bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Rising Security Challenge of East Asia's "Dual Graying": Implications for U.S.-Led Security Architecture in the Indo-Pacific
Authors: Oros Andrew L.
Published: May 2023

executive summary: This article explains the impact of "dual graying"—the concurrent phenomena of rapid population aging and the proliferation of gray-zone conflicts—on the security planning and postures of Northeast Asian states and considers the implications of these trends in the broader context of Indo-Pacific demographics. main argumentThe major Northeast Asian powers (China, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan) as well as Russia are at the leading edge of one of the most consequential challenges of the 21st century: the rapid aging of their populations at a rate unprecedented in human history that is resulting in a shrinkage of their total population sizes. In addition to the graying of their populations, these powers face a range of new "gray" conflicts—interactions residing somewhere between war and peace—that exacerbate long-standing military concerns. Contrary to predictions that rapid aging will diminish the likelihood of interstate war, security tensions are rising among graying rivals in this region of the world, and states are increasing both military spending and military development. This "dual graying" underscores the need for new approaches to the U.S. network of regional security partners. policy implications• The rapid aging among regional powers does not so far suggest that an "aging peace" is likely to develop; rather, tensions are increasing over old and new areas of conflict. • The escalation of regional gray-zone conflicts is taxing U.S. allies and partners with graying and shrinking populations. Demographic changes in several of these major partners may necessitate a re-examination of roles and commitments within the U.S. alliance network. • Innovations in military and civilian technologies may eventually offset many of the challenges resulting from shrinking and rapidly aging populations, but in the meantime growing labor shortages will force many militaries to seek to adapt in other ways to maintain robust force postures. • In the wider Indo-Pacific, differential aging and population growth among major security actors suggests a growing role for several middle-power states (such as India, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam) that may benefit from a "demographic dividend" over the next several decades.
Edge detection based on ghost imaging through biological tissue
Authors: Huang Weiyi , Tan Wei , Qin Hao , Wang Jiajia , Huang Zhongqiang , Huang XianWei , Fu Xiquan , Bai Yanfeng
Published: May 2023

Edge detection is an essential procedure in biomedical image processing. Note that several edge detection schemes based on ghost imaging (GI) have been proposed, while a practical application environment is not considered. In this paper, we first investigate the edge detection of target objects inside biological tissue in a GI system. The performances of four edge detection operators are compared in GI through biological tissue when refractive index turbulence is considered. The numerical results demonstrate that the Standard operator performs better in edge extraction regardless of the strength of refractive index fluctuations. Our results may provide potential applications of GI in the field of biomedical imaging.
TMI and polarization static energy transfer in Yb-doped low-NA PM fibers
Authors: Palma-Vega Gonzalo , Hässner Denny , Kuhn Stefan , Nold Johannes , Möller Friedrich , Jáuregui César , Tünnermann Andreas , Haarlammert Nicoletta , Schreiber Thomas
Published: May 2023

In this work, we conduct experimental investigations of transverse mode instabilities (TMI) in a large mode area ultra-low numerical aperture polarization maintaining fiber amplifier. This fiber is few mode in the slow-axis (conventional operation mode), but single mode in the fast-axis. We test the stability of the output beam by changing the input polarization angle and systematically investigate the transverse mode instability threshold in the two principal polarization axes. The lowest TMI threshold at 300 W was found when the input polarization angle was aligned parallel to the slow-axis. Detuning the input polarization angle from the slow-axis led to increased TMI thresholds. For input polarization angle of 90° (parallel to the fast-axis), the output signal was stable up to 475 W and further scaling was limited by the available pump power. However, for fast-axis operation a lower polarization ratio compared to slow-axis operation was observed as well as an unexpected static energy transfer from the fast-axis into the slow-axis above 400 W.
Simple spatially resolved period measurement of chirped pulse compression gratings
Authors: Bienert Florian , Röcker Christoph , Graf Thomas , Ahmed Marwan Abdou
Published: May 2023

We present an easy-to-implement and low-cost setup for the precise measurement of the period chirp of diffraction gratings offering a resolution of 15 pm and reasonable scan speeds of 2 seconds per measurement point. The principle of the measurement is illustrated on the example of two different pulse compression gratings, one fabricated by laser interference lithography (LIL) and the other by scanning beam interference lithography (SBIL). A period chirp of 0.22 pm/mm2 at a nominal period of 610 nm was measured for the grating fabricated with LIL, whereas no chirp was observed for the grating fabricated by SBIL, which had a nominal period of 586.2 nm.
Hybrid plasmonic rhombic nano-antenna with a dielectric director
Authors: Khodadadi Maryam , Moshiri Seyyed Mohammad Mehdi , Nozhat Najmeh , Khalily Mohsen
Published: May 2023

