bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Genetic Origin Analysis of Copy Number Variations in Non‐Invasive Prenatal Testing
Authors: Wang Jing , Zhu Qing‐Wen , Cui Ai‐Ming , Lin Meng‐Si , Lou Hai‐Qin
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study aimed to assess the application of origin analysis of copy number variations (CNVs) in non‐invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) and provide a basis for expanding the clinical application of NIPT.

Method

We enrolled 35,317 patients who underwent NIPT between January 2019 and March 2023. Genome sequencing of copy number variation (CNV‐Seq) analysis was performed using the CNV calling pipeline to identify subchromosomal abnormalities in maternal plasma. Genetic origin was determined by comparing the chimaerism ratio of CNV and the concentration of cell‐free foetal DNA (cffDNA). All pregnant women with a high risk of CNV, as indicated by the NIPT, were informed of their genetic origins. Amniocentesis was recommended for detecting the CNVs in foetal chromosomes, and pregnancy outcomes were tracked.

Results

A total of 109 pregnancies showed clinically significant positive results for CNV after NIPT, including 65 cases of maternal/foetal (M/F)‐CNVs and 44 cases of F‐CNVs. The occurrence of M/F‐CNVs was independent of age, screening (serological or ultrasound) indications for abnormalities, and mode of pregnancy. The incidence of pathogenic/likely pathogenic (P/LP)‐F‐CNVs was high in cases where serological screening indicated intermediate, high‐risk, or abnormal US findings (p < 0.05). In the M/F‐CNV group, most of the P/LP‐CNVs were small fragments with low penetrance; 55 (84.62%) were less than 5 Mb in size, and nine (13.85%) were between 5 and 10 Mb. In the F‐CNV group, foetal P/LP‐CNV was detected in 36 of 42 cases undergoing prenatal diagnosis, and no significant bias was noted in the size distribution of P/LP‐F‐CNV fragments. The prenatal diagnostic rate and positive predictive value in the F‐CNV group were 95.45% and 85.71%, respectively, which were significantly different from those in the M/F group (26.15% and 52.95%), respectively (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Genetic origin analysis of CNV can effectively improve adherence to prenatal diagnosis in pregnant women and the accuracy of prenatal diagnosis.
Gatekeeper training for youth suicide prevention: A mixed method comparative analysis of two online programs
Authors: Kreuze Elizabeth , York Janet , Lamis Dorian A. , Jenkins Carolyn , Quinnett Paul , Mueller Martina , Ruggiero Kenneth J.
Published: October 2024

The overriding aim of this study was to conduct a side‐by‐side comparative evaluation of two online suicide prevention gatekeeper‐training programs: Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) and Making Educators Partners in Youth Suicide Prevention (MEP). Specific aims included identifying program components, instructional methods, and technology elements that are well received by school personnel and that increase knowledge and self‐efficacy. QPR and MEP were directly assessed following levels one and two of Kirkpatrick's Model (i.e., reactions to training, program efficacy), and indirectly assessed at levels three and four (i.e., future gatekeeper behaviors, potential school community impact). QPR and MEP produced positive outcomes with respect to reactions, knowledge, and self‐efficacy (i.e., Kirkpatrick levels one and two). MEP and QPR also produced partial support with respect to behavior and impact (i.e., Kirkpatrick levels three and four), given the limited objective data demonstrating consistent application of gatekeeper skills that reduce community suicidal behaviors. Taken together, future research should evaluate inclusion of innovative pedagogical approaches and strategic online classroom design, which may enhance learning motivation, attitudes, and self‐efficacy. Research should also objectively evaluate intermediate and longer‐term behavioral outcomes to identify population‐level impact.
The effect of trunk exercises with hip strategy training to maximize independence level and balance for patient with stroke: Randomized controlled study
Authors: Almasoudi Alanoud O. , Seyam Mohamed K. , Sanchez Froiland
Published: October 2024

Background

Balance while seated and the capacity to conduct selective trunk movements are significant predictors of functional outcomes following stroke. Patients with inappropriate muscle activation and inadequate movement control in the trunk muscles cause mobility and daily function difficulties. Stroke patients have weak leg muscles and decreased balance, resulting in compensatory changes. Functional postural strategy training is necessary to restore balance in these patients. Few studies have examined the effect of physical therapy trunk exercises with hip strategy training on improving balance and increasing independence after stroke.

Purpose

This study aimed to explore the effect of selective trunk exercises (STE) with hip strategy training in improving balance in patients with stroke as well as independence levels.

Method

A multicenter inpatient stroke treatment randomized pre‐ and post‐test control trial. Forty‐six stroke survivors were randomly allocated to experimental or control groups (n = 23 each). The experimental group received hip strategy training and trunk exercises. All groups received Neuro‐Developmental Treatment (NDT)‐based physical therapy four times a week for 6 weeks. Trunk impairment scale, Berg Balance Scale (BBS), and functional independence measure (FIM) measured static and dynamic seated balance, functional balance, and trunk movement coordination pre‐ and post‐therapy.

