bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding what factors affect firefighter use of site-specific risk information
Authors: Waring Sara , Massey Georgia , Kalra Jeotpreen
Published: May 2024

Fire services have a responsibility to record information regarding known hazards for sites posing unique and substantial risks. Such information is important, both for informing service planning, and for supporting the development of situational awareness and decision-making during emergency response. However, public inquiries and service inspections have raised concerns regarding the effectiveness of systems in place for recording, monitoring, and using site-specific risk information (SSRI). In contrast, a lack of research focus has been directed toward the use of SSRI, limiting the evidence base available for understanding the causes of these difficulties and how they may be addressed. The following study seeks to contribute to developing knowledge by examines what factors affect the use of SSRI across organisational levels and why. Interviews were conducted with 23 firefighters from operational and tactical roles in one region of the UK. Thematic analysis highlighted six key themes: (i) Differences in the use of SSRI across organisational levels, (ii) System accessibility, (iii) Content, (iv) Structure, (v) Quality, and (vi) Training. Findings indicate that SSRI use is affected by the relevance, structure, and quality of information, which are influenced by workload, training, guidance, and system accessibility. During emergency response, information requirements, time and cognitive capacity differ across organisational levels, influencing the extent to which barriers affect ability to use SSRI. The implications of findings are discussed in relation to informing future areas of applied cognition research, and fire sector decisions regarding the gathering and storage of SSRI.
Is there a link between health care utilisation and subjective well-being? An exploratory study among older Danes
Authors: Aaskoven Maiken Skovrider , Kjær Trine , Gyrd-Hansen Dorte
Published: May 2024

While extensive research has explored the influence of traditional factors such as socioeconomic position on health care utilisation, the independent role of an individual’s well-being in their health care seeking behaviour remains largely uncharted territory. In this study, we delve into the role of subjective well-being (SWB) in health care utilisation. We use a unique link between survey data from a representative group of Danish citizens aged 50-80 and administrative register data containing information on health care utilisation and sociodemographics. We explore whether SWB is a predictor of health care utilisation (general practice services) over and above health (as measured by health-related quality of life (HRQoL)). We find that the association between SWB and number of services provided in general practice differs across levels of HRQoL. Among those with lower HRQoL, we find a positive association between health care utilisation and SWB. Results hold true even when controlling for previous health care utilisation, suggesting that the mechanism is not driven by reverse causality. Our findings suggest that, in particular for vulnerable individuals in poor health and with poor SWB, the propensity to seek care is inappropriately low, and there is a need for more proactive supply-driven health care.
An empirical analysis of factors determining changes in physical exercise during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Pulgar Susana , Mazas Cristina , Kaviani Sepideh , Butts-Wilmsmeyer Carolyn , Fernandez-del-Valle Maria
Published: May 2024

Aim

The main objective of the study was to report the changes that have taken place in the practice of physical exercise during confinement and to examine the factors that favor or detract from it.

Material and methods

To determine the objective, a survey was carried out in the United States during the pandemic and a sample of 511 participants was obtained. A binary logit model was used to process the data, as well as several independence tests.

Results

The main result of this study is the increase in the practice of physical activity of the individuals surveyed during the pandemic. Some of the elements that most influenced this increase were annual family income, education level, and eating habits, but these results are subject to change depending on the respondent’s body mass index. On the other hand, the results also show changes in physical exercise habits during the pandemic, especially in the time of the week when it is performed, and these changes are highly correlated with the use of electronic devices, hours of sleep, and physical condition of the respondents before the pandemic.

Conclusion

Determining the different factors that affect the practice of physical exercise during pandemic periods seems to be important to determine in which populations it is more important to act or what resources are necessary when implementing physical exercise programs in specific situations such as pandemics.
Viscose fibers decorated with silver nanoparticles via an in-situ green route: UV protection, antioxidant activities, antimicrobial properties, and sensing response
Authors: Rehan Mohamed , Mashaly Hamada M. , Abdel-Aziz Mohamed S. , Abdelhameed Reda M. , Montaser Ahmed S.
Published: May 2024

Multifunctional cellulosic fibers are in high demand for use in a variety of applications. Functional cellulosic fibers obtained through green and sustainable approaches are getting special attention because of the need to limit the environmental impact of hazardous chemicals. Herein, a novel facile, efficient, and eco-friendly approach for multifunctional viscose fibers@Ag NPs (VF-Ag) was designed by a rapid, facile, and one-pot biosynthesis green route using guava leaf extract as a reducing and stabilizing agent. UV–Vis, TEM, SEM, EDX, FTIR, and XPS were used to analyze the formation of silver nanoparticles and their subsequent deposition on the surface of viscose fibers. The silver nanoparticles immobilized on the surface of viscose fibers endowed a yellow/brownish color to the fibers as well as improving the dyeing with reactive dye. The VF-Ag samples have multifunctional properties like protective activities against UV radiation and microorganisms, antioxidant activity, and sensor ability toward Hg2+. The results demonstrated that the UPF values of VF-Ag samples ranged from 280 to 355 compared to 103 for VF. The antioxidant activities of VF-Ag ranged from 79 to 85% compared to 9% for VF. VF-Ag samples exhibited excellent antimicrobial activities against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, very good activities against yeast, and low activities against fungus.