In this paper, for the first time, the idea of a dielectric director has been utilized to improve the directivity and gain of the proposed hybrid plasmonic rhombic nano-antenna (HPRNA). The proposed HPRNA can support a horizontal radiation pattern to flourish the concept of wireless transmission link. The horizontal radiation pattern has a 3 dB beamwidth of 43.5°, side lobe level of −11.9 dB, and a directivity and gain of 10.5 dBi and 10.3 dB, respectively, at the operating frequency of 193.5 THz. Moreover, the effects of geometric parameters to verify the functionality of the proposed nano-antenna have been investigated. Finally, the idea of an on-chip wireless transmission link based on transmitting and receiving HPRNAs has been developed and studied theoretically and numerically. The fabrication of the proposed nano-antenna can be done by the typical e-beam lithography (EBL) technique, which is easier than the complicated X-ray method because of its suitable aspect ratio.
Determination of stress waves and their effect on the damage extension induced by surface defects of KDP crystals under intense laser irradiation
Authors: Ding Wenyu , Zhao Linjie , Chen Mingjun , Cheng Jian , Chen Guang , Lei Hongqin , Liu Zhichao , Geng Feng , Wang Shengfei , Xu Qiao
Published: May 2023

The residual crack defects on the surface of potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KDP) crystals are the bottleneck that limits the improvement of laser damage resistance in the application of high-power laser devices. The multiple stress waves introduced by these residual surface lateral cracks on crystals under laser irradiation are the main inducement for damage extension and reduction of laser damage resistance. However, the coupling of these stress waves complicates their propagation in the crystal, and the interaction mechanism between each stress wave and laser damage has not been quantitatively characterized. Herein, a laser damage dynamic model for surface lateral cracks is constructed to reproduce the dynamic behaviors of the evolution of micro-defects to sub-millimeter damage pits under laser irradiation. Combined with the time-resolved pump and probe technique, the distribution of stress waves induced by lateral cracks was detected in situ to determine the type of stress waves. Then, the initiation and extension of laser damage were analyzed quantitatively to establish the correlations between different stress waves and damage extension. It is found that the longitudinal, shear, and Rayleigh waves induced by lateral cracks lead to large crush zones on the surface of KDP crystals, as well as butterfly-like damage sites accompanied by a large number of cracks at the bottom in the longitudinal section. The scale of the damage site can reach up to approximately 150 µm for lateral crack defects with large surface widths. This study ultimately reveals the physical mechanism of damage evolution induced by lateral cracks, providing effective guidance for developing control standards of surface crack defects during optical ultra-precision machining processes. This is of great significance for the improvement of laser damage resistance of KDP crystals in high-power laser systems.
Can Ivermectin kill Sarcoptes scabiei during the molting process?
Authors: Feng Shenrui , Shi Minmin , Yin Zhijuan , Di Wenda , Guillot Jacques , Fang Fang
Published: May 2023

Background

Sarcoptes scabieiis a permanent obligate ectoparasite that lives and reproduces in the epidermis of humans and other mammals worldwide. There is a lack of information on the molting process ofSarcoptes scabiei. Ivermectin is widely used to treatSarcoptesinfection in humans and animals, while the survival of moltingSarcoptesmites in the presence of ivermectin is unknown. The aim of the present study is to investigate the molting process ofSarcoptesmites and assess the activity of ivermectin during the molting process ofSarcoptesmites.

Methodology/Principal findings

moltingSarcoptesmites were incubated at 35°C and 80% relative humidity and observed hourly until complete molt. Of the 192 molting mites recorded, the longest molt periods for larvae and nymphs were 23 and 30 h, respectively. The activity of ivermectin on moltingSarcoptesmites was also assessed using two concentrations of the drug (0.1 and 0.05 mg/ml). The exposure time for molting mites was determined by 100% mortality of female mites exposed to the solution of ivermectin. While all female mites were killed after exposure to 0.1 mg/ml ivermectin for 2 h and and 0.05 mg/ml for 7 h, 32% and 36% of molting mites survived and successfully molted, respectively.

Conclusions/significance

The present study demonstrated that moltingSarcoptesmites are less susceptible to ivermectin than active mites. As a consequence, mites may survive after two doses of ivermectin given 7 days apart due not only to hatching eggs but also to the resistance of mites during their molting process. Our results provide insight into the optimal therapeutic regimens for scabies and highlight the need for further research on the molting process ofSarcoptesmites.
Many-objective African vulture optimization algorithm: A novel approach for many-objective problems
Authors: Askr Heba , Farag M. A. , Hassanien Aboul Ella , Snášel Václav , Farrag Tamer Ahmed
Published: May 2023

Several optimization problems can be abstracted into many-objective optimization problems (MaOPs). The key to solving MaOPs is designing an effective algorithm to balance the exploration and exploitation issues. This paper proposes a novel many-objective African vulture optimization algorithm (MaAVOA) that simulating the African vultures’ foraging and navigation behaviours to solve the MaOPs. MaAVOA is an updated version of the African Vulture Optimization Algorithm (AVOA), which was recently proposed to solve the MaOPs. A new social leader vulture for the selection process is introduced and integrated into the proposed model. In addition, an environmental selection mechanism based on the alternative pool is adapted to improve the selection process to maintain diversity for approximating different parts of the whole Pareto Front (PF). The best-nondominated solutions are saved in an external Archive based on the Fitness Assignment Method (FAM) during the population evolution. FAM is based on a convergence measure that promotes convergence and a density measure that promotes variety. Also, a Reproduction of Archive Solutions (RAS) procedure is developed to improve the quality of archiving solutions. RAS has been designed to help reach out to the missing areas of the PF that the vultures easily miss. Two experiments are conducted to verify and validate the suggested MaAVOA’s performance efficacy. First, MaAVOA was applied to the DTLZ functions, and its performance was compared to that of several popular many-objective algorithms and according to the results, MaAVOA outperforms the competitor algorithms in terms of inverted generational distance and hypervolume performance measures and has a beneficial adaptation ability in terms of both convergence and diversity performance measures. Also, statistical tests are implemented to demonstrate the suggested algorithm’s statistical relevance. Second, MaAVOA has been applied to solve two real-life constrained engineering MaOPs applications, namely, the series-parallel system and overspeed protection for gas turbine problems. The experiments show that the suggested algorithm can tackle many-objective real-world applications and provide promising choices for decision-makers.
Evaluation of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study and trend analysis involving 86,772 samples
Authors: Arayıcı Mehmet Emin , Korkut-Uysal Sila Ovgu , Leblebici Asim , Akcali Zeynep , Edizer Deniz Tuna , Kabul Seher , Cimrin Dilek , Ellidokuz Ender Berat
Published: May 2023

