bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photocatalytic Degradation of PCB 153 Using Fe3O4@SiO2@TiO2‐Co Core‐Shell Nanocomposite
Authors: Alshahrani B. , Korna A. H. , Fares S. , Salman Montasir
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the photocatalytic degradation of PCB 153 using Fe3O4@SiO2@TiO2‐Co core‐shell nanocomposites under LED irradiation. The unique core‐shell structure, incorporating a magnetic Fe3O4 core, a protective SiO2 layer, and a photoactive TiO2 shell doped with Co, enhances light absorption, charge separation, and stability. The effects of various parameters, including catalyst dosage, initial pollutant concentration, solution pH, H2O2 concentration, reaction time, and cosolvent type, were investigated to optimize the degradation process. The results demonstrated the high efficiency of the Fe3O4@SiO2@TiO2‐Co nanocomposite in degrading PCB 153, with a maximum degradation efficiency of 95.2% under optimal conditions. The magnetic properties of the Fe3O4 core enable easy separation and recovery of the catalyst, making it a sustainable and cost‐effective solution. This study provides valuable insights into the design and application of advanced photocatalysts for environmental remediation.
Beyond Cumulative Scores: Distinct Patterns of Adverse Childhood Experiences and Their Differential Impact on Emotion, Borderline Personality Traits, and Executive Function
Authors: Xu Hang , Cai Jinping , Li Man , Yuan Yidan , Qin Hao , Liu Jing , Wang Weiwen
Published: December 2024

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with long‐lasting and multifaceted consequences for mental health. Despite established dose‐response effects of ACEs on mental health, the specificity of ACE pattern effects remains understudied, especially on executive function. This study aims to explore how specific patterns of ACEs, beyond just cumulative scores, differentially impact emotional symptoms, personality and cognitive function. This study recruited 2515 college students from several universities in northern China. Demographic characteristics, depression, anxiety, borderline personality traits, and executive function (Wisconsin Card Sort Test) were assessed. Latent class analysis was used to identify patterns of ACEs. Data were analysed using χ2‐test, ANCOVA, and multivariate linear regression methods. Pattern‐oriented and cumulative‐oriented approaches were compared to predict the effects of ACEs. Three distinct patterns of ACEs were identified: low adversity (LA), multiple adversity (MA), and family environment adversity (FA). FA with the highest number of ACEs was uniquely linked to executive function impairments, while both MA and cumulative ACEs significantly predicted higher anxiety, depression, and borderline personality traits. The pattern‐oriented method was more sensitive to capturing the diverse outcomes of executive function impairment than cumulative scores. Our findings highlight the importance of moving beyond cumulative scores and considering specific ACEs patterns to understand their differential impact on mental health. Identifying FA as a distinct pattern with specific consequences for executive function offers valuable insights into developing targeted prevention strategies tailored to specific risk profiles.
Recent progress of heterocycle ring‐opening (co)polymerization for the synthesis of sequence‐controlled block polyesters and polycarbonates
Authors: Zhao Hongyu , Hu Chenyang , Pang Xuan , Chen Xuesi
Published: December 2024

Aliphatic polyesters and polycarbonates are among the promising sustainable polymers, which exhibit unique degradability and chain‐chain interactions owing to their heterofunctionality. However, monocomponent aliphatic polyesters and polycarbonates usually suffer from inferior properties and functionalities. By contrast, precisely modulated block copolymers composed of polyesters and polycarbonates give rise to sustainable materials with tailored performance. An efficient approach to synthesize the block copolymers is the ring‐opening (co)polymerization of the heterocycle monomers. Herein, this review presents the heterocycle monomer ring‐opening (co)polymerization for the formation of sequence‐controlled block polyesters and polycarbonates. Available synthetic strategies, different monomers, monomer combinations and the catalyst systems for the formation of different block polyesters and polycarbonates are summarized.
Security Risks in the Encryption of Database Connection Strings
Authors: Rannells Ross , Hill James H.
Published: December 2024

Background

There exists an important and open problem with the encrypting of database connection strings in that related connection strings start with well known identical initial sub‐strings. When these initial sub‐strings are longer than the encrypting algorithm's block size, the resulting encrypted text for related database connection strings will have identical initial sub‐strings which could increase the chance of breaking the encryption key used to encrypt the connection strings.

Aims

The objective of our work was to find a simple, easy to implement, well known algorithm that would eliminate the identical initial sub‐strings in the encrypted text of related database connection strings.

Methods

Our methodology was to apply an obfuscation function to the database connection strings before encrypting them with the 3DES and AES encryption algorithms. The obfuscation functions we chose for our tests were the Roman Keyword cipher or the Greek Scytale cipher.

Discussion

The results of applying the two obfuscation functions to the related database connection strings before encrypting them with the symmetric encryption algorithms. This process effectively eliminated the commonality in the encrypted text of the database connection strings.

