bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zeolite Synthesis in the Presence of Metallosiloxanes for the Quantitative Encapsulation of Metal Species for the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) of NOx
Authors: Khairova Rushana , Komaty Sarah , Dikhtiarenko Alla , Cerrillo Jose Luis , Veeranmaril Sudheesh Kumar , Telalović Selvedin , Tapia Antonio Aguilar , Hazemann Jean‐Louis , Ruiz‐Martinez Javier , Gascon Jorge
Published: August 2023

Metal encapsulation in zeolitic materials through one‐pot hydrothermal synthesis (HTS) is an attractive technique to prepare zeolites with a high metal dispersion. Due to its simplicity and the excellent catalytic performance observed for several catalytic systems, this method has gained a great deal of attention over the last few years. While most studies apply synthetic methods involving different organic ligands to stabilize the metal under synthesis conditions, here we report the use of metallosiloxanes as an alternative metal precursor. Metallosiloxanes can be synthesized from simple and cost‐affordable chemicals and, when used in combination with zeolite building blocks under standard synthesis conditions, lead to quantitative metal loading and high dispersion. Thanks to the structural analogy of siloxane with TEOS, the synthesis gel stabilizes by forming siloxane bridges that prevent metal precipitation and clustering. When focusing on Fe‐encapsulation, we demonstrate that Fe‐MFI zeolites obtained by this method exhibit high catalytic activity in the NH3‐mediated selective catalytic reduction (SCR) of NOx along with a good H2O/SO2 tolerance. This synthetic approach opens a new synthetic route for the encapsulation of transition metals within zeolite structures.
Self‐quenched Fluorophore Dimers for DNA‐PAINT and STED Microscopy
Authors: Kessler Laurell F. , Balakrishnan Ashwin , Deußner‐Helfmann Nina S. , Li Yunqing , Mantel Maximilian , Glogger Marius , Barth Hans‐Dieter , Dietz Marina S. , Heilemann Mike
Published: August 2023

Super‐resolution techniques like single‐molecule localisation microscopy (SMLM) and stimulated emission depletion (STED) microscopy have been extended by the use of non‐covalent, weak affinity‐based transient labelling systems. DNA‐based hybrid systems are a prominent example among these transient labelling systems, offering excellent opportunities for multi‐target fluorescence imaging. However, these techniques suffer from higher background relative to covalently bound fluorophores, originating from unbound fluorophore‐labelled single‐stranded oligonucleotides. Here, we introduce short‐distance self‐quenching in fluorophore dimers as an efficient mechanism to reduce background fluorescence signal, while at the same time increasing the photon budget in the bound state by almost 2‐fold. We characterise the optical and thermodynamic properties of fluorophore‐dimer single‐stranded DNA, and show super‐resolution imaging applications with STED and SMLM with increased spatial resolution and reduced background.
Total Synthesis of (−)‐Batrachotoxin Enabled by a Pd/Ag‐Promoted Suzuki–Miyaura Coupling Reaction
Authors: Watanabe Yuuki , Morozumi Hisahiro , Mutoh Hiroyuki , Hagiwara Koichi , Inoue Masayuki
Published: August 2023

Batrachotoxin is an extremely potent cardio‐ and neurotoxic steroidal alkaloid found in certain species of frogs, birds, and beetles. The steroidal 6/6/6/5‐membered carbocycle (ABCD‐ring) is U‐shaped and functionalized with two double bonds, a six‐membered C3‐hemiacetal across the AB‐ring, a seven‐membered oxazepane on the CD‐ring, and a dimethylpyrrolecarboxy group at the D‐ring carbon chain. These structural features present an unusual and formidable synthetic challenge. Herein we report a total synthesis of batrachotoxin based on a newly devised convergent strategy through a 22‐step sequence. Enantiopure AB‐ring and D‐ring fragments were prepared and subjected to a crucial C(sp2)−C(sp2) coupling reaction. Although both C(sp2) centers were sterically encumbered by proximal tetrasubstituted carbon atoms, Ag2O strongly promoted the Pd(PPh3)4‐catalyzed Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reaction at room temperature, thereby connecting the two fragments without damaging their preexisting functionalities. Subsequent treatment with t‐BuOK induced Dieckmann condensation to cyclize the C‐ring. The judiciously optimized functionalizations realized oxazepane formation, carbon chain extension, and pyrrole carboxylic acid condensation to deliver batrachotoxin.
A Fluorescent Probe for Investigating the Role of Biothiols in Signaling Pathways Associated with Cerebral Ischemia‐Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Yang Yutao , Ma Ming , Shen Lei , An Jusung , Kim Eunji , Liu Hongmei , Jin Ming , Wang Shuxiang , Zhang Jinchao , Kim Jong Seung , Yin Caixia
Published: August 2023