Background

The aim of this paper was to evaluate the change in 25-hidroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

In this retrospective, cross-sectional and methodological study included 86,772 patients (18–75 years) samples who were admitted to the Izmir Dokuz Eylul University Hospital (latitude and longitude (Turkey): 27 E 09; 38 N 25, respectively) for various reasons and whose 25(OH)D levels were measured in the biochemistry unit between 2019–2020 and 2020–2021 (before and during the COVID-19 outbreak). A time series analysis of monthly averages for 25(OH)D was performed. For the purpose of seasonal study, the mean levels of 25(OH)D are grouped by years. Data were modeled in terms of 25(OH)D levels using the MATLAB Curve Fitting Toolbox.

Results

There was no significant difference between the sexes according to 25(OH)D levels (p>0.05). 25(OH)D levels were significantly higher in the summer months and lower in the winter months (p<0.001). When comparing the spring months, 25(OH)D levels in 2020 (18 ± 10) were found to be significantly lower than in 2019 (22 ± 12) (p<0.001); on the contrary, when examined based on the summer, autumn, and winter months, it was determined that 25(OH)D levels increased in 2020 (summer: 25 ± 13, autumn: 25 ± 14, and winter: 19 ± 10) compared to 2019 (summer: 23 ± 11, autumn: 22 ± 10, and winter: 19 ± 11) (p<0.001). In the estimates curve obtained with an error margin of 11% in the time series analysis, it was estimated that the 25(OH)D averages after the pandemic would be similar to those before the pandemic.

Conclusions

Restrictions, partial or complete closures, and curfews can significantly affect individuals’ 25(OH)D levels during the COVID-19 outbreak. There is a need for multicenter studies with larger populations covering different regions to strengthen and support our results.
Duty of care in companion dog owners: Preliminary scale development and empirical exploration
Authors: Glanville Carmen R. , Hemsworth Lauren M. , Hemsworth Paul H. , Coleman Grahame J.
Published: May 2023

Owner behaviour change may be the most promising avenue to improve dog welfare. As such, understanding potential drivers of owner behaviour is critical to developing effective intervention programs. Here we examine in depth the concept of “duty of care” as a motivator of owner behaviour. Using a mixed methods approach, this study aimed to better understand the potential dimensions of duty of care, their interrelationships, and develop psychometrically valid tools to measure them in companion dog owners. This was achieved through a multi-stage process including a critical literature review, qualitative interviews (n = 13), and an online survey (n = 538). Using Schwartz’s Norm Activation Model as a framework, we have developed a 30 item scale with 5 subscales; duty beliefs, problem awareness, awareness of impact, efficacy, and ascription of responsibility. These unique subscales demonstrate good internal consistency and construct validity. In addition to developing a measurement tool, this process has provided important insights into the nature of duty of care in companion dog owners, creating several avenues for future inquiry. One such finding was that many dog welfare problems may not be the result of lacking duty beliefs, but rather weaknesses in other “activation” factors such as problem awareness or ascription of responsibility. Further work is now required to understand the predictive validity of the scale and the relative influence of its different dimensions on owner behaviour and dog welfare outcomes. This will facilitate the identification of appropriate targets for intervention programs aimed at improving owner behaviour and consequently, dog welfare.
Determinants of influenza and pneumococcal vaccine uptake among preschool children in Singapore
Authors: Zahari Marina , Offeddu Vittoria , Smith Gavin J. D. , Tam Clarence C.
Published: May 2023