Conclusion

While both the Keyword and Scytale obfuscation functions were able to eliminate the commonality in the encrypted text. We found that the Scytale function was superior to the Keyword function due to some minor limitations of the Keyword functions and the fact that the Scytale function geometrically increased the number of possible known strings within the plain text connection string before encryption.
Trajectory priming through obstacle avoidance in motor imagery – does motor imagery comprise the spatial characteristics of movement?
Authors: Roberts James W. , Wakefield Caroline J. , Owen Robin
Published: December 2024

Motor imagery and execution often indicate a similar trend in the temporal characteristics of movements. This finding supports the notion of functional equivalence, whereby imagery and execution use a common neural representation. However, there is comparatively limited evidence related to the spatial characteristics of movements; no doubt owing to the absence of an actual spatial trajectory during imagery. Therefore, we adapted the trajectory priming paradigm involving an obstacle, where the trajectory adopted in a trial (n) is directly contaminated by a previous trial (n-1). If imagery accurately represents the spatial characteristics, then we would predict a similar priming effect as execution. Participants completed a series of trial blocks under different imagery/execution protocols, where the test trial (n) comprised execution alone, while the previous trial (n-1) involved imagery or execution. Each block comprised pairs of trials with alternate or consistent presentations of a virtual obstacle (O) or no obstacle (N): N-N, N-O, O-N, O-O. For trial n-1 (imagery/execution), there was a more prolonged reaction and movement time for imagery compared execution. Most importantly for trial n (execution), there was an increase in early angular and peak deviation following an obstacle compared to no obstacle in trial n-1, but only when it was execution and not imagery. These findings suggest imagery holds a limited representation of the spatial characteristics, while functional equivalence may be limited to the temporal characteristics.
The Use of the Hemostatic Net in Asian Population: Hyperpigmentation and the Duration Required for Hemostatic Net Marking to Disappear
Authors: Wongkietkachorn Apinut , Wongkietkachorn Nuttapone
Published: December 2024

Introduction

There are major concerns about using the hemostatic net in Asian populations due to potential hyperpigmentation and the extended duration required for the markings to disappear. This study is the first to describe its use in this demographic and aims to determine the occurrence of hyperpigmentation from the hemostatic net and the time required for the markings to fade.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted in patients who had a hemostatic net applied during facial surgery between July 2022 and April 2024 at Qprime Surgical Center in Bangkok, Thailand. The hemostatic net was applied using 5-0 nonabsorbable materials with needle sizes of 16 mm or 19 mm.

Results

A total of 300 patients were included in this study. No persistent hyperpigmentation from the hemostatic net was observed. The disappearance rates of the hemostatic net markings were as follows: 33.3% at 2 weeks, 10.0% at 3 weeks, 46.7% at 4 weeks, 3.3% at 6 weeks, and 6.7% at 8 weeks. Overall, 90.0% of the hemostatic net markings subsided within 1 month.

Conclusion

The use of the hemostatic net in the Asian population studied resulted in remarkable prevention of hematomas after facelifts and no persistent hyperpigmentation, with the majority of the markings disappearing within one month, thereby reinforcing the efficacy and safety of this technique.

Level of Evidence IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors  www.springer.com/00266.
Fair allocation rules for the commons—informing water policy design through survey methods
Authors: Kervinio Yann , Ouvrard Benjamin , Reynaud Arnaud
Published: December 2024

We set up an original framework aiming to produce robust and transferable knowledge on fairness attitudes towards water sharing arrangements. Using a simple axiomatic approach, we demonstrate how different conceptions of common and private property over a natural resource translate into contrasting allocation rules. We then apply this framework to investigate the potential justification of collective arrangements for irrigation water. Using a survey on farmers in South-Western France, we investigate stakeholders’ attitudes toward different allocations and their underlying justification. Our results highlight the need to study existing attitudes both at the different level of generality and beyond the opposition between solidarity and responsibility principles. We also observe a strong attachment to historical rights and a rejection of water exchanges, potentially signaling a strong attachment to the status quo or procedural concerns, such as the right to self-organize. Additionally, our results suggest the potential for individual attitudes to change through reasoning or framing. Finally, we discuss how questionnaire studies could provide valuable insights about shared values in a community, and support the design of robust common-pool resource institutions.
Die Wirkung gemeindenaher, museumsbasierter Aktivitäten für Menschen mit Demenz und ihre primären Betreuungspersonen – ein Umbrella Review
Authors: Kriegseisen-Peruzzi Melanie , Dür Mona , Tatzer Verena C. , Paal Piret
Published: December 2024

Hintergrund

In den vergangenen Jahren wurde die Wirkung museumsbasierter Angebote für Menschen mit Demenz und ihre primären Betreuungspersonen als gemeindenahe Unterstützungsmöglichkeiten zunehmend beforscht.

Fragestellung und Ziel

Der Umbrella Review führt aktuelle Ergebnisse zur Wirkung museumsbezogener Angebote auf Menschen mit Demenz und ihre primären Betreuungspersonen zusammen und Ieitet Implikationen für die Praxis und die Versorgungsforschung ab.

Methode und Material

Nach den Leitlinien des Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) wurde ein Umbrella Review auf Basis systematischer Reviews und Metaanalysen erstellt. Die Ergebnisse der systematischen Literaturrecherche in CINAHL Complete, PubMed, Medline Complete, SocINDEX, Psych & Behav Sci sowie die Cochrane Database for Systematic Reviews (April/Mai 2023; Follow-up: Oktober 2023) wurden durch 3 Reviewerinnen kritisch bewertet.