Cerebral ischemia‐reperfusion injury (CIRI) is intimately associated with the redox regulation of biothiol, a crucial antioxidant marker that precludes the onset of ROS. We designed a novel fluorescent probe, DCI‐Ac‐Py, showing various physicochemical properties, such as high selectivity, exceptional signal‐to‐noise ratio, near‐infrared (NIR) optical window, and blood–brain barrier (BBB) penetrability, for detecting biothiols in the brain. The picolinate serves as a specific recognition group that is rapidly activated by biothiol and undergoes nucleophilic substitution with the adjacent acrylic ester to yield the desired NIR probe. Additionally, the probe's lipid solubility is improved through the inclusion of halogen atoms, which aids in penetrating the BBB. Using DCI‐Ac‐Py, we investigated changes of biothiols in vivo in the brains of mice during CIRI. We found that biothiol‐mediated NF‐kB classical (P65‐related) and nonclassical (RelB‐related) pathways contribute to abundant ROS production induced by CIRI and that biothiols are involved in redox regulation. These findings provide new insights into the study of CIRI and shed light on the physiological and pathological mechanisms of biothiols in the brain.
Synthesis, Molecular Packing and Semiconductor Properties of V‐Shaped N‐Heteroacene Dimers
Authors: Xiong Yongming , Gong Qi , Miao Qian
Published: August 2023

This article presents two groups of V‐shaped π‐scaffolds that consist of two N‐heteroacene units fused with either a rigid or flexible eight‐membered ring. These rigid and flexible N‐heteroacene dimers were synthesized through the condensation of tetraphenylenetetraone with the corresponding diamine and the Pd‐catalyzed cross‐coupling of tetrabromodibenzo[a,e]cyclooctatetraene with the corresponding diamine, respectively. A comparison of electronic structures and properties of the two groups of V‐shaped N‐heteroacene dimers shows subtle difference between the rigid and flexible eight‐membered ring linkers in forming extended π‐systems. X‐ray crystallography of these V‐shaped molecules has revealed interesting π‐π interaction modes, which are dependent on the central connecting units and substituting groups. These π‐π interactions between the V‐shaped π‐scaffolds have enabled the molecules to function as organic semiconductors in solution‐processed field effect transistors.
Further examination of behavior during extinction‐based treatment of pediatric food refusal
Authors: Engler Christopher W. , Ibañez Vivian F. , Peterson Kathryn M. , Andersen Ashley S.
Published: August 2023

Researchers have demonstrated the effectiveness of extinction‐based treatments to reduce challenging behavior. Although bursts and temporary increases in emotional responding may occur in some basic and applied studies, recent studies on their prevalence have shown that side effects are far from ubiquitous. Woods and Borrero (2019) determined that bursts of inappropriate mealtime behavior and increases in emotional responding occurred in 30% of data sets during extinction‐based treatment of pediatric feeding difficulties. In the current study, we conducted a retrospective consecutive‐controlled case series by evaluating treatment graphs of inappropriate mealtime behavior, negative vocalizations, active acceptance, and mouth clean for 60 children admitted to an intensive day‐treatment feeding disorders program. We discuss the implications of these findings and provide general recommendations for the use of extinction‐based treatment.
Magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnosis of progressive supranuclear palsy: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Alphonce Baraka , Komanya Francisca , Bitesigilwe Mbelwa , Meda John R. , Nyundo Azan
Published: August 2023

Key Clinical Message

Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) has many clinical features overlapping with other Parkinson syndromes and differentiation on clinical ground is difficult. This case highlights how a brain MRI can help diagnose PSP in settings with limited resources where histological diagnosis is difficult.

Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) may be challenging to diagnose due to its widely acknowledged clinical complexity and challenges with diagnosis confirmation, particularly in resource‐poor settings where the ability to obtain confirmatory tests is highly complicated, leading to an inaccurate or incomplete diagnosis of PSP. This paper discusses using brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to diagnose PSP, and a review of relevant literature addresses the diagnostic value of MRI in PSP.
The Catalytic Function of Phosphorus Enriched on the Surface of Vanadium‐based Catalysts in Selective Oxidations
Authors: Rüther Frederik , Baumgarten Robert , Gioria Esteban , Knemeyer Kristian , Xie Jingxiu , Kraehnert Ralph , Naumann d'Alnoncourt Raoul , Thomas Arne , Rosowski Frank
Published: August 2023

Vanadium phosphates are established as the benchmark system for the selective oxidation of n‐butane towards maleic anhydride. By varying the phosphorus content on the surface of three V‐based catalysts with diverse performance, this study experimentally elaborates on the catalytic function of phosphorus. Contact time variation and cofeed studies revealed, that surface phosphates, deposited in sub‐monolayers via atomic layer deposition, significantly contribute to an increased product selectivity. Furthermore, our results suggest that the phosphorus particularly suppresses the consecutive combustion of the (re‐)adsorbed product. The recently introduced solid solution catalyst V1‐xNbxOPO4 with medium maleic anhydride selectivity could be tuned by the surface enrichment with phosphorus towards product selectivities of up to SMAN=60 %, under optimized alkane‐rich feed conditions. Therefore, POx‐V0.3Nb0.7OPO4 is introduced as promising catalyst, which is not based on vanadyl(IV) pyrophosphate, to access significantly higher MAN formation rates at increased alkane partial pressures of cn‐butane>10 %vol in n‐butane oxidation.
Multiply exo‐Methylated Corannulenes
Authors: Miwa Kazuhira , Aoyagi Shinobu , Amaya Toru , Sasamori Takahiro , Morisako Shogo , Kurogi Takashi , Yorimitsu Hideki
Published: August 2023

