bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel technique for wall parameter estimation for through wall imaging systems
Authors: Singh Akhilendra Pratap
Published: March 2023

Accurate estimating of wall parameters is crucial for precisely locating targets and obtaining well‐focused through wall radar images. Recently, machine learning has been introduced for quick and precise estimation of wall parameters. One of the significant concerns with this approach is the generation of training and testing data, which require the fabrication of walls with different permittivity, thickness, and conductivity. Creating walls with varying permittivity, thickness, and conductivity can be difficult and expensive. Therefore, a cost‐effective method for estimating wall parameters is proposed in this paper. The proposed method uses an electromagnetic approach to train the artificial neural network to retrieve the relative permittivity and thickness of the wall. The proposed estimation approach has the advantages of high precision and low computational complexity. The performance of the proposed approach is validated on simulated and experimental data. The applicability of the proposed method has been shown with measured data from two real building walls. It is shown that the proposed method retrieved wall parameters with high accuracy.
Bandwidth‐reconfigurable filtering phase shifters with phase‐slope alignment for different bandwidth states
Authors: Shao Chuan , Zhu Xiao‐Hua
Published: March 2023

In this article, filtering phase shifters with the capability to reconfigure their operating bandwidth are proposed for the first time. The proposed phase shifter is based on a triple‐mode half‐wavelength microstrip‐line resonator with two loaded stubs. The operating bandwidth of proposed phase shifters can be adjusted by changing the frequency ratio (Rf) between the third (fp3) and the first (fp1) resonant frequencies, which can be flexibly controlled by changing the length of loaded stubs. Meanwhile, phase slopes also can be aligned by further studying Rf to achieve low phase errors. For validation, 90° phase filtering phase shifters centered at 2.5 GHz are designed, and measured. Measured results indicate that the fractional bandwidth of this phase shifter can be flexibly tuned from 16% to 36% with good filtering performance. Meanwhile, the phase error and magnitude imbalance of the proposed 90° phase shifters are less than ±5° and 0.3 dB, respectively.
Sacral neuromodulation in the management of chronic pelvic pain: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Greig Julian , Mak Quentin , Furrer Marc A. , Sahai Arun , Raison Nicholas
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) is a treatment approved for use in several conditions including refractory overactive bladder (OAB) and voiding dysfunction. Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) is a debilitating condition for which treatment is often challenging. SNM shows promising effect in patients with refractory CPP. However, there is a lack of clear evidence, especially in long‐term outcomes. This systematic review will assess outcomes of SNM for treating CPP.

Methods

A systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central and clinical trial databases was completed from database inception until January 14, 2022. Studies using original data investigating SNM in an adult population with CPP which recorded pre and posttreatment pain scores were selected. Primary outcome was numerical change in pain score. Secondary outcomes were quality of life assessment and change in medication use and all‐time complications of SNM. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle Ottawa Tool for cohort studies.

Results

Twenty‐six of 1026 identified articles were selected evaluating 853 patients with CPP. The implantation rate after test‐phase success was 64.3%. Significant improvement of pain scores was reported in 13 studies; three studies reported no significant change. WMD in pain scores on a 10‐point scale was −4.64 (95% confidence interval [CI] = −5.32 to −3.95, p < 0.00001) across 20 studies which were quantitatively synthesized: effects were maintained at long‐term follow‐up. Mean follow‐up was 42.5 months (0–59). Quality of life was measured by RAND SF‐36 and EQ‐5D questionnaires and all studies reported improvement in quality of life. One hundred and eighty‐nine complications were reported in 1555 patients (Clavien‐Dindo Grade I‐IIIb). Risk of bias ranged from low to high risk. Studies were case series and bias stemmed from selection bias and loss to follow‐up.

Conclusion

Sacral Neuromodulation is a reasonably effective treatment of Chronic Pelvic Pain and significantly reduces pain and increases patients’ quality of life with immediate to long‐term effects.
Hepatic and serum branched‐chain fatty acid profile in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: A case–control study
Authors: Martínez‐Montoro José Ignacio , Núñez‐Sánchez María Ángeles , Martinez‐Sanchez María Antonia , Balaguer‐Román Andrés , Fernández‐Ruiz Virginia E. , Ferrer‐Gómez Mercedes , Sledzinski Tomasz , Frutos María Dolores , Fernández‐García José Carlos , Mika Adriana , Ramos‐Molina Bruno
Published: March 2023

Objective

Alterations in the hepatic lipidome are a crucial factor involved in the pathophysiology of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The aim of this study was to evaluate the serum and hepatic profile of branched‐chain fatty acids (BCFAs) in patients with different stages of NAFLD.

Methods

This was a case–control study performed in 27 patients without NAFLD, 49 patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver, and 17 patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, defined by liver biopsies. Serum and hepatic levels of BCFAs were analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. The hepatic expression of genes involved in the endogenous synthesis of BCFAs was analyzed by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR).