VF and VF-Ag were dyed using reactive dye (CI-reactive blue-19) at two color intensities (2.5, and 5%). The results show that the color of VF turned blue, while the color of VF-Ag turned greenish. The color strength of VF-Ag significantly increased with increasing silver content. Furthermore, VF-Ag showed high sensitivity to naked-eye colorimetric sensing for the detection of Hg2+. In straightforward, this innovative approach provides an easy, quick, and low-cost that will open the door for a range of versatile applications for modified viscose fibers in the fields of medical and analytical applications.
Does Prospective Mental Imagery Predict Symptoms of Negative Affect and Anhedonia in Young People?
Authors: Hutchinson Taryn , Riddleston Laura , Lavi Iris , Pile Victoria , Meehan Alan , Shukla Meenakshi , Lau Jennifer
Published: May 2024

Adolescent depression is associated with unhelpful emotional mental imagery. Here, we investigated whether vividness of negative and positive prospective mental imagery predict negative affect and anhedonia in adolescents. 111 people from Israel completed measures of prospective mental imagery, negative affect, and anhedonia at two time-points approximately three months apart. Using three cross-lagged panel models, we showed once ‘concurrent’ (across-variable, within-time) and ‘stability’ paths (across-time, within-variable) were estimated, there were no significant cross-lag paths between: i) T1 prospective negative mental imagery and T8 negative affect (i.e. increased vividness of negative future imagery at Time 1 did not predict increased negative affect at Time 8); ii) T1 prospective positive mental imagery and T8 negative affect (i.e. reduced vividness of positive future imagery at Time 1 did not predict increased negative affect at Time 8); and iii) T1 prospective positive mental imagery and T8 anhedonia (i.e. reduced vividness of positive future imagery at Time 1 did not predict increased anhedonia at Time 8). Given high levels of attrition, future research should aim to explore these associations in a larger, more diverse population, as such data could inform on whether modifying earlier prospective mental imagery may influence later time/context-specific effects of prospective mental imagery on negative affect and anhedonia.
Monitoring the Dynamic Networks of Stock Returns with an Application to the Swedish Stock Market
Authors: Touli Elena Farahbakhsh , Nguyen Hoang , Bodnar Olha
Published: May 2024

In this paper, two approaches for measuring the distance between stock returns and the network connectedness are presented that are based on the Pearson correlation coefficient dissimilarity and the generalized variance decomposition dissimilarity. Using these two procedures, the center of the network is determined. Also, hierarchical clustering methods are used to divide the dense networks into sparse trees, which provide us with information about how the companies of a financial market are related to each other. We implement the derived theoretical results to study the dynamic connectedness between the companies in the Swedish capital market by considering 28 companies included in the determination of the market index OMX30. The network structure of the market is constructed using different methods to determine the distance between the companies. We use hierarchical clustering methods to find the relation among the companies in each window. Next, we obtain a one-dimensional time series of the distances between the clustering trees that reflect the changes in the relationship between the companies in the market over time. The method from statistical process control, namely the Shewhart control chart, is applied to those time series to detect abnormal changes in the financial market.
Eliminating the ‘Impossible’: Recent Progress on Local Measurement Theory for Quantum Field Theory
Authors: Papageorgiou Maria , Fraser Doreen
Published: May 2024

Arguments by Sorkin (Impossible measurements on quantum fields. In: Directions in general relativity: proceedings of the 1993 International Symposium, Maryland, vol 2, pp 293–305, 1993) and Borsten et al. (Phys Rev D 104(2), 2021. https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevD.104.025012) establish that a natural extension of quantum measurement theory from non-relativistic quantum mechanics to relativistic quantum theory leads to the unacceptable consequence that expectation values in one region depend on which unitary operation is performed in a spacelike separated region. Sorkin [1] labels such scenarios ‘impossible measurements’. We explicitly present these arguments as a no-go result with the logical form of a reductio argument and investigate the consequences for measurement in quantum field theory (QFT). Sorkin-type impossible measurement scenarios clearly illustrate the moral that Microcausality is not by itself sufficient to rule out superluminal signalling in relativistic quantum theories that use Lüders’ rule. We review three different approaches to formulating an account of measurement for QFT and analyze their responses to the ‘impossible measurements’ problem. Two of the approaches are: a measurement theory based on detector models proposed in Polo-Gómez et al. (Phys Rev D, 2022. https://doi.org/10.1103/physrevd.105.065003) and a measurement framework for algebraic QFT proposed in Fewster and Verch (Commun Math Phys 378(2):851–889, 2020). Of particular interest for foundations of QFT is that they share common features that may hold general morals about how to represent measurement in QFT. These morals are about the role that dynamics plays in eliminating ‘impossible measurements’, the abandonment of the operational interpretation of local algebras $${\mathcal {A}}(O)$$