Invited for the cover of this issue are Shinobu Aoyagi (Nagoya City University), Takahiro Sasamori (University of Tsukuba), and Hideki Yorimitsu (Kyoto University). The image depicts multiply exo‐methylated corannulenes (flowers) synthesized from corannulene (central large flower) by the reduction with sodium (soil) to form anionic corannulenes and the subsequent methylation with reduction‐resistant dimethyl sulfate (butterflies). Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202301557.
Reconstruction of the Late Miocene to Pliocene continental succession of Samos Island: Palaeoenvironmental implications for the Eastern Aegean domain
Authors: Hamon Youri , Deschamps Rémy , Gorini Christian , Sakellariou Dimitris , Bailly Cédric , Kernif Tarik , Christ Alina Bérénice , Adelinet Mathilde , Fortin Jérôme
Published: August 2023

On the Island of Samos (East Aegean region, Greece), two sedimentary basins are filled by thick continental series dated to the Late Miocene to Early Pliocene. A multidisciplinary study has been performed including (1) the definition of 21 sedimentary facies, (2) a review of the biological components and (3) carbon, oxygen and strontium stable isotope analyses. The succession is characterised by various depositional settings and hydrochemical compositions. Five main stages of basin evolution have been identified: (1) The Late Serravallian is marked by the development of alluvial fans and fan delta; (2) during the Lower Tortonian, isolated shallow lakes with variable salinity, from fresh to brackish, developed under warm and relatively humid conditions; (3) the Middle to Upper Tortonian is marked by the development of a large and deep lake with saline and alkaline waters, under colder and drier conditions; (4) the Latest Tortonian to Messinian period is represented by an ephemeral alluvial system, developed under a dry climate; (5) during the Zanclean, a palustrine and paludal wetland system, dominated by tufa carbonates, developed under moderately humid conditions. This succession is of particular interest for the reconstruction of the palaeoenvironmental evolution of the transition zone between the Mediterranean domain, and the Paratethys and circum‐Paratethys areas. The geochemical data and the presence of flora (diatoms) and fauna (gastropods) of marine affinity suggest transient ingressions of marine‐related water or groundwater inflows as early as the Lower Tortonian. The Samos succession records the complex interaction between the regional geodynamics and climate. The extensional regime of the Eastern Aegean zone generates subsidence, interrupted in the mid‐Tortonian (9 Ma) by a brief compressive event and a major exposure of the basins. Furthermore, the Late Miocene progressive aridification, followed by a change to a more humid climate (Pliocene) is also a major driver of the sedimentation.
A tandem of GC‐MS and electroanalysis for a rapid chemical profiling of bacterial extracellular matrix
Authors: Silina Y. E. , Zolotukhina E. V. , Koch M. , Fink‐Straube C.
Published: August 2023

Herein an assay toward a rapid and reliable profiling of extracellular matrix of Escherichia coli (E. coli) utilizing a tandem of GC‐MS as a tool for definition of the exact chemical nature of low molecular weight compounds and cyclic voltammetry for their high throughput detection is presented.

Briefly, during a set of investigations the formation of glycerol in the extracellular matrix (ECM) of E. coli at physiological relevant conditions of cells was revealed. Based on the obtained knowledge, the electrochemical protocol allowing both qualitative and quantitative analyses of glycerol in E. coli ECMs at palladium ink‐modified screen printed electrodes with precision values (RSD) <10 % and recovery rates ranged from 98 % to 102 % was proposed.

The provided protocol for a rapid electrochemical profiling of the bacterial ECMs can readily be used as a guideline for the controlled electroanalysis of target electroactive signaling analytes in complex biological samples.
Laser interstitial thermal therapy in pediatric cerebellar epilepsy
Authors: Bicciato Giulio , Gennari Antonio Giulio , Oertel Markus Florian , Dünner Corinne , Krayenbühl Niklaus , Boltshauser Eugen , Toelle Sandra P. , Ramantani Georgia
Published: August 2023

Cerebellar lesional epilepsy is rare, commonly manifesting in early life and posing diagnostic and treatment challenges. Seizure semiology may be subtle, with repetitive eye blinking, face twitching, and irregular breathing, while EEG commonly remains unremarkable. Pharmacoresistance is the rule, and surgical intervention is the only treatment with the potential for cure. Novel minimally invasive techniques, such as laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT), are emerging for surgically less accessible, deep‐seated epileptogenic lesions. We report the case of a patient who presented with peculiar eye and face movements occurring episodically and stereotypically since the first weeks of life and was later diagnosed with cerebellar epilepsy related to a hamartoma. Refractory daily seizures, unresponsive to antiseizure medication, were followed by increasingly prominent gait ataxia and delayed speech development. Staged LITT was performed in two consecutive sessions at 3 and 4 years, leading to seizure cessation, neurological improvement, and developmental gains over a postsurgical follow‐up period of 8 months. Our case highlights cerebellar lesional epilepsy as a rare but important differential diagnosis in children with paroxysmal disorders predominantly involving the face. Furthermore, we illustrate the radiological correlates of neurocognitive deficit related to the cerebellar lesion, manifesting as cerebello‐cerebral diaschisis. Most importantly, our observations showcase LITT as a safe and effective therapeutic approach in cerebellar lesional epilepsy and an attractive alternative to open brain surgery, especially for deep‐seated lesions in the pediatric population.
Rooted minors and locally spanning subgraphs
Authors: Böhme Thomas , Harant Jochen , Kriesell Matthias , Mohr Samuel , Schmidt Jens M.
Published: August 2023