Results

The experimental group's post‐therapeutic measures were substantially higher than the control group. The experimental group's TIS score, and subscale improved more than the control group. The experimental group considerably increased the BBS score. The experimental group also showed greater FIM gains.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that adding STE in conjunction with hip strategy training to patients after has a positive impact on trunk control while maintaining static and dynamic sitting balance, functional balance, and independence levels which are effective in stroke rehabilitation.
AdS3×S3$AdS_3 \times S^3$ Background From Poisson–Lie T‐Duality
Authors: Eghbali Ali
Published: October 2024

The author proceed to construct a dual pair for the background by applying non‐Abelian T‐duality (here as Poisson–Lie [PL] T‐duality on a semi‐Abelian double). By using a certain parametrization of the 4‐dimensional Lie group and by a suitable choice of spectator‐dependent matrices the original ‐model including the metric and a non‐trivial ‐field are constructed. The dual background constructed by means of the PL T‐duality with the spectators is an asymptotically flat one with a potential black hole interpretation supported by a non‐trivial ‐flux whose metric contains the true singularity with a single horizon. The question of classical integrability of the non‐Abelian T‐dual ‐models under consideration is addressed, and their corresponding Lax pairs are found, depending on some spectral parameters. Finally, the conformal invariance conditions of the models are checked up to two‐loop order, and it has been concluded that the resulting model is indeed a solution of supergravity.
How inaccurate offshore wind observations impact the quality of operational numerical weather prediction
Authors: Køltzow Morten , Øiestad Merete , Azad Roohollah , Rugaard Furevik Birgitte , Olsen Anne‐Mette , Remes Teresa
Published: October 2024

At Norwegian offshore platforms, wind speed is observed at heights between approx. 35 and approx. 150 m a.s.l. These observations are used to estimate 10‐m wind speed, by a power law with a constant wind shear coefficient. The resulting 10‐m wind speed is then distributed to the Global Telecommunication System (GTS) and used for assimilation and verification purposes by the meteorological community. However, multiple methods with varying results exist for the reduction of wind speed from the original measurement height to 10 m. The resulting estimate of 10‐m wind speed is therefore sensitive to the choice of method. The use of such observations may therefore be suboptimal in forecast analysis and make the forecast verification difficult to interpret. This study investigates how the use of these observations impacts forecasts from the operational regional forecast system used at MET Norway and the Global Integrated Forecast System operated by ECMWF for the period 2017–2023. Both forecast systems assimilated the observations over major parts of the period and the presented results indicate that the use of these observations increased the initial errors in the forecasts. This is confirmed in a data denial experiment over a shorter period of time. The verification results show that both forecast systems underestimate the wind speed at the original measurement heights, while the results for 10‐m verification vary with the interpolation method between original sensor height and 10 m. The forecasts show in general more wind than the GTS‐distributed estimates and are in better agreement with more advanced interpolation methods. The verification results show a strong dependency on the vertical stability of the atmosphere. The major differences between the forecast systems are that the regional system shows less bias, while the standard deviations of the errors are slightly lower in the global system.
Minimally Invasive Pelvic and Acetabular Surgery: Case Report of a Robot‐Assisted Osteosynthesis of an Open‐Book Injury of the Pelvic Ring
Authors: Küper Markus A. , Johannink Jonas , Amend Bastian , Histing Tina , Herath Steven C.
Published: October 2024

Background

In recent years, endoscopic treatment of pelvic ring injuries has emerged. In addition to the complex 3D anatomy of the bony pelvis, a particular challenge is its embedding in the surrounding soft tissue structures. It is known from other surgical specialties that the preparation can be facilitated by using surgical robot systems.

Materials and Methods

In a patient with an open‐book injury of the pelvic ring, a symphysis plate was performed using the DaVinci system.

Results

We describe the robotic‐assisted osteosynthesis on the anterior pelvic ring with available instruments.

Conclusion

The further development of minimally invasive surgical techniques is always linked to the development of new instruments. For trauma surgery, this means in particular the reduction of dislocated fractures. If appropriate techniques and instruments are developed here, minimally invasive treatment of injuries to the pelvic ring or acetabulum may represent an alternative to open procedures in the future.
Short‐Term Surgical Outcomes After Robotic Liver Surgery: A Propensity‐Score Matched Analysis With Conventional Open Liver Surgery at a High‐Volume Centre in Denmark
Authors: Fukumori Daisuke , Tschuor Christoph , Hamada Takashi , Schultz Nicolai Aagaard , Krohn Paul Suno , Burgdorf Stefan , Penninga Luit , Henrik Storkholm Jan , Pedersen Christian Ross , Hillingsø Jens , Svendsen Lars Bo , Larsen Peter Nørgaard
Published: October 2024

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate the perioperative outcomes of robotic liver surgery (RLS) and Open liver surgery (OLS) in a centre with a high number of operations.

Methods

A 1:1 propensity score matched (PSM) analysis of a retrospective database of RLS and OLS was performed. Cumulative sum (CUSUM) analysis was performed to identify learning curves.