A
(
O
)

as representing possible operations carried out in region O, and the interpretation of state update rules. Finally, we examine the form that the ‘impossible measurements’ problem takes in histories-based approaches and we discuss the remaining challenges.
Aging in Indigenous Communities: Perspective from Two Ancestral Communities in the Colombian Andean–Amazon Region
Authors: García Hernán D. , García Wilson A. , Curcio Carmen L.
Published: May 2024

The phenomenon of world aging is not foreign to indigenous communities. In the last few years, research about these communities around the world has increased, but aging in indigenous towns still has not been studied widely. The purpose of this research is to interpret the meaning of old age in two indigenous communities from the Colombian Andean–Amazon region (the Inga and Kamëntsa) to reinforce the relevance of the local sociocultural context within the configuration of the meaning of old age and to emphasize the importance of considering particular regional characteristics for the design of policies and interventions aiming to recognize and integrate indigenous populations. This is a qualitative study with an interactionism–symbolism approach. In total, six indigenous people older than 60 years from two ancestral communities from the Colombian Andean–Amazon region participated in the in-depth interviews. Data analysis was carried out in three moments: discovery, coding, and relativization of the information. The results show that old age means wisdom, “I am wise,” which is supported in the cosmology and the trajectory of life, reinforces the identity and autonomy, and allows them to be agents in the dynamics of their communities from the “I do,” in other words, their roles as builders of the family–society and as guards of ancestral knowledge. The loss of this knowledge and the elements that it is composed of uproot them and put them at risk of disappearing as individuals and as a collective. In conclusion, the meaning of old age in these communities is not centered on a determinate age; you are not old, you are wise, and as such, they play a central role in their communities. Moreover, wisdom is built in parallel with their cosmology and assigns them the task of safekeeping ancestral knowledge. In order to do this, they use oral tradition as a tool, words that are born in their territories, travel in a nonlinear timeline, and get strengthened by the community while also protecting it and building it. Knowing what aging means for Indigenous communities can facilitate to the development of policies and initiatives and to provide culturally appropriate and effective programs.
They must live somewhere! The geographical dimension of residualized social rented housing in urban Norway
Authors: Brattbakk Ingar , Sørvoll Jardar
Published: May 2024

The residualization of public rented housing is a prevalent phenomenon throughout Europe, and strongly present in the small and strongly means-tested social housing sector in Norway. In this article, we discuss the contested geographical dimension of residualization. Scientific studies of the geographical and locational aspects of social housing are scare in Norway and modest internationally. Based on qualitative interviews with representatives of social housing administrators in the fifteen largest urban municipalities in Norway, this paper contributes to the literature by exploring how these social housing bureaucrats perceive, reflect on, and respond to, questions related to the spatial localization of residual social housing. Does it matter where social housing is located? What are the consequences of the geography of social housing for tenants, their neighbours, and the wider socio-spatial development of cities? These are questions pondered in the interviews. In our qualitative analysis, we identify three broad themes. First, the theme of the internal social milieu – inclusive communities versus neighbour complaints and conflicts in the public housing projects. Second, the theme of neighbourhood effects; how concentrated poverty is influencing the local community in general and the upbringing of children in particular. Third, the theme of response from external neighbours and communities, in the form of either predominantly exclusive strategies (NIMBYism – Not in My Backyard), but also less prevalent inclusive strategies like (PHIMBYism – Public Housing In My Backyard).
Application of Dual-target Computed Tomography for Material Decomposition of Low-Z Materials
Authors: Mikuláček Pavel , Zemek Marek , Štarha Pavel , Zikmund Tomáš , Kaiser Jozef
Published: May 2024

The extension of conventional computed tomography known as spectral computed tomography involves utilizing the variations in X-ray attenuation, driven by spectral and material dependencies. This technique enables the virtual decomposition of scanned objects, revealing their elemental constituents. The resultant images provide quantitative information, such as material concentration within the scanned volume. Enhancements in results are achievable through methods that capitalize on the strong correlation among decomposed images, effectively minimizing noise and artifacts. The Rigaku nano3DX submicron tomograph uses a dual-target source, which allows the generation of two distinct X-ray spectra through different target materials. This configuration holds promise for high-resolution applications in spectral tomography, particularly for low-Z materials, where it offers high contrast in the acquired images. The potential of this setup in the context of spectral computed tomography is explored in this contribution, delving into its applications for materials characterized by low atomic numbers.
A study of the association between single nucleotide polymorphisms of the endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidase 2 (ERAP2) gene and the risk of ankylosing spondylitis in Egyptians
Authors: Mesahel Randa Mohamed Ibrahim , Fotoh Dina Salem , Hadhoud Mahmoud Mohammed , Ali Assar Mohamed Farag
Published: May 2024

Background

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is often regarded as the prototypical manifestation of spondylo-arthropathies that prevalently involves the axial skeleton with the potential attribution of ERAP2 polymorphisms to AS predisposition. The purpose of this study was to determine the genetic association between ERAP2 gene rs2910686, and rs2248374 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and the risk of ankylosing spondylitis in the Egyptian population.