Results on the existence of various types of spanning subgraphs of graphs are milestones in structural graph theory and have been diversified in several directions. In the present paper, we consider “local” versions of such statements. In 1966, for instance, D. W. Barnette proved that a 3‐connected planar graph contains a spanning tree of maximum degree at most 3. A local translation of this statement is that if is a planar graph, is a subset of specified vertices of such that cannot be separated in by removing two or fewer vertices of , then has a tree of maximum degree at most 3 containing all vertices of . Our results constitute a general machinery for strengthening statements about ‐connected graphs (for ) to locally spanning versions, that is, subgraphs containing a set of a (not necessarily planar) graph in which only has high connectedness. Given a graph and , we say is a minor of rooted at , if is a minor of such that each bag of contains at most one vertex of and is a subset of the union of all bags. We show that has a highly connected minor rooted at if cannot be separated in by removing a few vertices of . Combining these investigations and the theory of Tutte paths in the planar case yields locally spanning versions of six well‐known results about degree‐bounded trees, Hamiltonian paths and cycles, and 2‐connected subgraphs of graphs.
Impaired systemic nucleocapsid antigen clearance in severe COVID‐19
Authors: Bauer Christian , Mack Elisabeth , Hefter Véronique , Fischer Alexandra , Volland Kirsten , Skevaki Chrysanthi , Neubauer Andreas , Gress Thomas , Becker Stephan , Keller Christian
Published: August 2023

The circulating nucleocapsid (NCP) antigen of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) is detectable in coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19) patients. To better understand the biology of disease severity, we investigated NCP clearance kinetics in hospitalized COVID‐19 patients. Serum NCP was quantified using a commercial NCP‐specific enzyme‐linked immunoassay in hospitalized COVID‐19 patients (n = 63) during their hospital stay. Results were correlated to COVID‐19 disease severity, inflammation parameters, antibody response, and results of SARS‐CoV‐2 PCR from nasopharyngeal swabs. We demonstrate that NCP antigen levels in serum remained elevated in 21/45 (46.7%) samples from patients in intensive care units (ICU) after >8 days postdiagnosis. The proportion of ICU patients with detectable antigenemia declined only gradually from 84.6% to 25.0% over several weeks. This was in contrast to complete NCP clearance in all non‐ICU patients after 8 days, and also in contrast to mucosal clearance of the virus as measured by PCR. Antigen clearance was associated with higher IgG against S1 but not NCP. Clearance of NCP antigenemia is delayed in >40% of severely ill COVID‐19 patients. Thus, NCP antigenemia detected after 8 days post COVID‐19 diagnosis is a characteristic of patients requiring intensive care. Prospective trials should further investigate NCP antigen clearance kinetics as a mechanistic biomarker.
Partial substitution of wheat flour with soybean and gluten powder: impact on flavor characteristics of Pixian Douban‐Meju and its quality
Authors: Zhao Jie , Li Ling , Zhao Jianhua , Dong Shirong , Liu Gefei , Wang Yin , Xu Zedong , Lin Hongbin , Lu Jing , Liu Ping , Xu Min
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

In this study, different proportions of soybean flour and gluten flour were used as partial replacements for wheat flour for the fermentation of Pixian Douban‐Meju (PXDB). The aim was to study the effects of soybean flour/gluten flour on the quality improvement of PXDB.

RESULTS

In comparison with the control group (CT) (0% substitution of wheat flour), substitution of wheat flower with 12.5% soybean flour (the H2 group), 7.5% gluten flour (G2), and 10% gluten flour (G3) improved the amino acid nitrogen content by 3.8%, 5.6%, and 9.4% respectively. The mixtures of wheat flour and gluten flour (G2 or G3) increased the organic acid and free amino acid content. The results of two‐dimensional gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC × GC–MS) showed that the amount of key aroma substances increased about sixfold in comparison with the CT group (194.61 g.kg−1), achieving 1283.67, 1113.883, and 1160.19 g.kg−1 in the H2, G2, and G3 groups, respectively. There were also more aldehydes and pyrazines in all the substitution groups. Quantitative descriptive analysis indicated that the G3 sample presented the best organoleptic quality with a reddish‐brown color and a more mellow aroma than the control sample.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the fermentation of G3 resulted in higher quality PXDB‐meju, showing that partial substitution of wheat flour with gluten improved the quality of PXDB. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Frequency agility of dielectric resonator using top‐loaded rotatable anisotropic metasurface
Authors: Ke Yan‐Hui , Zhang Jie‐Er , Zhang Qinfang , Yang Wen‐Wen , Shi Xu , Chen Jian‐Xin
Published: August 2023

Dielectric resonators (DRs) are widely investigated and applied due to the high Q‐factor feature. Their frequency agility is desperately needed in modern communication systems. In this letter, we propose a novel tuning method for DRs using top‐loaded rotatable anisotropic metasurface, instead of the traditional mechanical tuning structures or electrical switches. The effective permittivity of the anisotropic metasurface varies with the E‐field direction of the incident wave. We can tune the resonate frequency by rotating the metasurface placed on the top of the DR. To demonstrate the feasibility of this method, a tunable DR with the anisotropic metasurface printed on a thin substrate is designed, fabricated, and measured. With a compact profile, the prototype provides a wide tuning range of 8.4% from 4.80 to 5.22 GHz and a Q‐factor higher than 1098. The good tuning performance makes the proposed method highly potential for tunable filters and frequency‐reconfigurable antennas.
Metachronous bilateral immunoglobulin G4‐related pleuritis: A case report and literature review
Authors: Tanabe Keitaro , Homma Takahiro , Matsui Shoko , Tsuchiya Tomoshi , Saji Hisashi
Published: August 2023