Results

A significant increase in hepatic BCFAs was found in subjects with NAFLD compared with those without NAFLD; no differences were observed in serum BCFAs between study groups. Trimethyl BCFAs, iso‐BCFAs, and anteiso‐BCFAs were increased in subjects with NAFLD (either nonalcoholic fatty liver or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis) compared with those without NAFLD. Correlation analysis showed a relationship between hepatic BCFAs and the histopathological diagnosis of NAFLD, as well as other histological and biochemical parameters related to this disease. Gene expression analysis in liver showed that the mRNA levels of BCAT1, BCAT2, and BCKDHA were upregulated in patients with NAFLD.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the increased production of liver BCFAs might be related to NAFLD development and progression.
Principled leveraging of external data in the evaluation of diagnostic devices via the propensity score‐integrated composite likelihood approach
Authors: Song Changhong , Li Heng , Chen Wei‐Chen , Lu Nelson , Tiwari Ram , Wang Chenguang , Xu Yunling , Yue Lilly Q.
Published: March 2023

In the area of diagnostics, it is common practice to leverage external data to augment a traditional study of diagnostic accuracy consisting of prospectively enrolled subjects to potentially reduce the time and/or cost needed for the performance evaluation of an investigational diagnostic device. However, the statistical methods currently being used for such leveraging may not clearly separate study design and outcome data analysis, and they may not adequately address possible bias due to differences in clinically relevant characteristics between the subjects constituting the traditional study and those constituting the external data. This paper is intended to draw attention in the field of diagnostics to the recently developed propensity score‐integrated composite likelihood approach, which originally focused on therapeutic medical products. This approach applies the outcome‐free principle to separate study design and outcome data analysis and can mitigate bias due to imbalance in covariates, thereby increasing the interpretability of study results. While this approach was conceived as a statistical tool for the design and analysis of clinical studies for therapeutic medical products, here, we will show how it can also be applied to the evaluation of sensitivity and specificity of an investigational diagnostic device leveraging external data. We consider two common scenarios for the design of a traditional diagnostic device study consisting of prospectively enrolled subjects, which is to be augmented by external data. The reader will be taken through the process of implementing this approach step‐by‐step following the outcome‐free principle that preserves study integrity.
COVID‐19 vaccine hesitancy: The synergistic effect of anxiety and proactive coping
Authors: Hughes MacKenzie L. , Neupert Shevaun D. , Smith Emily L. , Coblenz Clara W. , Macy Samuel G. , Pearman Ann
Published: March 2023

Background

This study sought to identify cognitive and behavioral predictors of COVID‐19 vaccine hesitancy. Specifically, this study examined the effect of anxiety about developing COVID‐19 and proactive coping behavior on the likelihood of reporting COVID‐19 vaccine hesitancy in a sample of adults living in the United States.

Methods

An online survey of proactive coping strategies, anxiety related to developing COVID‐19, and vaccine hesitancy was administered in October 2020 to 534 adults aged 21–79‐years old. Age, gender, race, self‐rated health, years of education, COVID‐19 knowledge, and perceived constraints were included as covariates.

Results

Over half of the study participants (56.7%) were COVID‐19 vaccine hesitant. People who were less anxious about developing COVID‐19 were more likely to be vaccine hesitant. A statistically significant COVID‐19 anxiety × proactive coping interaction showed the odds of vaccine hesitancy was highest among individuals with low anxiety about developing COVID‐19 and high proactive coping, whereas vaccine hesitancy was lowest among individuals with high COVID‐19 anxiety and high proactive coping.

Conclusion

Results support a future‐oriented approach to public health outreach efforts regarding COVID‐19 vaccines. Improvement of proactive coping skills and emphasis on the likelihood of contracting COVID‐19 may be more effective in increasing vaccine uptake than simply restating scientific facts regarding safety or efficacy.
Large‐Area Arrays of Polymer‐Tethered Gold Nanorods with Controllable Orientation and Their Application in Nano‐Floating‐Gate Memory Devices
Authors: Wang Huayang , Qian Haowen , Li Wen , Wang Ke , Li Hao , Zheng Xihuang , Gu Pan , Chen Senbin , Yi Mingdong , Xu Jiangping , Zhu Jintao
Published: March 2023

In this work, it is reported that large‐area (centimeter‐scale) arrays of non‐close‐packed polystyrene‐tethered gold nanorod (AuNR@PS) can be prepared through a liquid–liquid interfacial assembly method. Most importantly, the orientation of AuNRs in the arrays can be controlled by changing the intensity and direction of electric field applied in the solvent annealing process. The interparticle distance of AuNR can be tuned by varying the length of polymer ligands. Moreover, the AuNR@PS with short PS ligand are favorited to form orientated arrays with the assistance of electric field, while long PS ligands make the orientation of AuNRs difficult. The orientated AuNR@PS arrays are employed as the nano‐floating gate of field‐effect transistor memory device. Tunable charge trapping and retention characteristics in the device can be realized by electrical pulse with visible light illumination. The memory device with orientated AuNR@PS array required less illumination time (1 s) at the same onset voltage in programming operation, compared to the control device with disordered AuNR@PS array (illumination time: 3 s). Moreover, the orientated AuNR@PS array‐based memory device can maintain the stored data for more than 9000 s, and exhibits stable endurance characteristic without significant degradation in 50 programming/reading/erasing/reading cycles.
Site‐Specific Modification of Virus‐Like Particles for Exogenous Tumor Antigen Display and Minimizing Preexisting Immunity
Authors: Cheng Keman , Ma Nana , Liang Jie , Ma Xiaotu , Feng Qingqing , Liu Guangna , Xu Chen , Tang Ming , Zhang Lizhuo , Gao Xiaoyu , Xu Jiaqi , Wang Chufan , Zhu Fei , Wang Xinwei , Li Xiang , Zhao Xiao , Nie Guangjun
Published: March 2023

