bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-additive effects of electrical stimulation of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and the vestibular system on muscle sympathetic nerve activity in humans
Authors: McCarthy Brendan , Datta Sudipta , Sesa-Ashton Gianni , Wong Rebecca , Henderson Luke A , Dawood Tye , Macefield Vaughan G
Published: June 2024

Sinusoidal galvanic vestibular stimulation (sGVS) induces robust modulation of muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) alongside perceptions of side-to-side movement, sometimes with an accompanying feeling of nausea. We recently showed that transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) also modulates MSNA, but does not generate any perceptions. Here, we tested the hypothesis that when the two stimuli are given concurrently, the modulation of MSNA would be additive. MSNA was recorded from 11 awake participants via a tungsten microelectrode inserted percutaneously into the right common peroneal nerve at the fibular head. Sinusoidal stimuli (± 2 mA, 0.08 Hz, 100 cycles) were applied in randomised order as follows: (i) tACS of the dlPFC at electroencephalogram (EEG) site F4 and referenced to the nasion; (ii) bilateral sGVS applied to the vestibular apparatuses via the mastoid processes; and (iii) tACS and sGVS together. Previously obtained data from 12 participants supplemented the data for stimulation protocols (i) and (ii). Cross-correlation analysis revealed that each stimulation protocol caused significant modulation of MSNA (modulation index (paired data): 35.2 ± 19.4% for sGVS; 27.8 ± 15.2% for tACS), but there were no additive effects when tACS and sGVS were delivered concurrently (32.1 ± 18.5%). This implies that the vestibulosympathetic reflexes are attenuated with concurrent dlPFC stimulation. These results suggest that the dlPFC is capable of blocking the processing of vestibular inputs through the brainstem and, hence, the generation of vestibulosympathetic reflexes.
Patent Foramen Ovale in Children: A Review of Recent Progress
Authors: Zhang Tingting , Gao Chao , Chen Wei , Ma Hui , Tao Ling
Published: June 2024

The support has been provided by clinical trials and guidelines for managing patent foramen ovale (PFO) in adults; however, the optimal approach is still unclear for treating PFO in pediatric patients. PFO and its associated clinical syndromes, imaging diagnosis, and management in pediatric patients were analyzed by a comprehensive analysis. Extensive research was performed using electronic databases, including PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, and EMBASE. This review includes the studies published until February 1st, 2024. A total of 583 articles were obtained, of which 54 were included in the comprehensive review. Numerous evidences have indicated that a right-to-left shunt through a PFO may be involved in cryptogenic stroke in children, although the connection between migraine and aura has not been substantiated by robust evidence. Children with sickle cell disease and a PFO were at higher risks of paradoxical embolization, rare syndromes caused by PFO could also occur in children such as platypnea–orthodeoxia syndrome, myocardial infarction, and decompression sickness. Contrast transthoracic echocardiography was deemed the most appropriate examination for children due to its favorable transthoracic windows, eliminating the need for anesthesia. This review suggested that the additional treatment was not needed as no evidence was provided for potential future complications linked to isolated PFO in children. For children facing unique circumstances related to PFO, a customized interdisciplinary consultation is essential prior to considering medical interventions.
Combat phytopathogenic bacteria employing Argirium-SUNCs: limits and perspectives
Authors: Orfei Benedetta , Moretti Chiaraluce , Scian Anna , Paglialunga Michela , Loreti Stefania , Tatulli Giuseppe , Scotti Luca , Aceto Antonio , Buonaurio Roberto
Published: June 2024

Bacterial plant diseases are difficult to control as the durability of deployed control measures is thwarted by continuous and rapid changing of bacterial populations. Although application of copper compounds to plants is the most widespread and inexpensive control measure, it is often partially efficacious for the frequent appearance of copper-resistant bacterial strains and it is raising concerns for the harmful effects of copper on environment and human health. Consequently, European Community included copper compounds in the list of substances candidates for substitution. Nanotechnologies and the application of nanoparticles seem to respond to the need to find new very effective and durable measures. We believe that Argirium-SUNCs®, silver ultra nanoclusters with an average size of 1.79 nm and characterized by rare oxidative states (Ag2+/3+), represent a valid candidate as a nano-bactericide in the control of plant bacterial diseases. Respect to the many silver nanoparticles described in the literature, Argirium-SUNCs have many strengths due to the reproducibility of the synthesis method, the purity and the stability of the preparation, the very strong (less than 1 ppm) antimicrobial, and anti-biofilm activities. In this mini-review, we provide information on this nanomaterial and on the possible application in agriculture.

Key points

• Argirium-SUNCs have strong antimicrobial activities against phytopathogenic bacteria.

• Argirium-SUNCs are a possible plant protection product.

• Argirium-SUNCs protect tomato plants against bacterial speck disease.