Young children are at increased risk of severe illness from influenza and pneumococcal infections. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends vaccination with influenza and pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV). However, in Singapore, vaccine uptake remains suboptimal relative to other routine childhood immunisations. Limited information exists regarding determinants of influenza and pneumococcal vaccine uptake in children. We estimated vaccine uptake and investigated factors associated with influenza and pneumococcal vaccination status by age group using data from a cohort study on acute respiratory infections in children attending preschools in Singapore. We recruited children aged two to six years at 24 participating preschools from June 2017 to July 2018. We determined the proportion of children immunised with influenza vaccine and PCV, and investigated socio-demographic factors associated with vaccine uptake using logistic regression models. Among 505 children, 77.5% were of Chinese ethnicity, and 53.1% were male. History of influenza vaccination was 27.5% of which 11.7% had been vaccinated within the past 12 months. In multivariable analyses, factors associated with influenza vaccine uptake were ‘children living in landed property’ (aOR = 2.25, 95% CI [1.07–4.67]) and ‘history of hospitalisation due to cough’ (aOR = 1.85, 95% CI [1.00–3.36]). Nearly three-quarters of participants (70.7% 95%CI: [66.6–74.5]) reported prior PCV vaccination. PCV uptake was higher for younger children. ‘Higher parental education’ (OR = 2.83, 95% CI [1.51,5.32]), ‘household income’ (OR = 1.26, 95% CI [1.08,1.48]) and ‘smokers in household’ (OR = 0.48, 95% CI [0.31,0.74]) were significantly associated with PCV uptake in univariable analyses. Only ‘smokers in household’ remained significantly associated with PCV uptake (aOR = 0.55, 95% CI [0.33,0.91]) in the adjusted model. Our results indicate that episodes of severe respiratory illness are a cue to influenza vaccination suggesting that doctors are more likely to recommend influenza vaccines to high-risk children. For PCV, our findings suggest overall greater awareness and education on the benefit of PCV vaccination is required.
Age-specific SARS-CoV-2 infection fatality rates derived from serological data vary with income and income inequality
Authors: Rickards Chloe G. , Kilpatrick A. Marm
Published: May 2023

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has killed at least 1.1 million people in the United States and over 6.7 million globally. Accurately estimating the age-specific infection fatality rate (IFR) of SARS-CoV-2 for different populations is crucial for assessing and understanding the impact of COVID-19 and for appropriately allocating vaccines and treatments to at-risk groups. We estimated age-specific IFRs of wild-type SARS-CoV-2 using published seroprevalence, case, and death data from New York City (NYC) from March to May 2020, using a Bayesian framework that accounted for delays between key epidemiological events. IFRs increased 3-4-fold with every 20 years of age, from 0.06% in individuals between 18–45 years old to 4.7% in individuals over 75. We then compared IFRs in NYC to several city- and country-wide estimates including England, Switzerland (Geneva), Sweden (Stockholm), Belgium, Mexico, and Brazil, as well as a global estimate. IFRs in NYC were higher for individuals younger than 65 years old than most other populations, but similar for older individuals. IFRs for age groups less than 65 decreased with income and increased with income inequality measured using the Gini index. These results demonstrate that the age-specific fatality of COVID-19 differs among developed countries and raises questions about factors underlying these differences, including underlying health conditions and healthcare access.
The effect of body mass index reduction on intraocular pressure in a large prospective cohort of apparently healthy individuals in Israel
Authors: Coster Dan , Rafie Ariel , Savion-Gaiger Noam , Rachmiel Rony , Kurtz Shimon , Berliner Shlomo , Shapira Itzhak , Zeltser David , Rogowski Ori , Shenhar-Tsarfaty Shani , Waisbourd Michael
Published: May 2023

Purpose

To investigate the effect of change in body mass index (BMI) on intraocular pressure (IOP) in a large cohort of apparently healthy volunteers who underwent an annual comprehensive screening examinations.

Methods

This study included individuals who were enrolled in the Tel Aviv Medical Center Inflammation Survey (TAMCIS) and had IOP and BMI measurements at their baseline and follow up visits. Relationships between BMI and IOP and the effect of change in BMI on IOP were investigated.

Results

A total of 7,782 individuals had at least one IOP measurement at their baseline visit, and 2,985 individuals had ≥2 visits recorded. The mean (SD) IOP (right eye) was 14.6 (2.5) mm Hg and mean (SD) BMI was 26.4 (4.1) kg/m2. IOP positively correlated with BMI levels (r = 0.16, p<0.0001). For individuals with morbid obesity (BMI≥35 kg/m2) and ≥2 visits, a change in BMI between the baseline and first follow-up visits correlated positively with a change in the IOP (r = 0.23, p = 0.029). Subgroup analysis of subjects who had a reduction of at least 2 BMI units showed a stronger positive correlation between change in BMI and change in IOP (r = 0.29, p<0.0001). For this subgroup, a reduction of 2.86 kg/m2 of BMI was associated with a reduction of 1 mm Hg in IOP.

Conclusions

BMI loss correlated with reduction in IOP, and this correlation was more pronounced among morbidly obese individuals.
The characteristics and survival of second primary lung cancer after Hodgkin’s lymphoma: A comparison with first primary lung cancer using the SEER database
Authors: Lin Ling , Wang Daquan , Chen Haizhu
Published: May 2023

Objective

The study aimed to compare the characteristics and prognosis between patients with second primary lung cancer following Hodgkin’s lymphoma and those with primary lung cancer.

Materials and methods

Using the SEER 18 database, the characteristics and prognosis were compared between the second primary non-small cell lung cancer following Hodgkin’s lymphoma (HL-NSCLC) (n = 466) and the first primary non-small cell lung cancer (n = 469,851)(NSCLC-1), as well as between the second primary small cell lung cancer following Hodgkin’s lymphoma (n = 93) (HL-SCLC) and the first primary small cell lung cancer (n = 94,168) (SCLC-1). Comparisons of categorical variables were performed using Chi-square or Fisher’s test. Continuous variables were compared using the Mann-Whitney U test. Overall survival (OS) was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method, and the difference between groups was analyzed by log-rank test.