Immunoglobulin G4‐related disease (IgG4‐RD) is a newly recognized disease, and therefore its clinical features are not yet fully understood. Here, we describe a surgical case of metachronous bilateral IgG4‐related pleuritis and postoperative chylothorax. This case could provide key insights into the pathology of IgG4‐RD from a surgical perspective. We present a 70‐year‐old woman who had a right pleural mass. Video‐assisted thoracoscopic pleural mass resection was performed, and the patient was diagnosed with right‐sided IgG4‐related pleuritis. Two years later, she was also diagnosed with left‐sided IgG4‐related pleuritis. We suspected the presence of IgG4‐positive plasma cell infiltration. Additionally, she experienced a complicated postoperative chylothorax on the left side. It is important to consider the altered course of lymphatic vessels when extensively removing the pleura near the right thoracic duct. The occurrence of metachronous bilateral IgG4‐associated pleuritis has not been previously reported, making this case particularly significant for understanding the pathology of IgG4‐RD from a surgical standpoint.
UV irradiance effects on komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis) vitamin D3, egg production, and behavior: A case study
Authors: Wood Michelle N. , Soltis Joseph , Sullivan Kathleen E. , Probst Tom
Published: August 2023

Modifications to UV irradiance for indoor housed herpetofauna can affect behavior and physiology. Low ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiance can result in vitamin D3 deficiency resulting in calcium metabolism disorders including metabolic bone disease and immune suppression. High UVB can result in skin and eye issues, which can be severe enough to cause shock and death. Using tools available for the assessment of UV light, including Ferguson zones and the UV working tool designed by the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquaria, we redesigned lighting in our indoor komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis) habitat to better suit the UV requirements of this species, while studying changes in behavior and physiology. We measured serum vitamin 25‐hydroxy D3 values in one male and one female komodo dragon before and after they were housed in indoor and outdoor habitats. We also measured behavior changes in our male komodo as he moved from an outdoor habitat, to an indoor habitat with changing UV irradiance. Our female komodo showed a 98% increase in vitamin D3 values after being moved outdoors, and laid her first clutch of eggs. Our male dragon's vitamin D3 remained consistent 200 days after moving inside. He did show increased activity when higher UV irradiance was available. Importantly, we found the UV lamps we used stopped producing desired UV irradiance within 3.5 months of regular use. We suggest all animal care facilities develop UV monitoring programs to research output and longevity of UVB lamps used in indoor herpetofauna habitats.
Privacy Research on the Pulse of Time: COVID-19 Contact-Tracing Apps
Authors: Gerlitz Eva , Häring Maximilian
Published: August 2023

In 2020, COVID-19 hit the World, and with it came the desire for a well-functioning and fast-working possibility to trace contacts of those people who tested positive for the virus, a method called contact tracing. Depending on how automated tracing is implemented, it is necessary to capture and store sensitive information about the user, such as where the user has been, who they were in contact with, and their health status. All of this entails the potential of mission creep and surveillance. In this chapter, we give a brief outline of the tracing technologies and their implications for the users’ data and, therefore, privacy. We look at scientific studies with end users and how their privacy concerns impacted their decision to install a contact tracing app. After reading this chapter, the reader will have an overview of the general privacy discussion and research on contact tracing apps in the context of COVID-19 and hints on where to find further information.
Achieving Usable Security and Privacy Through Human-Centered Design
Authors: Groen Eduard C. , Feth Denis , Polst Svenja , Tolsdorf Jan , Wiefling Stephan , Iacono Luigi Lo , Schmitt Hartmut
Published: August 2023

Users should always play a central role in the development of (software) solutions. The human-centered design (HCD) process in the ISO 9241-210 standard proposes a procedure for systematically involving users. However, due to its abstraction level, the HCD process provides little guidance for how it should be implemented in practice. In this chapter, we propose three concrete practical methods that enable the reader to develop usable security and privacy (USP) solutions using the HCD process. This chapter equips the reader with the procedural knowledge and recommendations to: (1) derive mental models with regard to security and privacy, (2) analyze USP needs and privacy-related requirements, and (3) collect user characteristics on privacy and structure them by user group profiles and into privacy personas. Together, these approaches help to design measures for a user-friendly implementation of security and privacy measures based on a firm understanding of the key stakeholders.
Elements of Generalized Linear Mixed Models
Authors: Salinas Ruíz Josafhat , Montesinos López Osval Antonio , Hernández Ramírez Gabriela , Crossa Hiriart Jose
Published: August 2023

Linear models are commonly used to describe and analyze datasets from different research areas, such as biological, agricultural, social, and so on. A linear model aims to best represent/describe the nature of a dataset. A model is usually made up of factors or a series of factors that can be nominal or discrete variables (sex, year, etc.) or continuous variables (age, height, etc.), which have an effect on the observed data. Linear models are the most commonly used statistical models for estimating and predicting a response based on a set of observations.
Objectives of Inference for Stochastic Models
Authors: Salinas Ruíz Josafhat , Montesinos López Osval Antonio , Hernández Ramírez Gabriela , Crossa Hiriart Jose
Published: August 2023