The widespread preexisting immunity against virus‐like particles (VLPs) seriously limits the applications of VLPs as vaccine vectors. Enabling technology for exogenous antigen display should not only ensure the assembly ability of VLPs and site‐specific modification, but also consider the effect of preexisting immunity on the behavior of VLPs in vivo. Here, combining genetic code expansion technique and synthetic biology strategy, a site‐specific modification method for hepatitis B core (HBc) VLPs via incorporating azido‐phenylalanine into the desired positions is described. Through modification position screening, it is found that HBc VLPs incorporated with azido‐phenylalanine at the main immune region can effectively assemble and rapidly conjugate with the dibenzocycolctyne‐modified tumor‐associated antigens, mucin‐1 (MUC1). The site‐specific modification of HBc VLPs not only improves the immunogenicity of MUC1 antigens but also shields the immunogenicity of HBc VLPs themselves, thereby activating a strong and persistent anti‐MUC1 immune response even in the presence of preexisting anti‐HBc immunity, which results in the efficient tumor elimination in a lung metastatic mouse model. Together, these results demonstrate the site‐specific modification strategy enabled HBc VLPs behave as a potent antitumor vaccine and this strategy to manipulate immunogenicity of VLPs may be suitable for other VLP‐based vaccine vectors.
Effects of intercropping of immature oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) with banana, ginger, and turmeric in the Galle District, Sri Lanka
Authors: Dissanayake Saman Mahanama , Palihakkara Indika Rohan
Published: March 2023

Oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) is considered as the world's leading edible oil producing plant and in tropical countries well established as a perennial plantation crop. Oil palm has spread over 10,000 hectares in the wet zone of the Island. Immature phase of oil palm plantation up to 5 years, there is sufficient space available inside the cultivation. Land productivity in immature plantations could be sustainably increased with some selected intercrops. A field experiment is being conducted at Thalgaswella Estate (6° 24′ 60″ °N, 80° 27′ 44″ °E. 48 m above sea level, WL2a) in Galle district to investigate the suitability of different intercrops during the immature phase. Banana, ginger, and turmeric were selected as intercrops. The experiment was designed with Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four treatments, including three replicates. Growth parameters of intercrops and maincrop were taken at 2 months intervals. Yield of intercrops were taken accordingly. In addition to this, the chlorophyll content of leaves was also measured in both intercrops and main crop. Soil chemical parameters were measured annually. There was a significant difference in the height of banana plants and the leaf width of Turmeric grown under oil palm during the first year of this experiment. Intercropped turmeric, ginger, and banana have given yields 4875, 4500, and 7550 kg/ha, respectively. During immature phase of the oil palm hardly any income to the grower, hence intercropping will give a very good chance to gain an income before the first harvest of oil palm being done. Percentage yields of intercrops were shown in banana, turmeric, and ginger as 60.64%, 32.8%, and 61.22% respectively against the monocrop and findings will help to make sustainable use of lands in oil palm plantations.
Pancreatic cancer: a glimmer of hope
Authors: Nagendram Sathyan , Bhattacharya Satyajit
Published: March 2023

Pancreatic cancer carries a very poor prognosis, with five‐year survival currently approaching 10%. Late presentation, lack of effective treatment options and a tumour microenvironment that subverts immune mechanisms are some of the reasons behind this. Here the authors discuss how advances in our understanding of tumour biology, identification and surveillance of high‐risk groups, improvements in surgical outcomes and the availability of new chemotherapeutic options give us grounds for optimism.
Changes in eating time, chewing activity and dust concentration in horses fed either alfalfa cubes or long‐stem hay
Authors: Petz Viktoria , Khiaosa‐ard Ratchaneewan , Iben Christine , Zebeli Qendrim
Published: March 2023

Background

Chewing is an essential physiological process in horses; yet, the physical form of feeds may affect their chewing and feeding behaviour with consequences for equine digestion and health.

Objectives and methods

The present study evaluated the potential of a commercial forage cubes made from alfalfa and mixed meadow grasses to maintain chewing activity when compared with a traditional long and fibre‐rich hay. An additional aim was to measure the dust formation during feeding. The experiment was a crossover design with six horses (11 ± 4 years old, mean ± SD), fed with 5 kg (as‐fed basis) of their feed (long hay or alfalfa cubes) overnight. Eating and chewing activity was measured using the EquiWatch system with a sensor‐based halter.

Results

Data showed that by feeding the same amount of feed overnight, cube feeding led to 24% shorter eating time (on average 67 min less) and 26% fewer total chews compared to the long hay. On an hourly basis, horses also spent more time eating and chewing the long hay compared to the cubes. The cube feeding led to a higher dust concentration of the inhalable fraction (<100 μm), but not of the thoracic (<10 μm) fraction. Nevertheless, average dust concentrations were generally low for both cubes and hay, whereby both were of sound hygienic status.