Methods and results

A cross-sectional work involved 200 individuals: 100 AS individuals diagnosed based on modified New York criteria in 1984 with 100 healthy controls matched in age and gender. The study included a comprehensive evaluation of historical data, clinical examinations, and evaluation of the activity of the disease using the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI). A comprehensive laboratory and radiological evaluation were conducted, accompanied by an assessment and genotyping of the ERAP2 gene variants rs2248374 and rs2910686. This genotyping was performed utilizing a real-time allelic discrimination methodology.Highly statistically substantial variations existed among the AS patients and the healthy control group regarding rs2910686 and rs2248374 alleles. There was a statistically significant difference between rs2910686 and rs2248374 regarding BASDAI, BASFI, mSASSS, ASQoL, V.A.S, E.S.R, and BASMI in the active AS group.

Conclusions

ERAP2 gene SNPs have been identified as valuable diagnostic biomarkers for AS patients in the Egyptian population being a sensitive and non-invasive approach for AS diagnosis especially rs2910686. Highly statistically significant variations existed among the AS patients and the healthy control group regarding rs2910686 alleles and genotypes.Further research is recommended to explore the potential therapeutic implications of these SNPs.
Downregulation of miR-29a as a possible diagnostic biomarker for schizophrenia
Authors: Khosroshahi Parya Alizadeh , Ashayeri Hamidreza , Ghanbari Mohammad , Malek Ayyoub , Farhang Sara , Haghi Mehdi
Published: May 2024

Background

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are epigenetic factors regulating many genes involved in brain development. Dysregulation of miRNA could result in dysregulation of genes which may contribute to diseases affecting the brain and behavior (e.g., schizophrenia). miR-29 family is a miRNA family contributing to brain maturation. miR-29 knockout in animal studies is reported to correlate with psychiatric disorders very similar to those seen in schizophrenia. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the miR-29a level in patients with schizophrenia and its potential value in the diagnosis of schizophrenia.

Materials and methods

The serum sample of 42 patients with schizophrenia and 40 healthy subjects were obtained from the Azeri Recent onset/Acute phase psychosis Survey (ARAS) Cohort study. After preparations, the expression level of miR-29a was investigated by real-time PCR. The SPSS and GraphPad prism software were used to analyze the relation between miR-29a level and clinical parameters and its potential as a biomarker for the diagnosis of schizophrenia.

Results

Our study showed a significantly lower miR-29a level in patients compared to healthy controls (p = 0.0012). Furthermore, miR-29a level was significantly lower in some types of schizophrenia (p = 0.024). miR-29a level was not related to sex, age, or heredity (p > 0.05). miR-29a also showed 80% specificity and 71.43% sensitivity in the diagnosis of schizophrenia.

Conclusion

Downregulation of miR-29a in schizophrenia is significantly related to the development of this illness. It might have the potential as a biomarker for schizophrenia.
Electrically conductive gold films formed by sintering of gold nanoparticles at room temperature initiated by ozone
Authors: Summers Paige K. , Wuhrer Richard , McDonagh Andrew M.
Published: May 2024

Understanding and controlling the sintering behaviour of gold nanoparticles is important in the field of ligand-protected nanoparticles for their use as precursors for thin film fabrication. Lowering the temperature of the sintering event of gold nanoparticles by facilitating desorption of the ligand through oxidation can provide compatibility of sintered gold nanoparticle thin films onto heat-sensitive substrates. Here we examine the processes by which 1-butanethiol-protected gold nanoparticles sinter under an ozone-rich environment. Upon heating, an ozone-rich environment significantly reduces the temperature of the sintering event when compared to sintering under ambient conditions. At room temperature, exposure to an ozone-rich environment induces sintering over a period of 2.5 h. Upon exposure to ozone, the surface-bound butanethiol ligands are oxidised to 1-butanesulfonic acid which facilitates sintering.
Organic matter decomposition in mountain peatlands: effects of substrate quality and peatland degradation
Authors: Jayasekara Charuni , Leigh Catherine , Shimeta Jeff , Silvester Ewen , Grover Samantha
Published: May 2024

Background and Aims

Peatlands occupy only 3% of Earth’s terrestrial lands but store about one-third of global soil carbon. However, these large carbon stocks are currently under threat due to peatland degradation, where altered hydrological balance could enhance peat oxidation; thus releasing large amounts of CO2 into the atmosphere. We investigated the interactive effects of substrate quality, peat depth and peatland degradation on the decomposition rate of organic matter in peatlands by way of a field incubation experiment.

Methods

We incubated high-quality fresh peat and a lower-quality degraded peat substrate at three different depths (5, 15, and 30 cm) in two (intact and degraded) mountain peatlands for 18 months. Our results indicated that there is a significant interactive effect of substrate quality, peat depth, and peatland type on the peat decomposition rate.