Throughout this book, we have been using the pseudonym GLMMs to denote generalized linear mixed models. The common denominator among all these models is that they all contain a linear model (LM) part, which refers to the fixed effects component of the linear predictor Xβ. In a GLMM, the prefix “G” indicates that the distribution of observations may not be normal, the suffix of the first M means that the linear predictor includes mixed effects and thus contains random effects, which are expressed by the term “Zb.” The fixed linear component of the predictor Xβ is important because the fixed effects describe the treatment design, which, in turn, is determined by the objectives or the initial research questions that the study wishes to answer. Therefore, if the researcher proposes using a reasonable model to analyze an experiment, then he/she must be able to express each objective as a question about a model parameter or as a linear combination of model parameters.
Energy Poverty and Just Transformation in Greece
Authors: Fragkos Panagiotis , Kanellou Eleni , Konstantopoulos George , Nikas Alexandros , Fragkiadakis Kostas , Filipidou Faidra , Fotiou Theofano , Doukas Haris
Published: August 2023

Low-income population groups often face high energy poverty risks. This phenomenon can be exacerbated through the implementation of ambitious environmental policies to achieve the energy transition—said policies, such as the application of additional taxes on energy products, may lead to regressive social and distributional impacts on low-income households thus increasing the risk of energy poverty. This study focusses on Greece and combines a qualitative analysis of the EU and Greek policy context and strategic framework for energy poverty as well as related poverty alleviation measures with a state-of-the-art model-based assessment of the equity and distributional impacts of the net-zero transition in the country. We use the GEM-E3-FIT general equilibrium model, expanded to represent ten income classes differentiated by income sources, saving rates and consumption patterns. The new modelling capabilities of GEM-E3-FIT are applied to quantify the distributional impacts of ambitious emission reduction targets and at the same time explore their effects on energy-related expenditure and energy poverty by income class in Greece. The country’s transition to climate neutrality increases modestly the income inequality across income classes, with low-income households facing the most negative effects. However, using carbon tax revenues as lump-sum transfers to support household income and as reduced social security contributions have the potential to boost employment and scale down income inequality in Greece.
Energy Poverty and Health Pathologies: An Empirical Study on the French Case
Authors: Charlier Dorothée , Legendre Bérangère
Published: August 2023

We highlight the causal effect of energy poverty on health in France. After collecting original data from 5000 individuals, we first statistically study the correlations between different pathologies and different aspects of energy poverty. Then, using econometric models, we quantify the causal effect of energy poverty on physical health and mental health scores, and also on the risk of occurrence of certain pathologies. Our data show a significant difference in health status between energy-poor individuals and energy-sufficient individuals. Results confirm that falling into energy poverty significantly degrades health scores. Being in energy poverty reduces the World Health Organization’s (WHO) physical health score by 8.14 points. The negative and significant effect on the mental health indicator is 3.78 points. When individuals are in a situation of energy poverty, their self-assessed health scores are on average 3.37 points lower than individuals who are not energy insecure. In addition, individuals living in dwellings with poor roof insulation, humidity, or mold suffer more frequently from chronic disease or psychological distress. Finally, it appears that reducing energy poverty by 1% would save about EUR 476 million. Regarding mental disorders, this could rise to EUR 10.6 million.
Assessing Ecobonus as Energy Poverty Mitigation Policy: Is Energy Efficiency for All?
Authors: Martini C.
Published: August 2023

The access to energy services could still represent a relevant problem in developed countries: an EU-wide survey concluded that in 2020, 8% of the EU population said that they were unable to keep their home adequately warm.

When talking about energy poverty, its definition is a crucial element, also for its linkage with policy strategies. At EU level, a unique definition does not exist and the European Energy Poverty Observatory provides several consensual and expenditure-based direct indicators, as well as indirect ones. In Italy, the National Energy Strategy in 2017 has introduced a Low Income-High Cost measure, which has been employed also in the National Energy and Climate Plan.

Several policies to mitigate energy poverty exist in Italy: some have social nature, such as electricity and gas bonuses, and other could provide a structural solution by means of energy efficiency investments, as the Ecobonus incentive scheme. The effectiveness of a well-consolidated energy efficiency policy in mitigating energy poverty is assessed, at the same time investigating its distributional implications. The access to this mechanism is analysed at regional level and for different intervention areas, in order to identify the potential existence of a regressive pattern.
Similarity solutions of a Blasius flow with variable fluid properties and viscous dissipation
Authors: Kromer Christian , Schwitzke Corina , Bauer Hans-Jörg
Published: August 2023