Conclusion and recommendation

Our data suggest that feeding alfalfa‐based cubes overnight generated shorter eating time and less chews than the long hay without major differences in the thoracic dust. Therefore, because of the decreased eating time and chews, alfalfa‐based cubes should not be fed a sole forage source, especially when it is to be fed without restriction.
Grundlagenbeitrag: Physiologische Messungen im Kontext der Evaluation von Wissenschaftskommunikation
Authors: Niemann Philipp , Scheuermann Yannic
Published: March 2023

Der Grundlagenbeitrag zu physiologischen Messungen behandelt ausgewählte, praxistaugliche Verfahren aus einem breiten Methodenspektrum, die sich für wissenschaftskommunikative Evaluationsvorhaben eignen. Vorgestellt werden diese gegliedert nach Erregungs-, Emotions-, Aufmerksamkeits- und Bewertungsindikatoren. Besonderes Augenmerk liegt auf der Methode der Blickaufzeichnung sowie auf der Real-Time-Response-Messung, deren Anwendung in der Praxis der Wissenschaftskommunikation besonders naheliegend erscheinen. Im Vergleich zu anderen Evaluationsmethoden wird deutlich, dass der Einsatz physiologischer Messungen insgesamt sowohl in Konzeption, Durchführung und Auswertung komplex ist, jedoch ein tiefgehendes Verständnis für Rezeptionsprozesse bei wissenschaftskommunikativen Artefakten schaffen kann.
Grundlagenbeitrag: Qualitative Befragungen im Kontext von Wissenschaftskommunikation
Authors: Metag Julia , Scheu Andreas M.
Published: March 2023

Der Beitrag beleuchtet das Potenzial qualitativer Befragungen zur Evaluation von Wissenschaftskommunikation. Qualitative Befragungen bieten sich immer dann an, wenn möglichst offen die Perspektiven, Bewertungen und Einschätzungen bestimmter Zielgruppen erhoben werden sollen. Insbesondere bei der Entwicklung neuer Formate und Formen von Wissenschaftskommunikation bieten sich narrative Befragungsformate zur Evaluation an. In der Forschung zeigt sich, dass halbstandardisierte Leitfadeninterviews sowie Fokusgruppen-Interviews sehr verbreitet sind. Qualitative Befragungen werden eingesetzt, um Expert:innen bzw. Wissenschaftler:innen, Bürger:innen und Vertreter:innen der Zivilgesellschaft sowie praktische Wissenschaftskommunikator:innen und Wissenschaftsjournalist:innen zu befragen. Qualitative Befragungen werden sowohl als primäre Forschungsmethode als auch in Kombination mit bzw. als Ergänzung zu standardisierten Methoden eingesetzt.
Praxisbeitrag: Qualitative Befragungen zur Evaluation von Wissenschaftskommunikation am Beispiel des Wissenschaftsvarietés Glitzern & Denken
Authors: Hedder Imke , Ziegler Ricarda , Dietermann Bonnie , Ziegler David
Published: March 2023

Wissenschaft und Kunst zu verbinden, zeichnet inzwischen viele Formate der Wissenschaftskommunikation aus. Wie Künstler:innen und Wissenschaftler:innen durch ihr Zusammenwirken wahrgenommen werden, wurde in der Evaluation des Wissenschaftsvarietés Glitzern & Denken beleuchtet. Leitfadengestützte Vorher-Nachher-Interviews mit Zuschauenden dienten dem Zweck, Zielgruppen des Formats näher kennenzulernen, ihre Vorstellungen von Wissenschaft und Kunst sowie ihre Programmbewertung zu erheben. Auf methodischer Ebene zeigt das Fallbeispiel auf, wie die Umstellung des ursprünglich reinen Präsenzformats zu einem digitalen Angebot die Evaluationsplanung veränderte und verdeutlicht das Erkenntnispotenzial, das aus wenigen, sorgfältig vorbereiteten Befragungen gewonnen werden kann. Auf inhaltlicher Ebene geben die Ergebnisse Anlass zur Reflexion, wie die Wahrnehmung von Wissenschaftler:innen durch ihre Präsentation und die Moderation in Formaten der Wissenschaftskommunikation geprägt wird.
Influence of the force magnitude of fixed functional appliances for class II subdivision 1 treatment—a cephalometric study
Authors: Sabbagh Hisham , Sabbagh Aladin , Rankovic Mila Janjic , Huber Christine , Wichelhaus Andrea , Hoffmann Lea
Published: March 2023

Purpose

To investigate the skeletal and dental effects of a hybrid fixed functional appliance (FFA) used with different force magnitudes for class II subdivision 1 treatment.

Methods

Treatment records from 70 patients were evaluated: 35 patients were treated with a FFA with standard activation (SUS group) and 35 with a FFA with an additional force-generating spring (TSUS group). Two control groups were matched from the American Association of Orthodontists Foundation (AAOF) Craniofacial Growth Legacy Collection for comparison with the two treatment groups to determine skeletal and dental treatment effects. The cephalometric parameters at T0 (before treatment) and T1 (before debonding) were assessed using the Munich standard cephalometric analysis and by the sagittal occlusal analysis (SO) according to Pancherz. Data were analyzed statistically using SPSS.

Results

No statistically significant difference for any cephalometric parameter was observed between the SUS and TSUS groups concerning the measurements at T0 and T1. Both treatment groups exhibited an effective class II therapy mainly due to a significant reduction in SNA, and ANB and an increase in SNB. In contrast to the control group, as the result of treatment a skeletal class I was achieved.