Results

The fresh peat showed significantly higher decomposition rates than the degraded peat substrate, likely due to the high percentage of bioavailable carbon in the fresh moss substrate. In the degraded peatland, fresh peat at 30 cm showed no mass loss during the incubation period, likely due to the high-water table creating anaerobic conditions. The fresh peat incubated in the intact peatland showed a higher decomposition rate than the same substrate incubated in the degraded peatland due to the comparatively lower water table in the intact peatland.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that the quality of the substrate being decomposed and the depth of the water table act as the main factors affecting the decomposition rate in mountain peatlands.
Telephone follow-up as a substitute for standard out-clinic follow-up in CPAP therapy for obstructive sleep apnea patients: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wolsing Sofie Krogh , Frølund Jannie Christina , Dalgård Christine , Hilberg Ole , Gantzhorn Eline
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study assessed the feasibility of telephone follow-up consultations (TC) using an online data sharing and editing function (Airview™), as alternative to standard out-clinic follow-up consultations (SC) on adherence to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients. Furthermore, we investigated compliance to follow-up consultations and examined potential influencing factors, including baseline AHI (apnea–hypopnea-index), age, and distance from home to the hospital on consultation compliance.

Methods

Two hundred OSA patients, with AHI $$\ge$$
≥
5 were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive TC or SC with follow-up after one month and 12 month of CPAP initiation. Adherence goal was defined as achieving $$\ge$$
≥
4 h of CPAP use daily in 70% of the days in a 365-days period.

Results

The proportion of participants achieving CPAP adherence was non-significantly lower in the TC group compared to the SC group (TC: 30% versus SC: 36%, adjusted OR 0.84, p = 0.59). Of participants who completed the study, the TC group had a significant average of 107 min less use of CPAP compared to the SC group (p = 0.048). However, a higher proportion of participants was compliant to consultations in the TC group. The only influencing factor found was increasing baseline AHI, which might be a predictor for compliance to consultations and adherence to CPAP therapy.

Conclusion

TC might serve as substitute for SC in some part of the OSA population. If TC becomes a part of CPAP therapy management, it is important to consider patient characteristics and treatment-related issues to prevent decline in adherence.
Cross-Cultural Insights from Two Global Mental Health Studies: Self-Enhancement and Ingroup Biases
Authors: Kotera Yasuhiro , Ronaldson Amy , Hayes Daniel , Hunter-Brown Holly , McPhilbin Merly , Dunnett Danielle , Jebara Tesnime , Takhi Simran , Masuda Takahiko , Camacho Elizabeth , Bakolis Ioannis , Repper Julie , Meddings Sara , Stergiopoulos Vicky , Brophy Lisa , De Ruysscher Clara , Okoliyski Michail , Kubinová Petra , Eplov Lene , Toernes Charlotte , Narusson Dagmar , Tinland Aurélie , Puschner Bernd , Hiltensperger Ramona , Lucchi Fabio , Miyamoto Yuki , Castelein Stynke , Borg Marit , Klevan Trude Gøril , Meng Roger Tan Boon , Sornchai Chatdanai , Tiengtom Kruawon , Farkas Marianne , Jones Hannah Moreland , Moore Edith , Butler Ann , Mpango Richard , Tse Samson , Kondor Zsuzsa , Ryan Michael , Zuaboni Gianfranco , Elton Dan , Grant-Rowles Jason , McNaughton Rebecca , Harcla Claire , Vanderplasschen Wouter , Arbour Simone , Silverstone Denise , Bejerholm Ulrika , Powell Candice , Ochoa Susana , Garcia-Franco Mar , Tolonen Jonna , Yeo Caroline , Charles Ashleigh , Jepps Jessica , Simpson Adelabu , Kellermann Vanessa , Todowede Olamide , Asher Laura , Murakami Michio , Hopkins Liza , Jahau Ngurzoi , Arakawa Naoko , Scanferla Elisabetta , Henderson Claire , Slade Mike
Published: May 2024

This commentary highlights two cross-cultural issues identified from our global mental health (GMH) research, RECOLLECT (Recovery Colleges Characterisation and Testing) 2: self-enhancement and ingroup biases. Self-enhancement is a tendency to maintain and express unrealistically positive self-views. Ingroup biases are differences in one’s evaluation of others belonging to the same social group. These biases are discussed in the context of GMH research using self-report measures across cultures. GMH, a field evolving since its Lancet series introduction in 2007, aims to advance mental health equity and human rights. Despite a 16.5-fold increase in annual GMH studies from 2007 to 2016, cross-cultural understanding remains underdeveloped. We discuss the impact of individualism versus collectivism on self-enhancement and ingroup biases. GMH research using concepts, outcomes, and methods aligned with individualism may give advantages to people and services oriented to individualism. GMH research needs to address these biases arising from cross-cultural differences to achieve its aim.
Lung adenocarcinomas without driver genes converge to common adaptive strategies through diverse genetic, epigenetic, and niche construction evolutionary pathways
Authors: Gatenby Robert A. , Luddy Kimberly A. , Teer Jamie K. , Berglund Anders , Freischel Audrey R. , Carr Ryan M. , Lam Amanda E. , Pienta Kenneth J. , Amend Sarah R. , Austin Robert H. , Hammarlund Emma U. , Cleveland John L. , Tsai Kenneth Y. , Brown Joel S.
Published: May 2024