Ergebnisse

Es wurden 5 systematische Reviews und eine Metaanalyse identifiziert. Aufgrund der Heterogenität der primären Studien gibt es derzeit keine konsistenten, statistisch robusten Nachweise zur Wirksamkeit museumsbasierter Angebote. Statistische Tendenzen und qualitative Studien deuten auf eine positive Wirkung auf die Lebensqualität und Stimmung und diverse andere nichtkognitive Parameter hin.

Diskussion und Fazit

Die Heterogenität der bestehenden Forschungsarbeiten und -designs lässt keine statistisch belastbare Aussage zur Wirkung gemeindenaher, museumsbasierter Angebote zu. Die auf eine positive Wirkung hindeutenden Ergebnisse, die auch in diversen randomisierten kontrollierten Einzelstudien berichtet werden, sprechen für Museen als Ressource für Partizipation und für ihre Berücksichtigung im Rahmen des Social Prescribing. Für die weitere Forschung werden angepasste und erweiterte methodische Überlegungen und Ansätze wie Mixed-Methods-Designs empfohlen.
Infancy predictors of Functional Somatic Symptoms in pre- and late adolescence: a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Münker Lina , Rimvall Martin Køster , Frostholm Lisbeth , Ørnbøl Eva , Wellnitz Kaare Bro , Jeppesen Pia , Rosmalen Judith Gerarda Maria , Rask Charlotte Ulrikka
Published: December 2024

Physiological regulatory problems in infancy (i.e., problems with sleeping, feeding, and tactile reactivity) have been associated with impairing Functional Somatic Symptoms (FSS) at ages 5–7. We aimed to extend this finding by examining not only the association of physiological regulatory problems but also other infancy factors (i.e., emotion dysregulation and contact problems) with FSS in pre- and late adolescence. Standardized behavioral assessments and self-report questionnaire data from assessment waves at 0–1, 11–12, and 16–17 years of the population-based Copenhagen Child Cohort (CCC2000) were linked with Danish register data on maternal postpartum psychiatric illness and family adversity as covariates. Multiple linear regression analyses were performed to examine the association between infancy factors and FSS in pre- and late adolescence. Only infancy physiological regulatory problems significantly predicted preadolescent FSS (b = 0.38, 95% CI [0.14, 0.62]), also when accounting for maternal postpartum psychiatric illness and family adversity. The association was attenuated for late adolescent FSS.

Conclusion: Infancy physiological regulatory problems may represent early signs of a dysregulated stress system and were found to significantly predict FSS in pre- but not late adolescence. Implications for early FSS prevention could include testing interventions promoting infants’ regulation of sleep, feeding, and tactile reactivity.

What is Known:• Functional Somatic Symptoms (FSS) are common in adolescence.• Explanatory models of FSS emphasize a multifactorial etiology involving interactions between early child-related vulnerabilities and contextual factors.• Infancy physiological regulatory problems (i.e., problems in the area of sleeping, feeding, and tactile reactivity) might represent early signs of a dysregulated stress system, and have been shown to predict impairing FSS in preschool childhood.

What is New:• This study investigated the association between infancy factors, namely physiological regulatory problems with feeding, sleeping, and/or tactile reactivity, emotion dysregulation, and contact problems, and FSS in pre- and late adolescence.• Only a combination of infancy physiological regulatory problems significantly predicted preadolescent FSS, with the association attenuating for FSS in late adolescence.• Implications for early FSS prevention could include parent-mediated interventions aiming to promote infants’ physiological regulatory skills.
Randomness and early termination: What makes a game exciting?
Authors: Guo Gaoyue , Howison Sam D. , Possamaï Dylan , Reisinger Christoph
Published: December 2024

In this paper we revisit an open problem posed by Aldous on the max-entropy win-probability martingale: given two players of equal strength, such that the win-probability is a martingale diffusion, which of these processes has maximum entropy and hence gives the most excitement for the spectators? Our construction is based on the detailed study of a terminal-boundary value problem for the nonlinear parabolic PDE $$2\partial _t e(t,x)= \log (-\partial _{xx}e(t,x))$$

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derived by Aldous. We prove its wellposedness and regularity of its solution by combining PDE analysis and probabilistic tools, in particular the reformulation as a stochastic control problem with restricted control set, which allows us to deduce strict ellipticity. We establish key qualitative properties of the solution including concavity, monotonicity, convergence to a steady state for long remaining time and the asymptotic behaviour shortly before the terminal time. Moreover, we construct convergent numerical approximations. The analytical and numerical results allow us to characterise the max-entropy win-probability martingale and to highlight the behaviour of this process in the present case where the match may end early, in contrast to recent work by Backhoff-Veraguas and Beiglböck where the match always runs the full length.
Female pelvic cancer survivors’ experiences of pelvic floor muscle training after pelvic radiotherapy
Authors: Lindgren A. , Börjeson S. , Dunberger G.
Published: December 2024

Purpose

To describe experiences of a 3-month pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) period, with or without support from a physiotherapist, among females with urinary and/or fecal incontinence after pelvic radiotherapy.