Conclusion

No significant statistical differences were observed between the patient group treated with the FFA with standard activation (SUS) and those treated with an additional spring (TSUS) regarding the cephalometric parameters investigated. Both variants were equally effective in treating class II division 1 malocclusions.
Design of a novel 2D ultrasonic transducer for 2D high-frequency vibration–assisted micro-machining
Authors: Satpute Vinod , Huo Dehong , Hedley John , Elgendy Mohammed
Published: March 2023

Ultrasonic vibration–assisted machining (VAM) is a process in which a tool or workpiece is vibrated using ultrasonic frequency small-amplitude vibrations to improve cutting performance, and an ultrasonic transducer usually generates these vibrations. This study investigates how two-dimensional vibrations are generated using axially polled piezoceramics. Modifying the wave propagation in geometric ways by creating a notch at the front mass, the longitudinal response excited by the axially polled piezoceramic discs can be converted into combined longitudinal and bending vibrations at the transducer front mass. Finite element analysis (FEA) software COMSOL is used to study wave propagation, and ANSYS is used to optimize the transducer’s mechanical structure, while an equivalent circuit approach is used to analyze the electrical impedance spectra and confirm its resonance frequency. An experimental analysis of impedance response and amplitude of generated vibrations using the novel 2D ultrasonic transducer is conducted to validate the numerical and analytical results, which shows that resonance frequency results are in very good agreement with the theoretical model. Finally, the proposed design is validated by preliminary test results that demonstrate its performance and principles.
Medizinische Evidenz kompetent kommunizieren
Authors: Wilhelm Christoph , Rebitschek Felix G.
Published: March 2023

Wie alle Patienten in Deutschland sollen auch jene in der Herzchirurgie, soweit wie möglich, in die klinische Entscheidungsfindung eingebunden werden. Was möglich ist, hängt – neben Patientenvoraussetzungen – maßgeblich von den kommunikativen Fähigkeiten und Werkzeugen ab, die der beratende Arzt einsetzt, um informiertes Entscheiden auf Basis der besten verfügbaren medizinischen Erkenntnisse zu ermöglichen. Anhand von Schlüsselherausforderungen strukturiert dieser narrative Überblick Lösungsansätze für die Nutzung medizinischer Evidenz in Entscheidungsprozessen: unbestimmte Bezugsrahmen, relative Risiken, komplexe Informationen zu Entscheidungsoptionen bis hin zur Interpretation vorangehender diagnostischer Testergebnisse. Die dargestellten Lösungsansätze stellen in die Versorgung integrierbare Werkzeuge dar. Sie erfordern eine Kompetenzstärkung des Fachpersonals und qualitätsgesicherte medizinische Informationsangebote.
Improving access to assessments of early motor development in local languages: polish adaptation of the Early Motor Questionnaire
Authors: Laudańska Zuzanna , Szmytke Magdalena , Radkowska Alicja , Malinowska-Korczak Anna , Babis Karolina , Pérez David López , Tomalski Przemysław
Published: March 2023

A child’s motor development progresses very dynamically. It is crucial to develop freely available parent-report measures of motor development that can be easily used globally to measure motor skills and identify children in need of interventions. This paper presents the adaptation and validation of the Early Motor Questionnaire, which consists of gross motor (GM), fine motor (FM), and perception–action integration (PA) subscales, to the Polish language (EMQ-PL). Study 1 (online, cross-sectional,N = 640) assessed psychometric properties of the EMQ-PL and its value in identifying children referred to physiotherapy. Results reveal excellent psychometric properties of the EMQ-PL and differences in GM and total age-independent scores between children that were and were not referred for physiotherapy. Study 2 (in-person assessment, longitudinal,N = 100) showed high correlations of GM and total scores with Alberta Infant Motor Scale.

Conclusion: Overall, the EMQ can be easily adapted to local languages and has the potential for use as a screening tool in global health contexts.What is Known:• Parent-report questionnaires - especially those available free of charge - can potentially improve the rapid assessment of motor skills in young children worldwide.• Translation, adaptation and validation of freely available parent-report measures of motor development to local languages are important for local populations.What is New:• Early Motor Questionnaire can be easily adapted to local languages and has the potential for use as a screening tool in global health contexts.• The polish version of the Early Motor Questionnaire has excellent psychometric properties and highly correlates with infants’ age and Alberta Infant Motor Scale scores.
The role of plants in the prevention of soil-slip: the G-SLIP model and its application on territorial scale through G-XSLIP platform
Authors: Montrasio Lorella , Gatto Michele Placido Antonio , Miodini Chiara
Published: March 2023

This paper discusses the role of plants in the prevention of shallow landslides induced by rain (soil slips); these phenomena, related to “hydrogeological instability,” are among the most feared because their evolutionary processes can cause huge damages and losses of human lives when interacting with anthropized areas and infrastructures. The paper first highlights how the plants interact with the soil; then introduces the G-SLIP (Green – Shallow Landslides Instability Prediction) model, i.e., the simplified physically-based SLIP model, modified to predict soil slips at punctual and large scale taking into account the vegetation effects. The G-SLIP model is thus applied to a case study of the Parma Apennines (Northern Italy) by using the G-XSLIP platform. In this area, during the intense events of rain between the 4th and 5th of April 2013, numerous landslides occurred, provoking huge damages to structures and infrastructures, and consequent economic losses. The stability analyses carried out with G-XSLIP demonstrate that the presence of vegetation in the study area led to a significant reduction in the triggering of shallow landslides. Finally, an attempt at soil slip mitigation through naturalistic techniques (planting of specific vegetation) is presented.
Using the FES framework to derive new physical degrees of freedom for finite element spaces of differential forms
Authors: Zampa Enrico , Alonso Rodríguez Ana , Rapetti Francesca
Published: March 2023