Results

HL-NSCLC group had more males than NSCLC-1 group, and the median age of HL-NSCLC group was younger than that of NSCLC-1 group. Patients with HL-NSCLC showed inferior OS than those with NSCLC-1 (median: 10 months vs. 11 months, P = 0.006). Both HL-SCLC and SCLC-1 groups had poor prognosis, with median OS of 7 months (P = 0.4). The 3-year cumulative risks of death from any cause for patients with the latencies from HL to NSCLC of 0 to 5 years, >5 to 10 years, >10 to 15 years, >15 to 20 years, and>20 years were 71.8%, 82.6%, 86.8%, 85.7% and 78.5%, respectively(P = 0.020).

Conclusion

HL-NSCLC patients had worse prognosis than NSCLC-1 patients, while HL-SCLC patients shared similar characteristics and survival with SCLC-1 patients.
Eye-size effects in the dot-probe task: Greater sclera exposure predicts delayed disengagement from fearful faces
Authors: Aday Jacob S. , Fang Lin , Carlson Joshua M.
Published: May 2023

Fearful facial expressions are nonverbal and biologically salient signals of potential threat that automatically hold, capture, and direct observers’ attention. They are characterized by enlarged eye whites and dilated pupils, and fearful eyes alone are sufficient to capture attention. The morphological properties of the eye region, such as sclera exposure, are thought to play an important role in nonverbal communication. Specifically, increased sclera exposure associated with fearful expressions has been shown to moderate how observers’ shift their attention toward the direction of another’s gaze. Yet, the extent to which variability in sclera exposure possibly impacts the capture and hold of attention by fearful faces is untested. To address this, a sample of 249 adults completed a dot-probe task of selective attention with fearful and neutral faces. The results suggested that (1) fearful faces were prioritized over neutral faces (i.e., they captured and held attention), (2) greater sclera exposure at target locations facilitated reaction times, and (3) attention was held by greater sclera exposure of fearful faces at task irrelevant locations resulting in delayed disengagement. Collectively, the results indicate that fearful facial expressions and sclera exposure modulate spatial attention through independent and interactive mechanisms. Sclera exposure appears to be an important facilitator of nonverbal communication and perhaps represents an understudied variable in social cognition more broadly.
Factors responsible for Ixodes ricinus presence and abundance across a natural-urban gradient
Authors: Janzén Thérese , Hammer Monica , Petersson Mona , Dinnétz Patrik
Published: May 2023

To better understand the spatial distribution of the common tick Ixodes ricinus, we investigated how local site factors and landscape characteristics influence tick presence and abundance in different greenspaces along the natural-urban gradient in Stockholm County, Sweden. Ticks and field data were collected in 2017 and 2019 and analyzed in relation to habitat type distributions estimated from land cover maps using geographical information system (GIS). A total of 1378 (992 larvae, 370 nymphs, 13 females, and 3 males) questing ticks were collected from 295 sampling plots in 47 different greenspaces. Ticks were present in 41 of the 47 greenspaces and our results show that both local site features such as vegetation height, and landscape characteristics like the amount of mixed coniferous forest, significantly affect tick abundance. Tick abundance was highest in rural areas with large natural and seminatural habitats, but ticks were also present in parks and gardens in highly urbanized areas. Greenspaces along the natural-urban gradient should be included in surveillance for ticks and tick-borne diseases, including highly urbanized sites that may be perceived by the public as areas with low risk for tick encounters.
The never-ending patient journey of chronically ill patients: A qualitative case study on touchpoints in relation to patient-centered care
Authors: Maas Vera K. , Dibbets Frederik H. , Peters Vincent J. T. , Meijboom Bert R. , van Bijnen Daniëlle
Published: May 2023

Background

Healthcare professionals caring for chronically ill patients increasingly want to provide patient-centered care (PCC). By understanding each individual patient journey, they can significantly improve the quality of PCC. A patient journey consists of patient interactions, so-called touchpoints, with healthcare professionals distributed over three periods: pre-service, service, and post-service period. The aim of this study was to ascertain chronically ill patients’ needs for digital alternatives for touchpoints. Specifically, we aimed to explore which digital alternatives patients would like to see implemented into their patient journey to help healthcare professionals providing PCC.

Methods

Eight semi-structured interviews were conducted either face-to-face or via Zoom. Participants were included if they had visited the department of internal medicine and had received treatment for either arteriosclerosis, diabetes, HIV, or kidney failure. The interviews were analyzed utilizing a thematic analysis approach.

Results

The results suggest that the patient journey of chronically ill patients is a continuous cycle. Furthermore, the results showed that chronically ill patients would like to see digital alternatives for touchpoints implemented into their patient journey. These digital alternatives consisted of video calls, digitally checking in before a physical appointment, digitally self-monitoring one’s medical condition and personally uploading monitoring results into the patient portal, and viewing their own medical status in a digital format. Particularly, patients who were familiar with their healthcare professional(s) and were in a stable condition mostly opted for digital alternatives.