Method

This qualitative interview study included eleven women (aged 47–83 years) with urinary and/or fecal incontinence after radiotherapy treatment for pelvic cancer (radiotherapy completed 3–60 months ago). The eleven informants were part of a larger randomized controlled intervention study where they practiced PFMT, with or without support from a physiotherapist, for 3 months. The support from a physiotherapist included individual support with biofeedback as well as group training. The women were interviewed individually soon after the completion of the pelvic floor muscle training period, and data were analyzed with qualitative content analysis.

Result

A structured training program, individual support from a physiotherapist, and strategies to establish a daily workout routine were described as valuable when practicing pelvic floor muscle training. Participating in the study gave a sense of meaningfulness and motivation to practice, partly due to the knowledge of a follow-up after the study period. Group and home training were described as both a facilitator and a barrier to PFMT. The women experienced that PFMT had influenced pelvic floor function in terms of increased pelvic floor strength, reduced urinary and fecal incontinence, and an increased ability to hold urine and feces during urgency. PFMT had a relieving effect on pelvic floor pain, although it also contributed to some increase in pain. The perceived improvement in pelvic muscle function led to decreased anxiety, increased safety, feelings of greater freedom in everyday life, a changed attitude toward physical activity, and improved sexual health. All women expressed an intention to continue practicing PFMT and a desire for information and opportunities for PFMT, under the guidance of a physiotherapist, to be implemented in conventional pelvic cancer rehabilitation and made available to all women after pelvic cancer treatment.

Conclusion

The women who live with the experience of pelvic cancer experienced PFMT as a meaningful intervention for managing urinary and/or fecal incontinence after pelvic radiotherapy. They considered that information and support from a physiotherapist are essential in pelvic cancer rehabilitation, such as PFMT, and should be offered to all women after pelvic cancer treatment.
Ultrasound-guided obturator nerve block technique at the distal end of the obturator canal: case series and cadaver evaluation
Authors: Yoshida Takayuki , Nakano Yousuke , Kitada Masaaki , Nakamoto Tatsuo
Published: December 2024

The obturator nerve variably gives off the anterior, posterior, and hip articular branches along its course; however, all branches invariably pass through the obturator canal. Herein, we describe our obturator nerve block technique, which promises to deliver local anesthetic directly into the obturator canal. We performed the obturator nerve block in six patients undergoing transurethral resection of bladder tumor under spinal anesthesia. We also evaluated the spread of dye in a cadaver. With patient placed in the lithotomy position, a linear ultrasound transducer was placed on the anterior part of the genitofemoral sulcus, oriented cephalad, to observe the external orifice of the obturator canal, which is present immediately posterior to the posterior end of the inferior margin of the superior pubic ramus and just medial to the body of the ischium. The needle tip was guided to this location, and 10 ml of 1.5% lidocaine was injected into the obturator canal. The procedure was repeated using 10-ml dye in a cadaver. No obturator jerks were observed during the transurethral resection of bladder tumors in all six cases. Cadaver examination confirmed the dye stained the obturator nerve, with retrograde spread into the pelvic cavity via the obturator canal.
„Sammlung“ als psychotherapeutische Propädeutik und therapeutische Grundhaltung
Authors: Dietrich Stephan
Published: December 2024

Phänomenologisches Sehen und Hören ist kein bloßes Registrieren von Sinnesdaten, sondern ein offenes Gewahrsein und leibhaftiges Vernehmen der sich zeigenden Phänomene in ihrer Bedeutsamkeit. Dieses Vernehmen ermöglicht es im analytisch-therapeutischen Prozess, dass Menschen zu ihren je eigenen Möglichkeiten des In-der-Welt-Seins finden und damit ein selbstbestimmteres und freieres Leben führen können.

Zunächst und zumeist sind wir (Therapeut:innen wie Klient:innen) jedoch in den zahllosen Ablenkungen und Zerstreuungen des Alltags mehr ab- als anwesend und es braucht ein Innehalten und eine gewisse Bemühung, um sich aus diesen Verstrickungen zurückzuholen und zu sich selbst zu kommen. Die Wiener Schule der Daseinsanalyse legt deswegen auf die Sammlung in der therapeutischen Praxis einen besonderen Wert. Sammlung ist primär keine therapeutische Technik oder ein theoretisches Modell, sondern vielmehr eine menschliche Grundhaltung, eine immer wieder vergessene Weise da zu sein, in die wir uns zurückrufen können. Sie ist deswegen auch nicht in einer reinen Wissensvermittlung lehr- und lernbar, sondern muss durch wiederholte Übung erfahren werden. In diesem Sinne kann die Sammlung als Propädeutik für alle Psychotherapieschulen dienen, als eine Einstiegsübung, die sich auf das Sein des Menschen in seiner Ganzheit besinnt.