In this paper, we study a geometric approach for constructing physical degrees of freedom for sequences of finite element spaces. Within the framework of finite element systems, we propose new degrees of freedom for the spaces $\mathcal {P}_{r}{\varLambda }^{k}$

P

r

Λ

k

of polynomial differential forms and we verify numerically their unisolvence.
Seed traits and tropical arboreal species conservation: a case study of a highly diverse tropical humid forest region in Southern Costa Rica
Authors: Ley-López Juan Manuel , Wawrzyniak Mikołaj Krzysztof , Chacón-Madrigal Eduardo , Chmielarz Paweł
Published: March 2023

Tropical areas are vital for conserving endangered tree species. However, barriers to the propagation and storage of plant material still limit preservation outcomes. Seed traits are essential in conservation but have rarely been applied in the tropics. In this work, we compile information about the germination and seed desiccation tolerance behaviour of 953 arboreal species from the Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica. We analysed how those traits are related to the growing strata, seed size, and dispersal mode and how they can be used to improve conservation initiatives based on the species distribution, abundance, extinction risk, and ex situ cultivation. Over a third of the species are probably recalcitrant but this number increase to almost half among the endangered and endemic ones. Most species have seeds dispersed by animals, but wind dispersal is usually orthodox and dominant in secondary forests. All species with tiny seeds and most understorey ones with small seeds are orthodox. Approximately half of the species have dormant seeds, while nearly one-third of nondormant species have cohorts with extended germination. Almost half of the species are conserved ex situ; however, several endangered, endemics could be expected to be considered exceptional. Seed traits could target orthodox species for seed banking in tropical forests, including the potential of secondary forests and a subset of oligarch species. For the recalcitrant ones, approaches based on the risk of extinction, distribution, abundance, and ex situ status allow for prioritizing collection and conservation strategies. Under this approach, we develop a list with priority species.
Low-dose aspirin and risk of breast cancer: a Norwegian population-based cohort study of one million women
Authors: Løfling Lukas , Støer Nathalie C. , Nafisi Sara , Ursin Giske , Hofvind Solveig , Botteri Edoardo
Published: March 2023

Several studies evaluated the association between aspirin use and risk of breast cancer (BC), with inconsistent results. We identified women aged ≥ 50 years residing in Norway between 2004 and 2018, and linked data from nationwide registries; including the Cancer Registry of Norway, the Norwegian Prescription Database, and national health surveys. We used Cox regression models to estimate the association between low-dose aspirin use and BC risk, overall and by BC characteristics, women’s age and body mass index (BMI), adjusting for sociodemographic factors and use of other medications. We included 1,083,629 women. During a median follow-up of 11.6 years, 257,442 (24%) women used aspirin, and 29,533 (3%) BCs occurred. For current use of aspirin, compared to never use, we found an indication of a reduced risk of oestrogen receptor-positive (ER +) BC (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.96, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.92–1.00), but not ER-negative BC (HR = 1.01, 95%CI: 0.90–1.13). The association with ER + BC was only found in women aged ≥ 65 years (HR = 0.95, 95%CI: 0.90–0.99), and became stronger as the duration of use increased (use of ≥ 4 years HR = 0.91, 95%CI: 0.85–0.98). BMI was available for 450,080 (42%) women. Current use of aspirin was associated with a reduced risk of ER + BC in women with BMI ≥ 25 (HR = 0.91, 95%CI: 0.83–0.99; HR = 0.86, 95%CI: 0.75–0.97 for use of ≥ 4 years), but not in women with BMI < 25.Use of low-dose aspirin was associated with reduced risk of ER + BC, in particular in women aged ≥ 65 years and overweight women.
Developing a nitrogen fertilizer management model for wheat in calcareous soils using the critical nitrogen dilution curve
Authors: Ali Ali M. , Saudi Ahmed M. , El-Sadek Ashraf N. , Bijay-Singh
Published: March 2023

The critical nitrogen (N) dilution curve, which expresses whole-plant critical N concentration as a function of shoot biomass, can be used as a N management diagnostic tool for cereals. The objectives of this research were to develop a critical N dilution curve for wheat grown in calcareous soils and to formulate a model for estimating N fertilizer requirement of wheat crop at different growth stages. Six N fertilization rates (0–250 kg N ha−1) were used to induce variability in plant growth throughout six site-years (three locations at West Delta of Egypt and two seasons [2020/21-2021/22]). Aboveground shoot biomass (W; Mg DM [dry matter] ha−1) and N concentration (Nc; g kg−1DM) were determined on five sampling dates during the growing season. A critical N dilution curve was developed as:$${N}_{\mathrm{c}}=50.141 {\mathrm{W}}^{-0.424}$$Nc=50.141W-0.424. TheNcdilution curve was then used to develop a N fertilizer topdressing strategy. The study relied on N nutrition index inferred from theNcbased on N uptake, and instead of relying on a single N recovery efficiency coefficient, a variable N recovery efficiency was developed. This approach increased the hypothetical N requirements at low N application rates while decreased requirements at high N application rates, implying that theNcdilution curve can be used successfully to estimate the rates of supplemental N application. The developed strategy will provide a solid basis for precisely managing N fertilizer, though challenge ahead at the farm level will be in determining the actual shoot biomass and N concentration.
The Impact of Recognizing a Romantic Partner’s Character Strengths on Relationship Satisfaction
Authors: Habenicht Sonja , Schutte Nicola S.
Published: March 2023