Graphical Abstract
Tamsulosin 0.8 mg daily dose in management of BPH patients with failed tamsulosin 0.4 mg monotherapy and unfit for surgical intervention
Authors: Dogha Mohamed Mahmoud , Shaker Hossam , Abdelazeez Assem , Abd-El Latif Ahmed , ElAdawy Mahmoud S.
Published: June 2024

Aim

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of administering double-dose tamsulosin (0.8 mg) for treating patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) who have not responded to the standard single dose of tamsulosin (0.4 mg) and are deemed unsuitable for transurethral resection (TUR) intervention.

Materials and methods

Between November 2022 and July 2023, we prospectively analyzed 111 patients who were experiencing severe BPH symptoms. These patients received a double dose of tamsulosin for one month. We collected baseline characteristics such as age, body mass index, and underlying medical conditions. Various parameters including the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, prostate volume, peak urinary flow rate (Qmax), voided volume, and post-void residual volume were evaluated before and after treatment.

Results

All 111 patients completed the study. The mean age, PSA level, and prostate volume were 63.12 ± 4.83 years, 3.42 ± 0.93 ng/ml, and 50.37 ± 19.23 ml, respectively. Of these patients, 93 showed improvement in Qmax, post-void residual volume, and IPSS score (p-value = 0.001). The total IPSS score and total Qmax improved from 24.03 ± 2.49 and 7.72 ± 1.64 ml/sec to 16.41 ± 3.84 and 12.08 ± 2.37 ml/sec, respectively.

Conclusion

Double-dose 0.8mg tamsulosin as an alpha-blocker therapy appears to be a viable temporary management option for BPH patients who have not responded to the standard single dose 0.4mg tamsulosin and are not suitable candidates for TUR intervention.
Shape/penetration analysis and comparisons of isolated spray plumes in a multi-hole Diesel spray
Authors: Mopuri Lokesh , Grahn Viljam , Sedarsky David , Hyvönen Jari
Published: June 2024

Fuel injection systems significantly impact the combustion process and play a key role in reducing harmful exhaust emissions in internal combustion engines. For dual-fuel (DF) engines operating in gas mode, ignition of the main fuel is typically controlled by directly injected liquid pilot fuel. Liquid pilot fuel’s initial penetration and total mass considerably impact exhaust emissions and combustion stability. We investigated the spray morphology of a multi-hole diesel fuel injector within a constant-volume spray chamber using high-speed shadowgraphy and Mie-scattering measurements. Two methodologies were employed. The first one utilized a nozzle equipped with a thimble structure to isolate a single plume. The second methodology known as plume-blocking, involved sealing the orifices of the multi-hole nozzle to generate a single-spray plume. Our findings revealed that the plume-blocking approach demonstrated greater penetration than the thimble-equipped nozzle. The rapid penetration of this method may restrict its applicability to single-spray studies. Sprays generated from this partially sealed nozzle exhibited noticeable disparities compared to an unblocked nozzle, whereas a nozzle equipped with a thimble produced similar outcomes to the standard nozzle. The orifices when sealed, modify the flow distribution within the sac volume, which consequently affects the spray characteristics. In summary, this research provides insights into the impacts of various plume isolation methods on spray morphology, thereby enhancing the understanding of spray behaviour in transient conditions by comparing plume variations and disturbances under various fuel pressure and ambient conditions.
Subseasonal relationship between the zonal oscillation of the Western Pacific Subtropical High and the South Asia High
Authors: Nie Jun , Fang Jiabei , Yang Xiu-Qun , Huang Qionghui
Published: June 2024

This study investigates relationship between the zonal oscillation of the western Pacific subtropical high (WPSH) and the South Asia High (SAH). As the WPSH extends westward, in upper-troposphere the SAH shows conspicuous eastward extension in 10–25-day period, while weak zonal movement in 25–50-day period. In 10–25-day period, the zonal oscillation of the SAH lags the movement of the WPSH by about one day. It is closely related with a westward moving anomalous high from the south of the Japan to the continent. Further analysis shows that the WPSH-related precipitation plays the significant role in the variation of this anomalous high. Accompanied with the westward extension of the WPSH, in lower-troposphere an anomalous anticyclonic circulation occupies the western Pacific. It enhances the moisture transportation to the east side of the SAH, causing above-normal precipitation here. With the enhancement of the precipitation, the anomalous diabatic heating induces divergence anomaly in upper-troposphere, and further stimulates anomalous high by the horizontal divergence effect, leading to the eastward extension of the SAH. In 25–50-day period, due to the weaker convective anomaly, the WPSH is unable to extend farther westward. As the result, less moisture is transported and the anomalous moisture convergence is restricted to the north of Yangtze River, and so is the precipitation. At the east side of the SAH it is dominated by the anomalous cooling, unfavorable for the stimulation of the anomalous high, and thus, the zonal oscillation of the SAH.
Effect of betulin oil on hair growth in hypothyroidism- a long-term blinded pilot study
Authors: Serrafi Agata , Gostyńska Karolina , Kasprzak Adrian , Wasilewski Andrzej , Marczyński Piotr , Kontek Sylwiusz , Lewandowski Wojciech
Published: June 2024

Background

One common problem in various patient groups is excessive hair loss on the head. One such group is people struggling with hypothyroidism. The market for preparations for hair growth and hair loss prevention includes betulin.