Gesammelt Dasein: Miteinander in schweigendem Horchen und Miteinandersprechen für das Dasein in seinen unheilvollen Beschränkungen aber eben auch in seinen offenen Möglichkeiten wach zu werden – darin liegt eine heilende Kraft.
A multi-objective clustering approach based on different clustering measures combinations
Authors: Azevedo Beatriz Flamia , Rocha Ana Maria A. C. , Pereira Ana I.
Published: December 2024

Clustering methods aim to categorize the elements of a dataset into groups according to the similarities and dissimilarities of the elements. This paper proposes the Multi-objective Clustering Algorithm (MCA), which combines clustering methods with the Nondominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II. In this way, the proposed algorithm can automatically define the optimal number of clusters and partition the elements based on clustering measures. For this, 6 intra-clustering and 7 inter-clustering measures are explored, combining them 2-to-2, to define the most appropriate pair of measures to be used in a bi-objective approach. Out of the 42 possible combinations, 6 of them were considered the most appropriate, since they showed an explicitly conflicting behavior among the measures. The results of these 6 Pareto fronts were combined into two Pareto fronts, according to the measure of intra-clustering that the combination has in common. The elements of these Pareto fronts were analyzed in terms of dominance, so the nondominanted ones were kept, generating a hybrid Pareto front composed of solutions provided by different combinations of measures. The presented approach was validated on three benchmark datasets and also on a real dataset. The results were satisfactory since the proposed algorithm could estimate the optimal number of clusters and suitable dataset partitions. The obtained results were compared with the classical k-means and DBSCAN algorithms, and also two hybrid approaches, the Clustering Differential Evolution, and the Game-Based k-means algorithms. The MCA results demonstrated that they are competitive, mainly for the advancement of providing a set of optimum solutions for the decision-maker.
An optical flow battery enabled by trap-engineered nanophosphors
Authors: Wu Xiang , Yang Fan , Ou Zihao , Hong Guosong
Published: December 2024

Flow batteries represent a promising technology for storing electrical energy in circulating electrolyte solutions that contain redox-active chemicals. Inspired by the redox flow battery, in this paper we describe the concept and implementation of an optical flow battery, which stores photon energy in circulating nanophosphor colloids. Similar to the redox flow battery, the optical flow battery enables the conversion between photon energy and chemical energy in a rechargeable manner, facilitating distributed energy storage by decoupling energy and power. We characterized basic cell attributes and performance metrics of this prototype optical flow battery in the context of common assessment methods for conventional redox flow batteries. We envision that this optical flow battery may provide a useful tool for solar energy storage, light delivery in live animals, and light-based therapy, diagnosis, and surgery in medicine.

Graphical Abstract
How to improve AML outcomes?
Authors: Tan Taner , Bozdag Sinem Civriz
Published: December 2024

Understanding the intricacies of the pathophysiology and genomic landscape has enhanced the long-term outcomes for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The identification of novel molecular targets has introduced new therapeutic strategies that attempt to surpass the dominance of the "7 + 3 regimen" established in the 1970s. In 2022, the World Health Organization and International Consensus Classification revised their definitions and approaches to AML, reflecting the current and evolving changes at the molecular level. The guidelines are now grounded in a definition of the disease that emphasizes genetic characteristics. Today, we recognize AML as a genetically diverse disease; a retrospective study identified 5234 driver mutations across 76 genes or genomic regions, with two or more drivers observed in 86% of patients (Papaemmanuil et al., N Engl J Med 374:2209–21, 2016).
A Republic If You Can Afford It
Authors: Mohr Zachary , Kropf Martha , McGowan Mary Jo , Pope JoEllen
Published: December 2024

The cost of administering elections is an importantly understudied area in election science. This book reports election costs in 48 out of 50 states. It discusses the challenges and opportunities of collecting local election costs. The book then presents the wide variation in cost across the country with the lowest spending states spending a little over $2 per voter and the highest spending almost $20 per voter. The amounts being spent in the state are also examined over the election time period of 2008 – 2016. Economic events like the Great Recession had predictable effects on lowering spending on elections but the patterns are not the same across the different regions of the country. The relationship between spending and election administration outcomes is also explored and finds that the voters' confidence and perceptions of fraud in elections is associated with the amount spent on election administration.
Heidegger on Poetic Thinking
Authors: Bambach Charles
Published: December 2024

One of the striking features of Heidegger's philosophical engagement concerns his privileging of poetry and poetic thinking. In this understanding of language as fundamentally poetic, Heidegger puts forward a different way to do philosophy. In this Element, the author places Heidegger's poetic thinking in conversation with Sophocles and Hölderlin as a way to situate his critique of global technology and instrumental thinking in the postwar years. This Element also offers a critique of Heidegger's efforts to arrogate poetic thinking to his own aim of a destinal form of German national self-assertion through poetry. Overall, the aim here is to show how crucial poetic thinking is to the way Heidegger understands philosophy as a radical engagement with language.
Convergence of the derivative martingale for the branching random walk in time-inhomogeneous random environment
Authors: Hong Wenming , Liang Shengli
Published: December 2024