Previous research indicates that identifying character strengths in oneself is beneficial. The present study investigated whether interventions focused on assisting individuals in recognizing strengths in romantic partners would influence relationship satisfaction. A randomized experimental design was used to assign a total of 243 participants (mean age = 37.3, SD = 12.1) to one of the following three conditions: identification of partner strengths, a curiosity prime followed by identification of partner strengths, and a control condition consisting of reflecting on neutral partner preferences. Participants in each condition rated their current relationship satisfaction and curiosity regarding their partners’ strengths. Participants in the recognition of partner character strengths condition reported significantly more relationship satisfaction compared to participants the control group. There were no other significant differences between groups. The findings suggest that character strength interventions could be used to improve partner relationship quality.
Thermal analysis, antimicrobial and antioxidant studies of thiosemicarbazone derivatives
Authors: Pitucha Monika , Ramos Paweł , Wojtunik-Kulesza Karolina , Głogowska Agnieszka , Stefańska Joanna , Kowalczuk Dorota , Monika Drózd , Augustynowicz-Kopeć Ewa
Published: March 2023

The aim of the presented research was to evaluate the antimicrobial, anti-tuberculosis and antioxidant activity of thiosemicarbazone derivatives. The thermal stability and thermal degradation of nineteen compounds were determined. The results obtained in in vitro tests indicate the potential of selected compounds against Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Some compounds turned out to be active free radical scavengers and at the same time Fe3+ reducing agents. The performed TGA, and c-DTA measurements showed different thermal stable of thiosemicarbazone derivatives. The T2 derivative was the most thermally resistant. On the other hand, the T11 derivative was the least resistant. The performed thermal analysis showed that most of the derivatives underwent two-stage thermal decomposition (13 samples).
Differences in Ex-Gaussian Parameters from Response Time Distributions Between Individuals with and Without Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Bella-Fernández Marcos , Martin-Moratinos Marina , Li Chao , Wang Ping , Blasco-Fontecilla Hilario
Published: March 2023

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most prevalent neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood and adolescence. Differences in reaction times (RT) in cognitive tasks have been consistently observed between ADHD and typical participants. Instead of estimating means and standard deviations, fitting non-symmetrical distributions like the ex-Gaussian, characterized by three parameters (µ, σ, and τ), account for the whole RT distributions. A meta-analysis is performed with all the available literature using ex-Gaussian distributions for comparisons between individuals with ADHD and controls. Results show that τ and σ are generally greater for ADHD samples, while µ tends to be larger for typical groups but only for younger ages. Differences in τ are also moderated by ADHD subtypes. τ and σ show, respectively, quadratic and linear relationships with inter-stimulus intervals from Continuous Performance Test and Go/No Go tasks. Furthermore, tasks and cognitive domains influence the three parameters. Interpretations of ex-Gaussian parameters and clinical implications of these findings are also discussed. Fitting ex-Gaussian distributions to RT data is a useful way to explore differences between individuals with ADHD and healthy controls.
Cognitive and Neuropathophysiological Outcomes of Gamma-tACS in Dementia: A Systematic Review
Authors: Manippa Valerio , Palmisano Annalisa , Nitsche Michael A. , Filardi Marco , Vilella Davide , Logroscino Giancarlo , Rivolta Davide
Published: March 2023

Despite the numerous pharmacological interventions targeting dementia, no disease-modifying therapy is available, and the prognosis remains unfavorable. A promising perspective involves tackling high-frequency gamma-band (> 30 Hz) oscillations involved in hippocampal-mediated memory processes, which are impaired from the early stages of typical Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Particularly, the positive effects of gamma-band entrainment on mouse models of AD have prompted researchers to translate such findings into humans using transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS), a methodology that allows the entrainment of endogenous cortical oscillations in a frequency-specific manner. This systematic review examines the state-of-the-art on the use of gamma-tACS in Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and dementia patients to shed light on its feasibility, therapeutic impact, and clinical effectiveness. A systematic search from two databases yielded 499 records resulting in 10 included studies and a total of 273 patients. The results were arranged in single-session and multi-session protocols. Most of the studies demonstrated cognitive improvement following gamma-tACS, and some studies showed promising effects of gamma-tACS on neuropathological markers, suggesting the feasibility of gamma-tACS in these patients anyhow far from the strong evidence available for mouse models. Nonetheless, the small number of studies and their wide variability in terms of aims, parameters, and measures, make it difficult to draw firm conclusions. We discuss results and methodological limitations of the studies, proposing possible solutions and future avenues to improve research on the effects of gamma-tACS on dementia.
Comparative assessment of life cycle impacts of various plastic waste management scenarios in Johannesburg, South Africa
Authors: Mazhandu Zvanaka S. , Muzenda Edison , Belaid Mohamed , Nhubu Trust
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Landfilling can result in a loss in revenue that would otherwise have been accrued from recycling plastic waste, loss in potential jobs, and groundwater contamination. Plastics in landfills may also eventually find their way into marine environments, where they can be damaging to animals. This work aims to establish the environmental sustainability of current plastic waste management practices in South Africa using the City of Johannesburg (CoJ) as a case study.