Somatic evolution selects cancer cell phenotypes that maximize survival and proliferation in dynamic environments. Although cancer cells are molecularly heterogeneous, we hypothesized convergent adaptive strategies to common host selection forces can be inferred from patterns of epigenetic and genetic evolutionary selection in similar tumors. We systematically investigated gene mutations and expression changes in lung adenocarcinomas with no common driver genes (n = 313). Although 13,461 genes were mutated in at least one sample, only 376 non-synonymous mutations evidenced positive evolutionary selection with conservation of 224 genes, while 1736 and 2430 genes exhibited ≥ two-fold increased and ≥ 50% decreased expression, respectively. Mutations under positive selection are more frequent in genes with significantly altered expression suggesting they often “hardwire” pre-existing epigenetically driven adaptations. Conserved genes averaged 16-fold higher expression in normal lung tissue compared to those with selected mutations demonstrating pathways necessary for both normal cell function and optimal cancer cell fitness. The convergent LUAD phenotype exhibits loss of differentiated functions and cell–cell interactions governing tissue organization. Conservation with increased expression is found in genes associated with cell cycle, DNA repair, p53 pathway, epigenetic modifiers, and glucose metabolism. No canonical driver gene pathways exhibit strong positive selection, but extensive down-regulation of membrane ion channels suggests decreased transmembrane potential may generate persistent proliferative signals. NCD LUADs perform niche construction generating a stiff, immunosuppressive microenvironment through selection of specific collagens and proteases. NCD LUADs evolve to a convergent phenotype through a network of interconnected genetic, epigenetic, and ecological pathways.
Present Trends Discontinued: A Response to Bethamie Horowitz’s 2023 Marshall Sklare Award Address
Authors: Kelner Shaul
Published: May 2024

Bethamie Horowitz was a leader of the social–psychological turn in the social scientific study of American Jewry. The 1990s were ripe for such a turn. Structural stability enabled analysts to assume “present trends continued.” Today, unsettled times are drawing attention back to the macro-level structural forces shaping the contexts in which Jews live.
Acoustic impedance prediction based on extended seismic attributes using multilayer perceptron, random forest, and extra tree regressor algorithms
Authors: Surachman Lutfi Mulyadi , Abdulraheem Abdulazeez , Al-Shuhail Abdullatif , Kaka Sanlinn I.
Published: May 2024

Acoustic impedance is the product of the density of a material and the speed at which an acoustic wave travels through it. Understanding this relationship is essential because low acoustic impedance values are closely associated with high porosity, facilitating the accumulation of more hydrocarbons. In this study, we estimate the acoustic impedance based on nine different inputs of seismic attributes in addition to depth and two-way travel time using three supervised machine learning models, namely extra tree regression (ETR), random forest regression, and a multilayer perceptron regression algorithm using the scikit-learn library. Our results show that the R2 of multilayer perceptron regression is 0.85, which is close to what has been reported in recent studies. However, the ETR method outperformed those reported in the literature in terms of the mean absolute error, mean squared error, and root-mean-squared error. The novelty of this study lies in achieving more accurate predictions of acoustic impedance for exploration.
Project VoLL-KI
Authors: Kohlhase Michael , Berges Marc , Grubert Jens , Henrich Andreas , Landes Dieter , Leidner Jochen L. , Mittag Florian , Nicklas Daniela , Schmid Ute , Sedlmaier Yvonne , Ulbrich-vom Ende Achim , Wolter Diedrich
Published: May 2024

“Learning from Learners” (“Von Lernenden Lernen”, “VoLL-KI ” for short) is a is collaborative research project with the goal of creating a practical toolbox of instruments at different levels of abstraction to improve the learning experience and outcomes for students of artificial intelligence.Learning and teaching at tertiary education institutions are currently IT-based but not AI-supported. The VoLL-KI project aims to go this crucial next step.Using AI approaches (e.g., ML, symbolic AI, statistical AI), several educational technologies are developed on the different granularity of the study programs (e.g., course, semester, program). So, dashboards for study planning, recommender systems improving student advisory services and learning material selection, VR-based learning experiences, educational chatbots, and adaptive learning environments are developed. The systems are mostly deployed as prototypes
GPT-4 in Education: Evaluating Aptness, Reliability, and Loss of Coherence in Solving Calculus Problems and Grading Submissions
Authors: Gandolfi Alberto
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we initially investigate the capabilities of GPT-3 5 and GPT-4 in solving college-level calculus problems, an essential segment of mathematics that remains under-explored so far. Although improving upon earlier versions, GPT-4 attains approximately 65% accuracy for standard problems and decreases to 20% for competition-like scenarios. Overall, the models prove to be unreliable due to common arithmetic errors.