Consider a branching random walk on the real line with a random environment in time (BRWRE). A necessary and sufficient condition for the non-triviality of the limit of the derivative martingale is formulated. To this end, we investigate the random walk in a time-inhomogeneous random environment (RWRE), which is related to the BRWRE by the many-to-one formula. The key step is to figure out Tanaka’s decomposition for the RWRE conditioned to stay non-negative (or above a line), which is interesting in itself.
A scoping review on human-centered design approaches and considerations in the design of technologies for loneliness and social isolation in older adults
Authors: Probst Freya , Ratcliffe John , Molteni Erika , Mexia Nikitia , Rees Jessica , Matcham Faith , Antonelli Michela , Tinker Anthea , Shi Yu , Ourselin Sebastien , Liu Wei
Published: December 2024

Loneliness and social isolation are prevalent concerns among older adults and can lead to negative health consequences and a reduced lifespan. New technologies are increasingly being developed to help address loneliness and social isolation in older adults, including monitoring systems, social networks, robots, companions, smart televisions, augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) applications. This systematic review maps human-centered design (HCD) and user-centered design (UCD) approaches, human needs, and contextual factors considered in current technological interventions designed to address the problems of loneliness and social isolation in older adults. We conducted a scoping review and in-depth examination of 98 papers through a qualitative content analysis. We found 12 studies applying either an HCD or UCD approach and observed strengths in continuous user involvement and implementation in field studies but limitations in participant inclusion criteria and methodological reporting. We also observed the consideration of important human needs and contextual factors. However, more research is needed on stakeholder perspectives, the functioning of applications in different housing environments, as well as studies that include diverse socio-economic groups.
Has the two decades of research on the gut microbiome resulted in making healthier choices?
Authors: Azcarate-Peril M. Andrea
Published: December 2024

The gut microbiome is widely recognized for its significant contribution to maintaining human health across all life stages, from infancy to adulthood and beyond. This perspective article focuses on the impacts of well-supported microbiome research on global caesarean delivery rates, breastfeeding practices, and antimicrobial use. The article also explores the impact of dietary choices, particularly those involving ultra-processed foods, on the gut microbiota and their potential contribution to conditions like obesity, metabolic syndrome, and inflammatory diseases. This perspective aims to emphasize the need for updated guidelines and policy interventions to address the increasing global trends of caesarean deliveries, reduced breastfeeding, overuse of antibiotics, and consumption of highly processed foods to counter their adverse effects on gut health.
Challenges and strategies for improving medication adherence among adolescent psychiatric patients: A qualitative study
Authors: Kalaman Clarisse Roswini , Ibrahim Norhayati , Cham Choy Qing , Ho Meng Chuan , Visvalingam Uma , Abdul Rahman Fairuz Nazri , Shahabuddin Farah Ahmad , Halim Mohd Radzi Tarmizi A , Siau Ching Sin
Published: December 2024

Despite significant advancements in the development of psychotropic medications, increasing adherence rates remain a challenge in the treatment and management of psychiatric disorders. The purpose of this study is to qualitatively explore the challenges underlying medication adherence and strategies to improve it among adolescents with psychiatric disorders in Malaysia. This qualitative research design presents results from 17 semi-structured interviews with adolescent psychiatric patients, aged 11 to 19 years old, from public hospitals across Peninsular Malaysia. The data collected from interviews were transcribed and processed through thematic analysis using the NVivo 11 software. A total of three main themes concerning medication adherence were identified: (1) challenges; (2) coping strategies and (3) protective factors. In this study, thirteen subthemes emerge as challenges underlying medication adherence experienced by adolescent psychiatric patients. The coping strategies identified in this study fall under three broad subthemes which are problem-focused strategies, emotion-focused strategies and maladaptive strategies. This study also highlights social support and positive medicinal effects as protective factors for non-adherence issues in adolescent psychiatric patients. In conclusion, this study supports the notion that adherence is a multi-factorial phenomenon. This study can inform future development of interventions and targeted health promotion programmes in enhancing adherence.
Between the Great Walls: Northern Song Imaginations of the Northwest
Authors: Wen Xin
Published: December 2024

After the political fragmentation of the “Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms” period, the Northern Song consolidated much of the lands under these regional states into a larger polity in a process often described as “reunification.” But this “reunification,” judged against the domain of the Tang dynasty, was incomplete. The “Sixteen Prefectures” to the northeast were ceded to the Liao, and this became a vexing issue for Song emperors and officials. But the northeast was not the only region once under Tang rule that did not enter the Song domain. In this article, I discuss the area to the northwest of the Song, much of which was eventually governed by the Tangut Xia state. This area, roughly the modern provinces of Ningxia and Gansu, featured prominently in Northern Song political discussions, national geographical treatises, and national and regional maps. By analyzing the treatment of the northwest in these diverse genres of representation, I demonstrate a spectrum in the perceptions of the northwest. It was sometimes seen as little different from areas under Song rule; in other cases, it was treated as “beyond the sphere of civilization” (huawai). Such ambiguity is visualized in many Song cartographers who placed this area between two segments of the Great Wall. For Song emperors and officials, the northwest sat uncomfortably in their imaginations of the world, not easily dismissed and forgotten, yet irrecoverable.
Vanishing of Nil-terms and negative K-theory for additi
ve categories
Authors: Bartels Arthur , Lueck Wolfgang
Published: December 2024