Result

After PSM analysis, operative time was significantly longer in the RLS group (p < 0.001). Estimated blood loss was significantly lower in the RLS group (p < 0.001). Transfusion rates were significantly lower in the RLS group. The length of hospital stay was shorter in the RLS group (3.5vs6.3 days, p < 0.001). Readmission rates were significantly lower in the RLS group (p < 0.049). CUSUM analysis showed a learning curve for at least 8 low—intermediate RLS procedures and 27 advanced—Expert RLS procedures.

Conclusions

RLS has many advantages, including being safe to perform, less blood loss and faster postoperative recovery compared with OLS.
Adaptive Free‐Will Arbitrary Time Tracking of a Class of Uncertain SISO Nonlinear Systems
Authors: Yoo Sung Jin
Published: October 2024

This paper investigates the free‐will arbitrary time (FWAT) tracking problem for a class of single‐input single‐output (SISO) strict‐feedback nonlinear systems without/with parametric uncertainties. First, we design an FWAT backstepping tracking controller for strict‐feedback nonlinear systems without uncertainties in a recursive manner. It is shown that the proposed virtual controllers and their derivatives are continuously differentiable for the backstepping design, and the tracking error converges to zero within the pre‐specified settling time independent of design parameters and initial conditions and remains at zero after the pre‐specified settling time. Second, we address the adaptive FWAT tracking problem of SISO strict‐feedback nonlinear systems with parametric uncertainties in the practical stability sense. The continuously differentiable and nonsingular time‐varying adjustment functions for practical FWAT tracking are developed to transform error variables for the recursive backstepping design. Then, the adaptive FWAT backstepping tracking design and stability analysis strategy are established to ensure practical FWAT convergence within the pre‐specified settling time independent of design parameters and initial conditions. The designed adaptive virtual and actual controllers are continuous for all . Furthermore, a practical adaptive prescribed‐time tracking scheme is provided using the proposed practical adaptive FWAT tracking scheme. Finally, the effectiveness of the theoretical approaches is confirmed through a simulation example and an experimental result.
Interaction With Exhibits: The Significance of Instrumentalization
Authors: Iłowiecka‐Tańska Ilona , Potęga vel Żabik Katarzyna
Published: October 2024

How is it that the millions of visitors who flock to science centers each year are able to make use of the exhibits there? How do they discover the properties of previously unknown machines? How much time does it take? What is the significance of the process? An issue of particular interest to us is how visitors figure out what they can do with an exhibit and how they can do it. We interpret this as a process of instrumentalization, transforming an object into an instrument of human activity. Drawing on the Instrumented Activity Situations Model, this paper focuses on the instrumentalization of exhibits and the sense‐making process within the visitor–exhibit physical interaction. After discussing two empirical cases of children (9 and 11 years old) interacting with an open‐ended dynamical exhibit, we claim that by instrumenting an exhibit under a set of inherent constraints, visitors develop new enactive competence (coordinated motor action tethered to new perceptual orientation), just as one would learn to ride a bicycle or to work with a lathe machine. We argue that the attention of researchers, hitherto focused primarily on content‐based knowledge development, should be equally focused on the kind of procedural knowledge development evident in “making a machine one's own.”
Utilizing Coconut Biochar as a Bio‐reinforcing Agent in Natural Rubber Composites
Authors: Sittitanadol Ing‐orn , Srakeaw Nuan La‐ong , Somdee Patcharapon , Chumsamrong Pranee , Noyming Sombut , Singsang Witawat , Prasoetsopha Natkrita
Published: October 2024

This research investigates the pyrolysis of biochar from different parts of residual aromatic young coconut waste, namely coconut fruit, coconut bunch, and coconut leaf, to be used as fillers in natural rubber (NR). Scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy reveals that biochar has a flake‐like structure with a high carbon content (67%–77%). The biochar is mixed with NR using a two‐roll mill at filler contents of 0, 10, 20, 30, and 40 phr (part per hundred of rubber). Adding coconut fruit biochar at 40 phr increases the Shore A hardness to 59.62, a remarkable 47% improvement compared with unfilled NR. The maximum tensile strength occurs at 20 phr, while the highest tensile modulus (4.53 MPa) and tear strength (17,344 N m−1) are observed at 40 phr. Moreover, the swelling index of composites in toluene decreases slightly as biochar content increases, and the crosslink density is higher for NR filled with coconut fruit biochar than for other biochar types. Based on these results, coconut fruit biochar is identified as the most effective reinforcement filler for NR among the biochar types studied. Consequently, it can be used as a bio‐reinforcing agent in NR composites, contributing to sustainability and eco‐friendliness.
Impact of pain, fatigue and bowel incontinence on the quality of life of people living with inflammatory bowel disease: A UK cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Roukas Chris , Miller Laura , Cléirigh Büttner Fionn , Hamborg Thomas , Stagg Imogen , Hart Alisa , Gordeev Vladimir Sergeevich , Lindsay James O. , Norton Christine , Mihaylova Borislava
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims

People with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) often experience pain, fatigue and bowel incontinence and are at an increased risk of anxiety and depression. Our aim was to assess the impact of these symptoms on health‐related quality of life (QoL) in IBD.

