutional implications. In addition to highlighting the interplay between the voluntary and nonvoluntary elements of migration over time and across different sites of the migration journey, they provide a nuanced account of the various conditions of voluntariness and they challenge common ideas about its normative political consequences.
Migration, Climate Change, and Voluntariness
Authors: Straehle Christine
Published: January 2024

Climate change challenges the means of subsistence for many, particularly in the Global South. To respond to the challenges of climate change, countries increasingly resort to resettling those most affected by land erosion, heat, drought, floods, and the like. In this article, I investigate to what extent resettlement can compensate for the harm that climate-induced migration brings. The first harm I identify is that to individual autonomy. I argue that climate change changes the options of those affected by it to the point that the decision to migrate can no longer count as a voluntary one. In some cases, I argue, the conditions of climate change coerce individuals. Second, I suggest that climate-induced migration severs the ties to territory, explaining the constitutive nature of such ties for accounts of individual autonomy. Third, I argue that severing ties with a traditional and historical territory challenges the capacity to imagine a future for individuals. I conclude that resettlement, even if actively planned and chosen, possibly providing gains in individual well-being and human flourishing, nevertheless harms individual autonomy interests.
Is Space Expansion the Road to Dystopia?
Authors: Milligan Tony
Published: January 2024

This review essay contrasts two of the most notable recent contributions to literature on space and society: Daniel Deudney's Dark Skies (2020) and Brian Patrick Green's Space Ethics (2022). The Green volume is a course textbook, geared to giving students an overview of some of the key ethical issues concerning space and how the arguments on these matters are shaping up. Its aim is to provide an overview rather than a specific line of argument. Deudney's text, by contrast, is an example of a book proposing space skepticism. It argues that we should relinquish many of our current ambitions for space expansion on the grounds that they will increase the already significant degree of extinction-level risk that we face. The essay marks the distinction between these texts by contrasting normal- and special-domain approaches. Normal-domain approaches seek to extend familiar ethico-political issues into the discussion about space expansion without regarding space expansion as the road to utopia or extinction. Special-domain approaches hold to some such optimistic or pessimistic view. The essay goes on to highlight the way in which Green's text would benefit from more social critique, along the lines of Deudney. Ultimately, the normal-domain approach presupposed by Green and rejected by Deudney is upheld.
绘制火星地图：深度学习可帮助确定耶泽洛陨石坑着陆点
Authors: Derouin Sarah
Published: January 2024

研究人员使用新技术更精确地估计了火星上的地面高度，为火星车着陆制作了更高分辨率的地图。
Evaluating multidimensional facets of the maternal experience after preterm birth
Authors: Fitzallen Grace C. , Kirby James N. , Taylor H. Gerry , Liley Helen G. , Bora Samudragupta
Published: January 2024

Objective

Describe self-relating (self-criticism, self-compassion) and parenting competence (satisfaction, self-efficacy) in mothers of children born preterm, and their associations with child characteristics, maternal sociodemographics at childbirth, and maternal concurrent well-being.

Study design

The sample comprised 1926 biological mothers of 3- to18-year-old children born preterm with self-ratings on the standardized Forms of Self-Criticising/Attacking & Self-Reassuring Scale, Self-Compassion Scale, and Parenting Sense of Competence Scale.

Results

Mothers of children in early childhood reported significantly (p < 0.05) lower self-compassion than in middle childhood and adolescence. They also reported significantly lower parenting satisfaction than mothers of adolescents and higher self-efficacy than their middle childhood counterparts. Maternal psychosocial well-being was most strongly associated with self-compassion, parenting satisfaction, and self-efficacy after accounting for maternal psychopathology, child gestation, and child age.

Conclusion

Longer-term associations of preterm birth with maternal self-relating and parenting competence emphasize broadening the scope of neonatal follow-up services, extending beyond child neurodevelopmental surveillance and postpartum psychopathology screening.
A self-centering and stiffness-controlled MEMS accelerometer
Authors: Jin Yiming , Ma Zhipeng , Ye Ziyi , Li Mingkang , Zheng Xudong , Jin Zhonghe
Published: January 2024

This paper presents a high-performance MEMS accelerometer with a DC/AC electrostatic stiffness tuning capability based on double-sided parallel plates (DSPPs). DC and AC electrostatic tuning enable the adjustment of the effective stiffness and the calibration of the geometric offset of the proof mass, respectively. A dynamical model of the proposed accelerometer was developed considering both DC/AC electrostatic tuning and the temperature effect. Based on the dynamical model, a self-centering closed loop is proposed for pulling the reference position of the force-to-rebalance (FTR) to the geometric center of DSPP. The self-centering accelerometer operates at the optimal reference position by eliminating the temperature drift of the readout circuit and nulling the net electrostatic tuning forces. The stiffness closed-loop is also incorporated to prevent the pull-in instability of the tuned low-stiffness accelerometer under a dramatic temperature variation. Real-time adjustments of the reference position and the DC tuning voltage are utilized to compensate for the residue temperature drift of the proposed accelerometer. As a result, a novel controlling approach composed of a self-centering closed loop, stiffness-closed loop, and temperature drift compensation is achieved for the accelerometer, realizing a temperature drift coefficient (TDC) of approximately 7 μg/°C and an Allan bias instability of less than 1 μg.
Investigation of genetic determinants of cognitive change in later life
Authors: Mahedy Liam , Anderson Emma L. , Tilling Kate , Thornton Zak A. , Elmore Andrew R. , Szalma Sándor , Simen Arthur , Culp Meredith , Zicha Stephen , Harel Brian T. , Davey Smith George , Smith Erin N. , Paternoster Lavinia
Published: January 2024

Cognitive decline is a major health concern and identification of genes that may serve as drug targets to slow decline is important to adequately support an aging population. Whilst genetic studies of cross-sectional cognition have been carried out, cognitive change is less well-understood. Here, using data from the TOMMORROW trial, we investigate genetic associations with cognitive change in a cognitively normal older cohort. We conducted a genome-wide association study of trajectories of repeated cognitive measures (using generalised estimating equation (GEE) modelling) and tested associations with polygenic risk scores (PRS) of potential risk factors. We identified two genetic variants associated with change in attention domain scores, rs534221751 (p = 1 × 10−8 with slope 1) and rs34743896 (p = 5 × 10−10 with slope 2), implicating NCAM2 and CRIPT/ATP6V1E2 genes, respectively. We also found evidence for the association between an education PRS and baseline cognition (at >65 years of age), particularly in the language domain. We demonstrate the feasibility of conducting GWAS of cognitive change using GEE modelling and our results suggest that there may be novel genetic associations for cognitive change that have not previously been associated with cross-sectional cognition. We also show the importance of the education PRS on cognition much later in life. These findings warrant further investigation and demonstrate the potential value of using trial data and trajectory modelling to identify genetic variants associated with cognitive change.