We extend the notion of regular coherence from rings to additive categories and show that well-known consequences of regular coherence for rings also apply to additive categories. For instance, the negative K-groups and all twisted Nil-groups vanish for an additive category, if it is regular coherent. This will be applied to nested sequences of additive categories, motivated by our ongoing project to determine the algebraic K-theory of the Hecke algebra of a reductive p-adic group.
Is Frege a Neo-Kantian Transcendentalist About the Justification for Logical Axioms?
Authors: Kim Junyeol
Published: December 2024

The neo-Kantian transcendentalist reading of the epistemic status of logical axioms in Frege argues that he is committed to the neo-Kantian idea that we are epistemically justified in accepting logical axioms because accepting them is necessary for achieving epistemically crucial goals. However, I show that Frege hesitates to be fully committed to neo-Kantian transcendentalism because he struggles to accept the idea that such a teleological reason can constitute an epistemic warrant. This interpretation shows some crucial aspects of his philosophy of logic, such as his understanding of the relationship between the simplicity and the sufficiency of logical systems.
Origin and evolution of West Nile virus lineage 1 in Italy
Authors: Silverj Andrea , Mencattelli Giulia , Monaco Federica , Iapaolo Federica , Teodori Liana , Leone Alessandra , Polci Andrea , Curini Valentina , Di Domenico Marco , Secondini Barbara , Di Lollo Valeria , Ancora Massimo , Di Gennaro Annapia , Morelli Daniela , Perrotta Maria Gabriella , Marini Giovanni , Rosà Roberto , Segata Nicola , Rota-Stabelli Omar , Rizzoli Annapaola , Savini Giovanni ,   West Nile Virus Working Group
Published: December 2024

West Nile virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne pathogen that can infect humans, equids, and many bird species, posing a threat to their health. It consists of eight lineages, with Lineage 1 (L1) and Lineage 2 (L2) being the most prevalent and pathogenic. Italy is one of the hardest-hit European nations, with 330 neurological cases and 37 fatalities in humans in the 2021–2022 season, in which the L1 re-emerged after several years of low circulation. We assembled a database comprising all publicly available WNV genomes, along with 31 new Italian strains of WNV L1 sequenced in this study, to trace their evolutionary history using phylodynamics and phylogeography. Our analysis suggests that WNV L1 may have initially entered Italy from Northern Africa around 1985 and indicates a connection between European and Western Mediterranean countries, with two distinct strains circulating within Italy. Furthermore, we identified new genetic mutations that are typical of the Italian strains and that can be tested in future studies to assess their pathogenicity. Our research clarifies the dynamics of WNV L1 in Italy, provides a comprehensive dataset of genome sequences for future reference, and underscores the critical need for continuous and coordinated surveillance efforts between Europe and Africa.
Population growth of the grey-headed albatross population on Marion Island inferred using three analysis methods
Authors: Stevens Kim L. , Altwegg Res , Connan Maëlle , Ryan Peter G.
Published: December 2024

Globally, the grey-headed albatross Thalassarche chrysostoma is listed as Endangered due to decreasing populations at its major breeding colonies. We analysed the population trend at Marion Island using annual counts of incubating pairs and fledglings from 1984 to 2021 and three methods: TRends and Indices for Monitoring data (TRIM), a generalized additive model and a state-space model. In contrast to rapid decreases at most other colonies, all three methods indicated a local population increase at an average annual rate of 1.3%. The latter two models indicated a decreasing trend from 1997 to 2002, presumably related to mortality on longlines set for Patagonian toothfish Dissostichus eleginoides around the island, which peaked from 1996 to 1998. Grey-headed albatrosses exhibit greater variation in annual counts than other seabird species at Marion Island, possibly linked to interannual variation in breeding success because they are biennial breeders. However, breeding success alone was not significant in any of the models, presumably because it cannot capture the complexities of both population processes and environmental variation. Although all three models predicted the overall trends well, integrated population models, which can account for demographic processes, might be more appropriate to model long-term population trends.
Collective properties of Petitella georgiae in tube environments
Authors: Gu Shuang , Quan Quan
Published: December 2024

The movement of biological swarms is widespread in nature, and collective behavior enhances a swarm’s adaptability to its environment. However, most research focuses on free swarm movement, overlooking the impact of environmental constraints such as tubes. This study examines the swimming behavior of Petitella georgiae through a tube. Observations of position, speed, and direction reveal that each fish is influenced by the swarm’s distribution in its field of view. The speed ratio between the middle region and edge region positively correlates with tube angles, and higher speeds are associated with higher densities within specific angle ranges.
miR-449, identified through antiandrogen exposure, mitigates functional biomarkers associated with ovarian cancer risk
Authors: Wang Xia , Woo Ho-Hyung , Wei Michelle , Gibson Steven , Miranda Mitzi , Rush Demaretta , Cragun Janiel , Zheng Wenxin , Yao Guang , Chambers Setsuko K.
Published: December 2024