Purpose

This pilot study investigated its effect on hair loss in hypothyroid patients.

Study design

The study included a group of hypothyroid patients and a control group of people without hypothyroidism. Participants were randomly divided into a group taking placebo and betulin.

Methods

Results were investigated using photographic assessment of hair, trichoscopy and subjective evaluation of participants.

Conclusion

The study did not conclusively prove that betulin would contribute to the inhibition of hair loss or regrowth.

Graphical Abstract
Evaluation of fibromyalgia frequency and quality of life in Notalgia paresthetica patients
Authors: Sarı Nihal , Kulaklı Sevgi , Oğuz Işıl Deniz , Akşan Burak , Sarı İlker Fatih
Published: June 2024

Based on the presence of chronic pain and the potential use of common treatment agents in Notalgia Paresthetica (NP) and Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) for improvement, we aimed to investigate the frequency of FMS symptoms in NP patients and its impact on quality of life. This study is a case control cohort study including 26 patients diagnosed with NP and a total of 26 controls matched for age and gender. The 2016 revised fibromyalgia diagnostic criteria by the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) were used to inquire about FMS diagnosis criteria in the study. According to the 2016 ACR revised FMS diagnostic criteria, the frequency of FMS was significantly higher in the patient group (n = 9, 34.6%) compared to the control group (n = 2, 7.7%) (p = 0.042). The Wide Pain Index (WPI) score in the control group was 2.00 (3.25), while in the patient group, it was 4.00 (8.00), with a statistically significant difference between them (p < 0.035). Furthermore, significant statistical differences were found between the two groups in terms of Symptom Severity Scale (SSS), Fibromyalgia Score (FS), and FIQ (p < 0.035, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, respectively). In NP patients with accompanying FMS, Dermatology Life Quality Index was significantly more affected compared to those without FMS (p = 0.025). In conclusion, we recommend that NP patients be questioned about FMS, which is characterized by generalized pain, as well as regional neuropathic symptoms. Treatment success can be enhanced by using common agents in the treatment choice for accompanying FMS.
Status epilepticus in POLG disease: a large multinational study
Authors: Hikmat Omar , Naess Karin , Engvall Martin , Klingenberg Claus , Rasmussen Magnhild , Brodtkorb Eylert , Ostergaard Elsebet , de Coo Irenaeus , Pias-Peleteiro Leticia , Isohanni Pirjo , Uusimaa Johanna , Majamaa Kari , Kärppä Mikko , Ortigoza-Escobar Juan Dario , Tangeraas Trine , Berland Siren , Harrison Emma , Biggs Heather , Horvath Rita , Darin Niklas , Rahman Shamima , Bindoff Laurence A.
Published: June 2024

We aimed to provide a detailed phenotypic description of status epilepticus (SE) in a large cohort of patients with POLG disease and identify prognostic biomarkers to improve the management of this life-threatening condition. In a multinational, retrospective study with data on patients with POLG disease from seven European countries, we identified those who had SE. The age of SE onset, accompanying clinical, laboratory, imaging and genetic findings were analysed. One hundred and ninety-five patients with genetically confirmed POLG disease were recruited, of whom 67% (130/194) had epilepsy. SE was identified in 77% (97/126), with a median age of SE onset of 7 years. SE was the presenting symptom of the disease in 43% (40/93) of those with SE, while 57% (53/93) developed SE during the disease course. Convulsive SE was reported in 97% (91/94) followed by epilepsia partialis continua in 67% (56/84). Liver impairment 78% (74/95), ataxia 69% (60/87), stroke-like episodes 57% (50/88), were the major comorbidities. In the majority (66%; 57/86) with SE this became refractory or super-refractory. The presence of seizures was associated with significantly higher mortality compared to those without (P ≤ 0.001). The median time from SE debut to death was 5 months. SE is a major clinical feature of POLG disease in early and juvenile to adult-onset disease and can be the presenting feature or arise as part of a multisystem disease. It is associated with high morbidity and mortality, with the majority of patients with SE going on to develop refractory or super-refractory SE.
Noise or signal? Spontaneous activity of dorsal horn neurons: patterns and function in health and disease
Authors: Lucas-Romero Javier , Rivera-Arconada Ivan , Lopez-Garcia Jose Antonio
Published: June 2024

Spontaneous activity refers to the firing of action potentials by neurons in the absence of external stimulation. Initially considered an artifact or “noise” in the nervous system, it is now recognized as a potential feature of neural function. Spontaneous activity has been observed in various brain areas, in experimental preparations from different animal species, and in live animals and humans using non-invasive imaging techniques. In this review, we specifically focus on the spontaneous activity of dorsal horn neurons of the spinal cord. We use a historical perspective to set the basis for a novel classification of the different patterns of spontaneous activity exhibited by dorsal horn neurons. Then we examine the origins of this activity and propose a model circuit to explain how the activity is generated and transmitted to the dorsal horn. Finally, we discuss possible roles of this activity during development and during signal processing under physiological conditions and pain states. By analyzing recent studies on the spontaneous activity of dorsal horn neurons, we aim to shed light on its significance in sensory processing. Understanding the different patterns of activity, the origins of this activity, and the potential roles it may play, will contribute to our knowledge of sensory mechanisms, including pain, to facilitate the modeling of spinal circuits and hopefully to explore novel strategies for pain treatment.
The effect of typicality training on costly safety behavior generalization
Authors: Kesim Işık E. , Pittig Andre , Wong Alex H. K.
Published: June 2024