Methods

In the IBD‐BOOST survey, over 26,000 people with IBD across the UK were approached; 8486 participant‐completed surveys were returned. Participants' QoL was measured using the EQ‐5D‐5L questionnaire and their QoL was calculated on a scale ranging from 1 (perfect health) to −0.594 (worst health). Item non‐response was imputed. Stages of linear regression models assessed the associations of symptoms with QoL controlling for IBD type, socio‐demographic characteristics, co‐morbidities and, in further analysis, for IBD activity and IBD control.

Results

The EQ‐5D‐5L questionnaire was fully completed by 8093 (95.4%) participants (mean age of 50 years [SD 15]; 49% with Crohn's disease). The mean QoL was 0.76 (SD 0.23). From the three IBD‐related symptoms, pain was associated with the largest QoL decrement (−0.159), followed by fatigue (−0.140) and bowel incontinence (−0.048). Co‐occurrence of pain and fatigue further reduced QoL. Clear graded associations were observed between symptom severity and QoL decrements (all trend p < 0.001). Depression and anxiety were also associated with significant QoL decrements (−0.102 and −0.110 for moderate‐to‐severe anxiety and moderately severe depression, respectively). Worse IBD control and higher IBD activity were associated with lower QoL.

Conclusions

We report strong associations between symptoms of pain, fatigue, bowel incontinence, anxiety, depression, and their severity and reduced QoL in IBD. These estimates could inform future IBD management interventions.
Polyaniline as a dual flame retardant and electrostatic dissipative additive in polyethylene nanocomposites
Authors: Adisa Akeem , Asante Joseph K. O. , Ojijo Vincent O. , Mapossa António B. , Mhike Washington
Published: October 2024

Polyolefins, such as polyethylene (PE), are highly flammable and electrically insulative, limiting their applicability. The study explored the flame‐retardancy and electrical conductivity of PE/polyaniline (PE/PANI) nanocomposites containing undoped PANI, PANI doped, and co‐doped with various acids and PANI modified with a double layered hydroxide or ammonium polyphosphate (APP). The nanocomposites were synthesized through in situ chemical oxidative polymerization of aniline and compression molding. Flame retardancy was evaluated using UL 94 tests and cone calorimetry. All nanocomposites, except the de‐doped PANI nanocomposite, attained a UL 94 V2 rating. Cone calorimeter results showed that PANI doped with H3PO4 reduced the peak heat release rate by 20% compared to neat PE, whereas co‐doping PANI with H3PO4 and phytic acid reduced it by 31%. The nanocomposites exhibited volume resistivity for suitable for electrotactic dissipation applications but showed marginally reduced mechanical properties. This study demonstrates the potential to develop electrostatic dissipative and flame‐retardant PE nanocomposites incorporating PANI.

Highlights

PE/PANI nanocomposites were synthesized.

PANI doped with H3PO4 reduced the peak HRR by 20%.

Co‐doping PANI with H3PO4 and phytic acid further reduced peak HRR.

Nanocomposites attained a UL 94 V2 rating.

PE/PANI nanocomposites were electrostatic dissipative.
Flow of a biomagnetic fluid embedded by magnetic dipole over a continuously moving sheet
Authors: Anjum Jumana Sadia , Ferdows Mohammad , Tzirtzilakis Efstratios Em , Murtaza Mohammad Guhlum
Published: October 2024

This paper is concerned with the investigation of steady, two‐dimensional, and laminar boundary layer flow of a biomagnetic fluid over a continuously moving sheet in the presence of a magnetic dipole. The magnetic field resulting from the dipole is contemplated to be strong enough to saturate the biofluid. The magnetization of the fluid is regarded to be a linear function of temperature. The solution procedure involves the reduction of a nonlinear system of coupled PDEs into ODEs that comprise five parameters. The transformed ODEs along with the boundary conditions are then solved numerically by introducing an efficient numerical technique based on the finite difference algorithm. The velocity, as well as temperature profiles within the boundary layer, are illustrated at specified values of free stream velocity (), wall velocity () and ferrohydrodynamic interaction parameter (). The demonstration of the Nusselt number and friction factor are achieved for various governing parameters. Considering a specified Prandtl number () and normalized velocity difference , higher values of the friction factor are obtained for increasing and than that of . Whereas for the Nusselt number, we attain higher values for decreasing and . Moreover, an increase in the velocity ratio results in a decrease in both heat transfer rate as well as friction factor. Furthermore, as increases, the heat transfer rate decreases yet we get higher values for higher and . In the case of friction factor, it increases with increasing and gives higher values for lower and higher . We have also depicted the streamlines for the 2‐D boundary layer flow of the biomagnetic fluid for different . The graphical results manifest that the flow field is greatly impacted by the ferrohydrodynamic field, which could be of interest in medical as well as bioengineering implementations, like, magnetic drug delivery in blood cells, separating RBCs as well as controlling the flow of blood during surgical procedures.
Cities Cluster II: High Diversity and High Segregation
Authors: Pisarevskaya Asya , Scholten Peter
Published: October 2024