An analytical model of the Blasius flow is studied including temperature-dependent fluid properties and viscous dissipation. The friction coefficient and Nusselt number at the wall are calculated from the resulting dimensionless velocity and temperature fields. The variable properties model is compared to a constant properties model to verify if and under which conditions this simplification is valid. Air, water and oil are analyzed as fluids over a representative operating regime, respectively. For air, the variable properties do not influence the friction coefficient and the Nusselt number. For water, the influence of the variable properties is present for both parameters but limited since no large temperature difference can occur in water without a phase change. New correlations for the friction coefficient and Nusselt number were derived for water and oil over a large range of operating conditions. Viscous dissipation does not significantly affect these parameters for air and water because of their relatively low Prandtl numbers. The high Prandtl number of oil in combination with a viscosity that is strongly decreasing with increasing temperature, leads to a more complex behavior. The friction coefficient as well as the Nusselt number are strongly dependent on the fluid properties. Dissipation effects cannot be neglected above an Eckert number of around 0.01. The superposition principle to evaluate wall heat flux in experiments is based on the assumption of constant fluid properties. It can be used without restrictions for air but should be thoroughly checked for all other fluids, especially liquids, using the presented methodology.
The general nutrition practices of competitive powerlifters vary by competitive calibre and sex, weight, and age class
Authors: King Andrew , Kwan Kedric , Jukic Ivan , Zinn Caryn , Helms Eric
Published: August 2023

Purpose

To characterise self-reported nutrition practices and beliefs of powerlifters.

Methods

Actively competing male (n = 240) and female (n = 65) powerlifters completed a cross-sectional online survey of self-reported nutrition practices across the competitive cycle, within specific competitive phases, and hard and easy training days. Data are presented as number (n) and percentage (%) of all powerlifters practicing a given strategy followed by a % of responses reporting various practices or beliefs within this strategy. Differences in categorical sub-groups (sex, age, and weight class; and competitive calibre) were analysed with a chi-square test and denoted where significant (p ≤ 0.05).

Results

Most powerlifters reported following a specific diet long-term (n = 203, 66.6%) of which If It Fits Your Macros (IIFYM)/flexible dieting was most common (n = 159, 78.3%). Over half reported introducing a special diet for a competitive phase (n = 162, 53.1%), of which IIFYM/flexible dieting was most followed for competition preparation (n = 80, 63%) and off-season (n = 48, 71.6%). Compared to normal dietary intake, most reported eating more on harder training days (n = 219, 71.8%) and refraining from eating less on easier training days (n = 186, 61%).

Conclusions

IIFYM/flexible dieting is commonly followed by powerlifters to support performance and body composition goals. Females seemed to report more often restricting energy and dieting for body composition reasons than males. Powerlifters tailor their energy intake on harder training days to the higher training demands but refrain from reducing energy intake on rest/easier training days.
Long-term voice evaluation after arytenoid adduction surgery in patients with unilateral vocal fold paralysis
Authors: Watanabe Kenichi , Hirano Ai , Kobayashi Yuta , Sato Takeshi , Honkura Yohei , Katori Yukio
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Laryngeal framework surgery, including medialization laryngoplasty and arytenoid adduction (AA), is expected to have a lasting or permanent effect in patients with unilateral vocal fold paralysis (UVFP); however, there are few reports about the long-term outcomes of AA. This study aimed to evaluate the long-term postoperative effects of AA surgery and examine its stability and reliability.

Methods

This study collected the voice handicap index (VHI) questionnaire from patients with UVFP who underwent AA more than 2 years previously. The VHI values preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively (early postoperative evaluation) were retrospectively calculated, and VHI values more than 2 years after surgery (late postoperative evaluation) were collected by mailing a sheet to the patients and asking to fill and return it. Possible influenced subscales such as age, sex, causes of UVFP, affected side, and surgeons were also analyzed.

Results

A total of 77 patients with UVFP who underwent AA had significantly lower early and late postoperative evaluations than preoperative evaluations. In 38 patients with no missing values, there were no significant differences between early and late postoperative evaluations, measured at a median of approximately 5 years. There were also no significant differences between early and late postoperative evaluations in any of the subscale groups.

Conclusion

Patients with UVFP who underwent AA surgery achieved stable voice improvement in the long term after surgery.
Relation of the work ability index to fitness for work in healthcare and public employees in a region of Northeastern Italy
Authors: Ronchese Federico , Ricci Francesca , Peccolo Giulia , Persechino Benedetta , Rondinone Bruna Maria , Buresti Giuliana , Negro Corrado , Bovenzi Massimo , Miani Andrea
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Work ability indicates an individual’s capacity to match job demands according to his/her physical and mental conditions and work circumstances. Occupational physicians should take into consideration the global health status of a worker in order to correctly assess if he/she is fit for the job. The aim of this study was to verify the association between fitness for work evaluation and Work Ability Index scores, as well as individual factors (age, gender, and anthropometric characteristics) and work-related variables (job type, years of working duration).

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted within the occupational health surveillance of health and public employers in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region (2018–2022). The participants voluntarily agreed to answer the standard Work Ability Index questionnaire. Data were investigated by univariable as well as multivariable regression analysis.

Results

The Work Ability Index of the workers included in the study (N = 6893) resulted negatively associated with age, female sex, and body mass index. It was averagely lower in nurses and assistive personnel, and the highest in medical doctors and public employers. The fitness for work assessments was also statistically related to WAI scores. The results obtained from the univariable and the multivariable analysis were consistent.