Background and objectives

Typicality asymmetry in generalization refers to enhanced fear generalization when trained with typical compared to atypical exemplars. Typical exemplars are highly representative of their category, whereas atypical exemplars are less representative. Individual risk factors, such as trait anxiety, attenuate this effect, due to the high level of threat ambiguity of atypical exemplars. Although recent research provided evidence for generalization of safety behavior, it is unclear whether this generalization also follows typicality asymmetry. This study examined (1) whether participants exhibited typicality asymmetry in the generalization of safety behavior and (2) whether this effect would be attenuated by individual risk factors, such as intolerance of uncertainty and trait anxiety.

Methods

Participants were trained with either typical (Typical group, n = 53) or atypical (Atypical group, n = 55) exemplars in a fear and avoidance conditioning procedure. Participants acquired differential conditioned fear and costly safety behavior to the threat- and safety-related exemplars. In a following Generalization Test, the degree of safety behavior to novel exemplars of the same categories was tested.

Results

The Atypical group showed greater differential safety behavior responses compared to the Typical group. Higher trait anxiety was associated with lower differential safety behavior generalization, driven by an increase in generalized responding to novel safety-related exemplars. Limitations: This study used hypothetical cost instead of real cost.

Conclusions

Training with atypical exemplars led to greater safety behavior generalization. Moreover, individuals with high trait anxiety show impaired safety behavior generalization.
Effect of loading rate and pH on glycerol fermentation and microbial population in an upflow anaerobic filter reactor
Authors: Cordeiro Cândida N. , Rojas Patricia , Veras Shyrlane T. S. , Kato Mario T. , Florencio Lourdinha , Sanz José Luis
Published: June 2024

A reactor with silicone tubes as support medium was used for glycerol fermentation. The experimental set-up consisted of three phases. In P1, the applied glycerol loading rate (gly-LR) was in the range of 6–10 g.L−1.d−1 at an influent pH of 7.9 ± 0.4. In P2, gly-LR was kept constant (18.0 ± 1.8 g.L−1.d−1) with different doses of NaHCO3. Finally in P3, two different gly-LR (9 and 18 g.L−1.d−1) were evaluated, dosing 1 g-NaHCO3 per g-COD of glycerol. Glycerol consumption was close 90%. The main end-product was 1,3-propanediol (1,3-PDO) (0.40 mol.mol-gly−1), but ethanol was also generated, particularly at pH above 8 and low gly-LR (0.20 mol.mol-gly−1). After 1-year operation with glycerol as the only carbon source, a drastic shift in the bacterial community was observed. The 1,3-PDO producers Lacrimispora and Clostridium became dominant, although non-glycerol-degrading fermentative genera, e.g., Actinomyces and Eubacterium, thrived at the expense of cellular breakdown products.

Graphical abstract
Multi-center study of use of the Exeter stem in Japan: a 10-year follow-up report
Authors: Sakurai Tatsuro , Fujita Hiroshi , Iwase Toshiki , Sasaki Kan , Katayama Naoyuki , Otsuka Hiromi
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Since the introduction of the Exeter stem for clinical use in Japan in 1996, the number of stems used has continued to rise owing to its favorable results. We investigated the outcomes of patients who had previously undergone total hip arthroplasty with the Exeter stem in Japan with a 10-year + follow-up period.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study used clinical and radiographic data of 682 cases of primary total hip arthroplasty performed using the Exeter stem.

Results

The mean postoperative follow-up period was 13.3 years. Femoral-side revision was required in 14 hips, with no cases of aseptic stem loosening-associated revision observed. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis predicted 97.3% 15-year survival when revision for any reason was used as the endpoint.

Conclusion

The obtained findings suggested the excellent long-term stability of the Exeter stem for primary total hip arthroplasty in Japan.
Intraoral scanner-based monitoring of tooth wear in young adults: 36-month results
Authors: Schlenz Maximiliane Amelie , Schlenz Moritz Benedikt , Wöstmann Bernd , Glatt Anna Sophia , Ganss Carolina
Published: June 2024

Objectives

The study continues our longitudinal observation of wear aiming to further monitoring of progression and lesion morphology and to identify relationships with assumed aetiological factors.

Materials and methods

Molars (FDI #36 or #46) of 74 participants (23.8 ± 2.2 years) were scanned (Trios 3, 3Shape) at the third follow-up (T3; observation period 1,111 ± 10 days). Data sets from T3, T2 (24-month follow-up) and T1 (12-month follow-up) were superimposed with baseline in a 3D analysis software (GOM Inspect). Wear was quantified as maximum vertical tissue loss (µm; median, 95% CI) in various occlusal areas (4/5 cusps and 2 ridges). Morphologies were classified into cupping (C), facet (F), and combined cupping-facet (CF). Aetiological factors were assessed with questionnaires.