Conclusion

In the cyclical patient journey, digitalization can help put the wishes and needs of the chronically ill patients at the center of care. It is recommended that healthcare professionals implement digital alternatives for touchpoints. Most chronically ill patients consider digital alternatives to lead to more efficient interactions with their healthcare professionals. Furthermore, digital alternatives support patients to be better informed about the progress of their chronical illness.
Young children and artistic behaviour: Theoretical considerations for exploration, communication and improvisation, and practical implications
Authors: Dartsch Michael
Published: May 2023

The article reflects about artistic behaviour in general and shows the potentials of young children for engaging in artistic actions. In particular perceptive and explorative behaviour, which includes forms of communication as well, leads to artistry and can be supported by teachers and educators. Important options of artistic activities are fantasizing in improvisation and comprehension of songs and pieces. All this begins in everyday life and can culminate in differentiated art practice.
COMPARATIVE STUDY OF PHENOLIC COMPOSITION AND ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY OF SEMI-PARASITE VISCUM ALBUM L. AND LEAVES OF PLANT HOSTS MALUS DOMESTICA BORKH., PYRUS COMMUNIS L.
Authors: Pozdnyakov Dmitriy Igorevich , Adzhiakhmetova Similla Leont'yevna , Chervonnaya Nadezhda Mikhaylovna , Oganesyan Stanislav Oganesovich
Published: May 2023

Viscum album L. is a hemiparasite and most often parasitic on deciduous trees, and the chemical composition of the semi-parasite plant can vary depending on the time of harvest, the type of host tree. The object of the study was the leaves of mistletoe growing on the domestic apple tree, collected in the vicinity of the city of Stavropol, and the leaves of mistletoe growing on the common pear, collected on the territory of the Belorechensky district of the Krasnodar Territory. The aim of the study was a comparative study of the content of phenolic compounds and the antioxidant activity of the leaves of a semi-parasitic Viscum album L., and the leaves of host plants – Malus domestica Borkh. and Pyrus communis L.. The maximum content of the sum of flavonoids in extracts from white Viscum album, Malus domestica and white Viscum album, Pyrus communis, is observed during the extraction of raw materials with 50% ethyl alcohol, and is 0.926±0.005%; 4.482±0.011% and 0.552±0.004%; 2.63±0.010%, respectively. The highest content of the sum of phenolic compounds is observed in the extract from the leaves of the Malus domestica, obtained by extraction with 50% ethyl alcohol, and is 21.55±0.18%. The amperometric method established the total content of antioxidants in the analyzed extracts from the leaves of white Viscum album, Malus domestica and Pyrus communis. Ethyl alcohol 50% was the optimal extractant. According to the results of the evaluation of the antioxidant properties of the studied extracts in vivo, it was found that the extracts obtained from the leaves of mistletoe and the leaves of carrier plants (Malus domestica and Pyrus communis) are characterized by equivalent antioxidant activity.
EXTRACTION OF POLYPHENOLIC COMPOUNDS FROM THE JUGLANS REGIA L. PELLICLES OF USING ULTRASOUND
Authors: Bazarnova Julia , Chernikova Daria , Sevastyanova Anna , Đurović Saša
Published: May 2023

The attention of Russian and foreign scientists is focused on obtaining secondary plant metabolites, including phenolic compounds, due to their pharmacological activity. The Juglans regia L. pellicles are a promising raw source for the production of alkaloids, naphthoquinones (juglone), tannins and organic acids. In modern practice of obtaining biologically active substances from plant raw materials, intensive extraction methods are of particular interest. In this extraction method ultrasonic treatment is used to increase the yield and intensify the process of extracting biologically significant substances. Technological parameters of ultrasonic treatment must be selected individually for each type of plant raw material. The aim of the work was to study the effect of ultrasonic treatment on the yield of polyphenolic substances during extraction from the pellicles of breeding varieties Juglans regia L. It was found that the content of tannins in the pellicle biomass of the studied varieties Juglans regia L. varies from 5.2 to 7.3 g/100 g, phenolic compounds – from 17 to 18.2 mg/100 g. The highest content of these compounds was recorded in the pellicle biomass of the Valentina's Gift variety. It was found that ultrasonic treatment with a power of 200 W for 10 min contributes to the highest yield of polyphenolic substances in the extract from the pellicle biomass of the Valentina's Gift variety. However, the spectral profiles of hydroalcoholic extracts indicate the opposite: 200 W ultrasound reduces the intensity of the extraction of polyphenolic compounds.
ISOLATION, STRUCTURE AND PHYSICO-CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF CHITIN-GLUCAN COMPLEXES OF HIGHER FUNGI
Authors: Minakov Denis Viktorovich , Minakova Anastasiya Aleksandrovna , Markin Vadim Ivanovich , Bazarnova Natal'ya Grigor'yevna , Tikhonov Sergey Leonidovich , Egorova Elena Yurievna
Published: May 2023

The article is devoted to the study of isolation processes, chemical structure and rheological properties of chitin-glucan complexes from the biomass of Armillaria mellea. Because of the studies, it was found that the yield of chitin-glucan complexes ranged from 11.0 to 24.9% with a degree of deacetylation from 24 to 55%. The maximum yield was obtained by treating the fruiting bodies of fungi at the stage of deproteinization with a 3% aqueous solution of sodium hydroxide with mechanical stirring at 225 rpm for 60 min at 75±5°C. It is shown that the degree of deacetylation correlates with the values of the alkali concentration used. The IR spectra of the obtained samples of chitin-glucan complexes include absorption bands characteristic of stretching and bending vibrations of the bonds of chitin and glucan links and coincide with the spectra of chitin-glucan complexes of other fungi. It has been established that the viscosity characteristics of a 1% solution of a chitin-glucan complex in 2% hydrochloric acid are 14 and 190 times lower than 5% and 10% solutions, respectively. Increasing the shear rate makes it possible to detect a decrease in the viscosity of all studied solutions. Storage of a 1% solution of chitin-glucan complexes for 7 days at 25±2°C is accompanied by a decrease in viscosity; the viscosity of 5 and 10% solutions remains stable.
Modern glucose-lowering treatment effect on bone remodeling in experimental diabetes mellitus and surgical menopause
Authors: Тimkina N. V. , Semenova N. Yu. , Simanenkova A. V. , Zinserling V. A. , Vlasov T. D. , Bairamov А. A. , Khalzova A. K. , Shimshilashvili A. A. , Тimofeeva V. A. , Karonova T. L.
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is an independent risk factor for low-traumatic fractures. On the other hand, hypoglycemic drugs can have both positive and negative effects on bone remodeling.