The second cluster of cities of migration in terms of their diversity configuration that we defined in the inductive analysis of Chap. 3, involves cities which are very diverse but are relatively segregated. For this cluster, we also selected one city from each of the four selected countries to develop a better understanding of it: Ingolstadt (GER), Modena (ITA), Nîmes (FRA) and Rotterdam (NL).
Recursion for Wilson-line form factors
Authors: Cohen Timothy , Riembau Marc
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Matrix elements of Wilson-line dressed operators play a central role in the factorization of soft and collinear modes in gauge theories. When expressed using spinor helicity variables, these so-called form factors admit a classification starting from a Maximally Helicity Violating configuration, in close analogy with gauge theory amplitudes. We show that a single-line complex momentum shift can be used to derive recursion relations that efficiently compute these helicity form factors at tree-level: a combination of lower point form factors and on-shell amplitudes serve as the input building blocks. We obtain novel compact expressions for the 1 → 2 and 1 → 3 splitting functions in QCD, which also serves to validate our methods.
Removal of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Organic Matter, and Heavy Metals from Pig-Farming Wastewater Using a Microalgae-Bacteria Consortium
Authors: Sacristan de Alva M. , Oceguera-Vargas I. , Lamas-Cosío E. , León-Aguirre K. , Arcega-Cabrera F.
Published: October 2024

Wastewater generated by the pork industry urgently requires the implementation of low-cost, high-benefit, and efficient treatment systems. Accordingly, a microalgae-bacteria consortia-based treatment system is proposed for the removal of contaminants released, by the pork-producing industry, in swine wastewater. In this study, different inoculum concentrations of the microalgae-bacteria consortium were tested to document variation in the removal of nutrients from the wastewater. At varying concentrations, it was efficient and did not present a significant difference in the removal kinetics. The treatment with the greatest amount of inoculum removed close to 87% of total nitrogen, approximately 70% of orthophosphate, and 77% of chemical oxygen demand. Removals of 84% iron, 44% copper, and 48% manganese were also obtained. These results demonstrate that microalgae-bacteria consortia are an economically viable and environmentally desirable option for the efficient treatment of wastewater from the pork industry.
The last-success stopping problem with random observation times
Authors: Gnedin Alexander , Derbazi Zakaria
Published: October 2024

Suppose N independent Bernoulli trials with success probabilities $$p_1, p_2,\ldots $$

p
1

,

p
2

,
…

are observed sequentially at times of a mixed binomial process. The task is to maximise, by using a nonanticipating stopping strategy, the probability of stopping at the last success. The case $$p_k=1/k$$

p
k

=
1
/
k

has been studied by many authors as a version of the familiar best choice problem, where both N and the observation times are random. We consider a more general profile $$p_k=\theta /(\theta +k-1)$$

p
k

=
θ
/

(
θ
+
k
-
1
)

and assume that the prior distribution of N is negative binomial with shape parameter $$\nu $$
ν
, so the arrivals occur at times of a mixed Poisson process. The setting with two parameters offers a high flexibility in understanding the nature of the optimal strategy, which we show is intrinsically related to monotonicity properties of the Gaussian hypergeometric function. Using this connection, we find that the myopic stopping strategy is optimal if and only if $$\nu \ge \theta $$

ν
≥
θ

. Furthermore, we derive formulas to assess the winning probability and discuss limit forms of the problem for large N.
Adjoint-Based Calibration of Nonlinear Stochastic Differential Equations
Authors: Bartsch Jan , Denk Robert , Volkwein Stefan
Published: October 2024

To study the nonlinear properties of complex natural phenomena, the evolution of the quantity of interest can be often represented by systems of coupled nonlinear stochastic differential equations (SDEs). These SDEs typically contain several parameters which have to be chosen carefully to match the experimental data and to validate the effectiveness of the model. In the present paper the calibration of these parameters is described by nonlinear SDE-constrained optimization problems. In the optimize-before-discretize setting a rigorous analysis is carried out to ensure the existence of optimal solutions and to derive necessary first-order optimality conditions. For the numerical solution a Monte–Carlo method is applied using parallelization strategies to compensate for the high computational time. In the numerical examples an Ornstein–Uhlenbeck and a stochastic Prandtl–Tomlinson bath model are considered.
Combinations of physical and cognitive training for subcortical neurodegenerative diseases with physical, cognitive and behavioral symptoms: a systematic review
Authors: Chartier Coline , Godard Julien , Durand Sylvain , Humeau-Heurtier Anne , Menetrier Emmanuelle , Allain Philippe , Besnard Jérémy
Published: October 2024

Background

The onset of the symptoms of subcortical NDs is due to a unique part of the brain which strengthens the idea of reciprocal influence of physical activity and cognitive training in improving clinical symptoms. Consequently, protocols combining the two stimulations are becoming increasingly popular in NDs. Our threefold aim was to (A) describe the different combinations of physical and cognitive training used to alleviate the motor and cognitive symptoms of patients with subcortical neurodegenerative disorders, (B) compare the effects of these different combinations (sequential, dual tasking, synergical) on symptoms, and (C) recommend approaches for further studies.