Conclusions

The Work Ability Index is an efficient tool to measure an individual’s capability to sustain job demands, and can be taken into account to produce a correct fitness for work evaluation and consequently preserve workers’ health status.
Contraceptive methods and fertility testing in young adult survivors of childhood cancer
Authors: Cherven Brooke , Quast Lauren F. , Klosky James L. , Gerhardt Cynthia A. , Baust Katja , Calaminus Gabriele , Kaatsch Peter , Hagedoorn Mariët , Tuinman Marrit A. , Lehmann Vicky
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Reproductive health is important, but often neglected in cancer survivorship care. This study explored contraceptive use and factors associated with fertility testing among young adult survivors of childhood cancer in Germany.

Methods

Young adult survivors of childhood cancer were identified through the German Childhood Cancer Registry and completed a mailed survey. Survivors were queried regarding contraceptive use, reproductive goals, uncertainty about fertility, and completion or interest in fertility testing. Multivariable stepwise logistic regression models were used to calculate Odds Ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) as a means of identifying factors associated with completion of and interest in fertility testing.

Results

Survivors (N = 472; 57.8% female; aged 23.3 ± 1.5 years, and 14.9 ± 5.0 years from diagnosis), reported high rates of contraceptive use, including 61.2% using a single method, 30.6% dual methods, and 8.1% no/less effective methods. Few survivors had completed fertility testing (13.0%), although 58.8% were interested. Having been diagnosed during adolescence (OR = 2.66, 95%CI: 1.39–5.09), greater uncertainty about fertility (OR = 1.16, 95%CI: 1.03–1.31), and use of dual contraceptive methods (OR = 1.94, 95%CI: 1.02–3.69) were associated with having completed fertility testing. Factors associated with interest in fertility testing included goals of wanting to have children (OR = 7.76, 95%CI: 3.01–20.04) and greater uncertainty about fertility (OR = 1.19 95%CI: 1.06–1.33).

Conclusion

In this sample of young adults who survived childhood cancer, most reported contraceptive use. Few survivors had completed fertility testing, although more than half were interested. Interventions are needed to address potential barriers to fertility testing and help survivors manage fertility-related uncertainty.
Cyclic Hypersequent System for Transitive Closure Logic
Authors: Das Anupam , Girlando Marianna
Published: August 2023

We propose a cut-free cyclic system for transitive closure logic (TCL) based on a form ofhypersequents, suitable for automated reasoning via proof search. We show that previously proposed sequent systems are cut-free incomplete for basic validities from Kleene Algebra (KA) and propositional dynamic logic ($$\text {PDL}$$PDL), over standard translations. On the other hand, our system faithfully simulates known cyclic systems for KA and$$\text {PDL}$$PDL, thereby inheriting their completeness results. A peculiarity of our system is its richer correctness criterion, exhibiting ‘alternating traces’ and necessitating a more intricate soundness argument than for traditional cyclic proofs.
Finite Element Discretizations for Variable-Order Fractional Diffusion Problems
Authors: Lei Wenyu , Turkiyyah George , Knio Omar
Published: August 2023

We present a finite element discretization scheme for multidimensional fractional diffusion problems with spatially varying diffusivity and fractional order. We consider the symmetric integral form of these nonlocal equations defined on general geometries and in arbitrary bounded domains. A number of challenges are encountered when discretizing these equations. The first comes from the heterogeneous kernel singularity in the fractional integral operator. The second comes from the formally dense discrete operator with its quadratic growth in memory footprint and arithmetic operations. An additional challenge comes from the need to handle volume conditions—the generalization of classical local boundary conditions to the nonlocal setting. Satisfying these conditions requires that the effect of the whole domain, including both the interior and exterior regions, be computed on every interior point in the discretization. Performed directly, this would result in quadratic complexity. In order to address these challenges, we propose a strategy that decomposes the stiffness matrix into three components. The first is a sparse matrix that handles the singular near-field separately, and is computed by adapting singular quadrature techniques available for the homogeneous case to the case of spatially variable order. The second component handles the remaining smooth part of the near-field as well as the far-field, and is approximated by a hierarchical $${\mathcal {H}}^2$$

H

2

matrix that maintains linear complexity in storage and operations. The third component handles the effect of the global mesh at every node, and is written as a weighted mass matrix whose density is computed by a fast-multipole type method. The resulting algorithm has therefore overall linear space and time complexity. Analysis of the consistency of the stiffness matrix is provided and numerical experiments are conducted to illustrate the convergence and performance of the proposed algorithm.
Religion, Spirituality, and Health Revisited: Bringing Mainline Western Protestant Perspectives Back into the Discourse—Theology’s “Seat at the Table”
Authors: Béres András
Published: August 2023

Theological perspectives have been given short shrift in the literature on religion and health research. This study demonstrates how including different schools of mainline Western Protestant theological thought (evolutionist, correlationist, and dialectical) in the scientific process could contribute to clarifying controversies. The issue is not just theoretical: Theology can even challenge assumptions on elicitability and reproducibility. Theology perceives spirituality as a dialogue with the Total Other, thus making each encounter with the transcendent (not just the individuality of the person) unique and unpredictable. By accepting setbacks on a journey with wide-ranging aspirations, theology redefines health as the momentum of constant striving toward the divine spirit. Since these theological insights relate to interventions that affect patients’ intimacy, attempting to recognize the (albeit implicit) spiritual–theological standpoint of the patient and the self—and how these relate to authentic traditions of spirituality—appears to be an essential prerequisite for ethical spiritual intervention.