Results

Wear increased at T3 significantly at low rates in all areas of the occlusal surface (median between 7.0 (4.0;10.5) and 9.5 (6.0;15.0) µm). There was a clear trend for higher loss values in males, but no association with other factors such as nutrition. C and CF showed significantly higher loss values than F. Areas without initial wear developed F first, which either persisted or developed into C and CF.

Conclusions

Wear continued at low rates with C/CF morphology and sex as significant factors. Cupped lesions seem to develop from facets and thus may not be a valid diagnostic criterion for erosive tooth wear.

Clinical relevance

Wear is a cumulative process that apparently follows complex mechanisms that cannot be conceptualized in simplified terms; C and CF may be indicators for higher progression rates.
Clinical implications for the association of psoriasis and multiple sclerosis: an observational study
Authors: Miele Giuseppina , Sparaco Maddalena , Maida Elisabetta , Bile Floriana , Lavorgna Luigi , Bonavita Simona , Ruocco Eleonora
Published: June 2024

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) and psoriasis (PsO) are distinct chronic autoimmune conditions with varying impacts on patients' lives. While the co-occurrence of MS and PsO has been reported, the underlying pathogenic link remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of PsO in a MS outpatient clinic population and explore the potential interplay between these conditions.

Methods

316 MS patients who had at least one visit at our MS center in the last year, were selected from our outpatient MS Clinic electronic database and were e-mailed in August 2023 and inquired about a previous diagnosis of PsO. Demographic and MS history data were retrospectively gathered for two groups: MS patients without and with PsO. Information about MS phenotype, Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score at the diagnosis and at last follow-up, disease modifying therapy (DMT) were collected retrospectively from our MS data set. PsO diagnosis was confirmed by an experienced dermatologist and severity was assessed with the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI).

Results

Among 253 respondents, 5.85% reported a PsO diagnosis that was confirmed after the dermatological evaluation Among patients with psoriasis 66.67% had progressive course of MS (p = 0.032) and the onset of PsO typically occurred after MS diagnosis. 9 out 15 patients had a PASI score of 0 and 6 are currently undergoing treatment with an anti-CD20 therapy. Notably, a subset of our patients were on anti-CD20 therapy and did not experience a worsening of dermatological symptoms.

Discussion and conclusion

The prevalence of PsO in our outpatient MS population aligns with previous studies. Treatment approaches should be tailored to individual patient needs, emphasizing collaboration between neurologists and dermatologists. Medications like dimethyl fumarate, effective in both conditions, could be considered. The data from our study also suggest that anti-CD20 therapy may be a viable option for some patients with concurrent MS and mild PsO, without a significant worsening of dermatological symptoms. Further research is needed to elucidate the complex relationship between MS and PsO and to develop more effective therapeutic strategies for patients with both conditions.
Large differences between observed and expected Ecuadorian deforestation from 2001 to 2009: a counterfactual simulation approach
Authors: Calvas Baltazar , Castro Luz Maria , Kindu Mengistie , Bingham Logan , Pintado Karla , Torres Celi Jonathan , Knoke Thomas , Cueva-Ortiz Jorge
Published: June 2024

Ensuring the integrity of the world’s forests is indispensable for mitigating climate change, combatting biodiversity loss, and protecting the livelihoods of rural communities. While many strategies have been developed to address deforestation across different geographic scales, measuring their impact against a fluctuating background of market-driven forest loss is notoriously challenging. In this article, we (1) asses deforestation in Ecuador using a dynamic, counterfactual baseline that excludes non-market factors, (2) identify periods of reduced and excess deforestation, and (3) assess the economic consequences of associated CO2 emissions using the social cost of carbon metric. We construct a counterfactual market-forces-only reference scenario by simulating heterogeneous profit-seeking agents making satisficing land-use allocation decisions under uncertainty. The model simulates a reference scenario for 2001–2022, a period encompassing dollarization, the beginning of a constitution granting inalienable rights to nature, and the launch of the largest payments for ecosystem services program in Ecuador’s history. On this period, total deforestation was approximately 20% lower than expected in a market-forces-only scenario (9540 vs.12,000 km2). The largest deviation occurred in 2001–2009, when observed deforestation was 43.6% lower than expected (3720 vs 6590 km2). From 2010 onwards, deforestation appears to be market-driven. We assess the economic value of avoided CO2 emissions at US $5.7 billion if the reduction is permanent, or US $3.1 billion considering a 1% risk of loss from 2022 onwards. We discuss contributing factors that likely shaped periods of reduced and excess deforestation and stress the need to use realistic baselines.
A catastrophe model approach for flood risk assessment of Italian municipalities
Authors: Perazzini Selene , Gnecco Giorgio , Pammolli Fabio
Published: June 2024