Methods

We conducted literature searches of PubMed, BASE and ACM, to carry out a systematic review of randomized controlled trials and controlled trials of combined physical and cognitive training among patients with Huntington’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Lewy body dementia, spinocerebellar ataxia, Friedreich’s ataxia, and progressive supranuclear palsy. Physical, neuropsychological, behavioral outcomes were considered. The Cochrane risk-of-bias tool was used to verify the critical appraisal.

Results

Twenty-one studies focused on Parkinson’s disease with 940 participants were included. Despites promising benefits on cognitive and physical function, our results revealed discrepant findings for research on combined training.

Discussion

Inconsistencies were linked to the choice of tests, the functions that were targeted, disease progression, and trainings. There was a dearth of follow-up data.

Conclusions

Differences between combined training are unclear, particularly regarding the role of cognitive load. Future studies should focus on comparing the feasibility, tolerability, and effectiveness of different combinations of motor-cognitive training.
Strategy complexity of limsup and liminf threshold objectives in countable MDPs, with applications to optimal expected payoffs
Authors: Mayr Richard , Munday Eric
Published: October 2024

We study Markov decision processes with a countably infinite number of states. The $$\limsup $$
lim sup
(resp. $$\liminf $$
lim inf
) threshold objective is to maximize the probability that the $$\limsup $$
lim sup
(resp. $$\liminf $$
lim inf
) of the infinite sequence of directly seen rewards is non-negative. We establish the complete picture of the strategy complexity of these objectives, i.e., the upper and lower bounds on the memory required by $$\varepsilon $$
ε
-optimal (resp. optimal) strategies. We then apply these results to solve two open problems from (Sudderth in Decis Econ Finan 43:43–54, 2020) about the strategy complexity of optimal strategies for the expected$$\limsup $$
lim sup
(resp. $$\liminf $$
lim inf
) payoff.
The role of trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole in preventing opportunistic infections in systemic lupus erythematosus patients receiving low-level immunosuppressive treatment: an open-label, randomized, controlled trial
Authors: Munthananuchat Paopat , Ngamjanyaporn Pintip , Pisitkun Prapaporn , Rotjanapan Porpon
Published: October 2024

Objective: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy are at risk for opportunistic infections (OIs), particularly Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP). This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX) as primary prophylaxis against OIs and its adverse effects in SLE patients receiving low-level immunosuppressive treatment in a real-world setting. Methods: This open-label randomized controlled trial enrolled SLE patients receiving low-level immunosuppressive treatment at Ramathibodi Hospital between May 2021 and December 2022. Patient demographics and relevant clinical data were collected. Participants were randomized 1:1 to receive TMP/SMX or no prophylaxis, with dose adjustments according to renal function. The incidences of TMP/SMX-sensitive OIs and adverse events were monitored for 12 months post-enrollment. Results: The trial was terminated early due to a high rate of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) associated with TMP/SMX. In total, 138 SLE patients receiving low-level immunosuppressive treatment were enrolled. Most patients (98.4%) were in disease remission. No TMP/SMX-sensitive OIs were observed in either group during the 12-month follow-up period. Among individuals receiving TMP/SMX, 10/70 (14.3%) developed ADRs. Of these 10 patients, eight experienced grade 1 ADRs, and two had grade 3 ADRs; all declined to resume prophylaxis. There were no deaths in the study. Conclusions: During the 12-month follow-up period, no TMP/SMX-sensitive OIs occurred in SLE patients receiving low-level immunosuppressive therapy, suggesting that primary prophylaxis with TMP/SMX may not significantly benefit this population. The high rate of ADRs observed underscores the need for clinicians to carefully consider the risks and benefits of TMP/SMX prophylaxis in these patients.
High-rate bridge displacement monitoring with low-rate virtual reference station data
Authors: Qu Xuanyu , Ding Xiaoli , Yu Wenkun , Li Xinrui , Xu You-Lin
Published: October 2024