Our primary contribution lies then in examining the use of ChatGPT for grading solutions to calculus exercises. Our objectives are to probe an in-context learning task with less emphasis over direct calculations; recognize positive applications of ChatGPT in educational contexts; highlight a potentially emerging facet of AI that could necessitate oversight; and introduce unconventional AI benchmarks, for which models like GPT are untrained. Pertaining to the latter, we uncover a tendency for loss of coherence in extended contexts. Our findings suggest that while the current ChatGPT exhibits comprehension of the grading task and often provides relevant outputs, the consistency of grading is marred by occasional loss of coherence and hallucinations. Intriguingly, GPT-4's overall scores, delivered in mere moments, align closely with human graders, although its detailed accuracy remains suboptimal.

This work suggests that, when appropriately orchestrated, collaboration between human graders and LLMs like GPT-4 might combine their unique strengths while mitigating their respective shortcomings In this direction, it is imperative to consider implementing transparency, fairness, and appropriate regulations in the near future.
Techno economic analysis of the production of potato powder applying potato starch purification system in Japan
Authors: Sato Nagohira , Shimizu Naoto , Nakajima Mitsutoshi
Published: May 2024

To implement the technology for producing potato powder, significant investment is required. This study evaluated the techno-economic feasibility of the dried potato powder production process, based on a scenario developed in a starch plant process in Japan. The simulation was performed with SuperPro Designer® software. The annual production volume and the unit production cost were estimated to be 15,786,585 kg and 1056 Japanese yen/kg, respectively. According to economic evaluation indicators—the gross margin, return on investment, payback time, internal rate of return, and net present value (at a 7% interest rate)—the scenario was profitable and investment worthwhile. A sensitivity analysis was conducted to evaluate the impact of the variable parameters (the purchasing price of raw potatoes, the selling price of potato powder, and labor and electricity costs) on the net present value (at the 7% interest rate). The analysis suggested that the purchasing price of raw potatoes and the selling price of potato powder had particularly large impacts on the net present value.
Assessment of climate change impact on inflows to Amandara headwork using HEC-HMS and ANNs
Authors: Hassaan Haider Ali , Rauf Ateeq Ur , Ghumman Abdul Razzaq , Khan Saba , Aamir Erum
Published: May 2024

This research has assessed the impact of climate change on temperature, precipitation, and inflows to the Amandara headwork in Pakistan. Trend Analysis using the Mann–Kendall test and Innovative Trend Analysis has been performed. Rainfall-runoff modeling is executed using the Hydrological Engineering Centre-Hydrological Modeling System (HEC-HMS) and Artificial Neural Networks including Feed Forward Neural Network, Conjugate Gradient, Two-layer Backpropagation Neural Network, and Broyden Fletcher-Goldfarb-Shanno. Mean daily hydro-meteorological data (1992 to 2023) was utilized for this study in which 70% was employed for calibration while the remaining 30% was used for validation of the model. Two GCMs namely CSIROMk3-6–0 and HadGEM2-ES with four Representative Concentration Pathways; RCP 2.6, 4.5, 6.0, and 8.5, were employed for future forecasting of temperature and precipitation. This future predicted data was then used to forecast flows up to 2050 by HEC-HMS. The performance of the models was assessed using correlation coefficient (R), Root Mean Square Error, Mean Bias Error, and Nash Sutcliffe Efficiency. Significant patterns in the runoff and temperature with no trend in precipitation were found. GCMs showed an increase in the range of 3–9 °C in temperature, 300 to 500 mm in precipitation, and 45 to 54% in peak flows.
Colonial Origins of Democracy and Dictatorship
Authors: Lee Alexander , Paine Jack
Published: May 2024

Why are some countries more democratic than others? For most non-European countries, elections began under Western colonial rule. However, existing research largely overlooks these democratic origins. Analyzing a global sample of colonies across four centuries, this book explains the emergence of colonial electoral institutions and their lasting impact. The degree of democracy in the metropole, the size of the white settler population, and pressure from non-Europeans all shaped the timing and form of colonial elections. White settlers and non-white middle classes educated in the colonizer's language usually gained early elections but settler minorities resisted subsequent franchise expansion. Authoritarian metropoles blocked elections entirely. Countries with lengthy exposure to competitive colonial institutions tended to consolidate democracies after independence. By contrast, countries with shorter electoral episodes usually shed democratic institutions and countries that were denied colonial elections consolidated stable dictatorships. Regime trajectories shaped by colonial rule persist to the present day.
The Legal Brain
Authors: Austin Debra S.
Published: May 2024

The Legal Brain is an essential guide for legal professionals seeking to understand the impact of chronic stress on their brain and mental health. Drawing on the latest neuroscience and psychology research, the book translates complex scientific concepts into actionable advice for legal professionals looking to enhance their well-being and thrive amidst the demands and stressors of the profession. Chapters cover optimizing cognitive fitness and performance, avoiding or healing cognitive damage, and protecting “the lawyer brain.” Whether you are a law student, practicing lawyer, judge, or leader of a legal organization, this book provides valuable insights and strategies for building resilience, maintaining peak performance, and protecting your most important asset - your brain.
Assessment of the characteristics of COVID-19 infection among healthcare personnel working in long-term care facilities
Authors: Mansoor Armaghan-e-Rehman , O’Neil Caroline A. , McDonald David , Fraser Victoria J. , Babcock Hilary M. , Kwon Jennie H. ,   for the CDC Prevention Epicenters Program
Published: May 2024