Italy is severely affected by floods, yet the government has still to develop a flood risk management strategy that is able to adequately protect the population from the huge financial, human and welfare losses they cause. In this respect, a major obstacle is the limited understanding of risk at the national level. To date, there are no analyses in the literature that estimate the flood losses for the whole Italian territory at the small area level. This is particularly due to the lack of uniformity in the collection of data by the river basin authorities, which are primarily responsible for collecting information on floods in the country. In this work, we combine different sources of flood data and propose a model for flood loss estimation that allows us to predict expected losses per square meter, per municipality, and per structural typology. We identify the areas that are critical to risk management either because of high inhabited density or because of the structural fragility of the assets. Flood expected losses are then compared with those generated by earthquakes, which constitute the natural hazard of main concern in Italy. We find that, in contrast with earthquakes, floods affect only some municipalities. Nevertheless, floods might generate losses per square meter even higher than earthquakes.
Prospective Effects of Self-Rated Health on Dementia Risk in Two Twin Studies of Aging
Authors: Pilgrim Matthew J. D. , Beam Christopher R. , Nygaard Marianne , Finkel Deborah
Published: June 2024

Subjective health ratings are associated with dementia risk such that those who rate their health more poorly have increased risk for dementia. The genetic and environmental mechanisms underlying this association are unclear, as prior research cannot rule out whether the association is due to genetic confounds. The current study addresses this gap in two samples of twins, one from Sweden (N = 548) and one from Denmark (N = 4,373). Using genetically-informed, bivariate regression models, we assessed whether additive genetic effects explained the association between subjective health and dementia risk as indexed by a latent variable proxy measure. Age at intake, sex, education, depressive symptomatology, and follow-up time between subjective health and dementia risk assessments were included as covariates. Results indicate that genetic variance and other sources of confounding accounted for the majority of the effect of subjective health ratings on dementia risk. After adjusting for genetic confounding and other covariates, a small correlation was observed between subjective health and latent dementia risk in the Danish sample (rE = − .09, p < .05). The results provide further support for the genetic association between subjective health and dementia risk, and also suggest that subjective ratings of health measures may be useful for predicting dementia risk.
Rheological study of hybrid aqueous suspension of TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanofibrils and graphene oxide
Authors: Malnarič Iris , Krajnc Matjaž , Šebenik Urška
Published: June 2024

The incorporation of graphene oxide (GO) into a nanocellulose matrix has attracted considerable attention due to the unique advantages of both components. This study focuses on investigating the viscoelastic and flow properties of hybrid aqueous suspensions (2.00 w/v%), composed of TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanofibrils (TOCNF) and GO at different TOCNF/GO weight ratios. To adjust the elastic properties of the hybrid suspensions, calcium ions are introduced, varying the concentration systematically to study their effects on the hybrid network structure. All blends exhibit shear-thinning behaviour and demonstrate elastic, gel-like properties. Notably, in the absence of calcium ions, the enhancement of elastic properties is more pronounced at higher GO fractions. Conversely, with the introduction of calcium ions, the enhancement of elastic properties becomes particularly important at higher TOCNF fractions. For the quantitative evaluation of these enhancements, we employ the logarithmic mixing rule. Significant positive deviations from the predictions of the logarithmic mixing rule are ascribed to the complex, concentration-dependent arrangement of cellulose nanofibrils and GO liquid crystals in the aqueous suspension, coupled with ionic crosslinking induced by calcium ions. The study aims to contribute to the understanding of the rheological behaviour of the TOCNF/GO hydrogel, showing potential advancements in various applications.

Graphical abstract
Deep learning adversarial attacks and defenses on license plate recognition system
Authors: Vizcarra Conrado , Alhamed Shadan , Algosaibi Abdulelah , Alnaeem Mohammed , Aldalbahi Adel , Aljaafari Nura , Sawalmeh Ahmad , Nazzal Mahmoud , Khreishah Abdallah , Alhumam Abdulaziz , Anan Muhammad
Published: June 2024

The breakthroughs in Machine learning and deep neural networks have revolutionized the handling of critical practical challenges, achieving state-of-the-art performance in various computer vision tasks. Notably, the application of deep neural networks in optical character recognition (OCR) has significantly enhanced the performance of OCR systems, making them a pivotal preprocessing component in text analysis pipelines for crucial applications such as license plate recognition (LPR) systems, where the efficiency of OCR is paramount. However, despite the advancements, the integration of deep neural networks in OCR introduces inherent security vulnerabilities, particularly susceptibility to adversarial examples. Adversarial examples in LPR systems are crafted by introducing perturbations to original license plate images, which can effectively compromise the integrity of the license plate recognition process, leading to erroneous license plate number identification. Given that the primary goal of OCR in this context is to accurately recognize license plate numbers, even a single misinterpreted character can significantly impact the overall performance of the LPR system. The vulnerability of LPR systems to adversarial attacks underscores the urgent need to address the security weaknesses inherited from deep neural networks. In response to these challenges, the exploration of alternative defense mechanisms, such as image denoising and in-painting, presents a compelling approach to bolstering the resilience of LPR systems against adversarial attacks. By prioritizing practical implementation and integration of image denoising and inpainting techniques align with the operational requirements of real-world LPR systems. These methods can be seamlessly integrated into existing pipelines, offering pragmatic and accessible means of enhancing security without imposing significant computational overhead. By embracing a multi-faceted approach that combines the strengths of traditional image processing techniques, the research endeavors to develop comprehensive and versatile defense strategies tailored to the specific vulnerabilities and requirements of LPR systems. This holistic approach aims to fortify LPR systems against adversarial threats, thereby fostering increased trust and reliability in the deployment of OCR and LPR technologies across various domains and applications.
An experimental study to assess resistance and resilience strategies of freshwater diatoms to cope with drying in Mediterranean temporary rivers
Authors: Quevedo-Ortiz Guillermo , Fernández-Calero José María , Cañedo-Argüelles Miguel , von Schiller Daniel , Fortuño Pau , Bonada Núria , Gomà Joan
Published: June 2024