We present a new Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) positioning approach that utilizes low-rate Virtual Reference Station (VRS) data to achieve high-rate displacement monitoring. The method integrates tightly the VRS technology with asynchronous Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) method to overcome the limitation of VRS in high-rate structural health monitoring (SHM) applications. When this approach is used, no local reference station is required so that the efforts and cost of setting up reference stations can be avoided. Experiments with datasets from a controlled shaking platform and a long-span bridge in Hong Kong with both temperature and typhoon excitations have indicated that the proposed approach worked effectively. The results demonstrated that when a baseline exceeded about 3 km, the vertical errors of RTK GNSS positioning could be up to about 15.9 mm (standard deviations), insufficient for most SHM applications. In this case, the proposed method enhanced the accuracy by about 60% to 6.0 mm when using VRS data openly available in Hong Kong. The accuracy achieved was equivalent to that of RTK positioning using a 1.2 km baseline. The shaking platform trial demonstrated that the monitoring station could be up-sampled to 100 Hz without a noticeable loss in accuracy. The proposed method could capture precisely the peak frequencies and amplitudes of vibrations, with errors as low as 0.001 Hz and 0.1 mm. This method broadens the applicability of GNSS positioning in SHM applications.
Chimpanzees employ context-specific behavioral strategies within fission–fusion societies
Authors: Funkhouser Jake A. , Musgrave Stephanie , Morgan David , Kialiema Severin Ndassoba , Ngoteni Delon , Brogan Sean , McElmurray Philip , Sanz Crickette
Published: October 2024

Fission–fusion social systems allow individuals to make flexible choices about where, with whom, and in what contexts to spend their time in response to competing social and ecological pressures. The ability for fission–fusion societies to support individual behavioral strategies that vary across contexts has been suggested, but the potential function of such context-specific social choices remains largely understudied. We adopted the concept of social niche construction to explore possible differences in social complexity at the individual and group level across feeding contexts. Specifically, we examined patterns of co-attendance across two common ecological contexts in wild Central African chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes troglodytes) in the Goualougo Triangle, Republic of Congo. From data compiled over 6 years, we used multidimensional social network analysis to study the patterns of co-attendance generated from 436 group scans at Ficus and 4527 visits to termite mounds. These two contexts were chosen, because they are both fixed spatial features across the landscape that serve as well-defined points to compare association patterns. We identified context-specific social niche construction in a fission–fusion chimpanzee society that produce different patterns of relationships and social complexity that are consistent in their expression over many years, and offer functional benefits. While enhancing our understanding of chimpanzee behavioral strategies, culture, and conservation, our investigation also indicates that the social niche construction framework aids in elucidating the evolutionary advantages of fission–fusion sociality by accounting for intra- and interindividual variability, cognition, and choice in newfound ways.
Management and organizational research in Asia Pacific: insights from a 40th anniversary review of the Asia Pacific Journal of Management
Authors: Wang Siqi , Cheah Jun-Hwa , Lim Weng Marc , Chang Jennifer Yee-Shan
Published: October 2024

Grasping the evolving landscape of management and organizations in Asia Pacific is vital for addressing the challenges and opportunities they both face in the region and beyond. To do so, we conduct a systematic literature review using a bibliometric analysis of the Asia Pacific Journal of Management (APJM), the leading journal for management and organizational research in Asia Pacific that is celebrating its 40th anniversary. A total of 915 articles published by APJM from 2001 to 2024 were retrieved from the Scopus database and subsequently subjected to a performance analysis of productivity (publications) and impact (citations) alongside a science mapping of knowledge (themes). This study reveals a steady increase in APJM publications and citations, underscoring the journal’s growing influence. The globalization of collaboration networks is a noteworthy trend, highlighting the interconnectedness of research efforts across borders. Major themes include cultural understanding and interpersonal networks, as well as the adaptability of organizations in emerging economies. Areas such as innovation, performance, and corporate governance highlight the importance of growth, competitiveness, and responsible management structures, while research on major Asian markets like China, India, and Thailand underscores the relevance of globalization and multinational strategies. The findings offer future directions in key areas such as emerging economies and institutional environments, relationship networks and social resilience, innovation and digital transformation, managing internationalization, and methodological innovation.
A “poly-matter network” conception of biological inheritance
Authors: Müller Günter A. , Müller Timo D.
Published: October 2024

Here we intend to shift the “DNA- and information-centric” conception of biological inheritance, with the accompanying exclusion of any non-DNA matter, to a “poly-matter network” framework which, in addition to DNA, considers the action of other cellular membranous constituents. These cellular structures, in particular organelles and plasma membranes, express “landscapes” of specific topologies at their surfaces, which may become altered in response to certain environmental factors. These so-called “membranous environmental landscapes” (MELs), which replicate by self-organization / autopoiesis rather than self-assembly, are transferred from donor to acceptor cells by various – vesicular and non-vesicular – mechanisms and exert novel features in the acceptor cells. The “DNA-centric” conception may be certainly explanatorily sufficient for the transfer of heritable phenotype variation to acceptor cells following the copying of DNA in donor cells and thereby for the phenomenon of biological inheritance of traits. However, it is not causally sufficient. With the observation of phenotype variation, as initially manifested during bacterial transformation, the impact of environmental factors, such as nutrition and stress, in the differential regulation of gene expression has been widely accepted and resulted in intense efforts to resolve the underlying epigenetic mechanisms. However, these are explained under a conceptual frame where the DNA (and associated proteins) are the only matter of inheritance. In contrast, it is our argumentation that inheritance can only be adequately understood as the transfer of DNA in concert with non-DNA matter in a “poly-matter network” conception. The adequate inclusion of the transfer of non-DNA matter is still a desideratum of future genetic research, which may pave the way for the experimental elucidation not only of how DNA and membrane matter act in concert to enable the inheritance of innate traits, but also whether they interact for that of acquired biological traits. Moreover, the “poly-matter network” conception may open new perspectives for an understanding of the pathogenesis of “common complex” diseases.
Enhancing Machine Learning-Based Autoscaling for Cloud Resource Orchestration
Authors: Pintye István , Kovács József , Lovas Róbert
Published: October 2024