The involvement of the androgen receptor (AR) pathway in developing epithelial ovarian cancer is increasingly acknowledged. However, the specific mechanisms by which anti-androgen agents, such as flutamide, may prevent ovarian cancer and their efficacy remain unknown. This study was initiated by investigating the impact of flutamide on miRNA expression in women at high risk (HR) for ovarian cancer. Ovarian and tubal tissues, free from ovarian, tubal, peritoneal cancers, and serous tubal intraepithelial carcinoma (STIC), were collected from untreated and flutamide-treated HR women as well as low-risk (LR) women controls. We performed miRNA sequencing on these 3 sample cohorts and observed that flutamide normalized miRNA levels in HR tissues, notably upregulating the miR-449 family to levels seen in LR tissues. In subsequent tests in primary ovarian epithelial cells and ovarian cancer cell lines (SKOV3 and Hey), flutamide also increased miR-449a and miR-449b-5p levels. Introducing mimics of these miRNAs reduced the mRNA and protein levels of AR and colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF1R, also known as c-fms), both of which are known contributors to ovarian cancer progression, with emerging evidence also supporting their roles in ovarian cancer initiation. Ovarian cancer cell migration was inhibited upon introducing miR-449a and miR-449b-5p mimics. Together, our study suggests a novel dual-inhibitory mechanism of flutamide on the AR pathway (AR expression suppression in addition to direct androgen antagonism) and supports its chemopreventive potential in ovarian cancer, especially for HR patients with low miR-449 expression.
Cytokine profiles as predictors of HIV incidence using machine learning survival models and statistical interpretable techniques
Authors: Ogutu Sarah , Mohammed Mohanad , Mwambi Henry
Published: December 2024

HIV remains a critical global health issue, with an estimated 39.9 million people living with the virus worldwide by the end of 2023 (according to WHO). Although the epidemic’s impact varies significantly across regions, Africa remains the most affected. In the past decade, considerable efforts have focused on developing preventive measures, such as vaccines and pre-exposure prophylaxis, to combat sexually transmitted HIV. Recently, cytokine profiles have gained attention as potential predictors of HIV incidence due to their involvement in immune regulation and inflammation, presenting new opportunities to enhance preventative strategies. However, the high-dimensional, time-varying nature of cytokine data collected in clinical research, presents challenges for traditional statistical methods like the Cox proportional hazards (PH) model to effectively analyze survival data related to HIV. Machine learning (ML) survival models offer a robust alternative, especially for addressing the limitations of the PH model’s assumptions. In this study, we applied survival support vector machine (SSVM) and random survival forest (RSF) models using changes or means in cytokine levels as predictors to assess their association with HIV incidence, evaluate variable importance, measure predictive accuracy using the concordance index (C-index) and integrated Brier score (IBS) and interpret the model’s predictions using Shapley additive explanations (SHAP) values. Our results indicated that RSFs models outperformed SSVMs models, with the difference covariate model performing better than the mean covariate model. The highest C-index for SSVM was 0.7180 under the difference covariate model, while for RSF, it reached 0.8801 under the difference covariate model using the log-rank split rule. Key cytokines identified as positive predictors of HIV incidence included TNF-A, BASIC-FGF, IL-5, MCP-3, and EOTAXIN, while 29 cytokines were negative predictors. Baseline factors such as condom use frequency, treatment status, number of partners, and sexual activity also emerged as significant predictors. This study underscored the potential of cytokine profiles for predicting HIV incidence and highlighted the advantages of RSFs models in analyzing high-dimensional, time-varying data over SSVMs. It further through ablation studies emphasized the importance of selecting key features within mean and difference based covariate models to achieve an optimal balance between model complexity and predictive accuracy.
Identification of immune-related hub genes and potential molecular mechanisms involved in COVID-19 via integrated bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Zhu Rui , Zhao Yaping , Yin Hui , Shu Linfeng , Ma Yuhang , Tao Yingli
Published: December 2024

COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, poses significant health challenges worldwide, particularly due to severe immune-related complications. Understanding the molecular mechanisms and identifying key immune-related genes (IRGs) involved in COVID-19 pathogenesis is critical for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies. This study employed computational tools to analyze biological data (bioinformatics) and a method for inferring causal relationships based on genetic variations, known as Mendelian randomization (MR), to explore the roles of IRGs in COVID-19. We identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from datasets available in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), comparing COVID-19 patients with healthy controls. IRGs were sourced from the ImmPort database. We conducted functional enrichment analysis, pathway analysis, and immune infiltration assessments to determine the biological significance of the identified IRGs. A total of 360 common differential IRGs were identified. Among these genes, CD1C, IL1B, and SLP1 have emerged as key IRGs with potential protective effects against COVID-19. Pathway enrichment analysis revealed that CD1C is involved in terpenoid backbone biosynthesis and Th17 cell differentiation, while IL1B is linked to B-cell receptor signaling and the NF-kappa B signaling pathway. Significant correlations were observed between key genes and various immune cells, suggesting that they influence immune cell modulation in COVID-19. This study provides new insights into the immune mechanisms underlying COVID-19, highlighting the crucial role of IRGs in disease progression. These findings suggest that CD1C and IL1B could be potential therapeutic targets. The integrated bioinformatics and MR analysis approach offers a robust framework for further exploring immune responses in COVID-19 patients, as well as for targeted therapy and vaccine development.