Temporary rivers are aquatic ecosystems that alternate periods of water flow with dry periods. Diatoms are a group of unicellular microalgae with a high colonizing ability, but little is known about their responses to drying. We carried out different resistance and resilience experiments to evaluate temporal and spatial dispersal capacity of diatoms during the dry period. The resistance was tested experimentally by rehydrating dried biofilms and sediments from temporary rivers, whereas resilience was tested by installing artificial mesocosms along a dry river section. Disconnected pools were also sampled to evaluate their propagule emission capacity. In turn, dogs from the area were sampled to test potential zoochory dispersal capacity. In the resistance experiment, we found living diatoms in all the rehydrated sediments but not in biofilms. Diatoms with mobility traits, high ecological plasticity, and resistance spores presented high, along with typical soil diatoms. In the resilience experiment, all mesocosms hosted living diatoms, which were low-profile, pioneering, and small species. Diatoms found in the mesocosms were also common in the disconnected pools, underscoring the potential role of the latter as a propagule emission zone. Dogs' paws also had living diatoms, which evidences that wild fauna could potentially act as passive diatom vectors.
Stone Archive of World War I Victims: The Case of the Monument from Ruszów (Poland) and Various Aspects of Community Archaeology
Authors: Konczewski Paweł , Orlicki Łukasz , Daczkowski Andrzej , Mielczarek Gracjan , Konczewski Piotr , Majer Anna , Witkowski Bartosz , Biel Radosław
Published: June 2024

This article presents the discovery in Ruszów (German: Rauscha, today in Poland) of 103 stone epitaphs from a demolished monument commemorating the inhabitants of this village – German soldiers who died during World War I. After World War II, Poland received part of Germany’s territory in exchange for lands lost to the Soviet Union. Forced deportations followed the change of borders. Polish displaced persons in the new territories found a foreign cultural heritage, which they often treated as hostile – due to the vivid memories of the German occupation. In such circumstances, the monument in Ruszów was destroyed. The village inhabitants remembered this and decided to change it by initiating community archaeology to research the monument’s relics. The universal right to remember the dead, which, in their opinion was violated in the act of destroying the monument, was the motivation for their actions. It prompted the scientists helping them to reflect on the various aspects of community archaeology.
The forest policy outputs of regional regimes: a qualitative comparative analysis on the effects of formalization, hegemony and issue-focus around the globe
Authors: Sarker Pradip Kumar , Giessen Lukas , Göhrs Max , Jeon Sohui , Nago Minette , Polo-Villanueva Fredy David , Burns Sarah Lilian
Published: June 2024

International regimes, defined as sets of norms and rules around which members’ expectations converge, are providing structures for facilitating cooperation in a given issue area. Two main lines of environmental regime scholarship prevailed thus far: one on structural design aspects of international institutions and one on their effects and effectiveness. However, questions on how such effects are achieved in detail largely remain unanswered. Against this background, this study aims to analyze the institutional design conditions under which regional regimes produce strong or weak policies. We do so by qualitatively comparing, using a fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA), nine regional regimes across the world towards their ability of producing regime forest policies as an illustrative issue area. Three structural conditions were identified as being influential on regime policy: (i) The degree of formalization (ii) The existence of hegemonic/powerful member state(s) and (iii) Scope or issue specificity bearing the identity of a regime. Our results showed that no one condition on its own was necessary to produce either strong or weak regime forest policy. However, all three conditions, through three different configurations, created a robust pathway for producing strong regime policy. In addition, the combination that showed the presence of all three conditions was related to weak regime policy. These results open several prospects for future research on the relationship between regimes´ structures and regime policy.
Adult Childrens’ College Completion Timing and Their Aging Mothers’ Self-Rated Health: The Role of Mothers’ Educational Attainment
Authors: Zhang Xing , Hammersmith Anna M. , Iida Masumi , Infurna Frank
Published: June 2024