Methodology

Five scenarios encompassing combinations of landfilling, mechanical recycling, incineration with energy recovery, gasification, and use of plastic waste in a cement kiln were assessed through an environmental Life Cycle Assessment (e-LCA). Scenarios were developed based on an extensive literature review, current practices in South Africa and Europe, and the country’s National Waste Management strategy, which aims to achieve “zero waste to landfill”. SimaPro 9.1.1 software and the Ecoinvent Database were used to assess the life cycle impacts of each scenario over seven impact categories. The ReCiPe endpoint method, Egalitarian version, was employed in determining the impact potentials. A sensitivity analysis was also carried out to evaluate the model’s robustness.

Results and discussion

Overall, the impact assessment results, including damage assessments and single score results, revealed that moving away from landfilling and combining mechanical recycling, incineration, gasification, and use of plastic waste (PW) as solid refuse fuel in a cement kiln is the least environmentally impactful scenario when managing plastic waste. Landfilling alone was the worst-performing scenario, resulting in adverse effects on human health, ecosystems, and resource depletion. This agrees with the waste hierarchy. On sensitivity analysis, the increase in transportation distances and reduction in market substitution factor in mechanical recycling did not change the ranking of scenarios despite reducing the net benefits to the environment. Including open dumping as an end-of-life scenario significantly increased the negative impact of the current plastic waste management scenario being practised in South Africa, while assuming a 100% mechanical recycling rate had the least environmental impact when compared to the other modelled scenarios.

Conclusions

The current plastic waste management practices in South Africa were found to be environmentally unsustainable based on the modelled scenarios, and a move away from landfilling is encouraged. The outcomes of this study will assist policymakers and other stakeholders in making informed decisions based on scientific evidence when formulating sustainability-related waste management policies.
Multimodal exploration of the intracranial aneurysm wall
Authors: Niemann Annika , Tulamo Riikka , Netti Eliisa , Preim Bernhard , Berg Philipp , Cebral Juan , Robertson Anne , Saalfeld Sylvia
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Intracranial aneurysms (IAs) are pathological changes of the intracranial vessel wall, although clinical image data can only show the vessel lumen. Histology can provide wall information but is typically restricted to ex vivo 2D slices where the shape of the tissue is altered.

Methods

We developed a visual exploration pipeline for a comprehensive view of an IA. We extract multimodal information (like stain classification and segmentation of histologic images) and combine them via 2D to 3D mapping and virtual inflation of deformed tissue. Histological data, including four stains, micro-CT data and segmented calcifications as well as hemodynamic information like wall shear stress (WSS), are combined with the 3D model of the resected aneurysm.

Results

Calcifications were mostly present in the tissue part with increased WSS. In the 3D model, an area of increased wall thickness was identified and correlated to histology, where the Oil red O (ORO) stained images showed a lipid accumulation and the alpha-smooth muscle actin (aSMA) stained images showed a slight loss of muscle cells.

Conclusion

Our visual exploration pipeline combines multimodal information about the aneurysm wall to improve the understanding of wall changes and IA development. The user can identify regions and correlate how hemodynamic forces, e.g. WSS, are reflected by histological structures of the vessel wall, wall thickness and calcifications.
Comparison of radiomics models and dual-energy material decomposition to decipher abdominal lymphoma in contrast-enhanced CT
Authors: Bernatz Simon , Koch Vitali , Dos Santos Daniel Pinto , Ackermann Jörg , Grünewald Leon D. , Weitkamp Inga , Yel Ibrahim , Martin Simon S. , Lenga Lukas , Scholtz Jan-Erik , Vogl Thomas J. , Mahmoudi Scherwin
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The radiologists’ workload is increasing, and computational imaging techniques may have the potential to identify visually unequivocal lesions, so that the radiologist can focus on equivocal and critical cases. The purpose of this study was to assess radiomics versus dual-energy CT (DECT) material decomposition to objectively distinguish visually unequivocal abdominal lymphoma and benign lymph nodes.

Methods

Retrospectively, 72 patients [m, 47; age, 63.5 (27–87) years] with nodal lymphoma (n = 27) or benign abdominal lymph nodes (n = 45) who had contrast-enhanced abdominal DECT between 06/2015 and 07/2019 were included. Three lymph nodes per patient were manually segmented to extract radiomics features and DECT material decomposition values. We used intra-class correlation analysis, Pearson correlation and LASSO to stratify a robust and non-redundant feature subset. Independent train and test data were applied on a pool of four machine learning models. Performance and permutation-based feature importance was assessed to increase the interpretability and allow for comparison of the models. Top performing models were compared by the DeLong test.

Results

About 38% (19/50) and 36% (8/22) of the train and test set patients had abdominal lymphoma. Clearer entity clusters were seen in t-SNE plots using a combination of DECT and radiomics features compared to DECT features only. Top model performances of AUC = 0.763 (CI = 0.435–0.923) were achieved for the DECT cohort and AUC = 1.000 (CI = 1.000–1.000) for the radiomics feature cohort to stratify visually unequivocal lymphomatous lymph nodes. The performance of the radiomics model was significantly (p = 0.011, DeLong) superior to the DECT model.

Conclusions

Radiomics may have the potential to objectively stratify visually unequivocal nodal lymphoma versus benign lymph nodes. Radiomics seems superior to spectral DECT material decomposition in this use case. Therefore, artificial intelligence methodologies may not be restricted to centers with DECT equipment.