Between May and June 2021, healthcare personnel at two long-term care facilities underwent SARS-CoV-2 anti-nucleocapsid immunoglobulin G testing and completed a survey on COVID-19 exposures and symptoms. Antibody positivity rate was 8.9%. Similar rates of COVID-19 exposure occurred in non-occupational and occupational settings, with high self-reported adherence to workplace infection prevention practices.
The “Safe and Sustainable by Design” Concept – A Regulatory Approach for a More Sustainable Circular Economy in the European Union?
Authors: Reins Leonie , Wijns Julia
Published: May 2024

The creation of a more sustainable economy is one of the main targets of the European Green Deal and the new Circular Economy Action Plan. Technological innovation is needed, among other things, to render materials, products, and production processes more sustainable. Given the goals of the European Green Deal, the regulatory concept of “Safe and Sustainable by Design” is increasingly receiving attention. The concept is (arguably) a precautionary and preventative measure that is implemented at the early stages of the design of a technology. Therefore, it is often described as a tool for lowering the risks that follow from efforts to create a more circular economy. The concept was included in the European Chemicals Strategy of the European Commission. The aim of the strategy is to accelerate progress towards the discovery of more sustainable chemicals and towards a toxicity-free environment. In this paper, we will explore the benefits and disadvantages of integrating the “Safe and Sustainable by Design” concept into the regulation of technology. As a form of regulation by technology, this concept can enhance sustainability. We will first describe the origins of the concept and its current use. Then, we will analyse its implications for the circular economy.
Excising the ghosts of invasions past: restoring native vegetation to soil infested with invasive swallow-worts
Authors: Snyder Emmett H. U. , Jones Ian M. , Sifton Melanie A. , Timm Carla , Stevens Courtney , Bourchier Robert S. , Smith Sandy M.
Published: May 2024

Invasive plants can gain a foothold in new environments by manipulating soil conditions through allelopathy or through the disruption of associations between native plants and their mycorrhizal associates. The resulting changes in soil conditions can affect the recovery of habitats long after the invasive plant has been removed. We conducted a series of greenhouse experiments to examine the effects of soil conditioned by pale swallow-wort [Vincetoxicum rossicum (Kleopow) Barbarich; Apocynaceae], on the growth of native plants. Additionally, we tested the effects of aqueous extracts of common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca L.; Apocynaceae), a related plant with known allelopathic effects, on the regrowth of V. rossicum from transplanted root crowns. Soil from a 15-yr-old V. rossicum infestation reduced seedling emergence in A. syriaca as well as in V. rossicum itself. Conversely, the same soil had no effect on the growth of mature A. syriaca plants. Soil conditioned by V. rossicum growth in the greenhouse had no effect on the biomass and percentage cover generated by two restoration seed mixes. Soil conditioned by A. syriaca, however, yielded lower biomass and percentage cover from both seed mixes. In contrast to the allelopathic effects of A. syriaca on seedlings, aqueous extracts of A. syriaca increased aboveground plant growth in V. rossicum. Our results suggest that the effects of V. rossicum–conditioned soil on native plants are concentrated at the seedling establishment phase. Additionally, the use of diverse native seed mixes shows great potential for restoring productivity to ecosystems affected by V. rossicum.
Biology of Euwallacea interjectus, an emerging poplar pest, reared on an ambrosia beetle artificial diet and medium of fungal symbiont
Authors: Zheng Langlang , Lai Shengchang , Zhou Yang , Jiang Nan , Hao Dejun , Dai Lulu
Published: May 2024

Euwallacea interjectus, a recently discovered pest in poplar plantations, poses a significant economic threat due to its role in causing widespread tree mortality. This pest's cryptic behaviour has hindered research and control efforts, making laboratory rearing a valuable tool for studying its development and biology. We investigated the development period and biological characteristics of E. interjectus using artificial diets and fungal medium. Our findings revealed that the development time for eggs, larvae, and pupae averages approximately 6, 18, and 6 days, respectively. Notably, first and second instar larvae displayed peak moulting periods at 3.45 ± 0.64 SD and 7.92 ± 1.77 SD days, respectively. Furthermore, we measured head capsule widths of postmolt larvae, yielding values of 318.02 ± 7.38 SD μm for first-instar larvae, 403.01 ± 11.08 SD μm for second-instar larvae, and 549.54 ± 20.74 SD μm for third-instar larvae. Our research also uncovered a positive correlation between the number of progeny (eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults) and the mean length of the gallery system. Interestingly, the haplodiploid reproductive strategy did not significantly affect the number of offspring produced by the foundress. Additionally, we observed that foundresses displayed higher fecundity when subjected to nutrient-rich diets as compared to nutrient-poor diets. Our results will deepen our understanding of the biology of E. interjectus and provide criteria for larval instar classification. Additionally, managing nutrient availability within the colony could be considered a viable approach to regulating population size.