The transition to adulthood has become delayed, with college completion often diverging by socioeconomic background, specifically maternal education. On time, late, or never completing college can have health ramifications that reverberate into the lives of aging mothers. Using dyadic data from Waves I, III, IV, and V of Add Health and Waves I and II of Add Health Parent Study, we used logistic regression to assess whether the adult childrens’ college timing completion was associated with their aging mothers’ self-rated health. We also considered variation by mothers’ educational attainment. Results showed adult childrens’ college completion, whether on time or late, was associated with better maternal self-rated health relative to having adult children who did not complete college. We found no evidence that college completion timing and mothers’ self-rated health varied by mothers’ educational attainment.
Pillar Mothers: Perspective on the Adaptation Process of Mothers of Autistic Children
Authors: Périard-Larivée Delphine , Godbout Élisabeth , Bégin Jean-Yves , St-Laurent Diane , de Serres-Lafontaine Amélie , De Pauw Sarah , Bussières Eve-Line
Published: June 2024

Mothers of autistic children encounter numerous daily challenges that can affect their adaptation. While many studies have documented the impact on mothers of having an autistic child and factors contributing to their adaptation and their experiences of motherhood, few have examined how mothers of autistic children perceive their overall adaptation. We investigated with a qualitative design how mothers of autistic children perceive stressors, facilitators (resources, coping strategies, and contexts), and outcomes of adaptation in various life domains. Participants included 17 mothers of autistic children ranging from 2 to 8 years old. Mothers participated in a phone interview about their perception of their successes, challenges, and adaptation as mothers of their children. A thematic analysis was conducted on interview transcripts using inductive and deductive coding. A cross-case analysis was subsequently used to identify themes and subthemes. Results highlight the complexity of the maternal adaptation process in the context of autism, which starts before the child’s diagnosis. Stressors, facilitators, and outcomes were described as overlapping in the psychological, social, professional, marital, and parental life domains. The accumulation of stressors was identified as mothers of autistic children’s main source of stress and almost impossible to reduce. Participants explained having difficulties accessing effective facilitators. While outcomes of adaptation vary across mothers and life domains, indicators of distress were identified for all participants. Implications are discussed regarding how service providers and society could better support mothers of autistic children by considering their complex reality and by providing more resources and information.
Limited Evidence of Shared Decision Making for Prostate Cancer Screening in Audio-Recorded Primary Care Visits Among Black Men and their Healthcare Providers
Authors: Stevens Elizabeth R. , Thomas Jerry , Martinez-Lopez Natalia , Fagerlin Angela , Ciprut Shannon , Shedlin Michele , Gold Heather T. , Li Huilin , Davis J. Kelly , Campagna Ada , Bhat Sandeep , Warren Rueben , Ubel Peter , Ravenell Joseph E. , Makarov Danil V.
Published: June 2024

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA)-based prostate cancer screening is a preference-sensitive decision for which experts recommend a shared decision making (SDM) approach. This study aimed to examine PSA screening SDM in primary care. Methods included qualitative analysis of audio-recorded patient-provider interactions supplemented by quantitative description. Participants included 5 clinic providers and 13 patients who were: (1) 40–69 years old, (2) Black, (3) male, and (4) attending clinic for routine primary care. Main measures were SDM element themes and “observing patient involvement in decision making” (OPTION) scoring. Some discussions addressed advantages, disadvantages, and/or scientific uncertainty of screening, however, few patients received all SDM elements. Nearly all providers recommended screening, however, only 3 patients were directly asked about screening preferences. Few patients were asked about prostate cancer knowledge (2), urological symptoms (3), or family history (6). Most providers discussed disadvantages (80%) and advantages (80%) of PSA screening. Average OPTION score was 25/100 (range 0–67) per provider. Our study found limited SDM during PSA screening consultations. The counseling that did take place utilized components of SDM but inconsistently and incompletely. We must improve SDM for PSA screening for diverse patient populations to promote health equity. This study highlights the need to improve SDM for PSA screening.
Is a larger patient benefit always better in healthcare priority setting?
Authors: Sandman Lars , Liliemark Jan , Gustavsson Erik , Henriksson Martin
Published: June 2024

When considering the introduction of a new intervention in a budget constrained healthcare system, priority setting based on fair principles is fundamental. In many jurisdictions, a multi-criteria approach with several different considerations is employed, including severity and cost-effectiveness. Such multi-criteria approaches raise questions about how to balance different considerations against each other, and how to understand the logical or normative relations between them. For example, some jurisdictions make explicit reference to a large patient benefit as such a consideration. However, since patient benefit is part of a cost-effectiveness assessment it is not clear how to balance considerations of greater patient benefit against considerations of severity and cost-effectiveness. The aim of this paper is to explore the role of a large patient benefit as an independent criterion for priority setting in a healthcare system also considering severity and cost-effectiveness. By taking the opportunity cost of new interventions (i.e., the health forgone in patients already receiving treatment) into account, we argue that patient benefit has a complex relationship to priority setting. More specifically, it cannot be reasonably concluded that large patient benefits should be given priority if severity, cost-effectiveness, and opportunity costs are held constant. Since we cannot find general support for taking patient benefit into account as an independent criterion from any of the most discussed theories about distributive justice: utilitarianism, prioritarianism, telic egalitarianism and sufficientarianism, it is reasonable to avoid doing so. Hence, given the complexity of the role of patient benefit, we conclude that in priority practice, a large patient benefit should not be considered as an independent criterion, on top of considerations of severity and cost-effectiveness.