THE AIM: Тo investigate bone metabolism parameters during surgical menopause and experimental DM under the treatment with glucagon-like peptide receptor agonist type 1 (arGLP-1) liraglutide (LIRA) and sodium-glucose cotransporter type 2 inhibitor (iSGLT-2) canagliflozin (CANA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Female Wistar rats have been subjected to bilateral ovariectomy at the beginning of the experiment. Diabetes mellitus (DM) was modelled using a high-fat diet and streptozotocin+nicotinamide. Four weeks after the following groups were formed: “OE+DM” (females after ovariectomy with DM and without any therapy, n=4) «OE+DM+CANA» (females after ovariectomy with DM under treatment with CANA, n=4), «OE+DM+LIRA» (females after ovariectomy with DM under treatment LIRA, n=5). The treatment or observation period were continuing for 8 weeks. Calcium, phosphorus and bone turnover markers (fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF-23), osteocalcin, sclerostin, osteoprotegerin (OPG), nuclear factor-kappa-B receptor activator ligand (RANKL), were measured in the end of experiment. Bone histomorphometry was performed after euthanasia.

RESULTS: Treatment with both CANA and LIRA did not significantly affect the phosphorus-calcium metabolism, sclerostin and osteocalcin concentrations. At the same time, the level of OPG was the highest in «OE+DM ‘’ group (9.1 [7.81; 10.045] pmol/l). The differences were significant compared with «OE+DM+CANA’’ (2, 33 [1.84; 5.84] pmol/l, p = 0.003) and «OE+DM+LIRA» (1.7 [1; 2] pmol/l, p = 0.003) groups. There were no differences in OPG levels between animals treated with different drugs. Similarly, the OPG/RANKL ratio was similarly reduced with both types of treatment. In “OE+DM+CANA’’ group the bone trabeculae number of   the femur epiphysis (p=0.042) were decreased in comparison to «OE+DM» group. LIRA did not change the histoarchitectonic parameters.

CONCLUSION: Bone metabolism markers did not differ when using as canagliflozin as liraglutide. Besides, canagliflosin can lead to the activation of bone resorption, which is expressed in the femur epiphyseal trabeculae number decreasing.
Closed Mitral Valvotomy: Celebrating 100 Years of Surgical History
Authors: Bortolotti Uberto , Vendramin Igor , Milano Aldo Domenico , Livi Ugolino
Published: May 2023

The year 2023 marks the 100th anniversary of the first successful valvotomy for mitral valve stenosis by Elliott C. Cutler in 1923. Closed-chest mitral valve commissurotomy developed further before being replaced by an open procedure after the advent of the heart-lung machine. Currently, because of the almost complete disappearance of rheumatic disease in the Western World, mitral commissurotomies are infrequently performed in those countries, although the procedure—either closed or open—is still performed in developing countries and select patients. This review retraces the 100-year journey from a historic operation to the current era—a milestone in the treatment of patients with mitral stenosis.
Building pathways between transdisciplinarity and transformation: Lessons from practice
Authors: Palavicino Carla Alvial , Ejderyan Olivier , Vienni-Baptista Bianca
Published: May 2023

The notion of “transformation” has moved from academic discussion and is now part of the discourse of public and private organizations. Here, we offer a systematic examination of how combining transformation and transdisciplinary approaches can support the transformation
to sustainability.In recent years, the notion of “transformation” has moved from academia to the strategic agendas of public and private organizations. Within this discourse, both transdisciplinarity and co-production are often mentioned as means to enable transformation, particularly
in debates about risks and opportunities in transformative science and problem-solving. However, there has been little systematic examination of the potential in combining these approaches to contribute more effectively in the transformation to sustainability. Building on an autoethnographic
analysis of two projects in transformation and transdisciplinarity, we identify pathways to strengthen collaboration between these approaches: 1. moving from transdisciplinarity “for” transformation to transdisciplinarity “as” transformation and 2. identifying concrete
spaces for conceptual and methodological cross-fertilization between these approaches. We discuss the challenges and elaborate recommendations for these pathways and conclude by offering a few insights on how communities can together foster effective sustainability solutions to societal challenges.
Transdisziplinäre und partizipative Wissenschaft stärken und eine nachhaltige Zukunft gestalten: Eckpunkte für Wissenschaftspolitik, Forschungsförderung und Wissenschaft
Authors: Partner
Published: May 2023