Performance and cost-effectiveness are sustained by efficient management of resources in cloud computing. Current autoscaling approaches, when trying to balance between the consumption of resources and QoS requirements, usually fall short and end up being inefficient and leading to service disruptions. The existing literature has primarily focuses on static metrics and/or proactive scaling approaches which do not align with dynamically changing tasks, jobs or service calls. The key concept of our approach is the use of statistical analysis to select the most relevant metrics for the specific application being scaled. We demonstrated that different applications require different metrics to accurately estimate the necessary resources, highlighting that what is critical for an application may not be for the other. The proper metrics selection for control mechanism which regulates the requried recources of application are described in this study. Introduced selection mechanism enables us to improve previously designed autoscaler by allowing them to react more quickly to sudden load changes, use fewer resources, and maintain more stable service QoS due to the more accurate machine learning models. We compared our method with previous approaches through a carefully designed series of experiments, and the results showed that this approach brings significant improvements, such as reducing QoS violations by up to 80% and reducing VM usage by 3% to 50%. Testing and measurements were conducted on the Hungarian Research Network (HUN-REN) Cloud, which supports the operation of over 300 scientific projects.
GLP-1 receptor agonists as promising anti-inflammatory agents in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Bonfioli Giovanni Battista , Rodella Luca , Metra Marco , Vizzardi Enrico
Published: October 2024

Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF) represents a significant challenge in modern cardiovascular medicine, characterized by diastolic dysfunction and a chronic pro-inflammatory milieu. The high prevalence of comorbidities such as diabetes, visceral obesity, and aging, which contribute to systemic inflammation, plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis and progression of HFpEF. Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists (GLP-1 RAs), a class of glucose-lowering drugs, have demonstrated a wide range of pleiotropic effects that extend beyond glycaemic control. These effects include the reduction of inflammation and oxidative stress, vasodilation, decreased arterial stiffness, and a reduction in myocardial fibrosis—key factors in the pathophysiology of HFpEF. Recent evidence from the STEP-HFpEF and STEP-HFpEF-DM trials provides the first robust data supporting the efficacy of GLP-1 RAs, specifically semaglutide, in improving the quality of life in obese patients with HFpEF. These trials also demonstrated a significant reduction in C-Reactive Protein (CRP) levels, reinforcing the hypothesis that suppressing the pro-inflammatory state may yield substantial clinical benefits in this patient population. These findings suggest that GLP-1 RAs could play a crucial role in the management of HFpEF, particularly in patients with obesity, by targeting the underlying inflammatory processes and contributing to better overall cardiovascular outcomes.
Exosomes Derived from Bone Marrow Dendritic Cells Exhibit Protective and Therapeutic Potential Against Chemically Induced Chronic Pancreatitis in Rats
Authors: Bashir Shaimaa M. , Rizk Sherine M. , Nooh Mohammed M. , Helmy Hebatullah S.
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background

Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is a specific clinical disorder that develops from pancreatic fibrosis and immune cell dysregulation. It has been proposed that bone marrow dendritic cells (BMDCs) exosomes have significant effects on immune regulation. Thus, the current study acquainted the prophylactic and therapeutic effects of exosomes derived from BMDCs on a rat model of CP.

Materials and methods

BMDCs were prepared and identified, and then the exosomes were isolated by differential ultracentrifugation. Prophylactic and therapeutic effects of exosomes were investigated on L-arginine induced CP model.

Results

Administration of two tail vein injections of exosomes (200 μg/kg/dose suspended in 0.2 ml PBS) markedly improved the pancreatic function and histology compared to CP group. Moreover, exosomes prominently mitigated the increase in amylase, lipase, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and elevated antioxidant enzymes; catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx).

Conclusion

BMDCs exosomes can be considered as a promising candidate, with a high efficacy and stability compared with its parent cell, for management of CP and similar inflammatory diseases.
Blockchain: Exploring its Impact on the Business Models of Australian Accounting Firms
Authors: Dyball Maria Cadiz , Seethamraju Ravi
Published: October 2024

This paper reports on a study that investigated how the business models of Australian accounting firms are impacted by audit clients using blockchain technology. Semi-structured interviews with a range of stakeholders including audit partners from big-4 accounting firms reveal that firms are gradually adapting their business models by offering value propositions that involve efficiency, complementarities and novelty, despite a formative blockchain ecosystem in Australia. This ecosystem is characterized by clients’ reluctance to use blockchain platforms for financial systems and a lack of clear direction on applicable accounting standards and consensus on blockchain standards and governance.