Transdisziplinäre Forschung ist in besonderer Weise geeignet, gesellschaftliche Problemstellungen in ihrer Komplexität lösungsorientiert zu bearbeiten. Die Unterzeichnenden des hier veröffentlichten Eckpunktepapiers setzen sich für die Förderung von Transdisziplinarität
sowie partizipativen und transformativen Ansätzen in Wissenschaft, Wirtschaft, Zivilgesellschaft und Politik ein.
Inclusive stakeholder engagement for equitable knowledge co-production: Insights from the EU’sHorizon 2020programme in climate change research
Authors: Lieu Jenny , Marti´nez-Reyes Amanda , Groome Phillippa , Mangalagiu Diana , Pearce BinBin J. , Witajewska-Baltvilka Baiba , Møller Regine-Ellen D.
Published: May 2023

We develop and apply the concept of equitable knowledge co-production (EKC) by proposing a reflexive framework to support inclusive stakeholder engagement with diverse knowledge-holders. This framework is built on the authors’ experiences of leading three ongoingHorizon 2020projects, and its goal is to contribute to the realisation of epistemic and recognition justice in the context of large-scale research and innovation projects by raising awareness of how knowledge co-production is carried out during the project proposal and implementation phases.
Biomodd: The integration of art into transdisciplinary research practices
Authors: Kuchner Ulrike , Nasser Mona , Steyaert Pieter , Maranan Diego S. , Birsel Zeynep , Haines Agatha , Peeters Ann , Vermeulen Angelo C. J.
Published: May 2023

Biomodd is an artistic project with the potential for supporting transdisciplinary practices in blended virtual and in-person environments. After describing the project components, we discuss the collaborative process of idea generation and participant engagement.In this
paper, we argue for the integration of collaborative art practice in transdisciplinary (TD) research to generate ideas and engage researchers and non-academic stakeholders. We draw on the virtual and in-person (hybrid) participation of members of the TD collective Space Ecologies Art and
Design (SEADS) during Biomodd, an art installation that addresses global challenges in ecology, humanity, technology, and technological waste. Using survey responses, diaries, and meeting minutes, we reflect on the process, methods and ideation during Biomodd and map them
to the concept of the “idea journey” discussed by Jill E. Perry-Smith and Pier Vittorio Mannucci. We find that while in-person ideation was driven by utility, materiality, and emergence, the hybrid mode provided favorable conditions for a feedback loop of expansive, individual
experimentation and online sharing.
Teaching transdisciplinary competencies for sustainability transformation by co-producing social learning videos
Authors: Thieme Susan , Fry Patricia Elizabeth
Published: May 2023

Film has great potential to initiate social learning processes. Therefore, working with film is suitable as a teaching format that enables co-production of knowledge and transformative learning. Through participatory filmmaking, students can acquire transdisciplinary competencies, which
are necessary for sustainability transformations. We discuss how transdisciplinary competences can be acquired by building on transformative teaching by co-producing social learning videos.Dealing with complex societal problems requires transdisciplinary approaches and competencies. Inspired
by debates on transformative teaching and participatory filmmaking, we show how we used the social learning video method to teach transdisciplinary competencies in a university setting. Using the design of future railway stations as an example, students interacted with external practice partners
in real-world problem situations. As part of this process, they became aware of their own professional perspectives and critically reflected on the perspectives of their practice partners and the differences in their understanding of sustainability. In addition, they developed numerous transdisciplinary
competences, such as defining a problem together, conducting group discussions and interviews, mediating among different viewpoints, allowing a common language to develop, and triggering “AHA!” moments in joint film screenings. As part of transdisciplinary and transformative teaching,
it is important to provide access to external practice partners and working environments, enable students to engage and reflect, and provide nurturing and challenging framework conditions.
Advancing transdisciplinarity: Learning, teaching, and institutionalizing
Authors: Klein† Julie Thompson
Published: May 2023

In defining values and skills for grappling with complex societal challenges, this article builds on Daniel Stokols’ generic model of the 4 Ts of training for transdisciplinary, team-oriented, translational, and transcultural research. Whether explicit or implicit, the 4 Ts thread
throughout this exploration of learning and teaching in transdisciplinary contexts. Stokols’ focus was educating social ecologists, but his call to close the gap between rhetoric of endorsement and limited responsiveness of academic institutions is widespread. Learning for sustainability
is a case in point. Although increasingly prioritized as an imperative, it is often confined to special programs rather than assimilated across the academy and its relations with other sectors of society. This contribution builds further on remarks in a panel at the 2021 International Transdisciplinarity
Conference: by synthesizing insights into inter- and trans-disciplinarity and subthemes of teaching and learning while embellishing Stokols’ other three Ts of team-based approaches, translation of knowledge across sectors, and a shift from uni- to transcultural outlooks. In the course
of discussion the contribution also clarifies differences between inter- and trans-disciplinarity, though treats them as emphases, not sharp boundaries.
On being oriented: Strengthening transgressive orientations in transdisciplinary sustainability research through queer theory
Authors: Caniglia Guido , Vogel Coleen
Published: May 2023

We move from a provocative analogy: that transdisciplinary sustainability researchers are to academia what queer people are to a heteronormative and sex/gender binary world. Both may experience disorientation and need to learn how to transgress established norms. Queer people and scholars
have extensively dealt with (dis)orientation and celebrated transgression. We suggest that queer theory can help transdisciplinary sustainability researchers to raise questions that intensify the transgressive orientations of their work when contributing to just and equitable sustainability
transformations.